Brooklyn Fit Chick

What Did We Learn This Month? @SELFmagazine May issue

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month? SELF, May 2011

 SELF magazine: May 2011

 

 

  

SELF Cover Star for May: 

Gwyneth Paltrow, who called her grandmother the “C” word on Chelsea Lately the other night which makes me like the both of them (actress and TV host) just that much more.

 

Gwyneth has been making the rounds with the media promoting her new book My Father’s Daughter: Delicious, Easy Recipes Celebrating Life, Family & Togetherness (did she get paid by the word?)

 

SELF gets Gwyneth to offer readers a glimpse of her book (including recipes that I plan to try out myself,) her workout schedule (90 minutes most days of the week) and her controversial Blog GOOP.com. (I’ll admit I get it just to make fun of the content—so sue me!)

 

Here is a picture of Gwyneth looking casual and gorgeous as always from the pages of her article in SELF:

 

 
  

 

What else is there to say? She’s perfect. Her life is perfect. And she could give a shit what the rest of us think. Moving on…

 

  

So What Else is in the May SELF?

  

"Healthy Beauty Awards 2011"

Round-ups like this are pure catnip for me because I loves me some beauty and here we get the results on make-up, skin and hair care from over 2200 readers who tested “a year’s worth a products.”  Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

"Give Road Biking a Spin"

SELF is ratcheting it up even further for me by offering a very helpful cycling story that encourages “spinners” to turn into “bikers.”

 

  

 

 

 

“Drop 10: Quick Slimming”

SELF’s fabulous fitness director, Meaghan B. Murphy, has a new challenge for those who wish to finally drop those last ten pounds and here we get 6 exercises that are to be done as “Tabata intervals” or “20-second bursts with 10-second rests, eight times.” Trying these out on my own right away!

 

 

 

 

 

“Do You Have a Killer Career?”

Having a high pressure career? A boss who will hassle you even on the weekends? A commute that would try the patience of Gandhi? Well guess what? It can also KILL you. Read this article to help gain some perspective. Very important.

 

 

 

 

“Water World”

As we head into the warmer months, drinking water and keeping well-hydrated will be more important than ever. Believe it or not—this is a four-page article about water and it is actually interesting. Check it out.

 

 
 

 

 

The Rest of the Best of the May SELF:

• "Running While Pregnant” Writer Sasha Brown-Worsham discussed her love of running and how she kept up her usual runs right until she was about to give birth (essentially.) I have women taking my spin classes right up to their 9^th month so this does not shock me. Cool article and inspiring to fellow jocks.     
• "Wheel Winners" Technically and extension of the story about biking from before but this page has gear that gives me the “I wants.”
•  "Tropical Storm” After a bout with dehydration last summer; I became a coconut water convert. Here we get a fair analysis of some of the not-so-realistic claims that people give the stuff. I will continue to use during all of my classes.
• "Hand Signals" SELF came up with a story that had me at “hello.” It’s all about hands and different “hand-y” things like nails, fingers, palms and such and what is says about your health. Cool!
•  "Fresh Air & Fun!" Ideas for unbelievably fun vacations where you can run, swim, and kayak to your heart’s content. Can I get my brain to finally acknowledge that winter is over?

  

Overall Grade: 

B+! 

SELF is always a great read and beautiful to look at. Once again—I felt the workout pages lacking in number but not in quality.

 

You can check out SELF online here:self.com.

 

See you in June SELF!

 

Ox ox,

BFC

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow me on Twitter: BrooklynFitChik (be sure to note the spelling!)

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month? @WomensHealthMag May Issue

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 Women’s Health: May 2011

 

 

  

  

Women’s Health Cover Star for May: 

Julianne Hough whom I think I remember from Dancing With the Stars and is now a country singer and is apparently dating Ryan Seacrest from American Idol fame. She is totally adorable certainly has an enviable dancer’s figure.

 

But she did have an issue with the press (tabloids) for a while when she gained a little weight after leaving Dancing With the Stars and had the nerve to eat a little and enjoy life. So now the disciplined 22 year-old keeps in shape with a combination of workout DVDs or running around amphitheaters before a gig.

 

Here is a photo of the lovely Julianne from inside the magazine.

 

 
 

 

So what else is in the May issue of Women’s Health? 

    

“The Best You for You”

A fun “cheat sheet” of a story that discusses all the different types of yoga classes offered and whether any of them would suit your own unique exercise needs.

 

 
 

  

  
"Amazing Body Makeovers"

Women’s Health sought four readers to help them get into the best shape of their lives. Below check out the fierceness that is Sherise Campbell from Dumfries, Virginia.

 

 

 

 

 

“Life Skills: Sorry Excuses”

Writer Mary Elizabeth Williams talks about the stress of forgiving or possibly not forgiving a friend or family member who betrays you.

 

 

 

 

“Yes, You Can Be a Triathlete”

One of my dreams this year is to participate on my first triathlon. This is giving me oodles of inspiration to do so.

 

 

 
 
 

And now the rest of the best of this issue of Women’s Health:

• "Secrets of a Top Skin Doctor" Contributing editor of Women’s Health, Franceca Fusco, M.D. is an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and here she offers her tips for gorgeous skin.
• "Shop Your Shape" The best bathing suits that will best flatter your figure.
• "Fast Track to a Fit Body" Part of the secret to raising your fitness level and endurance is dealing with the pain and general “uncomfortableness” of working out at a high intensity. Here we get some ideas on how to do just that.
• "Your Body on Cigarettes" I quit on June 27, 2002 and you should too. Here Women’s Health shows you what exactly happens to your body while you are smoking. By the way, if you smoke—you should quit.  
• "The Health Benefits of Sex" The lover in your life (should you be lucky enough to have one) will be thrilled after you read this article.
• “The Look of a Winner” Really cute workout clothes and outfits to keep you in the mood to get to the gym.
• “Slim Body/Fat Wallet” Women’s Health food editors offer up some delicious looking recipes that will are healthy and will not break the back. Win/win people!

 

Overall Grade: 

B+  A great read this month but I was hoping for a few more workout pages to rip out and try on my own. Maybe next month?    

 

You can check out Women’s Health online as well: link here.

 

See you in June Women’s Health!

 

Ox ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month? @FitnessMagazine May Issue

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

 Fitness magazine: May 2011

 

 

  

 

What’s happening in the May issue of Fitness? 

 

Fitness Cover Star for May: 

 

Singer Colbie Caillat who at 25 years-old has achieved more success than most people twice her age. I want to hate her but she sounds so nice and down-to-earth that I find myself routing for her new record, All of You to succeed. Go Colbie!

 

Writer Patty Adams tells us that Colbie began her health & fitness regime (running and circuit trainer) after being encouraged by her fit boyfriend (who also happens to play lead guitar in her band!) She got ready for her Fitness cover by doing a “ton more sit-ups” which certainly shows!

 

 

 

Here we get a taste of Colbie’s workout developed by her trainer Kanan Kroll.

 

 
 

 

 

So what else is in the May Fitness?

   

"The Active Beauty Guide" 

I happen to be a huge fan of beauty products and yet I often sweat like a sow after a workout. This story is perfect for me!

 

 

 

 

 

 
“Ready, Set, Sleeveless!”

Trainer Suzanne Bowen, creator of BarreArmed Fitness Method, offers some of best exercises to get you ready for the bare arm season. I think the “dip kick” looks pretty damn cool!

 

 

 

 

“So Long, Sarong”

Reader Amanda Nettboy took up an offer by Fitness to take a year to get into the best shape of her life and finally get to wear cute bathing suits when she visits her family in Florida.

 

The now-Manhattanite (who spoke to writer Samantha Shelton) gained weight after deciding that beaches and vegetables were verboten in her life but with the help of Fitness experts plus regular appearances on Better TV got her back in bikini-babe shape. Check her out here!

 

 

 

 

 

“You—Only Fitter”

Loved this! A story devoted to finding out how healthy you are currently plus tips for taking your fitness to the next level. What is YOUR recovery heart rate? How about your level of upper-body strength? See how you rate with this article.

 

 

 

 

"Pay Fitness Forward"

This is the feature that will make you go “aw!” Really exceptional women who use their fitness chops to help others.

 

Below we have Chantelle Wallace of Austin, Texas who walks/runs with dogs that are staying at the Town Lake Animal Center in her native Austin. How cute is that pup?

 

 

 

 

"Beach Body Boot Camp"

Need more ideas for exercises to get you beach body? Check out these moves that utilize bands.

 

 

 

 

 

“Comeback Queen”

Jennifer Schulbe of Tuscaloosa, Alabama at one time was an avid runner who used the heavy cardio to relieve and keep mentally sane. At the age of 34 she received a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis which meant her central nervous system would be compromised causing fatigue and numbness.

 

Instead of giving up—she took up cycling instead and now competes internationally. Jennifer’s advice to all of us: "You get further in life if you keep looking forward than if you keep looking back at the what-ifs.” Indeed.

 

 

 

  And now the rest of the best of this issue of Fitness:

• "Try the Baby Food Diet" Some really silly people are telling their clients to lose weight by eating baby food (up to 14 jars per day!) Better TV’s Audra Lowe gave it a whirl and can sensibly say that it is NOT a proper substitute for grown-up food.
• "Clear Skin Ahead" Raise your hand if you still fight blemishes well into adulthood (I am typing this with one hand!) Here we get tips and tricks for keeping the zits and blotches under control.
• "Suit Yourself" A bevy of cute bathing suits for all types of figures are on display here.
• "Eat to Beat Cancer” Fitness explores the evidence on what foods and food groups help to fight cancer. My best friend had a bout with breast cancer two years ago and swears her new raw food and heavy veggie diet helped her feel much better and deal with the treatments. Something to chew on so to speak.
• "The Thing About Spring” A-choo! This is the wheezy, breezy, and sniffly time of year for me and it’s those damn allergies that take me down. Here we get advice on how to fight off that pollen and whatnot and even enjoy the great outdoors this Spring/Summer. (Someone pass me a tissue please?)

 

Overall Grade: 

A-!  A typically great issue with equal parts exercise, health and beauty that made me flip through the pages a few times.  See you in June Fitness!

 

You can follow Fitness magazine online here: Fitness magazine link.

Ox ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

 

 

 

 

Brooklyn Fit Chick's Book Giveaway Time Plus @FitnessMagazine mention!

 

Brooklyn Fit Chick is Back!

 

Fun News & Giveaways Galore!

 

 

Hey there! Hi there! Ho there one and all!

 

I am back after weeks of studying like a fool for my NASM personal training certification. The good news is—I passed! Thanks so much for all of your kind words of encouragement. And if any of you are interested in getting certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine—just hit me up. I have TONS of advice to offer.

 

So, another piece of amazing news is that I found out that I along with the fabulous Miz Fit Online and the amazing Fit Bottomed Girls  made it into the May issue of Fitness magazine! Check it out for yourself here:

 

 

 

Thanks so much Fitness! I am truly humbled to be included in such a fabulous group. You can check them out online here: Fitness online.

 

Now it is giveaway time!

 

THE PART-TIME VEGETARIAN

201 Yummy Recipes That Put the Fun in Flexitarian

By Cherise Grifoni 

 

 

Have you been thinking about going vegetarian at least part-time for better health but are less than enthused by the veggie dishes out there? Well now you are in luck! Today I am giving away three copies of THE PART-TIME VEGETARIAN: 201 Yummy Recipes That Put the FUN in Flexitarian by Cherise Grifoni. You're welcome!

 

Cherise is a full-time vegan who blogs at Your Vegan Zombie (link.) and her recipes inside look incredibly yummy.  Follow Cherise on Twitter @yourveganzombie and catch her in action with this video of the lovely chef cooking up Raw Vegan Chocolate Cheesecake here: Video of Cherise Grifoni

 

Here is a brief description of THE PART-TIME VEGAN:

“In The Part-Time Vegan: 201 Yummy Recipes That Put the Fun in Flexitarian (Adams Media, a division of F+W Media, March 2011) you'll discover how to go vegan without feeling any obligation whatsoever. But a warning: the mouthwatering recipes may have you transitioning to full-time much sooner than you anticipated!

Non-committal? Curious? Or just want to sprinkle a little meatlessness throughout your daily routine? Newbie veggies will find recipes so fresh, colorful and inventive, you won’t even miss your meat – while seasoned herbivores will love the new spins put on dips and appetizers, pasta, soups and desserts! What's not to love when you're eating:

• Purely Vegan Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread
• Lean, Mean, Black Bean Guacamole
• Very Vegan Potato Pesto Salad
• Spicy Roasted Tomato Soup
• Roasted-Garlic Mashed Taters
• Spanish Artichoke and Zucchini Paella
• Barley Pilaf with Edamame and Roasted Red Pepper

Tofu doesn’t have to be a four-letter word…and seitan, TVP and tempeh will be your new BFF! No matter why you want to go vegan - whether it's for health, the planet, or some other worthy reason - this cookbook makes sure you have fun in the process!"

 

I have three copies to give away so if you are interested; just hit me up either by posting on this Blog or reaching out to me via Twitter @BrooklynFitChik (Continental U.S. only and no P.O. boxes please.) 

 

I will randomly pick three lucky winners next Monday, May 2^nd at Noon (Eastern) and contact all directly. Good luck!

 

But wait, there's another giveaway today as well...

 

Lastly…I am giving away one more thing today and it is very personal to me. After four years of working from home I am taking my doctor’s advice and switching from a seated position to a standing desk to save myself from tight hip flexors and the general “ass spread” from sitting on my behind for hours every day. (Sorry to be so crude!)

 

Here is a picture of my new desk—it’s kind of a cross between Bob Cratchit’s desk and Robocop (that was a popular action flick in the late 80s for you younger readers.)

 

 

 

This means I am getting rid of my “Ball Chair” once and for all. So if you want it—seriously; I will ship it to you for free ASAP. It is about 55 inches in circumference. Or something like that. I am 5’ 7” and it is comfortable for me. I am not joking—any one of you out there want this baby it is totally yours. Just drop me a line! This is what it looks like inflated:

 

 

 

Until next time...

 

Ox Ox,

BFC

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow me on Twitter: BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

What Did We Learn This Month? @BicyclingMag @LuckyMagazine @PreventionMag

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

Recaps of Bicycling, Lucky and Prevention

 

Hey there one and all! Have only a few minutes today to talk to y’all about some of the May magazines that arrived at my Brooklyn abode.

 

I am studying for my NASM certification for the next week so there will not be as many posts until after test day.  If any of you have taken it before—please send along your best tips and tricks. Merci!

 

Anyhoo, let’s get to gettin’ shall we?

 

 

 

 

 

Bicycling: May 2011

 

The best part about the weather getting warmer is that I can finally get my pasty behind on a bike again—wee! So let me tell you about Bicycling’s may issue and some dude who is on the cover.

• Lance Armstrong: Editor-at-Large Bill Strickland discusses his feeling about the doping allegations that have followed Armstrong over the years and his eventual decision that Lance did indeed cheat and lied about his past behavior. There’s also a discussion on how his declining popularity affects the “Live Strong” campaign and a chart detailing “Doping in the Armstrong Era.” Something tells me that Lance will not be keeping this issue in the bathroom for future light reading.
• “Two-Faced Fuels” A cool article about the best & worst food/beverage choices to furl up your rides without giving you the sluggies later. I am happy whenever any magazine tells me to eat pizza!
• "Look Ma, No Tools" I have a confession—changing my tires fills me with dread. Here we learn how to “fix a flat on the fly” using just our bare hands. So which one of your out there will do that for me on my next ride to Rockaway Beach? Anyone? Anyone?
• Monica Raymund: The star of Fox TV’s Lie to Me is an avid cyclist and spinner (love her already!) who has literally ridden all over the world on two wheels. Cool chicks on bikes need more attention I say!
• "Off the Beaten Path" Do you want to ride through the desolate streets of Detroit? Well get this, the Dorais Park Velodrome was decimated over years of neglect and brought back to life for one day by a group of hardcore cyclists. Loved this!
• “Two Minute Solutions” Just in time for the new cycling season—some really excellent tips on how to make all aspects of your ride better. Get the magazine just for this article.
• “Heavy Lifters” A nice break from the usual “light as a feather” bike stories. Here we get the best gear for schlepping your weekend haul.

 

Check out Bicycling magazine online here: Bicycling.com

 

 

 

 
 

 

Lucky magazine: May 2011

Because shopping is a serious sport for some of us!

• Ginnifer Goodwin: For some reason the lovely actress from Big Love makes a point of stating how “curvy” she is. (FYI, if she is curvy then I am the size of a moose!)  Lucky makes the point of letting us know about her lovely charm and personality as well and take a gander at that divine dress she is wearing on the cover by Vera Wang! We also get a cool shopping guide for Ginnifer's home town of Memphis courtesy of the shop-loving actress and her sister Melissa.
• Chicago: Here we get the best places to shop at one of the best cities in the world. Seriously, I could live there sooo easily.
• “A City-by-City Guide to Vintage Stores” Love vintage clothing stores. LOVE!
• “A Shore Thing” You have to get this issue if just to check out the sick view from the bedroom window of handbag designer Colleen O’Connell. Now I want to move to Miami!
• “The Season’s Best Swimsuits” Some really cute ideas here. Now I just have to get some color on my legs….   

 

 Check out Lucky magazine online here: Luckymag.com

 

 

 
 

 

Prevention: May 2011

I heard through the grapevine that Prevention was updating their look so I decided to check it out. I have to admit that in the past I could find that much useful information in this magazine for my particular lifestyle but this was a BIG improvement. Keep it up Prevention editors!

• Sheryl Crow: Not my favorite singer but her lifestyle and down-to-earth attitude are very appealing.
• "Joint Venture" Here we have a mother/daughter healthy makeover for two women who both suffer from knee pain though there is a three decade difference in their ages.
• “Save Face This Allergy Season” My congested nose, sore sinuses and itchy eyes are in need of this one—big time!
• “Steal the Spotlight” Great story about actress-singer Kate Chapman who used to be stuck in “fat lady” parts and with zero energy. After ditching processed foods she has slimmed over 100 pounds from her figure and has more energy a thriving career. Yeah!
• “I Want Shapely Arms” Mindy Mylrea (who created the Gliding disc program) helps reader Kerrie Keegan get the upper body toning she craves.
• “Bread Winners” Quit being a sissy about sandwiches people! Bread is totally good for you if you make the proper choices.
• “Climate Control” Pages of gear that fight bad weather and give me the “I wants.”
• “Love in the Time of Viagra” We are just finding out now that the E.D. drugs that were supposed to save relationships have instead made them more chaotic for many long-term couples with competing sex drives.
• “Four Weeks to Fit & Fabulous” Editor Alyssa Shaffer gives us her plan for getting in fighting shape for the summer.
• “A Good Egg” Loved this! Great reporting about the different egg choices out there (free-range, organic, cage-free, etc.) and what they really mean to your health and well-being.

 

You can check out Prevention online here: Prevention.com

 

 

That's all she wrote for now folks. Keep coming back and I will keep you updated on the latest news, reviews, silly videos, playlists, giveaways and all good things that make life worth living. Who can beat that?

 

Until next time…

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow Me On Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!) 

 

 

Book Giveaway Time! @JillianMichaels Unlimited: How to Build an Exceptional Life

 

Book Giveaway Time!

 

UNLIMITED

How to Build an Exceptional Life

By Jillian Michaels 

 

 


 

Hi everyone! I have a very exciting book to giveaway today. So are you ready to change your life and rock your own destiny? If so, you may be lucky enough to win yourself a copy of UNLIMITED: How to Build an Exceptional Life (Crown Archetype) by Jillian Michaels, the badass trainer from NBC TV-s The Biggest Loser. 

 

Michaels has been on The New York Times bestseller list for her strength and wellness books plus she has sold millions of DVDs featuring her own workouts. This time she brings us her tips for living the best inner life possible.

 

Here is a brief description of UNLIMITED: How to Build an Exceptional Life:

“UNLIMITED’s step-by-step plan for building a purpose-filled, meaningful life—according to your truth and on your terms—is broken down into three stages: Imagine, Believe, Achieve. Within those stages, Jillian describes the specific action steps that must be taken; explains how to follow them; and offers interactive exercises for helping you to work through each issue. Sprinkled throughout the book are examples—pulled from Jillian’s own life, as well as from the lives of those she’s worked with—of challenges they’ve faced, times they’ve gotten in their own way, personal insights they’ve had, and how they’ve used those experiences to transform their lives.”

 

 And from the author herself:

“Many self-help books tell you what to achieve, but they don’t give you particularly useful tools for how to achieve it. New Age platitudes and sappy self-help mantras aren’t how it works, and you know it,” Jillian says.

“A lifetime’s worth of struggle is not overturned in a moment of positive thinking. But if you have the right attitude and skills, you can and will accomplish anything you want.”

 

If you want more information about Michaels' new book, be sure to check out the exclusive UNLIMITED web site here.

 

I have three copies to give away today and if you are interested; just hit me up either by posting on this Blog or reaching out to me via Twitter @BrooklynFitChik (Continental U.S. only and no P.O. boxes please.) 

 

I will randomly pick three lucky winners next Monday, April 18^th at Noon (Eastern) and contact all directly. Good luck!

   

Ox Ox,

BFC

Brooklyn Fit Chick

 

Follow me on Twitter: BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

 

Playlist of the week: Michael Franti ride...Hey Hey Hey!

 

 

BROOKLYN FIT CHICK'S FAVORITE PLAYLIST
(This Week...)

 
 
"Hey Hey Hey Ride" (50-minute Ride)
 
 

 

This is one of those cases where I came up with a playlist in about ten minutes flat and everyone loved it from start to finish.

 

It’s funny how I can spend hours thoughtfully putting one of these together and no one responds and then one caffeine-fuled morning; a playlist just sort of--happens and everyone enjoys the hell out of it.

 

Anyhoo, this is a fun, poppy list that features a few of my new favorite songs. Let me know what you think and please, please—send song suggestions! I am always in the market for good tunes.

 

By the way, I have had people ask me what to actually "do" with each song in your own class but I would rather just give you ideas and you do with them as you see fit. The point is to get you inspired to try some new artists or look at songs in a new way. So go for it! 

 
Please to enjoy:

 

• Hey Hey Hey: Michael Franti & Spearhead
This is simply one of the most buoyant, uplifting, cheerful and just plain “happy” songs I have heard in ages. If you are not familiar with Michael Franti—do yourself a favor and check out this clip.  

  

 

 

 

 

• Getting’ Jiggy With It: Will Smith
Just because. 

 

 

 

 

• Looking at the Bottom of the Well: Mike Doughty
This is one of those songs that makes people bop their heads along to the beat. Mike Doughty is one of my favorite artists and he always uses a clever turn of phrase in his music. Do yourself a favor and get this song now!

 

 

 

 

 

• Weapon of Choice: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
If you need something with a hard-driving, fast pace—this is the song for you.

 

 

 

 

• Wishing it Was: Santana Featuring Eagle-Eye Cherry
The guitar solo on this is just about as sexy as it gets. You have been warned!

 

 

 

 

• No You Girls: Franz Ferdinand
I have yet to get tired of this song. It’s just so damn bouncy and fun! And the clip just screams “European Art School Music Video”—in a good way.

 

 

 

 

 

• The Magnificent Seven:  The Clash
This is a fun one to play if just to check out The Clash fans bop their heads and shake their fists.  Here we see our boys on the Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder in 1981. You’re welcome! (It’s just a wee bit faster that the album version by the way.)

 

 

 

 

 

• Heartbreaker: Pat Benatar
For the rock chicks in your class.

 

 

 

 

 

• Once in a Lifetime: Talking Heads
If you are a fan of the 1986 film Down & Out in Beverly Hills directed by the brilliant Paul Mazursky (and if you are not familiar with it—Netflix it right away) this song is played over the opening credits. The live version has more angst and drama to it for some reason…

 

 

 

 

 

• Rolling in the Deep: Adele
Just discovered this artist and am basically obsessed with Adele. Play this and tell me it doesn’t make you want to pump your fist in the air. By the way—this is SINGING people!

 

 

 

 

 

• Raise Your Glass: Pink
Power pop magic that makes people smile. That’s all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

• So Far Away: Dire Straits
Woke up to this song a few weeks ago and cannot seem to get it out of my head. Putting it on the playlist helped.

 

 

 

 

That's all she wrote for now folks. Keep coming back and I will keep you updated on the latest news, reviews, silly videos, playlists, giveaways and all good things that make life worth living. Who can beat that?

 

 

 
Until next time…
 
Ox Ox,

 

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow Me On Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

 

What Did We Learn This Month? @Allure_magazine @glamourdotcom @GQMagazine

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

Recaps of Allure, Glamour and GQ

 

Hey there! Hi there! Ho there!

 

Its spring and the magazines filling up my mailbox are brimming with all kinds of fun things, tidbits, tips and gossip.

 

Today I have a few I want to talk about on this here Blog so let’s get to it shall we?

 

 

 

 

Allure magazine: April 2011 issue

 

• Eva Longoria: The Desperate Housewives star is newly single and happy. There, I just saved you from having to read through several pages on that very topic. You’re welcome!
• “Hair Trigger” A pretty interesting essay by Meg Wolitzer who felt bullied by her local salon and how she fought back. Can’t tell you how many times friends of mine complained about the very same thing.
• "New & Improved” The best in the latest skin care treatments to help you look younger but not like a frozen zombie. (Damn you Botox!)
• "Insider’s Guide: How to Store Your Makeup" My favorite section of the magazine gives tips from the experts and here we learn how to best save all of your beauty stuffs.
• "Face Off" Allure asked real women to try different beauty treatments (from topical to laser& light) treatments to see which ones had the highest user-satisfaction.
• “Beat the Clock” Red-hot superstar beauties Paulina Porizkova-Ocasek, Brooke Shields and Patti Hansen give their secrets to staying sexy and strong. Patti by the way is 55 and a robo-babe as you can see for yourself below. Yowza!

 

 

  

Holy shit balls! Did I mention she is 55 year's old?

  

Anyhoo, moving on...

  

 

 

 

 

 

 Glamour magazine: April 2011 issue

•  Ashley Greene: On my copy, she is the cover model. Apparently Glamour shot three different stars for the cover of the April issue--Freida Pinto, Emma Stone and Ashley. Why? Dunno, but I adore Ashley’s Nanette Lepore bathing suit.
• "An Ode to Tina Fey (by Tina Fey)" A paean to the lovely star/creator of one of my favorite shows, 30 Rock and the author of the cleverly titled book Bossypants. Go Tina!
• “The New Toxic Threats to Women’s Health” Ready to scare the crap out of yourself? If so, you’re in luck. Actually it’s not that bad but here we get the latest research on the chemicals we come into contact with every day and what sort of health risks we could be under depending on exposure. Okay, maybe it is that bad...
• “The Curse of the Just-OK Marriage” I worked for a bridal publication not too long ago and trust me—weddings and marriage are far oversold in our culture. Author Pamela Haag (Marriage Confidential) talks about the emerging trend of the “semi-happy” coupledom.
• “What’s Up With the Stripper Thing” Really interesting article about, um, strippers, stripping, lap dances and the champagne room. Not as salacious as you think it will be.
• “I Just Love Bossy Women” Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation, Blades of Glory) tells columnist (!) Katie Couric why strong chicks rule.
• “They Called Me a Sexual Predator” High school instructor Jodi Barrus had a student accuse her of having sex with him. Though she was eventually found not-guilty—there are repercussions from the experience that will most likely have a longstanding effect on her professional (and personal) life.

 

  

 

 

 

 

GQ magazine: April 2011 issue

• “A Fully Charged Electric-Car Primer” Think electric cars are wimpy looking? Think again! Here writer Josh Dean tries out a few different versions of the car that only needs an outlet to go vroom.
• "Raging Bullshit" Kudos to Tom Carson (for the second month in a row from me!) for having the balls to admit that Robert DeNiro is by far not the sacred acting cow deserving of untarnished respect. And screw old Bobby D. for making that piece of crap Little Fockers (I want a refund!)
• “The Punch List” What GQ thinks you should pay extra attention to this month including The Strokes (yawn,) the “TV Trend of the Month” that involves “swords, sandals and swinging dicks” (I kid you not,) some diagram that explains the “trapezoid of twee” (who the hell is this magazine for anyway?)
• “I Was Live at Five” Liked this article very much! Writer Raba Naddaf writes about working as a live, television reporter after her stint at a station in Burlington, VT. At one point she goes blank on camera and you can just feel her pain!  
• “The Lonely Planet Guide for Disposed Dictators” A pithy guide for newly displaced despots (or those we hope will be displaced soon.)
• “The Worst Sports Fans” Really spot on coverage here of the most despicable sports fans in the U.S. which rightfully includes the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies fans—blech!

 

That's all she wrote for now folks. However, if you don’t mind me be a little self-indulgent today; I would like to introduce you to my newest roommate: Chloe.

 

 

 

 

Isn’t she just adorable? I have her staying with me until August and she promises to guard my front window until then.

 

 

Keep coming back and I will keep you updated on the latest news, reviews, silly videos, playlists, giveaways and all good things that make life worth living. Who can beat that?

 

Until next time…

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow Me On Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!) 

 

What Did We Learn this Month? @MoreMag @PreventionMag @OxygenMagazine

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

Recaps of MORE, Prevention and Oxygen

 

Hey there one and all! My mailbox is brimming right now with tons of April issues of magazines and they are giving my full-on Spring fever! Now, if we can just get the weather here to rise out of the 40’s it will be even more perfect.

 

Anyhoo, let’s get to gettin’ shall we?

 

 

 

 

 

MORE magazine: April 2011 issue

 

Really becoming a fan of this magazine which is written “for women of style & substance” I must say. Let’s dive in to their April issue.

•  Kate Walsh: The lovely actress from the hit show Private Practice graces the cover and inside opens up about not having children yet “sometimes I feel like a loser…” her new fragrance business “Boyfriend,”  as well as the raven-haired beauties early years as a struggling actress in Hollywood. Read the article for yourself but I think I have a new imaginary, celebrity best friend!
•  Edie Falco: Nurse Jackie herself talks about her “non-existent” look and the perks of fame—free Prince tickets!
• "Ch-ch-Changes" I don’t know about you but MY hair has done an all-about change from my younger days. And not in a good way! Here we get advice from the masters how to avoid one of the crummier pitfalls of aging—unlovely locks.
• "Second Acts" Former Chanel VP Holli Thompson decided to change her life of frivolous fashion to one the help other eat more healthfully and take better care of themselves. Nice!
• "Men That We Love" More explores the complicated feelings women have for some men who are sexy, hot and yet (in some cases) total asshats. Such as Alec Baldwin, Christian Bale and Kanye West. NOT included here (thank goodness) is woman-beater Charlie Sheen who can go to hell for all I care.
• “The New Face-Lift” Not telling you how old I am—but I am reading these pages with extra interest. For future research, of course.
• “A Country of Women” A hell of a story about the women who choose to live in Chernobyl and how they deal with the health risks involved.
• “The Fast Track to Getting Fitter” Ah, muscle memory! I do love you so. If you were good at swimming when you were young (or tennis or running, etc.) take it up again. Your body will catch up in no time. Proven fact!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prevention magazine: April 2011 issue

Prevention makes their debut to my blog today—welcome! Let’s talk about their April issue…

• “5 New Ways to Beat Bloat” Nothing more frustrating to me than eating healthfully and yet feeling full and uncomfortable. Great tips her to keep you tummy from expanding.
• "Is Your Food Making You Old?" If you are what you eat and what you eat is making you feel sluggish and achy—time to give your diet an overhaul. The food fixes for lack of energy, achy joints and feeling forgetful.
• “The Hike of Her Life” Amazing story about Holly McDermott who spent ten years trying to find a diagnosis for her multiple symptoms. Though she has lost her hair—she has not lost her zest for life and still climbs and physically challenges herself as often as she can. Great article!
• “Nothing But Net” If you are into basketball—you will like this.
• Carrie Ann Inaba: The lovely judge from Dancing with the Stars talks about health, fitness and living a life full of joy.
• “Dance Fever” The best dance workout to help you sculpt, burn calories and more importantly—have fun!
• “Leave Your Fat Behind” A six-week walking workout that promises to deliver results.   

  

 

 

 

 

Oxygen magazine: April 2011 issue

Here we go with sexy Trish Stratus on the cover who sports some killer shoulders!

•  “Chocolate and My Bad Day” Author and clean-eating advocate, Tosca Reno, talks about her issues with snacking on bad-for-you foods and how she quiets the voices that try to keep her down.
• "Gutsy Immunity" Really excellent recipes here that will help with tummy troubles and build immunity.
• “Keep it Simple” Such a cute read here! Writer Jamie Eason gives us her playful insights into healthy living inspired by her pooch “Molly Moose.” For example: Really enjoy a walk, run and play daily, and get excited about treats. Love!
• “Stratus Quo” Cover star Trish Stratus talks about her many jobs and responsibilities including being a wrestling champ, a newish yogi AND a birthing coach! Oh, and she has a new film coming out—Bail Enforce. Inside you see Trish in some really challenging yoga poses as well. (May she should be my new imaginary, celebrity best friend? Hmmmm.)
• “Your Best Gear” A page featuring really cute gear that I want NOW!
• “A Strong, Sexy Back” Well articulated advice on how to sculpt your lats, traps, deltoids and rhomboids.
• “Feed Your Brain” The best foods for boosting your memory, fighting fatigue, lifting your mood and more.
• “How Fit Are Your Feet” Really liked this article as well. Did you know when standing your feet are supporting your body weight? When you run, it’s seven times your body weight, and jumping can be up to TEN times your body weight! How healthy feet are important to you overall physical fitness.     

  

That's all she wrote for now folks. Keep coming back and I will keep you updated on the latest news, reviews, silly videos, playlists, giveaways and all good things that make life worth living. Who can beat that?

 

Until next time…

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow Me On Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)