Fitness For The Rest of Us

Ocean Soul Yoga Presents: Claire Petretti's Yoga for Cancer Recovery

2012-01-28T07:09:00.000-07:00

To keep in line with my New Years goal to fit more yoga into my fitness routine I have come across another great yoga dvd new from Ocean Soul Yoga: Claire Petretti's Yoga for Cancer Recovery and wanted to share the details with you!

Yoga for Cancer Recovery
Claire Petretti, 2012

This dvd offers a 60 minute yoga routine and a 30 minute yoga routine. The routines are specifically made for those that are going through cancer treatments or recovery.

The 60 minute practice is designed to help restore bone loss and muscular strength, enhance circulation, digestion & lymphatic flow. The 30 minute practice is designed to dissolve stress, alleviate pain, & sooth your spirit.

Claire holds a Yoga for Cancer Therapy certification and has been practicing and teaching yoga for more than a decade. She created this dvd because she credits yoga with aiding in her own recovery from breast cancer. And a portion of the proceeds of DVD sales are donated to cancer research- making this the perfect gift (for yourself or a friend) that is in any stage of cancer recovery.

For More Information:

Please visit the Ocean Soul Yoga website

Check out articles on yoga & wellness

Purchase the Yoga for Cancer Recovery dvd

Krigler New York City Fragrances!

2012-01-28T05:03:00.001-07:00

The Belles are pleased to introduce to you: Krigler New York City Perfumes! Krigler is a — a historically iconic perfume house, that started in 1904. Albert Krigler creates unique luxury fragrances made with the finest ingredients from around the world.

We love Krigler fragrances so much because they are expertly blended to complement, not overpower the wearer. They are hand-made with the most exquisite natural ingredients. If you are in New York be sure to visit their location at the Plaza Hotel. They have been there since 1931 and that tells me they are doing something very very right! Head on in and work with Krigler's master in-house perfumers to create your own signature fragrance or scented candle! Talk about a one of a kind fragrance! And what a perfect gift!

Krigler also offers new additions to their custom and classic fragrances, including sweet-smelling moisturizers, body lotions, scrubs, cleansing milks, massage oils, shower gels and scented candles burning from 40 up to 800 hours. With enticing scents like mimosa, jasmine, peach, rose, fir, and Champagne, inspired by various far-flung travel destinations, here are some of our favorite Krigler Products:

LIEBER GUSTAV: Beautiful essence of the wild and lavish world of 1910's Berlin. The fragrance stuns with its panache and intrigues with its sensuality. With its Leather notes, Black tea and Lavender. A rich and woody scent with sensual and misterious notes.

MEDITERRANEAN PEACH: The purest incarnation of the unexpected fragrance, now takes on a sparkling sweetness. The unexpected floral bursts with a lightness and zest as notes of peach and dew fruit are highlighted and energized with blackcurrant's leaves.

For More Information:
Visit the Krigler Website
Like Krigler on Facebook
Follow Krigler on Twitter

Boundless Nutrition: Gluten Free Nutrition Bars & Protein Cookies

2012-01-27T05:08:00.006-07:00

I am super excited to tell you all about my new favorite healthy treat one stop shop: Boundless Nutrition. They offer delicious bars & cookies that are packed full of good for you ingredients like heart healthy omega 3's, protein, and green tea.

Boundless Nutrition is a natural healthy food manufacturer and distributor based in Austin Texas. They are a family owned and operated business- the Belles LOVE supporting small businesses, especially ones with such delicious & healthy products! We had the opportunity to review their yummy bars & protein cookies! Keep reading to hear my thoughts:

Oatmega Wellness Bars:
The Oatmega3 Wellness Bar is a quality meal replacement protein bar that contains a proprietary mix of three health promotin ingredients. Each bar is packed with the added benefits of 300mg of DHA and EPA Omega-3, Green Tea antioxidants - from the equivalent of 3 cups worth of decaffeinated green tea plus organic dark chocolate, high quality protein sourced from high quality milk that contains no antibiotics or growth hormones, prebiotic fiber and 25% RDI of calcium that helps you stay full longer! Boundless Nutrition uses 100% ALL NATURAL INGREDIENTS and they verify that their ingredients are non-genetically modified. The Oatega3 Wellness bars are also organic, gluten-free and low in sugar. Their overall fat content is moderate and derived only from the protein not from added sugars and fats. The bars are available in Omega 3 Blueberry Crunch, Omega 3 Dark Chocolate Mint, Omega 3 Dark Chocolate Peanut, & Omega 3 Mocha. Lindsey and I had the pleasure of sampling each of the Oatmega Wellness bar flavors. And we were blown away! Not only are these bars full of high quality nutrients - they are full of flavor! The Dark Chocolate Mint tops our list for our favorite but the Dark Chocolate Peanut and Mocha are not far behind. The bars make for an excellent meal replacement and kept us both full until our next meal time.

Perfect Fit Protein Cookies:
Perfect Fit Protein Cookies are soft, chewy, and so indulgent tasting. They are available in White Chocolate Macadamia Perfect Fit Protein Cookie, Chocolate Chip Perfect Fit Protein Cookie, and Peanut Butter Perfect Fit Protein Cookie. Each cookie has only 150 calories, 10 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, and three cups of healthy green tea! I can't think of a tastier way to get all those healthy ingredients in! These cookies are THE perfect snack or sweet treat. They are also gluten and soy free and are made with hormone free milk protein.

I really loved every flavor that I had the pleasure of trying but I think White Chocolate Macadamia was my favorite- tastes just like the classic treat but without the guilt, fat, & calories. The cookies are wrapped individually making them perfect to toss in your gym bag or desk drawer. I always keep healthy snacks in my office desk and these are even better- they are a healthy option for the mid-afternoon sweet tooth attack. And since they are full of protein & fiber- they keep you feeling fuller longer than having a junk food cookie or snack!

For more information:
Visit the Boundless Nutrition website
Like Boundless Nutrition on Facebook
Find out where you can purchase Boundless Nutrition in your area

Michelle Dozois' Peak 10 - More Cardio Interval Burn Review

2012-01-26T05:04:00.006-07:00

Today's Review: Peak 10 - More Cardio Interval Burn
Michelle Dozois, 2011 ***** (5 of 5 stars)

This is a (chaptered) 61 minute nonstop cardio workout. Michelle leads in a spacious white/ hardwood room with 6 background exercisers. You wont need any equipment for this workout and some modifications are shown. The workout structure starts with a basecamp move, move into ascent and then climb and finish with almost 30 seconds of peak intensity. You perform five 10 minute intervals for two rounds each (a total of 10 peaks).

After a warmup, Exercises include: Switch jump & knee pulls, side thrust burpees, double knee step hops, cross punches, running, jab & knee up, speed bag move up, jacks, 180 jumps, air jacks, cross knee pull, soccer drill, tire run, leap & jump shot, torso twist knee up, plank moguls, tuck jump to burpees, plyo squat floor touches & lunge back, double jacks, football run, front kick & hitch kick, double jog, hi knees, 180 & tuck jumps, floor touch plyo lunges & pendulums and concludes with a cooldown.

This is an advanced non-stop cardio workout! If you liked the original Peak 10 Cardio Interval Burn- you will love this one! The transitions are quick and there are a lot of different exercises so the choreo is a bit trickier than the other Peak 10's, though I would not say it was by any means complex. LOVE that Michelle gets some great standing core work in. Michelle is a great lead with a great energy. I love the format of these workouts and the time really flys by! No dread for such a tough workout! I received this dvd to review.

For More Information:

Visit Michelle Dozois Website

Like Michelle Dozois Fitness on Facebook

Like the PeakFit Challenge on Facebook

Follow Michelle Dozois on Twitter

Subscribe to the Michelle Dozois YouTube Channel

Cake Order: Did this cake order for a friends daughters birthday. Sponge Bob. Pineapple house & cake are chocolate with chocolate mousse filling.

Today's Tip: Opt for Organic Apples
If fall fruits held a “most doused in pesticides contest,” apples would win. Why? They are individually grafted (descended from a single tree) so that each variety maintains its distinctive flavor. As such, apples don’t develop resistance to pests and are sprayed frequently. The industry maintains that these residues are not harmful. . “Farm workers have higher rates of many cancers,” he says. And increasing numbers of studies are starting to link a higher body burden of pesticides (from all sources) with Parkinson’s disease. Read more on EcoKaren.

Today's LOLz:

Introducing Award Winning: Optimum Nutrition!

2012-01-25T05:07:00.001-07:00

The Belles would like to give a shout out for an awesome sports nutrition company: Optimum Nutrition. They offer a huge selection of award winning protein powders and supplements. They have won SIX supplement awards and after sampling their products- we know why!!!! Optimum Nutrition offers a huge line of fabulous product categories! Seriously they have something for every athlete, at home exerciser, or gym rat!

Check these fantastic product categories available from Optimum Nutrition: Amino Energy, Fitness Fiber, Gold Standard Whey Powder, Creatine Powder, Wholly Oats! Bars, Optimum Nutrition's Shaker Cup and so much more!

Optimum Nutrition's Platinum Hydrobuilder
Lindsey had the pleasure of reviewing Optimum Nutrition's Platinum Hydrobuilder, available in Chocolate Shake, Vanilla Bean, and Strawberry Shake. I sampled the Strawberry Shake and the taste is wonderful! Not chalky at all and leaves no after taste. Mixes easily and makes the perfect after workout meal that gives your muscles exactly what they need. I work out hard and lift as heavy of weights as I can to get the toned muscles we all want (yes ladies too!) so why not give my muscles what they need to really get the benefits I am seeking with my weight workouts? Help your muscles recover and rebuild your strength, power and muscle size with ON's advanced all-in-one muscle builder. Platinum Hydrobuilder is built on a foundation of staged-delivery proteins - from fast Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolates & Hydrolyzed Egg Albumen to slower Micellar Casein.

Optimum Nutrition's Platinum Hydrobuilder is enhanced with CreaPep nutrient delivery peptides, BetaPower Natural Betaine and Micronized Creapure Creatine. There's over 13.5 grams of Essential Amino Acids, but only 180 calories per serving. I love that I can get a complete (yummy tasting) meal with only 180 calories! Optimum Nutrition's Platinum Hydrobuilder also contains creatine (which our muscles need!) and arginine to help our muscles get the oxygen they need to get stronger. I was super excited to see these two ingredients among their long list of healthy ingredients. I have been researching both creatine & arginine and have been upping my intake of both and HydroBuilder is an easy, delicious way to get both. Oh and let's not forget the healthy does of amino acids we also get in HydroBuilder too!

Optimum Nutritions Essential Amino Energy

Maria had the opportunity to review the DELICIOUS blue raspberry Essential Amino Energy. Seriously- this stuff tastes amazing and of course gives me the energy I need for my tough workouts! Our bodies need aminos to build strength and endurance and there are NO known side effects at all - not even water weight gain. Just energy and nutrients! Optimum Nutrition's Essential Amino Energy is also available in Fruit Fusion and Orange Cooler- I really want to try both these flavors too but can not get over how yummy the Blue Raspberry is so I'm not sure which I will re-order, okay maybe all three. The price is great and I could really feel the difference it made in my workout without all the added calories & sugar that some brands have. Each serving contains only 10 calories, no fat, no sugar, and 2 grams of carbs but delivers 5 grams of aminos! I can't see going without this supplement for my challenging workouts again. More bang for my workout "buck" and it tastes great & is good for me, why wouldnt I? It also contains energizing & good-for-you green tea extract!

Belles give Optimum Nutrition 4 biceps up! For More information:

Visit the Optimum Nutrition website

Like Optimum Nutrition on Facebook

Subscribe to the Optimum Nutrition YouTube Channel

Follow Optimum Nutrition on Twitter

Ellen Barrett Live: Grace & Gusto Review

2012-01-24T05:00:00.001-07:00

Today's Review: Ellen Barrett Live: Grace & Gusto
Ellen Barrett, 2011 ***** (4.5 of 5 stars)

This is a live 45 minute workout performed barefoot in her studio with 4 backgrounders. The first 40 minutes is flowing cardio w/ some light toning and the last 5 minutes is floor work. This is a light cardio. You will not need any equipment for this workout. One exerciser performs easier modifications.

Standing Routine: This is fun light cardio workout that will get your heart rate up and includes some strengthening & stretching in the movements. Exercises include: side pliet step & half moon, 3 point stretch, kicks, glute pinch, side leg raise, closed pliet w/ goal post arm movements, standing cat cow, arm circles, moving tree, chair to side step, side knee to elbow pull, ballet leg points, giddy up, leg sweeps w/ arms held out, & standing saw. I like that she includes static upper body holds to hit the upper body.

Floor Work: This is a quick core & upper body routine that includes kneeling lassos, rollups, tricep dips, pulsing butterfly, and concludes with a strech.

I rate this a beginner workout that is really good for all exercisers. More experienced exercises can use it on a lighter day or to mix up their routines. Very good all inclusive feel-good workout. Ellen is a great lead w/ a great energy providing great form pointers & cuing throughout. I received this dvd to review.

For more information about Ellen Barrett & her workouts visit:

The Ellen Barrett website

Ellen Barrett on YouTube

Ellen Barrett on Twitter

Weekend: Here are some pics from DH's bday earlier this month. We went to sushi with friends & then out after for drinks & fun.

Today's Tip: Tame sugar shock

The typical toxic American diet contains thirty-five teaspoons of added sugar every day. To get an idea of how much sugar that is, measure thirty-five teaspoons of sugar in a bowl. Then imagine eating all of it. If you eat processed foods regularly, that's how much you get in added sugars alone--in addition to all the other naturally occurring sugar in foods. To reduce this toxic burden--a total of 132 pounds of sugar a year --start reading labels. Sugar comes under a variety of guises such as corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, glucose, honey, dextrose, fructose, maltodextrin, maltose, malt syrup, molasses, sucrose, and rice syrup, just to name a few. Read more on Prevention.

Today's LOLz:

Protein Packed & Delicious: Introducing Chobani Greek Yogurt

2012-01-23T05:00:00.002-07:00

I am a HUGE fan of Chobani Greek Yogurt- after all whats not to love, protein packed, delicious, convenient and available in non-fat, Chobani is seriously THE perfect snack! Chobani 0% is my Chobani of choice and is available in a huge assortment of decadent flavors.

Great for breakfast topped with some granola, delicious in smoothies instead of milk and/or protein powder, wonderful as a snack as is or toss some almonds on top for a delicious crunch. Available in lowfat, full fat, and non-fat in a huge variety of yummy flavors! AND CHOBANI IS MADE FROM COWS NOT TREATED WITH rBST! Which is very important to me!

And Chobani has three new fabulous flavors that you MUST try! Seriously the Apple Cinnamon is like eating a guilt free and filling apple pie. Crisp, juicy apples baked with cinnamon and topped with our delectable 0% Plain yogurt — who needs apple pie? NOT ME! This is my new go-to dessert.

The Chobani Greek Yogurt 0% Blood Orange is superb: thick, creamy, filling, and tastes like a guilt-free creamcicle. Seriously amazing. I never knew yogurt could taste so good! Another favorite that I had the opportunity to review is Black Cherry. So creamy & smooth with a delicious deep cherry flavor, I forget I'm eating something GOOD for me!

Did you know that Chobani Greek Yogurt 0% has NO fat, 16 grams of filling protein, and only 100-140 calories per six ounce cup? This yogurt packs a protein PUNCH that will keep you fuller longer than typical yogurt- keeping you from grabbing another snack. I keep (at least) one in my fridge at all times- work and home for all those snacking emergencies. Convenient 6 oz cups are easy to toss in your lunch bag & take with you for on the go snacking.

RUN don't walk to your neighborhood market and get some Chobani- seriously this yogurt tastes amazing (and lets not forget about the healthy protein, probiotics, and non-fat varieties).

For More Information:

Visit the Chobani Greek Yogurt website

Like Chobani on Facebook

Follow Chobani on Twitter

Subscribe to the Chobani YouTube Channel

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for our honest reviews. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Two Belles Giveaway: Crazy Dog T-Shirts

2012-01-22T06:03:00.013-07:00

The Belles are VERY excited about this AWESOME giveaway from one of our very favorite T-shirt companies Crazy Dog T-shirts. Crazy Dog T-Shirts is THE online shop for funny T-shirts, vintage T-shirts, crazy T-shirts, cool T-shirts, movie/ TV theme T-shirts, and novelty T-shirts. And their shipping is super fast! Enter our awesome Crazy Dog T-Shirts giveaway on Two Belles Fitness!

The Belles LOVE the selection of unique T-shirts that Crazy Dog offers. They have so many fun shirts that you just cant find anywhere else! And their prices are great! I discovered Crazy Dog T-Shirts while searching the internet for a tuxedo shirt for DH and I have been a faithful customer ever since. Here are some of our absolute favorite Crazy Dog T-shirts:

Arent these awesome!! They are on our ever-growing Crazy Dog T-Shirts wishlist. They have so many fun T-shirts that will remind you of your childhood and SO many hilarious T-shirts that will literally have you laughing out loud! Here are the beauties that the Belles had the pleasure of reviewing:

Can you guess which Belle chose the Bacon, Its That Good and which Belle chose the Recycle Shirt? Either way, we both LOVE our T-shirts, the high quality fabric, the fit, the cut, and the ease of use on their website. The Belles give Crazy Dog's four biceps up!!!

Check out some of my favorite T categories:

80's T-shirts

Funny T-Shirts

Retro Shirts

Mens T-shirts

Womens T-shirts

Dog clothes

Kids T-shirts

Funny Baby Onsies

T-shirt Sale

Want to win a $15.00 gift card for Crazy Dog T-shirts?? (Winners cannot have won a shirt from Crazy Dogs or affiliates, have been sent a shirt for promotional purposes in the last 90 days, or own a "review & giveaway" style blog of their own).

Enter our awesome Crazy Dog T-Shirts giveaway on Two Belles Fitness!

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 2/3/12 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and announced on 2/5/12. Good Luck!

We received samples of these products to review. We were in no other way compensated for our honest reviews. All thoughts and ideas expressed are oury own. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. We can not be held responsible for user errors in entering this contest, shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

WINNER: Bluapple

2012-01-22T05:00:00.001-07:00

Huge congrats to the winners of the Bluapple giveaway: The Dawson Family, Jackie, & KHBride!

Thank you to everyone who entered and a HUGE thanks to Bluapple ! The winner has been emailed and has 48 hours to respond to claim her fabulous prize!!!

Makeup Application Tips: Bella in Bloom Face Palette from EdenFantasys

2012-01-21T05:29:00.047-07:00

So we all know that EdenFantasys offers a huge line of sex toys and intimate apparel but they also sell my favorite makeup palette: Bella in Bloom! Keep reading to learn how to get the most out of this kit and to create a stunning look using just the Bella in Bloom face palette.

First things first: The Bella in Bloom Face Palette has literally everything your cute little face needs to look your best (and then some!) Here are some application tips that I would like to share with you all! Here is me in all my Bella in Bloom glory:

Eyes: First, start with the white eyeshadow in the Bella in Bloom palette. Using the brush provided, apply it all over your eyelid- from eyelashes to eyebrows. Then choose the pink or coral shades (either to the left or right of the white) and apply that in the crease of your eyelid. You will make a half circle in your eyelid crease. Then using the darkest eyeshadow and a wedge brush line the bottom of your half circle and blend upwardly into the medium shade. If you want to make your look more dramatic- simply wet your wedge brush a bit before applying. Reapply until the desired look is achieved. If desired, finish with eyeliner and mascara. Another tip I would recommend with this set is to use a brown eyeliner and then using your wetted wedge brush- swipe the darkest eyeshadow color over your eyeliner. It blends better & mutes the dark eyeliner. I think it really ties the look together nicely. If you want an even softer look- omit the eyeliner & just use the darkest shadow shade and a wedge brush to line your eyes.

Cheeks: Using a blush brush, apply the blush starting at the corner of your eye and drawing downward over the apple of your cheek. The area your brush touches first will be darkest and you want that to be the upper most area covered (the corner of your eye).

Lips: Chose which shade in the Bella in Bloom palette you like and swipe all over lips with the brush provided. You can mix & match the three lip glosses to create a myriad of different lip colors. If you prefer darker lips, simply line them first and then apply the Bella in Bloom gloss over your lined lips. I am wearing a combo of the two pink shades in this picture.

Visit EdenFantasys to get yourself this palette (available in difference color schemes!) and be sure to check out their other makeup and bath & body products!

Kimberly Fowlers Yoga + Weights Let's Get Ripped Review

2012-01-20T05:16:00.064-07:00

Today's Review: Yoga + Weights
Kimberly Fowler, 2011 **** (3.5 of 5 stars)

Kimberly works out alone in a nice brick studio but the camera flashes to a live class from time to time. You will only need light hand weights for this workout and the dvd is done in voice over. Kimberly provides lots of intensity/ modification options. This workout is basically a vinyassa routine that adds in static lower body holds & light weight upper body work. Typically Kimberly has you perform 5 reps of each exercise on each side.

After breath work and a stretch, exercises include: chair pose w/ tri extension & overhead press, then to the plank, updog, down dog, warrior (1, 2 or 3 & crescent pose) flow, she adds preacher curls, overhead tricep work, lat raise to overhead reach, bicep curl. Then moves into side planks, yoga pushups, hero w/ a lift, seated upright pose, seated tree w/ cross raise, cobblers pose w/ a chest fly, boat drops, dead bug w/ chest press, bridge w/ arm sweeps & a leg raise and concludes with a stretch.

I really like adding light weights to yoga routines & this one fits that bill. Doing this in voice over makes it a bit dry and therefore not super exciting. It does move fairly slowly as it is still a yoga workout. This is the perfect workout for the yogi that wants to incorporate strength work into their routine. Effective & well flowing and Kimberly provides great cuing & form pointers. I received this dvd to review.

For More Information:

Visit the YAS website

Like YAS Fitness on Facebook

Subscribe to the Yoga and Spinning YouTube Channel

Follow Kimberly Fowler on Twitter

This Weekend: haha heres an awesome pic of me with a lampshade on my head. Apparently this does really happen and its not just on TV. Actually the shade was on a post that actually looked like a lamp, but then I realized it was just a lamp shade on a post and was amused. How that amusement led to it being on my head- I can not say for sure. But here you have it "Lamp Shade Fail"

Today's Tip: AVOID Milk Produced with Artificial Hormones

Milk producers treat their dairy cattle with recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH or rBST) to boost milk production. But rBGH also increases udder infections and even pus in the milk. It also leads to higher levels of a hormones in milk. In people, high levels of IGF-1 may contribute to breast, prostate, and colon cancers. “When the government approved rBGH, it was thought that IGF-1 from milk would be broken down in the human digestive tract,”.But, the casein in milk protects most of it, “There’s not 100% proof that this is increasing cancer in humans,” admits North. “However, it’s banned in most industrialized countries.” The solution: Check labels for rBGH-free, rBST-free, produced without artificial hormones, or organicmilk. These phrases indicate rBGH-free products. Read more on EcoKaren.

Today's LOLz:

Tracie Long Fitness: Figure 30 Hips Review

2012-01-19T05:09:00.003-07:00

Today's Review: Figure 30 Hips
Tracie Long, 2011

Tracie leads this 30 minute hip focused workout alone in a brick set & works out on a pedestal. I would call this an athletic ballet style workout- which is a super unique blend! The majority of the workout is done standing & concludes with a short floor section. You will need gliding discs (or alternative), ankle weights, and a dowel for this workout.

Lots of variety of exercises so you will never get bored with this routine. She really hits the hips and includes LOTS of great balance work and some exercises will get your heart rate up. She provides plenty of tempo changes to keep your body & balance guessing.

Exercises include: balance toe point & knee raise, side leg raise, balance lunges, cross back-hurdle over- plyo lunge combo, side squat -balance kick, low runners lunge, side kicks w/ the dowel, a fun & effective routine using the gliding discs, ankle weights, & dowel, squats & weighted side leg raises, weighted toe points, and concludes with pretzel & a stretch.

I rate this a beginner/ intermediate workout that is really appropriate for all fitness levels. Very unique and a great way to get more variety in your workout routine. As always, Tracie is a fantastic lead, great demeanor and form pointers. Love the unique exercises, the focus on the hips, the balance work, and the variety of exercises she includes in 30 minutes. I received this dvd to review.

To learn more about Tracie Long, other workouts in her Longevity series or her Focus workouts, visit Tracie Long Fitness. You can also find Tracie on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. Be sure to also stay tuned for upcoming releases from Tracie Long, Weightless and Defined Lines.

New Years Resolutions??? So does anyone have resolutions? I dont do resolutions exactly but DH & I do have a goal to shift negative people out of our lives & to find more positive energy, happy couples to hang out with. I think positive energy and people are so important to surround yourself with. It would be nice to find people that are doing the same things with their lives that we are, working hard, having fun, and being responsible adults. We have started to notice that we just dont have enough of those kinds of people in our lives here. So I guess you could say we are couple hunting lol! That King of Queens episode comes to mind.

Today's Tip: Avoid Farmed Salmon

Nature didn’t intend for salmon to be crammed into pens and fed soy, poultry litter, and hydrolyzed chicken feathers. As a result, farmed salmon is lower in vitamin D and higher in contaminants, including carcinogens, PCBs, brominated flame retardants, and pesticides. The most contaminated fish come from Northern Europe, which can be found on American menus. “You can only safely eat one of these salmon dinners every 5 months without increasing your risk of cancer.” Science has also linked DDT to diabetes and obesity. There is concern about the high level of antibiotics and pesticides used to treat these fish. When you eat farmed salmon, you get dosed with the same drugs and chemicals. Switch to wild-caught Alaska salmon. If the package says fresh Atlantic, it’s farmed. There are no commercial fisheries left for wild Atlantic salmon. Read more on EcoKaren.

Today's LOLz:

GIVEAWAY: The Yin Yang Fusion Workout DVD

2012-01-18T04:52:00.034-07:00

Here is your chance to win a super versatile, fun, and fat burning workout from two of my favorite fitness instructors, Jessica Smith & Guillermo Gomez: The Yin Yang Fusion Workout. This workout is super unique and really has something for every exerciser! Enter below to win a copy for yourself!

The Yin Yang Fusion Workout
Guillermo Gomez & Jessica Smith, 2011 ***** (5 of 5 stars)

This dvd offers five 15 minute workouts that you can select from the main menu or play all. The dvd is a fusion of martial arts, chi gong, yoga, sculpting & pilates. They workout together in one segment but individually in the other 4. The set is a cute open space with framed Japanese calligraphy in the background. You won't need any equipment and each segment includes a short w/u & c/d.

Cardio: Expansion & Contraction: Guillermo leads this active kickboxing cardio workout. Exercises include ham curls, various punches & punch combos, knee strikes, & elbow strike. Guillermo does a great job of creating a fun combo that is easy to catch onto and not overly choreographed.

Total Body: Strength & Flexibility: Jessica leads this active body weight resistance workout. Exercises include: horse stance & punches, round house kick, balance kicks, 1 leg squat, runners lunge to balance raise, pike pushups, full form squats, bridge w/ side reach, side plank & side kicks, donkey kicks. Jessica really keeps this workout moving along & includes a lot of unique exercises.

Lower Body: Rhythm & Balance: Guillermo leads this segment, includes some nice lower body resistance moves and keeps you moving. Exercises include: squats, walking side kicks, side knee pulls, repeater knees, bob & weave, knee pull & spin around. This is a fun little routine that includes some lower body work.

Core: Power & Flow: Jessica leads this standing & floor core routine. Exercises include: side leg raise, unique standing knee pull, large figure 8's, runners knee pull, v sit w/ crescent kick, bridge crunches, sit up & punch, side plank w/ arm & leg circles, plank pikes, and superman elbow pulls. Includes some great balance work & lots of unique moves.

Relax: Movement & Stillness: Guillermo leads this chi gong inspired routine & Jessica works out with him. Exercises include: chi breathing techniques, active stretching, purification breathing exercises, chataranga, up dog, low runners lunge to a balance warrior, and concludes with a seiza seated relaxation position. This is a very unique segment- great for relaxation.

I rate these workouts intermediate but are appropriate for most all fitness levels. Both instructors do a fantastic job w/ form pointers & their cuing is spot on. Tons of variety & time options and so many unique and fun exercises! I really enjoyed all the segments & see myself using this dvd a lot. I received this dvd to review.

Want to win this awesome workout? Enter here:

Mandatory Entry: Visit the Yin Yang Workout website & tell us something you learned!

Optional Entries: After completing mandatory entry above

~1 Entry: Like 10 Pounds Down on Facebook
~1 Entry: Visit the 10 Pounds Down website & tell us something you learned
~1 Entry: Visit the Yin Yang Workout website & tell us something you learned
~1 Entry: Like Yin Yang Fusion on Facebook
~1 Entry: Like Sensei Guillermo Gomez on Facebook

~1 Entry: Follow my blog via GFC
~1 Entry: Like Fitness For Us on Facebook

~1 Entry: Follow Fitness For the Rest of Us on twitter
~5 Entries: Re-blog about this giveaway and leave a link

~1 Entry: Like I Want a Freakin' Cupcake on Facebook (my cake company)
~3 Entries: GFC Follow Momming on a Budget
~1 Entry: Enter any of my current giveaways (1 entry per giveaway)

~1 Per Tweet: Tweet the following up to 1 hr apart up to 3X per

#win #fitness dvd: Yin Yang Fusion Workout on @fitnessforus http://tinyurl.com/72arhh4

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 1/27 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and annouced on 1/29/12. Contest open to US Residents! Good Luck!

We received samples of these products to review. We were in no other way compensated for our honest reviews. All thoughts and ideas expressed are our own. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. We can not be held responsible for user errors in entering this contest, shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

Jessica Smith's NEW 10 Pounds Down Better Body Blast Review!

2012-01-17T05:04:00.004-07:00

Today's Review: 10 Pounds Down Better Body Blast
Jessica Smith, 2011 ***** (5 of 5 stars)

This dvd has three 20-23 minute workouts, Arms, Legs, and Abs. The segments can be played together or separately from the main menu. Jessica works out alone in a studio set and you will only need dumbbells. Jessica performs a base move and then adds on to amp up the intensity. This is a lighter weight, higher rep, moderately fast paced strength workout that will get & keep your heart rate up.

Arms: Jessica performs a base move and then adds some lower body movement to up the intensity and includes some cardio intervals to get the heart pumping. Exercises include: alt shoulder raise to tri extension add lunge, bi curl add pliet & torso twist, tri kickback add side step or hop, row add balance leg raise, YTI, tri pushups, wide & narrow chest press add crunch, superman, pushups and plank to pike. UB focused cardio includes: jabs, upper cuts & speed bag jacks. Includes a short w/u & c/d.

Legs: Jessica performs a base move and then adds to it to up the intensity and includes some cardio intervals to get the keep pumping. Exercises include: dips adding floor touch w/ dumbbells, squat w/ a deadlift, side lunge adding a cross knee pull, side lunge add outer thigh raise, skater, balance reach & outer thigh raise, single leg deadlift adding a balance rear leg raise, balance glute pinches, squat jacks, weighted low lunge to plannk, jacks, lying L leg raises, & frog glute raises.Includes a short w/u & c/d.

Abs: This is a nonstop core routine that includes some active core workouts to get your heart working a bit. Exercises include: circle crunches, finger to toe cross crunches, knee drops, cross knee pull, plank hip twists, plank side knee pull, plank tap ins to plank hop ins, table top twists, V drops, cross crunch with side pinch, reverse crunches adding a twist, and finishes with plank twists. Jessica provdies tons of intensity options making this really adaptable to most fitness levels!

I rate this a solid intermediate workout. You cant heavy up much on the upper body- though I didnt need to. Using 8#'s I really felt the work and know I will be feeling it tomorrow. You can heavy up a bit more on the lower body. My heart rate was up in both segments and the cardio intervals got it up even more. REALLY like this workout and know it will get a ton of use. As always, Jessicas cuing & form pointers are spot on! I received this dvd to review.

For More Information:

Visit the 10 Pounds Down website

Like 10 Pounds Down on Facebook

Weekend: Went to get my hair done this weekend- with the same stylist Ive been using for years. Wanted tangerine with blonde highlights. The tangerine dye itself was pink- which leached into the blonde highlights I had in my hair already and then when she washed it, the dye mixed in to the new blonde highlights and I had hot pink hair SO to fix this she redyed it a dark burgundy color. Which I do not dislike, but it is def not what I wanted. Im hoping it will fade to a nicer shade :( It is actually darker than the picture shows....

Today's Tip: Microwave Popcorn: The Problem

Chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), in the lining of the bag, are part of a class of compounds that may be linked to infertility in humans. In animal testing, the chemicals cause liver, testicular, and pancreatic cancer. Studies show that microwaving causes the chemicals to vaporize—and migrate into your popcorn. “They stay in your body for years and accumulate there,” which is why researchers worry that levels in humans could approach the amounts causing cancers in laboratory animals. DuPont and other manufacturers have promised to phase out PFOA by 2015 under a voluntary EPA plan, but millions of bags of popcorn will be sold between now and then. Read more on EcoKaren.

Today's LOLz:

IT Cosmetics QVC Special

2012-01-16T04:59:00.001-07:00

IT Cosmetics Innovative Technology Cosmetics by Jackie Kern is created with the help of leading plastic surgeons to infuse medical grade makeup with healing skin loving ingredients with cutting edge technology. The Result- fabulous, flawless makeup & beauty solutions for everyone's skin needs! Regularly featured on QVC IT Cosmetics has quickly become OUR makeup brand of choice. With such fabulous products that are GOOD for us, we made the switch fast. IT Cosmetics has a huge variety of fabulous cosmetics, brushes, and beauty solutions! We hope you tuned in on Friday, January 13, 2012 IT Cosmetics for their their very first "Today's Special Value" - Complexion Perfection Anti-Aging 4-Piece Collection!! But if not, here is what is included in the fabulous set!

IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Dual Airbrush Concealer/Foundation Brush:
IT Cosmetics will premiere its new Heavenly Luxe Brush on QVC. This dual brush flawlessly applies foundation and concealer leaving you with a perfect satiny finish - you would think the make-up was airbrushed on. Like all It Cosmetics brushes the bristles are ultra-luxe and ultra-plush which is what delivers the flawless, airbrushed look. And, don't forget all It Cosmetics brushes are 100% cruelty-free! This brush is a great addition to the It Cosmetics line of products and brushes.

IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Ultra-Plush Powder Brush:
IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Brush is ultra-plush and delivers a flawless, airbrushed look. the Heavenly Luxe Brush is 100% cruelty-free, high quality and feels luxurious on your skin. The soft-touch rubberized jumbo handle is comfortable in your hand making application easy! The brush ensures even distribution of your powder- no more dark spots and uneven distribution! The Heavenly Luxe Powder Brush is perfect for all your powders; I use mine with my mineral powder foundation and my IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores.

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores:
This fabulous light weight anti-aging micro finishing powder is the perfect addition to everyone makeup regime- simply dust this translucent powder on to eliminate the visibility of pores, fine lines, blemishes, and other imperfections. You can now easily achieve that fabulous airbrushed look! IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores is infused with hydrolyzed collagen, vitamins A, C, E, & K, antioxidants and pure silk. Bye Bye Pores is talc-free and utilizes silica which is a round particle designed to float on the skin and blur out all imperfections! PLUS it absorbs oil & sweat to give you that beautiful matte airbrushed finish all day long! I love how smooth my skin looks and feels with Bye Bye Pores!

Bye Bye Under Eye:
This full coverage waterproof concealer is perfect for covering under eye bags & discoloration and all skin imperfections! Full of collagen, vitamins K, A, C it is clinically proven to reduce under eye puffiness and discoloration while at the same time strengthening delicate under eye skin. Bye Bye Under Eye is a delicate formula that stays put all day long! It is being used to conceal facial bruising and swelling on the face and body of surgery patients-wow! Bye Bye Under Eye is available in a variety of shades- so everyone can find their perfect match. And is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic! I use this to conceal any blemishes on my entire face. This is hands down the BEST concealer I have ever used (and I only use department store makeup counter brands). This is the only concealer I will ever use! Covers all blemishes & discolorations!

Shhhhh!!! Also included in the kit as a special surprise, but not shown on TV, is a Travel Size Brow Power Universal Brow Pencil!!

IT Cosmetics Brow Power:

I have sparse eyebrows and must use a brow pencil so I was beyond thrilled with the opportunity to try IT Cosmetics Brow Power- not only is this pencil a universal transforming shade that adjusts to all hair colors- from blonde, sliver, brown, or black, it also has a fantastic spooley brush on the opposite end to really finish and polish your brow look. Simply press softly for lighter hair shades or firmer for darker hair colors. This anti-aging pencil has an oval shaped tip to create the most natural looking, brow- perfect for thin or thick brows. The exclusive GrowLuxe techonology ingredients target brow hair loss and restore your brow hair follicles and promote healthy brow growth (my sparse brows LOVE THIS). The long-wear formula is waterproof and smudge resistant!

I hope you tuned into QVC on Friday, January 13, 2012 to see the "Today's Special Value"! But if not, head on over to the IT Cosmetics website and check out the values there!

For more information about IT Cosmetics:

Visit the IT Cosmetics website

Follow IT Cosmetics on Twitter

Like IT Cosmetics on Facebook

Visit the IT Cosmetics YouTube Channel

Check out the IT Cosmetics store locator to find a distributor near you

WINNER: Jeanette Jenkins Sexy Abs with Kelly Rowland dvd!

2012-01-15T05:01:00.004-07:00

And the winner of the Jeanette Jenkins, Hollywood Trainer Sexy Abs with Kelly Rowland dvd is: latanya, who said...I learned Blast the Belly Fat voted the #1 fat melter

Thank you to everyone who entered and a HUGE thanks to Jeanette Jenkins! The winner has been emailed and has 72 hours to respond to claim her fabulous prize!!!

Review: Rhythmica Dance Cardio Party by Gaiam

2012-01-14T05:14:00.000-07:00

Today's Review: Rhythmica: Dance Cardio Party DVD
Marc Santa Maria, 2011

Rhythmica is the latest dance workout released on December 6th 2011 by Gaiam. Featuring the hottest music in hip hop, house and Latin, Rhythmica delivers a calorie scorching cardio workout while enjoying the latest dance techniques for a truly unique exercise experience. Led by NYC Crunch Instructor Marc Santa Maria, Rhythmica consists of three dance workouts to get your heart rate up while delivering a fun dance workout. Marc is joined by two background exercisers. From the main menu, you can opt to play the entire workout or choose from the three twenty-minute dance workouts: Get Fit House Party, Latin Dance Mix or Hip-Hop Fat Burn. No equipment is necessary for the workout.

Get Fit House Party is a high-energy dance workout that focuses on the legs and glutes while delivering a cardiovascular workout with real Latin dances and the latest club moves.
Latin Dance Mix is a fat-burning fiesta rooted in Latin dance basics. Marc revs up the calorie burn with the cha-cha, salsa and merengue.
Hip-Hop Fat Burn features hip-hop party moves that burns mega calories while using moves that target and tones your arms while also zeroing in on abs and lower body.

Rhythmica is fun and energetic dance workout that will have you forgetting that you are exercising at all. Marc does an excellent job breaking down the dance routines into manageable pieces before seamlessly putting them together to create a fun dance routine. His teaching style makes the steps easy to learn and the dance routine easy to grasp the first time around. The workout is adaptable to all fitness levels – dancers and non-dancers alike. The workout is extremely versatile and can be easily customized based on workout preferences, energy levels or time available to workout. Rhythmica provides an innovative cardio dance workout that offers variety while also making exercise FUN! For More Information visit Gaiam. I receieved this dvd to review.

Ellen Barrett's Power Fusion Review

2012-01-13T04:59:00.023-07:00

Today's Review: Ellen Barrett Live Power Fusion
Ellen Barrett, 2011 **** (4 of 5 stars)

This is a live 45 minute workout performed barefoot in her studio with 4 backgrounders. The first 30 minutes is done standing and the last 15 on the floor. This is a flowing active blend of pilates, ballet, & yoga. You will not need any equipment for this workout. One exerciser performs easier modifications.

Standing Routine: This flowing routine will strength, stretch, & lightly tone your muscles all in a functional routine that will keep you moving and work on balance. Exercises include: travel pliets w/ bow & arrow arms, relevet & V arms, side step squats w/ knee raise, figure 8 side to side lunges, pliet w/ push & pull arms, Goddess pose add inner thigh sweep & tri pushback, side floor reach to side overhead reach (hits the core), warrior pulses, pulsing football stance, and runners stretch.

Floor Routine: This floor routine will functionally strengthen & stretch your muscles. Exercises include: donkey kicks adding a thread through, table top threads, figure 8, knee to nose stretches, can can for the core, flowing leg circles, and flowing spine stretches.

I rate this a solid beginner workout- that is great for all exercisers on light days. I really think this would be an ideal workout to give to someone just starting because of the great energy, positive feelings, and the gentle low-impact exercises that will actually work your muscles & heart. While not a strenuous workout- it is great for variety and to vary the intensity of your workouts. Ellen is an awesome instructor, great personality, great cuing & form reminders. I received this dvd to review.

For more information about Ellen Barrett & her workouts visit:

The Ellen Barrett website

Ellen Barrett on YouTube

Ellen Barrett on Twitter

Last Weekend: DH's birthday was last weekend so we went to sushi w/ a group of friends & then out after. I made him an iCake cuz he loves his iPhone & iPad. It was, by request, chocolate covered cherry- a fav of mine as well so: iYummmmm....had a hair disaster at the salon that morning so I was stuck there for about 5 hours and ended up running way late on fiinishing this cake so it didnt end up as nice as I'd have hoped but all in all pleased. Of course DH was happy with it.

Today's Tip: Eat better for less
In many cases, we've been given a false choice between promoting our health and saving money. The reality is, when you stop buying junk and purchase only nutrient-rich, high-quality food, you'll be surprised by how far you can stretch your grocery dollars. Seasonal produce, co-ops, frozen produce, & dried beans are all healthy & cheap options! Read more on Prevention.

Today's LOLz:

Shape: Pink Power Flat Abs 5 Ways Review

2012-01-12T04:53:00.006-07:00

Today's Review: Shape: Pink Power Flat Abs 5 Ways

Jessica Smith, 2011 ***** (5 of 5 stars)

This dvd has five 10 minute segments that can be played individually or mixed & matched to create your own custom workout. Jessica leads with 2 backgrounders in a nice studio/ gym setting. One exerciser provides easier modifications.

Ab Rehab: Exercises include: frog crunches, long lever cross crunches, twisting V, & plank pike walks. Jessica takes you through this routine twice, the second round she adds intensity options to make the work more challenging.

Pilates for a Tighter Tummy: These exercises are ballet & pilates inspired and include: roll downs, pulsing scissors, oblique twists, crunches w/ a leg lift & sweep, attitude leg circles, corss leg under over/ leg drops & hip lifts, ballerina teaser raises, and kneeling side knee pulls.

Core Makeover: This w/o hits all angles of the core & back and has some super unique & fun exercises including: cobra w/ a core lift, 1 leg plank w/ a knee sweep, X double crunches, side plank w/ a lower leg circle, V drop w/ U knees, wiper leg drops w/ a tuck, X raises for the low back adding a side sweep crunch, figure 8 rows, & side knee pull.

Fat Free Cardio Ab Blast: This is an awesome core cardio routine! Exercises include: burpee & plank knee pulls, side plank w/ a leg sweep, runners lunge floor touch to knee up, balance oblique toe points, plank moguls, V hold w/ balance challenge arms, plyo squats w/ cross chop, cross chop knee pulls, Mt climbers, and a unique supine rocker move. The dvd is worth this section alone- LOVE IT!

Turbo Charged Belly Toning: You will dumbbells for this workout. You start standing and preform triangle side raises, elbow to side knee pull down, & small figure 8's. You then move to the floor and perform a weighted recliner move, cross crunches, and sit ups w/ a weighted reach. Great addition of dumbbells in this and unique exercises.

I rate these solid intermediate core routines, love the variety of exercises & time options. As always Jessica is a fabulous instructor, great personality, cuing, and form pointers. LOVE the core cardio routine- great way to get a lot accomplished in only 10 minutes! I received this dvd to review.

For more information:

Visit the Gaiam Website

Visit Jessica Smith's 10 Pounds Down Website

Visit the Shape Website

New Years Eve: We went out with friends for New Years eve and stayed in a hotel since it was all the way across town. Heres a few pics. And here are the cupcakes I made for the pre-partay! It was fun- first time we've gone out on New Years in a LONG TIME -like 10 years probably. I dont have any pics of DH & I (he was the one taking these)...The ones of us were on someone elses camera and Im just waiting for them to pop up on facebook so I can steal them...cupcakes are peanut butter cup!

Today's Tip: Counter the cocktails

What you drink in a restaurant is as important as what you eat. If you start having cocktails before you even order, the alcohol may go to your head and sabotage your willpower when it comes to making healthy menu choices. It's better to wait and enjoy a drink with your meal. Choose red wine with dinner over cocktails with sugary mixers; the antioxidants in the wine are good for you. Read more on Prevention.

Today's LOLz:

RAVE: ENELL Sports Bra

2012-01-11T04:57:00.055-07:00

Introducing ENELL Sports Bras! These are serious bras for big busted gals that need real support for their high impact exercises! When I got the URX-MT (rebounding) workouts I KNEW my normal sports bras were NOT cutting it and sought out something better- well I found it! I'm sorry I waited this long. I wear my new Enell Sports Bra with every cardio workout now. No more bouncing around if you know what I mean.

ENELL was invented by Renelle Braaten, who is an avid volleyball player and a well endowed woman. Renelle created ENELL Sports Bras with the help of her mother to fill her own needs and the bra took off. She was soon making them for friends, family, and fellow athletes! The ENELL Sports Bra really keeps the girls in place during even the MOST high impact workouts. ENELL is endorsed by Pro Beach Volleyball Players, Olympic Biathletes, and other sports enthusiasts. The bra is designed to provide the most superior support and comfor during all your high-impact activities. Seriously- if the girls can be kept in place during rebounding - they can stay in place during anything!

I love the front eyelette clasps- super easy to get on and off. The hooks align & slip right into place. The front clasps also avoid the uni-boob look that is so unattractive. I workout alone and I still am not a fan of uni-boob look. The fabric is smooth & soft against the skin and there are no odd seams that can cause irritation. Even with tons of arm movements I dont get any weird rubbing issues that some other sports bras cause. The thing I love the most about my ENELL Sports bra is that it is custom fitted. You measure yourself before you order so you know you are getting the right fit! And mine is just right. Snug but not at all uncomfortable-keeping everything exactly where it needs to be. NO MORE bouncing!!!

ENELL also has a new ENELL LITE Bra that is made for all your low to medium intensity workouts. We dont do ALL high impact exercises so this is the perfect bra for your strength training, yoga, pilates, walking, and lower intensity aerobics.

For More Information:

Visit the ENELL website

Like ENELL on Facebook

Two Belles Giveaway: Christi Taylor's new Totally Cool Step 2 DVD

2012-01-10T05:09:00.000-07:00

Head on over to Two Belles Fitness & enter to win Christi Taylor’s Totally Cool new workout: Totally Cool Step2! This workout is literally FUN IN A BOX!!! For all you steppers- this is just the workout you need to keep your workouts fun & interesting. And for those newer to step- the dvd contains a move master to help you learn the moves! Keep reading and enter below to win a copy of your very own!

Review: Totally Cool Step 2
Christi Taylor, 2011

Christi leads this 40 min step video in a nice open space w/ cute Asian art on the wall behind. Christi works out w/ 5 backgrounders, some of which provide modifications. This dvd also contains a “move master” segment where Christi shows the combo’s while counting, and a 13 min yoga & 13 min pilates workout. You will only need a step bench for this workout.

Step: The music in this workout is great- fun & high energy. Christi leads you through six fun choreographed step routines. This is the perfect addition to her original Totally Cool Step and is perfect for all you steppers out there that love fun and unique choreography. Exercises include: ham curls, straddle, L’s, reapeaters, slap step, twists, pony, revolve, corner stomp, marching on the step, and Christi adds fun claps and arm movements. She does a fantastic job of utilizing the space all around the step for these fun step routines.

Yoga: Led by another instructor this is a nice flowing yoga segment. Exercises include: half moon, vinyassa flow adding some unique twists, airplane, triangle, chair, and warrior variations.

Pilates: Led by another instructor this is a tough core focused pilates routine. Each exerciser works at a different intensity so you can choose your level. Exercises include: roll over, hundre, lying windmill, pilates bike, leg circles, teaser, double leg stretch, pilates V, plank pushups, pike superman, & side planks.

You can really tell Christi is having fun in this workout- which makes it more fun for everyone. I rate the choreography in this one advanced and the intensity high intermediate- though you can easily adjust your intensity (by adding hops or keeping it low impact) to suit your needs. This is great for those that love choreographed routines. Christi is a great lead- great cuing and has a fantastic energy! I would love to take a live class with her one of these days!

Want to win this totally cool workout? Enter on Two Belles Fitness!

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 1/14 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and annouced on 1/16/12. Contest open to US Residents (No PO Boxes)! Good Luck!

Blue Apple Giveaway

2012-01-09T05:01:00.044-07:00

I am super excited about this giveaway! Introducing Bluapple - a cute little plastic apple you toss in your crisper drawer or fruit bowl to extend the life of your produce by three times longer! Keep reading and enter below to win your very own Bluapple two-pack! There will be THREE winners!

I read about Bluapple in a magazine and HAD to try it! Well I love it and will not go without! The winners of this giveaway will each receive a two pack of bluapples that will last for three months! And Bluapple sells 12 months worth of refills for only $9.99! So you dont have to throw out your plastic apple, just refill it (good for the environment & your wallet). Using the Bluapple is super easy- just place it with your produce and you are done! That simple, and your produce will last up to three times longer! There are only two of us in the house & I only shop once a week, so I had a produce spoilage problem- well not anymore! Just toss in the Bluapple to save your produce and MONEY!

What is Blueapple and how does it work: The ripening of fruit and vegetables is a chemical process that is caused by ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone. It initiates and accelerates the ripening of fruit and vegetables, and then causes them to deteriorate. By lowering the level of ethylene gas surrounding fruits and vegetables, their shelf life can be greatly increased, slowing the maturation of fruit, protecting vegetables, and greatly reducing spoilage. Which is exactly what the Bluapple does! Simply set it in your fruit bowl or refrigerator crisper to keep your produce fresh up to three times longer!

Bluapple has taken proven ethylene gas remediation technology found in commercial ethylene control products and created the Bluapple™ - a simple, organic, nontoxic and recyclable device for the home that extends the storage life of produce up to three times longer. The BluApple™ provides a solution to the problem of keeping expensive produce fresh, adapting technology that has been used safely and successfully by the commercial and organic produce industries for decades.

Want to be one of the THREE winners that will take home their very own Bluapple two-pack? Enter here!

Mandatory Entry: Visit the Bluapple website & tell me something you learned along with your email address.

Optional Entries: After completing the mandatory entry above

1 Entry: Tell me why you want to win this giveaway
1 Entry: Like Bluapple on Facebook
3 Entries: GFC Follow Momming on a Budget
1 Entry: Like Fitness For Us on Facebook
1 Per Giveaway: Enter any of my other current giveaways.
1 Entry: Follow my blog via GFC
5 Entries: Re-blog about this giveaway and leave a link (leave 5 comments)
1 Entry:Vote in my poll (upper right corner)
1 Entry: Follow Fitness For the Rest of Us on twitter
1 Entry: Follow my blog via RSS
1 Entry: Like I Want a Freakin' Cupcake on Facebook (my cake company)
1 Per Tweet: Tweet the following up to 3X daily at least 1 hour apart

#win @fitnessforus #giveaway Keep Produce FRESH Bluapple http://lindseylu8.blogspot.com/2012/01/blue-apple-giveaway.html

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 1/20/12 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and annouced on 1/22. Contest open to US Residents! Good Luck!

I received a sample of this product to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest review. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I can not be held responsible for user errors in entering this contest, shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

RAVE: Fage: Total Greek Yogurt

2012-01-08T05:42:00.002-07:00

Fage is a leading global brand of all-natural, premium yogurt made in the USA. FAGE Total Greek yogurt offers a distinctively rich, creamy fresh dairy flavor and texture that is uncommonly luxurious! FAGE is Greece's largest dairy company, producing milk, cheese and yogurt for customers worldwide. Owned and strategically led by the Filippou family since its founding in 1926, they feature traditional style Greek yogurt, known for its ridiculously thick consistency. FAGE products were first distributed in the United States in 1998.

The Belles had the great pleasure of sampling Fage yogurt and we are in LOVE!

FAGE (pronounced “fa-yeh”) Total Greek yogurt is 100% natural Greek yogurt, free of additives, preservatives, and sweeteners made with only three ingredients: raw milk, raw cream and live active cultures. The milk is pastuerized to destroy any harmful bacteria. Next, the Fage Total live cultures are added. The yogurt then undergoes a unique straining process to remove the watery whey which gives Fage Total yogurt its thick, creamy texture. And for the health conscious, strained yogurt has a higher protein content - with up to 23g of protein in each individual serving - and a lower sugar content than unstrained yogurt. Score! FAGE Total Greek Yogurt makes a great addition to any healthy eating plan because of its high concentration of all-natural protein, raw ingredients, low calorie count and unique versatility. FAGE Total Greek Yogurt is a healthy hand in the kitchen too. With its thick, creamy texture, it can easily replace higher-calorie foods, such as cream, mayonnaise, crème fraiche and sour cream in many recipes. So you can cut the calories without sacrificing the taste.

FAGE Total Greek yogurt is available in:

FAGE Total Classic
FAGE Total 0%
FAGE Total 2%FAGE Total- Strawberry, Cherry, Peach, Honey and Blueberry
FAGE Total 2%- Strawberry, Cherry, Peach, Honey and Blueberry

For More Information:
Visit the Fage Website
Like Fage on Facebook
Follow Fage on Twitter

Yoga For the New Year: Yoga for Runners & Tibetan Yoga of Movement

2012-01-07T05:15:00.008-07:00

I am aiming to get more yoga into my fitness routine this year! We all know how important it is but...so many workouts, so little time! Well no more- here are some awesome new yoga workouts to get us all moving toward our goals!

Yantra Yoga: Tibetan Yoga of Movement: Perfect Rhythm of Life:
Two new Yantra Yoga DVDS from Shang Shung Institute from Fabio Andrico and Laura Evangelisti

This DVD set contains “Tibetan Yoga of Movement: Level One” and “Tibetan Yoga of Movement: Level Two” in a 2 volume, 4-disc set that covers a full spectrum of Yantra Yoga. Each volume contains two dvds: the first dvd provides you with detailed instruction for all the movements and the second is to follow during practice. This is your complete guide to all things Yantra Yoga!

Yantra Yoga provides a graceful while still powerful movements through this dynamic and unique system of Tibetan

Yoga. This practice provides you physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. Yantra Yoga is one of the oldest recorded systems of yoga in the world. Its unique series of positions and movements, combined with conscious breathing, can help coordinate and harmonize one’s vital energy so that the mind can relax and find its authentic balance. Yantra Yoga contains a wide range of movements that can be applied by everyone, and it is a superb method to attain optimal health, relaxation, and balance. This 2 disc set contains very unique routines that we will certainly put to great use in the new year. A perfect addition to everyones exercise library- yogi or not.

For more information:
Visit the Yantra Yoga website
Like Yantra Yoga on Facebook
Follow Yantra Yoga on Twitter

Christine Felstead's Yoga for Runners:
Keeping Runners Healthy and on the Road

Christine Felstead created Yoga for Runners to help keep runners healthy & active. We all know that running and all exercise really can cause some stress on our joints and we need to stretch & lengthen those joints, muscles, and ligaments to keep active & to keep our workouts going. While these workouts target the specific muscles that runners use most- we can all benefit from the routines

Christine has created two Yoga For Runners dvds- one is Yoga For Runners: The Essentials, and provides everything the beginner and beyond needs to keep themselves injury free and running! The second is

Christine Feldstead's Yoga For Runners, Keeping Runners Healthy on The Road, Intermediate Program. The intermediate program is perfect after mastering the Essentials program or to use for a more challenging program. Use them in conjunction to meet all your yoga needs and keep all your muscles loose & stretched.

Christine created these unique workouts when she realized that her workout routine was really lacking flexibility and yoga training. She was fit in other ways, but really needed to focus on creating a more rounded fitness regimine. Enter Yoga For Runners- which has provided her and many others exactly what their workout routines needed. The Belles coundnt agree more and plan to incorporate Yoga For Runners into our fitness routines this year!

For more information:
Visit the Yoga for Runners website
Like Christine Feldstead's Yoga For Runners on Facebook
Follow Yoga for Runners on Twitter

Two Belles GIVEAWAY: Scunci, Softlips, Oxy, Stopain, & Ocean

2012-01-06T05:07:00.000-07:00

Want to win this fabulous HUGE prize pack? Enter on Two Belles to score Scunci Linziclip, Softlips, Ocean, Oxy, and Stopain!

Scunci Linziclip:
The Scunci Linziclip is a simple to use claw clip but with a sharper more sophisticated style! Like a standard claw clip, it has springs and teeth which firmly grip the hair, however the linziclip boasts a sleek cylinder exterior which hides the clips springs and teeth leaving you with a polished look! he Linziclip comes in a variety of sizes, colors, designs and finishers. Its unique flat bottom design allows for a firm, yet comfortable hold. The hinges are hidden discreetly to the sides of the clips - doing away with the "butterfly" wings on the top of the clip!

Softlips:
As you know the Belles are HUGE fans of Softlips! Whats not to love- a huge variety of flavors and the soft silky way Softlips leaves my lips- I cant decide which I like more. You have to check out Softlips new Limited Edition Seasonal Flavors: Sugar & Spice, Sugar Plum Berry, Winter Mint, & Sugar Cookie! The Seasonal Softlips are a perfect stocking stuffer for all the ladies (of any age) this Christmas season! They are all so yummy I have a hard time deciding which is my favorite! I love the coolness of the Winter Mint but the flavor of the Sugar Cookie is irresistible! Yum yum- all the tasty goodness of an actual sugar cookie but none of those pesky calories ;) Seriously, we are in love with the new Softlips Seasonal Flavors. And the best part- they are SPF 20, we know how important it is to protect our skin for the harmful UV rays of the sun and our lips are even more sensitive than our skin!

Stopain:
Stopain is available in four formulations: Stopain Sray, Extra Strength Spray, Stopain Extra Strength Roll-on and NEW Stopain Gel. The spray and roll-on are easy-to-use and convenient, hands-free and mess-free formulations that allow you to apply to the affected area without the mess for instant pain relief. All Stopain products provide temporary relief of minor aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with backaches, arthritis, strains, bruises and sprains.

Ocean Nasal Care:
Introducing Ocean, the nasal saline brand most recommended by doctors and pharmacists! And after having tried Ocean- we know why- it works wonders and is drug free! Ocean has something for everyone, including your little ones, pregnant or nursing mama's, and for all of us that dont want to add chemicals to our bodies. Ocean Saline Nasal Spray is perfect for the dry winter season when our nasal passages dry out and cause irritation or even bloody noses! And is perfect for the whole family.

OXY Clinical:
OXY Clinical has been developed by OXY Acne Solutions and is an affordable, over-the-counter acne treatment and offers breakthrough complexion care to treat, heal nd help prevent acne breakouts - all without a prescription. The OXY Clinical line consists of a Clearing Treatment, Advanced Face Wash and Hydrating Therapy. All OXY Clinical products contain an advanced delivery system technology that helps the product to work continuously over time while remaining gentle enough to use every day.

Want to win this HUGE prize pack? Enter on Two Belles!

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 1/6 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and announced on 1/8 . Contest open to US residents with a street address! Good Luck!

Fitness For The Rest of Us

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Krigler New York City Fragrances!

Boundless Nutrition: Gluten Free Nutrition Bars & Protein Cookies

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Two Belles Giveaway: Crazy Dog T-Shirts

WINNER: Bluapple

Makeup Application Tips: Bella in Bloom Face Palette from EdenFantasys

Kimberly Fowlers Yoga + Weights Let's Get Ripped Review

Tracie Long Fitness: Figure 30 Hips Review

GIVEAWAY: The Yin Yang Fusion Workout DVD

Jessica Smith's NEW 10 Pounds Down Better Body Blast Review!

IT Cosmetics QVC Special

WINNER: Jeanette Jenkins Sexy Abs with Kelly Rowland dvd!

Review: Rhythmica Dance Cardio Party by Gaiam

Today's Review: Rhythmica: Dance Cardio Party DVD Marc Santa Maria, 2011

Ellen Barrett's Power Fusion Review

Shape: Pink Power Flat Abs 5 Ways Review

RAVE: ENELL Sports Bra

Two Belles Giveaway: Christi Taylor's new Totally Cool Step 2 DVD

Blue Apple Giveaway

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Yoga For the New Year: Yoga for Runners & Tibetan Yoga of Movement

Two Belles GIVEAWAY: Scunci, Softlips, Oxy, Stopain, & Ocean

Today's Review: Rhythmica: Dance Cardio Party DVD
Marc Santa Maria, 2011