I have also really been working on running more. I’m registered to run a 5k this Saturday, 5/18, Gaspee Days 5k June 8th, CVS Caremark 5k in September, and my first 1/2 MARATHON in October!!

I have actually been falling in love with running which is really weird because there was a time you couldn’t pay me to run. I’m not as fast as last year, but I’m running FARTHER each time I venture out and I’m ok with that. Here was my fave run from this past week….

I was also lucky enough to celebrate Mother’s Day yesterday! I spent the afternoon with my Mother in Law, My Precious Son Zac, and my Hubby Ryan. We had lunch and played games at Dave & Buster’s then Zac and I aproned up and spent the afternoon baking cookies!

I hope each of you had a fabulous weekend and you were able to get out and get active!!!

Be sure to head on over and “Like” Girl Gone Healthy on Facebook!! When I reach 3,000 likes I’m going to be doing a HUGE giveaway and you don’t want to miss out!

Also, this week I will be reviewing several products that you will have a chance to win! Like a Kettlebell from Empower Fitness, KCups from Green Mountain, and Skinny Noodles!!

Healthy Wishes, T

The fact that I’m able to flip a 240 pound tire numerous times and pull 225 pounds down and back is CRAZY! I have always known that I was strong but now I’m finding that the strength that’s always been there needs to be honed and cultivated.

This is the first time in my entire journey that I’m not obsessing about the scale….. in fact I haven’t weighed myself in over a week. My jeans are tight, but not in my waist-which is a first, but in my legs and my butt, I can feel my waist narrowing and when I flex I got GUNS! Better Bodies has changed the way I think, the way I feel, the way I eat, and the way I work out. If you’re ready to change your frame of my mind and ready to learn how to FUNCTION then make the call! Contact Cathy@betterbodiesri.com and get in on the 21 Day Challenge!

Whether it’s pushing, pulling, or towing you can bet it’s gonna work!

Healthy Wishes, T

This test is given by Cathy Epstein, Owner and Head Trainer at Better Bodies RI, to each client in order to ensure each workout is done safely and it also tells her just how hard she can push you. (You didn’t think it was all nice now did you? )

You must complete 7 exercises and each exercise is scored 0-3. Your final score determines what type of work outs you’re capable of completing and are able to handle….. I of course scored within a range that tells Cathy she can pretty much push to the maximum…. Great LOL. The most amazing thing about this test was that I was tested alongside another female who probably has a good 3 inches on me and is the size of my thigh. I thought for sure our scores would be wayyyyy different seeing as how we LOOK so different, but we scored EXACTLY the same. This test has nothing to do with height, weight, or number of reps it’s simply about finding out how our bodies move and what they can handle.

Here’s a little more info!

The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is the product of an exercise philosophy known as Functional Movement Systems. This exercise philosophy and corresponding set of resources is based on sound science, years of innovation, and current research.

How it Works: Simplify Movement

Put simply, the FMS is a ranking and grading system that documents movement patterns that are key to normal function. By screening these patterns, the FMS readily identifies functional limitations and asymmetries. These are issues that can reduce the effects of functional training and physical conditioning and distort body awareness.

The FMS generates the Functional Movement Screen Score, which is used to target problems and track progress. This scoring system is directly linked to the most beneficial corrective exercises to restore mechanically sound movement patterns.

Exercise professionals monitor the FMS score to track progress and to identify those exercises that will be most effective to restore proper movement and build strength in each individual.

What it Does: Widespread Benefits

The FMS simplifies the concept of movement and its impact on the body. Its streamlined system has benefits for everyone involved – individuals, exercise professionals, and physicians.

Communication – The FMS utilizes simple language, making it easy for individuals, exercise professionals, and physicians to communicate clearly about progress and treatment.

Evaluation – The screen effortlessly identifies asymmetries and limitations, diminishing the need for extensive testing and analysis.

Standardization – The FMS creates a functional baseline to mark progress and provides a means to measure performance.

Safety – The FMS quickly identifies dangerous movement patterns so that they can be addressed. It also indicates an individual’s readiness to perform exercise so that realistic goals can be set and achieved.

Corrective Strategies – The FMS can be applied at any fitness level, simplifying corrective strategies of a wide array of movement issues. It identifies specific exercises based on individual FMS scores to instantly create customized treatment plans.

If you’d like more info on the FMS Test please don’t hesitate in contacting Cathy at Better Bodies RI (401) 474-0667!  And while you’re at it sign up for the 21 Day Challenge for only $1 a day!

Healthy Wishes, T

Oddly enough the exercises that I thought I would dominate were actually not so great and the ones that I thought I would suck at, I.E. burpees, I surprised myself with. One thing is for sure you’re never finished with your journey. Just because you lose a certain amount of pounds or reach a goal doesn’t mean you’re finished or at your peak fitness level. I basically crawled to my car after class on Saturday and I’m pretty sure my right calf is so sore that it’s going to hurt for the rest of my life, but that test made me realize that I have to KEEP GOING.  I can’t stop, I can’t be satisfied, I have to beat those numbers the next time the Fit Test is given, I have to make the scale move in the RIGHT Direction, I have to finish that Fit Test and say “What’s Next?” I’m worth it, the soreness is worth it, and the results I will gain are TOTALLY WORTH IT.

You can find out more about Better Bodies RI by visiting their website and checking them out on Facebook! Owner, and Head Trainer, Cathy Epstein will take the time to answer any questions you have and set you up with a Program that’s right for YOU and YOUR needs. I encourage you to spend $1 a day and join the 21 Day Challenge, you won’t be sorry!

Healthy Wishes, T

Kettle bell training develops all-purpose strength to easily handle the toughest and most unexpected demand. Maximizes staying power, because the last round decides all. Blends strength and flexibility. Burns body fat like no other workout. A one hour workout can burn as much as 1500 calories. Using Kettle bells as a tool in your fitness program will help to lower your heart rate and blood pressure, achieve a balanced development of all muscle groups and will work more than just the linear plane which will help promote an injury free body in the future.

I honestly thought Kettle Bell class was just going to be a typical weight lifting/circuit class…… WRONG!!!! It’s H-E-L-L with a round weighted bell of death LOL….. but I LOVED it!! And in fact I can’t wait to do it again!!!

Kettle Bell training at Better Bodies, much like every other class, is very different. You are not permitted to take a KB class that is on the schedule until you complete a Proper Form Workshop with a Certified Kettle Bell Trainer. Why is that you ask? Well that little round bell of death could hurt you and it is Head Trainer and BB Owner Cathy’s top priority to ensure you working out safely and correctly.

“If you tweak something or puke or push yourself beyond your limits… I’ve lost you. You don’t enjoy the work out and you’ll give up.” -Cathy Epstein, Owner Better Bodies RI

Better Bodies says they aren’t a “typical gym” and if you turn on your TV or radio you’ll hear about 9 gazillion other gyms sporting the same line. Well I have been to said 9 gazillion other gyms and Better Bodies is LEGIT. When they say Functional Fitness and overall total body workout you bet your buns that’s what you’re getting!

You still have the opportunity to take advantage of the 21 Day Challenge, I urge you local Rhode Island readers to contact Cathy and get further details. Tell them Girl Gone Healthy sent ya .

Healthy Wishes, T

But Kick Boxing at Better Bodies is a whole new ball game. It’s non stop circuits everyone is wearing gloves and everyone gets a chance to do pad work with Owner and Head Trainer Cathy.

This 1 hour class is appropriate for ALL levels of fitness as Cathy modifies movements to each person. You may be in class with 10 other people but Cathy is sure to make YOU feel like you’re #1.

If you haven’t already I encourage you to stop by Better Bodies website and give them a Like on Facebook. Class schedules are posted there along with details for the Revolutionary 21 Day Challenge!!

Healthy Wishes,

T

I dove head first into Day 1 at BBFF (Better Bodies Functional Fitness) and my body is still reminding me 2 days later…..which is AWESOME! For a long while now I have wanted to start really increasing my strength and learn how to lift heavier. No I don’t want to be a body builder or strongman I just want to be tight. toned, and wicked strong! One of my goals was to flip a huge tire…. you know the ones you see on TV or in the “scary” part of the gym, and I shared this with Cathy, BBFF Owner, and she said let’s do it. I honestly didn’t think I would be flipping a 240 pound tire on my first day…… but I did!

I flipped that bad boy 12 times total!!! Once Cathy made me realize that if I dug deep I could do whatever I put my mind to I was hooked! And the ENTIRE gym has the same mentality, to succeed, to reach your ultimate goal, to NEVER STOP until it’s YOUR 100%. But we didn’t just flip tires all afternoon…..

Circuit after circuit I felt better, faster, stronger and so proud of myself for working out in a way I didn’t know I could. From running and ropes, to burpees and planks….we hit every body part multiple times.

Now onto my winners!!!

It was so hard to choose but the 3 very lucky ladies who will be receiving the 21 Day Challenge from Better Bodies RI & Girl Gone Healthy are:

Lisa- Melissa-Jennifer!!!! CONGRATS!!! Be watching for an email to come to your inbox ASAP!

These ladies have won:

Congrats and Thank You to everyone who entered!!

Healthy Wishes, T

Better Bodies is a new gym located in Cranston, RI that has been developed around the concept of Functional Fitness. “Functional Fitness” and “Functional Exercise” may be the latest buzzwords in the gym these days, but it’s with good reason.  More than just a passing fad, this new approach changes the way the industry views physical fitness and training.  Different from conventional methods, functional fitness is based on training the body to handle the physical demands required by our jobs and our lives—so that one builds a body capable of doing real-life activities in real-life situations.

While members of a traditionally oriented gym may be toned and ready for the beach— they might not be able to lift their toddler out of his car seat of hoist the spring-water bottle onto its dispenser without risking injury. That’s because a body’s muscles need to learn to work together in integration, not in isolation. Unlike traditional gyms, Better Bodies, Functional Fitness (BBFF) uses a combination of training styles and equipment to train members to use their own body weight to strengthen and build cardio capacity while reaching their goals. 

Training is delivered in 3-settings: one-on-one, group training and classes. Cathy Epstein, who has earned a very strong reputation in the industry and has a very loyal following, leads BBFF.

I have the pleasure of GIVING AWAY 3 FREE 21 Day Challenge Memberships to 3 very lucky local readers!! This 21 Day Challenge is designed to jump start you on your way to reaching your goals in a HEALTHY and FUNCTIONAL way.

{Click on the link above for details.}

But how do you win?! SIMPLE!

In the comment section below:

-Tell me why YOU need a 21 Day Challenge jump start.

-Like Better Bodies on Facebook

-Like GirlGoneHealthy on Facebook

-Promote this Post on Facebook tagging both GirlGoneHealthy and Better Bodies

Winners will be chosen by Wednesday 4/10/13 and notified on how to begin their Challenge ASAP! Good Luck!!

Healthy Wishes, Tera

Saturday, April 6:

Princess Visit 10 – 11:30am

RI Blood Bank Bone Marrow Registry Drive 10am – 1pm

Former Patriots Vernon Crawford 11 – 1pm

Special surprise guest 12 – 4pm

Roger Williams Park ZooMobile 12 – 2pm

Sunday, April 7:

Yard sale 7am – 1pm

Former Patriots Jim Bowman and Roland James 11am – 1pm

Providence BYOI Improv Group 2 – 4pm

Alayne White Spa, hand and neck massages, 2 – 6pm

All weekend:

Raffle – enter to win the GRAND PRIZE of La-Z-Boy’s newest and best recliner, along with several other fantastic prizes.

Bake sale for a donation

Children’s movies and popcorn in the store

Kids craft area, Saturday 9 – 9pm and Sunday 9 – 4pm

Face painting, Saturday 9 – 6pm and Sunday 9 – 4pm

Hot dog sales for a donation, Saturday 11 – 7pm and Sunday 11 – 5pm

Balloon releases for Belle, $1, write a note of good wishes for Belle

There will be additional parking at the Kent County Courthouse garage all weekend, so we can really pack ‘em in!! Come out and help us celebrate and support this beautiful little girl!!

What a fantastic weekend! Hope to see you all there!!

Healthy Wishes, T

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What a fab company, and thanks to Fitfluential and the amazing peeps at Diet-to-Go I was able to try a week’s worth of these diet meals! I received 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners…. the lunches and dinners were my faves. I chose the low carb option so I was able to try yummy stuffed chicken, veal, Cajun salmon and lot’s of veggies! Here’s a little peek:

If you’re interested in trying Diet-to-Go visit diettogo.com and enter coupon code fitfluential at check out to save 20%!!

*****FitFluential LLC compensated me for this Campaign. All opinions are my own.*****

Healthy Wishes, T