<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><rss xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:openSearch="http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/" xmlns:blogger="http://schemas.google.com/blogger/2008" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:gd="http://schemas.google.com/g/2005" xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0" version="2.0"><channel><atom:id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543</atom:id><lastBuildDate>Mon, 07 Oct 2024 05:34:59 +0000</lastBuildDate><title>Fitness Starts Here</title><description></description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/</link><managingEditor>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</managingEditor><generator>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>71</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>25</openSearch:itemsPerPage><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-428773317552100984</guid><pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2008 02:22:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-18T22:24:48.111-04:00</atom:updated><title>Say Cheese</title><description>This recipe takes a little longer to prepare so it would be a great dish to serve for a special weekend breakfast or maybe even Easter Brunch.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Cheese Blintzes with Sour Cream and Raspberry Preserves&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This recipe serves: 10&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Ingredients&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3 eggs&lt;br /&gt;2 tablespoon vegetable oil&lt;br /&gt;1 cup skim milk&lt;br /&gt;3/4 cup flour, sifted&lt;br /&gt;1/2 teaspoon salt&lt;br /&gt;1/4 pound light cream cheese&lt;br /&gt;1/4 pound low-fat cottage cheese&lt;br /&gt;2 tablespoon sugar&lt;br /&gt;1 teaspoon vanilla extract&lt;br /&gt;1/2 cup non-fat sour cream&lt;br /&gt;1/2 cup raspberry preserves&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Cooking Instructions&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. In a small bowl, whisk 2 of the eggs, vegetable oil and milk together. Add the flour and salt and stir until the batter is very smooth. Chill for 30 minutes. &lt;br /&gt;2. Spray an 8-inch skillet with nonstick spray. Pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter into the skillet and turn the pan to coat it. Cook until golden brown on one side. Stack crepes on waxed paper, brown side up. Repeat with remaining batter. &lt;br /&gt;3. Beat together the remaining egg, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sugar and vanilla. &lt;br /&gt;4. Fill each crepe with 2 tablespoons of cheese mixture and roll up &quot;egg roll&quot; style by folding in sides of crepe over filling. &lt;br /&gt;5. Heat the skillet and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. Cook until the blintzes are golden brown on all sides. Remove from heat. &lt;br /&gt;6. Serve with sour cream and raspberry preserves&lt;br /&gt;Nutrition Facts&lt;br /&gt;Serving Size 1 blintz with sour cream and raspberry preserves &lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Amount Per Serving&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Calories 164 &lt;br /&gt;Protein 7 g &lt;br /&gt;Total Carbohydrate 20 g &lt;br /&gt;Dietary Fiber 0 g &lt;br /&gt;Soluble Fiber 0 g &lt;br /&gt;Insoluble Fiber 0 g &lt;br /&gt;Sugar 9 g &lt;br /&gt;Total Fat 6 g</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/say-cheese.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-5355610193789866510</guid><pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 01:23:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-17T21:25:46.962-04:00</atom:updated><title>Happy St.Paddy&#39;s Day!!!!</title><description>An Irish Blessing:  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;&quot;May you live a long life&lt;br /&gt;Full of gladness and health,&lt;br /&gt;With a pocket full of gold&lt;br /&gt;As the least of your wealth.&lt;br /&gt;May the dreams you hold dearest,&lt;br /&gt;Be those which come true,&lt;br /&gt;The kindness you spread,&lt;br /&gt;Keep returning to you.&quot;&lt;/em&gt;</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/happy-stpaddys-day.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7019435732508968512</guid><pubDate>Sun, 16 Mar 2008 20:16:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-16T19:56:23.942-04:00</atom:updated><title>Gimme 3 Days</title><description>This is a holiday week, and holidays like Christmas and Easter can play havoc with your schedule. You&#39;re busy with other things; exercise can easily be pushed to the back burner.  &lt;br /&gt;I&#39;m asking that you commit to working out atleast 3 days this week. If it will make it easier, you can even cut the time to whatever is do-able.  If you only have 15 minutes, then do a 15 minute workout. After the holiday is over, and the dust has settled a bit, you&#39;ll be glad that you made the time to keep things on track.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/gimme-3-days.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-8503440876080817463</guid><pubDate>Sun, 16 Mar 2008 19:41:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-16T16:08:03.630-04:00</atom:updated><title>LIFT and SQUEEZE</title><description>This is a great movement to use for the glutes and hamstrings.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Elevated bridges&lt;/strong&gt; - Place your foot on the end of a bench or chair, cross your other leg so your ankle is resting on top of the opposite knee. Lift your body up so only your shoulder blades are on the floor. Hold for 2 seconds, squeeze glutes,lower body then repeat. Start with ten reps per leg.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/lift-and-squeeze.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-8574819664926766462</guid><pubDate>Sun, 16 Mar 2008 14:47:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-16T16:13:38.871-04:00</atom:updated><title>&quot;jump rope&quot; workout</title><description>I&#39;m going to put a cardio element into this circuit.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Start with your usual warm up.  You will start with performing this circuit twice, and work up to 4 circuits total.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some exercises may not look familiar, but I will include a description.  The &quot;rope jumping&quot; will definitely get your heart rate up.  Try to go as long as you can. And, as always, if you feel like you need to rest -- rest!  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you have problems with your knees, you can substitute the jumping for marching in place.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Jump rope &lt;/strong&gt;(or simulate jumping rope) for 30 to 60 seconds&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Single arm dumbbell row&lt;/strong&gt; -  Bend over at the waist, knees slightly bent, hold a dumbbell in one hand place your other arm behind your back.  Hold the weight straight down, then lift until your elbow is higher than your torso.  Perform 15 reps per side.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Bulgarian Split squat&lt;/strong&gt; -  place the top of your foot on a bench or chair.  Step out with the other foot.  You will be in a lunge position.  Keep your torso straight as you lower your body.  Remember to form a straight line from your ankle to your knee. You don&#39;t want your knee to go forward over your toes.  If you have problems with balance, place your hand on the end of a chair or the wall. Perform 10 reps per side.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Jump rope &lt;/strong&gt;(or simulate jumping rope) for 30 to 60 seconds.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Dumbbell chest press&lt;/strong&gt; - can be performed on the floor, stability ball or bench.  Perform 15 reps.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Tricep extension &lt;/strong&gt;- hold weights in your hands so your palms are facing eachother.  bring your elbows up to the side of your head.  The weights will be behind you.  keep your elbows close to your head as you straighten your arms up.  perform 15 reps. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Jump rope&lt;/strong&gt; (or simulate jumping rope) for 30 to 60 seconds&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Side Lunges&lt;/strong&gt; - Begin with your feet together, your back straight.  Step side ways into a lunge, keep the outstretched leg as straight as possible. Bend your stepping leg and sit back slightly on your hips until your knee is bent about 90 degrees, or as far as you feel comfortable. Press back up with your stepping leg and return to the starting position.  Perform 10 reps per side.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Bicep curl &lt;/strong&gt; -  hold a dumbbell with your palms facing away, bend your elbows and curl the weight up. Perform 15 reps total.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Front raises&lt;/strong&gt; - hold a lighter set of dumbbells in front of your legs, palms facing you. Raise dumbbells to shoulder height. lower and repeat. 15 reps &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Jump rope &lt;/strong&gt;(or simulate jumping rope) for 30 to 60 seconds&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Rest 2 minutes and repeat entire circuit</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/jump-rope-workout.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-8926549512767261572</guid><pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2008 02:23:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-13T22:23:04.151-04:00</atom:updated><title>The Beatles - In My Life</title><description>&lt;div xmlns=&#39;http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml&#39;&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;object height=&#39;350&#39; width=&#39;425&#39;&gt;&lt;param value=&#39;http://youtube.com/v/Ym0x3vTw6yc&#39; name=&#39;movie&#39;/&gt;&lt;embed height=&#39;350&#39; width=&#39;425&#39; type=&#39;application/x-shockwave-flash&#39; src=&#39;http://youtube.com/v/Ym0x3vTw6yc&#39;/&gt;&lt;/object&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;No particular reason for this. Just felt like a little Beatles.&lt;br /&gt;Enjoy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/beatles-in-my-life.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7395363990135561773</guid><pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2008 01:27:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-12T21:53:26.761-04:00</atom:updated><title>Minus 100</title><description>Check out this link from Prevention Magazine. It offers some great tips on how to cut 100 calories from your daily diet:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.prevention.com/100calories/&quot;&gt;http://www.prevention.com/100calories/&lt;/a&gt;</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/minus-100.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7590665073075543426</guid><pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:48:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-11T21:03:22.287-04:00</atom:updated><title>Ponder This</title><description>&lt;em&gt;“If we&#39;re growing, we&#39;re always going to be out of our comfort zone.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~John Maxwell&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. To keep our faces toward change and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate is strength undefeatable.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~Helen Keller&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;br /&gt; “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~Helen Keller&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~Albert Einstein&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;“I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not  enough; we must do.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~Leonardo da Vinci&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Being happy doesn&#39;t mean that everything is perfect. It means that you&#39;ve decided to look beyond the imperfections.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~Anonymous &lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;It isn&#39;t what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about.” &lt;/em&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~Dale Carnegie&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;~Maria Robinson</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/ponder-this.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-2461869910879856686</guid><pubDate>Sun, 09 Mar 2008 19:31:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-09T15:52:38.827-04:00</atom:updated><title>Plankity, Plank, Planks</title><description>Ahh...yess...I can hear the groans.  I know how much yinz guys LUVS the planks, so I thought I&#39;d feature a little plank variation this week.  C&#39;mon!!!! Give it a try!!!!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is a Side Plank:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Lie on your side with your left leg on your right leg, and your right elbow in line with your right shoulder.  Keep your back in a straight line, lift your hips and torso, so you are balancing on your forearm and foot. Your body should form a straight line from head to toe.  Hold for as long as you can.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Is this too easy for ya?  If it is, you can increase intensity by lifting the top leg. Hold it up in the air as long as you can.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do 4 holds per side.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/plankity-plank-planks.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7752916978858539860</guid><pubDate>Sun, 09 Mar 2008 19:24:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-09T15:28:46.418-04:00</atom:updated><title>A Few New Moves</title><description>For a slight change of pace, I&#39;m introducing a few exercises we haven&#39;t done in the studio.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Because of the combination exercises, I&#39;m going to suggest that you use a lighter weight while increasing reps. &lt;br /&gt;The rep range will be 15(per side) for the unilateral, and 20 for the remaining exercises.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Chest press w/ bridge lift &lt;/strong&gt; Lie down on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on floor.  Hold a set of dumbbells at chest level with palms facing forward.  Press the weight up. Straighten one leg, so your calf is in line with your knee.  Your rear end will be off of the floor. Lower your body, and switch legs as you press the weight toward the ceiling.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Plank w/ row &lt;/strong&gt; Either on your knees, or on you toes, get into a push up position.  You will have a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing eachother.  Hold this position. Now bend your elbow and pull the weight up so it  so your forearm is parallel with your back. Return the weight to the floor and repeat on the other side.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sumo deadlift&lt;/strong&gt; Your feet will be about three feet apart, with your toes pointing out.  Hold a set of dumbbells out in front of you.  Let the dumbbells hang in front of your body with your palms facing you.  Keep your back straight and head up.  Lower the dumbbells to the floor until your thighs are parallel with the floor.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Pulse lunges &lt;/strong&gt; Put one foot out in front of you. Step back with the other foot into a lunge position.  Keeping your feet in this position, raise your torso about halfway then lower.  Use a faster (pulse) pace.  Perform all reps on one side before moving on to the other side.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Side rows &lt;/strong&gt; Hold the dumbbells down to your sides, palms facing your body.  Pull the weight along your body, elbows out.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Hi bicep curls use a lighter weight &lt;/strong&gt; Hold the weights up,arms are straight, palms facing the ceiling, your forearms will be parallel with the floor. Keep your arms in this position as you curl the weight.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Shoulder press w tricep extension &lt;/strong&gt;  Hold  a set of dumbbells at shoulder height with palms facing your ears.  Press the weight straight up.  Hold the weight there, now bend your elbows to lower the weight toward your back.  Return to overhead position, lower weight and repeat.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/few-new-moves.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-4264855492454872800</guid><pubDate>Sun, 09 Mar 2008 19:06:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-09T16:01:38.878-04:00</atom:updated><title>How&#39;s about a little inspiration?</title><description>1980 Ms.Olympia - Rachel McLish &lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYPneAQaDpoTgkqz3P0ljc8b6e2KZPWj1t1cZrkgGht4sHjHfxtXxovzYs8krsexGXxSPNlHiz3isB2_M5W2MVX7m7NonPEQkv_D6rOhsNZOhvy_YIHITZuv7SECJFR3AXBPh_xbJechm/s1600-h/Rachel_McLish_61_jpg.jpg&quot;&gt;&lt;img style=&quot;float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYPneAQaDpoTgkqz3P0ljc8b6e2KZPWj1t1cZrkgGht4sHjHfxtXxovzYs8krsexGXxSPNlHiz3isB2_M5W2MVX7m7NonPEQkv_D6rOhsNZOhvy_YIHITZuv7SECJFR3AXBPh_xbJechm/s400/Rachel_McLish_61_jpg.jpg&quot; border=&quot;0&quot; alt=&quot;&quot;id=&quot;BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175821609973427570&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Last week I wrote about using &quot;before&quot; pictures to help motivate, but I&#39;d also like to suggest a few other ways to keep you focused.  Visualization -- picture how you want to look. Imagine how you will look in a certain outfit such as a bathing suit,a pair of jeans,or even a wedding dress. Keep this image in your head. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Inspiration can also come from other people. If you read any magazines, I&#39;m sure you&#39;ve seen women that make you say &quot; I want to look like her.&quot;  Take these pictures and put them in a strategic spot -- maybe by the treadmill, or even place one on the refrigerator.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I used this when I first started lifting weights.  My inspiration was Rachel McLish.  In case you don&#39;t know, Rachel McLish was the first female bodybuilder to win &quot;the Olympia&quot; ( It&#39;s the most prestigious title in bodybuilding)  She WAS female bodybuilding until it somehow went haywire.  Her picture still remains in my exercise room. She helped me push out at least one more rep many times. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This may sound like a silly idea, but who cares if it works for you.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/hows-about-little-inspiration.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYPneAQaDpoTgkqz3P0ljc8b6e2KZPWj1t1cZrkgGht4sHjHfxtXxovzYs8krsexGXxSPNlHiz3isB2_M5W2MVX7m7NonPEQkv_D6rOhsNZOhvy_YIHITZuv7SECJFR3AXBPh_xbJechm/s72-c/Rachel_McLish_61_jpg.jpg" height="72" width="72"/></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7894361583016222420</guid><pubDate>Sun, 02 Mar 2008 16:44:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-02T11:53:16.985-05:00</atom:updated><title>The One Sided Workout</title><description>The recommended workout for this week will feature all unilateral exercises. You will perform each exercise for a specific number of reps by either alternating from one side to the other side, or by doing all reps, before moving to the other side.  Are you asking yourself &quot;umm…why?&quot;  Well, I&#39;ll tell ya...&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A great way to shake up your weight training is to train unilaterally.  Basically, what this means is that you perform the specific exercise by working one side of the body at a time.    Most people have  one side that is weaker than the other, and by training unilaterally, the stronger side can&#39;t pick up the slack for the weaker side; it&#39;s forced to become stronger.  It also allows for greater focus on the contracting muscle; it improves the mind/muscle connection.   In other words, it may be easier to think about squeezing and releasing just the left bicep during a curl.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;15 reps per side. 1-3 circuits.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Chest press - alternate reps &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bent over rows - perform all reps per each side&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One leg wall squat- perform all reps per each side&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Shoulder press- alternate reps&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One leg bridge- with leg on bench&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bicep curl - can be performed either alternating or all reps per side.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Tricep kickbacks - all reps per side.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/recommended-workout-for-this-week-will.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-4480243357706278258</guid><pubDate>Sun, 02 Mar 2008 15:42:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-03-02T10:44:18.903-05:00</atom:updated><title>Crunch this</title><description>If you are bored with crunches, and you want to shake up the abs, give this exercise a try.  It&#39;s called an exercise ball pull-in; so, obviously you&#39;ll need an exercise ball to do it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here&#39;s the set up:  get into push up position with the front of your legs and feet resting on an exercise ball. Keep your body parallel with the floor.  Your abs should be nice and tight so your back doesn&#39;t sway.  Roll the ball toward your upper body by bending your knees and crunching your abs.  Keep your midsection stable.  Pause for a count before rolling the ball back to the start position.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/03/crunch-this.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7795504982460396629</guid><pubDate>Sat, 01 Mar 2008 02:04:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-29T21:15:06.242-05:00</atom:updated><title>Tracking Progress</title><description>&lt;em&gt;&quot;Hello, it&#39;s very nice meeting you.  I look forward to being your partner on this fitness journey; now take off your clothes so I can take your picture.&quot;&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sounds a little bold, huh? When I first meet a person, they are usually a little nervous so I don&#39;t insist on taking before pictures, but I highly recommend it to anyone who is in the process of losing weight.  Not only is it a great motivator, but it&#39;s an excellent way to track progress.  Sometime, you may look in the mirror and think &quot; I don&#39;t see a difference&quot;, but if you look at side by side photos, it might tell a different story.  Personally, this helped me quite a bit because I was willing to do whatever I had to to change the way I looked in the before picture -- definitely my motivator.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here&#39;s what you do; put on a bathing suit or some clothing that shows your body, and then have someone take a picture of the front, back and side every 2-3 weeks. (If you want, I&#39;ll take your picture)&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are in need of motivation, give this a try.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/tracking-progress.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-5454036739846904564</guid><pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:37:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-29T21:04:50.587-05:00</atom:updated><title>Fat Does a Body Good</title><description>Yep, your eyes aren&#39;t deceiving you. Fat does the body good.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Of course, I&#39;m talking about the good fats-- the Omega 3&#39;s--not the artery clogging trans fats.   You need fat to help your body absorb fat soluble vitamins, keep your energy levels up, help you feel full, and to provide the body with essential fatty acids it can&#39;t produce on its own.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, a common mistake some people trying to lose weight make, is to cut just about all fat out of their diet.  Don&#39;t do that.  Sure, their logic may be &quot;If I don&#39;t eat fat, I won&#39;t get fat--I&#39;ll be skinny in no time, fo sho&#39;!&quot; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But, in reality, you may be sabotoging yourself.  If your body isn&#39;t receiving the proper amount of essential oils, it will retain all the fat it needs.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here&#39;s another interesting fact about fat; not only does the BODY need fat, so does the BRAIN. A recent study has shown that 6 out of 10 people suffering from depression, got relief from taking fish oil (omega 3) supplements.  It appears that omega 3&#39;s help the brain use Seratonin, the chemical that helps lift our mood.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A great way to ensure that you are receiving enough Omega 3 in your diet is to eat fatty fish like salmon several times a week.  If this is not practical, another option may be to take a dietary supplement.  It&#39;s recommended that people take approximately 2000 mg a day.    However, if you are on anticoagulants, have a bleeding disorder, uncontrollable hypertension, or a weakened immune system, you should check with your doctor first.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I&#39;m not big on recommending supplements, but I feel the benefits of Omega 3 warrants it. Try it for yourself -- think about taking 500mg three times a day with a meal,and see how you feel.  Also, take a multivitamin to help replenish any vitamins your diet may be lacking --this is really all you need.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/fat-does-body-good.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7738303512868232291</guid><pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2008 18:00:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-26T13:14:58.220-05:00</atom:updated><title>Stuff It</title><description>Here&#39;s another way to jazz up your standard chicken breast. It&#39;s loaded with protein, so add a nice salad, or some fresh veggies, and you have a nutritious dinner.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Chicken Roll Ups&lt;/strong&gt; - serves 4&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Ingredients:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, 4oz each.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1tsp. Mrs. Dash or other salt free seasonings&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4 slices fat-free Swiss cheese&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4 slices low fat ham&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1/2 cup bread crumbs&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nonstick cooking spray&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Instructions:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Preheat oven to 350 degrees and coat an 8 x10 baking dish with cooking spray.  Pound chicken breast to 1/4 inch thickness and sprinkle both sides with seasoning.  Place one slice of cheese, and one slice of ham on each breast.  Roll up each breast and secure with toothpicks.  Place chicken in baking dish, seam side down, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink inside.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;Nutrition facts per serving:  362 calories, 53g protein, 15g carbs, 10g fat.&lt;/em&gt;</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/stuff-it.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-5624983989417582564</guid><pubDate>Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:58:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-25T12:02:06.961-05:00</atom:updated><title>Focus</title><description>As I&#39;ve stated many times, one of the best ways to focus on losing weight and/or getting   healthy is to set a goal. So, I&#39;ve decided to take a little of my own advice. I&#39;m presenting myself with a challenge, and I&#39;ll need to step up. It&#39;s going to be a 12 week goal, and if you&#39;re interested, I&#39;d like to invite you to share it with me.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A local hospital is sponsoring a 5k (3.1 mile) run/walk in the middle of May, and I&#39;m going to  sign up.  I figure it will help shift my thinking away from how miserable winter is, and concentrate on SUMMER. Oh yeah, and it will also get me back on the cardio wagon. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*confession time*  I gotta admit, for the last couple of months,  I&#39;ve become a bit of a &quot;slacker&quot; when it comes to cardio. There always seems to be a good excuse to put it off -- sound familiar? ;) This goal will help me stay on track. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you&#39;d like to join me, either as a walker or runner, I&#39;d be more than happy to help you  prepare. We can work it into your existing program, or we can create a new one.&lt;br /&gt;  As a walker, you&#39;ll be able to get in a good workout while enjoying the fresh spring air.   As a runner, a 5k is a great race for a novice -- it&#39;s a little over 3 miles, however, there are a few hills in this one, but it&#39;s still very do-able with training. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Give it some thought, I&#39;d love to have you there. It&#39;s on May 17th, so we&#39;ll have plenty of time to prepare with a little under 12 weeks.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you have any questions, just ask.  Also, I have entry forms at the studio.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/focus.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-10875863674706371</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Feb 2008 14:52:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-24T10:29:49.173-05:00</atom:updated><title>Kickin&#39; It Up A Notch</title><description>This workout can be adjusted according to your skill level -- beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Try it at your particular level, and when it feels too easy, raise the intensity, and try the next level. It works by incorporating an aerobic element that keeps the heart rate elevated.&lt;br /&gt;You will alternate between a resistance exercise and a choice of jumping rope, burpees, jumping jacks, squat jumps, jogging in place, toe touches, or marching in place that you will perform for one minute.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you have any problems with your knees, I would suggest staying with jogging in place, toe touches and marching in place.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; Since it is performed as a circuit there is little or no rest between exercises, however, if you need to, rest! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;List of Aerobic elements&lt;/strong&gt;:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Advanced&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Burpees - squat down and place your hands on the floor, on either side of your feet.  kick your legs out behind you.  You&#39;ll be in push up position. Pull your feet back up to your hands, now jump up with your arms over your head. You can add a push up to increase intensity.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Jumping rope - Jumping rope is a great way to get the heart pumping in a very short amount of time. You don&#39;t even need a rope to do it.  Hold your arms to your sides, rotate your wrists like you would if you were throwing the rope over your head, jump up using small steps, like you would to jump over the rope. Keep your body straight, and bend your knees slightly when you touch the floor.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Squat jumps - feet are shoulder width apart, squat down to a 1/2 squat position.  Now jump up and bring your hands over your head like you are reaching for the ceiling.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Intermediate&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Jumping jacks - just like the ones from grade school.&lt;br /&gt;Jogging in place&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Beginner&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Toe touches - Step to the right with your right foot, bring your left foot over to meet it. Then quickly step to the left, and bring your right foot to meet it. Pick up the pace and repeat.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Marching in place&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Whatever aerobic element you choose, the idea is to get your heart rate up. Put some intensity into it -- don&#39;t phone it in!!!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The Circuit:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Repeat this circuit 1-3 times (15reps)&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Warm up first!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One arm dumbbell rows&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do Aerobic element for one minute&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Push ups&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Aerobic element for one minute&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bicep curl w/shoulder press&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Aerobic element for one minute&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Tricep dip on bench&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Aerobic element for one minute&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sumo squats &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Aerobic element for one minute</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/kickin-it-up-notch.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-2441287369843524223</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-24T21:09:39.420-05:00</atom:updated><title>Let&#39;s Hear it for Wall Slides--this week&#39;s featured exercise</title><description>This is a great exercise that focuses on the quads, or front of the legs.  It&#39;s also rather gentle on the knees.  I would recommend starting with 5 complete reps. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Lean back against a wall, feet are shoulder width apart, your knees are bent and your thighs are less than parallel to the floor.  Hold this position for 10 seconds.  Keep your back against the wall and lower your body. Feet are flat on the floor.  Hold this position for 10 seconds --to make it more difficult, don&#39;t start the clock until you start feeling a burn.  Lower again, and start counting. Don&#39;t go past 90 degrees.  One more thing -- KEEP YOUR HANDS OFF OF YOUR LEGS!! That&#39;s cheating ;)</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/lets-hear-it-for-wall-slides-this-weeks.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-7270588120036271995</guid><pubDate>Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:55:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-22T22:23:37.847-05:00</atom:updated><title>Exercise Your Brain!!!</title><description>You&#39;re exercising everything else -- don&#39;t neglect your brain!!!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Keep it sharp with this link from prevention magazine.  It features some great games to help improve memory and focus -- and, heaven knows, we can all use some of that -- okay, maybe I&#39;m just speaking for myself :P&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.prevention.com/cda/categorypage.do?channel=health&amp;category=brain.fitness&amp;topic=brain.games&quot;&gt;www.prevention.com/cda/categorypage.do?channel=health&amp;category=brain.fitness&amp;topic=brain.games&lt;/a&gt;</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/exercise-your-brain.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-5045026593659643052</guid><pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2008 01:19:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-20T20:23:53.773-05:00</atom:updated><title>You Gotta Frittata</title><description>Spinach, Tomato, and Cheese Frittata&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I practically live on eggs.  They are low in fat -- especially when you discard most of the yolk, and loaded with protein and nutrients.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here&#39;s a great recipe for a spinach tomato and cheese frittata.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; In case you don&#39;t know, a frittata is similar to an omelet except it is baked in the oven, and it&#39;s open-faced instead of folded. You can get creative and replace the spinach and tomato for onions and mushrooms or even reduced calorie ham.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Ingredients:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5 egg whites&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1 whole egg&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1 pinch of pepper&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1/2 cup of spinach leaves&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1 ripe tomato, diced&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar ( you can substitute other cheeses)&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nonstick cooking spray&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Preheat oven to 300 degrees.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In a medium bowl, whisk egg whites, whole egg, and pepper.  On stove, preheat small  nonstick skillet over medium heat.  Coat with nonstick spray and wrap handle with foil to  avoid heat damage from oven.  Add spinach and tomatoes, and cook until spinach is wilted.   Remove pan from heat.  Pour egg mixture over veggies, sprinkle with cheese and place in  oven.  Bake 10-15 minutes or until center I cooked.  Serve immediately or refrigerate in an  airtight container.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nutrition facts per serving: makes 2&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;151 calories, 16g protein, 5g carbs, 7g fat, 1g fiber.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/you-gotta-frittata.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-4258321087391058441</guid><pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:02:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-19T09:07:10.638-05:00</atom:updated><title>Suck It In</title><description>Here are a few &quot;extra credit&quot; exercises that you can use for your midsection,  and you don&#39;t have to get down on the floor to  do them.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This first exercise is very versatile and can be done just about anywhere! It can be done  seated, standing or even lying down. It works by using an isometric contraction -- which  means you tense the muscle without moving it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So, let&#39;s say you&#39;re seated at your desk.  What you would do is sit up straight, exhale all the  air out of your lungs, and then pull your stomach in as much as you can. Think about pulling  your bellybutton to your spine.  Hold it for about 8 seconds, and release.  Start with 10 reps.    As you progress, you can add more reps, and/or try and hold the contraction longer. This  exercise is called a stomach vacuum, and bodybuilders love it--some claim that it can take  inches off of the waist.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The next set of exercises, can also be done at your desk.  This is what you do.&lt;br /&gt;While seated,  keep your back straight, arms at sides, hands gripping the bottom of the chair, feet flat on the floor, knees bent and over toes, legs pressed together. Lift your knees straight up, keeping the bottom of your feet parallel to the ground. Exhale while you lift your knees and inhale as you bring your feet back down to the floor. Complete 1 set of 10-12 repetitions. For extra workout points, keep your back off the backrest and do not lean heavily on your arms.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You can also use the this chair crunch to work your obliques ( the side of your abs).  Put your hands on your head, elbows out to the side.  Raise your knee up and twist your body so the opposite elbow touches the opposite knee.  Repeat with the other side. Start with 5 per side.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/suck-it-in.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-3734932379003520742</guid><pubDate>Mon, 18 Feb 2008 18:34:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-18T13:36:44.521-05:00</atom:updated><title>It Pays to have Friends</title><description>This is a reminder to my clients that if you refer a friend, and they purchase a package of ten or more 1-hour sessions, you will receive &lt;strong&gt;$50&lt;/strong&gt;!!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If they purchase a package of 10 or more 30-minute sessions, you will receive &lt;strong&gt;$25&lt;/strong&gt;!!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So, if you happen to know someone who may be interested in getting into shape, it wouldn&#39;t hurt to mention Starting Point.  I&#39;d be more than happy to help them, and, also, it could mean some extra cash for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Just be sure to have them mention that you sent them.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/it-pays-to-have-friends.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-8204027221494000541</guid><pubDate>Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:41:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-17T18:09:42.265-05:00</atom:updated><title>This Week&#39;s At-Home Workout</title><description>Here&#39;s this week&#39;s at home workout. Remember to start by warming up.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;15 reps per exercise.  15 reps per side for the unilateral exercises.  Complete 2-3 circuits.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Chest flyes&lt;/strong&gt; - on a bench or stability ball, hold dumbbells out to your sides, palms facing up, elbows slightly bent bring palms together over your chest.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;One arm rows&lt;/strong&gt; - support yourself on a stability ball or bench.  Your back is straight and parallel to the floor, head up. Hold the dumbbell straight down to the side.  Pull the weight up so your elbow is slightly higher than your back.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One leg wall squats &lt;/strong&gt;- against a wall, put a stability ball in the small of your back.  Your feet are out in front of you.  Raise one leg off the floor, and then lower into a squat.  Keep the raised foot off the floor.  If you can place a chair next to you to help with balance.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Bent over lateral raises &lt;/strong&gt;-  seated on the end of a bench or stability ball, hold a set of lighter dumbbells, bend so your chest is almost touching your thighs.  With your palm facing down, raise weights to no higher than your shoulder &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Elevated bridges &lt;/strong&gt;- place your foot on the end of a bench or chair, cross your other leg with your ankle resting by your opposite knee.  Lift your body up so only your shoulder blades are on the floor. Hold for 2 seconds, squeeze glutes,lower body then repeat.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Concentration curls&lt;/strong&gt; - seated on a bench or ball.  Hold a dumbbell in one hand, place elbow on the outside of your knee, you are bent over slightly but contract your abs to keep back straight.  Raise dumbbell, when you reach the top, your pinky finger will be facing toward your neck.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Dips&lt;/strong&gt; - place your palms on the end of a bench or chair.  Your feet are out in front of you, to make the move less difficult, keep your knees bent. Lower your body so your upper arm is parallel with the floor.  Push yourself up so your arms are straight.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/this-weeks-at-home-workout.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664809030260299543.post-993877595951414484</guid><pubDate>Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:14:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-17T15:47:17.824-05:00</atom:updated><title>Got any Suggestions?</title><description>I plan on offering group fitness classes in the summer, and I would like to hear your suggestions.  If you would be interested in trying any particular type of class like zumba, or classes that focus on specific muscle groups like abs, please feel free to mention it.</description><link>http://startingpointfitness.blogspot.com/2008/02/got-any-suggestions.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)</author></item></channel></rss>