Review: Suzanne Bowen's BarreAmped

BarreAmped Featuring Suzanne Bowen

Suzanne Bowen, 2014

This dvd contains five 9-19 minute routines, and a 3 min warmup. You can play all or select a workout from the menu. You will need light dumbbells and a chair (or barre). Suzanne works out in a lovely brick set w/ 2 backgrounders, one offering modifications.

Light Weight Work: (9 min) This workout focuses on the upper body. Exercises include front & side raises & circles, rotator cuff, bi curls, T raise series, and tri kickbacks & circles. Suzanne recommends 1-3 pound weights. 

Thigh Work: (14 min) Exercises include a pliet series, standing leg raises, squat pulses, hip circles, hip shifts, close stance pliet series, and includes stretches.

Seat Work:  (19 min) Exercises include rear leg lifts variations, single leg balance work, standing donkey kicks, pretzel, lying leg circles, & lying leg lifts.

Mat Work: (16 min) This workout targets the upper body & core. Exercises include plank, knee pushups series, plank hip drops, side plank reaches, tri dips, supine core series, superman & a stretch.

Stretch: (13 min) Exercises for this upper body routine include front & side raises and circles, rotator cuff work, bi curls, T raise series, tri kickbacks & circles. Suzanne suggests 1-3 pound weights.

I rate these intermediate routines, I definitely felt the burn in the lower body portions. Suzanne offers impeccable form pointers and I really like her instruction style. Her instruction segments provide some breaks in the routine. Great barre routine for barre junkies and for those of us newer to barre as well. I received this dvd to review. 

For More Information, Visit:

Suzanne Bowen on the web

Suzanne Bowen Fitness on Facebook

Follow Suzanne Bowen on Twitter

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

BackJoy Posture Plus Presents Posture Pledge!

In celebration of National Correct Posture Month, choose one of the ten simple actions listed on BackJoy's Posture Pledge Facebook page. From improving how you sit at work to incorporating core exercise muscles into your workout routine, no action is too small! Throughout the month of May, BackJoy is celebrating the many benefits of great posture by rewarding those who commit to improving their own posture. The first 500 people who participate in the #PosturePledge celebration will receive a FREE SitSmart Posture Plus ($40.00 retail value), BackJoy's signature product that automatically tilts, cups and floats the pelvis upright to engage core muscles and help you find your most balanced and comfortable posture!

Prevent back pain & sit with comfort all day on any chair - soft or hard. BackJoy Posture+ is not a simple cushion. It is based on revolutionary science! BackJoy uses its Applied Postural Science to correct your posture. You know you are supposed to sit better, but it’s hard. Posture+ does it for you creating a natural cradle for your pelvis by tilting it upright and supporting your bottom. Advanced Core Materials™. Give your body the support it needs anywhere you sit.

BackJoy engages your core muscles and maintains your posture while you sit. For the first time, your core muscles will be engaged while you sit. The muscles that hold your spine erect can work the way they are supposed to (like when you stand). You feel more comfortable and refreshed after sitting for long periods of time.

Be sure to head over and you can receive a FREE SitSmart Posture Plus if you are among the fist 500 to pledge and all will be entered to win a fabulous grand prize. 

BackJoy will be keeping posture and the #PosturePledge conversation going all month. In addition to regular blog & Facebook posts, they are hosting a fun & informative Twitter chat about improving/maintaining great posture on May 13th from 1-2pm MDT (@BackJoy / #GYAOchat)-  and we'd love to have you participate.

Now available at CVS stores & Staples Stores- you can find one near by. I know my dad would appreciate this gift. Whats better than a gift of health? Head over to a CVS or Staples now & find one for everyone on your holiday gift list. Available in seven different colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, pink & black. 

For More Information, Visit:

BackJoy on the web

BackJoy on Facebook

BackJoy on Twitter

BackJoy on PinterestBackJoy on YouTube

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

RAVE & REVIEW: lucy Hatha Capri Leggings

lucy activewear: Workout Clothes with your Whole Life in Mind

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to work with a well-known and wonderful fitness apparel company: lucy activewear! They offer a huge selection of flattering workout wear for yoga, running, training, travel and exploring the outdoors. They also offer FREE shipping on any order! They have so many cute, flattering, and practical styles in all their activewear. With so much to choose from including exercise crop pants, yoga pants, exercise tanks and sports bras, and locations throughout the U.S., you are bound to find the best fitness wear at a great price. I had the pleasure of reviewing their Hatha Capri 
Legging that is currently on sale for ONLY $19.99! 

I wore my awesome new lucy Hatha Capri Leggings in my last 5k and they fit great and were super comfy. As you can see, I looked super stylish - which is also important, and lucy knows this. That is why they make their clothing comfortable, functional, and fashionable. The Hatha Capri held up for the entire 5k, did not ride up, did not slip down, did not cause muffin top (a HUGE pet peeve of mine), and wicked moisture away from my body, even in the AZ heat! Check out the pics below. And Ill even admit, I think they really make my seat look nice ;) Great pants for women of all sizes. They look nice on the thinner model pictured above and they also looked nice on my body style so I think these are great pants for women of all shapes and sizes. Very flattering capris that also function fabulously!

These capris worked great for my run, which was also a water event and they did get wet (from both water & sweat - its already triple digits here in the desert!). They dried out quickly and really kept moisture away from my skin. The fit was amazing and I love that the length. It is WAY too hot here for long pants and Im not a huge fan of shorts so this length is perfect for me.

Key Features I love:

lucy's best-selling Hatha Pant now comes in a legging! With an adorably sleek silhouette, the legging features flat-locked seams and the compression, moisture wicking and four-way stretch of lucy powermax™.

• Ultimate compression lucy powermax™
• inseam: 18”
• Mid rise

For More Information, visit:

The lucy website
lucy on Facebook
lucy on  Twitter

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

Fight Post-Workout Blemishes with Bioré

Summer is right around the corner, which means extra time spent at the gym! Make sure your skin care regimen can keep up and the good news is: Biore can free your pores of dirt and oil that may build while you sweat and fight post-workout blemishes! Biore has two fab solutions: Biore Daily Makeup Removing Towelettes and Bioré Pore Detoxifying Foam Cleanser. I had the pleasure of reviewing both & they are a must have in my gym bag! Keep reading to learn more about both. 

Bioré Daily Makeup Removing Towelettes:
Prior to a workout, use Bioré Daily Makeup Removing Towelettes to instantly dissolve pore-clogging cosmetics. I do not work out with makeup on my face! But dont always have an option to wash my face with cleanser & water so the perfect solution is the  Bioré Daily Makeup Removing Towelettes! They are quick and easy to use and really remove dirt, oil, and makeup in just a swipe.  Fight build up with these gentle towelettes that effectively remove makeup (even waterproof mascara), dirt and oil. Perfect for on the go, and easy to carry in your gym bag, these towelettes instantly cleanse without leaving a greasy residue. I also take these with me on my camping trips and use them prior to running a race, and of course pre-workout! These are also great little towelettes to use when you simply dont want to mess with water & cleanser - I love these for a quick weekend morning face wash.

Bioré Pore Detoxifying Foam Cleanser

After a good sweat, your face needs a good clean. Clean, tone, and stimulate your skin with Bioré Pore Detoxifying Foam Cleanser. Wash away that stress and sweat from your face. It foams up nicely so a little really goes a long way. The scent is awesome as it is infused with eucalyptus extract! The cooling sensation is awesome and feels amazing after a tough workout or on a hot summer day (hey its hot year round here!). This self-foaming cleanser detoxifies skin and pores by removing surface toxins. The result: healthier-looking, refreshed skin. Gentle enough to use every day, this cleanser will have you feeling refreshed and renewed with every use. I use it day and night and my skin is thanking me. Yours will too!

For More Information on Biore, visit:

Biore Website
Biore on Facebook
Biore on Twitter

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

SHRED Pop Popcorn: Your Go-To Healthy Snack!

SHRED Pop Popcorn is part of the SHRED lifestyle, that is all about getting fit & feeling great! SHRED Pop is All-Natural, Gluten Free, Vegan, Non-GMO Corn, No MSG, No Cholesterol & Only 100 Calories per Bag! Need I say more? I dont think I have to but there is plenty more to say about this healthy & delicious snack. First: It tastes amazing and comes in some awesome flavors. I took mine to work & shared with friends and they all loved it! I had the opportunity to try the White Cheddar and the Kettle varieties and they were both super tasty. At only 100 calories a bag, flavors like Honey BBQ, Sea Salt, Kettle and White Cheddar will help you curb your craving without ruining your diet.

The SHRED Life is all about living your best life by making changes in how you eat, drink, think, and move. Part of living the Shred lifestyle is by enjoying healthy snacks such as SHRED pop. With their SHRED products, resources like SHRED Coach, and social media pages, they want to help give you the tools you need to reach the goals you have set for yourself. It is about changing your behaviors for long-term success. Whether that goal is losing weight, running that race you have always wanted to run, feeling better about yourself, or just improving your nutritional decisions and overall health, the SHRED lifestyle can help get you started and keep you energized for life

 

SHRED Pop is the perfect snack to keep you full and energized without ruining your diet. Keep a bag in your desk drawer or in your gym bag for a quick fiber filled snack on the go. Share with the whole family- theres plenty to love! Check out all the yummy flavors and let me know which one you like best. Also check out the SHRED lifestyle tips and join their community for plenty of great healthy living advice and information. 

For More Information, Visit: 

SHRED on the web

SHRED on Facebook

SHRED on Twitter

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

BzzAgent Presents: Coppertone's new CLEARLYSheer Sunscreen

Check out this BzzAgent campaign: COPPERTONE^® CLEARLYSheer^™ sunscreens were designed with your skin in mind. Coppertone is the first company I think of when we are talking sunscreen! I live in the desert so of course sunscreen is a must and I choose to use a brand I know & trust and that brand is Coppertone! I love that it is readily available at grocery stores, drug stores, convenience stores, and more. It works and it smells great! Sunscreen is important even on cooler days and in cooler climates. We need to protect ourselves from the harmful rays of the sun and the dangers associated with UV rays. Use daily to keep your skin looking young. 

I had the pleasure of reviewing Coppertone's new CLEARLYSheer sunscreen and I really like it. I usually dont wear an everyday sunscreen because they are heavy & cakey and end up causing my skin to break out. I have super sensitive skin & also am prone to breakouts. So, even though I live in the desert and NEED to wear sunscreen every day I dont :( I know bad me. WELL I am happy to report that CLEARLYSheer is not cakey, and is very lightweight. It comes in both a lotion and a spray! You can also choose your formula Sunny Days or Pool Days depending on the amount of protection you need.

Perfect for everyday use under your makeup and also works as a lotion to moisturize your skin. Doesnt have a heavy smell or heavy feel and love that it doesnt make my sensitive skin react in any negative ways. No breakouts, no itches :)

Key benefits I LOVE:

• Absorbs in seconds for a clean and light feel
• Moisturizing formulas help leave your skin soft and smooth
• Won’t clog pores or cause breakouts (clinically tested on acne-prone skin)
• Matte finish is perfect for use under makeup

For More Information, Visit:

Coppertone on the web

Coppertone on Facebook

Coppertone on Instagram

The Bzzagent website

I received a sample of this product from Bzzagent to review.  I am a bzzagent and participate in their program. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

Gaiam Presents: Cross Training for Fitness with Jessica Smith & Guillermo Gomez

Gaiam: Cross Training For Fitness
Jessica Smith & Guillermo Gomez, 2011

This 75 minute dvd contains 5 fifteen minute workouts, all martial arts/ kickboxing inspired. Guillermo & Jessica each lead segments alone in an Asian inspired set. You will not need any equipment for these workouts. You can play all from the main menu or select a routine. Each segment contains a built-in warm up and short cool down/ stretch.

Cardio Kickboxing: (Guillermo) Exercises include jab, hook, cross, upper cuts, punch combos, ham curls, punch up & back, jumprope, side knee pulls, speed bag and elbow strikes.

Strength & Flexibility: (Jessica) Exercises include upper cuts, roundhouse kids, elbow blocks, lunge to warrior 3, warrior 3 balance squats, horse hop out to pushups, bridge cross over reach, side plank kicks, tri pushups, and donkey kicks.

Lower Body Balance:  (Guillermo) After a quick yoga warmup, exercises include squats, double side step adding a kick, knee pulls, bob & weave,step knee pulls, repeater knee pulls, and  tai-chi style cooldown.

Core Power & Flow:  (Jessica) Exercises include torso twists, side knee raise & torso twist, standing and lying swimmers, supine X leg drops, crab knee pulls, sit up & punch, side plank, pike to plank,  and V leg extensions.

Relax & Restore: (Guillermo leads with Jessica) Exercises include breathing, balance work, stretches, plank, cobra and warrior. This is a qi-quong inspired flowing routine.

I rate these intermediate routines. Both instructors provide excellent instruction and make the most out of each 15 minute routine. Lots of unique routines that are easy to follow but keep you moving & interested. I received this dvd to review.

For More Information:

Visit the Gaiam website

Like Gaiam on Facebook

Follow Gaiam  on Twitter

Subscribe to the Gaiam YouTube channel

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

GIVEAWAY: thinkThin Bars & $25 Visa Gift Card

I am super excited about this giveaway because thinkThin Bars are AMAZING! I am a huge fan of quick and convenient meals & snacks but finding healthy & delicious options are difficult- until now!! thinkThin bars actually taste like cheat food but are super healthy, filling, and packed with both protein & fiber! Keep reading to learn all about them and enter below to win an assortment of thinkThin bars AND a $25 Visa Gift Card!

Summer is right around the corner (or if you live near me- its already here & in full effect) and it will be time to hit the beach or pool party before you know it! As you get ready to pack your beach bag with healthy snacks, don’t forget to include thinkThin® bars, which are loaded with protein to keep your energy up and your body in shape. They are the perfect breakfast on the go, snack to keep in your desk drawer, or a quick after-workout pick-me-up! 

I honestly enjoyed every variety that I had the pleasure of reviewing! The bars come in Crunch Mix Nuts varieties that are whole nuts & fruits -that both me and my 15 yr old niece enjoyed, I love seeing all of the ingredients right there and you can really taste the whole foods. thinkThin bars also come in High Fiber + Protein bars and these taste like dessert but leave you full & energized for what lies ahead in your day. Serious YUM factor here! Tastes guilty but wont pack on the pounds!

I brought these with me on vacation for a quick & healthy breakfast that didnt require refrigeration (think hotel living) and these were PERFECT! They taste amazing, I can eat them on-the-go and they saved me from the fast food line (save me money & save me calories). They kept me full until lunch, even with all the walking and constant go-go-go of sightseeing. 

Good nutrition should always be delicious, and thinkThin’s new thinkThin Lean Protein & Fiber ™ are no exception. Available in five BOMB flavors, each bar is ONLY 150 calories while delivering 10g of protein and 5g of fiber.  All five bars are gluten-free and contain only 5g of sugar.

Enter below, one lucky winner will take home:

• Information about thinkThin, including the five new thinkThin Lean Protein & Fiber flavors
• Each of the new thinkThin “Lean Protein & Fiber” flavors for you to try and review on your blog and assortment of additional thinkThin products to try

- 3 “Crunch Mixed Nuts” flavors - 3 “High Protein” flavors

• $25 Visa gift card to use towards a new bathing suit or whatever helps you feeling your best for the summer

a Rafflecopter giveaway

@thinkProducts #giveaway: Bars & $25 Visa gift card on @fitnessforus  http://lindseylu8.blogspot.com/2014/05/giveaway-thinkthin-bars-25-visa-gift.html

The winner will be selected at random. Contest open to US residents, no PO Boxes! I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for full disclaimers. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com. Actual prizes may differ than those above.

Jonathan Product's Green Routine Styling Creme Review

I am always trying to live a little greener- and my hair routine is no exception, so when I discovered that my fav Jonathan Product's  had a Green Routine line- I knew I must try! I had the pleasure of reviewing their Green Routine Styling Creme and I am in love. Curly hair is typically dry and mine fits that bill, also I live in the desert & the dry heat does not help. Everyone in this climate is recommended to use a hair creme in their routine to keep your locks moisturized and healthy. I love this creme and cant get enough of the smell - so natural. Keep reading to learn all about it!

Love the Creme because it is so versatile, Ive used it on my curly & striaght styles. This styling crème provides light control and manageability to my always unruly hair. It is thick & creamy and a little really goes a long way. It is enriched with shea butter, aloe vera, black cumin and clary sage to moisturize and strengthen, leaving hair with incredible bounce and shine. Works great for all hair types and is safe for color-treated hair. Perfect for creating beautiful, silky hair.

Key Benefits I LOVE:

•     Provides light control and manageability

•     Hydrates hair and adds shine

•     Contains Shea butter, aloe vera, black cumin and clary sage to moisturize and strengthen

•     Nourishes the hair and scalp and protects against dryness and brittleness.

•     An anti-inflammatory relieves discomfort caused by dry scalp.

And check out the green-living: Synthetic Free | Paraben Free | Silicone Free | Petrochemical Free | Phthalate free | Gluten free | 100% Vegan

For More Information, Visit: 

Jonathan Product's on the web

Jonathan Product's on Facebook

Jonathan Product's on Twitter

Jonathan Product's on YouTube

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

Natalie Jill's Rev4 Rev It Up Review

Natalie Jill's Rev4 Rev It Up
Natalie Jill, 2014

This dvd contains four 10 minute workouts. Natalie leads the workouts in a space with a motivational backdrop. You wont need any equipment and the dvd contains a separate warmup & cooldown. You can select a workout from the main menu or play all.

Full Body: Exercises include side to side punches, squats, upper cuts, curtsy & dip combo, plies, walk out to planks, planks, plank taps, bridge, tricep pushups, and pushups.

Lower Body: Exercises include around the world lunges, low runners lunge knee pulls, donkey kicks, lying hamstring curls, skater floor touches, knee hops, and fast squat hops.

Upper Body: Exercises include include up & over bow & arrow, rotator cuff, swims, tri pushups, planks, 1 arm resisting the other bi curls, low tri hovers, tri dips, plank shoulder raise, and crab walk.

Core Crusher: Exercises include standing side knee pulls, kneeling lean backs, plank toe taps, elevator planks, plank side knee pulls, bird dog, supine leg drops, penguin heel taps & side planks.

These are intermediate workouts though you can easily use weights to up the intensity. I really liked Nataile and loved the unique body weight only exercises. I will definitely look out for more workouts from her in the future. Natalie offers modifications options for some exercises. I received this dvd to review.

For More Information, Visit: 

Rev4 on the Web

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

Pure Water Bottles: The Worlds Safest Glass Bottle

I love using glass water bottles but because I am a bit clumsy I worry about dropping and breaking - well worry no more with Pure Water Bottles. They have a safe shell coating on them, so even if you drop and shatter the bottle you can safely pick it up and toss it in the recycling bin. I can vouch for this first hand as Pure sent me a broken bottle so that I could see how well the coating keeps all of the glass contained. I literally picked the bottle up, held it, passed it to my husband, he shook it around and then we tossed it in the recycle bin. NO glass shards, no mess, no safety concerns! LOVE IT! 

The bottles are dishwasher safe and come in a variety of styles and include TONS of lid options! I love that the bottles are re-usable, we all know there are TOO many plastic water bottles out there these days to even recycle anymore. Pure Water Bottles are great for the environment and are great for your health. They offer flat lids, sport handle lids, and sip top lids.

Safety first! My co-worker actually fell holding a regular re-usable glass bottle and cut her hand pretty bad, so since then I have been hesitant to use glass bottles - but of course Pure has saved the day :) I dont like using plastics (even BPA free ones because they leach colors & flavors, and metal ones can rust and the pain chips off. Who knows what kind of paint they are using so I am SO happy to have found Pure bottles!

Check them out and you will be a convert. The bottles fit nicely in your hand and with so many bottle & lid designs you will find something you love- probably a few :) Check the links below for more info & to score some Pure bottles for yourself.

For More Information, Visit: 

Pure Water Bottles on the web

Pure Water Bottles on Facebook

Pure Water Bottles on Twitter

Pure Water Bottles on Pinterest

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. 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. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com.

Interview with Self Defense Expert Jennifer Cassetta (10-29-2012)

The Belles recently had the pleasure of reviewing Jennifer Cassetta’s new Stilettos and Self Defense Vol 02. Jennifer is a  a third-degree black belt and offers a line of awesome self defense videos.  After she found herself in a few dangerous situations in NYC she decided to move towards the self defense arena and her video series was born. Keep reading to learn more about Jennifer & her hit series of self defense dvds.

Belles: Can you start out by telling us a little about yourself? What motivated you to create the Stilettos and Self defense DVDs?
Jennifer: Back in 2000, I began training in martial arts as a way to shake up my fitness routine and get off of the treadmill, AKA hamster wheel. I was immediately hooked on the diverse physical, mental, emotional and spiritual benefits of HapKiDo. About 2 years later I needed my training! I was attacked on my NYC street and scared off my attacker. I began to take my training to a whole new level. Years later I developed Stilettos and Self Defense as a response to requests from tons of NYC women. Since teaching these classes for years, I hear stories all the time about women being attacked, abused, put down and even killed and I always think, what if… What if that woman knew a basic strike, screamed, ran away, or avoided the situation altogether? That is why I created these DVD’s, to increase women’s awareness around safety and empowerment.

Belles: You have an extensive background in personal training, nutrition, HapKiDo and training clients to achieve their fitness goals, have you given any thought into putting together a workout and nutrition program for the home consumer?
Jennifer: Yes! Stay tuned in the next few months to see some new self-defense based workouts on my Youtube Channel: healthandthecity. I am working on a book that encompasses safety, strength, fitness and nutrition for the savvy girl based on my background as a certified personal trainer, clinical nutritionist and 3rd degree black belt.

Belles: In this day and age, it is extremely important for women to learn how to defend themselves, what advice can you give women to begin protecting themselves today?
Jennifer: Every woman can start just by increasing their awareness. Walk with purpose when you are alone. Keep a watchful eye on your surroundings at all times. Act confident with your posture, your gait, and in your language. Avoid being a target in the first place. I do believe every woman should take a self-defense class and if you won’t, then practice at home with me and the Stilettos and Self Defense DVD!

Belles: You have recently teamed up with Beachbody to certify instructors in the popular P90X program, how do you think having certified trainers at the gyms will affect Beachbody’s presence in the DVD market?
Jennifer: Great question! There are gym people and there are home workout people. By Beachbody allowing their programs to be taught in gyms, I believe, they are expanding their market to people who wouldn’t necessarily workout in their living rooms. It’s a great company run by very intelligent people so I am sure they did their homework.

Belles: We really enjoyed your Stilettos & Self Defense Vol 2 dvd, do you have any plans for future releases and what can you share with us about them?
Jennifer: The next videos I plan on creating will encompass fitness through self-defense training. This first series gives you the down-and-dirty ways to protect yourself in any situation.  Volume 1 is calledDefensive Tactics. Here you will learn more techniques from myself and demonstrated on a man. Volume 2,Stilettos and Self Defense, let’s you follow along in a seminar format as 5 ladies get their lesson in heels! Volume 3, Improvised Weapons, will teach you how to use every day items like a pen, key or rolled up magazine, to take someone down and get to safety as quickly and efficiently as possible. All three DVD’s are available for digital download or purchase at www.jennifercassetta.com/store

For More Information, Visit:
Stilettos and Self Defense on the web
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Q&A Session with Pilates Pro Lara Hudson (10-18-2012)

The Belles are super excited to share with you our Q&A “interview” session with Pilates pro Lara Hudson of the Mercury Method studio in Chicago. We have really enjoyed all of her 10 Minute Solutions dvds and her most recent 10 Minute Solution: Tighten & Tone Pilates with Resistance Band is another must have!

Belles: We have enjoyed all of your 10 Minute Solutions workouts, and you are obviously very knowledgeable about pilates. Is pilates your main workout regime or do you mix it up with other genres?
Lara: Pilates is my main foundation, but I love to mix it up!  I run in the morning, and I always look for new classes around town, including yoga, traditional weight training (hard!), and hip hop classes (fun!).   My new Chicago group fitness facility,The Mercury Method, combines the best elements of strength training, Pilates, yoga and endurance conditioning into one incredible total body workout. So it’s important that I continually experience what’s new and exciting in the exercise world, so I can take those elements that resonate with me and incorporate them into my signature workout method.

Belles: Why do you think Pilates is becoming so popular in the fitness industry as of late?
Lara: Because Pilates has become much more accessible and people see – and feel – the amazing results!  More people are working out at home with DVD’s such as the 10-Minute Solution: Pilates series because it not only improves they way look – leaner muscles, smaller waistband, defined arms, better posture – but it also improves the way they feel – they stand taller, their low backs feel great, their stress levels are lower, and they have sharper mental clarity and a zeal for life!  Why wouldn’t you commit to an exercise method so well-designed and so powerful that it can provide all these things and more?

Belles: What is the best piece of health or fitness advice you can offer to our readers?
Lara: My best piece of advice is to find instructors who ‘speak your language’.  There are so many DVD’s and classes out there, and the thing that helps me stick with a workout routine is the quality of the instructor.  A good instructor is a ‘people person’ who loves to teach, who finds innovative ways of explaining the exercises, who knows how to motivate, encourage and challenge me to hang in there when I want to give up, and who makes exercising fun!  Your connection with your instructor is the magic dust that will help you stick to an exercise program.

Belles: For those exercisers who believe that Pilates is too easy and isn’t for them or if you are not working hard then it’s not a workout. What do you have to say to them about the importance of incorporating Pilates into their workout routines?
Lara: Pilates gives you a muscular foundation so that you can do all your other activities better.  Whether you’re walking, running, swimming, biking, dancing – or even just horsing around with your kids! – your core is strong and stable from the hips to the shoulders, and your muscular system is balanced so you have greater flexibility.  My new workout, The Mercury Method, will integrate these ‘core foundation’ elements with large muscle strength training, stamina-building cardio conditioning, and limb-elongating yoga.  And with the unification of these fitness approaches, no one will leave my class thinking the workout was too easy!!

Belles: Fitness beliefs are constantly evolving as to the “best way” to reach a fitness goal. With so much information out there, how do you recommend individuals weed through all the information?
Lara: Recent scientific studies on exercise prove that there really is no single ‘right way’ to get fit, so we have to experiment a bit to get a regimen that works for our body.  Look for classes that are convenient both geographically and in terms of schedule.  If you don’t have access to classes, then invest in DVD’s from different fitness methods – the ’10-Minute Solution’ series is great because they have programs in PIlates, yoga, weight training, cardio dance, boot camp – you name it!  Find those instructors that motivate you, and you’ll be stronger, leaner and healthier in no time.  ’Like’ me on Facebook or follow me @listentolara to read up on my personal fitness tips and tricks, or work out with me at the Mercury Method in Chicago - I’ll transform you from the inside out with my signature style of Tough Love!

For More Information, Visit:
The 10 Minute Solutions Website
The Anchor Bay Website
Anchor Bay on TwitterAnchor Bay on FaceBook
The Mercury Method on Facebook
The Mercury Method on Twitter