Secrets of Success

Stand up

I stand instead of sit when ever possible. I have to wait for the bus so I stand until the bus comes. I also have to sit in classes so I try and stand, or get up to get something as much as possible. Standing burns more calories than sitting

Strength Training Trick

How many times do you find yourself starting to hold your breath while lifting weights? Try to count off your reps out loud (even just in a soft whisper to yourself if you are around others) to force an exhalation during the contraction phase.

Eat Unprocessed Foods

Eat foods that have been minimally processed. The food will be easier digested and more easily recognized by the body. Our bodies don't know what artificial sweeteners are (well, they think that sweeteners are real sugar and when it's not, the body craves MORE sweets and sugar).

Think of your Calories as a Budget

The best thing I was ever told was to think of my calories as a budget. Know how many you can have each day and before you eat something ask yourself if you can afford it. If it's worth the amount you have to spend and you have the calories eat it if not rethink it.

Instead of ice cream

Eat a sliced up fruit or fruits with yoghurt on top!

Put a mirror on the refrigerator

Studies prove that people are more likely to stay on track when "eyes are watching them." A mirror on the refrigerator, and one in the pantry, may subconsiously reduce snacking, sneaking or binging. PLUS, looking at yourself will remind you of your goals and help make that decision on whether you are going to snack or choose another option when you are not truly hungry.
Even better, put your "goal picture" BESIDE the mirror to remind you where you are heading.

How to remember to drink water

I always have a full glass of water next to me so I can make sure I drink my water all day long. I avoid buying empty calorie drinks. During my workout videos, I pause it every 15 minutes to drink a glass of water to stay hydrated. Also another idea I have done in the past especially for my kids, is to set an alarm clock for every hour or so to drink your water. After awhile you can skip setting the alarm, and you will swear you heard it anyways, and automatically grab your glass of water.

Grab bag of DVDs

Over the years, I have acquired quite a few workout DVDs. Well, to have variety my routine and not get bored, I've decided to do a "grab bag" of workout DVDs. Just round up all of the DVDs, get a bag, and shake it up. Pick out a dvd and that will be the workout of the day. after you're done, set it to the side instead of putting it back in the bag so you won't accidentally pick it again. repeat each day until the bag is empty and then start over!

Pounds and Pressure

For every pound you lose, you take 4 lbs of pressure off from your knees!

Wall Pushups

Every time I take a bathroom break at work I do 20 pushups against the wall. I either stand vertical to the wall or, if I'm in a stall indicated for the disabled, I go at a 45-degree angle using the pole attached to the wall. Throughout the day you can get in 100 to 120 good pushups and your arms will definitely feel it the next day!