Fitness PR Division

Power Plate Unveils the First Cable-Based Upper-Body Vibration Training Device

2010-03-11T14:21:41Z

Power Plate International (PPI), the global leader in Acceleration Training fitness equipment, today unveiled pro6, the first-ever combination of proven Power Plate exercise with upper body cable-resistance training to give users the ultimate, total-body workout in a half hour. Debuting at the International Health & Racquet Sport Association (IHRSA) show, Power Plate pro6 features an all-new fitness system called proMOTION, which uses high-strength Vectran cables to transfer vibration to the upper body at high-speed frequency rates between 20 and 40 times per second, dramatically expanding the benefits of Acceleration Training.

"Power Plate with proMOTION technology is a genuine game-changer for the fitness industry because it is a results-proven system that delivers a true, total-body workout," said Mark de Gorter, president of Power Plate North America (PPNA). "Power Plate pro6 with proMOTION offers health club operators a single product and a range of dynamic training options using Advanced Vibration Technology to deliver noticeable and measurable results, in as little as 30 minutes."

]]> pro6 with proMOTION works in conjunction with Advanced Vibration Technology allowing high-strength Vectran cables to transfer nearly 80 percent of the vibration from the base of the machine directly to various muscle groups in the arms, back, core and shoulders. Extending to more than six feet, proMOTION's Vectran cables connect to ergonomically designed handles to facilitate a smooth, complete range of motion. They allow for a full range of dynamic exercises, both on and off the vibrating platform and at any speed, in any direction, eliminating the need for multiple resistance machines to work different muscle groups. The cables are made with high-performance multifilament material spun from liquid crystal polymer. Pound-for-pound, Vectran fiber is five times stronger than steel and 10 times stronger than aluminium.

To maximize strength training capabilities and increase the intensity of exercise, the proMOTION system offers both low and high resistance settings, allowing the user to control the exact amount of tension required. The introduction of Power Plate pro6 with proMOTION brings a new element to Acceleration Training exercise, allowing users to push beyond the usual limits to achieve maximum results.

For more information regarding Power Plate products and accessories, please visit www.powerplate.com.

Varicose Veins May Put Some at Risk for Dangerous Blood Clots

2010-03-05T17:37:40Z

March is DVT Awareness Month and Vein Clinics of America encourages people with varicose veins, particularly those that have become painful and inflamed, to visit a vein specialist.

WHY: Varicose veins are not just unsightly; they may be a signal to potential serious health issues, such as dangerous blood clots.

Varicose veins, or enlarged, visible veins near the surface of the skin, are most commonly seen in the legs and ankles. Many people with varicose veins experience pain, swelling, heaviness, and fatigue in the legs. In some cases, the leg veins may become inflamed and painful – a condition known as superficial phlebitis. Sometimes phlebitis can be associated with superficial vein thrombosis (SVT). A recent study published in Archives of Dermatology indicated that 1 in 4 patients with SVT also had a DVT. (Binder B, et al. Association between superficial vein thrombosis and deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities. Archives of Dermatology 2009; 145(7): 753-757.)

Given the potentially serious health risks associated with some varicose veins, people experiencing swollen, painful veins should seek professional consultation with a vein specialist or Phlebologist. The Phlebologists at Vein Clinics of America are specially trained to diagnose and treat vein disorders and can help people avoid more serious complications as a result of their varicose veins. Recent advances in medical technology have made the treatment of vein disorders safer and more effective.

WHO: J. Theodore King, MD, FACPh, Medical Director of Vein Clinics of America will be available to discuss DVT and the importance of diagnosing and treating varicose veins.

HOW: Visit www.veinclinics.com or call 1-866-617-VEIN to make an appointment today.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT DVT:

There are approximately 600,000 new cases of DVT diagnosed in the US each year. Deep venous thrombosis mainly affects large veins that are deep inside the lower leg and thigh. DVT can be life-threatening if the clot breaks off, travels to, and lodges in the lung.
Symptoms of DVT can include:
- Changes in skin color (redness, but sometimes pale) in one leg
- Increased warmth in one leg
- Pain in one leg
- Tenderness in one leg
- Swelling (edema) of one leg
Varicose veins can predispose an individual to superficial thrombosis which, if left untreated, can lead to deep vein thrombosis or post-thrombotic syndrome.
- Symptoms of post-thrombotic syndrome may include persistent edema (swelling), pain, increased skin pigmentation, and ulceration.

Power Plate Offers Healthy Alternative to USDA Food Pyramid

2010-03-05T17:33:55Z

Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes each day to keep the doctor away, say doctors and dietitians with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. The nonprofit organization is running a full-page advertisement in March's Today's Dietitian urging nutrition professionals to use its new Power Plate graphic as a healthful alternative to the USDA Food Pyramid. The introduction of the Power Plate, which can be seen at www.ThePowerPlate.org, comes as the USDA is revising the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

PCRM's Power Plate is a colorful, user-friendly graphic that depicts a plate divided into four new food groups: fruits, grains, legumes, and vegetables. PCRM nutrition experts researched Institute of Medicine and World Health Organization reports and concluded that plant-based foods are the most nutrient-dense and aid in preventing cancer, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. The Power Plate, unlike the Food Pyramid, has no confusing portion sizes and food hierarchies; it simply asks that people eat a variety of all four food groups each day.

"People eat from plates, not pyramids," said PCRM nutrition education director Susan Levin, M.S., R.D. "We need easy-to-use dietary guidance tools that teach people how to eat right to fight chronic diseases. Studies show people who eat mostly from the four Power Plate food groups have the lowest risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes."

]]> An interactive Web site, ThePowerPlate.org, includes more information on disease-fighting, plant-based diets, and special sections for educators and health professionals.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will soon unveil its latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which forms the basis for the USDA's Food Pyramid. The Pyramid, introduced in 1991, was a major step forward compared to past dietary recommendations because it asked people to eat more fruits and vegetables. But the Pyramid, and its later versions, recommend two to three servings each of meat and dairy products daily despite evidence that these foods raise cholesterol, increase blood pressure and speed the onset of diabetes.

The average American now consumes more than 215 pounds of meat each year—up from 144 pounds in 1950. Meanwhile, two-thirds of Americans are now overweight or obese, and one in three children born in 2000 will develop Type 2 diabetes in their lifetimes.

Founded in 1985, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is a nonprofit health organization that promotes preventive medicine, conducts clinical research, and encourages higher standards for ethics and effectiveness in research.

Studies Detail Possible Benefits of omega-3 Fatty Acids for Dogs With Arthritis

2010-03-04T17:17:25Z

A series of studies published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) offers new insights into the possible benefits derived from feeding foods containing high omega-3 fatty acid concentrations to dogs with osteoarthritis.

The results of the three studies, according to contributing author Dr. Kevin Hahn, director of research and chief medical officer at Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc., show that the dogs that were fed the foods experienced less pain associated with the disease and greater mobility.

"Many of us write off mobility problems in dogs as a part of the aging process," Hahn said. "These studies demonstrate that feeding a food containing omega-3 fatty acids to a dog with osteoarthritis significantly improves mobility and quality of life. All three studies showed significant mobility improvement as assessed by either pet owners, veterinarians, or both."

]]> The studies, published in the January 1, 2010, and March 1, 2010, issues of JAVMA, included 274 dogs with osteoarthritis that took part in clinical studies at dozens of privately owned veterinary clinics and two university veterinary clinics. The researchers focused on three areas: the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on clinical signs of osteoarthritis in dogs; the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on weight bearing in dogs with the disease; and the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) dosage in dogs with osteoarthritis.

In the first study, dogs with chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis showed improvements in their ability to play and rise from rest at six weeks after being switched to a diet containing high concentrations of fish oil omega-3 fatty acids. The second study showed that limb strength in dogs improved with omega-3 dietary intervention, Hahn said.

In the third study, veterinarians were able to reduce the dosage of carprofen, a common NSAID used for pain relief in dogs with osteoarthritis, while still providing pain relief to dogs that were fed food supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids.

These studies show that omega-3 fatty acids provide pain relief and improve mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis. They also indicate that proper use of a food containing a sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids may result in a lower dosage of medication required to manage joint pain and improve mobility in a dog with osteoarthritis. This finding is especially important because it allows veterinarians to better understand that complications that may arise from pain relief medications could be reduced when the medications are used in combination with proper nutrition.

"First and foremost, dog owners should always rely on their veterinarian when making decisions regarding their pet's health," Hahn said. "But it's also very important for dog owners to know that osteoarthritis can be a silent and unrecognized problem that affects both the pet's and the owner's quality of life. With proper nutritional intervention, we can enrich and lengthen that special relationship between people and their pets."

The AVMA and its more than 80,000 member veterinarians are engaged in a wide variety of activities dedicated to advancing the science and art of animal, human and public health. Visit the AVMA Web site at www.avma.org to learn more about veterinary medicine and animal care.

Fitness PR: TW Training NYC Personal Trainers

2010-03-03T04:10:34Z

The economic windfall of 2009 has made us all more fiscally responsible and while many predicted doom and gloom for the fitness industry, fearing that financial woes would keep consumers from the gym, instead we have found that they are holding onto those gym memberships. Not only are they maintaining their commitment to their health but they are seeking more for their money by enlisting the help of a personal trainer.

While most health clubs and gyms offer personal trainer services, there is one that has caught our eye: TW Training NYC. The TW stands for Terri Walsh, whose fitness studio offers private 1:1 personal training services unlike at a gym where your sessions are being conducted while others are there for their workout. And in an age where everyone looks to have products and services tailored to their needs, securing a personal trainer who knows and understands your abilities and limitations, is just another way to customize your work out.

]]> TW Training NYC offers sessions that include strength training, interval training, kickboxing, bodybuilding, yoga, Pilates and boot camp style fitness among others. Walsh believes that each person is unique and therefore each program is specifically designed to meet their needs. There aren't any cookie cutter sessions at this private gym.

To learn more about TW Training NYC visit: http://online-personaltraining-nyc.com

The Marketing & PR of Fit for Life – Why it Remains So Popular

2010-03-01T16:28:49Z

In 1985 Harvey and Marilyn Diamond wrote a diet and lifestyle book. Today, 25 years later, “Fit For Life” continues to remain popular. Promising to change not just your diet but also your lifestyle, the book helps readers lose weight and create a new healthy lifestyle. The revolutionary New York Times best seller changed the way people saw diets; no longer were they just short lived, but rather they promoted a new way of living.

]]> The diet focuses on a few principles. First being that there are two types of foods, dead and living. Dead foods are considered those that clog the digestive system and remove positive energy, which includes meats and starches. Say good-bye dairy products and meet your new best friends, raw fruits and vegetables. It’s a committment to bid farewell to some of your favorite foods, but in the end we’re positive it’s worth it— for our health and well-being.

Diamonds’ theory is the digestive system goes through three different cycles throughout the day. Without counting calories, they claim, if you follow the cycles and meal plans, the weight will fall off as well.

Part of the reason “Fit For Life” has remained so prominent among fitness books is that it promotes change. And to us, change is a good thing. Unlike the fad diets that give dieters a quick fix (Atkins, South Beach, Grapefruit diets), the “Fit For Life” plan is the diet that keeps giving back.

Since the publication of the book, Harvey Diamond has promoted the lifestyle change through infamous saying “Fit for life, not fat for life,” as well as writing numerous other diet/fitness books. This summer the transformation begins again as “Fit For Life” is being reprinted. And we know it’ll be worth giving up our ice cream for.

Fitness PR: Ride Your Way Lean: The Ultimate Plan for Burning Fat and Getting Fit on a Bike

2010-02-22T15:23:03Z

It’s as easy as riding a bike. Or that’s what Selene Yeager, author of the upcoming book “Ride Your Way Lean: The Ultimate Plan for Burning Fat and Getting on a Bike” is banking on. The fitness book brings readers a weight-loss plan that centers around biking.

Yeager, nicknamed the Fit Chick, is no stranger to bikes. She’s the author of “Every Woman's Guide to Cycling: Everything You Need to Know, From Buying Your First Bike to Winning Your First Race,” as well as a columnist for “Bicycle” magazine. The fitness program, which includes eating reasonably (good-bye mini cupcakes), could help readers lose up to 100 pounds just by pedaling.

]]> Biking can help users burn fat, streamline their bodies and is easy on joints. We’re all for Yeager’s enthusiastic approach to weight loss, especially since she suggests biking with a friend. The book also offers expert cycling advice from the pros and stories from everyday cyclists, not to mention healthy eating tips and an easy-to-follow work out plan.

With spin classes all the rage at gyms across the nation, why not take it outside onto the open road? Grab a yellow shirt, and it will make each workout feel like the Tour de France.

Loving Life at St. Bart's

2010-02-18T14:58:33Z

With the snowpocalypse bogging down much of the Northeast in the last few weeks, dreaming about a tropical destination is the only way we’re getting through this winter. White sandy beaches, crystal blue water and temperatures above freezing? We’re in.

The much talked about Saint Barthélemy aka St. Bart’s still remains one of our favorite island retreats. Celebrities and socialites alike continue to flock to St. Bart’s for secluded getaways. Stylist Rachel Zoe tweeted about this paradise while vacationing on the island this winter. Beyonce and Jay-Z have been seen cruising on yachts.

Naturally, the draw to St. Bart’s is the island itself. With an temperatures hovering around perfect all year round, the prospect of Vitamin D is enough to book a flight. A walk down St. Jean Beach promises beautiful scenery and people watching to die for. It also means photo shoots. Victoria’s Secrets recently shot on St. Bart’s, bringing supermodels and their celebrity boyfriends to the island.

]]> Exclusivity remains the main appeal for many visitors. The lack of tourist means that celebrities can truly relax when they visit St. Bart’s (besides the pesky paparazzi zooming in from afar). The majority of the island’s accommodations are privately owned villas and with limited accommodations the island has become the premiere destination for privacy seeking celebrities.

And in case the beach isn’t enough, the island has plenty of shopping to keep you busy. Calypso, now a NYC staple, has a location on the island. And check out The House for upscale antique findings.

It’s trendy, exclusive and there's not a snowflake in sight. What’s not to love?

AquaHydrate Announces Webcast with Top Fitness Model Jamie Eason on Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

2010-02-18T14:14:37Z

AquaHydrate, the first high performance sports water , today announced a webcast with Jamie Eason, one of the top models and spokeswomen in the fitness industry and former "World's Fittest Model." The topic for the webcast, which will be held Thursday, February 25, 2010, at 11:00 am Pacific will be "Recommitting to your New Year's fitness resolutions." To view the webcast and record your video comments, go to http://www.ustream.tv/channel/aquahydrate.

Twitter users who would like to submit questions for consideration can send them in advance to @aquahydrate with the hashtag #askjamie. Questions may also be submitted through AquaHydrate's Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/aquahydrate

You can also win a free tote bag and bottle of water from AquaHydrate water by going to: http://www.aquagenus.com/campaign/jamie/

Eason, who has joined the AquaHydrate team as a hydration evangelist, is a former NFL cheerleader, fitness competitor and female face of industry-leading website, Bodybuilding.com. Now working exclusively with Oxygen Magazine, Eason is a passionate promoter of the value of a healthy lifestyle, exercise and nutrition.

"By the beginning of February, many people are already struggling to keep their New Year's fitness resolutions," says Eason. "The purpose of my webcast is to give them a boost by sharing some of my top tips with them, and to give them a little extra motivation."

"One of the most essential elements of fitness and nutrition is proper hydration," Eason said. "That's why I'm happy to be doing this webcast with AquaHydrate. As a fitness model and educator, I have to think about every aspect of my nutrition, and what I choose to hydrate my body with is AquaHydrate. With such a demanding training and travel schedule, I rely on AquaHydrate to stay hydrated and functioning at my peak."

"We're thrilled to have Jamie on our team," says Richard Berry, CEO of AquaHydrate. "She perfectly exemplifies the healthy values that we promote with our water – which is designed from the ground up for optimal hydration, sports performance, focus, and recovery.

]]> Hydration is key to performance and recovery

According to Dr. Cheryle Hart, Mayo Clinic trained physician and medical advisor to AquaHydrate, "Major sports nutrition studies have shown that proper hydration is the single most important nutritional intervention for athletes in terms of performance and recovery. But not all waters are equally hydrating. Plain, unenhanced water can actually dehydrate. And water enhanced with only major electrolytes is not enough. With its alkaline pH and essential macro and trace minerals, AquaHydrate provides a unique hydration cocktail, specifically geared to athletes."

AquaHydrate's performance and hydration edge

AquaHydrate, the first high performance sports water , provides a proprietary combination of an alkaline pH, and macro and trace minerals from natural foods leader, Trace Minerals Research – all in an ultra pure water. Athletes who rely on AquaHydrate during training and competition have experienced significant improvements in their focus, performance, and recovery.

Tweet your hydration, aging or healthy living questions to AquaHydrate at http://www.twitter.com/aquahydrate. If you become an AquaHydrate fan on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/aquahydrate you could receive free water and a tote bag! (shipping included!).

FlipFlop Shoe PR Brand Profile

2010-02-15T17:09:24Z

Ah, the endless battle of working out. Part of the struggle is forcing yourself to head to the gym. It’s crowded, we’re lazy, the excuses are endless. But alas, there’s a new fitness product on the market is aimed at us who want to be fit but avoid the gym.

Meet FitFlop. A sandal that works out your legs while you walk, it’s created with expert technology that literally tones your leg, calf and glut areas just by walking. The sandals also claim to improve posture (good-bye middle school scoliosis), develop muscle tone, as well as relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, chronic back pain and heel spurs among other benefits. The shoe also helps imitate the natural act of walking barefoot, though with more muscle load.

]]> With hundreds of testimonials on the company website, as well as the widespread availability of the sandal (available online at Amazon, Piperlime, Macy’s, the list goes on and on), it seems that footwear is becoming as multi-functional as cell phones. Offered in both men's and women's sizes, the shoe ranges from $30-$150. Brands such as K-Mart and Reebok, who introduced its Easytone sneaker this past year, are jumping aboard the shoe fitness craze as well.

Our main qualm is the styling. It’s more flop than flip. More specifically, the sandal won’t add to your shoe wardrobe.They’re made in hundreds of colors, with embellishments galore, but the trend status is nothing to put in Vogue about. They’re walking sandals, and ultimately, that’s what they resemble (think Birkenstock, Mephisto).

The company did, however, recently branch out and create FitFlop boot style, including a limited edition Anna Sui version, available on Net-A-Porter. This make us think there’s plenty of potential for creating great legs in every type of shoe.

What do you think... are these the shoes of the future? Or are they just a flop?

Flavor & The Menu Announces Top Ten Menu Trends for 2010

2010-02-11T14:45:20Z

Signature sausages, globally inspired sandwiches and a resurgence in fried foods are among the 10 major influencers driving menu trends for 2010, predicts Flavor & The Menu magazine in its newly released Top 10 Flavor Trends issue.

Flavor & The Menu editors watch menu-development, restaurant growth and dining patterns throughout the year, and, with input from a team of restaurant industry experts, select ten trends likely to influence menus and restaurants for the coming year.

Many of this year's trends point to a continued quest for comfort in food and dining, but with added value and enhanced flavor experiences.

"From sausages, family-style dining and 'rustic' fare to tavern settings and nostalgic desserts, these trends are indicative of how we are living our lives in an uncertain time - seeking small indulgences balanced with large helpings of comfort," says Cathy Nash Holley, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief. "We're able to step back and see these trends connected by a common thread and reflected in other areas of Americans' daily lives."

Concurrent with the release of the annual publication, Flavor & The Menu announces the unveiling of a new Web site, http://www.flavor-trends.com, which will launch mid-February. The site will serve as a menu trends resource, including detailed information on these trends, menu sightings, culinary strategies and supporting data along with trend updates and previous years' trend coverage.

Flavor & The Menu's Top Ten Trends for 2010:

Top Ethno-Cuisine Trend: Worldly Sandwiches

Goodbye, ham and Swiss - from now on it's a world of banh mi, torta, Cubano, tartines, muffalettas and other ethnic/regional sandwiches from around the globe.

Top Sauce Trend: Chile-Fired Sauces

The American palate is ready for a worldview of chiles and chefs are branching out with usage, layering several types and infusing heat in more ways.

Top Menu-Making Trend: Blue Plate Updates

Family-style dinners, Sunday suppers and other chef-driven ideas address today's quest for casual-dining formats in ways that boost value and enhance the dining experience.

Top Technique Trend: Deep-Fried, Sanctified

Nothing develops satisfying texture and flavor like a good piece of fryer work. It's a great fit with the small-plates and bar-foods trend; fried chicken, hush puppies and fresh donuts are good examples.

]]> Top Concept Trend: American Tavern

This revival is bringing about a new standard of pub fare, in concept and menu focus. Pared-down menus are more hand-crafted, offering reasonably priced, flavor-focused food and drinks that are distinctly American.

Top Ingredient Trend: Signature Sausages

High-end cured meat takes its logical next step with signature sausages in proprietary recipes, house-made and artisan versions showcased at center-plate, while the hot dog is turning into this year's hamburger, all grown up with premium ingredients, great buns and terrific toppings and condiments.

Top Culinary Trend: Rustic Revolution

Shorthand for all that is comfortable and affordable, "rustic" is the new artisan, encompassing everything from farmhouse tables and pared-down decor to foraged foods, farmstead cheeses and plenty of regional, home-style cooking.

Top Dining Trend: Global Grab & Go

Kebabs, dosas, crepes, gorditas and vada puri: these fun street snacks are being reinterpreted in limited-menu formats to provide meals on the run for a new generation of thrill-seeking diners.

Top Dessert Trend: Sentimental Sweets

These days, sweets offer a taste of childhood memories via cupcakes, cookies, whoopie pies and popsicles; even the most sophisticated pastry chefs are taking inspiration from nostalgic desserts while the soft economy makes this category even more lighthearted and important.

Top Beverage Trend: Booze-Free Buzz

Can you say artisanal root beer? Or lavender-infused tea, fresh, exotic fruit juice, spritzers, frappes and any of the myriad other specialty drinks that just happen to be alcohol-free? Inspired by the popularity - and profitability - of specialty cocktails, restaurateurs are taking the "virgin" drink category more seriously.

SOKO Fitness & Spa Group Broadens Geographic Expansion Strategy

2010-02-10T15:23:30Z

SOKO Fitness & Spa Group an operator of fitness centers, beauty salons and spas in Northeast China as well as suburban Beijing, today provided an update on its recently broadened geographic expansion strategy. In addition to its core strategy of targeting Tier-2 cities in China, SOKO has extended its geographic expansion strategy to include targeting facility openings in select under-penetrated, suburban areas of Tier-1 cities in China where it sees the potential to capture market share and achieve significant returns on investment.

SOKO defines a Tier-1 city in China as one of the major metropolitan areas in the country, with a population of a least 10 million. SOKO defines Tier-2 cities as cities with populations between 1 and 7 million.

During its 17 year history, SOKO has maintained operations in Tier-2 markets such has Harbin and Shenyang in Northeast China, where the SOKO has developed its brand and strategy to cross-sell its fitness center, beauty salon and spa services in these generally under-served and less competitive markets. According to its broadened geographic expansion strategy, SOKO will continue to seek selected Tier-1 center opening initiatives in under-served areas of these more competitive markets that will target spa and salon facilities, as well as additional fitness and yoga centers and new services such as medical beauty centers in order to cross-sell its services between business segments.

SOKO's broadened geographic expansion strategy was recently evidenced by its entry into the suburban Beijing market in December 2009 through the acquisition of a majority interest in two fitness centers. The acquisition of these centers is consistent with SOKO's growth strategy to pursue strategic geographic expansion through strategic acquisition. SOKO plans to pursue additional expansion opportunities in the Beijing, primarily targeting under- penetrated, suburban areas and sections of the city in which SOKO believes it has the potential to capture significant local market share.

"While we continue to target Tier-2 cities where we believe we have the most potential for return on investment, we believe a significant opportunity exists in and around larger markets as well," said Tong Liu, Chief Executive Officer of SOKO. "We believe that pursuing strategic growth opportunities in suburban areas of Tier-1 markets, such as Beijing, is consistent with our core strategy of opening facilities in areas that feature relatively low penetration from competitors, and where we believe SOKO can most effectively compete.

"As we move forward, we will look to broaden the range of services we offer to include beauty and aesthetics in addition to fitness centers. We believe this strategy will continue to enable us to cross-market and sell our full range of SOKO-branded services. We believe that we will be able to execute on this core strategy in these newer markets in a manner similar to what we have achieved in our historical markets of Harbin and Shenyang," Mr. Liu concluded.

SOKO's two currently owned Beijing fitness center facilities comprise a combined membership base of approximately 2,000 and are located in Beijing's Huilongguan district, a high-density commercial and middle class residential district with a population of approximately 300,000. Each club occupies over 3,000 square meters and features state-of-the-art exercise facilities, high- end equipment and other amenities consistent with SOKO's existing fitness center properties.

Nikki Beach Free iPhone App is in iTunes to Give Ultimate Relax to the Koh

2010-02-08T17:14:28Z

Nikki Beach, the world’s leading luxury entertainment and lifestyle group, announced their first lifestyle iPhone and iTouch application which is now for download in iTunes. Nikki Beach is the ultimate beach club concept that brings dining, fashion, music and entertainment together earning itself, as quoted by the London Observer, the undisputed reputation as being the

“The Sexiest Place on Earth”.

Nikki beach is coming with their latest trend and their own musical saga with this venture. You can even capture the latest Miami Beach aka Nikki beach music with this iTunes. The tracks are soothing and will give you ultimate relax even in their latest bungalow resort at Koh Samui Beach Resort.

It is here that you will find a unique blend of gorgeous people from all parts of the globe sharing languid afternoons and endless nights. Nikki Beach is world renowned for its surreal beauty and ambiance. It is one of the few places on the planet that champagne & cocktails at noon, accompanied by contemporary European delights & mood enhancing tunes, is a consistent reality. The Nikki Beach concept has transcended its international venues, and grown into a lifestyle company, complete with marketing and public relations divisions, special events coordination, a VIP card and concierge program, a fashion line, Nikki Beach Clothing, debuting its first collection at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, a music label, Nikki Beach Music, an exquisite publication covering everything jet set, Nikki Style Magazine, and boutique hotels and resorts. Now they are trying to continue their trend in Thailand Beach resort at Nikki Beach Koh Samui Bungalow Resort. You will feel relaxed while listening to those tracks while grabbing the beauty of white sandy beaches and coral reefs of lovely Thailand Beaches.

For more information on Nikki Beach Thailand, visit nikkibeachThailand.com/.

DIET COKE AND HEIDI KLUM INSPIRE WOMEN & THEIR FAMILIES TO LEARN THE HEART TRUTH

2010-02-04T15:46:20Z

Diet Coke and Heidi Klum are joining forces once again. For the third consecutive year Diet Coke is partnering with Klum and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) in a national heart health awareness campaign called The Heart Truth. To bring heart health into the spotlight during February, American Heart Month, Diet Coke will distribute special limited-edition packaging in support of the campaign. For her part, Klum will return to the runway for the Diet Coke sponsored Red Dress Collection Fashion Show on February 11, the popular kick-off to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. “The Heart Truth movement is near and dear to my heart, and I’m honored once again to join Diet Coke as their ambassador for the program,” said Klum. “This year I want to inspire even more women and their families to make choices that promote stronger, happier and healthier hearts.” Diet Coke packaging will have a new look in February. The limited-edition packaging will graphically depict one person’s journey from heart health awareness to empowerment to advocacy. The Heart Truth’s Red Dress logo will also appear on more than 6 billion packages of Diet Coke throughout the year. “The Heart Truth campaign celebrates healthy lifestyle choices, which have become increasingly important to Diet Coke consumers. In the third year of our partnership with the NHLBI, we are proud that we can continue to play an important role in this educational conversation,” said William White, Brand Director, Diet Coke North America. “One of the tips from NHLBI is to maintain a healthy weight. Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine is an essential approach to maintaining a healthy, balanced and active lifestyle. And with no calories and great taste, Diet Coke is not only an excellent choice for managing calorie intake, it also provides refreshment and hydration that helps our consumers be their best throughout the day.” The Heart Truth campaign has helped raise awareness that heart disease is the #1 killer among women to nearly 70 percent compared with 34 percent in 2000 before the campaign was first introduced. Taking the Message on the Road Diet Coke will bring The Heart Truth messages to consumers at a unique pop-up event in Los Angeles. The event will draw people by providing a fun experience where visitors will receive advice from registered dietitians and other health experts on diet, staying active and being heart healthy. Free heart screenings will also be available. More information will be available on DietCoke.com. Promotions and AdvertisingDiet Coke will continue to spread The Heart Truth message through national print, television and online advertising support. Print ads will run in major magazines, including Essence and Ebony, while the television ads will appear on high-profile shows, such as “American Idol,” the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and The Academy Awards^®. Additionally, digital integration will be included on Yahoo! Shine, People.com and Lifescript. Consumers who “Dare to Be Inspired” can find daily encouragement for staying heart healthy on DietCoke.com. For the month of February, DietCoke.com will provide daily heart health tips as well as ways to get involved in The Heart Truth. About The Coca-Cola Company The Coca-Cola Company is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world’s most valuable brand, the Company’s portfolio includes 12 other billion dollar brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, POWERADE, Minute Maid and Georgia Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company’s beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our Web site at www.thecoca-colacompany.com. About The Heart Truth CampaignThe Heart Truth^® is a national awareness campaign created by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), that warns women about their #1 health risk—heart disease, and the need to take action against its risk factors. The centerpiece of The Heart Truth is the Red Dress, which was introduced as the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness in 2002 by NHLBI. The Red Dress^® reminds women of the need to protect their heart health, and inspires them to action. For more information, visit www.hearttruth.gov.

Santa Barbara Wine Company Launches New Line of Artisan Wines

2010-02-01T15:38:33Z

Santa Barbara is often referred to as the "American Riviera" – a place that conjures up images of waves, spas, beachfront dining and, of course, the perfect glass of wine. Wine lovers looking for the fresh, modern style of Santa Barbara County will be delighted with these high-quality, luxurious wines.

Santa Barbara County has joined Napa and Sonoma as one of California's most prestigious wine regions. "This is the most exciting place in the world to be growing grapes," says Don Ackerman, General Manager Central Coast Vineyards for Santa Barbara Wine Company. "Our climate and our soils are proving to be ideal for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. For a relatively young region we are already producing great wines, and the potential in our vineyards clearly points to a tremendous future," he added.

The Santa Barbara Wine Company wines come from two exceptional vineyards situated on the Central Coast. In the Los Alamos subregion of Santa Barbara County, the Cat Canyon Vineyard provides the backbone for the Chardonnay. The vineyard's cool climate, combined with sustainable farming practices, produces vibrant, fruit-driven Chardonnay. This wine is crafted in a refreshing style, with limited oak treatment and minimal malolactic fermentation, and retails for $17.

The Santa Barbara Wine Company Pinot Noir is sourced entirely from the North Canyon Vineyard, which is located adjacent to one of the most famous vineyards on the Central Coast, Bien Nacido. The Cuyama River runs alongside the vineyard, and, with its maritime influence from the Pacific Ocean, the vineyard produces elegant and expressive Pinot Noir. The wine offers vibrant strawberry and cherry aromas with racy acidity, making this a very food friendly Pinot Noir, which retails for $20.