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Fitness & Health Archives

March 23, 2007

Recent Fitness Study Shows That Exercise Improves Your Memory

Everyone knows that exercise is good for your health, but did you know that it is also beneficial to your memory and functions of the brain, as well? A recent study done at Columbia University Medical Center in New York first did the research on how exercise affects brain function in mice and then compared it to a sampling of 11 research participants that revealed the results to be the same.

As we age, cells within our brains die off, but the research done on the mice and human participants found that each time a person exercised it stimulated new cell growth in the areas of the brain that are affected by memory and memory loss. Another benefit was the increased blood flow thus delivering more oxygen to the brain.

While this is only one study done on 11 people, it proves intriguing that the brain function of mice after exercise was mimicked by the human participants showing that there are many more health benefits than we realize than just keeping physically fit with exercise.

You can read the full report of this study on CNN Health.

April 4, 2007

New Fitness Campaign: Reebok Run Easy

When you think of running, do you envision pushing your body to the limit of exhaustion or even that Boston Marathon winner who is basically crawling across the finish line? Whatever happened to running just as a relaxing way to exercise? Reebok has decided to try to bring back the fun to running with their new Run Easy campaign.

Run Easy is about reminding us that running doesn’t have to be a competitive sport. There was a time when it was deemed exercise that was open to anyone; from running solo on the beach to an enjoyment of social time with a running buddy, running was easy at one point and not something that you had to be competitive at.

One of the Reebok Run Easy ad campaigns states: Run + Puke + Run = Crazy. A little over the top, a little gross when you think about it, but isn’t that the point? Running shouldn’t have to be exercise to push us to our limits, and honestly, it really doesn’t need to be involved in the “No pain no gain” theory of fitness. Running should be fitness that is open to people of all athletic abilities.

This polar opposite approach to the fitness gear industry involves many well known athletes such as Allen Iverson, Vince Young, Chad Johnson and Nicole Vaidisova, among many others.

The main question Reebok asks consumers is, “What are you just doing?” which is obviously a stab and/or take on Nike’s “Just Do It” motto. The campaign began this week with Reebok’s launch of the website GoRunEasy.com and will begin with digital advertising and print ads in select major cities, by the end of the month we will see the commercials beginning to air.

So will it work? Tell us what you think in the comments.

April 9, 2007

Study Shows That Tai Chi May Ward Off Shingles

Each time that I am pregnant, my husband mysteriously develops Shingles. It’s something that no one can quite understand and has baffled us each time, as it is very rare to develop Shingles more than once in your lifetime. Shingles is a painful skin rash, most often only surfacing on one half of your body, and occurs in people who have had the chicken pox. Although I don’t plan on having any more children (4 is enough thank you), I found interest in a new study that has surfaced that indicates the possibility that tai chi may help in warding off Shingles.

The study was geared at those 50 years and older since Shingles is usually most common in this age demographic (although my husband is an exception since he began developing it at age 35). Tai chi is a low impact exercise that anyone can participate in at any age. To do tai chi, you perform a defined series of postures or movements in a slow, graceful manner. Each movement or posture flows into the next without pausing. Many see tai chi as a way to tackle many physical and mental conditions such as stress, reducing high blood pressure, increasing stamina, and muscle strengthening and definition.

This recent study was done by UCLA and involved 112 healthy adults, ages 59 to 86, who have had previous cases of chickenpox. The study was split into two groups with one group taking tai chi classes three times a week for three months and the second group attending health education classes where they were taught good diet habits and stress management. Both groups were vaccinated against chicken pox.

After 6 months, the tai chi group showed nearly twice the level of immunity than did the health education group and the study found that tai chi paired with vaccination showed a 40% increase in immunity against Shingles. It is definitely interesting to say the least and something that should promote further study regarding tai chi’s affects on physical and mental health.

April 13, 2007

Video Games Becoming Popular For Child Fitness

Just as the Leapster gave children fitness for the mind, some of the latest video games for your console have video games geared towards getting your couch potatoes up and moving. One of the most popular being Dance Dance Revolution, which made its way from the arcade into living rooms and now even gym classes across the country.

With child obesity rates rising, it is games like Dance Dance Revolution that can make fitness fun for kids. Schools are taking note of the benefits of incorporating this video game into the gym class curriculum. It gives the children the best of both worlds, incorporating the technology of video games in with physical fitness to keep them active and healthy.

PowerGrid Fitness is another innovator when it comes to video games and fitness. They designed the KiloWatt in 2004, which was very large and very expensive. They have now come out with the Exer-station which is little less expensive than the original KiloWatt and geared towards home use. The Exer-station is a full body video game controller made to work with just about any game. So if you are playing a race car game, the harder you push, the faster your car goes. The Exer-station utilizes their ISOCOR technology, which allows isometric muscle contractions to control computer and video games. While you never have to get up and put any pressure on your joints, you still endure a muscle strengthening work out.

The Sony Playstation EyeToy is another video game component meant to be a fitness-related game. The EyeToy is a camera you attach to your television and Sony Playstation 2 while you use your body to play the games such as Play, which incorporates Kung Fu and dancing; Play2 which has 12 different physical games such as blocking soccer balls and hitting homeruns. There are several other games in the series, all meant to be interactive, fun and worthy of being deemed exercise.

As gaming continues to be part of our culture, it seems only natural to allow the transition from sedentary game play into one that can become part of your child’s daily exercise routine.

April 18, 2007

30-minute Fitness Centers Continue To Increase In Popularity


I’ll never forget the day several years ago when Curves arrived around the corner from my house. My membership at Bally’s Total Fitness was coming to an end and I was unsure if I wanted to renew it. The advertisement for Curves was intriguing: 30-minute workout, no men, no mirrors, no makeup. The price for membership was about the same as the one I had at Bally’s, but the idea of a convenient workout without worrying about my insecurity over my body in front of men at the gym is what drove me to finally go check out the facility for myself.

Pace is another facility that offers a 30-minute workout on hydraulic equipment otherwise known as circuit training. Pace was the original circuit training center, however, Curves for Women’s star has shown much brighter through all of their advertising campaigns and PR. These 30 minute circuit training fitness centers are becoming very attractive to those of all walks of life, from the business woman with a hectic schedule to the senior looking to keep in shape without a strenuous fitness regimen, Curves and Pace are becoming their fitness clubs of choice.

30-minute fitness centers offer many benefits both mentally and physically. Many women are intimidated by all of the different exercise equipment the typical gym has to offer. With circuit training, there are only approximately 10 pieces of equipment which offer strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance. There is no wondering which piece of equipment you need to use for what, you simply begin on one machine and make your way around the circle in 30 second timed intervals. The guesswork is taken out of the equation with a “follow the leader” type workout.

30-minute fitness centers make exercise convenient and easy to fit into a busy schedule. With Curves, there are 10,000 fitness centers worldwide, adding to the convenience of the business traveler looking to stay fit even when on a business trip. While you won’t get that muscle definition or body builder look that you would at gyms like Bally’s and Gold’s, a 30 minute fitness center is ideal for those who are already in shape looking to maintain it and for those looking to lose weight and inches and build stamina in order to divulge in a more rigorous workout at the gym.

April 19, 2007

Mind/Body Cruise To Be Held Aboard Carnival Conquest December 2- 9, 2007

If you love the relaxation that a cruise can bring, but also love fitness, Carnival Cruise lines has another great annual cruise put together for this year's fitness Mind/Body Cruise.

Via PR Newswire MIAMI (April, 2007) - Carnival Cruise Lines, Shape and Men's Fitness magazine have partnered to sponsor the fourth annual "Mind/Body Cruise" to be held aboard the Carnival Conquest, December 2- 9, 2007. The seven-day cruise aboard the 2,974-passenger "Fun Ship" will operate round-trip from Galveston, Texas, and call at Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel, and offer guests a rejuvenating experience through a variety of fitness, nutritional, and wellness classes and seminars.

In addition to fitness and relaxation classes that include an energetic aerobic workout to the sound of live drums or a daily sunset meditation session on the ship's Lido Deck, the "Mind/Body Cruise" offers interesting and informative cooking demonstrations and nutritional workshops, all hosted by renowned personal trainers, and nutrition and health experts.

"We are excited to team up with Shape and Men's Fitness magazine for the fourth 'Mind/Body Cruise' which provides guests the opportunity to experience creative fitness classes and learn about new and different ways to improve their fitness levels, all in a fun relaxing environment," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

"It's easy to understand why consumers today would want a vacation that allows them to feel good while having a good time," said John Balen, Promotion Director for Shape and Men's Fitness. "We are thrilled to partner with Carnival once again to continue to provide this unique health and wellness program that brings the magazine pages to life."

Classes and other programming for the "Mind/Body Cruise" will be conducted by leading experts who will also be on hand for personal, one-on-one consultations and Q&A sessions. Participating experts include:

Jacqui Stafford- Recognized as a leading authority on beauty, style and fashion, Stafford is an executive director at Shape magazine where she writes a monthly fashion column and has made countless TV appearances on such shows as NBC's "Today" show, ABC's "The View" and "The Tyra Banks Show."

Teri Hanson- a personal trainer and group fitness instructor for more than 20 years, Hanson is assistant fitness editor for Weider Publications, contributing to such magazines as "Shape," "Natural Health" and "Fit Pregnancy." She is also the star of Shape's soon-to-be released Yoga DVD "Long Lean and Strong."

Jon Giswold- is best known for his work in the country's most prominent fitness clubs. He currently teaches group exercise classes at Reebok/Sports Club New York and other locations.

Jeffrey Scott- A Reebok University global master trainer and an international fitness presenter, Scott is known for his creative choreography and a strong athletic influence. He has starred in more than 20 fitness videos and has made numerous television appearances including NBC's "Today" show.

Kent and Maria Burden- Authors of the award-winning book, "Yin Yang Fitness: The Whole Package of Health" and creators of a series of mind and body DVDs, the Burdens have made numerous appearances on television programs both in the U.S. and U.K.

Misty Tripoli- Tripoli is a Nike Elite Instructor and one of the world's most innovative and engaging fitness instructors, dance choreographers and personal trainers. She is known for her revolutionary and energetic fitness classes, and has been featured in several fitness magazines and television programs.

Jim Stoppani, Ph.D. - Stoppani received his doctorate in exercise physiology from the University of Connecticut. He currently serves as senior science editor for Muscle & Fitness, Muscle & Fitness Hers and Flex magazine.

Carnival is currently accepting reservations for the upcoming "Mind/Body Cruise" aboard Carnival Conquest. Prices begin at $659 per person based on double occupancy and include all "Mind/Body Cruise" activities.

Participants must reference fare code CSSH when making the reservation.

For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com

April 24, 2007

Pilates: Fitness For the Body and Mind

I had never heard of Pilates until I was up late one night several years ago unable to sleep and began watching infomercials. On came the famous Daisy Fuentes endorsed Winsor Pilates. It looked easy enough and was much different from the exercise routines I was following at the time that were rendering little results, so I hopped online and ordered the complete Winsor Pilates set of DVD’s.

Much to my surprise, Pilates was not as easy as it seemed on the infomercial at 2am, in fact it was pretty challenging. However the thing I noticed most was that it worked my entire body and left me energized afterwards (and a little sore). After two weeks I noticed that each move was easier to do and soon enough I dropped 10 pounds and the tone to my muscles had a leaner appearance.

Some of the great benefits of Pilates are:

* Gives more support to your spine and creates more mobility.
* It puts no stress on your joints, doesn’t wear down the ligaments and cartilage around your    joints and never overstresses your muscles.
* You only need to do Pilates 3x a week consistently to see results.
* Promotes better balance and better coordination.
* Improves your mental outlook and creates a feeling of calmness, balance and rejuvenation.
* Builds strength without bulking up.

Continue reading "Pilates: Fitness For the Body and Mind" »

April 26, 2007

Why Diets Often Fail

Dieting is something all of us have done at one point or another in our lives, or at least something we have thought about doing. However, many diets fail and for a variety of reasons. Many times it is the human factor, which includes eating to satiate a need, a love and overabundance of certain foods, or the inability to understand portion control. Other times it is the diet program we choose, which might alienate a specific food group, have super strict guidelines or just don’t fit into our lifestyle.

Some of the top reasons that diets, especially “trend” diets fail are:

* Diets deprive us creating a battle of “will power.” Many diets involve eliminating certain foods or even whole food groups. This is not only unhealthy but also unrealistic for the long term.
* Diets often don't fit into our day-to-day lives. Weighing, measuring food and counting points may help you lose weight, but aren't practical as long-term strategies for most people.
* Diets can be costly. Buying special foods or into special diet programs can rack up a big bill quickly. When the money runs out, it may lead you to quitting the program.
* Diets can actually lower your metabolism. When you drastically cut back on calories, your metabolism tends to slow down and goes into “starvation mode.” If your body feels it is at risk for starving, it will burn calories slower and store fat as a way to protect itself.
* Diet only plays a small part in weight loss. Long term weight loss and management is not just about what you eat, it requires incorporating exercise into your daily life, as well. Experts recommend 60-90 minutes a day most days of the week.

Many times we gain weight for one reason or another and feel that dieting is a quick fix. Many times we do lose the weight, but often gain back the pounds within the next few years because we did not utilize dieting as a lifestyle change or even look deeper into why we were overeating in the first place. If you eat when you are depressed, stressed or for comfort, those issues will still arise—dieting or not. It’s best to deal with those issues head on so that you use different healthy coping skills when the need to fill a void arises, otherwise you will continue to fall back on what is most comfortable and easy for you.

Creating a lifestyle modification that leads to permanent changes in eating habits and exercise are what will make your ability to lose weight and keep it off a success. Diets are simply a temporary fix to a long-term problem. Some of the ways you can be successful at losing weight are:

Continue reading "Why Diets Often Fail" »

May 1, 2007

Fitness Do's And Don'ts

Oftentimes when we are ready to take the plunge into a fitness program, we forget the basic do's and don'ts to working out. Below are some simple tips to keep in mind, as put together by Penn State University:

DO Start Off Moderately
Work your way into a routine. Going overboard after a long respite from exercise may result in injury, or at least disappointment. Your workout shouldn't do either, so build up from a moderate beginning.

DON'T Over-Exercise
For maximum benefit at minimum injury risk, the body needs to rest and recover. At least a 24-hour rest after heavy muscle strain is advised. Stagger workouts between heavy and light strain. For example, you can alternate a weight training routine with biking.

DO Warm Up and Cool Down
A low-impact warm-up before any exercise is essential. It warms the muscles, makes them more limber and easier to stretch, which results in a better workout. It also helps to prevent injury. Cooling down after exercising is also important as it relaxes the muscles, lowers the heart rate, and helps the body to recover from the stress of a workout. It'll make you feel better immediately after the workout, and the next morning.

DO Stretch
Flexibility is one of the most important factors of fitness. Stretching before, during and after a workout will result in better performance, good posture, fewer injuries, and overall better fitness.

DON'T Push an Injury
Listen to your body. If you feel pain, stop. Muscle and joint pain can mean many things -- pushing a small hurt can lead to big problems later on. If pain persists more than a few days, see a doctor.

DO Consult a Trainer
If you belong to a gym, you may have the opportunity to consult a certified trainer. He or she can help you craft a reasonable workout plan, tailored for your goals. A trainer can also teach proper form with exercise equipment. Even if you are experienced, bad habits can be developed.

DON'T Get Bored
Don't get bored with your workout. New exercises can break the monotony, and the excitement of perfecting new skills can help motivate. Since different exercises work different parts of the body, a diverse workout will aid overall fitness.

DO Find a Workout Partner
If motivation is your problem, a workout partner might be the solution. A partner can motivate you to workout when you normally might not, and can help improve your workout by watching form, encouraging extra effort, and pacing. Try to pick a partner with abilities equal to your own.

DON'T Lose Concentration
Preoccupation with outside situations can counteract the benefits of a workout. For example, you might decrease intensity as you lose concentration. And not paying attention to a workout can lead to sloppy style and potential injury. Instead, use the time to concentrate on proper form and control. It will lead to a better workout, greater benefits, and a more relaxing experience.

DO Watch What You Eat
Diet is just as much a part of fitness as exercise, and what you eat will affect every aspect of your workout. A proper diet also influences the results of you fitness plan, since it helps build muscle and decrease the percentage of fat in your overall body weight.

DON'T Dehydrate Yourself
When exercising, the body needs four to eight ounces of water every 20 minutes to replace water loss. If you become thirsty during a workout, you've already passed out of a "safe" stage of hydration. Take fluids immediately. If you are working out for more than an hour, you may want to consider sports drinks, as the extra carbohydrates help retain body water. But try them out first, as not all work, and some may cause unwanted reactions. Always avoid caffeine or alcohol when exercising, both of which further dehydrate your body.

DO Have Fun!
The benefits to working out don't pay off if you don't enjoy yourself. This isn't an excuse for not exercising, as it's still vital to your health. But finding a workout that you enjoy will make the difference when setting a workout schedule that will stick.

July 11, 2007

Core Fitness: The Balance Ball

While I know the old saying, "No pain, no gain," when it comes to exercise, I find that the pain is what makes me avoid it in the first place. Now that I am able to exercise again after having my son, I was in search of a way to get my core muscles back into shape and firm up other areas of my body without all of the pain involved to do so. My neighbor is a personal trainer and she mentioned to me that a Balance Ball was the best piece of fitness "equipment" to get my body in shape in a quicker time frame (and without the pain).

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The Balance Ball can be used in a variety of exercise programs which include yoga and pilates. Some of the benefits of incorporating a Balance Ball as part of your workout are:

* It trains the body in functional movement.
* Forces the body to strengthen the stabilizing muscles.
* Challenges the body to improve alignment and balance.
* Targets abdominals and lower back thus strengthening the body core to improve posture.
* Improves muscle tone and increases endurance.
* Improves flexibility and increases strength.

I have been using my Balance Ball for a few days now and it's amazing how many more muscles you engage when using it. If you have a career that requires you to mostly sit at your desk all day, Gaiam sells a Balance Ball Chair that is great to use while on the job. The Balance Ball Chair enables you to do Balance Ball exercises right at your desk, but also helps you to maintain correct posture and strengthen core muscles all while you work. It's just another way you can incorporate fitness into your day.

*Photo Credit: Gaiam

July 24, 2007

Late Fitness Bloomers Still Reap Rewards

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but when it comes to diet and fitness it's a different story. Researchers are reporting that even in middle age, taking on a more healthy lifestyle can decrease the risk for heart disease and premature death within years of that change.

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According to a study done by the Medical University of South Carolina, middle-aged adults who ate at least five fruits and vegetables a day and exercised for a minimum of 2 1/2 hours a week, maintained a low weight, and didn’t smoke lowered their risk of death by 40 percent and heart disease by 35 percent.

Additionally, Dr. Dana King, who headed the research, revealed that adults who implemented a healthier lifestyle actually caught up with adults that had followed these guidelines all along. After four years, both groups’ mortality rate and susceptibility to having a heart attack matched.

While this is a comforting statistic, it does not mean people should continue inhaling Krispe Kremes and skipping out on the gym until they're older. The risk for health problems can be reduced by an even greater degree if a healthier lifestyle is incorporated today.

So now there’s an even greater reason to hit the treadmill…that’s a good thing.

Photo Credit: Rock Fit

July 30, 2007

5 Fitness Myths To Forgo

When it comes to being fit, we know going to the gym is a must, but are we getting the most out of our workout routine once we get there? Here are some common exercise myths we might be guilty of believing in taken from AOL Body's Fitness Myths Demystified with personal trainer Jan Wyche. StretchToeTouch.jpg 1. Only Eat Protein "The body uses protein, carbs and fat to build muscle," Wyche notes. Additionally, any extra protein that the body doesn’t need could be stored as fat. It’s best that we eat a balanced diet with lots of vitamins and minerals. 2. Stretch Actually, we should never stretch before we run. Studies prove that stretching before exercise can increase our risk for injury, especially when we’re older, and decrease our overall workout performance. Instead, do a 3-5 minute warm up like walking. 3. Just Do Cardio "Building muscle helps maintain your metabolism even while you're resting and will help you slim down," explains Wyche. If we’re only doing cardio while dieting, we probably are losing more muscle mass. Lifting weights will keep the muscle we gain so that more of our weight loss will be permanent. 4. Fat Can Be Turned Into Muscle "Fat and muscle are two totally separate types of tissue. They aren't interchangeable," says Wyche. If we lose muscle mass it’s not because it has turned into fat, it’s because we’re working out less so we’re not using those muscles and they’re turning soft. 5. Crunches Will Take Care of Flab Wyche says, "You could do 5,000 crunches a day and still not see any improvements until you burn the layer of fat over your ab muscles." We have to add weight training and a large amount of cardio to those sit ups before we can expect to see any rippling results. Photo Credit: Health.com

August 2, 2007

Fisher-Price Recall: Health Risk, Toys Have Lead Paint

It gives me the shivers to even think that I almost bought my one son an Elmo Guitar and my other a Diego toy the other night; somehow I convinced them to get something more creative like crayons and construction paper. I sure am glad I did now that Fisher-Price has recalled over 1million of their toys because they contain lead paint, Elmo and Diego toys are the most prevalent on the list.

Exposure to excessive levels of lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. The brain and central nervous system are most sensitive, particularly in children. Lead is also particularly damaging to the kidneys, reproductive system and the immune system. The effects are the same whether it is breathed or swallowed.

The Daily Green has the complete recall list on their website. If you've purchased or your child has been given any Fisher-Price toys between April 19, 2007 - July 6, 2007, you'll want to click on over and see if any of your children's toys are listed.

August 7, 2007

Nutrition Expert: Amy Stephens MS, RD, CDE; Licensed Nutritionist & Health Blogger

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Amy Stephens, MS, RD, CDE has been working as a Clinical Diabetes Nutritionist for nine years specializing in diabetes & weight management. She's primarily worked as an Outpatient Diabetes Nutritionist for Dr. Andrew Drexler at NYU, as well as maintain her own private practice. She is a certified Diabetes educator, has also lectured to doctors and patients on nutrition with Diabetes and maintains a blog "Nutrition in the City."

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Shannon: When did your interest in diet and nutrition begin?
Amy Stephens: I have been interested in nutrition since college. I had many gastrointestinal issues that were corrected with adequate nutrition.

Shannon: Why did you choose to become a Nutritionist?
Amy Stephens: I decided to study nutrition when I learned more about the field as a career rather than a hobbie from my sister's friend at Syracuse University. I was so excited to learn that I could make a career from a hobbie that I loved. The opportunites with a nutrition degree are endless - chef, clinical nutritionist in a hospital or private practice setting, and so on.

Shannon: Do you feel there are any misconceptions or misunderstandings about what a Nutritionist does?
Amy Stephens: Absolutely. Most patients think they see a Nutritionist "to be put on a diet." Patients don't realize our eating habits are much more complex. I like to think of myself as an educator and coach to help patients overcome obstacles, food misperceptions and misperceptions from food advertising. Most patients misunderstand the food-diet-health-weight loss relationship; our food choices are 80% psychological and 20% knowledge. Patients know what to eat, they just don't know how to incorporate it into their lifestyles permanently.

Shannon: What do you enjoy most about being a Nutritionist?
Amy Stephens: I like helping people achieve their nutrition goals. I feel more like a coach and enjoy it when patients do well.

Shannon: Do you find that as society has become more health consciencious, that there is an increase in demand for Nutritionists and a growth in your industry overall?
Amy Stephens: I think it's trendy to eat organic, but I don't think people understand the health benefits. It's more important to achieve a healthy weight and exercise than it is to have organic strawberries. Also, food marketing is geared at making the consumer believe if it's organic, you can eat as much as you want.

Shannon: What are your thoughts on the recent trends in the food industry changing the way they market to children to tackle childhood obesity?
Amy Stephens: The food industry is focused on making money, not making us healthy. We'll be healthier if we eat less, not more foods/portions.

Continue reading "Nutrition Expert: Amy Stephens MS, RD, CDE; Licensed Nutritionist & Health Blogger" »

August 8, 2007

Elliptical Machines Offer A Total Body Workout

Elliptical machines offer dually an upper and lower body workout, which really saves those who choose home fitness (vs. the gym) both time, space and money. Elliptical trainers provide a great cardiovascular workout that burns just as much fat and calories as an aerobic workout with its high-energy, low-impact quality.

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Time and again I have heard that the Precor EFX 5.33 Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer (SRP $3899) is one of the best home fitness machines out there. It is designed with a 20 degree fixed ramp that allows for a forward or reverse elliptical stride, working a wide range of lower body muscles while the handlebars provide resistance to the arms and upper body.

The Precor EFX 5.33 offers:

* Natural Motion: Fluid human motion, equaled by machine. Engineered to move the way you move.

* Total-body workout: Ergonomic handlebars let you tone and condition your entire body while maintaining a comfortable posture and good technique.

* Workout variety: With 14 programs and 20 resistance levels, plus synchronized handlebars, keep routines fresh, varied and challenging for faster results and sustained motivation.

* SmartRate: Instant display of your actual heart rate keeps you in your target zone for improved cardio-training and weight-loss results.

Have you used the Precor EFX 5.33 or do you have a different Elliptical machine that you are fond of? Let us know in the comments.

August 9, 2007

Fitfiend.com: Fitness Social Networking

I previously posted about fitness and social networking a few days back. There is another new site just out of beta to add to that list: Fitfiend.com. FitFiend.com is social network devoted to health, fitness, and athletics. It is a community that connects FitPros and FitFiends.

FitFiend.com offers members the ability to set up profiles and blogs, as well as the ability to track workouts and physical progress through their rich media platform that incorporates pictures and video. Members can also use the discussion boards to ask fitness related questions and can rate and tag blog postings, workouts, and discussion topics to make them more easily searchable, while they also endorse other FitPros or FitFiends.

FitPros are personal trainers, group fitness instructors, yoga instructors, martial arts instructors, nutritionists and coaches who can utilize Fitfiend.com to provide information about themselves to potential/existing clients and students. They can update their calendars with their schedules, and provide details about their training facilities and services. Fitfiends are the community members that can track their workouts and physical progress, and share them with other members. They can also communicate with each other to find activity partners and discuss various fitness related topics. They can leave endorsements for each other, and provide feedback on fitness facilities and FitPros.

Fitfiend.com is free to join, so if you are looking to connect with those who love fitness sign up today.

August 15, 2007

How Young Is Too Young For Weight Loss Surgery?

I sat amazed today watching a story on Good Morning America about Brooke Bates, who at 12 years old had liposuction and a tummy tuck, then at 13 had gastric lap-band surgery. According to her mother, she had been overweight "all her life." I questioned, as did the GMA host, how young is too young for weight loss surgery?

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Brooke's mother spoke about how her daughter had been on a diet since she was 3. The family gave their consent for Brooke to have liposuction and a tummy tuck at age 12, which Brooke subsequently lost 40 pounds and gained 35 of it back. As I have mentioned in a previous post, diet needs to be a lifestyle change. If Ms. Bates had been on a diet from age 3-12, then there was a component missing to ensure her success of this lifestyle change. Also, I believe it is very difficult for children to understand and adhere to such a lifestyle change. When challenged about this weight gain, Ms. Bates mother argued that Brooke's overeating was not due to an emotional issue, but "more of a hereditary characteristic in our family."

At 13 the family traveled to Mexico, against their doctor's advice, to allow Brooke to have gastric lap-band surgery done. Brooke has lost 15 pounds since having the surgery a few weeks ago and is aiming for a goal weight of 125 pounds.

While I am not against cosmetic surgery, I have to wonder if Brooke's parents allowing her to have two surgeries at such a young age is merely an easier way to achieve weight loss than to deal with the possible real issues of her overeating to begin with. Since the lap-band is a new weight loss surgical treatment, it is not yet known how long the band lasts and if there are any potential side affects or complications down the road. The surgeries also do not address the emotional side as to why Brooke overeats in the first place, which means she is likely to continue eating poorly until the issue is addressed.

What are your thoughts on Brooke Bates story? How young is too young for weight loss surgery and do you feel there are any exceptions regardless of age?

August 31, 2007

Pierce Mattie's Latest Fitness Obsession: The Star Trac Elite Cross Trainer

Pierce Mattie has products he absolutely loves and the Star Trac Elite Cross Trainer is one of them. This luxury fitness machine, that can be placed in the gym or your own home, is the concept made reality through the collaboration of Star Trac and BMW Group DesignworksUSA. Designed with the latest cross section of technology and fitness that is FitLinxx certified, I can see why this elliptical has become his recent obsession.

One of the top reason’s Pierce loves this elliptical is because of the built-in fan. The fan helps you stay on the machine longer because you don’t overheat and if you're somewhat claustrophobic, it will help you feel like you are actually running outdoors. It is due to this fan that he can remain on the Elite Cross Trainer for 60 minutes while burning up to 800 calories.

However, that is not all that this fitness machine features that proves to be of value. The Elite Cross Trainer features Pro Partner technology that communicates via infrared (IR) beam with Palm OS software. Through another collaborative effort, SingleTap and Star Trac have created technology that allows the user to receive workout data from the elliptical directly to their Palm that they can then compare and review to previous workouts. They also create their own workouts on their Palm and bring them to the gym and upload them into the Elite Cross Trainer. Thus helping them to remain focused and note progress towards their fitness goal.

With 20 levels of resistance and the integration of strength training into a cardio workout, Pierce is pretty positive that the Star Trac Elite Cross Trainer will become an obsession with you, too.

September 19, 2007

Yoga In Central Park With Here Comes The Sun

Health Magazine is holding a celebration of yoga and well-being at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park with an event titled, "Here Comes The Sun." The event, taking place at 11am-4pm on Saturday Sept. 29th, will feature a performance by Joan Osbourne and yoga classes with expert YogaWorks instructor, Sara Ivanhoe.

yoga_here_comes_the_sun_central_park.jpg

Here Comes The Sun details:

* September 29th 11am-4pm
* Rumsey Playfield, Central Park (directions)
* Cost $25
* Benefits The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Inc. and StepUp Women's Network.
* Skin care consultations
* Classes for all levels with instructors from YogaWorks: Vinyasa Flow, Detox Flow and even Pilates.
* Samples from event sponsors such as L'Oreal Paris, VitaminWater and LeanCuisine.

For complete details of events and sponsors, please visit Here Comes The Sun.

October 1, 2007

ExerciseTV and Lionsgate Join Forces to Create and Distribute Workout Programs

ExerciseTV, the first comprehensive on-demand network dedicated to fitness, sports training and motivational programming, and Lionsgate, the leading independent filmed entertainment studio and a leading distributor of fitness DVDs, have announced a new partnership to create and distribute workout programs that will launch new fitness personalities and spotlight the latest in fitness trends. These ExerciseTV/Lionsgate programs will be available to consumers via multiple platforms and venues: including through ExerciseTV's online store at www.exercisetv.tv; via video-on-demand (VOD) on ExerciseTV; and on DVD through retail outlets.

The partnership will premiere its first joint production this fall, with the DVD release of the STAR TRAINERS series, produced by ExerciseTV and distributed by Lionsgate. The three DVDs will be available for purchase individually or as a package exclusively on ExerciseTV's online store through December 2007. The STAR TRAINERS DVD series will be available in retail outlets across the country beginning on December 18, 2007.

Individual STAR TRAINERS workout programs can be seen on ExerciseTV via video-on-demand (VOD).

"We're really excited about working with Lionsgate to bring top-notch workout programs to a wide national and international audience," says Jake Steinfeld, founder of ExerciseTV and CEO of Body by Jake Global. "ExerciseTV is on the frontlines of fitness, and by partnering with one of the top producers and distributors of fitness DVDs, we look forward to motivating a whole new audience to get fit and live healthy lifestyles."

"We've been very impressed with what ExerciseTV has done to make world-class fitness programming available all day, everyday, with its free VOD workout programming," says Anne Parducci, Executive Vice President, marketing for Lionsgate. "Bringing ExerciseTV's unique fitness expertise into the Lionsgate fold will only further enhance our position as leaders in the fitness market."

Lionsgate possesses one of the most extensive and high-profile fitness DVD libraries in the industry and already boasts the top four fitness DVDs among all releases in 2007. Dancing With The Stars: Cardio Dance has accounted for more than $1 million in consumer spending in its first month of release including higher week one sales than any other fitness DVD to date. In addition, Lionsgate is the longtime distributor of Denise Austin DVDs, currently claiming two of the top four titles for the year, according to Nielsen data, building on her success as one of the top names in fitness. Lionsgate's fitness DVD releases of The Biggest Loser - The Workout, Vol. 1 and The Biggest Loser - The Workout, Vol. 2 have earned more than $4 million, making it one of the most successful fitness brands on DVD today. Lionsgate has also recently acquired another longtime fitness DVD success -- Kathy Smith -- one of the biggest names in the fitness
industry.

Continue reading "ExerciseTV and Lionsgate Join Forces to Create and Distribute Workout Programs" »

October 17, 2007

FitFiend.com: A Motivational Fitness Partner To Keep You On The Right Track

FitFiend.com is revved up to be the new leader in online fitness social networking. Designed to cater to the fitness fiends in all of us, the site provides a platform for members to search for fitness professionals, network with each other for tips and motivation, connect with fitness partners to help stay on track with goals, rate and find gyms and other fitness related facilities, and find out about fitness events in their area.

fitness_pro.jpg

FitFiend Core Features Include:

* Rich media features that allow users to upload media such as pictures and video
* A blogging feature allowing members to share their progress and experience as they strive to achieve a greater level of fitness
* An endorsement feature that gives users the chance to give kudos to FitPros or to motivate their friends
* A physical tracking feature, with the option to keep visible for only friends, that allows a user to track weight, as well as different body measurements
* A customizable workout feature that allows users to build comprehensive workouts by adding different exercises. Each workout can be kept private if the user wishes.
* A calendar feature that allows users to add events by inputting them themselves, or else by adding from other members’ calendars. This includes adding a FitPro’s schedule of classes to their own.
* An events feature where users can add any event, from a triathlon to a special group fitness class to a casual game of football
* A forum thread feature that allows users to discuss any fitness related issue
* True Web 2.0 functionality such as tag clouds, voting, and social bookmarking
* Partnership with digital video content providers, resulting in several different fitness based “channels” on FitFiend.com
* A panel of fitness experts, providing our users to a free database of workout expertise
* A “Reviews” section to rate and discuss fitness facilities, classes, products, and supplements
* A “Groups” feature that permits users to form and join groups with peers with similar interests
* A “Jobs” section for employers to post job listings for trainers and other fitness related providers
* A revenue sharing model for bloggers
* GeoTargeting and GeoAdvertising

Upcoming Features Will Include:

* Production of our own fitness based internet television programming
* Integration of sophisticated workout and nutrition tracking functionality
* Partnership with podcast workout providers
* A “Listings” section for fitness providers to list advertise and list their services
* A “Dating” section to connect singles with similar interests

Meet Lacey Stone, A FitFiend FitPro:
Former Division I Basketball Player and State-Ranked Tennis Player, Lacey Stone is currently one of New York City's most effective fitness professionals. She is the founder and owner of Lacey Stone Fitness, LLC. -a company built on the principle of applying the mentality, work ethic and spirit of athletes to everyday life.

Continue reading "FitFiend.com: A Motivational Fitness Partner To Keep You On The Right Track" »

January 29, 2008

Fitness PR: ediets Deliciously Yours

If there are things we all complain about when trying to lose weight, it's that diets are restrictive, we run out of creative ideas on how to prepare low fat meals that actually taste good or honestly, we are just plain lazy trying to figure out how to work a diet plan into our lifestyle. ediets new Deliciously Yours is trying to change the way you diet and it sounds very enticing to me!

The new Deliciously Yours diet plan involves freshly prepared meals that are not powdered, dried or canned, have no added preservatives, yet can stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to 14 days. It's a well balanced meal suited for your weight loss needs, calories counted and all. The ediets Deliciously Yours Meal menu contains 50 meals you can choose from for your weekly 4 meal a day plan. And that 4th meal? Dessert! I love that you don't have to give up eating dessert because certainly if you deprived yourself of a sweet each day you may just find yourself gorging yourself when the temptation cracks.

Being part of the plan you are given free access to ediets.com where you can work with a nutritionist and personal trainer to develop a plan that will fit your lifestyle. The Deliciously Yours plan allows you to choose two ways in which you want to tackle the program to lose weight--either utilizing the freshly prepared food menu 7 days a week or by doing the "weekends free" plan. If you are just beginning your weight loss, you'll want to go with 7 days until you feel confident enough with portion control and getting into the habit of healthy eating. That way when you switch to the weekends free version, you'll be able to confidently cook weekend meals that won't sabotage your weight loss goal.

Have you seen or tried Deliciously Yours? I'd love to hear your opinion on it.

May 20, 2008

With Bathing Suit Season Comes Panic Workouts

With spring and summer comes the season most people dread – bathing suit season! It is during the New Year that most make the resolution to staying fit. Before you know it, you have stopped going to the gym and have even ordered a few pizzas along the way.

Come mid-March it starts to click in our mind that it might be time to start actually getting in shape. April rolls around and your gym shoes have yet to be worn. Finally, May – the most frantic fitness time of the year, where you have exactly 31 days to look fabulous in your bathing suit. This is when you find yourself up at the crack of dawn on the elliptical machine every morning to get that killer figure you just saw in SHAPE magazine.

Word to the wise: incorporate fitness into your everyday routine. Sign up for fun, new fitness classes or programs online to help you tone up and get ready to sit poolside - you’ll feel and look great the whole year round!

June 9, 2008

The Newest Fitness Craze: Wii Fit

Gone are the days of monotonous exercise. Running on the treadmill not your idea of an exciting fitness routine? Nintendo has got the cure for those of us who need something more to get us motivated to work out--the Wii Fit. Wii's interactive games have been captivating people from all age groups for a while now, but with the Wii Fit specifically focused on toning and strengthening your body, as well as weight loss through aerobic exercise, it is a craze that is selling out Wii Fit packages everywhere.

 

The Wii Fit system has you create a profile so that you can track your progress and create your onscreen self. You can chart your progress towards your goals through your BMI, weight, Wii age and Fit credits. It comes with a balance board which tracks your movements to coordinate them with what is happening onscreen. The games are fun and interactive such as snowboarding, hula hooping, dancing and balance games. Yoga helps with your core strength and stress relief.

After my girlfriend relayed to me that she lost 20 lbs using a combination of Wii Fit and Weight Watchers, I've decided this will be my next "paycheck purchase."

Have you tried Wii Fit? If you've seen results, I'd love to hear about them.

July 16, 2008

Life Fitness 95T Treadmill houses iPod®

iPod Treadmill 
New Treadmills Go the Extra Mile

Don’t you hate it when you finally get motivated to go to gym and as soon as you get there you realize your iPod® is dead?  This morning was definately one of those times for me. I got all stretched out and warmed up, hopped on the treadmill, got my ear buds in perfect position only to find a dim screen in place of the usual oh, so comforting glow of the opening apple logo on my iPod®. Feeling slightly defeated (and intimidated at the thought of running without music, I mean who does that these days anyway?) I looked down at the treadmill to set my workout and realized my gym made a huge equipment upgrade!

As if the Apple God’s were looking down on me, I heard a resounding choir of angels when I saw the “iPod®” logo on a cord coming out of the new futuristic console! Turns out, Life Fitness has delivered the ultimate computer-assisted workout equipment called the Elevation Line.  The treadmill not only seamlessly integrates your iPod® into it’s touch screen (while charging it I might add), it has a whole gang of other techonologic features including USB connectivity and virtual terrain interfaces.

The bells and whistles of this fitness equipment are endless. You can opt to have a virtual personal trainer who will pop up on the screen at appropriate intervals to keep you motivated.  He says things like "You are doing great!" and “You are halfway there!”  Also available is USB connectivity that allows you to save your workout to a memory stick and track workout progress.

It appears the fitness world is heading in the right in direction with the electronic revolution.  I have to admit I actually enjoyed running today and can't wait to get back on the treadmill tomorrow!  And I don't even have to remember to charge my iPod®! Have any of you found that technological advances have helped you stay on track with your fitness goals?

July 18, 2008

Need Weight Loss Inspiration? Mark Salinas is Your Guy

Getting motivated to lose weight is the easy part but remaining inspired to stay the course is tough. We're inundated with opportunities to go on a diet vs. a lifestyle change, try this fad weight loss plan or this fad workout and it's no wonder most of us fail. Two and half weeks ago I began working out everyday, something I've never done before. I know that in order to keep myself mentally motivated I needed to find a source of inspiration when that little voice fills me with doubt that I can't meet my weight loss goal. Then, out of the blue, Mark Salinas began following me on Twitter and I became inspired.

 

Mark Salinas Before & After

Mark's story is one you may be familiar with, as he at one time was at a healthy weight, but ate whatever he wanted and as time went on, his weight increased. He kept putting off exercise and making excuses until one day he just made the commitment to tackle a healthy lifestyle head on and joined Lifetime Fitness. Mark weighed in at 250 lbs but now, a year after starting his fitness quest, he is a healthy and trim 190 lbs. Wanting to know more about his success, I asked him a few questions...

Continue reading "Need Weight Loss Inspiration? Mark Salinas is Your Guy" »

July 28, 2008

Exercise Trends: Incorporating Dance into your Workout

So You Think You Can Have a Dancer's Body?

pasha abs

Nigel Lythgoe, executive producer of the hot dance show So You Think You Can Dance (“SYTYCD”), said it best this week, "The guys on this show all look like they are out of the movie 300,” pointing out that the dance moves aren’t the only sexy thing on the show. Between SYTYCD, Dancing with the Stars, America’s Best Dance Crew, Dancelife (and not to mention the new Chris Brown dance competition series announced this week) there has never been a time where dance has been more widely popular.

Luckily you don't have to dance the countless hours the contestants of these shows do to start to see some dancer-like features. There are plenty of fitness options you can take advantage of in order to achieve the leaner and longer physique most dancers have.  For you gym-goers there are a bunch of dance fitness group classes, and for those of you who choose your home as your gym of choice there are DVDs to watch and moves to try.

As a former dancer myself, I am more than happy with the lasting results that 18 years of dance training has proved for me, so I have always incorporated a dance-focused fitness regimen.  Below, I took the guesswork out for you and offer my favorite dance-themed fitness tips:

Continue reading "Exercise Trends: Incorporating Dance into your Workout" »

Exercise Trends: Incorporating Dance into your Workout

So You Think You Can Have a Dancer's Body?

pasha abs

Nigel Lythgoe, executive producer of the hot dance show So You Think You Can Dance (“SYTYCD”), said it best this week, "The guys on this show all look like they are out of the movie 300,” pointing out that the dance moves aren’t the only sexy thing on the show. Between SYTYCD, Dancing with the Stars, America’s Best Dance Crew, Dancelife (and not to mention the new Chris Brown dance competition series announced this week) there has never been a time where dance has been more widely popular.

Luckily you don't have to dance the countless hours the contestants of these shows do to start to see some dancer-like features. There are plenty of fitness options you can take advantage of in order to achieve the leaner and longer physique most dancers have.  For you gym-goers there are a bunch of dance fitness group classes, and for those of you who choose your home as your gym of choice there are DVDs to watch and moves to try.

As a former dancer myself, I am more than happy with the lasting results that 18 years of dance training has proved for me, so I have always incorporated a dance-focused fitness regimen.  Below, I took the guesswork out for you and offer my favorite dance-themed fitness tips:

Continue reading "Exercise Trends: Incorporating Dance into your Workout" »

August 4, 2008

Fitness Goals: Olympic Athlete Inspiration

Inspiration in Olympic Proportions
Beijing Olympics Logo

I recently stumbled across my new television obsession.  In preparation for the Olympics, there is a channel fully dedicated to background Olympic information.

Just when I thought I was over all the pre-Olympic publicity I found the Bejing Olympics channel (channel 99 on Verizon Fios programming). Biographical pieces on Michael Phelps combined with "How to: Pole Vault" make up a repeating reel that is shown 24/7 leading up to the Olympics.  The stories are just as much sentimental as they are informational and I couldn't get enough.

I felt slightly mocked when hearing about the physical dedication it takes to be an Olympic athlete.  My lack of motivation to get to the gym for an hour everyday seems so pathetic when compared to the several hours a day the typical Olympic athlete trains.  While  I let a little laziness get in the way of a gym outing, the world record-holding swimmer, Natalie Coughlin, hits the pool 7 days a week for a 5 hour long workout even if the outside temperature is lower than the pool temperature.

So the next time you feel like excusing yourself from the gym for trivial reasons, think about those athletes who dedicate their entire lives to physical perfection.  Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson has determination above and beyond her tiny 4’9’’, 90 lb frame and her young age (just 15 years old).  The reigning world champion makes her Olympic debut this Friday and disclosed to the New York Times today that she writes poems to escape from the pressures of her demanding life.  One poem titled Champion keeps her so motivated she painted it on her headboard, 

“You fear the loss and pain of defeat;
But still are able to stand on two feet;
You crumble and cry as much as you want;
But nothing can keep you away from the hunt.
This is what you’ve been working for.”

Let these be words of inspiration to all of you not only in your fitness endeavors, but any challenge you face.  Forget Batman, Hancock and the Incredible Hulk, the super humans of the Olympics should be hailed as the real superheroes of this summer. 
 
To follow the Olympics blog-style, check out the following sites:
 
 
 

August 13, 2008

A Golden Day – An Inside Look at the Beijing Olympics

I have a few things to be excited about today. For starters, I dropped another 2 pounds of body fat by working out at LA Boxing, the largest Boxing, Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts Training Organization in the world. They are also leading the fitness industry with The LA Boxing Workout™: the very best, most authentic and effective boxing training possible. It’s an awesome workout and I’m banking on seeing a six pack shortly.

Second, Michael Phelps is officially the best Olympian athlete in history. I must admit that I got a little choked up when he won his fifth gold medal and broke his fifth world record. If nothing else, it is one thing that makes me proud to be an American.

Third, I just received a video feed from LA Boxing’s Beijing correspondent. She’s there shooting footage to give us a behind-the-scenes look at the summer games. Since I’m not fortunate enough to be there myself, it’s the next best thing to watching the games on television. I also appreciate the documentary feel I get from watching the raw footage. You can check it out too by clicking on the link below. Also, make sure to check out LA Boxing’s YouTube page daily for new feeds. You can find them at http://www.youtube.com/user/LABoxingWorkout, or visit their main website at www.LABoxing.com to find a gym in your area.

August 19, 2008

Fitness PR: 24 Hour Fitness

A Master Class in PR Partnerships at 24 Hour Fitness 

California based chain, 24 Hour Fitness, has choosen celebrity endorsed centers as part of their Fitness Public Relations strategy to combat forecasted consumer frugality. Celebrity endorsements might not be a new form of PR, but the cross-promotional tactic has been enjoying frequent use across many industries recently. High-profile personalities have been linking themselves with clothing collections, perfumes, restaurants, television shows, record labels--it seems no single product/service/idea cannot avoid being branded with a well-known person including fitness centers.

jeter 24

Jeter24 is the latest of 24 Hour Fitness owned gyms to open that feature a superstar affiliation. Derek Jeter was chosen to not only be the ambassador of the New York City centers, but also to be closely involed with the design of the gym. Jeter joins the ranks of Andre Agassi, Lance Armstong, Jackie Chan, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Shaquille O' Neil as "24" owners. The chain chose these athletes in accordance with their shared attitude towards physical activity.

24 Hour Fitness has attributed much of their success to endorsement. Their first major one was with the United States Olympic team. The success of this conventional partnership was expected, but left 24 Hour Fitness wondering what other organizations and personalities they could link up with to further elevate their image.

They worked with NBC to launch the reality show, "The Biggest Loser." In exchange for designing the gym that would center the weight loss activities of contestants on the show, 24 Hour Fitness reaped the brand identity benefits of a partnership made in heaven. The fitness chain discovered an edge that would eventually propel them past their competitors (they are now the largest gym in the world in terms of membership).

Judging by 24 Hour Fitness' success, celebrity endorsement is a solid PR strategy. The first Jeter24 location in New York City had 700 members before it even opened it's doors. What is it about an athlete designing a center that makes it more superior than the plethora of choices a Manhattanite has on their side? Do we think we will achieve the determination of Armstrong or the physical perfection of Jeter by working out in their respective centers?

If we see that a luxury fitness center chain is responsible for designing a gym that television contestants use, do we feel we will share their results if we attend that same gym chain?

Whatever the attraction is, 24 Hour Fitness can be an example of successful PR partnerships.

Fitness PR: 24 Hour Fitness

A Master Class in PR Partnerships at 24 Hour Fitness 

California based chain, 24 Hour Fitness, has choosen celebrity endorsed centers as part of their Fitness Public Relations strategy to combat forecasted consumer frugality. Celebrity endorsements might not be a new form of PR, but the cross-promotional tactic has been enjoying frequent use across many industries recently. High-profile personalities have been linking themselves with clothing collections, perfumes, restaurants, television shows, record labels--it seems no single product/service/idea cannot avoid being branded with a well-known person including fitness centers.

jeter 24

Jeter24 is the latest of 24 Hour Fitness owned gyms to open that feature a superstar affiliation. Derek Jeter was chosen to not only be the ambassador of the New York City centers, but also to be closely involed with the design of the gym. Jeter joins the ranks of Andre Agassi, Lance Armstong, Jackie Chan, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Shaquille O' Neil as "24" owners. The chain chose these athletes in accordance with their shared attitude towards physical activity.

24 Hour Fitness has attributed much of their success to endorsement. Their first major one was with the United States Olympic team. The success of this conventional partnership was expected, but left 24 Hour Fitness wondering what other organizations and personalities they could link up with to further elevate their image.

They worked with NBC to launch the reality show, "The Biggest Loser." In exchange for designing the gym that would center the weight loss activities of contestants on the show, 24 Hour Fitness reaped the brand identity benefits of a partnership made in heaven. The fitness chain discovered an edge that would eventually propel them past their competitors (they are now the largest gym in the world in terms of membership).

Judging by 24 Hour Fitness' success, celebrity endorsement is a solid PR strategy. The first Jeter24 location in New York City had 700 members before it even opened it's doors. What is it about an athlete designing a center that makes it more superior than the plethora of choices a Manhattanite has on their side? Do we think we will achieve the determination of Armstrong or the physical perfection of Jeter by working out in their respective centers?

If we see that a luxury fitness center chain is responsible for designing a gym that television contestants use, do we feel we will share their results if we attend that same gym chain?

Whatever the attraction is, 24 Hour Fitness can be an example of successful PR partnerships.

Fitness PR: 24 Hour Fitness

A Master Class in PR Partnerships at 24 Hour Fitness 

California based chain, 24 Hour Fitness, has choosen celebrity endorsed centers as part of their Fitness Public Relations strategy to combat forecasted consumer frugality. Celebrity endorsements might not be a new form of PR, but the cross-promotional tactic has been enjoying frequent use across many industries recently. High-profile personalities have been linking themselves with clothing collections, perfumes, restaurants, television shows, record labels--it seems no single product/service/idea cannot avoid being branded with a well-known person including fitness centers.

jeter 24

Jeter24 is the latest of 24 Hour Fitness owned gyms to open that feature a superstar affiliation. Derek Jeter was chosen to not only be the ambassador of the New York City centers, but also to be closely involed with the design of the gym. Jeter joins the ranks of Andre Agassi, Lance Armstong, Jackie Chan, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Shaquille O' Neil as "24" owners. The chain chose these athletes in accordance with their shared attitude towards physical activity.

24 Hour Fitness has attributed much of their success to endorsement. Their first major one was with the United States Olympic team. The success of this conventional partnership was expected, but left 24 Hour Fitness wondering what other organizations and personalities they could link up with to further elevate their image.

They worked with NBC to launch the reality show, "The Biggest Loser." In exchange for designing the gym that would center the weight loss activities of contestants on the show, 24 Hour Fitness reaped the brand identity benefits of a partnership made in heaven. The fitness chain discovered an edge that would eventually propel them past their competitors (they are now the largest gym in the world in terms of membership).

Judging by 24 Hour Fitness' success, celebrity endorsement is a solid PR strategy. The first Jeter24 location in New York City had 700 members before it even opened it's doors. What is it about an athlete designing a center that makes it more superior than the plethora of choices a Manhattanite has on their side? Do we think we will achieve the determination of Armstrong or the physical perfection of Jeter by working out in their respective centers?

If we see that a luxury fitness center chain is responsible for designing a gym that television contestants use, do we feel we will share their results if we attend that same gym chain?

Whatever the attraction is, 24 Hour Fitness can be an example of successful PR partnerships.

August 22, 2008

NFL Fitness Tips from Jets Safety, James Ihedigbo

Numbered are the weekends of barbeques and pool parties with summer quickly coming to an end. Even though hot dogs and hamburgers will be put to bed until next summer, partying certainly doesn’t end with the warm weather. It’s called football season—and people gather to watch the games on their HD Plasmas nearly every weekend. Our football favorites have been hard at work on the off-season to make sure you get your Direct TV NFL Ticket’s worth.

I had the opportunity to sit down with James Ihedigbo, safety of the New York Jets, to talk about just what kind of work he's been doing to get ready for this season and what we as non-athletes can take from his regiment to be more physically fit. Obviously none of us are aspiring to have biceps the size of Ihedigo, but we can learn a thing or two from someone whose job it is to exercise and play a sport demanding the greatest in agility and strength. And if you are after the physique of an NFL player, good luck. His mammoth muscles are from some extremely hard work.

The super talented football player comes out of UMass and is in his second year playing in the NFL. James lives by the motto, "To whom much is given, much is expected.” He has never let natural talent stop him from working as hard as humanly possible. He was injured in training camp last summer and was out the remainder of the season so this year is big. That's where the hard work comes into play. Check out James in action in a typical off-season work out:

Now, I'm sure you won't be running to the nearest open field with a 75lb medicine ball and hoisting it over your head, backwards I might add, as James so effortlessly displayed above. So here are some tips from pro-athlete to Joe and Jane Average:

Continue reading "NFL Fitness Tips from Jets Safety, James Ihedigbo" »

NFL Fitness Tips from Jets Safety, James Ihedigbo

Numbered are the weekends of barbeques and pool parties with summer quickly coming to an end. Even though hot dogs and hamburgers will be put to bed until next summer, partying certainly doesn’t end with the warm weather. It’s called football season—and people gather to watch the games on their HD Plasmas nearly every weekend. Our football favorites have been hard at work on the off-season to make sure you get your Direct TV NFL Ticket’s worth.

I had the opportunity to sit down with James Ihedigbo, safety of the New York Jets, to talk about just what kind of work he's been doing to get ready for this season and what we as non-athletes can take from his regiment to be more physically fit. Obviously none of us are aspiring to have biceps the size of Ihedigo, but we can learn a thing or two from someone whose job it is to exercise and play a sport demanding the greatest in agility and strength. And if you are after the physique of an NFL player, good luck. His mammoth muscles are from some extremely hard work.

The super talented football player comes out of UMass and is in his second year playing in the NFL. James lives by the motto, "To whom much is given, much is expected.” He has never let natural talent stop him from working as hard as humanly possible. He was injured in training camp last summer and was out the remainder of the season so this year is big. That's where the hard work comes into play. Check out James in action in a typical off-season work out:

Now, I'm sure you won't be running to the nearest open field with a 75lb medicine ball and hoisting it over your head, backwards I might add, as James so effortlessly displayed above. So here are some tips from pro-athlete to Joe and Jane Average:

Continue reading "NFL Fitness Tips from Jets Safety, James Ihedigbo" »

August 25, 2008

Beijing Olympics Behind-the-Scenes Coverage: Beach Volleyball Match

Guest Post from Julie Freeman

When it comes to working out, I hate going to the gym because I don’t stay engaged during my workout. That’s one of the reasons I began working out at LA Boxing. There’s always something new to try, I’m constantly being challenged and I’m never bored.

When I’m not boxing though, I usually like to hit the hiking trail or go to the park with some friends. Now that I’m back from the Beijing Olympics though, I’m inspired to start playing beach volleyball. I can’t say that I’m any good at it, but after watching the Chinese women’s team, I’m eager to learn.

Check out one of my behind-the-scenes clips from the 2008 Beijing Olympics. This one features a few clips cut together of the men’s and women’s games.

 

Also be sure to check out our previous post with behind the scenes video from the Olympics.

August 26, 2008

Beijing Olympics Behind-the-Scenes Coverage: Boxing USA vs. Bulgaria

What do you get when you put boxers from USA and Bulgaria in the ring together? One heck of a fight.

In this clip filmed behind the scenes by LA Boxing, Javier Molina, the 2007 National Champion in boxing, is taking on one of Bulgaria’s toughest. In the end, Bulgaria won this match, but Molina put up a really great fight. Check out this clip of the two going head to head.

Beijing Olympics Behind-the-Scenes Coverage: Boxing USA vs. Bulgaria

What do you get when you put boxers from USA and Bulgaria in the ring together? One heck of a fight.

In this clip filmed behind the scenes by LA Boxing, Javier Molina, the 2007 National Champion in boxing, is taking on one of Bulgaria’s toughest. In the end, Bulgaria won this match, but Molina put up a really great fight. Check out this clip of the two going head to head.

In Honor of the U.S. Open: Tennis Fitness Tips

With the U.S. Open underway this week, I thought it would be an appropriate time to discover the benefits of a tennis-based workout. I searched the web for some tips on incorporating this fun, fast-paced sport into your fitness routine so you can rock Federer calves, Williams biceps, and Nadal Abs.

Rafael Nadal (the bottom most athlete above), the world's current number one tennis male, is every woman's dream man: talented, muscular, handsome, muscular, sexy...did I say muscular? It's true, Nadal's muscles are a prototype for every woman's fantasy and every man's physical ideal. Rory Cordial, performance coach for professional tennis players and physical therapist, formulated some off-court moves for Men's Fitness Magazine to either improve your tennis game or simply get your body in tip top tennis shape.

And as for us females, wouldn't we all like to have the physique of Miss Maria Sharapova? Check out this clip to see a on court great tennis workout that will get you closer to the well defined limbs of the tennis star beauty.

If you aren't a tennis player then don't fret. You needn't hit the courts or even the gym to get your upper body in tennis shape. My personal experience with tennis only comes via Nintendo Wii and let me tell you- I've gotten rather sore in the aftermath of a long Wii tennis session. Who would have ever thought I'd work muscles I never knew I had by whacking a virtual tennis ball around my living room?

So now you have tennis workout options in the gym, on the court, and (thanks to modern technology) in your living room. Since going to U.S. open is a stretch for me, (you know it's the hottest ticket in town when Anna Wintour actually leaves her perch at Vogue to attend) I am going to host a U.S. open party instead. I'll serve the official cocktail the Honey Duece, watch the matches, and challenge my guests to a Wii Tennis Tournament. I encourage you to find some way of incorporating this age old sport into your lives whether it be for fitness or fun.

In Honor of the U.S. Open: Tennis Fitness Tips

With the U.S. Open underway this week, I thought it would be an appropriate time to discover the benefits of a tennis-based workout. I searched the web for some tips on incorporating this fun, fast-paced sport into your fitness routine so you can rock Federer calves, Williams biceps, and Nadal Abs.

Rafael Nadal (the bottom most athlete above), the world's current number one tennis male, is every woman's dream man: talented, muscular, handsome, muscular, sexy...did I say muscular? It's true, Nadal's muscles are a prototype for every woman's fantasy and every man's physical ideal. Rory Cordial, performance coach for professional tennis players and physical therapist, formulated some off-court moves for Men's Fitness Magazine to either improve your tennis game or simply get your body in tip top tennis shape.

And as for us females, wouldn't we all like to have the physique of Miss Maria Sharapova? Check out this clip to see a on court great tennis workout that will get you closer to the well defined limbs of the tennis star beauty.

If you aren't a tennis player then don't fret. You needn't hit the courts or even the gym to get your upper body in tennis shape. My personal experience with tennis only comes via Nintendo Wii and let me tell you- I've gotten rather sore in the aftermath of a long Wii tennis session. Who would have ever thought I'd work muscles I never knew I had by whacking a virtual tennis ball around my living room?

So now you have tennis workout options in the gym, on the court, and (thanks to modern technology) in your living room. Since going to U.S. open is a stretch for me, (you know it's the hottest ticket in town when Anna Wintour actually leaves her perch at Vogue to attend) I am going to host a U.S. open party instead. I'll serve the official cocktail the Honey Duece, watch the matches, and challenge my guests to a Wii Tennis Tournament. I encourage you to find some way of incorporating this age old sport into your lives whether it be for fitness or fun.

September 11, 2008

Fitness Trends: Excercise Strength Shoes

The Subliminal Workout: Footwear that Improves Muscle Tone

Recently someone asked me what I did to keep my legs in shape.  Since I couldn’t recall the last time I’ve really done an exercise to target my legs in that place I vaguely remember being called a gym,  I responded with three simple words- “commute in heels.”  I know that stacking up my soles forces me to stand straighter, engage my core and ignite my leg muscles all to a greater extent.

For those of you not brave (or crazy) enough to trade your “walking shoes” for four inches of an escalator hazard, there’s a safer alternative. I found three fitness shoes that will help burn more calories and improve muscle tone by simply walking around:





FitFlop:   The most well known of the “strength shoes,” with many thanks to Oprah.  From the FitFlop website,  I learned my heel wearing habits are actually very bad for my feet and these shoes will provide better orthodic support while claiming to improve muscle tone from the buttocks down to the calves.
Fashion + + + Function + + Fiscal +++

Othrotebb

Orthotebb:  Before you pass them off as Crocs Knocs—consider the added benefits of improving circulation.  Great circulation is cellulite’s and varicose veins’ worst enemy.  Conclusion, we like circulation.
Fashion +  Function + + + Fiscal ++


MBT Footwear

MBT Footwear:  These pricey kicks claim similar benefits as the Orthotebb pair, but come in the most fashion forward designs of all three.   Swiss Engineering never runs cheap but often delivers unparallel results.
Fashion +++ Function +++ Fiscal

Just think of how many minutes you could shave off your workout if you built leg strength while running errands or getting to and from work everyday. As long as you aren’t marching your way to Krispy Kreme, the extra caloric activity should help you shed unwanted fat.

Are there other ways to incorporate exercise into our regular day’s activities?  Being so busy can often put the gym on the backburner so I’m sure I wouldn’t be the only one benefitting from such advice.

*the “fiscal” rating indicates price value i.e. + is poor value and +++ is the best value

Fitness Trends: Excercise Strength Shoes

The Subliminal Workout: Footwear that Improves Muscle Tone

Recently someone asked me what I did to keep my legs in shape.  Since I couldn’t recall the last time I’ve really done an exercise to target my legs in that place I vaguely remember being called a gym,  I responded with three simple words- “commute in heels.”  I know that stacking up my soles forces me to stand straighter, engage my core and ignite my leg muscles all to a greater extent.

For those of you not brave (or crazy) enough to trade your “walking shoes” for four inches of an escalator hazard, there’s a safer alternative. I found three fitness shoes that will help burn more calories and improve muscle tone by simply walking around:





FitFlop:   The most well known of the “strength shoes,” with many thanks to Oprah.  From the FitFlop website,  I learned my heel wearing habits are actually very bad for my feet and these shoes will provide better orthodic support while claiming to improve muscle tone from the buttocks down to the calves.
Fashion + + + Function + + Fiscal +++

Othrotebb

Orthotebb:  Before you pass them off as Crocs Knocs—consider the added benefits of improving circulation.  Great circulation is cellulite’s and varicose veins’ worst enemy.  Conclusion, we like circulation.
Fashion +  Function + + + Fiscal ++


MBT Footwear

MBT Footwear:  These pricey kicks claim similar benefits as the Orthotebb pair, but come in the most fashion forward designs of all three.   Swiss Engineering never runs cheap but often delivers unparallel results.
Fashion +++ Function +++ Fiscal

Just think of how many minutes you could shave off your workout if you built leg strength while running errands or getting to and from work everyday. As long as you aren’t marching your way to Krispy Kreme, the extra caloric activity should help you shed unwanted fat.

Are there other ways to incorporate exercise into our regular day’s activities?  Being so busy can often put the gym on the backburner so I’m sure I wouldn’t be the only one benefitting from such advice.

*the “fiscal” rating indicates price value i.e. + is poor value and +++ is the best value

September 16, 2008

Fitness Class Trends: AntiGravity Yoga

Weigh-less-ness Yoga
AntiGravity Yoga is No Light Weight in the Fitness Industry
antigravity yoga
Just when you thought there couldn't possibly be another yoga blend technique, AntiGravity Yoga comes at us with full force (or in this case no force at all). 'Wings' AntiGravity Yoga classes are offered at Crunch Fitness Centers (in New York, LA and Miami) based on the AntiGravity Yoga concept created by Christopher Harrison that utilizes a silk hammock to add a weightless dimension to traditional yoga and Pilates movements.

anitgravity bootsChristopher Harrison is the man responsible for Team AntiGravity, a performance troupe that not only defies gravity, it completely ignores it.  Harrison's bouncing dancers (fully equipped in his patented "gravity boots"), floating and flipping acrobats, and bungee-attached performers have been commissioned by superstars Britney Spears, Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, and Marc Jacobs as well as companies Disney and Universal.

AntiGravity Yoga's concept closely resembles the company's mission statement, "We defy gravity as a means to inspire levity."  Silk hammocks suspended from the ceiling offer a means to challenge the body in ways gravity normally wouldn't allow.  Harrison designed this workout around movements of dance, Pilates, and yoga and the following are benefits of regular class attendance:
    -decompress tight joints
    -align the vertebrae of the spine
    -hold more challenging yoga postures longer
    -stretch further with less strain
    -have better body awareness
    -increase overall agility

Crunch currently holds the exclusive rights to 'Wings' AntiGravity Yoga classes, but I have a feeling variations of this technique will become more readily available in the near future. Does this weightless workout sound appealing to you? Are we jaded by the many balletyogalate classes already offered or is this concept fresh and unique?

October 6, 2008

Protecting Yourself from the Need of a Personal Health Bailout

Some of us might be taking the recent headlines as an order to re-evaluate your budget.  I can bet a lot of us might be looking at gym memberships as a cost you can do without.  In a stressful time in your life, a gym membership could be the most important investment you make.   Here are my top three reasons why it’s a no risk-high return investment that we shouldn’t ignore (and what sounds better than a no risk high return investment right now?):

dumbells


1. Mental-health booster: Do I need to remind you that exercise helps relieve stress and promotes overall mental health?  The overall benefits from exercise are so numerable that if you could bottle them up, the potion would be the hottest selling drug on the market.  It is guaranteed that exercise will renew your energy and help you sleep better.  So by depriving yourself of exercise is completely counterproductive in coping with any economic challenges you may face.

 2. A fit person is a more confident one.  What does confidence often lead to? Better opportunities. And as we all know—the words “better opportunities” can also be defined as more money. Exercising gives you a sense of self-worth that cannot be measured in dollar value.

3. It actually saves you money.  When do you feel the most compelling urge to buy something new? I know I am the most vulnerable to the wrath of retail therapy when I feel badly about myself.  If you are working out on a regular basis, you are improving your appearance (and confidence) without any help from a pair of black patent leather Louboutins. 

So that I am not promoting living beyond your means (one of the things many financial advisors have cited as the undermining of our nation's financial challenges), I want to offer in-home fitness tips that can be adapted into your everyday life to reap the same benefits without a monthly bill:

Wii Fit: $90
wii fit 
Wii Fit is a fun way to work out at home.  It keeps track of your progress to keep your motivated to reach objectified goals.
 
Jump-Snap Virtual Jumprope: $58
 
Jumping rope is one of the most beneficial way to exersize.  Don't let the challenge of the activitiy or space limitation stop you from taking advantage of those benefits.  This device makes a snapping sound each time a rope would hit the floor if it was actually there.
 
Fatman Scoop Workout Video: $TBA
fatman scoop 
If you need motivation to get yourself exercising, maybe legendary DJ Fatman Scoop can help you.  I heard the DJ talking about his soon-to-be-revealed fitness video concept that included him DJing and calling out counts in his best club-pumping lingo.  I might buy this for entertainment purposes alone.  Make sure you keep up with the Fitness PR Division Blog to see when it comes out.
 

October 23, 2008

What's Hot In Fitness: Bikram Yoga

While Yoga has solidified itself as a mainstream fitness option, Bikram Yoga has been emerging as one of it's most popular versions, especially as it becomes branded more often as the "yoga to the stars." Developed by Bikram Choudhury of India now based out of Los Angeles with studios globally, Bikram Yoga has been gaining momentum as more than just a trend, but a way of life for those who incorporate Yoga into their everyday fitness routine. Celebrity or not, Bikram Yoga continues to gain a following that has resulted with countless studios opening around the world and the demand for more.

Bikram Yoga is practiced in a room that is heated to a minimum of 105°F with a humidity of 40%. Classes are guided by a specific set of postures and dialogue including 26 postures and two breathing exercises. While the 26 poses may be challenging, most people tend to scoff at the idea of doing yoga in a very hot environment. However, according to Bikram, this is essential to his technique because it detoxifies the body, increases heart rate, improves circulation, improves strength, protects the muscles and prevents the body from overheating.

Heather Park, Manager of Global Communications for MAC Cosmetics has been practicing Bikram Yoga for the last 4 years. She was willing to share her experience and the benefits of this exercise:

Continue reading "What's Hot In Fitness: Bikram Yoga" »

October 30, 2008

LEGWORK High Heel Fitness

 

 

Nothing is sexier than wearing high heels, slap on a pair of your favorite Manolo's or Jimmy Choo's and you are smokin. What's not so hot, is the pain felt at the ball of your foot and charlie horses in your calves after day-long marathons of a busy work day in heels. For those of you who absolutely cannot leave the house without a pair of heels strapped to your feet, but wish there was a way to strengthen your legs so that you walk right and make heel-wearing less painful, Victor Chu (former designer for Ralph Lauren) and Cece Chin (former accessories designer for Michael Kors and Calvin Klein) have come up with a unique way to do just that with LEGWORK High Heel Fitness.

Continue reading "LEGWORK High Heel Fitness" »

For Your Fitness Routine: The Ultimate Workout Playlist

As previously advised, it is supremely important to exercise amidst the economic downturn. That means we should all be taking our stress-relieving workouts to a whole new level.  What better way to pump yourself up than to pump up the volume on a brand new masterfully composed workout playlist.

Where do you find such a thing, you ask? Well, luckily I happen to be a self-proclaimed playlist expert especially when it comes to the association of music with movement.  This skill is a product of many years of dancing semi-professionally.  So get your LEGAL music downloading software ready...(DISCLAIMER: the only material I have consulted in compiling this list was my own iPod)
ear buds
Cardio: The common thread of these workout songs is the pulsing back beat that encourages an even stride while making it fun.

1. "LoveStoned/I Think She Knows (Tiesto Remix)", Justin Timberlake on LoveStoned/I Think She Knows (Remixes) EP
2. "When I Grow Up", The Pussycat Dolls on Doll Domination
3. "Let Me Think About It (Radio Edit)", Ida Corr & Fedde Le Grande on One
4. "Don't Stop the Music", Rihanna on Good Girl Gone Bad.

Abs: A bit slower on the tempo but still an even bass beat to keep you on target with each crunch.

1. "You Ain't Right", Janet Jackson on All for You.
2. "Black Sweat", Prince on Black Sweat/Beautiful, Loved & Blessed Single
3. "The Way I Are (feat. Keri Hilson & D.O.E)", Timbland on Shock Value
4. "Boyz", M.I.A. on Kala

Weight Training: I happen to think hip-hop (inspirational in nature) makes for perfect weight training music.  The lyrics in the songs below are quite literal but you might need Nelly telling you "no one can stop me now" in his Rocky-like anthem below when you are down to those last three reps.

1. "Lose Yourself" Eminem on 8 Mile Soundtrack
2. "Heart of a Champion", Nelly on Sweat
3. "Let It Rock", Kevin Rudolf & Lil' Wayne on Let it Rock Single (also a great abs song)
4. "Get Crunked Up" Iconz on Booty Classics Throwbacks

Yogalates: If ever I can't make it to Bikram, I try to do some positions at home.  Not without the appropriate ambient music of course.  I like my independent yoga/pilates sessions to be motivated with at least a little beat.

1. "The Gentle Dissolve", Thievery Corporation on The Cosmic Game
2. "Breathe", Telepopmusik on Genetic World
3. "Porcelain", Moby on Play
4. "Move for Me (Radio Edit)", Kaskade on Move for Me

 I'd love to hear your favorites, I am always looking for new workout music!

December 9, 2008

Are Cranberry Juice Drinks Healthy?

Not all sugar is bad for you. Some are naturally present in everyday foods; lactose and galactose for example, are organic to milk. However, the sugars that are present in most fruit juices and concentrates were added in a factory and are bad for you. Now, I can easily go the route of all of the potential damaging effects added sugar will do to your health, etc. (did you know that cancer cells thrive in sugar?) but, I won’t. Sugars that are added to our food simply undermines our overall well being.

The added sugar from four ounces of a generic cranberry juice cocktail (four ounces is half the suggested serving. See “Nutrition Facts” image) kept me wide awake until 3 a.m. It is however, important to note that I don’t usually consume fluids with my meals so I drank the “natural juice cocktail” afterwards. Today, I feel, well, “unfruitful” and whatever claims the front of this juice label has made (“a very low sodium food”) have been weakened by an unproductive night’s rest, a direct contributor to a person’s overall well being. How is it that a glass, half full of supposedly healthy juice can interfere with my sleep? Let’s see what’s in it:

Continue reading "Are Cranberry Juice Drinks Healthy?" »

January 10, 2009

Fitness PR: The Benefits of Biking to Work

valencia_bluesteel_resized.jpg Valencia Blue Steel Urban Series Trek Bicycle.

What riding can do your you:
1. Help you lose weight.
2. Help you save money.
3. Help you be more productive at work.

The workout is simple, bike to work.

Biking to work can provide the above benefits and possibly more. Besides saving money on gas and car maintenance, bicycling actually relieves stress and also builds your mental endurance. Biking is an awesome form of physical exercise helping you burn calories (you can amount to 30 calories burned per mile), build your cardiovascular system and workout your heart and lungs.

The roads are more accessible than ever to civilian cyclists. There are many different paths in and around major cities and highways that bicyclists can use to travel to work.

Here are five basic steps to the bicycle commute:
1. Gear up – fine tune and buy necessary safety equipment. See our recommended list of bikes below.
2. Map it out – know where you’re going and take a test run during the weekend or day off.
3. Carpool – consider a bike buddy.
4. Learn the rules - a cyclist also has to obey the rules of the road.
5. Alternate methods – explore bus and rail stops that allow you and your bike to ride.

Here's some great bikes to get you from point A to point B:

Continue reading "Fitness PR: The Benefits of Biking to Work" »

January 15, 2009

Fitness Trend in 2009: Basketball Comes Back into Play

On our main PR blog we've recently been having discussions about how President Obama (not to mention our First Lady!) is helping to fuel some trends and garner publicity for some brands soley through living their everyday lives in the public eye. Every President has had their fitness regimen; exiting President George W. Bush was a runner, as was President Clinton; both solitary exercise routines. Our new President appears to be more into team sports and has a love for basketball. The Associated Press listed basketball having a re-emergence in popularity because of this, therefore becoming a fitness trend for 2009 and I completely agree.

Continue reading "Fitness Trend in 2009: Basketball Comes Back into Play" »

January 22, 2009

Delicious, Healthy, Low-Calorie Brown Bag Snacks

healthy_snacks

Snacking is a delightful habit, but like all habits, it can quickly become an addiction. Here are some low calorie snacks (usually 200 calories and under), that you can "bag." Feel free to comment your suggestions, for additional healthy, low-calorie snacks that I might have missed.

Sun-Maid Mini-Snacks Raisins: Good source of iron, potassium and selenium. Contains vitamin A and some vitamin B. Rich in fiber. (an essential ingredient in my yummy yogurt/almond snack)

Continue reading "Delicious, Healthy, Low-Calorie Brown Bag Snacks" »

January 23, 2009

Diets: The Right and Wrong Diets for the New Year

It's the New Year again. What are your new year’s resolutions? What will you be doing different in 2009? If you’re like many Americans, losing weight is somewhere on your list of goals.
diet%20in%20veggies.jpg
The truth is, not everyone knows how to do it and do it safely. There are so many diet options out there that it is hard to come up with one safe, productive way to lose weight.

Then there are the WRONG ways to diet and lose weight. These are the ways I don’t recommend:

The Juice Fast: Lemon, Orange, Carrot, Grape, whatever it is, its not enough. The basics of losing weight apply, to lose weight effectively you need to burn more calories than you intake. This does NOT mean you eliminate calories altogether and going on a liquid-based diet. Originally based on cleansing, this diet method is a no-go.

Continue reading "Diets: The Right and Wrong Diets for the New Year" »

January 28, 2009

Use the Power of 2 to Lose Weight and Stay Fit

 

In Buddhism, the number two encompass the virtues of resplendence (to be attractive and impressive) through patience and gentleness. Virtue leading to the cessation of suffering through mental tranquility and spiritual insight are also rightly attributed to this popular, even number. And, the definition of “even” is “flat,” “smooth.” Equally balanced.

Use these attributes, these virtues, to carve an impressive and beautifully balanced body for your inner self. This simple-to-follow “2-Rule” will help you lose 20 pounds in 2 months.

Now, before you go on, you must be ready. I don’t mean, “ready to lose weight, cause I’ve been wanting to and I read this blog everyday, so maybe this will work” ready. I am referring to “mentally” ready. You must be motivated to make the time. As I have said before, nothing will ever get accomplished, unless you are ready and willing. The intention and the desire must be there. Then the time will come -- naturally.

If you are really ready then read on...

Continue reading "Use the Power of 2 to Lose Weight and Stay Fit" »

February 2, 2009

Fitness Trends: Dancing Bollywood, Zumba and Ballroom

Lets face it, we all at one point or another try a certain diet or try to motivate ourselves to go to the gym everyday. When trying to lose weight or stay fit why not have some fun? Below are some fun fitness trends that combine rhythmic music that aims to increase cardiovascular fitness and will actually make you enjoy losing weight.

Continue reading "Fitness Trends: Dancing Bollywood, Zumba and Ballroom" »

February 18, 2009

Fitness PR: The Sleep Diet

 

Ever since I had my daughter two years ago, I have been preoccupied with getting back to my pre-baby weight. As such, I enlisted the help of a personal trainer, joined a gym, reduced calories, reduced portion sizes, dieted and tried to starve myself skinny – relax … the starvation only lasted four hours. So when I heard Glamour Magazine was putting the “sleep diet” into effect, I gladly signed up.

Continue reading "Fitness PR: The Sleep Diet" »

February 23, 2009

New Diet: The Cookie Diet

cookiediet.jpgWho stole a cookie from the cookie jar? I stole a cookie from the cookie jar, but it was no ordinary cookie. This cookie was made to help you and I curb appetite and lose weight. The new Dr. Siegal’s Cookie Diet® brand cookie store in Beverly Hills which opened earlier this year is based upon a recipe that has been around for the last thirty years. Dr. Sanford Siegal published his first book in 1975 about his famous cookie-based diet, but can a cookie really help you shed pounds?

Continue reading "New Diet: The Cookie Diet" »

February 24, 2009

Diet and Weight Loss: List of Fat Burning Foods

Going to the gym and exercising every day sounds appealing… but we all know sometimes going to the gym every day doesn’t happen. It would be wonderful eating foods that just burn everything off, but those foods just don’t exist...or do they? Low Glycemic Index (GI) foods are known to burn fat and maybe you've seen this idea marketed with NutriSystem. The basic premise is simple: foods that have a low GI are best for dieters because they promote a slow, moderate rise in blood sugar and insulin after a meal. The glycemic index ranks carbohydrates according to how quickly they tend to raise blood sugar levels after eating, and eating a lot of low glycemic index in your diet, can result in greater reduction of body fat over time.

Here is a list of great low GI foods that will get your body in shape and your hunger in check just in time for bathing suit season:

Continue reading "Diet and Weight Loss: List of Fat Burning Foods" »

February 26, 2009

Fitness Trends: Eco-Friendly Fitness

Eco-Friendly Fitness

Yes, exercise is important for good health. But trying to justify that $60-per-month gym membership (especially when your 401(k) just took the plunge of death) causes stress, which is bad for your health. While going to the gym is no doubt great for fitness and socialization, there are still some of us who want to find more affordable ways to get into shape while our economy recovers. So, how can you exercise without creating a hole in your wallet and the ozone layer?

Continue reading "Fitness Trends: Eco-Friendly Fitness " »

February 27, 2009

Fitness Equipment: Dumbbells for Your Home Workout

I've been away from the gym for almost two weeks now. In workout terms, that is a lifetime or a critical bounce back to the gym bandwagon period. What I decided to do was walk over to the nearest Modell's Sporting Goods store and see if I could pick up a set of dumbbell or barbell weights.

My girlfriend's running weights weren't going to be enough to keep my muscles in shape. Weight training has so many benefits, I barely know where to begin. Staying in and doing the exercises also saves time and gas. With most core workouts, you can improve your balance thus protecting yourself from unnecessary injuries. Weights can also work to strengthen your bones retarding bone loss and increasing bone density, increasing lean muscle tissue and metabolism will in turn burn more calories and fat. One of the long-term benefits include combating osteoporosis. A veteran to a few minor gym injuries, I have to remind you to use proper lifting techniques and equipment. Here are a few exercises to get you started:

Continue reading "Fitness Equipment: Dumbbells for Your Home Workout" »

March 2, 2009

Liquid Oxygen: The Next Miracle Supplement?

WPR%20o2%20liquido.png

How many nutritional supplements are you taking? If you are a veteran of the local vitamin store, you could be taking up to 10 different pills depending on your needs. Here is a question though, how many drops are you taking? What if a drop or two of a certain substance could replace many if not all your supplements? The hippest and newest thing out of the Miami nutritional world, the O2 Spa Bar, released their new Liquid Oxygen drops to the market. They may have just stumbled upon the fountain of youth or something close to it. Scientific claims have been made that the supplement improves health and mental well-being. Oxygen, being a necessary intake of all our lives, is the miracle ingredient.

Continue reading "Liquid Oxygen: The Next Miracle Supplement?" »

March 5, 2009

Fitness Social Networking: Sparkpeople.com

Sparkpeople.com, an interactive, social media site that is the perfect way to get your fitness regime back on track before bikini season. The site is not based on calorie counting, but creating a healthy eating routine, allowing users to become more conscious of what is going into his or her bodies. 

The site not only helps users track calorie intake, but also provides suggestions for leading a healthier lifestyle. Each day has a new exercise, which the user will get “SparkPoints” for doing. Also, the site recommends healthy meals, recipes and suggestions for food intake, making it easier to pick a meal and know the facts before consuming anything.

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March 9, 2009

New Balance for Nine West Collection

Nine West/New BalanceWhen I go to the gym, there's always some part of me that still wants to look pretty. I just can't allow myself to look deshelved when I'm out in public. Thus, I buy cute workout clothes. I know other women do too, because my size is usually sold out in the cute skorts that tennis players wear. Of course, shoes are included in this. It's so hard to find cute athletic shoes that don't make your feet look huge. And why? Don't they know they're making these shoes for women?

Well, Nine West and New Balance have answered our prayers. The luxury shoe maker and the athletic shoe maker have teamed up to make just that: a luxury athletic shoe. The shoes are dubbed "the perfect combination of performance and fashion" on Nine West's website. No longer must we endure clonking around in too-wide sneakers at the gym. Now we can wear shoes that are form-fitting and hip. So, will they sell or just go on sale?

Continue reading "New Balance for Nine West Collection" »

March 10, 2009

Fitness Trend: Face Yoga

 

Instead of going under the knife, men and women across the country are trying a new twist on an old favorite: face yoga. The practice will smooth and prevent wrinkles on your face, regardless of age. Similar to the classic, age-old practice of yoga, this new form will stimulate anti-aging hormones and make your feel younger and fresher than ever. Even better, the cost is almost minimal; you can do face yoga with a group of friends, in the privacy of your own home, or at a busy day at the office.

Continue reading "Fitness Trend: Face Yoga" »

March 11, 2009

Diet Trend: The Japanese Diet

Due to their eating habits, the Japanese are known to be one the healthiest people in the world. Not only are they expected to live longer, they enjoy being the number one lowest obesity rate on earth. The Japanese also have lower rates of heart disease, osteoporosis, breast and prostate cancer than us in the United States. So what is different in the Japanese diet?

 

The benefits of the Japanese-style eating is that you eat more filling lower calorie foods served in pretty little dishes and plates. One of the benefits they stress is eating with your eyes by enjoying the looks of your food. In Japan they serve their food on separate small plates and bowls instead of one large plate like we are used to. Serving smaller portions are one of the reasons why it is so much easier to maintain a healthier weight. To try this, try replacing salad or dessert plates instead of a big serving plate, and you might notice that you will eat less. Eating slowly results in eating less giving your brain more time to realize you are full…plus you get to savor your foods for longer. The Japanese claim that when consuming your meal, you should eat until you are about 80% full.

Here are some foods that are included in the Japanese diet:

Continue reading "Diet Trend: The Japanese Diet" »

March 12, 2009

Dairy Alternative: Hemp Seed Nutrition

 

Although most vegetarians are relatively healthy, a nutritionally balanced and protein rich diet may be deficient for some. Enzymes and amino acids, found in meat and dairy products are essential and aren't naturally produced by the body.

Continue reading "Dairy Alternative: Hemp Seed Nutrition" »

March 13, 2009

New iPhone Application Montiors Heart Rate and Fitness

Since its launch, the iPhone has become all the things anyone could want in a special partner.  It can do everything from giving you directions to your favorite restaurant, to playing a wide array of video clips at the touch of a button.  But never before could anyone fathom the thought of their iPhone becoming their own personal trainer. 

Technology developer iTMP Technology, Inc. developed a fitness tracking and heart monitor system that was designed specifically for the iPhone.  By leveraging the iPhone’s technology, they made the fitness tracking experience sleek, fun and simple. 

How does it work?

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March 16, 2009

Weight Loss Book: Bethenny Frankel's Naturally Thin

In a sea of books proclaiming to make you skinnier with thirty-day detox diet’s, Bethenny Frankel’s Naturally Thin: Unleash Your SkinnyGirl and Free Yourself from a Lifetime of Dieting is a refreshing and answer to your weight issues. The book, available in bookstores now, provides satisfying meals and guidance to banish those extra pounds and create a healthier lifestyle. The book does not suggest starvation or manic exercise routines, but instead, to simply adapt a more healthful outlook toward meals.

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March 23, 2009

10 Ways to Make Your Foods Safer

Tomato scares, spinach danger, peanut butter recalls, tainted meats -- all are recent public food issues that may have you side-eyeing your next plate of dinner.  With all of the recent health scares, it has become a necessity to arm yourself with different ways to make sure you are eating safer and healthier.

Although we have experienced recent bouts of food issues, the CDC affirms that America's food safety system works and that all the food safety agencies are working hard to collaborate and come up with some ideas on how to improve the meat and produce industry as a whole.

While the food industry and the CDC do their parts to ensure our health, we can also play a role in monitoring our food intake and protecting ourselves from hazardous produce.  Here are ten things you can do:

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March 24, 2009

Spring Forward with Outdoor Exercise

Adirondack MtnsAs of last Friday, it is spring--finally! This is great news for all the northerners who have been suffering in the snow for months. If you aren't lucky enough to have a home gym and you live somewhere that gets too cold to go outside, you may have taken a break from exercise for the winter season. Don't worry, we did the same thing, and we're not justifying it, but bears can get away with it and so can we!

Well, now you have to stop using the weather as an excuse, because beautiful weather is fast approaching. So, you need to shed some layers, get outside and start moving again. The question is, how can you get motivated? I suggest taking a little trip. You deserve it for weathering the cold for the past season. Plus, it will motivate you to start exercising again. So, where can you go to enjoy some outdoor fun that won't feel like work?

Here are some great outdoor workout suggestions for the springtime:

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Spring Forward with Outdoor Exercise

Adirondack MtnsAs of last Friday, it is spring--finally! This is great news for all the northerners who have been suffering in the snow for months. If you aren't lucky enough to have a home gym and you live somewhere that gets too cold to go outside, you may have taken a break from exercise for the winter season. Don't worry, we did the same thing, and we're not justifying it, but bears can get away with it and so can we!

Well, now you have to stop using the weather as an excuse, because beautiful weather is fast approaching. So, you need to shed some layers, get outside and start moving again. The question is, how can you get motivated? I suggest taking a little trip. You deserve it for weathering the cold for the past season. Plus, it will motivate you to start exercising again. So, where can you go to enjoy some outdoor fun that won't feel like work?

Here are some great outdoor workout suggestions for the springtime:

Continue reading "Spring Forward with Outdoor Exercise " »

March 25, 2009

The Best Foods to Buy Organic and Why

USDA organicWith times they way are, it's important to save money when you can, but your health shouldn't have to suffer because of it. After all, you want to be in good shape when you finally have the option to retire. Organic products continue to be popular despite this economy because they are less damaging to the environment and do not contain harmful pesticides, which continue to have high importance to people. Yet some may still be hesitant to go this route in leiu of saving some dough. So, what organic grocery products are worth the extra cash?

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March 26, 2009

Get in Shape With an Indo Board

Indo boards, commonly known as balance boards, are a must-try for those of us looking to get our bodies in better shape, especially before we hit the beach! Plus, the workout is very simple and will work important parts of your body, like your legs and core. Simply stand on the board with your left and right feet on opposite ends of the board (think surfing on a smaller board). The goal is to keep balanced and prevent the edges of the board from hitting the ground. Best of all, the exercises can be executed by people young and old and the device is portable and easy to use.

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March 27, 2009

Fit to Fly: Reebok and Cirque de Soleil Make Fitness Fun

I do every other type of workout at the gym such as rowing, elliptical, cycling (not a fan), the treadmill and I feel as though it is time to get off the floor. Research conducted by Reebok found that nearly two thirds of all women would work out more if it was more fun, while more than half felt exercise was a chore (which it most definitely can be). Rebook is releasing a new marketing campaign to support the launch of its new product lines and a new workout for women called the Fit to Fly work out. This workout consists of women flying from a steel bar attached to a rope that is attached to the ceiling to boost cardio, strength and balance.

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March 31, 2009

Fitness Trend: e-dieting

I’m not quite sure if it’s the factor of weighing in at group meetings, the lack of desire to talk about food failures with a dietitian or the annoyance of personal trainers, but recent trends show people today have turned to cyberspace to diet. E-dieting has vastly become popular for health conscious individuals and why not? It’s convenient, private and a less expensive alternative to weight loss which allows you to customize your fitness and nutrition plans to fit your needs.

Here are a few great websites to help you shed those pounds:

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April 2, 2009

Fitness PR: Kirtan Yoga at the Integral Yoga Institute

Have you been getting tired of your same old yoga routine? Instead of giving in to monotony, try out kirtan with your favorite yogi and let loose some of that pent up energy. Kirtan is a traditional Indian call-and-response chanting, and can easily be incorporated into your yoga workout. Today, non-traditional instruments have been incorporated into the practice, such as synthesizers and accordions, and some places also use dancing.

For the beginner, simply try the traditional call-and-response method. Not only will this practice help you break out of workout rut, you will also feel the freedom the chanting entices. The Integral Yoga Institute in New York has been partaking in the practice, with participants sitting on cushions facing the musicians. The Integral Yoga Institute provides a variety of classes, ranging from Kirtan Rabbi in Hebrew to kirtan with the Temple Bhajan Band. They also offer classes for children, so the whole family can get involved! There are Integral Yoga Institutes all over the country, including San Francisco and similar studios in New Jersey and Virginia. There’s likely a studio near your town that offers the kirtan practices as well.

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April 6, 2009

Fitness PR: Sources of Vitamin D with Yoplait, Cheerios and One A Day Women's

vitamin DVitamin D is an essential component of a healthy body. It wasn't discovered until 1919 and not much was known about it until about 15 years ago. What we know now is that vitamin D improves calcium absorption. We also know that the sun is one of the easiest ways to prompt vitamin D production within our bodies. Below are some great sources of vitamin D:

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April 14, 2009

Fitness PR: Customize Your Protein Bar Online with ElementBars.com

ElementBars.com lets users design their own custom supplement bars by selecting organic and conventional ingredients and then naming their bar! Each supplement bar is hand made, packaged, and then labeled with its custom bar name and nutritional information. Web users, can "build a bar" directly from their browser by first choosing a bar type (chewy or crispy) and then selecting ingredients. There is even an option to substitute almond butter instead of peanut (assuming you choose chewy, my favorite.)

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April 22, 2009

Fitness PR: Yoga Booty Ballet

If you’re looking to spice up your workout and slim down, nothing works better than Yoga Booty Ballet. The unique program fuses dance and yoga and promises to help you burn off those extra, unwanted pounds. The three workouts will sculpt your mind and body.

Start with the Quickstart video which is under 10 minutes, then move your way up to the more intense Total Toning Basics and Advanced Abs & Booty videos to get your abs and booty in shape before you hit the beach!

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April 27, 2009

Fitness PR: Boot Camp Fitness NYC Offers New Ways to Lose Weight

If you’ve been struggling with diets all year, trying to stick to your resolutions then maybe it’s time to try a new fitness routine. Nothing will work better and get your body in better shape than intense boot camp sessions. Boot Camp Fitness NYC in Brooklyn may be the best place to start. The facility offers indoor and outdoor sessions that are both challenging, fun and will get you in shape! Classes are relatively inexpensive, at only $18 for over an hour’s workout, so you don’t have to feel guilty about loosening your wallet and your waistline. The instructors are there to provide encouragement, so don’t be intimidated by their yelling – you’ll both motivated and “the burn” during these sessions.

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May 4, 2009

Fitness PR: CHAMPRO Sports Softballs Offer a Great Bicep Workout

Changing up your workout routine can certainly be stressful. There are so many options and just not enough time! That’s why softball is a great alternative to your same-old regime. The exercises will work your entire body and strengthen your core. Even better, the windmill pitch will tone your biceps, while placing little stress on your arms! Also, gathering your friends for this group activity is a great way to enjoy the sunshine and spend time together while also working out. Group fitness is just one of the consumer trends we'll be seeing this summer.

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May 5, 2009

Soothe Sore Muscles with Tilvee's Organic Muscle and Joint Recovery Balm

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Tilvee's Muscle and Joint Recovery Balm is formulated for sports injuries such as strains, tendinitis, bursitis, muscle tightness and soreness. It eases sore or stiff muscles, joints and tendons and contains Arnica to minimize bruising.

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May 26, 2009

Fitness PR: Get into Shape Kickboxing at Crunch

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I recently became hooked on kickboxing. Its upbeat and physically demanding workout routine really gets the blood pumping. Not to mention the weight loss involved and definition of my muscle's with each class I take. Kickboxing is a great way to reduce body fat, tone and condition your body, increase strength, cardiovascular endurance, and self-esteem, teaches self defense, and relieves stress.

This type of workout also works to improve your strength and endurance, muscle tone, coordination, balance and flexibility, plus it constantly challenges the body. The estimated calorie burn depending on your body weight and intensity is between 350-500 calories for a 60-minute class. If you are a local New Yorker, Crunch offers classes for both kickboxing and cardio kickboxing. (Check their class finder for a Crunch gym in other cities.)

Here are some beginner tips I found to be quite helpful (and avoid those bad aches):

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June 22, 2009

Fitness PR: Yoga Shakti, Kundalini Yoga Great DVDs for At-home Yoga

 

I'm starting to wonder will we ever see the sun? With the weather being how it has been, going for a run or even walk outside is completely out of the question. So, I’ve been wondering how I can fit exercise into my daily schedule without having to worry about the weather? I've settled upon at-home yoga after reading a recent issue of Shape Magazine.

Shape Magazine offers you five pieces of advice: Study first, plan wisely, equip yourself, get warm and start slow. If you learn the basics from a seasoned expert (and make sure you’ve got it right), you can then take those moves and move your one-hour session into your own living room.

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August 17, 2009

Fitness PR: TrimWater Partners with Wilhelmina Models

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Have we finally learned how the supermodels over at Wilhelmina stay so thin? The announcement that Wilhelmina Models, the talent management firm founded by the late Wilhelmina Cooper, has inked a deal to partner with TrimWater, a four-calorie diet drink has us thinking about this co-branding partnership.

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Nintendo Wii Marketing with Pilates and Daisy Fuentes

With the success of Nintendo's Wii Fit program, more and more interactive fitness games are coming to market. We've seen it with EA Sports Active, The Biggest Loser Fitness Game and Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum. With the success of being the brand spokesperson for Mari Windsor's Pilates series of DVD's, Daisy Fuentes recently launched her own interactive Pilates game for Wii. The branding alone seems like a natural fit for Fuentes, but is it enough to drive its target audience (women) online and to the stores to purchase it?

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August 31, 2009

Watchers Diet Public Relations with Jenny McCarthy

Weight Watchers is holding its second annual Lose For Good Campaign and has brought on Jenny McCarthy as celebrity spokesperson. You may remember McCarthy became the Weight Watchers spokesperson back in 2007 when she lost weight after the birth of her son with the diet plan. The tagline then had been to "Stay an After" which McCarthy has obviously been able to do. The name alone, "Lose For Good" aligns well with McCarthy's image as an activist and weight loss advocate.

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Water Event Marketing and Consumer PR Strategies for the US Open

The U.S. Open kicked off today with a win from Roger Federer (but are you really surprised?) And since tennis is associated with fitness, health and an active lifestyle, Evian has continued its partnership for the 24th year to be the official bottled water at the event. In addition to the continued partnership, they have also kicked off their "Live Young" PR campaign. Have you seen these commercials? It is absolutely brilliant marketing!

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September 2, 2009

Delicious and healthy organic energy bars made by a mom

purebar.jpgSometimes, if we're lucky, we learn a thing or two from our children. Veronica Bosgraaf's daughter decided--at the age of six--that she was now vegetarian. For most non-vegan parents, this might pose a lunch box dilemma. One year later, the certified organic Pure Bar has hit major grocers and is a hit with moms, fitness buffs and vegans everywhere.

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November 2, 2009

Fitness Trends: HIIT Is Quickly Becoming the Hottest Fitness Workout

This is the time of year, besides bathing suit season of course, that we all begin to focus on weight loss. Those impending holiday party invitations are enough to make anyone want to go into hiding until next year...that is, if your body is not where you want it to be to fit into that perfect LBD for these soirees. However, there is a fitness workout that has been gaining speed, quite literally, in the last year that may be just what you need to shed those pounds while retaining the muscle you already have.

High Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT, has become popular among many celebrities and fitness fanatics as well. It is said that HIIT is one of the best ways to burn fat faster than low-intensity cardio. In fact, overall you will burn fat in a shorter duration of time versus longer steady-state exercise. However, as the name of the workout indicates, high intensity means pushing your body to the limit and out of your comfort zone than your typical fitness routine.

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November 9, 2009

Pre-Holiday Diet Communication Marketing

As I mentioned in my post on HIIT, now is the time that more people, especially women, will be focusing on pre-holiday diet and exercise to lose at least 10 pounds prior to holiday festivities (which still subsequently results in that that post-holiday resolution of hitting the gym.) And chances are that while we won't see an increase in pre-holiday gym memberships simply due to cost and time, we will definitely see diet books flying off the shelves and an increase in diet program memberships such as Jenny Craig.

Some of the weight loss books that will prove popular are:

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December 10, 2009

Avoid Holiday Weight Gain by Boosting Fitness and Following Tips From Life123.com

With obesity rates at all time highs, and the season of food, comfort and overindulgence right around the corner, the fear of weight gain is very real for most people. Keep off those pesky holiday pounds by upping fitness this December, and get a jump start on that New Year's resolution with the help of some guidance from Life123.com, a leading source of expert advice.

The winter is a great time to get involved in some outdoor sports that can really get a person's heart rate going. Cardio exercise is imperative for maintaining or losing weight, and can help get the ball rolling for firming and toning of various muscle groups. Skiing, ice-skating and snowshoeing are all terrific exercise for legs and core muscles, but extreme sports aren't for everyone. For something low impact to get blood pumping in the cold winter months, hot yoga and Pilates are great options. These alternative methods of exercise also help to increase flexibility, and can control blood pressure -- a great benefit during the stressful holiday season.

Whether it be intense Tai Chi or simply walking fitness, any amount of physical exertion will help to deter extra bulge from setting up shop on an otherwise healthy body. Exercise isn't the only key to success, however, as moderation is important to remember as well. Diet plans may work in favor for looking svelte on New Year's Eve, but they must be adhered to for the ultimate avoidance of that famous Santa Claus belly fat. Body Mass Index or "BMI" is a good indicator of the amount of dieting and fitness necessary to be healthy, and as long as that is monitored, a little extra eggnog or helping of dessert may not be too much to ask for.

Toast to health this holiday season and the whole family will be reminded of what's important. Everyone can help each other get involved in staying active, opt for healthier choices, and come together as a unit to celebrate what the holidays are about -- without the associated weight gain.

 

December 20, 2009

Vitamin Public Relations: Despite Stresses of Today, Survey Finds Women and Men Set Health and Wellness Goals – But Sex Often Influences Success

How will you achieve the “healthy” part of your New Year's resolutions? Your approach probably depends on whether you’re a woman or a man.

According to a new national survey sponsored by Centrum Ultra multivitamins, a line of scientifically-advanced, gender-and age-specific adult multivitamins, nearly all Americans (93 percent) surveyed have established at least one new health and wellness goal in the past year, but the survey shows that men and women may set different goals.

Seventy-eight percent of women surveyed said in the past year they set goals to eat better and 63 percent said they set goals to lose weight. Women are also more likely than men to take a multivitamin and focus on nutrition-monitoring activities when setting their goals. Men, on the other hand, are more likely than women to set goals to exercise more.

The majority of men and women surveyed felt that women are more successful at setting and achieving health and wellness goals. Many women felt a lack of time and energy prevents them from reaching their goals as they age. In addition, a majority of women felt that age had an impact on their ability to achieve their goals compared to when they were younger. Many men felt a roadblock to achieving their health and wellness goals was that their goals were more overwhelming in scope.

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January 18, 2010

Fitness Myths Debunked: Do You Know Fact from Fiction?

When gearing up to enter the, to some - namely me, unchartered territory of exercise, it’s useful to have a list of do’s and don’ts on hand. Far from being a checklist of gym (park and sidewalk…) etiquette, I stumbled across an article that claimed to ‘bust’ fitness myths. A starting point. Or, the starting block if you will.

We all know that working out regularly “helps the heart and lungs work more efficiently and improves strength, endurance and flexibility,” but there are still a number of tall tales circulating about exercise.

A rumor doing the rounds is that muscle turns into fat when you stop exercising. The good news is that this is biologically impossible. As muscle and fat are different types of tissue, the two are not interchangeable. True, working out will make you gain muscle, burn calories and in turn, reduce fat. So naturally, when you cease exercising muscles fade away. The reassuring thing is, any new bulges that you notice are not the result of muscle transformation, but the increase in fatty deposits. Nice.

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January 26, 2010

Diet & Wellness PR Suggestions for GlaxoSmithKline's alli

In the last week GlaxoSmithKline has had a PR crisis on their hands as the story broke that counterfeit alli, the over the counter weight loss drug, was being sold on eBay. While many times counterfeit anything is made to be similar to the real thing, there is one major difference with the counterfeit diet pill: it contains sibutramine. Sibutramine is something that is typically the ingredient in Dr. prescribed weight loss medications, therefore it can be dangerous to the health of those who unknowingly take it.

GSK has already begun to take steps to warn the public by the alert posted on their main website. They are working closely with eBay to deal with this issue and news outlets are beginning to spread the story.

Here are some PR suggestions to what other things they need to do during this time:

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February 15, 2010

FlipFlop Shoe PR Brand Profile

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.

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February 22, 2010

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

March 1, 2010

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

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.

Continue reading "The Marketing & PR of Fit for Life – Why it Remains So Popular" »

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

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.

Continue reading "The Marketing & PR of Fit for Life – Why it Remains So Popular" »

March 3, 2010

Fitness PR: TW Training NYC Personal Trainers

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.

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March 22, 2010

Baby Knows Best: How to Prevent Childhood Obesity from Day One

10 percent of American children will be overweight by the time their fifth birthday. This alarming statistic combined with the fact that 60% of Americans are considered obese, worries many parents. The book, “Baby Knows Best: How to Prevent Childhood Obesity from Day One,” by Dr. Herbert Goldman explores this issue and draws attention to the facts and risks of this disease.

With advice to parents, the book discusses how childhood obesity develops. Dr. Goldman, who has over 35 years in the infant/childhood obesity field, talks about ways to prevent the issue, as well as provides ways to create healthy eating patterns for children from the start.

Dr. Goldman’s approach bodes well for us, as he promotes eating healthy for life. We love the fact that this issue is being investigated and promoted further. As the portions of food at restaurants only continues to increase, it’s important for parents to have the facts and knowledge about what they’re serving their kids. It may be called a Happy Meal, but childhood obesity isn’t a laughing matter. And we’re glad it’s being taken seriously.

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March 24, 2010

Crystal Cruises NEW Trip of Wellness

Vacations usually mean a break from your normal routine. And that includes your diet and work out routines. Crystal Cruises is out to prove you don’t have to gain ten pounds while on vacation. The September 5 voyage of Crystal Symphony will be completely dedicated to wellness, but the luxury cruise line is still keeping cruise-goers high expectations afloat.

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Jane Fonda Kicks Off World Fitness Day May 1st

I remember growing up in the 70's and 80's to the aerobics craze that was the Jane Fonda Workout. And just as she originally introduced baby boomers approaching middle age to fitness some 30-something years ago, she is doing it again by launching World Fitness Day on May 1st.

The Georgia Dome in Atlanta will be the launch location with only 3000 tickets available, but will also be broadcast live on UStream. On hand will be Richard Simmons, Denise Austin (my personal favorite), Billy Blanks and oddly enough...The Pointer Sisters (not really clear on how they fit in with fitness gurus?) The event will benefit the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, a charity Fonda founded in 1995.

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March 30, 2010

Why We Love Jamie Oliver and His Food Revolution

The Naked Chef is on a mission to tackle childhood obesity starting with our nation's schools. I don't know about you, but my high school lunch days were nothing but a mess of chicken patties, pizza and tatter tots. Nutrition wasn't even a twinkle in the lunch lady's eye. And with the rise in overweight children steadily climbing, how can we not love Jamie Oliver's bold approach at facing an issue head on that we continue to fail miserably at? His Food Revolution looks to do just that.

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April 12, 2010

Gaspari Nutrition PR Brand Profile

Anything that makes us bigger, stronger and leaner must be worth checking out. Gaspari Nutrition’s approach to body-building nutrition supplements is part of the reason so many people prefer it. The brand, built by body builder Rich Gaspari (nicknamed the “Dragonslayer”), developed nine years ago. His well-known reputation as winner of Mr. America, Mr. Universe and 1st Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic Champion helped the Gaspari brand to practically market itself.

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April 13, 2010

Fitness PR: Dr. Jason Karp aka The Running Coach Shares His Secrets

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It’s warming up in the big apple, a time when we start to see those that have gained a few pounds over the winter looking to increase their cardio and drop the weight. Some turn to indoor exercise while others elect to run through our cities parks, alongside our highways and up and down our mega city blocks. Pierce Mattie PR caught up with Dr. Jason Karp aka Coach Jason and The Running Coach. This is what he had to share with us if you are thinking of taking up running this season… 

Tell us a little bit about your background, services to your clients provided and how you got started running. 

It all started with a race once around the track in sixth grade. There was something exciting about running faster than the guy in the lane next to you, something intriguing about how to do it.  Since then, I have been fascinated with the science of athletic performance.

 

While I didn't know at the time exactly what form my career would take, I knew that one of the things I wanted to do was coach, so I took the steps necessary to become as educated as I could in the field of exercise science.  I wanted to be the best, so I searched for schools where I could rub elbows with the best.  After completing my master's degree, I took a job as a head college cross country coach, being one of the youngest in the country.  I also coached high school cross country and track.  When I went back to school for my Ph.D., I started coaching privately, with one runner whom I met through a running group.  While coaching this runner, who qualified for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, I decided that this was the route I wanted to go.  So I created a website, drafted a contract, and started a coaching business.  Now I coach runners all over the country and train other clients in the San Diego area who want to lose weight and get fit.  My service can be best described as passionate and science-driven.

 

What should new runners be aware of when taking up this sport? 

If they keep at it until it becomes natural, they will get to experience many great things. The human body is great at adapting to stress when that stress is applied in small doses.  Most new runners get injured because they increase the stress too much too quickly. Focus on improving endurance first, speed later.

 

Continue reading "Fitness PR: Dr. Jason Karp aka The Running Coach Shares His Secrets " »

April 19, 2010

MODJO Life Diet PR Brand Profile

There’s nothing worse than a lingering hangover. The throbbing headaches, the constant nausea, the list goes on and on. After experimenting with the countless remedies that supposedly cure all, there’s honestly no quick fix. From chugging water to greasy food to eating bananas to drinking coffee, we’ve tried them all. The hangover gods must have been feeling generous when they created MODJO Synergy. It’s an all-natural tablet that can, you guessed it, remedy the symptoms of hangovers.

Continue reading "MODJO Life Diet PR Brand Profile" »

April 26, 2010

Force Factor Sports Supplements Diet PR Brand Profile

There’s only one strength enhancer that’s Harvard tested and Harvard approved. And if we’re going on SAT scores, Force Factor must have scored a perfect 2400 to have been good enough for the Harvard Crew Team. They used Force Factor in 2004 to help the championship team to increase their endurance and strength when they couldn’t find a product to do the job.

Force Factor is a more natural way to bulk up. It’s made of amino acids that help move more oxygen into your muscles, which in turn creates extreme muscle growth and strength gains. Or more simply, Force Factor will pump you up. Force Factor doesn’t contain caffeine like most other strength enhancers. In addition, it boasts nitric oxide boosting arginines, a natural dietary substance which have been known to aid healing woulds, remove waste products from the body and potentially has heart benefits.

Continue reading "Force Factor Sports Supplements Diet PR Brand Profile " »

April 27, 2010

The Perfect 10 Diet PR Review

At Pierce Mattie we know there's no such thing as a perfect diet. But the Perfect 10 Diet comes pretty close. Created by Dr. Michael Aziz, the diet focuses on balancing 10 key hormones that directly relate to health and weight. The three stages, which include foods that are typically banned in most diets, cater to a lifestyle change.

Carbs are okay and as Dr. Aziz points out, low carb diets can wreck critical hormones that assist weight loss. This diet rewrites the food pyramid. Dr. Aziz believes in the 40-20-40 approach; 40% of your calories should come from carbohydrates, 20% from protein and 40% from fat. It encourages whole grains and eating minimal dairy products. It also recommends eating red meat sparingly, as it has been reportedly linked to cancer.

Continue reading "The Perfect 10 Diet PR Review" »

May 10, 2010

Dieting PR: Weight Watchers Continues Celebrity Endorsements with Jennifer Hudson

Typically when you attach a celebrity name to a product it helps move sales. In the diet industry, celebrity makeover stories are big news. No pun intended of course. But the most recent addition to the Weight Watchers spokesperson lineup is Jennifer Hudson, who I personally think is more of a "real person" type celebrity than say Sarah Ferguson or Jenny McCarthy. Will it help keep Weight Watchers relevant with the celebrity weight loss competition of Jenny Craig with Valerie Bertinelli, Sara Rue, Jason Alexander and now Nicole Sullivan?

Continue reading "Dieting PR: Weight Watchers Continues Celebrity Endorsements with Jennifer Hudson" »

May 19, 2010

The PR & Marketing of Soda Continues

I was a long time Diet Coke addict despite warnings from friends in the health and fitness industry that it was destroying my bones. Despite hearing that if I would just quit the syrupy heaven in a bottle, I could potentially lose 10 pounds. Despite the fact that drinking soda rendered me no benefits at all. It was only 3 years ago when I really began monitoring my health, that I decided to give it up for good. So how is soda trying to win back the hearts and minds of their lost long time loyalists like me?

Simply put: position itself as good for you.

Continue reading "The PR & Marketing of Soda Continues" »

May 24, 2010

Soda PR Tips To Keep Consumers Drinking

In the continued action of fighting childhood obesity, lawmakers seem to be following suit to impose a soda tax for those sugary beverages we love to consume. While the tax is aimed at the beverage companies, there is no doubt that the higher price will be passed onto the consumer. Will this sway consumers to purchase diet sodas and beverages that will escape the tax? Or will consumers continue purchasing their favorite soft drinks despite it?

Here are some PR tips for the soft drink companies to keep their consumers drinking:

Continue reading "Soda PR Tips To Keep Consumers Drinking" »

June 7, 2010

The Launch of the NEW Diet Book: I Can Make You Thin by Paul McKenna

Paul McKenna, Ph.D., who has been described as "Dr. Phil” in the UK, is heading to the US with his new book: I Can Make You Thin: The Revolutionary System Used by More Than 3 Million People. He has already helped millions of people battling with weight issue, insomnia, smoking, and self esteem issues through his other best selling self-help books and TV appearance. Within the last three years, Paul McKenna has sold over three million books.

Highly regarded in his self- help expertise, Paul McKenna’s book: I Can Make You Thin: The Revolutionary System Used by More Than 3 Million People is set to change the way you think and rationalize about food by reprogramming your unconscious mind. In it he teaches his readers how to use these psychological techniques and exercises to overcome food cravings and re-program their mind within minutes. By changing how you view food at the subconscious level, you would be able to unlock the secrets to leading a healthier eating lifestyle by channeling out food cravings and the emotional ties to food.

Continue reading "The Launch of the NEW Diet Book: I Can Make You Thin by Paul McKenna" »

June 11, 2010

New York Fitness PR: BeachBody Announces Dr. William E. Wheeler

Health and Fitness portal Beachbody.com, a division of Product Partners, LLC is pleased to announce that Dr. William E. Wheeler, Ph.D., has joined the company as its new Chief Science Officer.

Dr. Wheeler brings over 30 years of experience in the nutrition industry, during which he developed over 6,200 products.

Dr. Wheeler is recognized for his broad knowledge of nutrition and is a highly sought-after speaker on the topic. Dr. Wheeler served as the Staff nutritionist to The President of the United States from 1976 – 1981. In addition, Dr. Wheeler has advised professional athletes about dietary supplements, with clients in the NBA, NFL and MLB. He was Staff Nutritionist to the 1996 U.S. Olympic Decathlon Team and to the 2002 U.S. Olympic Snowboarding Team.

Prior to Beachbody, Dr. Wheeler served as Chief Science Officer at both Isagenix International and Peak Performance Nutrition, Ltd., as well as the Vice President of Research and Development/Technical Services at Global Health Sciences, Inc. He is currently a Professor of Nutrition at Capital University of Integrative Medicine in Washington, DC.

"I am convinced that the combination of exercise, nutrition and excellent supplementation is how the trend of obesity will end in this country. With popular fitness programs like P90X®, Beachbody is in a very unique position to improve the health of this country, and I am excited about the opportunity to help our Customers achieve their health and fitness goals," Dr. Wheeler said of his exciting new role.

"Nothing Beachbody does is ordinary," says Carl Daikeler, CEO of Product Partners. "To continue to be game changers in nutrition as well as fitness, we needed a leader who had enough experience to leap frog to state of the art. We're focused on giving the customer the results they expect, and Bill Wheeler is the absolute best guy to make it happen in a way that's safe and effective."

June 15, 2010

Fitness & Spa PR: Spa Launches New Weight Loss Program

If there are two things I love, it is going to the spa and skiing. My all-time favorite place to ski is Killington. Now New Life Hiking Spa in Killington, Vermont has launched a new weight loss spa vacation package designed to be a combination of hiking, healthy foods and creating healthy eating habits that are targeted to help you lose weight. While this weight loss spa has vacation packages with as few as 2-4 days for stay time, it is their 11-day package that is the most popular.

The 11-day weight loss retreat outlines and enlists realistic solid changes in your eating habits and lifestyle to promote a life-long change to the way you eat and maintain a healthy weight. Since we all know that diets are only a short term solution to a long term goal, this may be why staying at New Life for a longer duration provides a better success rate for weight loss. Rates start as low as $209 per night, but price is determined by the package you choose and occupancy.

While skiing is not on the agenda at this weight loss spa (they are only open May-October), I definitely suggest driving by the slopes and planning an adventure in the winter months. What better way to continue your weight loss goal and stay in shape?

June 21, 2010

GU Energy Fitness PR Profile

If you are in the market to find a health product to help energize you during your exercise routine or those long exhausting workouts, then GU Energy Gel is the product for you. GU Energy products are specifically formulated to energize your body during exercise.

GU Energy Gel was launched in 1994 in Berkeley, CA. And, today, GU remains the market share leader and the premium gel available to endurance athletes. Thousands of athletes around the world agree that GU works in delivering energy fuel from start to finish as they train.

Continue reading "GU Energy Fitness PR Profile" »

June 22, 2010

Diet PR: Mediterranean Diet Still Going Strong

The Mediterranean Diet, which has been promoted as the heart-healthy diet on well-respected sites like WebMD and the Mayo Clinic, and have even grabbed the attention of the American Heart Association, has now been included in the 2010 DGA (Dietary Guidelines for Americans) as an optimal choice for eating healthy.

From the National Institutes of Health, the Mediterranean diet is based on:

  • Plant-based meals, with just small amounts of meat and chicken, when they are used
  • Larger servings of grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and legumes
  • Foods that naturally contain high amounts of fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients
  • Plenty of fish and other seafood that are rich in omega 3 fats
  • Olive oil, a healthy, monounsaturated fat, as the main source of fat used to flavor and prepare foods
  • Food that is prepared and seasoned simply, without sauces and gravies
  • Flavorful meals that bring out the natural taste of foods
  • Dining with others at a relaxed pace 

2010's DGA has a focus on more plant-based nutrition, and recent reports show that it may be the olive oil aspect of this diet that is proving to have the most benefit from following the diet's outline.

Do you follow this lifestyle diet? How has it helped your health?

June 28, 2010

The NEW Fitness Book; Super Body, Super Brain by Michael Gonzalez-Wallace

Are you tired of the same old workout routine? Are you looking for a change in your workout? Perhaps even find a workout that is quick, effective and can fit into your busy schedule?

Human performance trainer and competitive athlete Michael Gonzalez Wallace has written a book called Super Body, Super Brain: The Breakthrough Ten Minute Workout (debuting in December 2010). Super Body, Super Brain describes a step by step revolutionary exercise program combining balance, coordination, and strength training along with challenging multi-tasking movements to improve both your muscles and your brain for just 10 minutes a day.

Exercising for merely 10 minutes, according to a health study done by New York Times, has proven that even the least fit athlete showed evidence that their bodies were indeed burning fat. The program is said to deliver maximum results in minimal time to build upon both body and brain efficiency. More importantly, the more difficult the movement, the more activity in the brain, and the more you’ll benefit from it.

Strength training exercises help to promote weight loss, reduce body fat, enhance immune system, sharpen the mind, and build on muscular strength. The book also includes a nutrition program detailing the 'power brain foods' and easy-to-follow recipes. Pre-order is available at Amazon.com.

July 5, 2010

IDS Sports Wellness PR Profile

If you are serious about body building, then IDS (Innovative Delivery Systems) is for you. Designed with you in mind, IDS offers a line of fat burning, weight loss and protein delivery supplements for men and women body builders. Their products do not contain any ephedra or ephedrine and are formulated with whey protein instead.

The IDS products come in three different options: New Whey Liquid Protein, Multi Pro Whey, and Oatmeal & Whey. The New Whey liquid protein comes in a convenient package and ideal for people looking for protein supplement on the go! New Whey delivers 25 grams of pure protein with no carbs or fat in their 2.9 ounce package (retail at $37.99). There is no need of messy mixing with this product. Plus, the New Whey liquid protein comes in these flavors: Acai Berry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Orange, and Blueberry raspberry.

Continue reading "IDS Sports Wellness PR Profile" »

July 6, 2010

Delicious Vegan, Raw Food at Quintessence NYC

 

First of all, I am not vegan and the only raw food to ever have entered my mouth has been fruits and vegetables on a rare occasion (as in forced by mom as a child.) So when a friend of mine suggested eating at a raw food restaurant in the East Village called Quintessence, I was anything but ecstatic. Yet, I found myself sitting down in this quaint establishment mulling over the menu and thinking that many of the entries sounded pretty good (although I wasn't willing to admit that out loud at the time.)

I opted to play it safe with a salad and selected the arugula sprout with caramelized walnuts. The sweet-spiced fig cardamom dressing was heaven, as was the goji berries sprinkled throughout. My friends had ordered the chips and dip as an appetizer, which were homemade corn chips and flax crackers. I decided to expand on my bravery of stepping foot into the raw food realm and give them a try. Yum! (especially the corn chips.)

Dessert took more convincing, as I wasn't exactly keen on trying a non-dairy homemade ice cream. Yet, as soon as it hit my taste buds, I basically stole the spoon from my friend and proceeded to devour the entire Quintessence ice creme. 

While I may still be a long way from converting to the raw food lifestyle, Quintessence sure helped convince me that raw food can be absolutely delicious. You can see their menu at www.raw-q.com.

July 12, 2010

The Launch of the NEW Diet Book: Living Skinny in Fat Genes

While, we know that there are many contributing factors making us fat such as our genetic disposition, we do not have to be “trapped” forever with that notion. Even though, studies have shown that some are at a higher predisposition of having “fat genes,” Felicia Stoler, a registered dietitian, a nutrition consultant and author of the upcoming book titled Living Skinny in Fat Genes can help ease readers into losing weight efficiently and effectively. Living Skinny in Fat Genes (set to be released Jan 15th, 2011) proves that having a better education on health issues could lead to healthier, happier and fit lives.

Dr. Felicia Stoller, R.D., is a registered dietitian, nutrition and exercise physiologist, journalist, and the host of TLC’s show "Honey, We’re Killing the Kids" has decided to write a book to show readers on how to take control of their own health through her easy and simple to follow health plan. In this book, she discusses the best new dietary foods, new healthy oils, (palm coconut and canola), and seasonal produce to include into your diet.

She outlines in her book how to:

Continue reading "The Launch of the NEW Diet Book: Living Skinny in Fat Genes" »

July 15, 2010

Fitness Communications: 5 Fitness Myths From Personal Trainer, Jan Wyche

StretchToeTouch.jpgWhen it comes to being fit, we know going to the gym is a must, but are we getting the most out of our workout routine once we get there? Here are some common exercise myths we might be guilty of believing in taken from AOL Body's Fitness Myths Demystified with personal trainer Jan Wyche. 

1. Only Eat Protein "The body uses protein, carbs and fat to build muscle," Wyche notes. Additionally, any extra protein that the body doesn’t need could be stored as fat. It’s best that we eat a balanced diet with lots of vitamins and minerals.

2. Stretch Actually, we should never stretch before we run. Studies prove that stretching before exercise can increase our risk for injury, especially when we’re older, and decrease our overall workout performance. Instead, do a 3-5 minute warm up like walking.

Continue reading "Fitness Communications: 5 Fitness Myths From Personal Trainer, Jan Wyche" »

July 19, 2010

ProCaps Laboratories Wellness PR Brand Profile

ProCaps Laboratories has been committed to the safest and most effective nutritional supplements since 1979. They were one of the first wellness brands to begin trailblazing in the “early days” of vitamin supplements. The founder, Andrew Lessman, wanted to help educate the medical profession to enhance the quality of life by understanding the need for vitamins. Throughout his journey in cultivating essential vitamins for the consumers, he used his background in biochemistry to create vitamins that not only fit his health needs, but met the needs of athletes and other health professionals, as well.

Continue reading "ProCaps Laboratories Wellness PR Brand Profile" »

August 4, 2010

Gold's Gym Beefs Up For Social Media Outreach

Fitness Social Media: As thousands of female bloggers descend upon New York City for the 6th annual BlogHer conference, Gold's Gym, the world's leading authority on health and fitness, is inviting all BlogHer '10 attendees to work out -- for free! -- at Gold's Gym Manhattan while in town for the event.  Whether bloggers are looking to stick to their fitness goals while away from home, workout with a friend, or try out a new gym, Gold's Gym is proud to be their gym of choice while in town for the conference.

Gold's Gym, the world's largest co-ed gym, will be offering free two-day passes valid for August 6th and 7th, for all bloggers who pre-register for the pass.  Bloggers will be able to take advantage of a full-service gym, complete with amenities, and participate in a number of Group Exercise (GGX) classes.  Bloggers will also have the opportunity to take advantage of Gold's Gym's highly skilled trainers, who will be on hand to provide fitness tips and answer any questions they may have.  

Located at 250 West 54th Street, Gold's Gym Manhattan is conveniently located, only a few blocks away from The Hilton New York, where BlogHer '10 will be taking place.  To register for a free BlogHer Gold's Gym two-day pass, please email krivera@mww.com.  For more information, log on to www.goldsgym.com.  

August 16, 2010

Fitness PR: "The Situation" Launches a Fitness Video

Mike Sorrentino, aka "The Situation" from MTV's hit reality series The Jersey Shore is extending his 15 minutes of fame well into the holiday season of 2010. Known for his amazing abs (that he really enjoys showing off often), he and his brother Marc along with personal trainer Jon Manfe (otherwise known as The Unit), are releasing a fitness video that he says will get you ripped.

While "The Sitch" may be the butt of jokes for many, it's a pretty smart move to captialize on something that is often buzzed about. The question is, will The Jersey Shore be enough publicity to keep it selling well past the season's shelf life?

*Photo source: The Coast

August 17, 2010

Fitness PR: One Man's Crusade to Get Rid of 200 Million Pounds

It’s tough enough to motivate yourself to lose 10 pounds but Spencer Larson is going beyond that and is trying to motivate 20 million people to lose 10 pounds. Impossible? He doesn’t think so.

“Despite what people think, losing 10 pounds doesn’t have to be difficult,” he says. “I’m confident that once people realize this, lose the weight and get their friends involved, the idea will become contagious and spread.”

Larson, now an elite fitness trainer, is not unsympathetic to the struggles of losing weight. Less than 2 years ago, he was considered overweight at 205 pounds. Larson, like many Americans, worked a desk job during the day and then enjoyed relaxing on the couch in the evenings. Since then, he has lost 35 pounds and became inspired to help others do the same.

He co-created the 20 Second Fitness program, a high-intensity, anaerobic, interval-training program. Although the program only involves a four to 12 minute a day workout, he realizes that he can do more to help others lose weight.

Larson then started the 20 Million 10 Pounds Challenge in May of this year by launching the website http://20million10pounds.com. Here, visitors can sign up to accept the challenge to lose 10 pounds and receive tips and words of encouragement to help with the weight loss. The website also features his video series, “Off the Couch,” which showcases adventurous and fun ways to get active in any community. Some of his activities include bull riding, mixed martial arts training with a professional fighter, hiking and racing a triathlon.

“Wikipedia lists more than 400 activities that are considered sports – everyone can find something that they enjoy and are passionate about to keep moving and stay motivated,” explains Larson. “Getting off the couch is the first step to changing your life, your perspective and your weight.”

Continue reading "Fitness PR: One Man's Crusade to Get Rid of 200 Million Pounds" »

September 8, 2010

Lifestyle PR: Hollywood Diet

Do you secretly dream of having a body like your favorite celebrity? If you want to have a figure that screams "I belong in Hollywood!" then your best bet is to try the Hollywood Diet. The Hollywood Diet is a detox system that defies all odds. Dubbed the "miracle diet," this system can help you lose as many as five pounds in as little as twenty-four hours. Although proven to not be a permanent fix, it is the best solution for shredding those stubborn pounds just in time for your big event.

The Hollywood Diet is not your typical meal system. Instead, you have two options: cookies or detox body cleanse. In order to restrict you from taking in unnecessary calories, eating four cookies replaces your usual breakfast and lunch. The cookies provide enough vitamins, minerals and fiber to leave you feeling satisfied for a longer period of time. The detox drinks, however, are what The Hollywood Diet is most known for. The detox substances are concentrated and after adding it to a bottle of water, simply sip the beverage over a period of four hours. Combined with the cookies, you expect to achieve optimum results, which could be up to ten pounds during a 48-hour period.

Although most consider the product to be quite pricey, The Hollywood Diet has proven to live up to expectations. Would you be willing to try it? Learn more at www.HollywoodDiet.com.

September 14, 2010

Low Carb Marketing

Low carb diets seem to be the fast track to losing weight and with the popularity of Atkins and South Beach, it's no wonder the diet industry is loving the craze. As recently as last week one of my friends tweeted the praises of a low carb diet contributing to her weight loss. And while for the short term low carb may provide quicker results, thinner doesn't always mean healthier when you follow this diet track. Due to the way low carb foods and diet products are marketed, many times consumers are misguided to believe that what you "read" on the front of the package is what you get...and that's not always true.

Think about it, how many times are we rushed in the market only glancing at the front of the package to deliver us the information we need to make a quick, and what we believe to be, informed decision? How often have you taken the time to not only read the front of the label, but the nutrition facts panel on the back as well? If you are anything like me, not as often as you should. And due to a recent study by the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, we're not alone.

Just because it says low carb doesn't mean nutrition and caloric-wise that it is beneficial. So take the time to look beyond the front label, or low carb marketing hype, directly to the nutrition facts when shopping for products to manage your weight.

To read more about the study, visit www.jneb.org.

September 20, 2010

Diet PR: SlimFast

One of the most traditional weight loss and dieting tools used has been none other than meal replacements such as food and weight loss shakes from Slim Fast. Started in 1977, Slim Fast is now sold across the world, including countries in Latin America and Europe. The Slim Fast plan initially began with one option, the shake, but it has eventually expanded to fit the goals and lifestyle of anyone looking to lose weight.

Remaining loyal to its humble beginnings, Slim Fast has not ventured far beyond their classic shakes. Today, you can buy the shakes in several different flavors, some of which are Strawberries N' Cream, French Vanilla and Cappuccino Delight. Not only can you buy them already made, but you can whip up a fresh shake at any time with the shake mixes. In an effort to satisfy their customers with more healthy alternatives, Slim Fast has also extended snack bars and meal bars to their line.

Continue reading "Diet PR: SlimFast" »

September 27, 2010

Energy Drink PR: FRS

It seems as if all of us have too much that needs to be done. As a result, pick-me-ups, such as coffee or caffeinated sodas have become a staple to get us through our never-ending days or long nights. Over the past decade, energy drinks have quickly become the go-to drink for anyone in need of fighting off drowsiness. FRS is a fairly new energy drink that provides the boost you need to go the extra mile; figuratively AND literally.

Continue reading "Energy Drink PR: FRS" »

September 28, 2010

Wellness & Lifestyle PR: Zico Water

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

Continue reading "Wellness & Lifestyle PR: Zico Water" »

September 29, 2010

Men's Health PR: Bosley Joins New and Improved Hair Loss Specialists

One of the most reputable hair loss resources on the web has joined forces with North America's most experienced network of hair restoration professionals. Bosley, a company at the forefront of hair transplantation for nearly 40 years, has recently announced a new partnership with http://www.HairLossSpecialists.com, a consumer advocacy site devoted to providing hair loss sufferers with the latest, proven treatment solutions.

Earlier this year, two of the country's leading hair transplant networks, Bosley and Medical Hair Restoration, joined forces under the Bosley flag, ushering in a new era in the hair loss industry, and greater options for thousands of hair loss patients (both men and women) across the country. Now, Bosley is reaching out to both new customers and former MHR clients, offering their unparalleled expertise (more than 11,000 procedures performed each year), friendly service, and a wide array of today's leading hair loss treatments. Whether a patient is considering at-home hair regrowth with Rogaine or Propecia, a new procedure like Laser Hair Therapy, or the permanent results of advanced Hair Transplant Surgery, Bosley's 70+ clinic locations make it easy to meet with a local specialist and decide which option might work best with one's unique goals and budget.

Continue reading "Men's Health PR: Bosley Joins New and Improved Hair Loss Specialists" »

Men's Health PR: Bosley Joins New and Improved Hair Loss Specialists

One of the most reputable hair loss resources on the web has joined forces with North America's most experienced network of hair restoration professionals. Bosley, a company at the forefront of hair transplantation for nearly 40 years, has recently announced a new partnership with http://www.HairLossSpecialists.com, a consumer advocacy site devoted to providing hair loss sufferers with the latest, proven treatment solutions.

Earlier this year, two of the country's leading hair transplant networks, Bosley and Medical Hair Restoration, joined forces under the Bosley flag, ushering in a new era in the hair loss industry, and greater options for thousands of hair loss patients (both men and women) across the country. Now, Bosley is reaching out to both new customers and former MHR clients, offering their unparalleled expertise (more than 11,000 procedures performed each year), friendly service, and a wide array of today's leading hair loss treatments. Whether a patient is considering at-home hair regrowth with Rogaine or Propecia, a new procedure like Laser Hair Therapy, or the permanent results of advanced Hair Transplant Surgery, Bosley's 70+ clinic locations make it easy to meet with a local specialist and decide which option might work best with one's unique goals and budget.

Continue reading "Men's Health PR: Bosley Joins New and Improved Hair Loss Specialists" »

October 5, 2010

Fitness PR: Sensa Weight-Loss System

Many know that losing weight is no easy feat. It takes hard work and dedication to get your body how you want it. Some resort to diet pills and stimulants which often cause harmful side effects. But losing weight has been made easy. Would you believe that it can be as simple as sprinkling a seasoning on your food before you eat? This is exactly what SENSA Weight-loss System offers.

Counting calories, diet restrictions, dietary pills and side effects are a thing of the past when it comes to weight loss. Produced by certified neurologist Dr. Alan Hirsch, SENSA is based on 25 years of research and testing. Clinical trials show that people lose an average of 30.5lbs in six months and this product makes it as easy as sprinkling salt on your food.

Continue reading "Fitness PR: Sensa Weight-Loss System" »

October 18, 2010

Nutrition PR: PR Bars

With dozens of nutrition bars on the market, choosing the best brand can be a daunting task. For active people looking for that extra boost, PR Bars are a great supplement to your daily routine.

PR Bars, or Personal Record bars, uses Fast Burn Nutrition Technology to bars keep insulin levels steady so that the body will use fat stores as an energy source. It might sound complicated, but it’s pretty simple. Essentially, the bars push the body to burn fat faster and build more muscle. The extra lean muscle mass torches even more calories and increases metabolism. All of that equals a healthier, happier you!

Continue reading "Nutrition PR: PR Bars" »

October 26, 2010

Wellness PR: ResVitale Resveratrol

The fountain of youth just might exist. Resveratrol, a polyphenol extracted from red wine grapes is known for having serious anti-aging and antioxidant properties. It’s been proven in clinical studies to enhance cellular productivity and slows down the degenerative effects of aging, and studies have shown that Resveratrol unlocks sirtuin 1, the “longevity gene”. What does all this mean for you? Youthfulness, more energy, and better health!

ResVitale understands that our bodies aren’t meant to process unnatural chemicals and toxins. For this reason, they’ve created Resveratrol manufactured by completely organic standards. They believe pure sources yield pure results, and it’s true: studies show that antioxidants are about 40% more powerful in organic products. ResVitale has set themselves apart from all other retailers by ensuring three key elements that ensure the highest quality of antioxidants: Vineology, Traceability, and Organics.

Continue reading "Wellness PR: ResVitale Resveratrol" »

October 29, 2010

Beverage PR with Code Blue Recovery Drink

There's a brand new recovery drink in the fitness and beverage market that is designed to revive your body unlike other drinks in the same category. Code Blue, taken from the hospital term which means "resuscitate immediately," is an all natural drink targeted for consumption before, during and after stressful activities (i.e. exercise, a night out and frequent traveling.) Code Blue is only 40 calories, 9 grams of sugar and 10 grams of carbs and is free of preservatives and artificial colors. It not only has more electrolytes than most sports drinks, but provides you with the right amount of vitamins and minerals to help you recover quickly, as well as keep you hydrated and balanced.

Here's what's in it:

Continue reading "Beverage PR with Code Blue Recovery Drink" »

November 3, 2010

Nutrition PR: Casein Protein

Got Casein? Because Casein comprises 80% of the protein in cow’s milk, it’s no surprise that scientists realized the benefits of extracting the protein for other commercial products. Micellar casein is the natural form found in milk which is ultra-filtered without chemicals, so it’s guaranteed to be good for your body. Optimum Nutrition’s 100% Casein Protein Powder is one of the leading supplement choices on the market.

Micellar casein prevents the breakdown of muscle. As a slow digesting protein, it forms a gel-like lining in the stomach, which not only allows for a slower release of amino acids, but helps the body to reach peak protein synthesis. In layman's terms, high levels of amino acids promote muscle growth, prevent muscle breakdown, and in turn cells build even more protein.

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November 6, 2010

Fitness Publicity: Is Mike Sorrentino Showing 'Pudgy' on the Cover of Men's Fitness

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That is the question that is all abuzz and flying around on FaceBook this week as the December/January cover of Men’s Fitness is posted around the walls of all of our friends. We at Pierce Mattie (especially those in the fitness PR division) took one look at the image and responded; “NO!”

His face may look a little bewildered but his body- well it’s still a great situation. Mike’s 8 tip for staying fit are logical and what most men we know are already doing. We'd like to know what else he does to stay so fit... any ideas?

You can read more here.

November 8, 2010

Fitness Video PR: Malibu Pilates

Working out should never feel like a chore. With this is mind, celebrity pilates trainer Carrol Krief designed a routine that will give you full body results- fast! The Malibu Pilates Chair and instructional DVDs will help you get a beautifully lean body by lifting, firming, sculpting and burning!

The Malibu Pilates Chair has adjustable spring resistance and permits the flow of easy cardio moves. With split step pedals you can work your arms and legs simultaneously or individually. Altering these strategies will keep your heart rate up. Push down on the pedals for muscle toning resistance, and pull up on them to support your weight for core tightening positions.

The three-set collection of DVD workouts serves as a helpful guide to getting your body the way you want it. The first video, “Basics breakdown” is a ten minute kick start to your routine. Second is the “20-Minute Malibu Pilates Makeover,” that works out your entire body and triples your abs. This video will teach you the many moves that can be done on your Malibu Pilates Chair.

On days that you can devote more time to a full workout, then the third DVD will become your best friend, the “Total Dream Body Sculpting Workout.” This is a 45-minute fat blasting workout that combines full body sculpting with challenging cardio moves. The circuit-style of the routine will have you quickly moving from exercise to exercise with high intensity aerobics and resistance to lose fat, build muscle and increase cardio health.

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November 9, 2010

Diet PR: Cellucor D4 Thermal Shock

Meet Cellucor, the “Most remarkable sports nutrition in the world”. Cellucor was voted the Best New Brand by Bodybuilding.com. The brand is extremely customer-driven, relying primarily on word of mouth to lead their product campaigns. This marketing agenda combined with the science that drives product research has resulted in highly effective formulas.

Cellucor has vowed their attentiveness to quality over quantity, and as a result the brand has grown through the praise of their supplements. Simply put, people talk about Cellucor products because they work. With such a solid foundation, it’s no wonder why Cellucor’s Thermal Shock is one of the leading weight-loss supplements on the market.

D4 Thermal Shock is a weight-loss breakthrough and the supplemental sequel to D4 Extreme.

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November 11, 2010

Fitness PR: FIT3 - Grand opening of the largest fitness, health and wellness superstore in the US

Friday, November 12th celebrates the long awaited grand opening of FIT3 - the first, the largest and the most innovative retail concept in a fitness lifestyle store to come to North America. Doors will open at 9am sharp in Tyson's Corner, Washington, DC.  FIT3 is the premier destination for fitness equipment, fashion, footwear and health related products with new stores already in the works for additional DC locations.

FIT3 is the brainchild of veteran retail guru Jack Steckel. Jack's expertise spans an illustrious career as partner in the investment banking firm, Capital Canada Limited, co-founding partner of Golf Town with Stephen Bebis, as well as a member of the founding team of Hockey Life, based in Canada. "FIT3 is more than a store," says Steckel. "It's a destination to explore, experiment and engage in a total fitness lifestyle. It's interactive and exciting and unlike any other retail experience out there".

Former Bass Pro President, Hal Smith, has partnered with Steckel, and is FIT3's CEO. "We are thrilled to provide the most exciting health and fitness offering anywhere in the country," says Smith. "Our knowledgeable and passionate experts, coupled with the leading brands in every category, allow for customers to reach any goal they may have for personal fitness, health, and wellness."

FIT3 offers all the leading brands with an unparalleled selection including: LifeFitness, Nike, Brooks, Asics, TwinLab, Zobha, Prana, Gaiam and dozens more.

At over 20,000 sq. ft. including fitness equipment, running, sports nutrition, cardio boxing, yoga and wellness products, as well as an in-store yoga studio and martial arts/boxing ring - FIT3 is the ultimate shopping destination experience.

For more information on FIT3 visit www.myfit3.com.

November 15, 2010

The New Diet PR Buzz of The Twinkie Diet – oh yes!

When I heard about the Orange County dietitian who lost almost 30 pounds on a so called "Twinkie diet," I couldn't help but think about the movie Zombieland and Woody Harrelson's character who was completely obsessed with the spongy, yellow, delicious cream filled cakes. And while the junk food junkies may be rejoicing at the idea that you can lose weight by stock piling Twinkies, and I'm sure Hostess is enjoying the public relations blitz, we all know that such a diet is too good to be true.

While Mark Haub consumed Twinkies for two months to lose the weight, he also demonstrated two key components to losing weight regardless of the method: portion control and consuming small meals several times per day. Haub also stayed under 1800 calories and while it's not noted how many calories he was consuming prior to the Twinkie Diet, I'm sure his caloric intake was much higher, therefore a cut in calories would contribute to his weight loss as well.

Losing weight AND maintaining it, is about lifestyle. Healthy eating habits and good exercise are the only way to go.

Will the Twinkie Diet catch on? If it does, I'm sure dentists around the country will certainly see an uptick in business. 

November 19, 2010

Diet PR: OxyElitePro

Texas-based USP Labs has been a purveyor of sports supplements since the mid-1990s. Their products have been hailed by bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts for years, and the company prides themselves on consistently cranking out cutting-edge, revolutionary fitness supplements. Their latest breakthrough product, OxyElite Pro, is a super-charged supplement that promises to do what all other thermogenics have failed to do.

Thermogenics are meant to burn fat, but most products are made from ingredients like green tea and synephrine that yield weak results. USPlabs recognizes that green tea is an excellent source of antioxidants, but the brand knows that it won’t produce the results most health nuts are looking for. That’s why they’ve developed OxyElite Pro, a Super Thermogenic™ made from specially-formulated compounds that are designed to show results – fast.

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November 23, 2010

Fitness Gadget PR: Urban Rebounder

Voted the # 1 cardio workout in the country, Urban Rebounder will get you bouncing to a healthier, thinner you!

The Urban Rebounder consists of a trampoline like mat that allows for a continuous abdominal workout. Every bounce contracts your core. This exercising equipment and routine is perfect for any age. The mat absorbs the shock of every jump, so it is very easy on the joints, especially your ankles and knees. The small jumps are enough to increase coordination and balance, reduce back issues and reduce one’s risk of falling. You can also purchase the Kids Compilation with a smaller mat and a kid friendly work out video.

It's no wonder Urban Rebounder is so heavily regarded in the fitness industry. By only jumping a mere one inch off the mat, this cardio routine strengthens and nourishes the heart, helps fight fatigue, improves circulation, reduces blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, strengthens muscles… and the list goes on and on! Dr. Morton, famous health writer, has outlined 30 anti-aging benefits the Urban Rebounder has! With the countless health benefits its offers, there’s no reason not to give it a try.

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November 25, 2010

Fitness & Weight Loss PR: Shane Diet Resorts

Horseback riding, a championship golf course, luxury spa treatments, tennis...it all sounds like the ultimate getaway. But don’t be fooled, Shane Resorts are much more than your average vacation spot. Nestled in the Catskills of upstate NY, this diet resort is set on over 200 acres of land – land that as a guest, you’ll become quite familiar with. This weight loss program challenges you to go outside and get moving!

The fitness team at Shane wants you to feel great about yourself, and they’ll help you to lose weight safely and keep it off! Their team of professionals knows that eating healthy isn’t easy – it requires a complete lifestyle change. That’s why the experts at Shane have designed a weight loss menu that not only tastes great, but will teach you portion control, too. You’ll get nutrition education and cooking lessons, so you will leave the resort fully equipped to start a new, healthy lifestyle on your own.

During the day, you’ll be able to get outdoors and the blood flowing. Choose from a huge selection of your favorite (or soon-to-be-favorite) fitness activities. You’ll attend classes and seminars during the day, and at night there’s a chance to go to the movies, dance, or simply hang out and bond with the friends you’ve made.

You’ll be comfortable in the accommodations, too: Shane Diet Resorts is run out of the Honor’s Haven Resort & Spa, a luxurious hotel with private baths, phones, Wi-Fi, and quick access to the lounge and aerobics center.

Shane Resorts offer multiple programs throughout the summer to fit your schedule. For young adults ages 18-25, you may choose up to 9 weeks worth of training, and ages 26 & up are invited to select from up to 8 weeks of training separate from the younger crowd. With a wide choice of time frames, competitive pricing, and financial aid available, there really is no better time to get your body in shape.

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November 29, 2010

A Mom's Take On School Vending Machines

Happy Meal toys are being banned in California to stop swaying kids from eating fast food (but what about sugary cereals that do that same?), schools have changed their lunch menu's to include more healthy choices combined with a revised physical fitness program...but now vending machines are up for debate as, for the most part, they carry junk food. Are we on a mad dash to control every aspect of our child's eating habits or is this just another aspect of pulling in the reigns on childhood obesity?

A recent study showed that schools that had vending machines with healthy choices of snacks had children, who overall, had better eating habits consuming more fruits and veggies than children who were exposed to vending machines with only potato chips, cookies and candy bars. Honestly? We needed someone to do the research to confirm this? It's common sense. From an early age, children learn by example. So if the only options they are met with for meals and snacking are healthy choices, then they will retain what they've learned and carry that into adulthood.

Because of this, I absolutely agree that if our schools are revising lunch and gym, doesn't it make sense to either A. Replace sugary sweets in the vending machines with more nutrition friendly snacks or B. Remove the vending machine all together if it is not cost effective for the district due to the rate of turnover to replace produce weekly.

If you are a parent, what do you think about vending machines in schools?

*Photo Source: Good Housekeeping

November 30, 2010

Fitness with Stephanie Huckabee

If you’ve ever watched popular cardio tapes The Firm or Power Fit, you’ve seen Stephanie Huckabee. The hard-bodied, hardworking mother has a passion for health that’s evident in both her work and lifestyle choices.

Stephanie’s resume is impressive. She’s worked as a video lead in well over twenty fitness tapes and has received multiple personal training certificates. Not only is the workout maven an incredible fitness inspiration, she’s a fabulous role model. On her website, she writes that her goal is to help women see that they are called to be examples of fitness – not for themselves, but for their families. In an age when obesity is on the rise and families are spending significantly small amounts of time together, Stephanie is making an attempt to bring together two causes in an enlightened fashion.

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December 6, 2010

Wellness Publicity: Is The Body Wrap Having A Comeback

Body wraps were all the rage a while back promising inches lost without any special dieting, all within the course of an hour. They slowly slipped off the radar, but never completely vanished. In fact there were wraps sold for home use such as that from Slimmer Silhouette. We're in the season that everyone wants to look their best for the holidays and subsequently kick off the new year with a new body, and for those who cannot afford the pricey membership to the gym, this may be the short-term solution that is bringing it back the body wrap.

Most health professionals agree that body wraps typically show a loss of inches as an effect of water loss. You wear the wrap from just about head to toe and sweat like there is no tomorrow flushing out toxins and losing inches in the process. Although, I'm pretty sure an intensive workout can do the same without being wrapped like a mummy. The only difference being that while working out you are also toning and shaping the body. 

The aforementioned Slimmer Silhouette says its targeted for inch loss, not through water loss or losing weight, although it uses the same method as other wraps--heat and minerals. 

So why the comeback? Are our wallets opening up again and we have the ability to splurge on a quick fix? Or are more people simply interested in the detoxifying effects?

December 10, 2010

Spa & Resort PR: SkyTop Lodge

Looking to get away? This captivating vacation resort offers everything you could ask for in leisure, relaxation and fun- all nestled in the charming scenery of the Pocono Mountains. Skytop Lodge Resort and Spa is known as a Member of the National Trust Historic Hotels of America. Since 1928, Skytop is a delightful travel destination with its historic accommodations and natural stonework design. The mountains give the resort a majestic character. “Up here you get the feeling that you’re on top of the world!”

Skytop is full of history and “natural wonder” that continues to bring guests back every year. The idea for an impressive, grand resort came in 1925 from four men, John Stubbs, Frederic Smith, Earl Mayne and Sam Packer during the post World War I prosperity. The 2,500 acre resort was built overlooking Skytop Lake and with the breathtaking mountains as the perfect backdrop. In June of 1928, the Lodge and Golf Course opened and in 1930 a dam was formed and the lake enlarged. To this day, cottages were built and the 2,000 acre Goose Pond area was added. Trails were laid out with accompanying maps for guests to enjoy nature’s peaceful beauty and charm. Some of wildlife you will encounter include wildflowers, birds, reptiles and signs of black bears, otters, porcupines, beavers, coyotes, bobcats, and minks.

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December 14, 2010

Fitness Book Review: This Is Why You're Fat By Jackie Warner

You’ve seen her fitness DVDs. You’ve seen her TV show, Thintervention. But have you read her latest book? Fitness guru Jackie Warner’s latest book, This is Why You’re Fat is an honest, no-nonsense approach to weight loss. The title may seem a bit coarse, but it’s in an attempt to get people more motivated about fitness.

The book was designed for the everyday person – somebody who doesn’t necessarily have access to expensive personal trainers, exclusive weight-loss herbs, or hard-to-find exercise tools. The book’s strong background in research that revolves around proven results targets people who want to decrease their weight, increase their energy and ultimately achieve overall happiness and body satisfaction.

According to Jackie, “Being fat isn’t your fault; staying fat is.” In her latest book, she shares her formula for how to stay thin forever. It’s a comprehensive look at fitness and nutrition, and each chapter covers a different aspect of the program. It begins with This is Why You’re Fat, followed by chapters discussing how to eat and exercise to stay hot and healthy. It wraps up with a chapter on how to stay hot and healthy, so all your hard work doesn’t go to waste.

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December 21, 2010

Diet PR: Holiday Weight Tips

Are you one of the many people who launches into a diet and exercise plan just before (and during) the holidays in order to shed a few pounds for those parties and family gatherings? Besides the always popular January 1st resolution of getting back in shape and swimsuit season, this is the time of year when diet plans and gyms are beginning to see a surge of activity. But as with most lifestyle changes, if you don't plan in advance for the bumps in the road (i.e. delicious food staring you down at the office party; holiday shopping for hours after work) then just like with any other diet, you may feel like a failure when you skip a workout or cheat a day or two.

Here are some holiday fitness tips to help you stay on track:

1. Have a game plan when it comes to fitness; look at your schedule a week in advance and schedule the days you will work out. Morning workouts are best and actual promote better weight loss.

2. Decide in advance which gatherings you give yourself permission to feast at and by how much.

3. Partner up to keep yourself accountable. 

4. Be flexible in what you consider exercise; ice skating and skiing with friends and family sound much better than running on the treadmill (and fun makes it not seem like "work" at all.)

5. Allow for a clean slate. So you overindulged on that chocolate torte? Don't let the guilt and disappointment make you simply give up. Start with a clean slate the next day and pat yourself on the back for not being a quitter.

Have any other tips? Be sure to share them with us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR.

December 22, 2010

Celebrity Nutritional Supplement Publicity w/ RestoreLife & Suzanne Somers

Actress Suzanne Somers has had a long history of product promotion. She’s released numerous diet and self-help books, and has been the face of numerous weight loss and fitness products throughout the years. Her latest endorsement is for RestoreLife formulas, a purveyor of vitamins and supplements.

Somers was a good choice for the face of RestoreLife products. She’s known for being outspoken on a number of medical and health issues, and although some of her opinions have been criticized from time to time, she has solid opinions and supports things she believes in. Somers backs RestoreLife products and vouches for their purity and effectiveness.

RestoreLife’s nutritional supplements are made from the finest quality of natural ingredients and vitamins. The products have received 5-star reviews and customers continue to voice their satisfaction with the quality of the supplements. The best sampling of RestoreLife products is the 3-Pack Supplement Starter Kit. It includes Omega-3 Renew, Vitamin D3 Renew, and Resveratrol Renew, all products which promise to improve overall health and well-being for middle-aged and older women.

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January 3, 2011

Fitness PR: REI

Have a love for the great outdoors? REI shares this passion and they know the exact gear and clothing you need to get the best experience out of your activities!

REI’s commitment is “to inspire, educate and outfit for a lifetime of outdoor adventure.” The company started in 1938 by 23 mountain climbing friends and it is now the country’s largest consumer organization with over three million active members. Whether it is camping, hiking, cycling, snow sports, or any other outdoor activity, REI is a leading retailer for it and offers a wide variety of necessary equipment- all under REI’s own brand name. If you can think of it, then they likely have it. Some of their top product categories include backpacks, jackets, tents, sunglasses, watches and electronics.

REI offers a huge collection of high quality clothing and shoes for men, women and children. You can find everything, including pants, shirts, jackets, under wear, swimwear, vests, accessories… and the list never ends. REI is the perfect destination to find the appropriate clothing for your adventures.

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January 4, 2011

Fitness Public Relations: Shake Weight

“As Seen On TV” commercials are an American tradition. They’re corny, mindless, and a bit gratuitous, but a tradition nonetheless. The Shake Weight is one of the newest, most contagious advertisements that has people everywhere talking.

The Shake Weight is a “revolutionary” new fitness product that uses dynamic inertia to sculpt lean, sexy muscle – the weights at either end oscillate back and forth while you hold the Shake Weight. This back-and-forth motion works out the entire arm and promises to tone up the flab in just six minutes a day.

Intentional or not, Shake Weight commercials have created media frenzy. The comical advertisements show women demonstrating how to use the product, but the visual is suggestive of more than just an arm workout. The ads went viral soon after the Shake Weight hit the market, and hundreds of parodies followed thereafter.

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January 10, 2011

The Mommy Diet w/ Alison Sweeney

If you grew up watching Alison Sweeney on Days of Our Lives like I did, I'm sure you will agree that you feel a sort of kinship with her. And I can relate to her now, more than ever, in this season of my life. Just like her, I am a mom (although take her kids times 2 for me) and juggling a fast paced career. And just like her, and most other women who have had children, I struggled (and still do) with my weight post-pregnancy. Much like the website/blog in her namesake is friendly and most of all, real, so is her new book The Mommy Diet.

As host of The Biggest Loser, I'm sure Ali learned a thing or two about diet and exercise. I'm equally as sure that she listened to feedback from the public on what they like about Biggest Loser and what they don't. And as most of us know, we are more likely to be encouraged and motivated by diet tips that we can easily assimilate into our own individual lifestyles than by military style regimens. 

Sure to be a hit, The Mommy Diet, will guide you step by step through pregnancy and thereafter so that you can be healthy and not have to worry about carrying around that "baby weight"...even when your youngest is now in preschool. (Not speaking from experience or anything!)

Check out The Mommy Diet on Amazon.com and see all of Alison Sweeney's health, fitness and lifestyle tips on her website www.AlisonSweeney.com.

January 18, 2011

Fitness PR: Moving Comfort Fitness Apparel

When you wear a great outfit, it’s natural to feel more confident and put your best foot forward. Why not apply that mentality to your gym wardrobe, too? Anybody can go to the gym in baggy sweatpants and an old T-shirt, but it might not be the most beneficial for exercise. Don some stylish, comfortable fitness apparel and it’s likely you’ll be a little bit more motivated to hit the gym – you’ll want to show your new duds off!

Fitness apparel brand Moving Comfort has created a line of gym clothes that are not only stylish, but promise a fabulous fit. Because the company is run by women, the collections have been designed to be comfortable, flattering, and feminine. The brand has expert knowledge in bra fitting and wants to make sure all women feel confident in their sports bras. The experts go beyond basic cup and band size, each bra is designed for ultimate comfort and fit. From the DriLayer fabric technology to strategically placed seams and clasps, MC women wear the highest quality of sports bras.

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January 24, 2011

Fitness PR: Lululemon Yoga Apparel

Yoga is meant to be more than just a physical workout – it’s an exercise that unites mind, body, and spirit. If you stop to think about it, it seems only natural for a yoga clothing and gear store to take the same holistic approach to selling a product. After learning about Lululemon Athletica and the way they treat their employees, customers, and local community, I’m at a loss as to why I’ve ever bought yoga gear from any other store.

In 1998, Surfer, skater, and yogi Chip Wilson set out to make yoga clothing that was more than just cotton. He wanted to make athletic fabric, and began a yoga shop that doubled as a studio during the night hours to pay the rent. While the arrangement initially only served a practical purpose, it became clear that this concept of a store/studio hybrid was something to be considered.

Now, almost 13 years later, Lululemon has evolved from an ordinary clothing store into a sanctum sanctorum for yoga lovers everywhere. It’s the company outlook that sets Lululemon apart from other yoga clothing retailers. The workplace environment brings the practice of yoga full-circle, and the store workers fully embody the Lululemon manifesto –which, by the way, isn’t a one-liner slogan, but a combination of over 20 inspirational quotes.

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February 1, 2011

Fitness PR: Club H Fitness

While luxury fitness clubs always come equipped with the latest equipment and first-class amenities, they also tend to come with an air of supremacy. Where does a fitness aficionado go when they want all the best equipment and personalized attention? All feelings of superiority and intimidation seem to fade away at Club H, where the “H” stands for humble luxury. You’ll soon realize that Club H is the only luxury fitness club and spa with a truly welcoming, neighborhood feel.

Since the opening of the very first Club H Fitness & Spa H location in 2003, the company’s goal was to create an extraordinary health environment. Not only do people want to work out at Club H, people want to work with Club H. The fitness team is comprised of leaders who are specially trained to foster creativity and help club members grow and meet their fitness goals. Their welcoming attitudes have made members feel comfortable and at home for the past seven years.

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February 4, 2011

Wellness & Nutrition Communications: Sodium Awareness

Recent government sodium intake guidelines only re-confirms what those in the health industry have been proposing for a while. Cut back on the salt or your health is at risk.

Those with hypertension, chronic kidney disease or who have diabetes, as well as African Americans, are suggested to cut back their sodium intake to just a half a teaspoon per day. Anyone 51 or older are also recommended to follow the guideline. While those who are considered in good health are suggested to only have a teaspoon per day of sodium. 

For food companies already marketing low-sodium foods, this new government guideline may help to provide a boost in sales. Not to mention publicity that will put another positive spin on their products. 

AlsoSalt, a salt substitute, has a great list of low sodium foods on their website, as well as an explanation of low sodium food labels. You can also find the Pocket Guide to Low Sodium Foods here as well. 

Will you be cutting back on your salt intake? Tweet us your response @PierceMattiePR.

February 7, 2011

Fitness PR: Gym-Pact

Goal setting is easy; it’s the follow through that proves the biggest challenge. Unless you have a workout buddy, it’s hard to find a reason to drag yourself to the gym and commit to a solid 30 (or more) minutes of cardio. There’s no penalty for missing a day at the gym, no significant or immediate repercussions. Gym-Pact in Boston has created a program that has created consequences for missing gym days, and provides positive incentives and rewards for good attendance.

Gym-Pact is not a gym in itself, rather, it’s a social enterprise program that works with local vendors to offer member discounts to local gyms, dance centers, and yoga studios. Members set a gym goal – a certain number of days a week that they can commit to working out. When members successfully fulfill their weekly goal, they receive great discounts on fitness memberships. In a way, it’s a reward for proving their commitment to their health. The catch? If members fall short of their commitment, they are charged a “motivational fee” for each day missed that week.

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February 21, 2011

Fitness PR: Synergy Fitness Clubs

Fitness is a lifestyle. At least that’s the philosophy of Synergy Fitness, a chain of health clubs hailed by Club Industry magazine as one of the top health club organizations in North America. It takes a healthy mind and body to achieve the ultimate results, and Synergy Fitness is committed to bringing change to those who want to work for it.

While Synergy’s basic structure was formed about 15 years ago, all coaches are required to attend continuing education classes on a regular basis, to keep up with the latest fitness trends and techniques. Whether you’re looking for a cardio kick, a relaxing yoga session, or a powerful self-defense class, you’ll find your niche in one of Synergy’s first-rate classes and programs.

No matter what your goals are, Synergy has a lifestyle coach who is specially trained to meet your needs. Coaches view fitness as a science and are fully prepared to help members with body conditioning, muscle tone, and weight loss using Synergy’s 10 steps to fitness.

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February 28, 2011

Matthew McConaughey Fitness

I have long had a (pretend) love affair with Matthew McConaughey. Well, who hasn't really? Almost all of his movies are hits (I can't wait to see The Lincoln Lawyer, can you?) and as he ages, he seemingly gets better looking. Being on set and squeezing in family time means coming up with unique ways to fit in fitness into your daily routine. McConaughey likes to golf, do yoga, go surfing, running, cycling...he's not your typical gym guy. So it makes sense that in April's issue of Men's Fitness, McConaughey explains that he lifts rocks to stay fit. Yes, rocks...as in the kind found in your backyard.

As McConaughey explains it, you can lift the rocks over your head, rest them on your shoulders, shift weight--all which tone your muscles. You learn your body's weakenesses, as well as its strengths.

So many times when we think of fitness, we automatically envision tredging to the gym. But as McConaunhey shows us, fitness doesn't have to be anything extravagant (didn't Richard Simmons show us we could use soap cans as weights?) and certainly doesn't have to cost us a dime. Mother Nature provides us with all we need anyway, so is it really a stretch that it now includes rocks in our workout as well?

March 3, 2011

The Nutrition & Wellness Marketing of Oatmeal

I can remember back when I was around 7, my mother used to always fix me a bowl of oatmeal before school. I found the taste rather odd and I used to always say,”Mom why am I eating this?”

She would respond back saying,”Because it's good for you.”

How many times have we heard that? Well after I grew up, I found out that she wasn't kidding. Oatmeal is actually really good for you. There are many variations of oats: rolled oats, steel oats and crushed oats to name a few. The most common variation of oat that Americans intake is known as rolled oat and is usually associated with breakfast.

What makes oatmeal so great is that it is rich in dietary fibers which is imperative for our diets. Not many people get there recommended fiber intake and thus products like Activia, Fiber One and even McDonald's new oatmeal have emerged. Having high fiber is crucial because it can help lower your cholesterol. While we at Pierce Mattie have recently noticed a few aspiring nutrition bloggers bashing oatmeal, we ask – can you suggest something better for breakfast? We don’t think so.

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March 4, 2011

Fitness PR: Bella Mia Sportswear

 

We’ve said it before: even though it may be easier to throw on old sweats and head to the gym, you’ll feel better and work out harder if you love what you’re wearing. Bella Mia Sportswear has kicked this concept up a notch – they don’t want you to just look good, they want you to look sexy.

For over 10 years, Bella Mia founder Valerie Enrique has worked with gyms and fitness trainers, scouring the globe for new, functional fashion trends. Today, Bella Mia is one of the most successful and rapidly growing companies in the workout wear industry.

All products are made from REAL Dupont SUPPLEX ®, a specially-weaved sweat wicking fabric. Not only is the sportswear breathable, it’s comfortable, too. Bella Mia clothing conforms to and shapes the body for a smooth, streamlined look that’s easy to move in.

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March 7, 2011

Fitness PR: City Lights

The modern woman doesn’t always have time to run home for a post-workout wardrobe change before finishing her never-ending to-do list. Inspired by this concept, lifestyle brand City Lights has created comfortable, easy to wear clothing that is fashionable enough to transition from the gym to the store.

City Lights has redefined style, steering away from too-tight (and often tacky) gym clothing and instead creating breathable, beautiful garments made out of the finest fabrics. The brand works exclusively with their own signature fleece, terry, supima cotton, and thermal fabrics for the absolute best quality workout wear. Amazingly enough, the relaxed luxury comes at an affordable price so every woman can treat herself to quality fashion.

The San Francisco-based brand has been creating ultra-comfortable bodywear for over 25 years, and their dedication to both customers and the environment has only strengthened as time has passed. Most recently, City Lights released an eco-friendly bamboo-cotton fabric blend for the new Bamboo Collection, and has begun using recycled polyester in the Sport Collection.

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March 8, 2011

Fitness Public Relations: Sugar Marketing with Stevia

Got a sweet tooth? If you're a normal person, you more than likely do. Cookies, pastries, and muffins are just a few that I enjoy. As great as these desserts are, consuming a large amount of sugar isn't always the healthiest thing to do.

But don't fret, there are a plethora of sugar alternatives circling around including Stevia. Stevia is a natural herb found in Brazil, China, Japan and Paraguay. There has been a bit of a controversy with the FDA over the years, however there have been no facts to prove that it is not beneficial for your system. In fact it has been proved to have none of the drawbacks that sugar possesses.

Stevia can have an impact of up to 15x the sweetness of sugar. So essentially you won't need to use as much Stevia as you would sugar. It's a great sugar alternative and is mostly found in your local health food store and you local supermarket. 

Because of the health state that our country is in, it's imperative that we eat and live at our best as frequently as we can. Stevia has the ability to be used in any of your recipes that call for sugar. I've seen some great recipes for banana bread, apple crisp and carrot cake that all include Stevia. So if you want to try something new, head to your local store or try sites like Truvia.com or SteviaintheRaw.com to make a purchase!

Fitness Public Relations: Sugar Marketing with Stevia

Got a sweet tooth? If you're a normal person, you more than likely do. Cookies, pastries, and muffins are just a few that I enjoy. As great as these desserts are, consuming a large amount of sugar isn't always the healthiest thing to do.

But don't fret, there are a plethora of sugar alternatives circling around including Stevia. Stevia is a natural herb found in Brazil, China, Japan and Paraguay. There has been a bit of a controversy with the FDA over the years, however there have been no facts to prove that it is not beneficial for your system. In fact it has been proved to have none of the drawbacks that sugar possesses.

Stevia can have an impact of up to 15x the sweetness of sugar. So essentially you won't need to use as much Stevia as you would sugar. It's a great sugar alternative and is mostly found in your local health food store and you local supermarket. 

Because of the health state that our country is in, it's imperative that we eat and live at our best as frequently as we can. Stevia has the ability to be used in any of your recipes that call for sugar. I've seen some great recipes for banana bread, apple crisp and carrot cake that all include Stevia. So if you want to try something new, head to your local store or try sites like Truvia.com or SteviaintheRaw.com to make a purchase!

Fitness Public Relations: Sugar Marketing with Stevia

Got a sweet tooth? If you're a normal person, you more than likely do. Cookies, pastries, and muffins are just a few that I enjoy. As great as these desserts are, consuming a large amount of sugar isn't always the healthiest thing to do.

But don't fret, there are a plethora of sugar alternatives circling around including Stevia. Stevia is a natural herb found in Brazil, China, Japan and Paraguay. There has been a bit of a controversy with the FDA over the years, however there have been no facts to prove that it is not beneficial for your system. In fact it has been proved to have none of the drawbacks that sugar possesses.

Stevia can have an impact of up to 15x the sweetness of sugar. So essentially you won't need to use as much Stevia as you would sugar. It's a great sugar alternative and is mostly found in your local health food store and you local supermarket. 

Because of the health state that our country is in, it's imperative that we eat and live at our best as frequently as we can. Stevia has the ability to be used in any of your recipes that call for sugar. I've seen some great recipes for banana bread, apple crisp and carrot cake that all include Stevia. So if you want to try something new, head to your local store or try sites like Truvia.com or SteviaintheRaw.com to make a purchase!

Fitness Public Relations: Sugar Marketing with Stevia

Got a sweet tooth? If you're a normal person, you more than likely do. Cookies, pastries, and muffins are just a few that I enjoy. As great as these desserts are, consuming a large amount of sugar isn't always the healthiest thing to do.

But don't fret, there are a plethora of sugar alternatives circling around including Stevia. Stevia is a natural herb found in Brazil, China, Japan and Paraguay. There has been a bit of a controversy with the FDA over the years, however there have been no facts to prove that it is not beneficial for your system. In fact it has been proved to have none of the drawbacks that sugar possesses.

Stevia can have an impact of up to 15x the sweetness of sugar. So essentially you won't need to use as much Stevia as you would sugar. It's a great sugar alternative and is mostly found in your local health food store and you local supermarket. 

Because of the health state that our country is in, it's imperative that we eat and live at our best as frequently as we can. Stevia has the ability to be used in any of your recipes that call for sugar. I've seen some great recipes for banana bread, apple crisp and carrot cake that all include Stevia. So if you want to try something new, head to your local store or try sites like Truvia.com or SteviaintheRaw.com to make a purchase!

March 14, 2011

Fitness PR: FAGE Greek Yogurt

Within the past two years or so, Greek yogurt has become a foodie trend and the superstar of the dairy aisle. For some, it’s an acquired taste…but it’s definitely worth trying. The slightly cheesy, slightly sweet flavor of Greek yogurt is a guilt-free option, as it’s completely devoid of sugar and packed with protein.

Greek yogurt was once a commodity in the US, but now consumers are met with a wide array of choices at the food store. Fage (pronounced “fa-yeh”) Greek yogurt is the leader in its field, bringing high-quality, authentic Greek yogurt to the States directly from Athens. With over 85 years of rich history both abroad and in our own country, Fage has remained dedicated to high-quality products that promote a healthy lifestyle.

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March 15, 2011

Diet PR: Lose Weight in 8

We're in full workout mode at Pierce Mattie as spring is almost here! Is your body swimsuit ready? Well in case it isn't, ExerciseTV has an amazing video designed to help you shed the weight you managed to gain during the winter season.

Paul Vincent, the owner of Training Adventure, has an awesome workout series called “Lose Weight in 8.” It's an 8 week program consisting of 5 workouts a week: 3 30 minute cardio/strength and 2 15 minute active recovery. I think the great thing about his videos is not only does it feature hardcore workout designed to sculpt your body, it also has two sessions allowing your body to recuperate. How many times have you decided to quit on your workout because it's “too hard?” More often than you would like to admit I'm sure.

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March 21, 2011

QuickTrim Marketing w/ the Kardashians

It’s no secret that Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney Kardashian are superstars. From magazine covers to TV shows, it’s almost impossible to ignore their media presence. Over the past few years, our population has become consumed with the glam Kardashian lifestyle, and QuickTrim saw this national obsession as a fabulous business opportunity.

QuickTrim Diet System promises bikini-body results by aiding in calorie burn and boosting energy levels for supercharged daily workouts. The diet supplement brand has been working with the jet-setting sisters since 2009, and the girls have consistently praised QuickTrim for their hot bods. While the Karadshian trio was certainly never overweight, they’ve slimmed down and toned up, saying they owe it all to the Fast Cleanse program.

Just recently, The Kardashians and QuickTrim partnered with GNC for a Lose To Win contest. After purchasing any Kardashian-sponsored QuickTrim supplement, contestants can submit a letter or video of their own “Inspiring QuickTrim Success Story”. Kim, Kourtney, and Khloe will select 10 lucky winners who will receive trips and cash prizes. The grand prizewinner will receive $50,000 cash, hotel & air fair to meet the celebrity sisters, a $2,000 shopping spree and the chance to appear on national television as a QuickTrim spokesperson.

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March 28, 2011

Fitness PR: Yoplait Greek Yogurt

Greek Yogurt seems to be the healthy snack of choice lately. A few weeks ago, I discussed the popularity of Fage Greek yogurt, and now everyone’s favorite yogurt brand is jumping on the bandwagon. Yoplait recently released a new line of Greek yogurt products that promise to satisfy hunger without any extra calories.

It’s no surprise why Yoplait is joining in on the trend. Greek yogurt is chock-full of protein, the ultimate body fuel and the foundation for building strong muscles. Studies have also found that the protein-packed snack may keep your body satisfied for longer, so you’ll be less apt to make unhealthy snacking choices throughout the day. Especially for those who are watching their weight (bathing suit season is quickly approaching), it’s a great diet snack that doesn’t taste “diet” at all.

Nutritionists recommend fat-free, protein-rich snacking options, and Yoplait’s new Greek yogurt certainly fits the bill. At 160 calories with zero calories from fat (yes, really zero), it’s a tasty little escape from your mundane snack choices. It’s packed with protein, too: each 6-oz cup contains 14 to 17 grams of it, with all the texture and flavor you expect in a Greek yogurt.

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March 29, 2011

Wellness PR: Pocket Posh Dining Out Calorie Counter

Counting calories can be a real pain. Especially when you're dining out and unsure of how many calories is in your penne pasta that you ordered from your favorite restaurant. It's much easier to count them when you are cooking your food, but it can be a different story when you're out dining.

Introducing Pocket Posh Dining Out Calorie Counter: Your Guide to Thousands of Foods from Your Favorite Restaurants. This compact book was written by nutritionist Pamela Nisevich Bede. This woman knows a thing or two about what it means to be eat and exercise a healthy lifestyle. I mean she has ran about 13 marathons to date. With this book, she wants her readers to be able to live the best life that they can and be able to moderate the foods that are going into their system.

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April 4, 2011

Fitness PR: A Woman's Guide to a Healthy Stomach

We’ve all been there – the jeans we threw on yesterday morning somehow don’t seem to fit this afternoon. It can be a serious blow to the ego, but it’s important to remember that it’s probably not the result of rapid weight gain, but rather from bloating or another gastrointestinal issue.

Problems like these arise from time to time, and it’s important for women to have the answers to any stomach issues they may have. The new book A Woman’s Guide to a Healthy Stomach is a trusty little handbook that addresses many common questions about the stomach problems that plague women everywhere. When over 70 million Americans are affected by digestive problems, it’s vital for women (who are especially vulnerable) to get the help and relief they need.

Dr. Jacqueline L. Wolf is a leading expert in gastrointestinal health and has laid out the causes and remedies for the most-loathed ailments, including constipation, acid reflux, and IBS. Dr. Wolf also makes a point to address more serious but very real stomach conditions like Crohn’s disease and endometriosis.

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April 11, 2011

Lifestyle PR: Skinny Bitch Fitness

When the vegan diet book Skinny Bitch hit the shelves in 2005, it caused quite a buzz. The no-nonsense approach to weight loss had an unmistakable bite to it -- but the sarcastic and honest humor kept readers eyes’ glued to the pages. Now, Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin (the brains behind the books and former models) are bringing their tough love approach to another platform: fitness.

Skinny Bitch Fitness has all the sharp wit and brutal honesty of the books, and the DVDS make viewers work for that body. It’s tough, but the workouts have been created for a life-altering, total-body change. As the Skinny Bitches put it, it’s time to transform yourself from a lazy lump into a Skinny Bitch! Harsh? Maybe a little…but these fighting words are enough to motivate any girl to get moving.

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April 12, 2011

Organic Marketing: The Green Smoothie Bible with Kristine Miles

How often do you eat your recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake? If your diet is anything like mine, not very often at all. According to the notorious food pyramid, we should be eating at least 3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruits a day. As great as carrots and apples can be, not all of us are munching on them as frequently as we should be.

Well that can all end now because of Kristine Miles' upcoming book, The Green Smoothie Bible. In her book she has over 300 different recipes of green smoothies that are loaded with vegetables and fruits that exceed the daily recommended amounts. The green smoothie diet has been all the rage the last few years because of it's ability to pack in great amount of leafy veggies and fruits that are imperative to our diets. Why in the form of a smoothie? It's quick, tasty and all around more fulfilling than sitting around eating celery sticks all day.

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April 14, 2011

Fitness Public Relations: For Golfers, Drive 495

 

For golfers, having the perfect stroke is everything. Depending on on great your it is determines your overall mood as you begin playing your game with a few of your friends. If you've got an extra $5,000 a year to spend you can get yourself a membership to the exclusive golfing experience that is Drive 495 and get a little help.

Located in the Soho neighborhood in New York City, Drive 495 offers golfers physical assessments along with on hand training from specialists and former golf coaches. Founders Don Saladino and his brother, Joseph intended for this gym to allow golfers to be at their best physically, and in result, their golf game will flourish.

Their state of the art 3D Aim simulator allows golfers to be able to digitally play at any of the 30 world famous courses around the world. It's essentially intended to improve a golfers swing and a session on this bad boy gets you up close and personal with several high tech features as well as a one on one coach that helps you along the way. And when you're ready to take a break you can head to the juice bar to sit back and relax.

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April 18, 2011

Diet PR: Eat Naked: Unprocessed, Unpolluted, and Undressed Eating for a Healthier, Sexier You

According to Margaret Floyd, we aren’t naked enough…that is, in terms of food. The nutritional therapist is among a growing number of people behind the push to eat “naked” foods for a healthier, happier life.

What is naked food, exactly? The answer is simple: foods that are fresh, organic, and prepared to let the natural flavors be the focus of the meal. It means no more of the overprocessed junk foods that Americans have created a long-term, love-hate relationship with.

Unprocessed foods have endless benefits. When we eat foods in their most natural state, we’re feeding ourselves with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals in their most organic states. A general feeling of well-being, better skin, and less illness has been attributed to eating raw, and organic foods put less stress on our body organs so it’s guaranteed we’ll function better on the whole.

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April 25, 2011

The Juice Lady’s Living Foods Revolution

Eat your way to health, detoxification, and weight loss

 

It seems that there’s a new diet fad every day. We’ve tried the low-carb diet, the low-sugar diet, the cabbage soup diet…heck, even that wacky lemonade juice diet. Faced with so many fads, how is the average person supposed to choose a diet plan that’s not only effective, but healthy too?

The truth is, losing weight doesn’t come down to dieting. It comes down to making a healthy life change in terms of our eating that will fuel both mind and body. Cherie Calbom, better known as the Juice Lady, has found through research that a live food lifestyle is one of the most beneficial diet changes we can make for ourselves. Her new book, Living Foods Revolution explains the benefits of “live” foods backed by scientific research.

“Live” food, or more simply, raw food has been proven to enhance cell communication, resulting in a healthier, energetic, and more vibrant you. Aside from increased happiness, raw foods are also linked to disease prevention and better skin. The Juice Lady isn’t suggesting you switch to an all-raw diet, but by incorporating more raw foods into meals daily, she promises you will see results and feel more energetic almost instantly.

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April 26, 2011

Gluten-Free Food Made Simple with Carol Field Dahlstrom, Elizabeth Dahlstrom Burnley & Marcia Schultz Dahlstrom

I always try to find new ways to cook my dinners with exciting recipes that are also very healthy. As great as some things are for you, not everything tastes as wonderful as it looks. Authors Carol Field Dahlstrom, Elizabeth Dahlstrom Burnley and Marcia Schultz Dahlstrom wanted to make sure that they made their foods aesthetically pleasing and delicious all at the same time.

Introducing Gluten-Free Made Simple: Everyday Meals That Everyone Can Enjoy. Within the pages of this book are over 100 delectable recipes that are gluten-free. And you may ask, “What does that mean?” Well, gluten is a food additive that is comes from wheat, rye and barley. This protein is not always the healthiest and eating without it can decrease your chances of getting Celiac disease. Eating a gluten-free diet is the only known treatment for this disease.

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May 2, 2011

Sweet & Skinny: 100 Recipes for Enjoying Life’s Sweeter Side

Desserts: the sweet temptations that propel dieters into a chocolatey downward spiral. For me, it’s always been the deal breaker with diets: one teensy little taste of dessert turns into a spoonful, then a second spoonful, and in no time flat that tiramisu has gone mysteriously missing. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be this way.

Thanks to Marisa Churchill, there is a way to have your cake, eat it, and still be skinny at the end of the day! Her new cookbook, Sweet & Skinny, is chock-full of dessert recipes that won’t leave you feeling guilty. A longtime food lover and San Fran-area chef, Churchill combines years of experience as a pastry chef with her passion for fitness to create delicious desserts in under 30 minutes.

Churchill takes American baked goods classics and swaps out ingredients to cut some serious calories. The baking technique itself remains the same, resulting in decadent flavors that taste like they should be high-fat. It’s time to give in to your sweet-stuff cravings – thanks to Marisa Churchill, there’s finally a way to avoid the guilt factor.

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May 3, 2011

Yoga PR: Hugger Mugger

Yoga is the best stress reliever around. For someone who does not like to do heavy, high impact workouts, yoga suits me best. Because of this, I have recently discovered Hugger Mugger. The brand was created by Sara Chambers and produces high quality and environmentally friendly products ideal for any yogi.

I love how the name Hugger Mugger literally means to conceal. One of their first products, which happen to have the same name as the brand, are their unisex shorts ($36.95) that are perfect to have on during your yoga or Pilates exercise. They're the very shorts that got this brand its clever name. The thigh hugging bands are great because they allow you to bend over and stretch without having to worry if you're shorts are riding up.

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May 9, 2011

Fitness PR: Pro-Form Exercise Equipment

Being able to exercise in the comfort of your own home is a complete luxury. As fantastic as some of the fitness centers are, nothing beats being able to call the elliptical machine your own. With the summer being just around the corner, getting in shape is on the minds of women across the country. Bikini season anyone?

Introducing Pro-Form exercise equipment. With a plethora of butt firming and ab crunching machines, you'll be guaranteed to be able to get in the best shape of your life.

One of their most famous machines? The Ab Glider ($150). This machine enables the user to glide in numerous positions and at the very same time, strengthen your entire core. With two specific motions, a circular burn and arc crunch, you'll be able to work efficiently and burn up to two times the amount of calories than other ab machines.

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May 20, 2011

Health PR: Lumiscope

Are you in need of a new thermometer? Do you now have a elderly relative staying with you and in need of certain products that can cater to their needs? Well look no further because Graham-Field health products are just what you are looking for. This brand has over 4,000 different medical goods that are designed to cater to your every need.

Their Lumiscope brand in particular has special creations designed to help any fitness guru maintain and figure out their health status. One of their featured products includes the Non-touch thermometer ($89). What sets this thermometer from the rest is that it does not require the direct contact of the person in order for their temperature to be recorded. You don't have to even bother disturbing them! Not only that, it will indicate whether or not you have a fever based on the recorded temperature. Awesome little trick if you ask me.

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May 23, 2011

Fitness PR: Urban Rebounder

The newest craze in the fitness world, Urban Rebounder brings out the kid in you and makes working out fun. Exercise should be something you look forward to in your day and thanks to Urban Rebounder you have an alternative to those dreary gym days.

Inspiration for the alternative exercise stems from the gymnastic world, gymnasts often train on trampolines but only recently did experts begin to learn of the benefits. Even the people of NASA have labeled this exercise as one of the best.

The cardiovascular exercise is easier on your joints than jogging on a treadmill or using an elliptical resulting in a significant decrease in injuries. It can also be almost 70% more effective in burning fat. The aerobic exercise helps strengthen the heart muscle and has been reported to help lower blood pressure. Not too mention it builds muscle strength in your legs, hips, stomach and even arms to help fight flab. The unstable platform also works your balance and posture.

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May 24, 2011

Nature's Code: A New Way to Live Healthy

Now you don’t have to guess and speculate about the vitamins your body needs. Nature’s Code, promoted by Dr. Edward Taub and Dr. James Rouse, is a wellness brand that produces vitamins and supplements to suit different health needs. Dr. James Rouse has had many years of experience in the health field including being a naturopathic doctor, QVC wellness doctor, a certified yoga instructor, wellness magazine founder, author, radio talk show host, and television personality. He believes that if people adopt a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, diet supplements, positive thoughts, and exercise they can achieve optimum wellness.

Nature’s Code has supplements for various needs including bone support, cognitive support, digestive support, energy support, general health, to name a few. Nature’s Code really tried to meet every need and even produces vitamins in pill and liquid form to suit different preferences. This brand also produces healthy and delicious juice drinks and nutrition bars.

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June 6, 2011

Lifestyle & Fitness Guru Joy Mangano

HSN visionary Joy Mangano has helped millions solve everyday household challenges with fun, functional and practical solutions. Her success took off in 1992 with her first hit, the self-wringing ‘Miracle Mop.’ Since its invention, the entrepreneur has continued to crank out household necessities and currently has over 100 patents.

Mangano’s line of fitness equipment includes DVDs, a fitness ‘disk’, and shaping shoes. Her fitness disk helps tone, tighten and sculpt muscles through resistance training. The lightweight, portable disk requires no other equipment and is equipped to work on any floor surface. Always considering the negatives about a product, Mangano ensured the disk would be easy to use, as well as maintain. Clean up is easy, simply throw the neoprene base and fleece pads in the wash or wipe down the plastic disks with a damp cloth.

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June 8, 2011

Wellness PR: Pedic Solutions

Do you ever feel like your mattress isn’t giving you the comfort you body needs for a good night of sleep? Then you should give Pedic Solutions a try! Pedic Solutions mattresses conform to your body and reduce pressure points allowing you to be completely relaxed and have a comfortable night’s sleep.And as studies continue to show, 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night does wonders for your overall health.

Pedic Solutions was created by Dr. Ana Lavdas whose goal was to help patients who cannot sleep and improve their overall wellness. Being a clinical practitioner, Dr. Lavdas believes that sleep is extremely important for a balanced life. Therefore, she created Pedic Solutions to help people lead a healthier lifestyle. She did not just stop with the creation of Pedic Solutions, but keeps making technological changes to the mattresses to ensure customers will get the best sleep that they can have.

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June 10, 2011

Weight Loss PR: The Slim & Beautiful Diet by Dr. Aaron Tabor

The Slim & Beautiful Diet was created by Dr. Aaron Tabor to help his mother lose weight. This diet has been proven to be more effective than simply taking a diet pill and it helps you lose overall body weight. Dr. Tabor doesn't believe that anyone should allow their body to starve (because in the long run, who can maintain that?) and therefore designed a diet that is low in calories, but high in nutrition.

The protein shakes and bars are low-glycemic, gluten-free, trans-fat free, rich in calcium and Kosher. There are also soy-based options for those who are lactose intolerant. The Slim & Beautiful Diet has not only been found to help in weight loss, but also in making your skin, nails and hair look younger. In addition, the diet has been tested and gives guaranteed results.

Many people find it hard to know what or how much to eat to lose weight. Now you don’t have to worry about that. The diet comes with reference booklets of eating plans. Staying on track with this diet is easy, it even allows for you to eat some of your favorites like chocolate and pasta during your diet! In addition, you can get free nutrition counseling to help you maintain your diet and reach your desired goals.

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June 13, 2011

Fitness PR: High Perfomance Running Shoes with BIOM by ECCO

The BIOM running shoe by ECCO is created using biomechanics and is developed by the University of Cologne. The concept of BIOM, inspired by barefoot runners, is perfect for someone looking for a high performance running shoe. ECCO spent three years of research and development to create the perfect design of the shoe. They scanned foot profiles of 2500 runners to create a replica of the human foot and BIOM is the only shoe on the market that uses direct-injection process (which increases the durability of your shoe.)

ECCO uses durable materials like PU which lasts 1.5 times longer than EVA, which is used in many other shoes. The shoe also has a wide toebox to ensure your toes can spread naturally (so important for a comfortable fit.) Moreover, the shoe has high-traction rubber outsole components, which improve grip and decrease the weight of the shoe allowing you to run fast and freely.

The BIOM project has A and B models of the shoe out already and are working on the C model. The BIOM A is produced using traditional textile mesh which allows for greater ventilation while BIOM B is produced using breakable yak leather which has a greater durability. The supply of Yak leather is very limited and ECCO spent two years to develop an efficient yak tanning method.

The BIOM Project provides us with a shoe that is unique in the running shoe market coming that is as close to the biomechanics of your foot and ankle as possible, allowing you to run as nature intended. It is truly for the athlete looking to push limits.

To check out their collection, visit their website: www.eccousa.com. You should also check out their golf collection that everyone is talking about!

June 27, 2011

Fitness PR: Xbox Kinect Games

Ever feel like you need to work out, but just can’t get yourself to a gym? Sick of kids lying around the house all day playing video games? Xbox’s Kinect system uses revolutionary body scanning technology to get everyone’s butt moving!

Controller-free, Kinect is a motion-sensing input device that connects to the Xbox 360 console. Based around webcam-style technology, players can fully operate the system through body motions and voice commands.

Appealling to everyone, Kinect has games ranging from Fitness Challenges to Ghost Recon, a military game. Shape Fitness rivals the WiiFit system, offering a world of fitness right in your living room with an array of activities to fit different tastes and needs.

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June 28, 2011

The Baby Boomer Diet: Body Ecology's Guide to Growing Younger: Anti-Aging Wisdom for Every Generation

Donna Gates, author of The Baby Boomers Diet, has written and published three other nutritional books. The lecturer and nutritional consultant's first book, The Body Ecology Diet, was written after her struggle with finding a cure to candidiasissince when doctors and medicine were of no help.

The Body Ecology Diet is about building up your immune system so candidaisas and other immune related disorders stop reoccurring. Based on many of the ideas of the original Body Ecology Diet, this new installment focuses primarily one one generation, baby boomers. This new book gives anti-aging secrets and ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet, such as the BED diet. Gates also addresses inflammation and the causes it has on your body and early aging, as well as, the best anti-aging foods to keep around to help not only your appearance but also your energy levels!

As most know the older we get, the less energy we have, but a lot of this depends on what foods you eat and what your diet consists of. This book is all about sticking with the lifestyle you already live, just with a few tweaks to it, cutting out some bad foods, adding in some good, and catching the right amount of hours of sleep. Find it on Amazon.com for $17.70.

July 5, 2011

Fitness PR: Brooklyn Boulders

One of the East Coat’s largest climbing facilities, Brooklyn Boulder is a New York City’s only “fully dedicated climbing gym.” Located on DeGraw Street in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn, the space boasts 22,000 square feet of climbing surface and a skilled staff to match. From beginners to the most experienced climbers, there is something for everyone.

The company offers training classes for those seeking to learn and improve their skills. They strive to continuously provide a welcoming and open atmosphere to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Daily yoga classes and a slackline are also offered within their walls. The gym is also available for special events such as birthdays and private parties.

Since its opening in September of 2009, Brooklyn Boulders has become increasingly popular as a way to escape the city. A day pass ($20) allows you full range of the gym. Don’t have your own gear? Not to worry, a day of rentals will only cost you ten dollars. The founders, experienced climbers, wanted to make an affordable place for New Yorker’s to come, and that’s just what they did.

To view class schedules and other offers, visit www.BrooklynBoulders.com.

Fitness PR: Brooklyn Boulders

One of the East Coat’s largest climbing facilities, Brooklyn Boulder is a New York City’s only “fully dedicated climbing gym.” Located on DeGraw Street in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn, the space boasts 22,000 square feet of climbing surface and a skilled staff to match. From beginners to the most experienced climbers, there is something for everyone.

The company offers training classes for those seeking to learn and improve their skills. They strive to continuously provide a welcoming and open atmosphere to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Daily yoga classes and a slackline are also offered within their walls. The gym is also available for special events such as birthdays and private parties.

Since its opening in September of 2009, Brooklyn Boulders has become increasingly popular as a way to escape the city. A day pass ($20) allows you full range of the gym. Don’t have your own gear? Not to worry, a day of rentals will only cost you ten dollars. The founders, experienced climbers, wanted to make an affordable place for New Yorker’s to come, and that’s just what they did.

To view class schedules and other offers, visit www.BrooklynBoulders.com.

Fitness PR: Brooklyn Boulders

One of the East Coat’s largest climbing facilities, Brooklyn Boulder is a New York City’s only “fully dedicated climbing gym.” Located on DeGraw Street in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn, the space boasts 22,000 square feet of climbing surface and a skilled staff to match. From beginners to the most experienced climbers, there is something for everyone.

The company offers training classes for those seeking to learn and improve their skills. They strive to continuously provide a welcoming and open atmosphere to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Daily yoga classes and a slackline are also offered within their walls. The gym is also available for special events such as birthdays and private parties.

Since its opening in September of 2009, Brooklyn Boulders has become increasingly popular as a way to escape the city. A day pass ($20) allows you full range of the gym. Don’t have your own gear? Not to worry, a day of rentals will only cost you ten dollars. The founders, experienced climbers, wanted to make an affordable place for New Yorker’s to come, and that’s just what they did.

To view class schedules and other offers, visit www.BrooklynBoulders.com.

July 11, 2011

Fitness Trend: Piloxing

New to the fitness world, Piloxing is an exciting inter-disciplinary program to help get you in shape. Uniquely mixing Pilates and boxing, the core-centric workout helps you torch fat and build muscle definition. Organized in interval format, the cardio class will whip you in to great shape in no time.

Created by Swedish dancer and celebrity trainer Viveca Jensen, Piloxing has become a fast growing trend among fitness enthusiasts and celebrities alike. The program blends the power, speed and agility of boxing with the beautiful sculpting and flexibility of Pilates. Viveca also integrates her dance background incorporating fun and sexy dance moves that reflect her personality. The fun and challenging class is perfect for both inexperienced and professionals.

Continue reading "Fitness Trend: Piloxing" »

July 13, 2011

Diet Book PR: Wheat Belly: Lose the Weight and Find Your Path Back to Health

Doctor William Davis, author of the upcoming book Wheat Belly: Lose the Weight, and Find your Path Back to Health is an outstanding cardiologist from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Davis’s new book is about the effects of eating wheat and carb’s and how they negatively impact your health.

Some may say Davis is a bit unconventional, as he has a different view on the heart health industry that he discusses in depth in his book. Davis believes the key to a healthy heart is very easy, cutting out carbohydrates and wheat from your diet. He thinks the whole fuss around heart health is a scam of the medical industry. This idea isn’t too far out there, cardiac care reportedly is worth almost sixty billion dollars, and as a cardiac doctor himself, Davis believed he was completely on top of the new medicines and treatments when his mother died from a heart attack. This began his journey to finding a cure for keeping cholesterol down and arteries unclogged.

This book gives the reader all the correct information on the harm wheat has on our body as well as nutritional tips and recommendations for staying healthy and happy.

This book is available on August 30th, but you can pre-order on Amazon.com.

July 18, 2011

Fitness PR: SoulCycle

One of the fastest growing trends in the fitness world, spinning, has become a cult of sorts. Fitness enthusiasts and loyal cyclists have moved indoors to stationary bikes for their newest endorphin fix. But there was something missing...there are numerous ways for you to break a sweat and physically work your body, but what about the mental aspect?

Owners and founders, Elizabeth Cutler and Julie Rice, faced this same predicament when both relocated to Manhattan. After tireless hours of searching for a suitable activity, they realized they would have to create it. There, SoulCycle was born. “They believed indoor cycling could be inspiring; they both believed that you could incorporate and upper body and core work out during the routine, and finally they believed that with some great branding, a beautiful environment, and outstanding customer service, the 45-minute class could be transformed into a special experience each time.”

Continue reading "Fitness PR: SoulCycle" »

July 25, 2011

Fitness Footwear PR: Vibram Five Fingers

Different than any other footwear on the market today, Vibran Five Fingers delivers a number of positive health benefits. It works with your body’s natural biomechanics and brings you closer to the environment. The flexible Vibram rubber soles allow you to feel the curvature of the grass-covered ground while protecting you from possible sharp objectives.

The virtually barefoot experience allows you to feel like a kid again, free of constricting sneakers. The shoes will stimulate and strengthen muscles in the feet and lower legs, improving your general foot health and preventing injuries. It also can improve your range of motion in ankles, feet and toes since they are no longer limited by a shoe. By removing the platform of a sneaker and lowering the heel, your body weight becomes more evenly distributed across your foot bead and can promote better posture, spinal alignment and balance.

Machine washable, Five Fingers are easy to clean and care for. To learn more about the product and the company behind the revolutionary footwear, visit www.VibramFiveFingers.com.

July 29, 2011

Prime Time: Love; Health; Sex; Fitness; Friendship; Spirit; Making the Most of All of Your Life by Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda: creator of the infamous aeorbic exercise, The Jane Fonda Workout, and Oscar-winning actress, now has another title to add to her list of accomplishments: published author. Jane Fonda’s new book Prime Time is about living well and making the most of life into your 50’s and 60’s. Fonda covers all of the important aspects of living well; Love; Health; Sex; Fitness; Friendship; Spirit, and this is just a summary.

Fonda wants us to take a step back and try to look at life a little differently, especially as we mature and become the people we were always meant to be, Fonda asks us to look at our life and see if we are truly know ourselves. She provides many compelling life stories of her own experiences and those of others to give guidance and hope.

Continue reading "Prime Time: Love; Health; Sex; Fitness; Friendship; Spirit; Making the Most of All of Your Life by Jane Fonda " »

August 1, 2011

Heidi Klum Workout Apparel for New Balance

 

Heidi Klum has always been one of the best known faces in the modeling, fashion and TV worlds. She started out her career in the modeling industry and is well known as being one of the Victoria’s Secret models. As she modeled for the top designers, she became well acquainted with global fashion trends. What amazes me (and I am sure everyone else too) about Heidi Klum, is how she seems to be able to do everything. She was on the Forbes List of the richest and most powerful actors, actresses, and musicians. She is a mom, has a career as a TV show host, a model, and now a designer, and still manages to look stunning. Who would ever guess that she's had a few chidlren? It is no surprise that she works out to maintain her figure.

In order to have a good workout, it is important to feel good. Everyone knows that in order to run comfortably, you need a shoe that is suited to running. Although it has been said many times before, many people do not realize that you are what you wear! If you dress like a slob to the gym, you will not feel motivated to perform your best. On the other hand, if you dress well to the gym, it can not only improve your attitude, but also your performance.

Last Fall, Heidi Klum introduced her line of fitness apparel with New Balance, otherwise known as HKNB. Her collection features pants, hoodies, sweatshirts, versatile sweaters, leggings, tunics, woven and knit tops, dresses, and shoes. Her entire collection looks really stylish and feminine. I am definitely motivated to go for a run! Heidi Klum for New Balance is not currently available in stores but can be purchased at Amazon.com.

Heidi Klum Workout Apparel for New Balance

 

Heidi Klum has always been one of the best known faces in the modeling, fashion and TV worlds. She started out her career in the modeling industry and is well known as being one of the Victoria’s Secret models. As she modeled for the top designers, she became well acquainted with global fashion trends. What amazes me (and I am sure everyone else too) about Heidi Klum, is how she seems to be able to do everything. She was on the Forbes List of the richest and most powerful actors, actresses, and musicians. She is a mom, has a career as a TV show host, a model, and now a designer, and still manages to look stunning. Who would ever guess that she's had a few chidlren? It is no surprise that she works out to maintain her figure.

In order to have a good workout, it is important to feel good. Everyone knows that in order to run comfortably, you need a shoe that is suited to running. Although it has been said many times before, many people do not realize that you are what you wear! If you dress like a slob to the gym, you will not feel motivated to perform your best. On the other hand, if you dress well to the gym, it can not only improve your attitude, but also your performance.

Last Fall, Heidi Klum introduced her line of fitness apparel with New Balance, otherwise known as HKNB. Her collection features pants, hoodies, sweatshirts, versatile sweaters, leggings, tunics, woven and knit tops, dresses, and shoes. Her entire collection looks really stylish and feminine. I am definitely motivated to go for a run! Heidi Klum for New Balance is not currently available in stores but can be purchased at Amazon.com.

August 2, 2011

The Physique 57 Solution: The Groundbreaking 2-Week Plan for a Lean, Beautiful Body by Tanya Becker

The Physique 57 Solution: The Groundbreaking 2-Week Plan for a Lean, Beautifully Body written by Tanya Becker is an extremely effective workout and diet plan where you will be seeing astonishing results within two weeks. This book will give you whatever result you desire, weight loss, body sculpting; it covers all the bases with exercise sequences that work every muscle in your body to give you the beautiful body you have always desired.

Physique 57 started as a fitness studio featuring the modern version of the Lotte Berk method, which began in the 1950’s as a very intense but safe strength-training, mind-body workout combined with a sensual fitness system that created a truly transitional exercise called the Lotte Berk Method. Today the Physique 57 Solution continues this idea of health. These fitness studios have begun to spread to Los Angelos and the Hamptons as clients are seeing these tremendous workout and diet results. Used by many models and actresses, everyone says the same thing, that it is a fun and effective workout!

Continue reading "The Physique 57 Solution: The Groundbreaking 2-Week Plan for a Lean, Beautiful Body by Tanya Becker " »

The Physique 57 Solution: The Groundbreaking 2-Week Plan for a Lean, Beautiful Body by Tanya Becker

The Physique 57 Solution: The Groundbreaking 2-Week Plan for a Lean, Beautifully Body written by Tanya Becker is an extremely effective workout and diet plan where you will be seeing astonishing results within two weeks. This book will give you whatever result you desire, weight loss, body sculpting; it covers all the bases with exercise sequences that work every muscle in your body to give you the beautiful body you have always desired.

Physique 57 started as a fitness studio featuring the modern version of the Lotte Berk method, which began in the 1950’s as a very intense but safe strength-training, mind-body workout combined with a sensual fitness system that created a truly transitional exercise called the Lotte Berk Method. Today the Physique 57 Solution continues this idea of health. These fitness studios have begun to spread to Los Angelos and the Hamptons as clients are seeing these tremendous workout and diet results. Used by many models and actresses, everyone says the same thing, that it is a fun and effective workout!

Continue reading "The Physique 57 Solution: The Groundbreaking 2-Week Plan for a Lean, Beautiful Body by Tanya Becker " »

August 3, 2011

Fitness PR: Laughter Yoga

Simple and profound, this revolutionary fitness idea has become a YouTube sensation and a world wide phenomenon. So what exactly is Laughing Yoga? And how could it possibly be taken seriously? Simple, the new fitness craze combines Unconditional Laughter with Yogic Breathing (Pranayama). The concept behind it is that the body cannot differentiate between fake and real laughter, allowing you to achieve the same physiological and psychological benefits.

Laughter Yoga has been scientifically proven to lower the levels of stress hormones (epinephrine, cortisol, etc.) in your blood, leading you to a more positive and hopeful attitude. Have you ever laughed so hard your abs hurt? You engage your core when you laugh, providing you with physical benefits as well.

Continue reading "Fitness PR: Laughter Yoga" »

August 8, 2011

Fitness PR: The Beast

This high-intensity hybrid exercise routine will not only whip your body into a rock hard machine, but a “well oiled” one at that. Designed by Zach Even-Esh, the workout is based around the Crossfit concept, developing strength and metabolic conditioning. The workout is so effective even the military has been reported to use it in their training. The boot camp style instruction keeps you motivated and ready to go.

In contrast to cardio-based workouts intertwined with strength straining, such as Shaun T’s Insanity workout, The Beast focuses on heavy lifts and intense cardio. In a session you can expect one compound move that works a combination of muscles followed by a ‘metcon’ routine that incorporates multi-joint exercises with moderate weight. Each session focuses on a different area of the body, while still indirectly engaging most muscles.

Continue reading "Fitness PR: The Beast" »

August 15, 2011

Fitness PR: Pole Fitness

Quickly rising to a national phenomenon, the art and sport of pole fitness has become a staple in many people’s workout regimens. The combination of cardio dance moves and core strength training makes it fun and effective. Celebrities and socialites alike have made the jump and begun embracing pole fitness’ unique advantages.

Typically when thinking of pole dancing, people’s minds immediately jump to strip clubs and scantily dressed girls swinging on poles—pole fitness is much more than that. The workout does incorporate a sensual twist but is taught by trained professionals ensuring your workout is fun, safe and tasteful. Classes integrate yoga, Pilates, strength training, cardio and exotic dances moves to build strength, flexibility and self-confidence.

Continue reading "Fitness PR: Pole Fitness" »

August 16, 2011

Fitness PR: VibroGym

VibroGym has discovered new methods and technology that has changed the meaning of luxury fitness. While conventional training routines only allow you to use 40-60% of your body’s muscles, VibroGym uses almost 100% of the body’s muscles. So you can achieve much better results within a short period of time. So what’s so unique about this system? It says it right in the name – VibroGym produces vibrations that are transferred to your body, which causes an increase in strength, flexibility, and blood circulation. Besides just improving your fitness levels, VibroGym also helps maintain your hormone balance and reduces stress levels.

There are many different products that you could start with, but it is important to have a goal in mind before starting. I want to introduce some products that I found interesting to you. VibroGym Evolution is a fitness machine that is perfect for both individual and group workouts. VibroGym Beauty Concept is for people whose goals include weight loss, body shaping, anti-cellulite, skin reconditioning and detoxification. The VibroGym Domestic is for busy people who want to be fit because it provides fitness routines for your home. VibroGym Medical is the only certified MDD vibration plate that is used for treatment and prevention of medical problems. VibroGym Bodywear is the perfect fitness apparel because its technology ensures your body is warm during winter and keeps your body cold during summer. This apparel line is perfect for outdoor activities and is worn by many top athletes.

Continue reading "Fitness PR: VibroGym" »

August 17, 2011

Diet Rehab: 28 Days to Finally Stop Craving the Foods That Make You Fat by Mike Dow

The co-host of TLC’s hit show Freaky Eaters, Mike Dow, has an up and coming diet book that gives you a step-by-step plan for quitting your addiction to junk food in less than a month. The plan in Diet Rehab: 28 Days to Finally Stop Craving the Foods That Make You Fat is based on a study published in 2010 by the Scripps Research Institute. The study found that rats addicted to junk food had just as difficult of a time coming off junk food as rats addicted to cocaine. Similar to humans as we begin our diet and stop eating junk foods, there is a significant drop in our serotonin and dopamine levels. And although we may not think we are addicted to sugary and greasy foods, when we cut them out of our diet, our brain chemistry changes, just as of someone going through withdrawal of cocaine, it affects our moods and emotions.

This book helps you slowly and safely break the addiction, you will slowly integrate more nutritional foods and eliminate junk foods while doing so in such a manner that you don’t have painful withdrawals from the junk food that so many other diets leave out. What makes the transition so easy? Find out in January 2012 when Diet Rehab will be released.

August 24, 2011

Author Paul Kramer Defends Teen Diet Book: Maggie Goes on a Diet

We've discussed pediatric obesity many times at Pierce Mattie PR on this blog; from Jamie Oliver and his Food Revolution to my take on school vending machines to the popularity of video games for child fitness. But now there is a diet book said to target teens by author Paul Kramer that is making waves with parents, not because it is supposed to explain about making "healthy food choices" in a story line, but because it discusses an unhappy, obese child getting bullied then going on a diet, losing weight and living happily ever after as the school's soccer star.

Maggie Goes on a Diet will be released in October, but some parents are already calling a boycott on the book. First of all, its target demographic are girls as young as 6 up to 12. As an aunt of nieces ages 6-9, I can honestly say that I would never choose to teach them about healthy eating habits by getting them a book about dieting. I also wouldn't dare to give them the example of, if you are overwight then you are unhappy and unliked, but if you are thin, you are loved and adored. Sure, most of the time in grade school this is what life boils down to, but do we honestly need to set a precedent as young as 6 that we need to be thin to achieve things in life? Isn't that why we have an epidemic of eating disorders?

We'd like to hear what you think. Tweet us @PierceMattiePR and let us know what you think of a diet book for young girls.

September 12, 2011

Fitness Apparel PR: Lolё

Just the name Lolё sounds so feminine that it is not a surprise that this fitness apparel line is known for its feminine and versatile looks. Lolё clothing is so trendy that you no longer need to change right after a workout to go run your errands. They look cute even outside your gym! Lolё founder Evelyn Trempe’s outlook while creating this brand was that, “You wear what you are. Fabulously feminine. Bold and beautiful. Lover of nature. Happy in your skin. And, always, living your life in motion."

I live on the East Coast and I understand how weather changes sometimes require completely different workout clothes. However, with Lolё, you don’t need to do that anymore. Lolё uses advanced technology that keeps you warm when it is cold and keeps you cool when it is hot. You can use that closet space for something else! Lolё realizes that women all have different body shapes and this apparel is great for all women. (Check out their glossary to see all the cool features Lolё has!)

This Canadian brand has become very popular in the United States because of its cute outfits and wear-ability. Lolё currently carries tops, bottoms, dresses, accessories, outerwear, and ecological apparel. Lolё is an environmentally-friendly brand that tries to ensure using renewable resources and organically grown and processed products. You can learn more about it on their Nature Page.

So what’s new with Lolё? Lolё is working on opening new concept shops called “Lolё workshop,” a harmonious fusion of technology and brand vision that promotes global well-being by fitness and physical activity. Sounds cool, doesn’t it? We’re definitely interested. Are you? Visit Lolё’s website to view their collections and let us know what you think!

September 15, 2011

Weight Loss Expert Gabi Rose Stars in "Absolute Beauty" on Women’s Entertainment Network (WE)

One thing that marketing has taught us over the years is that bigger than life spokespeople (aka celebrities), at least when it comes to weight loss and fitness (and no pun intended), don't work when trying to sell a product or lifestyle. The consumer seems to be sold on the real, everyday person who tried everything, struggled with their weight for years (as most of us have) and then, one day found the solution to their problem. Consumers like testimonials that aren't "all I took was this pill and lost 20lbs overnight!" Despite being a make it happen now society, they like to hear that the solution isn't a magic pill.

That's why diet and fitness expert, Gabi Rose, is so successful. She struggled with her weight, at one time wearing a size 26 and with a dedicated plan to lose the weight in a healthy way, now wears a size 2. While her story of losing 130 pounds may be amazing, as we all know the proof is in the pudding (the low-fat kind...) and losing is only half the battle. The true testiment is when you are able to keep it off. That's when consumers are sold on a lifestyle brand such as Rose's--because it is proven to work.

Women's Entertainment saw this and will now feature Rose in a new series on WE called, "Absolute Beauty." Rose will host the show and spotlight her scientific weight regimen. She'll be traveling to different locations, since obesity is a global epidemic. I'm sure the show will hit a tone with all women looking to figure out not only how to lose the weight, but how to keep it off as well.

Absolute Beauty will begin airing in January 2012.

 

September 23, 2011

Fitness Media PR: Pandora Music Debuts Workout Stations

Pandora, the leading personalized radio service, today announced a genre addition of workout stations. Genre stations on Pandora are stations seeded with artists and albums specific to a certain type of music, mood, event or holiday.  After adding a genre station each individual listener can further personalize and refine the station by providing thumbs-up and thumbs-down feedback.  The twelve new Pandora workout stations are accessible via http://www.pandora.com/#/genres/workout.

Vice President of Corporate Communications, Pandora, Deborah Roth said, "People have been asking for stations designed specifically to get their blood pumping during workouts. We created twelve great stations from various starting points across the music universe, everything from 80's to country to hard rock, all geared toward giving people energizing music to listen to while they're exercising."

Continue reading "Fitness Media PR: Pandora Music Debuts Workout Stations" »

Fitness Media PR: Pandora Music Debuts Workout Stations

Pandora, the leading personalized radio service, today announced a genre addition of workout stations. Genre stations on Pandora are stations seeded with artists and albums specific to a certain type of music, mood, event or holiday.  After adding a genre station each individual listener can further personalize and refine the station by providing thumbs-up and thumbs-down feedback.  The twelve new Pandora workout stations are accessible via http://www.pandora.com/#/genres/workout.

Vice President of Corporate Communications, Pandora, Deborah Roth said, "People have been asking for stations designed specifically to get their blood pumping during workouts. We created twelve great stations from various starting points across the music universe, everything from 80's to country to hard rock, all geared toward giving people energizing music to listen to while they're exercising."

Continue reading "Fitness Media PR: Pandora Music Debuts Workout Stations" »

September 26, 2011

Wellness PR: Spa Vacation Getaway at Bagni di Pisa Resort

When many of us think of vacation spots we immediately envision an all-inclusive resort, room with an ocean view and a soft-sanded beach a few steps away. Well, how about breath-taking Italy and just a few steps away from the Mediterranean Sea? For most of us the main appeal of a vacation is the sense of relaxation it brings. How about an entire resort dedicated to just that, your relaxation? In combining relaxation with the luxurious hotel aspect, Bagni di Pisa Spa Resort has created a harmonic environment to fit your desired needs and aspirations. 

The spa resort is located in Tuscany, Italy, offering six different types of rooms from comfort, to deluxe, to their prestigious suite, which includes a panoramic view of the Tower of Pisa! Included with your stay you are encouraged to use the thermal pools with hydromassages, Swedish saunas, Turkish baths, and their fitness centre. The Bagni di Pisa Resort also encourages you to bring your pets and offers an on-request dog-sitting service! Now, you don't need to stress over finding someone to look after your beloved pet.

The majority of standard hotels offer a few spa treatments, such as facials, or a massage. The Bagni di Pisa resort offers an extensive spa menu, including several different kinds of massages, numerous baths and wraps, and much more! Included in their wellness menu are health and wellness treatments focused around losing weight! The resort also goes by the title of a Medical Thermal Spa, which indicates their specialization in treatments for those that are overweight or obese. What better way to get back on a healthy track than to do so in the luxurious Tuscany, Italy?

In order to help those that are on the wellness plan the on-site restaurants and food available offer a wide range of tastes, including delicious low-calorie menus, vegetarian menus, and cultural specific menus.

Not only do they provide their fitness center but also many activities are presented, like hiking, mountain biking to different villiages, art tours, horseback riding, and more! Near-by airports offer parachuting and hand gliding sports to participate in! Being surrounded by such enriching culture and natural characteristics, like the Mediterranean Sea, is bound to make your vacation experience an enjoyable and memorable one.

Right now they have September promotions going on! Check them out and let us know what you think by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR!

October 11, 2011

Exercise Media: Bicycling Magazine Sprints Toward 50th Birthday

bicycling%20magazine%20public%20relations.jpg

Rodale Inc.’s Bicycling magazine, the world’s leading and now longest continually-published cycling magazine commemorates its 50th anniversary this month within the pages of its November 2011 issue, on newsstands now.

The magazine, founded as “Northern California Velosport Newsletter” in 1961 and subsequently purchased, revamped and re-christened as Bicycling by the late Bob Rodale in 1978, commemorates its golden anniversary in the November issue with special contributions from celebrated writers who include Susan Orlean (The Orchid Thief), who chronicles riding through France’s famed Loire Valley, as well as John Brant, who provides an in-depth profile of the legendary cycling champion Eddy Merckx.

Also included within the issue are Bicycling’s selections of game-changing, timeless bikes and gear worthy of inclusion in its Editors Choice Hall of Fame, a preview of new bikes for 2012, along with the “50 Greatest Tips of All-Time” and the “50 Best Rides on Earth.”

“It’s a humbling time to be the steward of this great brand, but I’m confident that our November issue pays proper tribute to this amazing milestone,” said Bicycling Editor-in-chief Peter Flax.

Publishing Bicycling is one of many contributions the Rodale family has made to the sport since it acquired the magazine following Bob Rodale’s introduction to the sport at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. Just six years later, the Rodale family conceptualized, funded and built the now-famous velodrome in Trexlertown, PA in 1974, which has transformed Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley—the magazine’s editorial home—into a year-round cycling epicenter that is home to many current and former world and national cycling champions.

Continue reading "Exercise Media: Bicycling Magazine Sprints Toward 50th Birthday" »

Exercise Media: Bicycling Magazine Sprints Toward 50th Birthday

bicycling%20magazine%20public%20relations.jpg

Rodale Inc.’s Bicycling magazine, the world’s leading and now longest continually-published cycling magazine commemorates its 50th anniversary this month within the pages of its November 2011 issue, on newsstands now.

The magazine, founded as “Northern California Velosport Newsletter” in 1961 and subsequently purchased, revamped and re-christened as Bicycling by the late Bob Rodale in 1978, commemorates its golden anniversary in the November issue with special contributions from celebrated writers who include Susan Orlean (The Orchid Thief), who chronicles riding through France’s famed Loire Valley, as well as John Brant, who provides an in-depth profile of the legendary cycling champion Eddy Merckx.

Also included within the issue are Bicycling’s selections of game-changing, timeless bikes and gear worthy of inclusion in its Editors Choice Hall of Fame, a preview of new bikes for 2012, along with the “50 Greatest Tips of All-Time” and the “50 Best Rides on Earth.”

“It’s a humbling time to be the steward of this great brand, but I’m confident that our November issue pays proper tribute to this amazing milestone,” said Bicycling Editor-in-chief Peter Flax.

Publishing Bicycling is one of many contributions the Rodale family has made to the sport since it acquired the magazine following Bob Rodale’s introduction to the sport at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. Just six years later, the Rodale family conceptualized, funded and built the now-famous velodrome in Trexlertown, PA in 1974, which has transformed Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley—the magazine’s editorial home—into a year-round cycling epicenter that is home to many current and former world and national cycling champions.

Continue reading "Exercise Media: Bicycling Magazine Sprints Toward 50th Birthday" »

Exercise Media: Bicycling Magazine Sprints Toward 50th Birthday

bicycling%20magazine%20public%20relations.jpg

Rodale Inc.’s Bicycling magazine, the world’s leading and now longest continually-published cycling magazine commemorates its 50th anniversary this month within the pages of its November 2011 issue, on newsstands now.

The magazine, founded as “Northern California Velosport Newsletter” in 1961 and subsequently purchased, revamped and re-christened as Bicycling by the late Bob Rodale in 1978, commemorates its golden anniversary in the November issue with special contributions from celebrated writers who include Susan Orlean (The Orchid Thief), who chronicles riding through France’s famed Loire Valley, as well as John Brant, who provides an in-depth profile of the legendary cycling champion Eddy Merckx.

Also included within the issue are Bicycling’s selections of game-changing, timeless bikes and gear worthy of inclusion in its Editors Choice Hall of Fame, a preview of new bikes for 2012, along with the “50 Greatest Tips of All-Time” and the “50 Best Rides on Earth.”

“It’s a humbling time to be the steward of this great brand, but I’m confident that our November issue pays proper tribute to this amazing milestone,” said Bicycling Editor-in-chief Peter Flax.

Publishing Bicycling is one of many contributions the Rodale family has made to the sport since it acquired the magazine following Bob Rodale’s introduction to the sport at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. Just six years later, the Rodale family conceptualized, funded and built the now-famous velodrome in Trexlertown, PA in 1974, which has transformed Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley—the magazine’s editorial home—into a year-round cycling epicenter that is home to many current and former world and national cycling champions.

Continue reading "Exercise Media: Bicycling Magazine Sprints Toward 50th Birthday" »

October 17, 2011

Fitness Media: Fitness RX Magazine For Women

If you’re looking to get into great shape and want to maintain your perfect bod through the upcoming winter months - I would suggest checking out Fitness RX Magazine For Women. It offers an abundance of tips on health, nutrition, diet, exercise and even fashion! What I love about this magazine is that it offers many different viewpoints so you know exactly what you are getting yourself into. Fitness RX offers scientific viewpoints, as well as the traditional body, beauty and health approach.

Fitness RX Magazine offers nutrition facts and diets to follow, as well as exercises and instructions on how to achieve your ideal weight and body type. It provides great motivation, and success stories that keep your mind set on your goal.

You may have heard of Fitness RX through the competitions they host. They host many competitions, focused on the fitness level and achievement of selected women. These are really interesting and motivating stories too!

It is not just their magazine that is extremely helpful, but their website as well. They have many workout videos and exercise tips to guide you as well as a radio show on Mondays @ 8PM EST with Ms. Bikini Olympia Sonia Gonzalez and Adela Garcia, a five-time fitness olympia!

This is truly a great magazine for someone who wants to achieve or maintain his or her ideal weight and body shape! It gives you the keys and tips in order to lose weight and gain muscle.

The October issue features a five-day total body makeover. If you’re looking to get fit and in the best shape of your life - I would highly suggest getting a subscription to Fitness RX for Women! Do you read this magazine? Let us know by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR!

October 31, 2011

Indoor Cycling and Fitness with Flywheel Sports

Flywheel Sports is a new and revitalizing way to workout. Flywheel combines indoor cycling with talented and thoroughly experienced instructors along with great upbeat music, to give you one of the most enjoyable and effective workouts you’ve ever had. It is reported to be one of the best fitness studios in New York and holds the most prestigious trainers that not only coach and motivate you through each cycling class, but join in the workout - so they are sweating and working just as hard as you!

Flywheel Sports has locations all across New York, with each studio offering many instructors and classes. Not only does Flywheel provide a great workout technique with established fitness experts, but also their atmosphere and environment is both inspiring and encouraging. By offering high-end bikes for members to use, a clean workout area, and modern design aspects, they have achieved an ultimately motivating and bright fitness studio.

If you are eager to try Flywheel and see what everybody is talking about, you don’t have to purchase a full membership, you can purchase single rides, 5, 10, or 20 rides which enable you to experience the cycling classes as a member would - And a great way to try it out and see if indoor cycling is for you. For those who want to try, but don’t live in New York, Flywheel also has studios located across Florida and Chicago.

Indoor cycling is perfect for those who like to cycle and want to stay fit! Have you tried Flywheel Sports? Tweet us what you think @PierceMattiePR

Indoor Cycling and Fitness with Flywheel Sports

Flywheel Sports is a new and revitalizing way to workout. Flywheel combines indoor cycling with talented and thoroughly experienced instructors along with great upbeat music, to give you one of the most enjoyable and effective workouts you’ve ever had. It is reported to be one of the best fitness studios in New York and holds the most prestigious trainers that not only coach and motivate you through each cycling class, but join in the workout - so they are sweating and working just as hard as you!

Flywheel Sports has locations all across New York, with each studio offering many instructors and classes. Not only does Flywheel provide a great workout technique with established fitness experts, but also their atmosphere and environment is both inspiring and encouraging. By offering high-end bikes for members to use, a clean workout area, and modern design aspects, they have achieved an ultimately motivating and bright fitness studio.

If you are eager to try Flywheel and see what everybody is talking about, you don’t have to purchase a full membership, you can purchase single rides, 5, 10, or 20 rides which enable you to experience the cycling classes as a member would - And a great way to try it out and see if indoor cycling is for you. For those who want to try, but don’t live in New York, Flywheel also has studios located across Florida and Chicago.

Indoor cycling is perfect for those who like to cycle and want to stay fit! Have you tried Flywheel Sports? Tweet us what you think @PierceMattiePR

Indoor Cycling and Fitness with Flywheel Sports

Flywheel Sports is a new and revitalizing way to workout. Flywheel combines indoor cycling with talented and thoroughly experienced instructors along with great upbeat music, to give you one of the most enjoyable and effective workouts you’ve ever had. It is reported to be one of the best fitness studios in New York and holds the most prestigious trainers that not only coach and motivate you through each cycling class, but join in the workout - so they are sweating and working just as hard as you!

Flywheel Sports has locations all across New York, with each studio offering many instructors and classes. Not only does Flywheel provide a great workout technique with established fitness experts, but also their atmosphere and environment is both inspiring and encouraging. By offering high-end bikes for members to use, a clean workout area, and modern design aspects, they have achieved an ultimately motivating and bright fitness studio.

If you are eager to try Flywheel and see what everybody is talking about, you don’t have to purchase a full membership, you can purchase single rides, 5, 10, or 20 rides which enable you to experience the cycling classes as a member would - And a great way to try it out and see if indoor cycling is for you. For those who want to try, but don’t live in New York, Flywheel also has studios located across Florida and Chicago.

Indoor cycling is perfect for those who like to cycle and want to stay fit! Have you tried Flywheel Sports? Tweet us what you think @PierceMattiePR

Indoor Cycling and Fitness with Flywheel Sports

Flywheel Sports is a new and revitalizing way to workout. Flywheel combines indoor cycling with talented and thoroughly experienced instructors along with great upbeat music, to give you one of the most enjoyable and effective workouts you’ve ever had. It is reported to be one of the best fitness studios in New York and holds the most prestigious trainers that not only coach and motivate you through each cycling class, but join in the workout - so they are sweating and working just as hard as you!

Flywheel Sports has locations all across New York, with each studio offering many instructors and classes. Not only does Flywheel provide a great workout technique with established fitness experts, but also their atmosphere and environment is both inspiring and encouraging. By offering high-end bikes for members to use, a clean workout area, and modern design aspects, they have achieved an ultimately motivating and bright fitness studio.

If you are eager to try Flywheel and see what everybody is talking about, you don’t have to purchase a full membership, you can purchase single rides, 5, 10, or 20 rides which enable you to experience the cycling classes as a member would - And a great way to try it out and see if indoor cycling is for you. For those who want to try, but don’t live in New York, Flywheel also has studios located across Florida and Chicago.

Indoor cycling is perfect for those who like to cycle and want to stay fit! Have you tried Flywheel Sports? Tweet us what you think @PierceMattiePR

Indoor Cycling and Fitness with Flywheel Sports

Flywheel Sports is a new and revitalizing way to workout. Flywheel combines indoor cycling with talented and thoroughly experienced instructors along with great upbeat music, to give you one of the most enjoyable and effective workouts you’ve ever had. It is reported to be one of the best fitness studios in New York and holds the most prestigious trainers that not only coach and motivate you through each cycling class, but join in the workout - so they are sweating and working just as hard as you!

Flywheel Sports has locations all across New York, with each studio offering many instructors and classes. Not only does Flywheel provide a great workout technique with established fitness experts, but also their atmosphere and environment is both inspiring and encouraging. By offering high-end bikes for members to use, a clean workout area, and modern design aspects, they have achieved an ultimately motivating and bright fitness studio.

If you are eager to try Flywheel and see what everybody is talking about, you don’t have to purchase a full membership, you can purchase single rides, 5, 10, or 20 rides which enable you to experience the cycling classes as a member would - And a great way to try it out and see if indoor cycling is for you. For those who want to try, but don’t live in New York, Flywheel also has studios located across Florida and Chicago.

Indoor cycling is perfect for those who like to cycle and want to stay fit! Have you tried Flywheel Sports? Tweet us what you think @PierceMattiePR

November 7, 2011

Military Style Workout: Warrior Fitness Boot Camp

Working out in a regular gym facility with all the same machines and circuits can start to make you feel unmotivated by routinely conducting the same workout, using the same muscles while ignoring others. One of the finest ideas that steers away from that routine workout is brought to us through Warrior Fitness Boot Camp. This fitness program is an indoor obstacle course run by ex-marines. The obstacle course is designed so members, or as the instructors refer to as ‘warriors’, are constantly working different muscles - some that you have never used in a workout before. These ex-marine instructors encourage and motivate you throughout a marine-like workout, giving you a taste of what they went through and what goes on in the marine. The instructors design no workout alike, which enables warriors to constantly be working different muscles for an ultimate workout with amazing results.

Warrior Boot Camp is flooded with good reviews and feedback, everyone that has joined admits that it is extremely difficult, but even more rewarding - In regards to health, weight loss, stamina, and ultimately confidence. The group of warriors you are with enable great motivation among everyone in the class, which leads to a more rewarding workout. 

The facility is located on 35th Street in New York City, and because it is an indoor facility it is available and open to us all year long. The schedules run 7 days a week, with classes (each an hour long) starting as early as 5:30AM and late as 7:30PM - So it is definitely possible to input a warrior workout into your busy schedule. For more information and updates be sure to like their Facebook page, and follow Warrior Fitness Boot Camp on Twitter @WarriorFitness.

Have you experienced the marine-style workout? Let us know what you think @PierceMattiePR.

November 22, 2011

The Yoga Back Book with Stella Weller

As I write this hunched over at my desk for the last 8 hours, my back screams in pain. So what more appropriate book to write about than The Yoga Back Book: The Natural Solution to Freedom from Pain by Stella Weller. The book covers yoga stretches, exercises and other relaxation techniques as a means to gently promote spinal health without drugs or surgery.

Yoga fanatics know that the poses and breathing help you to become more aware of your body's posture, alignment and patterns of movement. It also makes your body more flexible and helps you to relax even in the most stressful situations. 80% of people complain about back pain in one way or another, and learning some simple techniques without a pricey gym membership for Yoga classes, may be effective way to relieve some pain. 

Weller's book is available for pre-ordering for about $13 on Amazon. Have you used Yoga to help alleviate back pain? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

November 28, 2011

Fitness NYC: Dance Your Way to a Holiday Body

Many recent studies have revealed that the best workout to melt away your belly fat and achieve definition is not weight training, not running with cardio machines, but dancing! Dancing is said to be the absolute best exercise to get rid of excess fat, especially around your mid-section - Not to say that you can dance for a half hour and then reward yourself with a hot fudge brownie or a plate of greasy French fries… however dancing may help you target your trouble areas better than alternate exercises.

If you have the opportunity, dancing with a partner encourages your participation and you can push each other to enable for a better workout and ultimately, better outcome. However if your exercise patterns and schedule does not allow you to dance with a workout-buddy, dance workout DVDs are great for quick and fun workouts that you can accomplish on your own. A fun type to try is Salsa dancing - the “SalsaCrazy” Dance DVDs are popular and reported to be fun and energizing lessons. Another different type to try Hula dancing - these moves are said to strengthen your arms and core. A good DVD to try is “Hot Hula Fitness (Anna-Rita is the girl featured in the Turbo Jam workout series.)

For the adventurous ladies… the intense strength and muscle one can build from pole dancing is amazing. The exotic art form allows you to use muscles you never even knew you had. A really fun fitness center, which I had the pleasure of being a part of their Coyote Ugly class, is Flirty Girl Fitness. They offer a variety of workout classes, and provide a feminine and exciting environment, with locations all over the States. Another similar fitness center is NYC Pole Dancing, offering exercise classes as well as parties and events - A lot of fun for Bachelorette Parties too!

My favourite form of dance in terms of a great workout is Hip Hop - It gets your heart rate up and is actually makes sweating fun and enjoyable. What's your favourite style? I'm sure after attempting some of these fitness styles we will be able to - somewhat - relate and imagine more vividly what they are talking about on Dancing With The Stars. 

Have you tried any of these dance fitness approaches? Let us know by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR.

December 5, 2011

Shea Vaughn’s Breakthrough: The 5 Living Principles to Defeat Stress, Look Great, and Find Total Well-Being

 

As we’ve all seen and heard, one of the best ways to get fit and relieve stress is through yoga and pilates. Vince Vaughn’s mother, Shea Vaughn has lived her life in belief that stress and negative attributes can be eliminated through yoga and exercise practices.  - And as we can all see in the above image, for a woman in her seventies…. She looks ah-maz-ing!

Shea has written a book that shares her knowledge on how to live a healthy and positive lifestyle. Shea Vaughn’s Breakthrough: The 5 Living Principles to Defeat Stress, Look Great, and Find Total Well-Being contains her thoughts and advice on how to achieve a healthy and successful life. The 5 living principles she refers to are: commitment, perseverance, self-control, integrity, and love, all of which contribute to anti-aging and stress-relieving methods.

Shea uses yoga, tai chi, martial arts, dance and pilates to stay fit and healthy along with a positive and committed mind sight. In her book she explains and guides you how to achieve this ideal lifestyle.

Breakthrough is a good learning and inspiration tool to kick off your new healthy and fit lifestyle. What better way to being a new year with a new, healthier and stress-free lifestyle?

Are you going to read Breakthrough? Also a good Holiday gift idea for those on your list. Let us know what you think @PierceMattiePR.

December 12, 2011

PR Tips For Bally's Fitness & LA Fitness

Last week Bally's Total Fitness was sold to LA Fitness...unbeknownest to many Bally's members who only found out when they attempted to check in for their work out, and sadly, for some Bally's employees when they showed up to work only to find out they were out of a job. While buy-outs and acquisitions happen all of the time, there is usually open communication with current employees and customers. A lot of time is usually spent in regards to public relations to made the transition seamless. Not the case the LA Fitness' purchase and now, as a result of this side-stepping avoidance tactic, LA Fitness is looking at a class-action lawsuit.

PR Issue #1: LA Fitness is allegedly not honoring Bally's lifetime memberships and instead is asking current members to re-sign with LA Fitness paying new fees.

PR Resolution: This is a no brainer--honor the lifetime memberships. There are plenty of gyms out there that current members can make the switch to. If you aren't willing to honor those lifetime memberships, it is virtually guaranteed members won't re-sign with LA Fitness. 

PR Issue #2: The serious lack of communication heightens members and current employees level of skepticism and uneasiness about the transition.

PR Resolution: Each location should hold a membership meeting and separate employee meeting explaining what the sale means to that location. Hear out concerns and answer questions. 

PR Issue #3: There's buzz of a class-action lawsuit surrounding the shady practices of LA Fitness during this acquisition.

PR Resolution: Should a lawsuit be filed, it should be settled out of court. Lifetime members who will to not return to LA Fitness at all should receive a partial refund; those who choose to stay should have those memberships honored. Anyone with a yearly membership should have it honored until the end of the current contract.

Handled correctly going forward, and keeping all lines of communication open, should help LA Fitness change this PR crisis into something positive.

Tweet us your thoughts @PierceMattiePR.

December 14, 2011

Spa Lifestyle PR: Wellness Services in NYC at Bunya CitiSPA

 

Although this time of year is exciting and cheerful, it can induce a lot of unwanted anxiety and stress. Bunya CitiSPA, located in New York on West Broadway, is a wonderful place for you to relieve your tension and just relax. Through a combination of cultural therapies and treatments they are bound to leave you feeling refreshed and energized.

Their spa menu consists of therapeutic massages, body treatments, massages and treatments for men, facials and nails & waxing - so if you are already miraculously stress-free this season, treat yourself to a well-deserved mani-pedi.

Bunya CitiSPA also has a “Mid-Winter Special” going on, with very attractive deals - my favourite being their ‘Rapid Four Hand Massage’ - just the sound of this makes you crave relaxation. Where two masseuses give you a full body massage for either 60 minutes for $140 USD or 90 minutes for $200 - How could you say no to that?

Another great winter special is their ‘Vitamin C Facial’ for $110, where you endure 70 heavenly minutes, of calming anti-aging and skin-softening treatments, and then a lavishing facial massage ­- which might just send you into a blissful nap….

Thoughtful Gift Alert: Who wouldn’t love a luxurious massage or defining treatment for the holidays? You can purchase a gift card to Bunya CitiSPA in any increment so your loved one can experience the true pleasure of relaxation.

Are you going to take advantage of their Winter Deals? Let us know what Bunya CitiSPA specials you chose by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR

December 20, 2011

Fitness & Health Communications; CLAY New York City

 

As health and fitness expert Jillian Michaels says, “you can eat your way through any workout.” Who wants to put in all the effort and strength and not see results because you’re pairing your exercise with an unhealthy diet? CLAY is a fitness and health club, located on West 14th Street, designed to help and guide you through all these steps by combining personal training, various fitness classes and spa treatments and best of all, nutrition guidance. Which is perfect, because now there is really no excuse to tell yourself, they are providing all the help you need to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.

CLAY offers different nutrition guidance sessions, my favourite being the “Market Tour” and “Kitchen Renewal.” So you can feel like you’re right out of your favourite lifestyle transformation shows. The Market Tour involves you and an expert taking a trip to the grocery and going over what is healthy and why and what types of food you should stay away from. Similarly the Kitchen Renewal program is a nutrition clean up of your fridge, teaching how to transform your unhealthy habits.

I always find it is best to workout in classes or groups because you encourage each other to push a little bit harder. CLAY provides its members with a variety of fitness classes from yoga and sweat classes to power and core sessions. CLAY offers a number of perfect features that everyone would want in a health club: pilates studio, lounge, concierge and café services, full gym and exercise equipment, personal training and best of all ideal spa services that are perfect for a post-workout recovery session.

Are you a member of CLAY? Try out a trail membership to a luxurious heath club and let us know what you think @PierceMattiePR.

December 27, 2011

De-Stress for 2012 at Great Jones Spa in NYC

 

At this hectic and stressful time of year, what sounds better than a relaxing spa day, to focus on refreshing and renewing your spirit? The Great Jones Spa, located on Great Jones Street in NYC, provides award winning spa services, from specific treatments, to waxing and massages, the Great Jones Spa seems to offer it all. My favorite treatment the Great Jones Spa offers is the Reiki Massage - priced at $120.00 for 60 minutes - which provides you with more energy and a lingering relaxing feeling.

The Great Jones Spa also offers many enticing amenities such as their water lounge, - which offers services like thermal hot tub, steam rooms and saunas; a hair salon with luxurious cuts starting at $90.00 and makeup application starting at $85.00, which works out to be very convenient for an ultimate spa day: relaxing treatments combined with hair and makeup services to make you look radiant and beautiful. A fabulous makeup service offered by the Great Jones Spa is a makeup lesson, which is divine for learning how to achieve your desired look yourself - and finally, a juice bar - where you can sit and enjoy fresh juices off of their menu.

Great Jones Spa also offers gift certificates in any increment desired, which makes for a convenient gift.

Another great aspect of Great Jones Spa is that you can book services and treatments online, making it even more convenient to add to your schedule.

Have you tried any Great Jones Spa treatments? Let us know your favorite @PierceMattiePR.

January 2, 2012

Top 3 Fitness Classes to Kick Off a Healthier 2012

 

It’s a New Year and it’s time to start saving and building equity…in our bodies.  Fitness and physical health is parallel to building credit.  The more time and effort we invest at the gym or staying active in any which way, is in essence comparable to the money and efforts we invest into our savings, NASDAQ, etc.  The more invested results in more value, greater credit and more equity; in other words, the more invested equals greater physical and mental health as well.  Neither of these assets come about without action.  Each individual must start somewhere, and sometime…why wait?

So you’re not into pumping iron at the gym or running endless miles on the treadmill…check out the various nature of classes that majority of gyms have to offer. 

1. Boot Camp Classes offer a blend of circuit training exercises and aerobic activities, essentially giving you two workouts in one.  With constant cardio and an elevated heart rate, these concentrated classes will have you looking and feeling your best in no time.  Among these full-body workout classes, expect to burn 400-600 calories, using boxing drills, free weights, jump ropes, etc.  Now how’s that for an entertaining workout?

2.  Cycling Classes are better suited for those who are searching for something a bit more motionless, and less bouncing all over the place.  Don’t let this fool you regarding the level of intensity and exertion put in.  Pedal your little heart out; all the while burning an immense amount of calories, lowering your total cholesterol, decreasing stress, reducing the risk of certain diseases, and improving overall heart and lung health.

3. Water Exercise Classes aren’t the most prominent of classes offered at gyms.  In my eyes it’s almost like a hidden treasure that has not yet been discovered.  Thus, I have deliberately saved the best for last.  Have you ever caught yourself checking out a swimmer’s body and saying to yourself, “gee, I wish I looked like that!”  Evidently, swimming has proven to be one of the most superlative of workouts, as far as toning your body, reducing body fat, improving flexibility, and building strength. 

Leave your boredom behind when attempting to build that fitness credit line this year.  Each of these three types of classes will keep you absorbed and motivated. Do you agree with the idea of fitness being comparable to credit and equity?  What are your thoughts? Let us know @PierceMattiePR.

January 9, 2012

Fish Consumption in a Vegetarian World

It seems whenever we try to solve a problem we end up creating another problem in order to solve the original one. Now that problem “A” is solved what are we going to do about problem “B” that was created in the wake of problem “A”? It is frustrating and somewhat depressing always having to choose between the lesser of two evils. We are facing this paradox in the unlikeliest of markets today: seafood.

Seafood is in growing demand so going out and catching a lot of fish puts burden on the wild stocks of fish. To solve this problem fish farming methods were created to help ease the burden on these stocks. Here is the problem: In order to raise fish on a farm you have to catch smaller fish to feed the fish that will be served to seafood lovers. The cycle of lesser evils begins. Or does it?

Researchers at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology have developed a plant-based diet for three kinds of popular fish. Basically they have put these fish on a vegetarian diet. Our first thought? What is this going to make the fish taste like? According to the institute taste-testers have not been able to taste the difference between the plant-eating vegan fish and their flesh-eating brothers. Although we are on the right track to solving two problems they have only taste-tested fish that were on a partial plant and fish oil diet, not on a completely plant-eating fish.

There is a good plan set for the future to protect our beloved seafood demands. This is actually solving a lot of problems. It is putting less stress on wild fish stocks. Secondly, ecosystems are fragile and when you start taking species out of this delicate balance something sooner or later is going to get thrown off. Finally (and probably most important to us), we get to enjoy our healthy and sought after seafood.

Tweet us your thoughts @PierceMattiePR.

*Photo source: delish.com

January 11, 2012

Wellness Public Relations: Amazon Responds to the Online Grocery Trend with AmazonFresh

 

Along with keeping up with the resolutions of the new year, not only comes staying physically fit through exercise, but by way of healthy eating as well.  Not to say that either of these practices are obligatory, yet combining both actions is the most efficient way to a healthier and better looking body. For a while here in NY, we've had FreshDirect and now Amazon has answered the call for the West coast

AmazonFresh offers many of the same online grocery shopping abilities like ordering fresh produce, the use of mobile apps for iPhone, Android and Windows 7, as well as delivery. However, AmazonFresh has the one thing FreshDirect and their competitors don't have...AmazonNow, which basically is a tab tapping into Amazon.com that you can add to your order. AmazonFresh offers fresh fruits and vegetables and about 15,000 nonperishable choices of groceries as well.  And how can you beat a free delivery offer?

Each customer has the delivery option of either the Pre-Dawn Delivery Process (which is before 6 a.m.) or sometime throughout the day at Doorstep Delivery option.  Right now specific zip codes do apply for the mentioned services in Seattle. 

Do you think we'll begin to see more online grocers like AmazonFresh? Have you tried it yourself?  Let us know at @PierceMattiePR.  

January 16, 2012

Downsize Fitness Motivates the Overweight in Weight Loss Goals

Catering to the overweight, Downsize Fitness of Las Vegas and Chicago, is designed to not only drop those lbs, but to drop those insecurities as well.

It’s never been heard of…a place where skinny people aren’t welcome.  Well, that’s a fact for Downsize Fitness, where in order to be eligible for membership, one must be at least 50 lbs overweight.  In striving toward their weight loss goal of 50 lbs plus, once reached, a member of the gym is considered a graduate and can then begin working out elsewhere. 

The gym’s main purpose is to create a comfortable atmosphere where a client doesn’t feel judged or sized-up…literally.  It is exceedingly common for an overweight gym member to walk into a gym feeling intimidated and even more unmotivated when they are being out-jogged by a bunch of Jillian Michaels and Brock Lesnars.    Downsize Fitness rids one of all those anxious feelings, along with a complementary consultation offered as motivation to get started immediately.  

Do you think this is a clever marketing approach?  Could this be considered discrimination, although it is intended to address a true issue for those looking to lose weight and regain a healthy lifestyle?  Let us know @PierceMattiePR.

January 17, 2012

Wellness Media: Personal Trainer Trend with Method Fitness

It is now a few weeks into January – have you started up on those New Year's resolutions yet? If you haven’t, why not? If you have, how’s it going for you? Every year we make the same resolutions we did the last year: to eat healthier, work out more, relax, lose weight, quit smoking, etc. The reason we have to make the same resolutions over and over is because the healthy food starts to taste boring, the gym becomes monotonous, we overwhelm ourselves at work, and we can’t curb those cravings. THE SOLUTION: TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR 2012. Take a new route with your resolutions that you haven’t tried before.

Those first few days back at the gym can be exhilarating. You feel powerful and strong, and you think to yourself “this is the year I’m going to like working out.” And then it gets boring. The same workout routine day after day grows tiring and finding the motivation to get yourself to the gym becomes impossible. So as 2012 is beginning, the way to change this problem is to get a personal trainer.

With a personal trainer your workouts are different every single time so they don’t become boring and your trainer is holding you accountable, and you wouldn’t want to let your trainer down, would you? You are also paying for a personal trainer so why not get your monies worth? A personal trainer will push you in a way you have never been pushed; you will grow to hate your trainer, but love him or her at the same time. You will roll out of bed and groan in pain, but a smile will crawl across your face because that pain is a pain we all crave.

If you’re in the Manhattan area you should check out Method Fitness. They have every type of training one could want including personal training at the gym, personal training in the comfort of your own home, and 1 on 2 training sessions (in case you need a little more motivation from a good friend.)

Method Fitness has training programs that include a full lifestyle, health and fitness assessment, training programs you can take on vacation with you, and a personal fitness regimen made especially for your body type and needs. 

Take advantage of a new start and become the best you possible. Do something different this 2012. Don’t make your New Year's resolution to get in shape or lose weight again in 2013. What other methods do you use to boost your motivation to get to the gym? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Wellness Media: Personal Trainer Trend with Method Fitness

It is now a few weeks into January – have you started up on those New Year's resolutions yet? If you haven’t, why not? If you have, how’s it going for you? Every year we make the same resolutions we did the last year: to eat healthier, work out more, relax, lose weight, quit smoking, etc. The reason we have to make the same resolutions over and over is because the healthy food starts to taste boring, the gym becomes monotonous, we overwhelm ourselves at work, and we can’t curb those cravings. THE SOLUTION: TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR 2012. Take a new route with your resolutions that you haven’t tried before.

Those first few days back at the gym can be exhilarating. You feel powerful and strong, and you think to yourself “this is the year I’m going to like working out.” And then it gets boring. The same workout routine day after day grows tiring and finding the motivation to get yourself to the gym becomes impossible. So as 2012 is beginning, the way to change this problem is to get a personal trainer.

With a personal trainer your workouts are different every single time so they don’t become boring and your trainer is holding you accountable, and you wouldn’t want to let your trainer down, would you? You are also paying for a personal trainer so why not get your monies worth? A personal trainer will push you in a way you have never been pushed; you will grow to hate your trainer, but love him or her at the same time. You will roll out of bed and groan in pain, but a smile will crawl across your face because that pain is a pain we all crave.

If you’re in the Manhattan area you should check out Method Fitness. They have every type of training one could want including personal training at the gym, personal training in the comfort of your own home, and 1 on 2 training sessions (in case you need a little more motivation from a good friend.)

Method Fitness has training programs that include a full lifestyle, health and fitness assessment, training programs you can take on vacation with you, and a personal fitness regimen made especially for your body type and needs. 

Take advantage of a new start and become the best you possible. Do something different this 2012. Don’t make your New Year's resolution to get in shape or lose weight again in 2013. What other methods do you use to boost your motivation to get to the gym? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

January 20, 2012

Fitness Public Relations: TRX Suspension Training

Being healthy is a major player in today’s pop culture. You don’t have to spend very long watching television, reading a magazine waiting for an appointment or surfing your favorite internet sites before you come across someone selling something to help you get in shape. Unless you are a fitness guru, the rest of us probably have a similar thought. Yeah, it would be nice to get in shape, but I just don’t have the time. After all, who doesn’t want to look good? It’s time to put the same excuse we have been using for years to bed. TRX Suspension Training to the rescue.

Created in the NAVY Seals, TRX Suspension Training is the premier workout for home gyms. TRX uses the formula gravity + users body weight = results. TRX suspends the users body weight as resistance to build muscle. The package comes with exercise DVDs to walk you through the process with beginner, intermediate or advanced workouts. It builds the body’s core by allowing for free range of motion. Simultaneously you will develop strength, balance and flexibility. TRX is quickly changing the way athletes and soldiers train as well as becoming a popular resource for injury rehabilitation.

You might be asking yourself, why is this any better or different than anything else out there? Here is the cool thing about TRX: You can take it anywhere. You don’t have to drive to the gym in the morning or after work when you are tired, just set it up at home. On the road? No problem, take it with you and set it up in your hotel. Maybe you are tired of being stuck inside after being in the office all day, go set it up in the park. The best part is that its simple in design but it gets the results that you want.

TRX provides the means to reach your fitness goals this year, now all you need to find is the desire to be your best self. Join the TRX community at www.trxtraining.com.Have you tried it? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

*Photo Source: Harmony Body

January 23, 2012

Ditch Your Boring Workout Routine and Get Results with CrossFit

As we pass through each year, workout programs seem to come and go. We are watching for the newest workout to keep our bodies healthy. One claims to have the newest “technology” to help us get the lean, firm body that we have been trying to achieve for years (at least that is what we tell ourselves). They become the latest fad, everyone buys into it and then it dies out. Why?

The biggest factor in succeeding with fitness goals is if you have someone to support you, to do it with you or at least motivate you so you don’t give up. CrossFit is the latest trend for people who are trying to get in shape and it has the makings to stick around for a long time.

CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program. Police academies, military operations and professional athletes around the world use the program. It is not a specialty program but provides broad and general strength training to the individual. You might be thinking that sounds hard, and you won’t be the only one. Many people are afraid of CrossFit because it sounds hard. The makers of the program figured out whether you are an athlete or an elderly person trying to stay in shape, you don’t need a different workout you just need different degrees.

The CrossFit program is scalable to the individual so that each person can come in at any level and they will meet you where you are. The thing that makes many users successful is they can sign up for classes (all over the country) and become part of a group who are all striving for the same goal. CrossFit uses many everyday movements and no exercises are the same so it never gets boring and you aren’t putting too much stress on your joints. It is a great way to finally reach your fitness goals and make some new friends along the way.

Just because it is scalable to you, it is still a workout routine. You aren’t going to get in shape without work. To ensure that you are ready to take on the program check out CrossFit’s getting started guide. Have you tried CrossFit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

January 30, 2012

Hard Gain Diet: The Other End of the Fitness Spectrum

There are a multitude of diets for people that are looking to get in shape. Many try to find the one that is going to be easiest or will produce results the fastest. A diet is a hard thing to do because a lot of us lack the motivation to do it because it is easier to remain idle. Besides, we aren’t that out of shape anyway right? The hardest diet isn’t probably what you are imagining. Some people actually need to gain weight to get in shape.

For a few people that are genetically "cursed" gaining weight can be nearly impossible. You might think it is as easy as just eating a lot and that may be true, but there is more to it than that. Nutrition is a major part of any diet, but for hard gainers it is even more essential. The Hard Gainers Guide have dedicated themselves to helping those not blessed with the ability to gain mass fast.

As a hard gainer eating is the most important thing you can do. You need to be taking in more calories than you are burning. More importantly however, is what you are eating. If you are serious about gaining weight and getting healthy you must intake the building blocks of muscle: Protein, carbohydrates and fats. For details check out the basic and advanced nutrition guides. The Hard Gainers Guide also provides a complete meal plan to get you on your way to achieving results.

Of course having a good workout plan is also a part of gaining weight and converting food into muscle. Hit the gym with a workout plan or maybe a home gym is right for you. For specific questions visit www.hardgainersguide.com.

February 7, 2012

Tough Mudder: Taking Marathon Fitness to the Next Level

What is the most boring thing in the world? A question subject to opinion, but I think we can all agree that running is boring (good for you, but boring). Worse still is watching someone run. Marathon runners deserve all the respect in the world because it is an accomplishment to be proud of. However the fact remains that it is hard to watch someone run for a couple of hours. Tough Mudder has designed an obstacle course marathon that challenges the entire body and is fun to watch.

Tough Mudder was designed by British Special Forces to test not just how far you can run, but also overall physical strength, mental toughness and camaraderie (imagine that). Teams make their way through a 12-mile obstacle course of walls, fire, ten thousand volts of electricity and of course mud. Obstacles include the Kiss of Mud where the runner crawls through sticky mud underneath barbed wire, the Chernobyl Jacuzzi, a tub filled with 200 bags of ice, and the Funky Monkey which is the most intense set of monkey bars you have ever seen.

You are not let alone if you want to see how tough you really are. There are basic fitness requirements and a complete workout program for Tough Mudder on their website.  If you are ready to break out of the same old routine and challenge your body you can find a Tough Mudder event near you at toughmudder.com

Have you tried it or watched this marathon? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Tough Mudder: Taking Marathon Fitness to the Next Level

What is the most boring thing in the world? A question subject to opinion, but I think we can all agree that running is boring (good for you, but boring). Worse still is watching someone run. Marathon runners deserve all the respect in the world because it is an accomplishment to be proud of. However the fact remains that it is hard to watch someone run for a couple of hours. Tough Mudder has designed an obstacle course marathon that challenges the entire body and is fun to watch.

Tough Mudder was designed by British Special Forces to test not just how far you can run, but also overall physical strength, mental toughness and camaraderie (imagine that). Teams make their way through a 12-mile obstacle course of walls, fire, ten thousand volts of electricity and of course mud. Obstacles include the Kiss of Mud where the runner crawls through sticky mud underneath barbed wire, the Chernobyl Jacuzzi, a tub filled with 200 bags of ice, and the Funky Monkey which is the most intense set of monkey bars you have ever seen.

You are not let alone if you want to see how tough you really are. There are basic fitness requirements and a complete workout program for Tough Mudder on their website.  If you are ready to break out of the same old routine and challenge your body you can find a Tough Mudder event near you at toughmudder.com

Have you tried it or watched this marathon? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

February 13, 2012

Fresh Maine Lobsters from Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company

Lobster is not only delicious and considered a luxury food item, but it also offers health benefits such as Zinc, Phosphorus, Vitamin B12, Copper, and Selenium, is also low in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories.

Lobster (especially from Maine) is so delicious and buttery; it melts in your mouth and you avoid looking at your plate because you never want it to be gone. It is a delicacy that you wish you could experience more and more every time it touches your lips.

Thanks to Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company based in Maine, it is a delicacy you can now experience more regularly. Hancock Lobster Company has a full array of lobster and seafood that will deliver right to your front door so you can enjoy lobster in the comfort of your own home.

Not only can you order Lemon Butter Tails (4 -5oz. tails for $80) but you can also order Live Main Lobsters (4 -1.25lb lobsters for $115) and cook them yourself. Order rich and delicious lobster and seafood that will melt in your mouth for your family dinner or impress your guests at your next party with Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company crab cakes ($47 for 6), crab dip ($56 for 2- 14oz containers), and lobster flatbread ($33) (pictured). Your party will be the talk of the town and everyone will leave craving more or wishing they could go to Maine!

Have you tried Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

February 17, 2012

Winter Fitness Trend: Snow Kayaking

 

A new winter fitness trend has merged. Snowboarding, skiing, and sledding have been a prominent means of exercise and simply just a leisure activity for many years. But have you heard of snow kayaking? As arbitrary as it sounds, snow kayaking has become a great way to keep in shape in our powdery areas. Although a very dangerous activity, the extremities of this sport applies to its level of intensity as a workout as well.

Not much of a daredevil? I know my incentive would be the discovery of an entertaining workout different than those of my daily monotonous gym routines. Depending on the steepness of a slope, the speed and danger may not be as severe as other higher hills. It is very common that snow kayakers, whom are really into this particular activity (the ultra-extreme snow kayaking participants) will wax the bottom of their boats, just as you would wax a surfboard, in an attempt to excel on the ice. It is very common that these individuals will reach close to 40 miles per hour!

As a fun alternative to sledding, snow kayaking allows more control among the individuals in the boat by using the paddles for steering. Yes…there’s more control…but more control doesn’t necessarily mean less dangerous. In fact, since this sport is considered to be quite the extreme of sports, it is not permitted by many ski resorts.

Have you been snow kayaking? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

February 21, 2012

Burn Fat and Increase Your Energy with Fitness Craze Zumba

Working out can always be a drag.  You dread waking up in the morning because you know you should work out at some point in the day, but you can think of a million other things you have to do or should do. Maybe it's time to switch up your fitness routine and get in on the new fitness craze and start having fun while you’re working out with Zumba. It is taking over the fitness world!

Zumba began in 1986 in Colombia when aerobics instructor Alberto “Beto” Perez forgot to bring his music to his class and decided to use the Latin Salsa and Merengue music tapes from his car as a substitute. It caught on quickly in Colombia so Beto and two friends moved to the United States in 2001 and launched a line of Zumba home videos in 2002. It has since taken off and classes are now offered all over the country in gyms and private Zumba studios.

Zumba offers great benefits for your mind and body.  Zumba engages you in a full-body workout, it can improve your coordination, and it provides resistance training, as there are fast and slow intervals throughout the workout. Not to mention, you can burn 500 calories or more in an hour!

With the fast paced and upbeat tempo you will never get bored; and don’t fret if you are not a professional dancer because the moves are easy to pick up and you will be a pro in no time. Most Zumba studios also offer beginners classes where the moves are slowed down a bit and more repetitive.

Find a Zumba studio in your area or check with your gym and inquire if they offer Zumba group exercise classes. Classes at private studios can range anywhere from $10 to $20 per class and most Zumba studios offer monthly passes or class packages.

Interested in giving Zumba a shot? Check out these Zumba studios and work with the best instructors:

Misty Clark of M Dance & Fitness in New York City: Misty has great taste in music, is very knowledgeable, and her classes are easy to catch onto as she breaks down the steps. She does her best to accommodate her students, as her classes fill up quickly. So get there early!

Sandy Campanella of SC Fitness in Los Angeles: Sandy is energetic and encouraging, and dedicated to fitness. She is also very friendly and gets to know all of her students and their names.

Lisa Simply of Fit Astoria in New York City (Astoria): Lisa’s classes are a hardcode dance workout and will definitely get you moving and sweating. You will leave feeling pounds lighter.

Have you given Zumba a try? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

A Healthier Lifestyle with the Paleo Diet

There are plenty of options if you are looking for the perfect diet. Many of us might have even tried a few of them and not found the results we were looking for. There is a new place to look with researchers and fitness gurus searching in the unlikeliest of places: hunter-gatherer ancestors. It might seem odd at first, but the Paleo Diet is quickly becoming a popular diet option for those who are trying to get healthy and it has the research to back it up.

It has been difficult to define exactly what the Paleo Diet is because it is always changing with time as more research is being done. However, there are a few ideas that stay the same. The idea of the Paleo Diet is based off the diet of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. They were free of many of the diseases that plague us today including obesity, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. For a quick understanding all you need to know is what was available for these ancient people to eat. The answer: Meat, fish, fowl, vegetables, fruits, tubers and nuts. That’s basically all you need to know. If you question whether you should eat something just think if it falls in that list and if it doesn’t then you don’t eat it. Along with what you eat other things to consider are adequate sleep, stress, vitamin D levels and physical activity.

If the Paleo Diet is something you are now considering you can find a complete history, research and resources at thepaleodiet.com. A free quick-start guide offered by Robb Wolf is available on his blog. It includes start guide, shopping list, food matrix and downloadable book to get you started toward a healthier life.

February 27, 2012

Scandinavian Food Trend in NYC with Aquavit, Fika and Smorgas Chef

A specific trend that emerged in 2011 but is heading full force into 2012, is Scandinavian cuisine. Why you may ask? It may just be a brief fascination with the Scandinavian culture but it is possibly the sheer nature of the Scandinavian diet. This diet includes small portions, and fresh, natural foods, which is evolving to be the goal foundation of many American diets. Regardless of the reason, more and more people are taking notice of these cultural treasures all throughout New York City. If you have not yet tried the tasty treats check out one of these Scandinavian spots!

Aquavit 

Aquavit is located in Midtown on 55th Street between Madison and Park Avenues. It features premium Nordic cuisine in an atmosphere that is sophisticated, and classy; perfect for an exotic dinner with your friends. If you are not dining in the any of their private dining rooms, you can have a relaxed night out in the lounge which features a full bar and signature aquavit beverages such as the Aquavit Negroni. As for the dinner dining options, four and seven course meals are available that will cost approximately $89 and $115 per person respectively.

Smorgas Chef

Although this restaurant serves Scandinavian food, it knows the on-the-go lifestyle of the typical New Yorker. Smorgas Chef describes itself as a place casual enough for an impromptu delicious meal, yet sophisticated enough for a planned romantic date night. It has three locations throughout the city, in West Village, Wall Street, and at the Scandinavia House Cultural Center in Midtown. All Smorgas Chef entrees range from $16-$30 with a flat rate of $12 for all cocktails. If you happen to live near any of the Smorgas Chef locations, you can even take advantage of their delivery services on those lazy nights or weekends. If you try all three locations and still end up begging for more Nordic cuisine, check out the Chef’s new French-Scandinavian Creperie called Crepes Du Nord in the Financial District!

Fika

A prominent aspect of Scandinavian culture is the midday break for tea and coffee. If you are anything like me, and thrive off of my daily dose of caffeine, you may want to include Fika into your daily routine. Located in Central Park South, the Flatiron District, and the Financial District. Here you can truly indulge in the Swedish way of life by taking a coffee break to enjoy Fika’s delicious gourmet. Once you have had the coffee, it would be a dishonor to turn down their “choklads” to kick start your day. Additionally, their lunch and breakfast menus include delectable Swedish flavors to compliment your coffee and chocolates.

What are you favorite Scandinavian Spots in NYC? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

February 28, 2012

Fitness Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Workout

 

Seeing and feeling results from a great workout is the best feeling, right? However, there are simple tips you can add to your workout each time to improve it just a little bit more. The days of an hour yoga class here and a cardio workout on the treadmill are long gone. Add these tips to your workout and see and feel more results.

1. Metabolic finishers. A metabolic finisher is an intense exercise performed at the end of your workout. By completing a series of metabolic finishers at the end of your workout you give your heart rate one final boost while burning more calories.

2. Emphasize your breathing. Get the most of your strength training by breathing out when exerting and breathing in on the release. Also, take full and complete breaths when doing cardiovascular exercises – this will allow your body to take in as much oxygen as possible to improve your workout. Trying to keep your breathing steady and consistent will allow you to get the full amount of energy from your body.

3. Use a heart rate monitor. Do you want to know if you are really working hard? A heart-rate monitor will tell you all you need to know. Learn to use a heart rate monitor and you will be getting the best workouts each and every time. Nike just released the Nike+ Fuelband that will allow you to track and target your heart rate all day long.

4. Drink your protein. There are other ways to get protein than through chicken, fish, eggs, yogurt, and tofu, such as protein shakes. Protein shakes before your workout increase the flow of amino acids to your muscles and a shake after your workout will stimulate muscle growth.

How do you give your workout an extra boost? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

 

Fitness Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Workout

 

Seeing and feeling results from a great workout is the best feeling, right? However, there are simple tips you can add to your workout each time to improve it just a little bit more. The days of an hour yoga class here and a cardio workout on the treadmill are long gone. Add these tips to your workout and see and feel more results.

1. Metabolic finishers. A metabolic finisher is an intense exercise performed at the end of your workout. By completing a series of metabolic finishers at the end of your workout you give your heart rate one final boost while burning more calories.

2. Emphasize your breathing. Get the most of your strength training by breathing out when exerting and breathing in on the release. Also, take full and complete breaths when doing cardiovascular exercises – this will allow your body to take in as much oxygen as possible to improve your workout. Trying to keep your breathing steady and consistent will allow you to get the full amount of energy from your body.

3. Use a heart rate monitor. Do you want to know if you are really working hard? A heart-rate monitor will tell you all you need to know. Learn to use a heart rate monitor and you will be getting the best workouts each and every time. Nike just released the Nike+ Fuelband that will allow you to track and target your heart rate all day long.

4. Drink your protein. There are other ways to get protein than through chicken, fish, eggs, yogurt, and tofu, such as protein shakes. Protein shakes before your workout increase the flow of amino acids to your muscles and a shake after your workout will stimulate muscle growth.

How do you give your workout an extra boost? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

 

March 6, 2012

Fitness Tips for Marathon Training

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Health and fitness is all about goals. You know when you have a big trip planned and you spend time anticipating your trip by shopping, working out, or planning? Think of your trip as a goal, something you are working towards. Whether it be a weight loss goal, calorie intake goal, or hours clocked at the gym goal, remember that it is important to set goals to keep yourself working towards something. Goals have to be attainable and realistic – start with short-term goals and then once you’ve built up the stamina strive towards more long-term goals.

I like to think of running in terms of goals. While I am running I set goals for myself along the way such as “sprint to that tree” or “just make it to that blue truck.” But more than that, I like to set goals for myself in terms of how far I run, distance wise. As we begin to encounter beautiful weather what better way to enjoy it then by setting running goals. You can start with a mile, then work your way to a 5k, 10k, half-marathon and eventually up to a full marathon.

As you begin to set and meet your running goal it is important to keep your body safe from injuries – or your goals could be dead in their tracks. Here are a few tips while you’re attaining your running goals:

1. Stretch. No matter how long or short your run is, to prevent injuries it in imperative that you stretch correctly every single time you run.

2. Rest. Listen to your body and learn to tell the difference between being tired from a long day and being tired from too many days of exercise in a row. It is important to take rest days as to not strain your muscles and mind.

3. Set short-term goals while striving for your long term ones. If your long term goal is to run a marathon run shorter races in between to get in the race mindset and see what your race times are.

4. Train in your race clothes. It is important to feel comfortable in your race clothes so you should train in clothes that you would wear in the race. Your run will not go as smoothly if you’re uncomfortable in your clothes.

5. Cross-train. It is important to incorporate other cross-training and aerobic exercises. Swimming and biking or yoga and pilates can contribute to your overall fitness and prepare you for your race.

What are your fitness goals? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

Fitness Tips for Marathon Training

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Health and fitness is all about goals. You know when you have a big trip planned and you spend time anticipating your trip by shopping, working out, or planning? Think of your trip as a goal, something you are working towards. Whether it be a weight loss goal, calorie intake goal, or hours clocked at the gym goal, remember that it is important to set goals to keep yourself working towards something. Goals have to be attainable and realistic – start with short-term goals and then once you’ve built up the stamina strive towards more long-term goals.

I like to think of running in terms of goals. While I am running I set goals for myself along the way such as “sprint to that tree” or “just make it to that blue truck.” But more than that, I like to set goals for myself in terms of how far I run, distance wise. As we begin to encounter beautiful weather what better way to enjoy it then by setting running goals. You can start with a mile, then work your way to a 5k, 10k, half-marathon and eventually up to a full marathon.

As you begin to set and meet your running goal it is important to keep your body safe from injuries – or your goals could be dead in their tracks. Here are a few tips while you’re attaining your running goals:

1. Stretch. No matter how long or short your run is, to prevent injuries it in imperative that you stretch correctly every single time you run.

2. Rest. Listen to your body and learn to tell the difference between being tired from a long day and being tired from too many days of exercise in a row. It is important to take rest days as to not strain your muscles and mind.

3. Set short-term goals while striving for your long term ones. If your long term goal is to run a marathon run shorter races in between to get in the race mindset and see what your race times are.

4. Train in your race clothes. It is important to feel comfortable in your race clothes so you should train in clothes that you would wear in the race. Your run will not go as smoothly if you’re uncomfortable in your clothes.

5. Cross-train. It is important to incorporate other cross-training and aerobic exercises. Swimming and biking or yoga and pilates can contribute to your overall fitness and prepare you for your race.

What are your fitness goals? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

March 13, 2012

Women's Fitness PR: Skinnygirl Fitness Tips Body by Bethenny

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Best known for her hit reality series, ‘Bethenny Ever After,’ Bethenny Frankel has branded not only a name for herself, but an image.  Prior to expanding on her multifaceted tangents of fitness tycoon, author, reality star, and beverage entrepreneur, Frankel was faintly recognized as a natural food chef.  It is to no surprise Bethenny has provided a few beneficial, yet simple fitness tips we can incorporate into our daily lives…aside from sweating to her very own fitness DVDs, ‘Body By Bethenny’ and 'Skinnygirl Workout.'

1.  Keep it within the realm of reality: Bethenny is a believer in keeping diet and exercise realistic.  Many people set extreme goals for themselves containing strict dieting and rigorous exercise routines. "They are not realistic. They aren’t sustainable, and they lead to binge eating (beating ourselves up emotionally and physically by gorging on food) and erratic workout schedules.”

2. Consistency and companionship: Frankel feels that being consistent with your workouts is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  She also supports the thought of fitness as a friendship. 

3. Exercise and meal mantra: "Food is not your best friend or your enemy. You are not good when you don’t eat nor bad when you do. The same goes for exercise. Always be good to yourself and love yourself. You will get to exactly where you need to be."

You may not be an avid fan of reality TV, but who better to coach and sculpt our bodies than the fantastically fit Bethenny Frankel?

What do you think of Bethenny Frankel's fitness tips?  Tweeet us @PierceMattiePR.

Women's Fitness PR: Skinnygirl Fitness Tips Body by Bethenny

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Best known for her hit reality series, ‘Bethenny Ever After,’ Bethenny Frankel has branded not only a name for herself, but an image.  Prior to expanding on her multifaceted tangents of fitness tycoon, author, reality star, and beverage entrepreneur, Frankel was faintly recognized as a natural food chef.  It is to no surprise Bethenny has provided a few beneficial, yet simple fitness tips we can incorporate into our daily lives…aside from sweating to her very own fitness DVDs, ‘Body By Bethenny’ and 'Skinnygirl Workout.'

1.  Keep it within the realm of reality: Bethenny is a believer in keeping diet and exercise realistic.  Many people set extreme goals for themselves containing strict dieting and rigorous exercise routines. "They are not realistic. They aren’t sustainable, and they lead to binge eating (beating ourselves up emotionally and physically by gorging on food) and erratic workout schedules.”

2. Consistency and companionship: Frankel feels that being consistent with your workouts is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  She also supports the thought of fitness as a friendship. 

3. Exercise and meal mantra: "Food is not your best friend or your enemy. You are not good when you don’t eat nor bad when you do. The same goes for exercise. Always be good to yourself and love yourself. You will get to exactly where you need to be."

You may not be an avid fan of reality TV, but who better to coach and sculpt our bodies than the fantastically fit Bethenny Frankel?

What do you think of Bethenny Frankel's fitness tips?  Tweeet us @PierceMattiePR.

March 19, 2012

Fitness Apps That Help You Stay Fit

Smartphones are everywhere. If you look around you can probably see a smartphone or something smartphone related. Not only can you seem them, but they have taken over everything (well almost) entertainment, restaurants, and stores. They are everywhere. Now they are taking over an area that you may not have suspected: fitness.

How does a smartphone fit into exercise? It seems unlikely at best. However they have an app for that (is there anything they don’t have one for?) You may be cynical at first but there are a few that you might want to check out. They are designed to motivate and keep you healthy. That can’t be a bad thing.

For staying in good shape the Workout Trainer by Skimble may be something do go download. It is essentially a personal trainer/radio in your pocket. Just plug in your headphones and follow along to the 1000 plus exercises programmed in the app. While you are working out keep track of your exercises as well as you diet with DailyBurn. With this nutrition calculator you can easily track and maintain a healthy diet. Maybe you are feeling a little off or under the weather? Although it is no replacement for a doctor the iTriage app helps you understand your symptoms and even tells you where to go to get help.

Is there a fitness app you can't live without? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

March 27, 2012

Nutrition Communications -- Natural Health & Beauty Superfruit: Avocado

Although avocados are most likely famous for their annual appearance in Super Bowl party guacamole, most people are not aware of the amazing health and beauty benefits this fruit beholds. While avocados used to have a poor reputation due to its 85% fat content, researchers have recently dispelled myths about this fruit. Currently, avocados are known as a super fruit that excels in nutrition, heart health, skin, hair, and being a tasty complement to ordinary dishes.

Avocados are perfect for anyone who is engaging in an active lifestyle. With the spring and summer months, you now have more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and exercise outside. To complement your fitness routine, a simple avocado snack can provide you with key nutrients to fuel your body. Avocados have over 13 vitamins including vitamins A, C, D, E and B vitamins. Additionally, it has good fats, which are essential in providing energy to the body for the ultimate workout.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to fully add avocados into your diet, they are also known to provide tremendous natural beauty remedies. It can enhance and remedy anything from puffy eyes, dry skin, and hair. This fruit also can create a low maintenance mask to rejuvenate your skin. The only ingredient is the avocado, which you mash and spread evenly on your face, then let sit for 15 minutes. This is perfect if you have dry or sensitive skin that may react negatively to harsh chemicals.

Of course, they are a tasty, nutritious addition to some of your simple salads, soups, and entrée’s. For new recipes to incorporate this nutritious super fruit into your diet, visit Avocado.org  to experiment with some delicious treats.

How do you use this super fruit as a health benefit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Nutrition Communications -- Natural Health & Beauty Superfruit: Avocado

Although avocados are most likely famous for their annual appearance in Super Bowl party guacamole, most people are not aware of the amazing health and beauty benefits this fruit beholds. While avocados used to have a poor reputation due to its 85% fat content, researchers have recently dispelled myths about this fruit. Currently, avocados are known as a super fruit that excels in nutrition, heart health, skin, hair, and being a tasty complement to ordinary dishes.

Avocados are perfect for anyone who is engaging in an active lifestyle. With the spring and summer months, you now have more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and exercise outside. To complement your fitness routine, a simple avocado snack can provide you with key nutrients to fuel your body. Avocados have over 13 vitamins including vitamins A, C, D, E and B vitamins. Additionally, it has good fats, which are essential in providing energy to the body for the ultimate workout.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to fully add avocados into your diet, they are also known to provide tremendous natural beauty remedies. It can enhance and remedy anything from puffy eyes, dry skin, and hair. This fruit also can create a low maintenance mask to rejuvenate your skin. The only ingredient is the avocado, which you mash and spread evenly on your face, then let sit for 15 minutes. This is perfect if you have dry or sensitive skin that may react negatively to harsh chemicals.

Of course, they are a tasty, nutritious addition to some of your simple salads, soups, and entrée’s. For new recipes to incorporate this nutritious super fruit into your diet, visit Avocado.org  to experiment with some delicious treats.

How do you use this super fruit as a health benefit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

April 10, 2012

Fresh Gourmet Foods & Fine Gifts from Petrossian

Petrossian began as a retailer in the 1920s by two Armenian brothers. They began their business by introducing the delicacy of fine caviar to the Parisians. After the French demonstrated an appreciation for the finer foods in life, Petrossian expanded to selling other products such as fine chocolates, smoked salmon, cheeses, jams, wine and baked goods. Prices range anywhere from $11 pates to $300 goose fois gras gastronome, perfect for a summertime tea with the girls or a poker game with old chums. 

Petrossian has retailer locations in New York City , West Hollywood and online. For the past eighty years, Petrossian has maintained an honorable reputation of being a top importer of caviar from all over world. Quality and excellence are two of the the ideals Petrossian has strived to maintain over the years, with fresh caviar prepared and aged to perfection. 

Whether Petrossian products are purchased as a holiday gift option or personal splurge, you won't be disappointed in the eclectic mix of flavors this company has to offer. The different caviar species are available online with information about color and taste to help the customer find the perfect fit. Drink and storage recommendations are also available to make the caviar enjoyment process one to never forget. 

Visit the Petrossian website for more information about gift baskets, delivery options and more. 

April 17, 2012

For Your Health: Certified Organic Herbs from Gaia Herbs

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Since 1986, Gaia Herbs has shown their commitment to growing organic herbs. Located in the mountains of North Carolina, Gaia Herbs has more than 50 crops growing on 250 acres of soil, producing quality, certified organic herbs that have gone through an extremely thorough laboratory process to develop the best product available on the market. 

Distributed at your local Whole Foods, Gaia Herbs can be found in the vitamin/herb aisle with other natural herbal remedies. Herbal products include supplements for body system support, daily wellness and immune system functioning. Online retailers such as Amazon and Pharmaca also offer their retail competitive pricing if the convenience of online shopping is more up your alley. 

Prices range from $7 to $15 per bottle, offering the consumer various packages for money saving opportunities. 

Visit Gaia Herbs main site for information about career opportunities, frequently asked questions and full product descriptions. With all the harmful toxins we ingest on a daily basis, why not begin a vitamin regime to ward off harmful disease and sickness? Your mother probably harps on you to start taking more vitamins, why not begin a healthier lifestyle today.

Do you use any of Gaia Herbs products? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR. 

April 23, 2012

Vegan and Vegetarian Hot Spots in NYC

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I find that more and more people are looking toward a vegetarian or vegan diet. Whether it is to detoxify the body of impurities or chemicals, or refrain from consuming animal byproducts, it is evident that the vegan movement continues to grow indefinitely. The most difficult task for vegans is to enjoy cuisine at a restaurant that caters to those dietary needs.  Overcome those difficult outings and take a look at a few of these vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City!
          
A popular vegan restaurant in New York is Blossom located in Chelsea. It is a quaint but upscale restaurant that offers a wide array of vegan options. The restaurant is open for dinner every night and open for brunch on the weekends. Some of the featured items on the menu include Seitan Scaloppini, Lemongrass Crusted Tofu, and Lasagna. For dinner, the entrées typically range from $18 - $22. There are two additional Café Blossom locations on the Upper West Side and West Village for a more casual setting.

Candle 79 is another vegan hotspot located on the Upper East Side. They pride themselves on serving organic cuisine by promoting sustainable practices in their business operations. An interesting aspect of the restaurant is that along with organic meal specials, are their “Eco Cocktails”. Some of these include Strawberry Fields, Rasa and Rum, and Tropical Sage which all feature organic ingredients. Candle 79 is open for brunch, lunch and dinner at specific times throughout the week.

Dirt Candy is creatively named for its commitment to the vegetables that grow and are natural pieces of the earth. The restaurant is located in East Village and opened in October 2008 by Chef Amanda Cohen. She is a graduate of Natural Gourmet’s Chef Training Program and has a history of working with vegetarian and organic restaurants. She opened Dirt Candy to pursue her love for the industry. Dirt Candy features creative and intricate dishes with simple names such as “Cucumber” and “Corn”. These entrées are between $17-$19 and can easily be made vegan dishes upon request.

Have you been to any of the vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Vegan and Vegetarian Hot Spots in NYC

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I find that more and more people are looking toward a vegetarian or vegan diet. Whether it is to detoxify the body of impurities or chemicals, or refrain from consuming animal byproducts, it is evident that the vegan movement continues to grow indefinitely. The most difficult task for vegans is to enjoy cuisine at a restaurant that caters to those dietary needs.  Overcome those difficult outings and take a look at a few of these vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City!
          
A popular vegan restaurant in New York is Blossom located in Chelsea. It is a quaint but upscale restaurant that offers a wide array of vegan options. The restaurant is open for dinner every night and open for brunch on the weekends. Some of the featured items on the menu include Seitan Scaloppini, Lemongrass Crusted Tofu, and Lasagna. For dinner, the entrées typically range from $18 - $22. There are two additional Café Blossom locations on the Upper West Side and West Village for a more casual setting.

Candle 79 is another vegan hotspot located on the Upper East Side. They pride themselves on serving organic cuisine by promoting sustainable practices in their business operations. An interesting aspect of the restaurant is that along with organic meal specials, are their “Eco Cocktails”. Some of these include Strawberry Fields, Rasa and Rum, and Tropical Sage which all feature organic ingredients. Candle 79 is open for brunch, lunch and dinner at specific times throughout the week.

Dirt Candy is creatively named for its commitment to the vegetables that grow and are natural pieces of the earth. The restaurant is located in East Village and opened in October 2008 by Chef Amanda Cohen. She is a graduate of Natural Gourmet’s Chef Training Program and has a history of working with vegetarian and organic restaurants. She opened Dirt Candy to pursue her love for the industry. Dirt Candy features creative and intricate dishes with simple names such as “Cucumber” and “Corn”. These entrées are between $17-$19 and can easily be made vegan dishes upon request.

Have you been to any of the vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

April 26, 2012

Luxury Fitness: California Fitness Camp

 

Fitness resorts are all the rage as fitness goers long for a mix of fun in their workout program with long lasting results. These camps or live-in type fitness programs offers something for everyone that help you with a lifestyle change rather than simply focusing on a diet or just exercise. California Fitness Camp has been getting media attention, especially because it's not just a 1 week stay as if being on vacation, some residents are there for months to transform their eating habits and workout regimen.

California Fitness Camp starts off with a full body analysis, so that you know what your baseline is in order to watch the transformation as you work through your time there. And as everyone's needs are different, they customize a fitness plan that caters to you. Food is prepared by a 5-star chef, but in order to make sure that healthy meal preparation is something you can carry out once you are back in your own home, they also offer education and cooking classes on healthy eating habits, recipes and even how to manage food on the go. And of course, your mental attitude plays a big role in your weight loss success, so spa treatments are incorporated into your stay.

California Fitness Camp is located at the 5-star La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California. The grounds are gorgeous and the luxury accomodations would motivate anyone to want to book their stay here to get in shape.

Would you consider a live-in resort such as California Fitness Camp for your exercise and weight loss needs? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

Luxury Fitness: California Fitness Camp

 

Fitness resorts are all the rage as fitness goers long for a mix of fun in their workout program with long lasting results. These camps or live-in type fitness programs offers something for everyone that help you with a lifestyle change rather than simply focusing on a diet or just exercise. California Fitness Camp has been getting media attention, especially because it's not just a 1 week stay as if being on vacation, some residents are there for months to transform their eating habits and workout regimen.

California Fitness Camp starts off with a full body analysis, so that you know what your baseline is in order to watch the transformation as you work through your time there. And as everyone's needs are different, they customize a fitness plan that caters to you. Food is prepared by a 5-star chef, but in order to make sure that healthy meal preparation is something you can carry out once you are back in your own home, they also offer education and cooking classes on healthy eating habits, recipes and even how to manage food on the go. And of course, your mental attitude plays a big role in your weight loss success, so spa treatments are incorporated into your stay.

California Fitness Camp is located at the 5-star La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California. The grounds are gorgeous and the luxury accomodations would motivate anyone to want to book their stay here to get in shape.

Would you consider a live-in resort such as California Fitness Camp for your exercise and weight loss needs? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

April 30, 2012

5 Summer Fitness Sports to Get You in Shape

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The weather is beautiful and I want to be outside.  The mild winter we had didn’t keep me indoors for too long, but as soon as the sun starts to shine I begin to go a bit stir crazy no matter how active I have been.  Being locked up inside whether in an office or at home is a tease and makes me crave the weekends and my summer vacations. 

Beautiful weather activities usually include a nice bike ride, a picnic, or a sunset run but don’t you ever want to do something different to make that weekend just a little bit more adventurous? I don’t know about you, but waking up the next day with sore muscles from a fun activity seems so much more worth it than waking up sore from an hour spent at the gym. So here are a few fun and new ways to get outdoors and enjoy the weather:

1. Kayaking. This is definitely a great way to enjoy being outdoors and get a good workout. A lot of lakes (and even rivers but if you are new to this sport I would suggest the calmer waters of a lake) have classes to teach you how to kayak and even have equipment for you to rent.  Be sure to check out L.L.Bean for all of your kayaking essentials.

2. Jet Skiing. I personally love jet skiing and do it as often as I can. It is a great way to get on the water on a beautiful day and just have a blast. Make sure you wear a lot of sunscreen and don’t forget the life jacket. Check with your closest lake or sporting goods store for jet skiing rentals and equipment. While not necessarily fitness...jet skiing does get your outdoors and active!

3. Golfing. Summer mornings and summer nights are my absolute favorite, so why not get out and play a round of golf as the sun is coming up or setting?  Most golf courses have specials for night golf, which can be a lot of fun as long as the mosquitos have gone to bed for the night. Check out PING for all of your golf needs.

4. Hiking. This is the ultimate outdoor adventure for a beautiful day.  Pick a day that isn’t going to be unbearably hot and find a hike with a beautiful view or a lake to jump into to make it that much more enjoyable. Check out Keen Footwear for the best hiking shoes for your adventure. The Keen Voyageur is the best hiking shoe for summer!                                                                 

5. Zip-Lining. Have you ever wondered how your favorite or local ski resorts make any money during the summer? Well they have these huge mountains with beautiful scenery that are perfect for zip-lining. I went for my first time last summer and fell in love. Make a weekend out of it and get some outdoor time in while experiencing a beautiful view as you’re gliding down a mountain.

Regardless of how you choose to spend your beautiful days, if you are outdoors don’t forget the sunscreen!

How are you going to spend your free time this summer to squeeze in some outdoor fitness? Let us know @PierceMattiePR

May 14, 2012

Marketing Nutrition to Anti-Age

Beauty from within no longer just means you have a great personality... Nutrition is becoming just as popular in the beauty industry as are the products meant to combat anti-aging. Between beauty supplements, Vita-Mix smoothie mania and recipes targeting various skin issues (inflammation, restoring tissue, healing, etc.), if you have a product with any nutritional value that benefits those looking for anti-aging products, now is the time to promote it.

From superfruits to veggies, the key to all anti-aging products are the antioxidant benefits they provide the skin. Kale is one such veggie that promotes healthier skin between cooking it up, eating it in a salad or mixing it into your smoothie. As are any food that contains Vitamin C (restores tissue and vibrancy to skin), Vitamin A (for oral health--healthy gums = a healthy smile), Vitamin E for better complexion, etc. 

Taking cue from beautiful women abroad in France and Scandinavia, their skin is naturally beautiful because healthy eating is part of their culture. If you need some inspiration to find the right fruits and veggies to target the right nutritional track for your skin based on your age, do a search on Pinterest. Such a great resource of recipes and ideas to get you started.

Which foods are you incorporating into your diet for better skin health? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

May 21, 2012

Green Gym Marketing & PR

People go to the gym for a variety of reasons, but one thing they all have in common is that they put a lot of effort and energy into burning calories and building muscle. Many of those people, if given the opportunity, would go to a gym that kept the environment in mind when operating their facility; since, as we all know, gyms use up a lot of electricity and space.

Two green gyms come to mind that are doing it right and people are noticing. The Green Microgym in Portland, Oregon and Green Fitness Studio in Brooklyn, New York. Both operate their gyms in different ways, but with one common goal: a greener gym that takes less from the environment.

The Green Microgym uses green fitness equipment from PlugOut (which also sells equipment for home use as well.) PlugOut harnesses the energy created from people working out and subsidizes the electricity needs of the gym. It's a great way to focus on the energy you are creating rather than the calories you are burning and still get the same great physical results in the end. The Green Microgym also uses solar panels, recycled toilet paper and renewable source flooring. 

Green Fitness Studio is impressive with it's long list of ways they are green. From bamboo floors to to recycled rubber to self powered gym equipment to a living rooftop, Green Fitness Studio has really taken it the extra mile.  

What ways are your fitness center going green? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR. 

About Fitness & Health

This page contains an archive of all entries posted to Fitness PR Division in the Fitness & Health category. They are listed from oldest to newest.

Exercise Programs is the previous category.

Fitness Apparel is the next category.

Many more can be found on the main index page or by looking through the archives.

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