Better Every Day

Sometimes when you are on automatic pilot and you go through life, you miss the tiny details which can have an impact on the bigger picture.  Sometimes your story line of your plot plot changes.  Reflecting on how I manage to deal with my stuff, I will admit, occasionally through procrastination, stress eating, indecisiveness and giving in to some negative thinking.

Every day life presents certain struggles, like losing your keys, going grocery shopping, again; work, family time, household chores, laundry, laundry, laundry and even working out.

I am all too familiar with meltdowns.  I am raising a daughter with a major disability and when things get too overwhelming and frustrating, its like a tea pot whistling, you know the water is simmering then it comes to a rolling boil, and then it happens.  I realize that life is for a very long time.  And even though I'm a little more than at the halfway point of my story, I am still determined to have many awesome, fulfilling and exciting years ahead.  That is why I am a true believer in being a change agent to help others realize their true potential through inspiring, motivating and helping others craft a healthy foundation.  Once your "infrastructure" is laid, you can begin to build upon.  When you feel your structure getting weak, you then have a choice.  You can succumb to it, or you can throw in the towel and give up.  Its easier right?

But, if you're like me, then you will agree its important to stay focused and positive, forgive yourself, and find determination to push forward.  Each day is a chance to become the best version of yourself!

It is your mindset and the very thing you BELIEVE that dictates your actions.  Getting your mind right is the first order of business. Take out a piece of paper and start writing out your goals.  What do you want for this year?  Getting back to basics and focusing on little details like exercising, portion control, making healthy food choices, fitting in at least 30 minutes of movement, getting to sleep earlier are all ways to promote a healthy lifestyle.  When you think healthy, you eat healthy and when you eat healthy, you think healthy.  It has a domino effect.

No matter what you do, no matter how many times you mess up and think to yourself, "there's no point to carry on" no matter how many people tell you that you can't do it -- keep going.  Don't quit.  Don't quit because a month from now you will be that much closer to your goal than you were now.  Yesterday you said tomorrow, so make today and every day count.

I'd love to hear your feedback.  Do you agree?  How do you get through your ups & downs?  If you want an extra layer of support, I'd love to add you to my daily fitness & nutrition accountability group https://www.facebook.com/groups/147417735425442/

P90 This is the workout you can do #itsyourturn

Calling all individuals who are WANTING to get healthier, fitter & happier this fall but don't know where to begin! Beachbody is about to release a NEW program called P90 that will be released this Fall. Have you ever seen P90X? Ever attempted to do it and failed miserably? Believe me, I've been there. And guess what?! I am beyond THRILLED that Beachbody has come out with something that is a stepping stone to P90X, P90x2 & P90X3. This new program is called P90 and will be just the thing you need in order to see results this Fall. Deciding to make some changes in your life is a big deal, and so often we jump in with both feet first, in to a program that is way too advanced for us and then end up quitting a few days in. This time is different. This time you will have a program that will take it slow with you. Every day you will become stronger & fitter but with the right pace. 

FINALLY! Our prayers have been answered! Tony Horton heard those prayers and saw the need for a program that will help individuals start at a slower pace so that they can advance to a faster, more extreme program in just 90 days. We want to be in the best shape of our lives, but we need to start at the beginning and build core strength, stability and have correct form so that we don't get injured and end up back at the start again! It's about creating a safe and effective starting point for people to introduce fitness into their lives. Its also a great way to teach individuals that working out and strength training doesn't have to be about killing yourself in your work outs. You can get awesome results by just mastering the right form.

So who is this program for?
This program is for anyone who doesn't want to do hardcore work outs but wants to lose weight by just learning some basics cardio and toning moves. Maybe you've lost some muscle over the years and haven't given yourself that ME time you need to gain it back. Maybe you're someone who just wants to feel healthy & happy again.

So what is this program all about?
P90 has simple cardio, strength training and flexibility work outs for 25 minutes per day for 90 days. It also comes with a simple nutrition guide that will help you get on track with your eating and focusing on the right foods to fuel your body properly for those work outs and results. So when will it be available? Expected release date is September 23rd, 2014 through a Team Beachbody coach, like me, if you're not already working with a coach! When we get closer to the date we will receive more information. Make sure you contact me or let me know if you're interested in this program.

VIP Red Rope Exclusive

Because I know so many of you are going to want to get this right away, I have decided to host a Exclusive "first look" group starting October 6th for those of you who want to try it out. I will be running this group with a group of my amazing coaches so that you get all the support and attention you need to make sure you get the best results possible. How do you apply? Click this link in order to apply for this group. I can only help those of you who are not working with a Beachbody Coach. If you have a coach you're working with, make sure you reach out to them about the P90 launch! :)

• To apply, click on the form and you will hear back from me within 24 hours after I have reviewed your application: http://bit.ly/P90withMaria

The transformations are amazing

Elle lost 25lbs, 23 inches overall, and 25% body fat in just 90 days.

 

Nathan lost 26 lbs. and got shredded.  P90 isn't a hardcore workout, but the results, well, they speak for themselves! 

In 90 days, Jennifer lost 9 lbs, 21% of her body fat and 12.75 inches…and feels absolutely incredible.  She said this program has been one big step for fitness, and one GIANT LEAP to feeling like she can conquer ANYTHING.

 

Have you fallen off the wellness wagon?

Are you in a funk?  Missing workouts, over-eating, stress snacking, not sleeping enough?  It can all have a toll on your health and well being.  Take a moment to stop and reflect on what's new and good.

Sometimes we're in the swing of things and then something shifts (changing schedules, new routines) and we seek comfort of old habits.  Don't beat yourself up, just acknowledge and move on.  Focus on right now.  Every setback is an opportunity to learn!

Wouldn't it be great to shift the focus on yourself for 2014?  I am offering free health consultations. Phone or in-person sessions are available.  Please visit my fb.com/mariapaulercio page and message me with your e-mail and I will contact you.

Please stop by and visit my new site at:  http://maria-paulercio.healthcoach.integrativenutrition.com/

T25/BodyBeast Hybrid

30 Days of Beast/T25 - This hybrid comes out to 6 weeks

Week 1

T25 Core Cardio

BB Build Chest/Tri

T25 Speed 2.0

BB Bulk Legs

T25 Ript Circuit

Week 2

BB Build Back/Bi's

T25 Dynamic Core

BB Cardio/Abs

T25 Upper Focus

BB Bulk Arms

Week 3

T25 Core Cardio

BB Bulk Chest

T25 Dynamic Core

BB Total Body

T25 Ript Circuit

Week 4

BB Bulk Back

T25 Speed 2.0 

BB Cardio Abs

T25 Upper Focus

BB Tempo Chest/Tri

Week 5

T25 Ript Circuit

BB Bulk Legs

T25 Dynamic Core

BB Total Body

T25 Speed 2.0

Week 6

BB Cardio/Abs

T25 Core Cardio

BB Tempo Back/Bi's

T25 Upper Focus

BB Cardio Abs

September 2013 Specials

Shaun T Dance Challenge Pack

Forget Miley Cyrus, learn how to

TWERK the right way! 

1. Get not one but TWO of Beachbody’s best-selling workouts – Hip Hop Abs and Rockin’ Body 
2. This is the ideal bundle for you if you hate working out because both programs have you dancing off the pounds while having FUN. 
3. This is Beachbody’s best price ever for the Shaun T Dance Challenge Pack. 
4. Shaun demonstrates every move in every workout so learning the routine is easy. 
5. Shakeology helps you “Tilt, Tuck, & Tighten” during workouts, simplifies your nutrition plan, reduces junk food cravings, and accelerates your fitness results! 

FREE SHIPPING and me as your FREE COACH

click on the banner for more details

Big 5 Goals

Typically on a Sunday night, I start to think about what needs to get done for the week.  I love Mondays and have been inspired to narrow down my focus.

I wanted to share what I'm concentrating on for the week of 4/15/13:

1) Wrap up Mod 4 w/Test to get 100%, start Mod 5 (Integrative Nutrition online education)

2) Visit program to assess future placement regarding post-High School transition plan (special needs) for daughter for this coming September.

3) Learn and roll out new lesson PiYo Strength by Sunday 4/21 

4)Turbokick Certification Training 4/20

5) Get 3 Strength Workouts in this week (maybe a little ambitions but I'm shooting for it; 3 cardio sessions with one of them being a run).

These are my top 5 along with other ancillary goals (not mentioned) that must get done in order to keep the flow going.

"Within you is the power to do anything...with confidence and inspiration, you unlock the possibilities."  All you have to do is believe that you can and you're half way there.

Knowing what you want to accomplish and plotting out what you want to achieve can serve as a roadmap.  Let's face it, if you want to get somewhere you have to know how you're going to get there!  By taking forward motions in what ever it is that you are looking to pull off takes planning, determination, self-motivation and a sprinkle of perserverance.  

Last night when I drafted my Big 5, it gave me such clarity that I actually had peace among the chaotic schedule Mondays typically bring.

If you're like me you regularly plug into Social Media like Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.  Its easy to connect with others who offer so much inspiration and motivaiton.  But remember, inspiration is a two way street. So Take heart: "There are people in your life whom you unknowingly inspire simply by being you."  How cool is that?  Very!!!!

6-week slimdown Challenge

Getting and staying fit seems like a difficult task - but all it requires is a simple basic commitment to yourself. I invite you to join me in getting in the best shape of your life.  

Is your goal to fit into a smaller size in jeans?  Maybe get a 6 pack?  Anything is possible if you put your mind to it and stay accountable to yourself. 

For 42 days, I will become your workout buddy and motivational coach. Whether your goal is to lose weight, eat better or simply improve your overall health, I will help you meet your goal. The program runs from Monday, Jan. 7 to Sunday, Feb. 17, 2013. Must register by 1/2/13. 

I am holding a small, exclusive group of people who are committed to getting healthy by participating in similar workouts for the next 45 days.

People helping and motivating each other achieve their health and fitness goals by sharing tips, accountability, and results.
 

You will get a ton of motivation, inspiration, and comfort in sharing struggles and successes; and, a new level of accountability to achieve your goals. 

Fitness + Nutrition + Support = Success

New Month = New Goals

Precursor to this new month.  The Tri-State area was hit with a major storm, Hurricane Sandy (a.k.a. Frankenstorm).  And while we lost power for 48 hours, I realized how extremely resourceful and dependent we've become as a society on everything.  I was a definite wake up call to put things into perspective and not take things for granted.  I was able to stay on track with my goals of eating healthy (although I didn't have Shakeology for 2 days because I like using the blender; its a texture thing).  I worked out via candle light and lanterns.  My resolve and dedication helped me get to where I am right now. 

Which flows into the start of a new month where yesterday we flipped the calendar and I set new goals for the month.

My continued commitment to my health & fitness goals help me with my ultimate belief of becoming better than the day before.  As you know when you push yourself out of your comfort zone, you face your fears and gain experience to keep moving yourself forward.  If nothing changes then nothing will change.

The hardest part sometimes is starting.  So, what's important to remember is that you must decide what you're willing to do in order to get the results you want.  I could be something as simple as going to sleep a half hour early.

I have a busy month ahead of me and I know it will fly by.  The first 2 weeks will be focused on a deadline on the 15th and then the second half of the month I will start teaching PiYo classes at a local studio.  While I took the certification back in March, I never thought I'd really do much with it.  I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. 

So what are you going to accomplish this month?

Get out of your zone to get into the zone

Today I ventured out of my comfort zone and went out for my first run! I have been wanting to start for a while and then just decided there is no time like the present to just do it. Someone asked me what made me start? Well it's simple, I always felt like I was missing out on something and then when I was running, I realized that I definitely was.

 

"Believe that you can run farther or faster. Believe that you're young enough, old enough, strong enough, and so on to accomplish everything you want to do. Don't let worn-out beliefs stop you from moving beyond yourself." 

 

Since it was my first time, I decided to run in my neighborhood.   I will eventually drive the course I took earlier to get an idea of how far I got.  I'd say it was about 70% run/30% walk.

 

 

At first it was hard but I was determined to experience it. And all I can say is "Wow what a feeling!" To be out on the pavement and notice things like the trees and how beautiful they are is just PRICELESS, and of course, listening to the right music can definitely give you an extra boost to run faster.

 

 

I'm not mom, or my husband's wife or my parent's daughter or any of the other hats that I wear. When I run I am just little ole me!

 

Like my page to keep up on tips, motivation and news about health & fitness.

 

 

 

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What a week!

I am beaming with excitement.  With in just a week so many amazing things finally came to fruition.  It all started last Saturday, September 29th when I met up with my sister at a local gym to take a free Muscle Hustle class.  I loved being in that atmosphere and knew there and then I wanted to be in that environment on a more regular basis.

I happen to love working out at home and pressing play but there's nothing like being in a facility where you get to connect with others who are looking to improve their health and fitness goals.  So back to the class.   I'm all about switching things up and challenging myself out of my comfort zone. 

So after class, I approached the trainer and asked if I could teach a PiYo class.  Most people haven't heard of PiYo unless you're aware of Beachbody and Chalene Johnson.  PiYo is a fusion of pilates and yoga.

PiYo™ is a unique class designed to build strength & gain flexibility. The moves fit perfectly together to form a class filled with intense choreography that’s fun, challenging and will make you sweat. It’s about energy, power, and rhythm. Think sculpted abdominals, increased overall core strength, and greater stability.

So after discussing this with the trainer, he wants me to start teaching the week of November 19th.  This is crazy cool because now I am forcing myself out of my comfort zone and NEED to practice!  I haven't done anything since I became certified the end of March of this year.

Then the next day on Sunday, September 30th, I decided to move forward with a life changing decision to go back to school and become a Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.  That's a story in itself but just know that this has always been a passion of mine to do the following: 

• help others make healthier food and lifestyle choices, and
• to make a positive difference not only on a global scale but within my own community

As you may or may not know, I run my own fitness business as a Beachbody Coach and the very next day on October 1st, I had 3 awesome and inspiring ladies join my team.  If you don't know what a Beachbody Coach does, its very simple.  Coaches help end the trend of obesity.  We provide solutions for others who need help with their health and fitness goals.  For me personally it helps me be accountable to myself.  When I first decided to become a coach, I was strictly in it for the discount.  I love all of the programs that Beachbody was pushing out and I wanted to have everything they were releasing.  Then came Shakeology and that is a no brainer.  I can't say enough about Shakeology.  You may be wondering if you need to be an expert.  No, you don’t need to be a fitness or weight-loss expert to become a Beachbody Coach. You just need to be ready to commit to changing your life and that of others around you!  Its called PASSION!

So with that said, what an amazing week.  I am so blessed to be doing what makes me happy!  Check out my Facebook like page.  I'm currently focusing on a Michi's Ladder Clean Eating Challenge.  You can message me for more details.

What is your WHY?

I had a conversation with someone today who was interested in doing INSANITY and she asked me how I stay accountable.  Over the years I will admit I have struggled with consistency.  Then it became crystal clear.  I wasn't going to get the results I wanted unless I focused on my WHY.

You see, when you have a strong “WHY” then you will stop at NOTHING to reach your goals.  If your why is strong enough, you’ll blow past all the excuses.  In fact, even when you face the most difficult of situations (whatever may be going on in your life) the person with a strong enough WHY will still make it happen!

So I ask you, what’s your WHY?  I’ve written and talked about this before, but I don’t think I could ever explore this topic enough.  If you want to motivate yourself to do something don’t think about all the logical reasons it’s good for you.  That’s not good enough!

If it’s losing weight and getting in shape, and your kids mean everything to you, then take out a photo of your kids and connect your WHY to them!  Now that’s powerful!  Hint:  that's mine!

See this image here below, when I look at this picture, I see the person I continually strive to become.  A fit, healthy woman who can stand up to any challenge.  I'm almost there!

I've been posting my accountability pics on Instagram and my Facebook page.  Follow the active links within this blog to access.

My current 30 day program.  I used this 3 years ago and shed 25 pounds while on Weight Watchers

My Plank Challenge

I don't exactly remember the day I started but I've been planking every day.  My goal is to add at least 10-15 seconds to the previous day.

I have a few of my favorite peeps that are checking in with me for accountability which makes it more interesting.  About a week ago I had gotten to 1:30 and planked on my elbows.  I put out a picture on my page.   One of my friends had texted me and said the girl in the photo's form was a mess.  Yup, it definitely was.  So I wanted to include a visual depicting incorrect vs. correct form.

 

The plank is an isometric core strength exercise that involves maintaining a difficult position for extended periods of time. Done properly, the plank exercise can be extremely taxing. In the top picture her shoulder blades aren't retracted and her hips are dipped. See the difference? The plank can be done anywhere and only takes minutes. Plus it's more effective than sit-ups and crunches because these work only the superficial abdominal muscles.

So now I am up to the 3 minute mark and I'm planking on my elbows just like the girl in the bottom image.  Oh my gosh the last 15 seconds were brutal. Lately, I've been listening to music to help pass the time and zero in on a spot on the floor to use as a focal point.

Today's music choice was "Titanium" by David Guetta and Sia! I love that song! Oh and I also squeezed in a 30 minute HIIT which was off the hook! Sweat city!  I've been logging my workouts in the Supergym and noticed I hit my 950th workout.  Did you know you are eligible to win money each day you log your workout in?  For more details go here:  http://bit.ly/tac9LM

So I love Mondays and I like to gear up on a Sunday night to plan out my workouts and just know what I'm up against so things can run smoothly.

Here's how my week will go down:

Monday, 8/20/12 Chalean Extreme Burn Circuit 3; plank challenge target 3:10
Tuesday, 8/21/12 TurboFire Fire 45EZ; plank challenge target 3:20
Wednesday, 8/22/12 Chalean Extreme Push Circuit 1; plank challenge target 3:30
Thursday, 8/23/12 Chalean Extreme Burn Intervals & Extreme Abs; plank challenge target 3:40
Friday, 8/24/12 Chalean Extreme Lean Circuit 2; plank challenge target 3:50
Saturday, 8/25/12 Chalean Extreme Burn it Off & Recharge; plank challenge target 4:00
Sunday, 8/26/12 REST; plank challenge target 4:05

 

F O C U S

My workouts give me super powers. I can't help but think of these song lyrics, "You shoot me down but I'm a bomb, I am titanium."  I love that song by the way.  Yup, my commitment to working out helps me bullet-proof my mindset.  It helps me be happy, healthy and strong.  Plus I am grateful I can move. 

Last month I was a little lost in a sense that I was getting lax in my efforts to stay on track.  While I was still hitting my workouts, my nutrition was suffering.  I typically do eat clean but I fell back into some old habits.  Accountability is a big thing when you're trying to make changes stick.  It takes constant self talk to focus on the bigger picture.  What do you want? Why do you want it?  And, how will you get it?

I had held off going to Weight Watchers until the end of the month.  Deep down I knew I was over goal.  This was just the jolt I needed to force a change.  And while I was a bit disappointed that I was 3.8 lbs. over the top range of my Lifetime goal, it was just the kick in the butt I needed.

It forced me to get real and make the necessary changes which are critical for the success I want -- journaling, measuring, planning and attending meetings are all behaviors which yield results.

Although stress seems to be on the front burner in my life lately, I won't allow myself to mindlessly eat to numb the pain.  I am stronger than that.  Plus I am working too hard to get the results I expect.

Today I went back to Weight Watchers expecting a loss and I was rewarded at the scale.  My hard work paid off.  I lost  4.4 pounds in a week.  Honestly I have my own system and have come to realize what works for me.  But the one thing I needed was the accountability.

If you need fitness and nutrition accountability to help you along the way, check out my page here:  http://www.facebook.com/mariapaulercio  

Here are some progress pics:

January 2012, mid-June 2012 and end of July 2012

What do you want?

Its that time again for me to purge my thoughts and blog about where I'm at.  I happened to notice a friend's post about focusing on inspirational words that manifest feelings of empowerment.  He said, "To truly inspire change we must inspire ourselves. No single entity or event or its outcome is going to be what really makes you happy or feel better."  That got me thinking about how happiness is an inside job.  Its starts with positive thinking and what is really important to us.  

Lately, I've been struggling with staying on track with my routine.  I have a small private Facebook group with awesome ladies who post their accountability on a daily basis.  Each one of us has been struggling with our own goals but the common theme is that we're not giving up.  Don't get discouraged, its not about living each day perfectly but being consistent in your choices.  

Everyone gets off track from time to time.  The key to success is to plow through excuses and keep focusing on your comeback.  

My comeback will consist of drinking Shakeology every day and starting a 30 day Les Mills PUMP Ultimate Cross Training Hybrid. 

Walking a tight rope

Over the past few years, I have always equated my life's experiences with roller coasters and circuses.  Well the title of my post came to me because lately living with an adolescent daughter with autism is like walking a tight rope every single minute of the day.  You can imagine the balance one needs to be able to pull it off.

Fortunately I have a balancing tool I use.  My fitness and nutrition goals!

I am in my second round of Les Mills PUMP.  This time around I have committed myself to being disciplined with nutrition.  I am eating as CLEAN as possible plus I have been hitting my workouts with extra intensity. 

Carving out time for myself each day has been like putting on my oxygen mask first when the plane loses altitude.  Intuitively as a mom, we tend to put everyone else's needs first before our own.  When I first heard that scenario I was like WHAT?  If you can't help yourself first, you will be of no service to anyone else.

This past week was very rough and while I kept up with my workouts and nutrition, and I'm proud to say I no longer succumb to stress eating.  I was caught up in a viscous cycle of eating to numb my feelings but would never make progress on where I wanted to go.  Fortunately I was able to break the cycle and in turn, re-adjust my mindset. 

What also helped me get through my week was connecting with a friend who has this amazing ability to provide such a unique perspective.  His insight really helped me realize that its not about having a perfect life but its about making the best decisions possible.

He said, "All you can do is give your best.  Never doubt your best effort and never, ever give up."  That got me thinking...this is not something I can change, what I can change is how I choose to deal  and accept it.

I need to be my best so I can give my best to my daughter and rest of my family.  My daughter depends on me cause I'm all she's got.  Each day I focus on being grateful for what I have.  Deep down I know things can always be worse.  If you'd like to check on my progress with fitness then check out my page:  Maria