My experience with the Ultimate Reset

I had never done a cleanse before, mainly cause I never wanted to give up my intense workouts.  Since becoming a Certified Health Coach, it would be hard for me to make recommendations for my clients do a detox, so the best way to help them get through it is if I did too.

The thought of not being able to keep up with running any chance I had or doing plyometric, hardcore moves was just something I wasn't willing to give up for 21 days.  Then finally, I decided to join a large group of other challengers who were also looking to detox.

The prep was a bit intense, going food shopping for very specific items was like being on a wild goose hunt.  And, making everything ahead of time was a job in and of itself.  I had pulled out my rice cooker which I never thought I'd ever use again.

Already going into this cleanse a vegeterian, I felt this gave me an advantage.  I love everything I ate, the recipes were easy to follow, the hard part in the beginning was eliminating coffee.  The withdrawal from caffiene was horrible.  I felt really frazzled and had to deal with headaches for 3 days and it was suggested that we forgo the Tylenol too.   After I got through that part, the rest of my experience was great.  I learned that I have extraordinary resolve & persevered through Easter, ate miso soup and veggies, shots of alkalinize while everyone was drinking wine and chowing down on some holiday classics like homemade manicotti, bread and pizza di rustica. I was sleeping better, my skin was so clear and overall I felt a huge sense of accomplishment. It definitely wasn't easy. If you've been following my posts on Instagram and Facebook, then you knew how challenging it was to be subjected to overwhelmingly strong smells and sights of Margherita flatbread pizza, and shrimp with squid ink pasta. But I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed EVERY meal I had.

Now I walk away with some awesome recipes, I tried tempeh, jicama, experimented with new spices and seasonings and even rolled my own sushi. While I really missed my intense workout sessions, my cutting board got a serious workout and now has a 6 pack from all the 
cuts over the past 3 weeks.

To see glimpse of what some of my meals were you can visit my Ultimate Reset Pinterest board

Now for the results:  I'm happy to report that I lost a total of 12 pounds and 6 inches in just 21 days. The best part was that I have learned to nourish my body through proper nutrition, tune into conscious eating, and that I really don't need coffee to wake me up. I would definitely recommend this cleanse to anyone who wants to take their health to a new level. You may never know just how good you're supposed to feel. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about gaining energy & eating clean, then message me. A healthy outside starts on the inside.

May Specials

There are 2 special for this month:  P90X3 at $180 and TurboFire for $140 (that is a crazy deal).  Both kits are bundled with a 30 day supply Shakeology.

This 90 day program will get you ripped in 30 minutes a day, using Tony Horton's breakthrough Muscle Acceleration system.   Now you'll always have the time to work out—and you can burn fat and build lean muscle faster than ever.  It comes with 16 workouts plus 1 bonus workout.  Equipment Needed: Dumbbells or resistance bands, and a P90X® Chin-Up Bar or resistance bands with door attachment.

Save $95 with the May promotion compared to buying separately and get a free P90X3 hat!  Hurry Sale ends 5/31/14, limited time only.

http://teambeachbody.com/shop/-/shopping/BCPX3205?referringRepID=28705

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TurboFire® is the intense cardio conditioning program from fitness innovator Chalene Johnson.  This 90 day program will get you lean(er) with exercises that can burn up to 9x more fat and calories than regular cardio, set to smoking-hot music.  There are 12 workouts, plus 3 bonus workouts.  Workout Time: 10–55 minutes

Equipment Needed: Toning band with handles, thigh-firming band, jump mat, weighted gloves, Turbo Tracker Journal (all optional).
Save over $90 with the May promotion compared to buying separately!

Limited time only. 

http://teambeachbody.com/shop/-/shopping/BCPTR180?referringRepID=28705

Don't wait....start NOW

As 2014 approaches, you may be thinking about what you'd like to accomplish when the new year rolls in.  Its a time to introspectively take inventory of where you are and figure out where you'd like to go.  Wondering what the most popular resolutions were for 2013?  My research led me to this list of the top 40:

  1. Read more books
  2. Save more money
  3. Lose weight
  4. Redecorate
  5. Take better photos
  6. Go traveling
  7. Sell old unwanted stuff on eBay
  8. Buy a tablet
  9. Organize photos
10. Do something for charity
11. Spend more time with kids
12. Buy a Sunday paper
13. Less TV time
14. Connect my computer to my TV
15. Leave work on time more often
16. Less time on Facebook
17. Totally revamp my wardrobe
18. Try a new hairstyle
19. Get a six-pack
20. Eat less chocolate
21. Socialize more in real life rather than Facebook
22. Drink less alcohol
23. Buy less coffee from Starbucks/big chains
24. Start my own business
25. Tell someone I have feelings for them
26. Quit smoking
27. Gain a promotion
28. Learn how to use Twitter
29. Run a half or full marathon
30. Call people more than text
31. Cut someone out of my life who isn't good for me
32. Meet online contacts in real life
33. Watch less reality TV
34. Text people less
35. Try to save relationship
36. Try extreme sports
37. Get better at social networking
38. Stop contacting/going back to an ex-partner
39. Have a face-to-face with my boss to find out where I stand
40. Do a bungee jump

What ever you decide, don't wait.  Do it now.  Get a head start and focus on small habits that will make an impact.  Make a dent, don't scratch the surface.  

If you think about it, all 40 have a common denominator -- they relate to your health on some level (nutrition, fitness, mental, spiritual, emotional etc).  Some are directly impacted while others, indirectly. 

We have the same amount of time every day to work on becoming THE best version of ourselves. What's even more exciting is that we get to decide, what, how, when, where and if your WHY is strong enough, it will blow past any excuse that gets in your way.  So, get busy living and stop waiting!  And just so you know, #40 will never be on my list!  What about you?

Do you set mini goals?

Setting big goals can be overwhelming.  Breaking it down into smaller, specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely goals can help you stay focused.

I started thinking about some pretty awesome generic goals that everyone could improve on:

Ten Daily Mini Habit Ideas

1. Compliment one person

2. Think two positive thoughts

3. Meditate for one minute

4. Name three things you’re thankful for

5. Do one push-up

6. Write 50 words

7. Read two pages

8. Do ten jumping jacks

9. Go outside and take 100 steps

10. Drink one glass of water

You can change nearly any area of your life; and at one mini habit at a time, it’s easier than you think.

When you remove the pressure and expectations, you allow yourself to start.

What mini habit(s) will you start today?

Check Point

Today is the last day of the Alpha round.  I have 2 workouts left to complete week 5; Lower Focus and Total Body Circuit.  Tomorrow is STATurday and I'm down 10 lbs since 7/8/13.  I was able to shed 2 inches off my hips, an inch off my waist and 1/2" off each thigh.  Monday, 8/12 starts the Beta round.

If I could do it, so can you!  I am closer to 50 (years young) and can tell you I have never felt more energized, stronger and more confident.  My weapons of choice are Focus T25 and replacing just one meal a day with Shakeology; and interpreting the nutritional guidelines to make it more doable for me and how it fits in my lifestyle.  

I can help you take that first step and guarantee your results under my guidance and give you the support to make your experience successful and results driven.  It's up to you to invest in yourself. What you do now will have an impact on your short and long term future.  If you're ready then contact me maria365@aol.com and put In the subject line. "I'm ready."

Become the BEST version of YOU

If your goal is to lean out, shed weight and improve your health, in my opinion, the key to success is to have a plan, know your numbers (calorie intake vs. how much you burn) and forgive yourself if you mess up.

I rely on two apps to guide me towards my goals:  myfitnesspal (connect with me at www.myfitnesspal.com/maria365) and my Fitbit. 

At the end of the day you can NEVER make a mistake with food.  Everything you do is an experiment.

So rather than saying, "Oh my gosh i really messed up today."  Say, "Wow, that was another food experiment that didn't work."

Through trial and error we will be able to find the foods that work for us, rather than staying on a fixed rigid diet.  Take your blinders off.  Our head will say one thing and our body will say another.  Find what works for you!

How to get the most out of your work out:

1. Eat right. Eat whole foods, Cook at home, and Use cheese as a spice.

2. Change your focus. You should exercise to feel better not just to look better.

3. Don't be afraid to work hard. If it's easy, it's not working.

4. But at the same time, don't be a perfectionist. By being a perfectionist, you will quit the first time you fail at something.

5. Make a plan.

6. Find a buddy. Everything, including pain, is more fun with a friend.

7. Be accountable. Whether you're logging your food and workouts online or reporting to your mom every night (what ever works), find some way to track your progress and hold yourself accountable.

8. Lift weights. Running may burn a lot of calories while you're doing it, but weight lifting helps you burn more calories all day long.

9. Give it time. People need about 30 days to adapt, 30 days to get in the groove, and 30 days to really push yourself and gain strength.

10. One size does not fit all.

I have incorporated these tips and they have become 2nd nature.  It doesn't happen overnight.  But, once you get into the groove, you will become consciously competent.  A healthy lifestyle is critical for successful aging.  Move your body every day!

I just finished my first 5 days with the Fast Track Guide from Focus T25 and replaced one meal with Vanilla Shakeology.  Posting in my challenge group gave me the focus and accountability to reach my goal.  I was able to shed 4 pounds and lose 1 inch off my hips.  These workouts are great because they're very effective and efficient.  25 minutes, 5 days per week.  These workouts are tough, Shaunt T's not foolin around.  To get results, you have to go outside of your comfort zone.  

Countdown to Summer is on!

I don't know anyone who is NOT looking forward to the Summer.  Lazy days, warmer temps, fresh seasonal fruits....BATHING SUITS!  

Maybe you're not quite beach-ready.  Don't worry.  There are less than 30 days till Memorial Day weekend.  Did you know you can accomplish alot in a short amount of time?I am doing a FREE clean eating challenge for 14 days starting May 6th and it's for those who need a jump start to clean eating. Its a private Facebook group with only 5 members. This is for those who are NOT part of my current group and who DO NOT currently have a coach or have done a challenge with me before. Message me I will give you the details. ***3 spots left*** Wednesday 5/1 is the last day today to join.

Get focused, be determined and commit to yourself.

4 weeks ago, I led a small group who consistently posted their nutrition (meal plans were given) and reported their workout of the day.  Rules were given, strict accountability was enforced and they got RESULTS.

I personally lost a whole size and fit back into my favorite jeans!  Just losing 7-8 pounds can make a huge difference to your mental, physical and emotional well being.

Connect with me on myfitnesspal/maria365 and check out my diary.  What made a difference for me was replacing one meal a day with Shakeology.

Message me at maria365@aol.com and put "Summer Challenge" in the subject line.

Remember, if you want something you've never had, you've got to do something you've never done.

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!!!!

Spring ahead

So, Spring is almost here. Summer is coming. If you want to get in shape for the summer -- lets get moving!  Stop with all the "I'll do it tomorrow" excuses.  If what your doing now isn't working, its time to make a plan and commit yourself to it. No matter what, promise yourself to fulfill your commitment to your body. Even if you don't see results the first few days thats ok, because no one does.

Keep it going until you reach your goal. Get your mind into warrior mode and shape your body into the lean mean healthy machine you know it can be. Lets GO!

If you're looking to switch thigns up let me help you find a program/nutrition solution -- something you can stick with.  Best part is that I can hold you be accountable, help you stay motivated and focused on your way to achieving results.

My first challenge is a quick one.  Commit to 5 days of eating clean, working out and drinking water, posting in our private facebook group and you can start Monday and get hot by Saturday!  This particular one starts March 11 and finishes March 16 with measurements and posts.

Next I have a 30 day fitness/nutrition challenge with Les Mills Combat:  Check out this 2 minute video:

Let me help you keep it going until you reach your goal. Get your mind into warrior mode and shape your body into the lean mean healthy machine you know it can be. Lets GO!

To get started with any of these challenges, you must be connected with me so I can coach you.  Start by going to www.maria365.com and click on the JOIN tab, then select FREE membership.  Make sure my Coach ID 28705 is there.

Let me know if you have any questions!  I'm excited to be working with you on reaching your goals.

Are you tracking or slacking?

I always say knowledge is power and consistency is the key to results.  Well, keeping track of your numbers can be extremely helpful in reaching your weight loss goals.  This type of instant feedback can help me make better choices, and influences my decisions to pick up the pace when I need and get more active.

Its been a full month since I've had my Fitbit Zip.  I was looking for a change from my Bodybugg device.  I rarely watch HSN TV and saw The Fitbit Zip was offered at that particular moment on easy pay, and discounted at $49.95.  Like I said, I rarely watch TV, but just happened to have HSN on.  So I figured this was a great opportunity to "test drive" it and if I didn't like it, I could return it.  Fitbit Zip is also sold at Target.com and Amazon.com for $59.95.  Another bonus is that I wanted to get away from the reoccurring fee associated with subscribing to Bodybugg.com.

As I had mentioned, my goal is to monitor my numbers; Fitbit Zip sets the magic number of 10,000 steps which is the default goal for this cute little clip on device.  Did you know that 10,000 steps daily is approximately 5 miles?

And, since this month is National Heart Month, The American Heart Association uses the 10,000 steps metric as a guideline to follow for improving health and decreasing risk of heart disease, the number one killer of men and women in America.

I love how this syncs to myfitnesspal.com app (you can connect with me there, my username is maria365) and tells me how many calories I need to burn in order to meet my weight loss goals. 


Best part is that its very easy to use.  However, for me, the hard part was remembering to clip it back on after changing.  I sometimes even sleep with it.  One day, I did forget to clip it back on and felt totally lost without it. 

Another thing I've noticed is that it depends on what workout I do that will almost guarantee that my goals will be reached.  On that particular day where I did crush my goals, I got a little notification on my iPhone.  I did TurboFire Fire 45EZ from the Turbofire program*.  The music is off the hook and the choreography is so much fun.  I had logged in a little over 5,000 steps in just 45 minutes. 


If you own a fitbit zip and want to connect with me, look me up!

*TurboFire^® is the intense 90-day cardio conditioning program that will help you get leaner with exercises that burn up to 9x more fat and calories than regular cardio.  New challenge groups are forming March 4, 2013.  Message me on my Facebook Like Page if you're interested.

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

What's your reality right now?

Are you staying focused? Or, are you letting the pull of the holidays take your eye off the ball. Remember its you vs. yourself.  Look in the mirror!  What are you trying to accomplish?  We all have health & fitness goals.  Even if you really don't have those goals, subconsciously you must realize not doing ANYTHING regarding your health is still a choice.

I have made a few observations while managing 3 separate accountability groups (ongoing private Facebook group and a 5 day challenge).  What I've noticed is motivation and action must come from within.  Being part of a group definitely helps INFLUENCE your choices.

You are in charge of you!

An interesting thread started this morning in my ongoing group.  Yes we all get into a funk from time to time and with the pressure of the holidays upon us, days can be pretty overwhelming and stressful.  Having the courage to post about your struggles is not easy task, but makes you human and relatable to others.  I too am not perfect and manage to have days where I find obstacles beat even my best intentions.  What I've learned about myself is that consistency is the utmost important behavior you can exercise.  Without that, you cannot take advantage of momentum and make progress.  Its like stopping and starting a car, it takes you that much longer to arrive at your destination.

Remember, take one meal and one workout at a time.  Don't wait till January 1st to start.  Yes the Holidays are in full swing!  Keep yourself accountable by scheduling your workout NOW! Don't leave it for chance or it won't get done.  If you want it bad enough you will find a way to make it happen.

My next 5 day challenge will start January 7th.  Link to my like page and shoot me a private message for more details.  Slots are filling fast.

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.