What Could Ruin Your Relationships?

An excerpt from "Who You Are When No One's Looking" by Bill Hybels:

Most people have no idea how much their physical condition undermines their attempts to love other people. They fail to realize that it takes physical energy to listen, to serve, to confront and to encourage people who need help sorting out life. Not only are physically run-down people short on energy; they also tend to be easily irritated, critical, short-fused, defensive and negative. (Any names coming to mind?) It is hard for them to love others, and it is equally hard for others to love them.

You and I both know the three rules for staying fit: eat right, sleep enough and exercise. Most Americans eat far too much sugar and fat; consequently, many are overweight. It is also why people suffer from sugar highs and lows, and it has a lot to do with the high rate of heart disease. It is impossible to maintain good physical reserves on a junk-food diet.

In addition, some people add insult to injury by being careless about sleep. If you don't wake up reasonably refreshed, you're probably not spending enough time in bed. Or maybe the time you spend there is less than refreshing because the coffee you drank all day or the greasy slice of pizza you ate at midnight is keeping you awake.

But the real kicker is exercise. Here's a good clue: If your only form of physical activity on a typical day involves walking down the hall to the next meeting, you're missing the exercise boat. I know, I know, there's not enough time to exercise. Trust me, either take the time to workout or you'll be spending all of your time cleaing up the relational messes you make because you're always wiped out.


I know when I think of exercise I think in terms of health conditions, maintaining a certain weight, looking my best, etc. but this page really jumped out at me of why so many people might be so darn crabby. They aren't moving enough!

I've seen it happen in my own life. I remember a point last school year when I took about a week off to write papers, study for exams and make sure everything was turned in. That week was HELL! I remember thinking to myself, "Why the heck are you SNAPPING at EVERYBODY!?" Omg I was a bitch.

And I didn't realize I missed working out until I did it. I decided one night that I would wait to write the paper and go do a 45 minute workout dvd, I felt SO much better!

But there are so many people who have never tried to exercise - meaning they don't know what they are missing out on. I've personally seen it, someone's personality will do a 360 once they start working out. The crabbiest person can transform into the one with the most spirit! That person becomes the one attracting people instead of pushing others out with their off-personality.

Don't let something like exercise ruin your relationships with others. You never know who you could be sending the wrong message out to!

You Are What Your Friends Eat: How Social Networks Affect Our Health

By Stephanie S. Saunders

Everyone knows that you are what you eat. But what if you actually are what your friends eat? What if obesity was not hereditary, but contagious? Sure, it's easier to blame your parents for that sort of thing. After all, why wouldn't the size of your hips be the result of bad genes? But a few years ago, two scientists published an extensive study of 12,067 people in the New England Journal of Medicine that seems to prove that we are directly affected by the habits of others.

Nicholas Christakis and James Fowler theorized that weight gain in an individual is associated with weight gain in his or her siblings, spouse, and neighbors. The phenomenon is called a "contagion" and can be described as a kind of social virus that is transmitted by proximity. It seems a person is 57 percent more likely to become obese if they have a friend who becomes obese. If a sibling becomes obese, the other sibling has a 47 percent increased chance of having the same thing happen to them. And a person has a 37 percent chance of serious weight gain if their spouse starts tipping the scales. No one is exactly sure how it occurs, but our social environment seems to infect us, and we in turn, spread it.

Yes, you read it right. It seems weight gain and the flu have a lot in common, except Walgreens® isn't doling out shots to keep you thin. Many public health leaders, including the National Institute of Health, now believe that this growing science of social networks can be used to improve health on a huge scale. By either creating new social networks, like a dieting group, or by influencing the leaders of already-existing health-related groups such as the Team Beachbody® Message Boards, positive health messages will become contagious. But how can we affect those we care about, and not be affected by unhealthy behaviors?

"Be the change you want to see in the world." —Mahatma Gandhi

The first thing we can do is be an example. You're reading this newsletter, so you already have some interest in your health. It's more than likely you're also on a kick-butt exercise and nutrition program that's altering your appearance. You're already creating the change in yourself, and that will, in turn, have an effect on others. If you want to make a real difference, stay on the path. It is quite easy to reach our goals, only to let them slip away over an extended vacation, holiday season, or traumatic event like a breakup. What this says to an outsider is: "If Tom couldn't keep the weight off, how is there any hope for me? Why even bother?" If you want to inspire others, continue to be an inspiration.

"The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches but to reveal to him his own." —Benjamin Disraeli

Who really has time to talk anymore? We have emails, IMs, and text messages that have pretty much replaced verbal communication. We're all running around trying to accomplish things, which will fall behind schedule if we meet someone for coffee. Yet, sometimes just talking to people about their health and encouraging them to change can be the difference between being healthy and having a lifelong struggle with obesity. You've gone from a size 8 to a size 4, or from a beer gut to a six-pack. People around you will most likely ask how the heck you did it. When they do, ask them to grab a nonfat latte and sit down, because you have something to share with them.

"Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher." —Oprah Winfrey

Removing yourself from every situation that has unhealthy people in it is impossible and unnecessary. We're all tied into our friendships, jobs, and families by many threads, most of which we couldn't sever if we wanted to. You know your best friend from junior high would hunt you down if you moved to a small island off the coast of Madagascar. So instead of losing your relationships, make it a point to tip the scales and add a few more. Finding like-minded people—be it at a gym, a cooking class, a yoga studio, a fitness retreat, or a well-known local hiking spot—can open you up to new ideas and new positive influences. As your resolve becomes strengthened by your new friendships, you will be that much more able to assist your more established friendships.

"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." —Buddha

If you truly want to create a change in the health of others, there are thousands of programs out there that need volunteers. From the national organizations designed to raise money for diseases, to the local car wash that supports the high school athletic program, there's always someone who could use your assistance. Or better yet, create your own network of people making a difference, in whatever way you feel driven. Organize that 10k to benefit the YMCA, petition your state school board to increase physical education and remove vending machines full of sugar from your schools, or create a foundation to bring food to famine-stricken parts of the world. Making a big difference in the health of others can begin with one person, and it could be you.

Conclusion

Why we are so susceptible to the influences of others remains a mystery. From the time we are babies, we learn to mimic gestures and language. As adults, we still mimic yawns, laughs, and often aggression, as the mob after a recent NBA playoffs game proved. And now it seems we can mimic weight gain or loss, along a host of other behaviors. Before getting swept up in the crowd, take a moment and decide what you want for your life. You can choose your own destiny, and maybe help shape the lives of others in the process.

References:

Christakis, N. A. and J. H. Fowler,. "The spread of obesity in a large social network over 32 years." New England Journal of Medicine 357 (July 26, 2007): 370-379.
Eric Jaffe, "The 'contagion' of social networks," Los Angeles Times, September 13, 2010, http://articles.latimes.com/2010/sep/13/health/la-he-social-networks-health-20100913
Clive Thompson, "Are Your Friends Making You Fat?" New York Times, September 10, 2009, http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/13/magazine/13contagion-t.html
R. William Doherty, "Emotional Contagion and Social Judgment," Motivation and Emotion 22, No. 3 (1998), 1-2.

Here's the link if you want to see the article!

Balancing School, Work, Family & Owning Your Own Business

I’ve gotten this question many, many times & as more and more students (and people with multiple jobs) join my team (which EXCITES me!!) I want to explain how I balanced being a full-time student, having a part-time job and owning my own online fitness business (Beachbody).

(If you aren’t a student you can still use these guidelines for work or taking care of your kids, etc.)





First thing I did was invest in a DAY PLANNER. I had to have everything in one central spot so I could easily flip through it. This eliminates the PANIC that comes from having things on many pieces of paper.

Then after the first couple days of classes I’d sit down with my syllabi and put everything into the planner:

-Homework
-Test
-Quizzes
-Papers
-Midterms/Final exams

Not only did I put that information on the specific days but I’d include the TIME of each class,”ENG 270 1-2:47 – Paper 1 Due.”

The same idea went for:

-Going to work
-Teaching Turbo Kick
-After school clubs
-Hanging out with friends & family
-Workouts (which one's & when)
-Beachbody

When it came to Beachbody I would write down SPECIFICS too!

-I would plan the TIME OF DAY when I would be working on my business
-I’d also plan what I’d be DOING.

What that means is I would make a list (on a separate sheet of paper) of where I’d spend my time:

-Facebook – what will I be doing? Expanding my network, replying to e-mails, etc.
-2 expos
-Send my weekly email
-Make a YouTube video
-Listen to the team calls (recorded or live)
-Read 15 minutes of personal development books

You get the picture.

Don’t make excuses for not getting your homework done, doing your daily reading or not working on your business. You're only hurting yourself.

I don’t always have a set schedule (other than classes), so the days CHANGE, and that’s okay, just figure it out and PLAN!

The first time I watched "Entourage"

was because I heard SHAKEOLOGY made an appearance!

Yes the delicious shake I talk about 24/7 was just sitting on the kitchen counter during the most recent episode of the HBO show "Entourage"!


Here take a look:



Not only is that Greenberry Shakeology but it's also a Beachbody shaker cup! ;)

Shakeology - It's Kind Of A Big Deal

Yummy Shakeology Recipe

Hey everyone! I'm drinking a Mocha Frap Shakeology at the moment and thought I'd share the recipe. I got this recipe from Healthy Chick AG aka Ashley Grimwade, a fellow Beachbody coach & cousin to the fabulous Chalene Johnson & Jenelle Summers. (Follow her on Twitter by clicking her name!)

Mocha Frap Shakeology

*8 oz ICED coffee (never want to put HEAT in Shakeology)
*6-8oz milk
(I use unsweetend vanilla almond milk- only 40cals)
*1 scoop chocolate Shakeology (140 cals)
*About 1 cup ice cubes- more or less for the consistency you want
*1 packet of Splenda or sweetener

This contains my daily vitamins/minerals, antioxidants, 17 g of protein and 3 g of fiber, all for less then 200 calories! :) And hello I love love love coffee so it's a good mix for you coffee lovers too!

Still don't know what the heck this Shakeology stuff is, that's okay, click here.

What I know about Turbo Fire...

I know I keep updating TURBO FIRE this and TURBO FIRE that. But if you aren't familiar with what's behind all that I figured I should let you know what it is I'm talking about.

What is TURBO FIRE? It's a workout DVD program that has amazing cardio HIIT workouts, the kind of music you blast in your car or around your house when you just want to MOVE, hands down my favorite instructor ever, Chalene Johnson and the best spot in class. This workout dvd is filmed with you standing in class, the camera is a class member! You really feel like you are there!! (Wow now I'm quoting myself from the infomercial? dorky...)

First let's take a look:
http://beachbodycoach.com/esuite/home/caterinapass?bctid=82703972001

The BASE KIT will come with 12 classes on 10 DVDS: Fire classes, HIIT classes, Core/Scuplt/Tone Classes, Stretch classes, instructional dvd, fitness guide, 5 day inferno guide, nutrition guide & much much more.

The DELUXE KIT will come with 5 more classes and 4 more dvds including Abs. You also get a 30 day supply of the recovery formula, bands and a turbo tracker.


You DO NOT need to have done any other kind of TURBO workout before to try this. If you have done a Turbo workout then you already know how fun it is and you'll definitely love the program too!

I'm currently making a big list of everyone I know who is interested in ordering the program when it comes out and if you want to know ASAP then send me your email address so I can add you to that list! Whatever I find, I pass along to YOU!

Exercise & Skin Care- they go hand in hand!

This article came from Yahoo! Shine, click here to see it.

Why Exercise is Good for Your Skin
Working out is fantastic for firming up flabby areas and losing weight. As if you needed another excuse to get your fitness on, it's no secret both your inner and outer health improve when you exercise. Proving that glowing skin not only comes from a bottle, jar or a tube, here are four ways that getting physical can pack amazing results for your skin.

1. Sweating clears out your pores. But let everything stay on your skin and it could have adverse effects. Be sure to wash your face post-workout and shed your workout clothes to avoid chest and back breakouts.

2. Exercising will firm you up, making your skin look toned and firm—doesn't a set of toned legs or strong arms always look nicer?

3. As Elle Woods in Legally Blonde put it, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't kill their husbands. They just don't." Rising stress levels can cause trauma to the skin in the form of wrinkles, acne or breakouts. Any physical exertion will reduce the level of stress you have.

4. When you work out, you should be drinking more water. Although your body is using that to hydrate itself as it sweats, it's also nourishing and cleansing to the skin.

It's a FIYA!!

Alright Turbo peeps! The time has come to announce the ETA of TURBO FIRE...it's the day after my birthday & yes you can send me presents..."alright alright enough already" is that what your yelling at me? It's....


JUNE 18th!

And that date is *ONLY* for the fabulous Beachbody coaches! You really really want to get your hands on all that is TURBO FIRE...sign up to coach, duh! ;)

Coach Price: $89
Retail Price: $119.85 for the Base kit- and you have to wait 2 weeks for it to be released to you.

Deluxe Kit comes with 8 more workouts!

Want a sneak preview:




Yes, that is me in the preview. So you know what that means...I've done TURBO FIRE! So you can take my word for it- it's an insanely FUN yet SWEAT BREAKING workout! I was drenched in sweat after each workout but I had a blast doing them which made me want to keep PRESSING PLAY!

You don't know where to sign up to coach- click here! And click on "Coach" or you can shoot me a message and I'll give you more details!

Shakeology Cleanse: Day 2

Hey all!

Today is day two of the Shakeology Cleanse. I'm happy to announce that I am still alive and that today was WAY better than yesterday. :) I reminded myself to drink more water, I think I didn't have as much yesterday, so that's one tip I have- don't be afraid to drink up!

I've gotten a lot of emails & facebook messages about what kind of green tea and fruit I'm eating. I just picked up an organic brand of green tea at Meijer and called it a day. And for the fruit I'm eating organic apples. But whatever fruit works for you is fine.

As for lightheaded-ness or hunger, that improved so much from yesterday. I think that previous to starting the cleanse I was putting too much caffeine in my body and I was craving that.

Also its great to have other people doing this with me. Being able to text and talk to Kathy, Jola and Jamie to see how they are doing and what they are feeling is GREAT. I recommend doing this with a friend if you are going to try. Makes you feel like you aren't alone. :)

I've also had a lot of people ask me for the schedule & for more details, here you go.

One more day to go! I'll let you know the details tomorrow! :)
If you have questions, feel free to ask!

Shakeology Cleanse: Day 1

Today is day one of the Shakeology Cleanse. A cleanse is something I have NEVER done before, I was scared and intimated. It's 8:45 p.m. and day one is almost over and all I have to say is THANK GOD.

In the "Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse" webinar it was said that the first day would be the hardest, well if that's so, then it won't be SO bad. I can do this!

I woke up, weighed myself and then started the day with a cup of green tea, which is probably one of the worst parts, I'm not a big fan of tea. I pretty much wait until it cools down and then I chug it. Next I drank my chocolate Shakeology with water/ice and 1/2 cup of fruit, lunch again was Shakeology with water/ice ONLY followed by dinner which was the salad with 4 oz of chicken and vegetables. I saved my last shakeology snack for after dinner, I haven't had it yet because I know that I get really really hungry in the evening.

I have been hungry several times throughout the day which made me realize how much I eat within a day and I'm not going to lie, normally I eat A LOT. Also my house is FULL of temptations. In the kitchen at this moment there are three different cakes and brownies just staring at me. Why oh why!

I have energy, that is not a problem. I did get a little light-headed but again let's remember I normally have a lot more food in my system. I can get light-headed easily, so that wasn't something that worried me.

I'm off to hang out with Mat and drink my last Shakeology snack for the night! Tomorrow I will update you all on how day 2 goes.

The Facts behind the Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse

A week or two ago I saw on every one of my Beachbody friends facebook statuses mention of the infamous "Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse." A cleanse...which to me sounds a little intimidating and kind of scary, intrigued me because I love Shakeology. So I jumped at the chance to listen to the Shakeology Cleanse experts when they put on a Beachbody webinar all about it! I figured I'd share what I learned with all of you!

What is the Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse?
It's a 3 day calorie restrict nutrient-dense eating plan that acts like a cleanse to flush out toxins and help get your body running more efficiently.

You can use it as a JUMP START to a new program or during a recovery week. You can also use it as a PLATEAU BREAKER! Remember, this is a PERFORMANCE cleanse, so it's different from many other cleanses, like the Master Cleanse, were you aren't getting hardly any calories, no nutrients and those last anywhere from 7 to 30 days. And you should be able to maintain light exercise during the Shakeology Cleanse.

Goals:
-Rid toxins
-Nutrient efficiency
-Reduce bloat/weight loss
-It will bring you hydration levels into homeostasis (which if you remember from health class is your HAPPY place!)
-Renewed engery

Results:
A lighter, cleaner and healthier YOU! :)

HOW DO YOU DO IT?

Here is the 3 day cleanse schedule:

All 3 days-

Start: 1 cup of green tea (no milk or anything extra in your tea!)

Breakfast: Shakeology with water, ice and OPTIONAL 1/2 cup fruit

Snack: 1 piece fruit

Lunch: Shakeology with water & ice ONLY. Followed by 1 cup green tea.

Snack: Shakeology with water & ice ONLY. (You can have this snack AFTER dinner if you want, it's up to you)

Dinner: Salad with greens, 3 servings of vegetables and 4 oz grilled white meat.

**Drink plenty of water
**ABSOLUTELY NO DAIRY OR SUGAR!

Potential negatives to be aware of:
-Headaches: If you are normally a caffeine drinker you might be experiencing some withdrawals.
-No weight loss: Measure your inches too!
-Hunger
-Lack of energy
-Light headed: modify the exercises you are doing, keep them light! if you have to add a small snack (5-10 almonds, 1/2 banana)



So who is in it with me to do a SHAKEOLOGY CLEANSE...I mean what have we got to lose but some weight! ;)

Let's see what we can do in 3 days!

I've been talking to Kathy about this and we figured we would do it on MAY 3rd, 4th and 5th that's MONDAY, TUESDAY and WEDNESDAY! If you want to join us, LET US KNOW! =) We are going to be relaying on each other for motivation & support, so you might as well do it with a group!

What do you need: Green tea & Shakeology. If you don't already have some Shakeology you can get it here: www.cardiopartycat.com




If you don't have the slightest clue what the heck Shakeology is, check out my youtube video from inside my kitchen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSJ_2Kr-0us

Questions? Let me know!

MY SHAKEOLOGY APOLOGY

HEY! I just wanted to share with you a blog post from the fabulous CHALENE JOHNSON which she did a year ago (dang shakeology has been around that long already!) about her love for it! You all know that I drink it EVERYDAY for lunch but if you want a fitness professional's advice, read her blog post:

MY SHAKEOLOGY APOLOGY

I’m a pretty humble person. I don’t ask for favors, or special treatment. I don’t name drop or expect that people should treat me like a VIP. I won’t cut in line even when a friend waves me up. I play by the rules and know that everyone is important. I think it’s rude when people act like they are entitled or that people should help them out because of their name, or who they are, or what they’ve done, their money, their status, whatever. One of my biggest pet peeves is my fellow fitness instructors who think they’re “all that” and the “club” owes them something because their classes are full. Get over yourself! In my book, the grocery store CEO is just as important as the kid who bags your bread and milk.

Which is why today I an apologizing. Publically.

The truth is in a moment of weak desperation, I pulled a “J.Lo” on Wednesday. Well I didn’t request white M&M’s and all white flowers in my dressing room. Nope. Just a little help in the Shakeology department. And I know an apology with an explanation is not really an apology, but I believe my Shakeology Apology warrants a teeny tiny explanation. You see…ever since Shakeology arrived at our door step, things in my household have changed.

Now before I go further.. know this. I’m not paid to endorse Shakeology. I have no stock in the company. No one at Beachbody has ever even asked me to “try it” let alone to talk about it. I have no relationhip with Shakeology, other than we since we met, I have fallen madly in love. First I fell head over heels which peaked Bret’s curiosity. Skeptical, Bret was a “believer” after two shakes. Next, my 11 year old (who refuses to eat anything green or that comes from nature), then my 9 year old, my father-in-law, my Mom, and all my exercise partners all fell under the spell of Shakeology. I admit when my bag of shakeology was full and heavy, it felt like it was last forever. I shared my bag of shakeology readily back in those early days of this month. I passed around my Shakeology like MC Hammer shared his money in those early days when record deal money was plentiful.

I’m a “pusher”. When I find something that’s amazing, whether it’s a new push-up bra, the worlds greatest George Foreman Grill, self-tanner, whatever it is that works like a charm, I tell the world. I push it. I like things that work! I share my findings.

So, naturally I grabbed my bag of Shakeology to pack for our upcoming family vacation (8 days in Maui, Hawaii.) If felt light. Panic overcame my being. A wave of hot blood rushed into my face. I thought, “Oh my gawd! We leave in 3days. This will NEVER last and I don’t have time to order more!!!” I freaked. There was only one thing to do.

I puffed my chest up and decided to see if I could pull any strings at Beachbody. I’ve sold ‘em a couple of million videos. That should be worth a favor or two.. right?? “May I ask whose calling?” the receptionist asked. “Yes, Chalene Johnson of Turbo Jam and ChaLEAN Extreme” I announced proudly. She was unimpressed. Probably President of the Shawn T fan club. Next, I found my go-to-girl, the gal with the beautiful smile who always says, “of course! What else can I do to help”, The lovely Leili in the production department. I pleaded my case. I told her how I had been to generous with my monthly supply and now I was nearly out! I begged her to ship me two bags…FedEx..priority am delivery. I didn’t expect it for free or anything. I mean, come on. I’m not a mooch. “Lieli, I don’t expect it for free. Just charge it to my friend Tony Horton’s account (I mean come on… P90X is on tv all day everyday! He can spot me on this one… right???)

She did. It worked. Leili came through! It was mid afternoon the next day when the UPS man drove up. I sprinted to his truck, my eyes bulging, body bloated and weak. Digestion irregular and blood sugars all a skew. I was panting, shaking and foam was frothing from he corners of my mouth (I was 4 hours past my daily scheduled Shakeology). He started to dismount his truck, box in hand. “Give it to me!” I shouted as I grabbed the package from the man dressed in brown.

I apologize for my behavior. With blender whirling and smell of chocolate with a hint of wheat grass, I felt the anxious excitment that a drug addict must feel when they score another hit of heroine.

Beachbody has several protein and meal replacement shakes. I’ve tried and used them all. You’ve never seen me blog about them. I’ve been in the fitness profession for 20 years. I’ve tried every shake, vitamin and protein suppliment. You can imagine because of the huge network of intstructors and customers of my company http://www.turbokick.com, on a monthlly basis I’m sent samples of every miracle nutrient, drink, vitamin, water, protein source, and shake you can imagine. I’ve tried them all. You’ve NEVER heard me encourage people to try them. I’ve talked about things I find yummy or tasty with decent nutrients. But Shakeology is in a class of it’s own. Period.

Unfortunately you can only get it from a coach. Some say it’s expensive. I say… DO YOUR RESEARCH! It’s cheap! You show me a meal with this many veggies, protein, enzymes, fruit blends, probiotics and vitamins that is this low in calorie and I’ll show you something much more expensive or that doesn’t have as much ! it can’t be done. It’s less than a cup of Starbucks. Get a clue! It’s cheap. Sure it’s more than what you’ve been paying for your normal meal replacement, but this is a total health drink. It’s super cheap if you become a coach. Don’t quote me here, but you get it about $30 cheaper if your’e coach with http://www.TeamBeachbody.com Now I am ineligible to be coach (because I’m a trainer with BeachBody) so I’ve been ordering it from my coach as customer. (Well, except for in this recent tantrum!)

BeachBody has just come out with Shakeology and it is truly amazing. Not only does it have all the great stuff I just mentioned but it tastes really really good (I have some GREAT recipes to really make it taste like a dream! Don’t just mix it with water and shake it. Boring! Visit my blog later this week for my fav recipes!

It really does take great! You don’t have to just take my word for it, take the word of a “very picky eater!!!”, my son 12 year old son Brock. Now let me tell you about my sweet son Brock, he HATES vegetables. I understand. I hated veggies til I was an adult. For years my Mom tried and for years, I found creative ways to dispose of the green stuff on my plate without her knowing. The other day Brock and I had a very touching moment. I made him is afternoon protein shake. He gulped it down, commenting, “That was good, but it tasted different today. Did you put something different in it?” I sat down next to him and broke the news to him. “Son, you just had your daily serving of veggies!” For the first time in his 12 year life, a complete days serving of fruits and vegetables and he liked it! Now granted… I needed his shake to taste a lot like what he’s used to, so I added the same stuff I always put in his protein shakes, a lil peanut butter and some fat free frozen yogurt. But it was the most nutritious meal he had probably had in his life. I felt a tear roll down my face. ( oh come on! Not really, but it makes the story). Seriously as a mom it gives such peace of mind knowing I can whip up a yummy shake hand it to my child and know he is getting so many great things his growing body needs.

Learn more… http://www.milliondollarbody.com/shakeology/

More details

WHATS IN IT

More than 70 different ingredients were chosen from around the world for their potency and bioavailability (the ability to deliver the nutrients your body needs). Here are the key nutrient groups that these ingredients deliver:*

Protein and Essential Amino Acids to help build long, lean muscles and reduce food cravings

Prebiotics and Digestive Enzymes, which aid in improving digestion, regularity, and nutrient absorption

Antioxidants and Phytonutrients to help counteract free radical damage that can lead to degenerative diseases

Vitamins and Minerals your body needs to function for optimal health.



LOVE IT!
If you want to check out Shakeology you can look at one of my two sites:
My Beachbody Site

My Shakeology Site

Do you have any questions? Get at me!

Insanity: Behind the Scenes

Are you ready to put your body to the test? Get at me!

TURBO FIRE

^^Can you spot me?

GET READY for the BEST workout around.....TURBO FIRE!

But guess what? You have to be a Beachbody Coach if you want to save 25%! OR if you want to be one of the first to purchase then you better make sure you are send up through a Beachbody Coach. Create a free account on my website- www.cardiopartycat.com simply click JOIN then create the FREE account and I'll let you know RIGHT AWAY when TURBO FIRE is released and you can purchase that second!

Don't miss out on transforming your life!!

Congress is doing P90X!

From athletes to actresses and now even CONGRESS! Everyone is doing the X!

I'm giving away a FREE P90X shirt!

^I always CHANGE the video still that youtube picks because it makes me look ridiculous but guess it didn't work yet! ER!


Contest ends NEXT MONDAY- March 29th!

Why are you exercising?

Recently someone asked me, "How long are you going to do that Turbo thing?" I of course immediately replied, "Forever!"

Then I thought about it...I don't ever see a point in my life where I wouldn't be working out. Why would I stop? It's something that I LOVE to do and I'll continue it until I possibly can not move my arms and legs, I hope to be sporting a leotard & rocking out with my walker in the old folks home! There are so many health benefits to working out, but on top of all that, it's a passion, habit and way of life.

Caterina's Reasons to Exercise (I feel like this will be a currently updated blog with more & more reasons)
-I love the why it makes me feel during & after a GREAT workout.
-I love working up a sweat and then jumping in the shower because I know that I earned it.
-I love to eat, trust me I'm Italian! So what better way to get to enjoy delicious foods then to workout to avoid putting extra calories into your body?
-Superficial alert: I love cute workout clothes & new shoes (and they aren't just for looks you have to USE them).
-I would not know what to do with myself/my time. Everyday I plan what my day will consist of, if I go a couple days without a good workout, I feel like my life is upside down. No not because I beat myself up over the guilt (even though I do feel guilty) but it's more of disrupting my pattern. I have made exercise a part of my life. I can't go back now, not even if I wanted to.
-I think it's fun! :)
-I like to feel good about my body.
-I want to live a long life.
-I know that in my family there is a big history of every kind of illness you can think of- I don't want ANY of that!!
-This one is a no brainer and I can't believe I didn't think of it sooner- I enjoy losing weight/inches! It makes me happy to see my hard work pay off.
-I like working out and hearing that other people are interested in doing the same workouts as me.
-It brings me closer to my friends! I love working out with my close friends and meeting new friends along the way on my fitness journey! :)
-I get paid to do it! ;) That's always a nice bonus.









So what about YOU? What are YOUR reasons?! Let's make a BIG list!

Extra, Extra Read All About It!

My Current Top 3 Personal Development Books

1. Goals!: How to Get Everything You Want-Faster Than You Ever Thought Possible - Brian Tracy



2. Crush It!: Why NOW Is the Time to Cash In on Your Passion- Gary Vaynerchuk



3. The Slight Edge: Secret to a Successful Life- Jeff Olson

$$$

For starters, I'll let this article by Matt Morris "The Unemployed Millionaire" speak for itself...

80 Top Network Marketing Companies

"My list of the most popular network marketing companies is back and bigger than before! I had my team increase our previous list of 50 network marketing companies to include 80 of today’s most popular network marketing companies for February 2010.

In my December 2009 edition of Most Popular Network Marketing Companies, I mentioned that I would share a few criterion to consider when you or anyone you know is considering a new network marketing opportunity. My recommendations are below the list!

The criteria for making the list remains the same: each network marketing company on the list has been in business for 3+ years (no fly-by-night companies) and is well known online (based on Alexa.com’s website traffic rankings)…


1. Avon
2. Global Domains International
3. Oriflame Kosmetiek B.V.
4. Natura Cosmeticos
5. Melaleuca
6. Team Beach Body www.teambeachbody.com 13,755
7. Usana
8. Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc.
9. Amway Global/Quixtar
10. Market America
11. Mary Kay

And the list goes on and on until 80...

Now Avon was no surprise to me, that company was founded in 1886...hello they should be billionaires! Now Team Beachbody started the 41 founding coaches in 2006. I am so IMPRESSED (yet not surprised) to know that this company is ROCKING IT! I think what I am the most surprised about is the companies that I figured would be high up...aren't.

The business is simple with “The Beachbody Revolution-Turn Your Weight Loss into Profit” system . . . the breakthrough income opportunity that’s perfect for YOU!

*Earn money while losing weight and helping others do the same.
*Be your own boss, work from home, part-time or full-it’s up to you!
*Get started for only $39.95 and no inventory costs.

You ready? Let me help you!



And I'll leave you with the rest of Matt Morris' post (with some modifications from myself)-

What To Consider Before Joining a Network Marketing Company…

Products. Look for the product that gets you most excited and that’s the best product for you. The key to success in network marketing comes from keeping yourself excited and bought-in psychologically to the product you’re selling.



Leadership. I once walked away from a six-figure income solely because I lost faith in the company’s leadership. A foundation of integrity is the bedrock of success for any network marketing company. When you promote a company, that company’s reputation and integrity will be a direct reflection of your reputation and integrity.

Sales and Marketing Programs. Make absolutely sure the company you are considering has a strong sales and marketing program in place. That way, all you and your organization will have to do is use the tools (i.e. CDs, DVDs, brochures, magazines, web sites, etc.) to do the presenting for you.

(A simple tool like the video I posted above? I think so!)

Mentorship. Is there someone in the company with a track record of success in building his or her income who is also able to assist others in creating success as well? Your chances of success will sky rocket if you can work with someone who has experienced success and wants to help you become successful. Most importantly, your mentor should be someone you trust and believe in.

(The entire Platinum Presenters team, www.platinumpresenters.com A GROUP OF TEAM BEACHBODY LEADERS!)

Timing. Timing is not going to make or break your success but it’s something to consider. I’ll share more on timing following the next list of top network marketing companies.




I hope you enjoyed this month’s list of the top network marketing companies! If we left your company off (and they match the criteria I previously listed), please let me know in the comments section below.
P.S. For more information about network marketing, get your copy of The Unemployed Millionaire: http://www.MattMorris.com/book. Be sure to check out Chapter 10: The Ultimate Time-Leveraging Business!



And please please please never be shy or hesitate to ASK ME QUESTIONS. No matter what your question is, reach out to me!

Find me on facebook or on twitter!

Have a GREAT day,
Coach Caterina

When I say HEY, you say HO! HEY HO HEY HO!

If you are a Turbo Jammer then you probably just sang that title line (or screamed it in my case). But no matter what you know what I'm talking about.

One of my friends just recently bought Turbo Jam and I wanted to share with you all the AMAZING facebook message I got after her first workout:

"I just finished my first Turbo workout, and HOLY CRAP am I sweating. I LOVE IT already and can't wait until tomorrow so I can do it again. This is the first workout dvd that I've bought that actually works! I already feel the lbs melting away lol. Thanks for recommending this workout!"

No problem girl! Thank you for trusting my advice and taking a giant step towards a better, healthier YOU! :)

This is one of my main reasons for being a Beachbody Coach. I don't do it to turn people into Turbo Jam addicts like myself (that is a bonus!), I do it because I LOVE getting messages like the one above. I love knowing that someone else is doing the same workouts as me and having a great time. They are changing their bodies and GETTING EXCITED about it. Honestly, that excitement and that PRIDE is the best feeling and sharing it with someone else is truly indescribable. You can see it in someone after they've had a great workout or measured themselves and seen that they lost inches. You can see it in the glow of their face, how straight they are walking with confidence and the words that they are saying sound so POSITIVE and HAPPY. I LOVE THAT!

Honestly, about an hour ago I was at working complaining and dreading my scheduled Insanity workout for the night. After writing this I am READY TO GO! Just expressing my opinions about how excited I am for other people, I got myself PUMPED UP. Time to stop blogging and starting sweating!

Talk to you soon!
Coach Caterina