What is this core you speak of?

Growing up, I was in 2-4 dance classes a week plus some gymnastics work here and there; and, though

I was too young to know better at the time, I was great shape. After high school, I didn't maintain that same level of fitness. I just did what I had to do to get through college (which involved daily taco bell and the new-found glory of Starbucks coffee) while working full-time or close to it. I worked my butt off to achieve career goals, but let my physical activity level dwindle into oblivion. 

Right after college (I mean two weeks after graduation), we were married and had our first baby within two years of that time. We had another baby every two years after and while I may have dropped pounds, my actual fitness level never really improved. Ever hear of skinny fat? Yeah. 

Anywho. I couldn't even do a sit-up without a medicine ball because my core was seemingly dead. Gone. No where to be found. I thought maybe that's just how it was going to be after four babies stretched my stomach into uncharted territories.

Over the last two weeks, I've been dedicated and determined to move through the PiYo fitness challenge, without missing a day. I've been successful so far and while I haven't taken measurements yet (waiting till after week 4), I can totally tell a difference already. I am confident my core strength will return! My balance is still there. My agility and flexibility is improving with every workout. And, guess what? Last night, I did sit-ups WITHOUT a medicine ball. You have no idea. I've tried SOOOOO many times since having kids, and I just couldn't do it. It was like someone was holding me down. 

Because I'm a slave to the scale (I know this isn't good, you don't have to tell me), I do know that I'm down 5lbs since starting PiYo! 

But, I have to remind you of something reeeeallly important. Have you ever heard the saying: Abs are made in the kitchen?  I totally believe that, too. In addition to being really strict with PiYo, I maintain a clean eating, vegetarian lifestyle - including one Shakeology a day. 

Don't forget to follow me on Instagram to see what I'm eating and for more tips and tricks! Want to know more about PiYo or Shakeology? Just email me and I'll send you the info on how to order. 

I'm in love with PiYo.

I think it was some time last winter when I saw Chalene Johnson make the long-awaited announcement, via social media, that there would indeed by a PiYo DVD series. At that moment, I followed every waiting list, announcement list, IG account, twitter handle and Facebook account that would send me more info because I DID NOT want to miss the big release date. I absolutely love Chalene's videos, for one, and for two... Pilates + Yoga??? It's like she invented this routine for ME. Goodness.

My videos came in the mail last week and I set them aside until after vacation because...honestly? Why ruin a good start to something with vacation ice cream, road trip McDoubles and hefty servings of are-we-there-yet ice cold Coca-Cola. Can I get an amen?

Besides, there was a PiYo challenge group starting the day after we got back in town anyway. I wouldn't want to be an over-achiever and get ahead of those guys (insert eye-roll, here).

Anywho. I tore open the videos on Monday morning and WOWEE!!! If you think you think pilates/yoga is for wimps, you are sorrily mistaken! PiYO makes use of your own body weight for strength training while defining your entire body. It's basically amazing and I can't wait to see the change that 30 and 60 days will bring. I can tell it's working already and, the best part? I actually look forward to PiYo-ing each day. Awesome. :)

I really enjoy strength training, but unless someone is telling me what do to and how often to do it - I might as well just lift soup cans 200 times a day because it would probably be just as effective. Chalene's instructions are very detailed and easy to understand. The best part? No extra equipment is required. Your body. Towel. Water bottle. And, of course, the DVD. Well, a DVD player might help, too... I love, love, love this video series and I hope you'll try it out, too!

Interested in learning more about PiYo? Message me and I'll be happy to tell you more, help you order and coach you as we go! 

Order your copy of PiYo here!