Red Alert: Americans are Gaining!

New article talks about how the obesity rates in 28 states have risen. This is an epidemic and can be a life and death situation for some; it's sad and unnecesary. So many ailments and disease can be a direct result of obesity, such as diabetes, joint problems, high blood pressure, heart conditions, depression, etc.

It's not too late! We can reverse this trend and start a fit & healthy trend! Why should we? Being fit & healthy equips us physically and mentally with the ability to handle whatever comes our way; both the positives and negatives.

Here's the link to the article! Check it out and then let's get serious about taking better care of ourselves! If you're stuck, lack motivation, or are unsure how to begin then join me on my new journey Going for Your Goals. We're taking it step by step to figure out our goals and a plan of action to get there. Join us! Click Here to get started!

Going for Your Goals Post: Losing it with Jillian!!!

That's right, there's a new post up on the Going for Your Goals page! It's all about tonight's episode of Losing it with Jillian. There are some great life lessons in it so there may be some in there for you too. Check out the Going for Your Goals page now! http://fitnessandhealthrevolution.blogspot.com/p/going-for-goals.html

New Post on Going for Your Goals Page!

Check out the new post on the Going for Your Goals page! Click Here! Scroll down past the introduction on the page and the latest post will be listed first. Enjoy!

Exercise: The New Anti-Aging Agent

The positives about exercise keep growing! We know how great exercise is for us, now comes the news that exercise is a great anti-aging agent too! Click Here for more information!

Debunking Food Myths!

We have heard and read a lot of information on foods lately and some of it can be quite confusing. Here's a great article on 15 food myths to help us decipher all that information!

The first myth this article talks about are the frozen vegetables myth. I still prefer fresh vegetables to frozen when I can get it and its from a local source. I'm all for buying local produce because it supports our communities and is healthier since vegetables nutrients do decrease from the time their picked.

Here are the other food myths this article tackles:

2. Giving up favorite foods to lose weight
3. Packaged & processed foods
4. Taking supplements makes up for lack of healthy diet
5. Packaged foods are high in sodium
6. Good and bad foods
7. White potatoes
8. 8 cups of water a day
9. Fat free/lower calorie foods
10. We can eat anything as long as we don't eat too many calories
11. Bananas cause weight gain
12. Fast or slow eating doesn't matter as long as we're not overeating
13. Best food choice at restaurants for losing weight is a salad
14. Negative calorie foods
15. More time spent in the kitchen leads to healthier eating

Click Here for the article!

Going for Your Goals! Part One!

Part One of Going for your goals is up on the Going for Your Goals Page! Check it out! Click Here or go to the list of Pages on the right of this column. This is huge! We're taking steps to change our lives! Let's Do It!

Eat & Strength Train to Lose Weight!

That's right, some people may be eating too little food to fuel their body. We have to eat enough healthy foods to keep our energy up.

If you really want the weight to come off you might also want to try some strength training. Strength training builds up muscle which burns fat. You don't have to get bulky to do it, just toned. Check out this article for more information! Click Here!

BUZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!

The Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse Kit is coming! If you want to get a head start on getting healthy and losing weight then the Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse is for you! Check out this video for more info. on it!

Going for your Goals Challenge!

Check out the Going for your Goals page listed on my blog for all the information for the Going for the Goals Challenge! Starts Monday, June 28th! Ready, Set, Goals!

All Fired Up About TurboFire!

Now that I've gotten the new Chalene Johnson TurboFire DVD workout program and done a few of the workouts I can say that it is an awesome workout program! This program will keep you motivated!

There are 3 different calendar schedules you can follow depending on your fitness level, from starter to advanced. I'm going to be doing the hybrid schedule which is a combination of TurboFire and Chalean Extreme. I'll start posting results in two weeks and thereafter every two weeks to let you know how I'm doing. It'll also help keep me motivated!

Join me on this new part of my journey! Click Here for info on TurboFire! Click Here for info on Chalean Extreme!

Check the Food of the Week Page for this Weeks Post!

Chemicals in Our Food!

We know or we have an idea, that there are chemicals in the foods we eat, we just kind of push it aside as okay since its probably low doses. Right? I mean it is low doses??? Here's what I've been pondering lately, if the government says that certain amounts of chemicals are safe to digest, what about when their multiplied by the different foods/drinks we consume? Does that mean the levels are then doubled, tripled, etc? And at what point is it then unsafe?

For now let's start with the basics and figure out how and what chemicals are in the majority of foods we eat and go from there. This article will give us an idea on the subject. Click Here!

Tips to Kick the Processed Food Habit!

We all love our processed foods! Yep, even me. Albeit, I buy mostly organic/vegan processed foods, it's still frozen, not fresh. It can be a difficult task to kick our addiction to processed foods. It's become a way of life for most of us because it's so convenient and time saving. However, more and more evidence shows that convenience and time saving is costing us on the scale and nutrition end. This article helps us kick the habit with 7 tips:

1. True satisfaction
2. Label wisdom
3. Enjoy our food
4. Reduce salt, sugar, fat intake
5. Give yourself time to adjust
6. High quality foods
7. No skipping meals

If we can do this, we'll be sending a strong message to these food companies to get it together. About time too! Here's the link: Tips to Kick the Processed Food Habit

New USDA Nutrition Guidelines!

The new USDA Nutrition Guidelines are out! Following the guidelines is a great step in the right direction for eating healthier. Check out more Here!

Motivational Monday Challenge!

Challenge: Make a to do list! That's right the good ol' "To Do" list is back. Sound boring? It's not, it helps organize your thoughts for the day and figure out what's gotta get done. After you make your to do list cross off something that's not crucial to get done today & use that time for something positive & productive for you. Yep, that short amount of time is all about you! We all need a little me time, and we need to schedule it in like anything else we schedule. Even if it only free's up 10 minutes of your time, that's 10 minutes of quiet/meditation time, workout/walk, reading, anything that makes it about you and giving yourself a boost. You'll be surprised how good you feel! It's a little easier to do your day feeling postive and have a sense of accomplishment. Make today a great day!

Wake Up, Eat Healthy, Workout, Sleep Well

There have been several studies and articles done showing the benefits of exercise when it comes to sleep. I know since I started my own regular workout routines about 2 years ago most nights I sleep very soundly.

Here's another great article on this! http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=373

So let's get out there work up a sweat, eat healthy food, enjoy life and get a good night's sleep!

Time is NOW!

We're all great at learning about life, how to's, etc. I think we get stuck sometimes because we don't apply what we learn to our daily lives. We always say things like, "yeah, I know I should..." or "I'm waiting for the right moment". I finally figured out that when it comes to taking positive steps to change our lives, there is no "right time". The time is when you learned of it, thought of it, in others words NOW.

We are far too comfortable being uncomfortable in our lives. I'm stepping up & stomping that out! No more excuses, only doing here. Join me on this journey! If we give it our all I guarantee it'll be exciting, scary, fun, dark, light, full of love, have ups and downs, mountains to climb, sights to see, & so much more. What are we waiting for?

Ouch!

Sciatic pain is not a joke. I've had it before from a fall and went through physical rehab for it. This is a great article on the subject describing what it is and some tips on how to prevent it. The Ouch of It!

TurboFire Available Now!!!

Yes, it's true! TurboFire was originally scheduled for release June 18th, but late yesterday Beachbody released it! Get your copy today! I already ordered mine!!! Check it out! TurboFire!

Losing It with Jillian!

Losing It with Jillian is a great show! Here's what I'm learning from it: Jillian's message is it's all about choice. How we choose to work through & handle a situation is what builds us up or breaks us down. Can't control certain things that happen, but we can control how we handle it. Ask for help if needed & choose to live a healthy positive life & the positives in our lives will far outweigh the negatives.

Here's a great clip from the show!

8 Ways to Get Confident, Sexy, Better Sleep and much more!

Oh yes, exercise is a wondeful invention, not to mention the best overall medicine there is! If you're looking to make your skin glow, get rid of stress, increase your sex hormones, and much more, then you may want to read this great article listing how exercise can help with having:

1. Radiant skin
2. Self-confidence
3. Better stature
4. Less stress
5. Stronger immunity
6. Better sleep
7. Less fat
8. Stronger sex hormones

TurboFire will be here June 18th!

TurboFire, the new highly anticipated workout by Chalene Johsnon will be available starting June 18th! As a Coach I'm very excited about this workout program because I think it's going to help me and a lot of folks get in shape. Check it out! TurboFire Arrives June 18th!!!

Ick!!! Look what's in some foods and drinks we consume!

Check out this article on some foods and drinks we consume! Kind of mind boggling to think we actually EAT this stuff! ICK! Look what's in our food/drink!

I'm Back!

I was out sick for awhile with a stomach virus. The evil virus took me down for several days. I'm on the mend! Not a 100% yet, but getting there. Stomach viruses are gross, evil, and obviously something done to us humans by an alien race. It's genius really; talk about incapacitating someone for awhile. It sure does work!

Well now that the worst is over, back to posting!

Brazil Butt Lift Users - Win a Trip to Brazil!

If you've used Beachbody's Brazil Butt Lift DVD Workout Program and have an awesome transformation story you want to share you could win a trip to Brazil! Check it out! Brazil Butt Lift Contest!

Get Your Stretch On!

We all have times when we can't stick to our schedule and workout or we feel we need a bit more stretching. For those stuck at a desk, on a plane or in a car can make us feel stiff and sap our energy. Here are some great stretch tips to do to keep the energy flowing! Check it out! Get Your Stretch On!

Let's Get On Track!

Being comfortably uncomfortable with a situation, our weight, etc. because we fear the unknown can really drain us of our energy & motivation. I've learned (trust me that had to be drilled into me) that in order for there to be a different outcome we have to change our way of thinking/behavior.

Sometimes all it takes is 1 small change in how we think or do something that may seem insignificant, but can make a huge difference in the outcome. Telling ourselves we're worth it is a good place to start because after all, we are worth it! Each of us deserves the best! Let's start giving it to ourselves!!!

Arm Yourself!

In this article learn how a fitness pro struggles with his own excuses! We all do! We can apply this to all areas of our lives too! Check it out! Arm Yourself

Drink to Lose Weight!

Now I don't mean go drinking alcohol, instead the drink of the Gods... Water. Yes, what we've all heard growing up is true. Water is good for you! Here's an article that lists some drinks to avoid and one's to drink (water included).

Who Knew What They Said About Water Was True?!

Tony Horton, Creator of P90X to be on QVC!!!!

Tony Horton and Beachbody Coaches are going to be on QVC today & tomorrow! Check it out! Yes, you can get P90X on my BB site http://www.fitnessandhealthrevolution.com/ or on QVC; I just want folks to get it & have the experience I did. If you do get it remember to sign up for free on wowy.com and list me as your coach ...(Coach CarlaM1). U will be amazed @ ur results. I was not exactly fit when I started P90X. Heck I lost over 45 lbs doing it. U can do it!

Here are the show times:


Wednesday, June 09 11:00 - 12:00 AM ET

Thursday, June 10 6:00 - 7:00 AM ET

Thursday, June 10 4:00 - 5:00 PM ET

Natural Ways to Lift Your Mood!

We've all heard how certain natural things can make us feel better. Turns out it's true! Here's an article about what steps we can take to help ourselves feel better when feeling a little down.

Nothing earth shattering here, but something we should really pay attention to and give it our best shot. I know from personal experience that exercise is an awesome way to lift your mood! Give it a try!

Steps listed in article include:
*Working out
*Eating healthy foods
*Happy sleep
*Quiet time
*Light therapy
*Reach out and call someone

Check out the article for more details!

Chalene's Tips on Weight Loss - Step 2!

Check it Out!

Check out my pages on my blog for info on a bunch of great topics such as motivation! We all need it, now find out how to get it!

Spice Up Your Life!

Health Benefits of Spices!

We all know that there are beneficial foods out there that we can eat for losing weight, staying fit and healthy, certain ailments, but many of us don't know about the benefit of spices. Not only do they "spice" up our life, they can give it quite a boost!

Skip Breakfast to Workout?

An article about some experts saying it may be better to workout on an empty stomach. I think it depends on how your body is. If you workout better with food in your tummy then go for it, if not go the other route.

Personally I get up at 4 am during the week to workout and workout first thing. So I am currently working out on an empty stomach. I prefer to eat after I workout; although I actually drink a Shakeology instead of eating breakfast. That comes later.

Tips to Get Your Family Fit!

Here's an article to help you start your family on a course of fitness. Few tips it talks about:

*activities should be ones that all can join in on
*flexible schedules are important
*warm ups and cool downs are a must
*be encouraging to each other
*log your activities

One thought I have on this is that if the parents start working out and doing more physical activities kids will pick up on this. It's that old "lead by example" thing.

Let's go get fit!

Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse Information!

Team Beachbody Coach Opportunity

I became a Team Beachbody Coach because the Beachbody workouts were the first workouts in a long time that I stuck to and offered free support to keep on sticking to it. I also signed up for the awesome discounts Coaches get on Beachbody products!

After being a Coach for awhile I felt the desire to help and inspire others to reach their own personal goals, which is where I'm at now. I want to help people with their health and fitness goals and beyond! Plus, it's a great thing when you can make money doing something you like to do.

Food of the Week: Sweet Potatoes!

Who knew sweet potatoes could be so good for you?

Get Your Motiviation On!

Check out this article from Fitness Magazine on getting and staying motivated when you:

• Think the scale is stuck
• Gotta switch up your routine
• Can't possibly do another rep
• Tell yourself there's no way I can do that
• Think you're down for the count due to a knee injury

So which bun is which?

Great list of rolls/buns to avoid and eat for all those summer barbecues!

Thomas Edison - Optimism Pass it On!

So This is What I'm Going For!

So some of you are probably wondering what's in it for me to do this blog; just to sell us on Beachbody.  Hey, I'd be asking the same questions. Yes, I love Beachbody, however, if I can motivate folks to get on board with any nutritional, weight loss, fitness programs then I'm happy.

Why? Because I believe we are in a better position to help and serve others when we're taking care of ourselves. It's easier to lead by example and give others guidance when you're taking care of yourself as well. I love being a Beachbody Coach because Beachbody fitness programs helped me find me and propelled me to act on my other goals beyond fitness. If they do it for you great! If other programs do it for you great! I just want people to find what motivates them to exceed and reach their goals. In reaching our goals we are being the best we can and helping others do the same.

It's easy to say to people "you can do it, you can make it happen, change your life", etc. It's not so easy to actually do it. Some people are completely stuck & don't have any idea how to just start. I want to help folks because I know that feeling, I was there; I was once stuck too. That's the whole reason I'm doing this blog. I want to help, I want to motivate, and get people involved.

I believe we're here to help each other through this life journey. I think the best place to start is by caring for ourselves, nurturing ourselves, by eating healthy and getting fit because that provides us with a core and gives us the energy, motivation, and confidence to reach for other goals.

 This is what I want to share...