FitSugar -- Healthy, happy you.

A Boot Camp You Can Fit into Your Lunch Break

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Bikini season is at its peak, so how come we've lost motivation at the gym? Probably because we're bored!

We've gone full force leading up until Summer and then we run out of ideas to keep us motivated. The same old routine is just that, routine. If you're looking to change up your exercise program and really keep your motivation going, then try out my mini-boot camp. It's only six minutes and it's a sure way to work your legs, arms, and abs. All you need is your body weight and six minutes to spare. Ready? Go!

I often do the boot camp as a supplement to my outdoor runs and stair climbing, but you could also do it inside as well. Let me know what you think when you try it. I'll bet you thought it was a lot harder than it looks. If you liked it, then be sure to print out the exercises so you can do it without your computer in the future.

Breakup Abs

FitSugar — Sat, 17 May 2008 03:00:00 -0700

Breakups happen all the time. It's a common thing, but this girl didn't get depressed or turn to food to make her feel better. She turned to exercise, and overcame the sadness by doing something that made her feel stronger both physically and emotionally. If you think her abs already look strong in the before pictures, wait until you see her ab transformation. Talk about sticking to a fitness plan.

Get Flash to see this player.

I realize that the woman in this video could be seen as a little obsessive, and that she posted her belly on the Internet as a way to get attention. The smile on her face at the end is proof that she's so proud of herself, but I hope she knows that her 8-pack abs don't make her any more lovable for the next guy she dates.

What do you think about this video? Do you view it as inspirational or as a display of someone's poor self-esteem? Have you ever had something in your life happen that triggered you to get healthy or start exercising?

Get Motivated: One of the Most Inspirational Home Runs Ever

FitSugar — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:00:00 -0700

I am not usually moved by sports stories. Something about overpaid men getting overly emotional just doesn't do it for me.

This next one serves as an exception. Maybe I'm overly emotional, but this story truly demonstrates ultimate sportsmanship during a Western Oregon and Central Washington softball girls game — I'm not kidding, I literally got tears in my eyes. Watch the story below and try to tell me if it doesn't inspire you athletically and personally.

Pretty great, right? Oh, how I love feel-good story, especially when it's related to women and exercise!

Lower Body Workout Video Online

FitSugar — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:45:00 -0800

Looking to tone your lower body? Then you definitely need to try this video from Lifeskool. I'll warn you ahead of time, it's hard. Not only is it heavy in lunges and squats, and when I say heavy I mean the entire workout is basically lunges and squats, it's also pretty fast paced and nonstop. One thing is for sure though, you're definitely going to feel the burn. Just don't curse my name when you can't sit on the toilet in two days.

Fit's Tip: If you've never done a lunge or squat in your life, or if you have bad knees, you may want to opt out until your lower body is stronger.

Partner Yoga Pose: The Fountain

FitSugar — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:45:00 -0800

Many of the Partner Yoga poses I've posted recently focus on opening up the hamstrings and hips, so let's try one that increases flexibility in your spine. This pose called The Fountain will also challenge your ability to trust your partner.

Get Flash to see this player.

Music: "Silence" by Delerium

I know this pose doesn't look like much, but once you give it a try, your back will be loving it. To see a detailed description of how to get into this pose with a partner,

Always Wear Sunscreen

FitSugar — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 16:30:00 -0800

This song made the rounds on the airwaves right before the millennium, and I loved it then and I love it now. After revisiting it today (thanks DearSugar for bringing it back) I realized that there are a lot of basic health tips in here, such as always wearing sunscreen and flossing. More than that, though, it offers basic, simple tips for living your life. The first time I heard it, I laughed and I cried, so enjoy.

Ellen and Carmen Bedroom Workout

FitSugar — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 08:45:00 -0800

Carmen Electra has a new Aerobic Striptease - In the Bedroom DVD and she convinced Ellen to do a little bit of the workout with her on Ellen's show recently. I personally resonated with this clip because Ellen acts exactly how I feel when I am doing these sexy type workout videos — and I also happen to really enjoy Ellen.

Check it out. You're guaranteed to laugh and it'll make you feel good about yourself if you too feel ridiculous doing sexy workout DVDs.

Wii Fit: Has Anyone Tried It?

FitSugar — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:30:00 -0800

So I had high hopes for Wii Fit, but after much criticism and research about how the Wii doesn't really compare to a real workout, I am rather skeptical these days. This funny parody didn't help convince me either — though I did get a good laugh out of it, especially with the hula hoop mention since I am guessing Beyoncé did not get so bootylicious by standing on a Wii Fit.

(Here's the real promo.)

Has anyone tried the Wii Fit? If so, did you get a good workout? I'm dying to know and I am sure everyone else is, too.

Speak Up: What's Your Best Feature?

FitSugar — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 02:30:00 -0800

Remember a while ago I posted a video called A Fat Rant? Well the woman in that video made this one about body image called "Totally Awesome."

As women, we spend so much time obsessing about the parts of our bodies we want to change, that we overlook the parts that are perfect. This isn't healthy for our self image, and if we could instead focus on the features we're proud of, we'd feel happier and more confident about ourselves. So think about it. Do you have a great butt, strong arms, or toned calves? Tell me, what part of your body do you love?

If You Were Wondering How Hayden Got to Be So Fit . . .

FitSugar — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 07:30:00 -0800

It looks like it comes from some serious time at the gym. From lunges to bicep curls/overhead press to elevated push-ups, Hayden Panettiere's trainer puts her through the ringer.

No Treadmill? Try This

FitSugar — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 14:30:00 -0800

If you love running outside, but aren't into Winter running, you may opt for using a treadmill. Buying one can be pretty pricey and so can joining a gym (those monthly payments really add up).

Check out this creative and less-expensive option using a door, a resistance band, and a door anchor.

NO TREADMILL? NO PROBLEM. HERE IS A GREAT TIP - Funny videos are here

This does seem a bit dorky, but it really provides an excellent workout. Tell me in the comment section below if this is something you would do.

Another Great Ford Model Fitness Video

FitSugar — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 04:00:00 -0800

I've highlighted a few Ford Model Fitness Videos because they actually do provide some great ideas for working out. The latest video I've come across is a butt workout with Kim Strother. Watch and think about integrating any of the exercises into your own butt workout.

On an interesting side note, Kim has recently been linked to cyclist Lance Armstrong.

Get Motivated: Sofia Can Dance

FitSugar — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 15:30:00 -0800

Nike sponsors big names in sports like NYC marathon winner Paula Radcliffe. They also sponsor hip hop dancers like Sofia Boutella. You need to watch this video if only to see what a body can do!

Watching her dance made me want to work my body and keep it flexible. How about you?

How Often Do You Use Fitness DVDs?

FitSugar — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 02:30:00 -0800

I own tons of workout videos, because as a mother of two, getting to the gym or to a class doesn't always happen. I can pop in a video after the girls are in bed or during a rare double nap time. I know some DVDs can be pretty boring or cheesy, but they're better than nothing. I probably use a video twice a month.What about you? Are you into using fitness DVDs? How often do you use them?

How Often Do You Use Fitness DVDs?

1-3 times a month

1-2 times a week

3-4 times a week

5 or more times a week

Every once in a while

I never use fitness DVDs.

Get Motivated: Jump Rope Video

FitSugar — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 02:00:00 -0800

Jumping rope is all the rage these days. It is a quick way to burn some calories! Sugar user EllaBella shared this great music video full of fanciful jump rope moves! I watched it and was so inspired. Hopefully it will get you moving too! So get out your jump ropes and practice your moves!

Use It at Home: Dr. Andrew Weil's Guide to Eating Well DVD

FitSugar — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 07:30:00 -0700

Soy is good for you. No soy is bad for you. OK, a little bit of soy is good for you, but don't overdo it. Ahhhh... We are constantly getting conflicting statements from experts about what we should eat and what we should avoid. I don't know about you, but I just don't know what to believe anymore.

Dr. Andrew Weil through his DVD Guide to Eating Well is here to help. He says nutritional experts really do agree on the optimum diet for long life. He describes that perfect diet, how to shop for high quality foods, and how to be a smart label reader. He also gives you some valuable tips on how to eat right when you eat out (like ordering one dessert for the table to share - not one dessert for each person).

You'll also get an overview of the basics of nutrition, so if you're confused about which foods are good for you, how much you should be eating of them, and why they're good for you in the first place, this DVD will help to clear up your questions.

I was happy to hear that much of Dr. Weil's info is what FitSugar preaches already. He focuses on eating foods with wholesome ingredients (that you can pronounce), and steering clear of processed foods and anything with hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup. He's also into eating a varied diet filled with lots of fruits and veggies, and limited foods that are high in saturated fat. I'm glad he talked about enjoyment over deprivation. You can still eat the foods you love, but moderation is key. This is the kind of DVD you learn from, and pass on to your friends and family. Order it from Acacia for $14.99.

Yoga Video: Vinyasa to Cobra

FitSugar — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 11:45:00 -0700

When it comes to yoga, I'm a huge fan of the kinds that use vinyasas, like Ashtanga and Jivamukti, since the vinyasa keeps you moving. Vinyasas are movement transitions that link poses together making your practice like a continuous fluid dance.

I've already shown you how to do a vinyasa between seated postures. Now here's a video to show you how to do a vinyasa to get from a standing pose to one where you're lying flat on your belly, as in Cobra pose.

Music: Mountain Hare Krishna by Krishna Das

Get on the Ball: Advanced Camel

FitSugar — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 02:30:00 -0700

I love backbending poses. Stretching through the front of my body makes me feel so open and alive. I always feel so energized afterwards.

One of my favorite backbends is the Camel. It feels amazing on its own, but if you do it with an exercise ball, you can stretch your spine even further. Just place the ball against a sturdy wall, arch back, place your hands on the ball and walk them down. You can even work on getting the crown of your head on the ground, which is a great prep for an advanced backbend called Thunderbolt. Check out this video to see how to get into it.

Music: The Calling by Pressure Drop

A Week In Review: FitSugar Roundup

FitSugar — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 04:00:00 -0700

In case you missed it, here's what we've been talking about...

There's still time to win a Polar Heart Rate Monitor!!!

Bored on the treadmill? Check out this treadmill workout that is sure to burn calories and boredom.

A great breakdown of how many calories you can burn doing your favorite summer activities.

Are these heart workout pants cool? Take the poll.

While you're expressing your opinion, do you workout with a friend or alone? Take the poll.

Looking for a great workout video? Here's a video to work your upper outer thighs and your low glutes (aka, the panty line muscles).

Want a butt like Jessica Biel? here are five easy ways to work your booty.

Here are some great stretches for your hamstrings.

Jennifer Aniston does stand up paddle surfing. Should you?

What the heck is in Red Bull anyway? Here are the nitty-gritty details.

OK, seriously... Can pregnant women dye their hair or what?

There are 8 foods you may want to eat everyday -- here they are.

I want your opinion -- Is obesity or thinness more socially acceptable?

See if you can guess which celeb is not a member of the 5 Factor Fitness club.

Exercise Video: The Clam Series

FitSugar — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:45:00 -0700

Having a shapely tush is always in fashion and that is why the Clam Series of exercises is a perennial favorite. In this efficient, short series you will be working your upper outer thigh and your low glutes - I call this the panty line muscle group.

So lie on your side and get ready for the Clam!

Get Flash to see this player.

Fit's Tip: Make sure to stretch your low glutes after doing the Clam with the figure 4 stretch. Work the muscles, and then stretch them so they become firm but stay flexible.

Baby Talk!

FitSugar — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 02:00:00 -0700

In light of all the recent toy recalls, you may be looking for new ways to entertain your baby. Well, don't park your little loved one in front of a video, even if the title contains the words "Einstein" or "Brainy" - new research indicates screen time may delay developing language skills in babies.

Researchers at the University of Washington found that with every hour per day spent watching baby DVDs and videos, infants learned six to eight fewer new vocabulary words than babies who never watched videos. Watching DVD's during the early stages of language development, from around 8 months to 16 months, was found to be most detrimental on babies learning new words. Basically, more TV time equals fewer words.

This UW study is not the first study to criticize baby videos, and chances are high it will not be the last. Mounting evidence suggests that passive screen time doesn't promote learning and might actually hinder development. The truth is, babies require face-to-face interaction to learn. So talk to your baby as much as you can, any way you can. One of my favorite sayings is, "Read to your baby often, and someday soon, your baby will read to you."

While videos are often used by harried moms to create much needed breaks for themselves, it might be time to rethink that plan. Any suggestions for how to keep little ones occupied so moms can take care of necessary business, like: phone calls, bathing, chilling out? Share your ideas in the comments section below.

Source

Celebrities or Not, Heidi and Spencer Want Hot Bods

FitSugar — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 07:30:00 -0700

The debate is still up in the air over whether Heidi and Spencer, from The Hills, are celebrities or not. One thing is for sure is that they are definitely into working out, and while I think all their hard work is paying off, I am not sure they're going to achieve the title of 'the most fit couple in America'...

Fitness Made Difficult

FitSugar — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Have you ever seen the commercial advertising celebrity trainer, John Basedow, and his "Fitness Made Simple" workout DVDs?

Well, as if that commercial wasn't funny enough (it's completely lame and dorky), check out this spoof for Tom Facedown's "Fitness made Difficult." If you have ever worked with a crazy trainer, you will definitely be able to relate!

If you want to see the original TV commercial,

Yoga Video: Sun Salutation B

FitSugar — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 12:30:00 -0700

In honor of the summer solstice and the first day of Summer, let's do Sun Salutation B. This video will walk you through the entire sequence once, but I definitely recommend doing it about 5 times. That way you'll give your body a chance to warm up and stretch out.

Music: Solar Spirit by Asiatronic

Fit's Tips If you don't have much time, but still want to do a short yoga session, do 5 Sun Salutations A's and 5 Sun Salutation B's. It's the perfect warm up to begin your day or before a run.

In Case You Were STILL Eating at McDonald's...

FitSugar — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 03:30:00 -0700

This video is a MUST see! I knew McDonald's was bad for me because of the cholesterol, saturated fat, and sugar content, but I had no idea that there were so many preservatives pumped into this crap too!

The man who made the documentary Super Size Me (which is also a MUST see, by the way), conducted this interesting science experiment with McDonald's food. Check out the French fries...

Want to hear more about McDonald's? Then

Exercise Video: Mini Boot Camp

FitSugar — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:30:00 -0700

Looking for some moves to add to your workout? Moves that don't require any props or accessories, just a healthy "can do" attitude?

Well here's 6 minutes worth of moves that work your legs, arms, and abs. These are whole body, multitasking moves. You get some serious bang for your buck here. Add this workout into your routine and use it to split up time on a cardio equipment, or after your run. So the routine would go something like this: 10 minutes on the treadmill, mini boot camp, 10 minutes on elliptical, mini boot camp . . . you get the idea. Try it out and let me know what you think.

There is an isometric crab at the end of the video, if you feel you heart rate is still high you should hold off since the abrupt stop in motion is not the best for your heart.

There are a few tips, to see them just

YOGA CHALLENGE VIDEO: Double Arm Headstand

FitSugar — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:45:00 -0700

Have you tried the latest YOGA CHALLENGE? The pose is a Double Arm Headstand, and since this is a pretty difficult pose (this is a challenge isn't it?), I thought seeing a video would help you figure out how to get both in and out of the pose.

If that's too challenging, you can try Double Arm Headstand in front of a wall - using the wall for balance and support. To see the video,

Model Treadmill Workout

FitSugar — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 02:30:00 -0700

I am always looking for good workouts online, but when I came across this treadmill program from Ford Models I prepped myself to really hate it. I was definitely wrong here, since this quick little video actually gives us a great treadmill workout -- One that you can add to your boredom busting repertoire at the gym.

Try it out and let me know what you think. I did it and aside from a minor blunder while going sideways (hey, even I can have two left feet sometimes), I really enjoyed it.

What's Up Dog? Are You Down (DOG?)

FitSugar — Sat, 19 May 2007 02:00:00 -0700

Remember waking up on Saturday morning and watching cartoons? Well this video, while not a cartoon, is quite cartoonish. It is super cute, so beware 'cause you might just start singing this catchy song soon after watching the video.

You've got to get up to get down! Down Dog that is. Check out this adorable musical explanation of Sun Salutation A from The Ohmies (ha, get it? Om. Too cute). It's called "Up/Down Dawg."

You've got to do Up Dog, and then Down Dog. Are you down (dog)?

NikeWomen Workouts

FitSugar — Thu, 10 May 2007 17:15:00 -0700

I was checking out the nikewomen.com website, after coming across a Fit Find by sugar user Nicolesidl of their Dance Hall video. Watch the music video first, and then you can learn all their dance/cardio moves as they break down the technique.

The Nike workouts include more than just the Dance Hall workout, which was created by Jaime King. In this workout, you'll learn dance moves that burn calories while strengthening your legs and your core. Plus it's like a dance party in your house.

There is also the Music Video Workout - you'll learn some common hip-hop moves inspired by the hottest music videos. Definitely check out this music video - it was my favorite one. It'll get your soul excited and inspire you to learn the sexy moves.

Want to see the others? Then

Yoga Video: Sun Salutation A

FitSugar — Mon, 07 May 2007 04:00:00 -0700

I know I've already described Sun Salutation A to you, but seeing it in action makes it much easier to learn, so follow along with me.

It's a great warm-up for running or biking, or a gentle way to wake up in the morning so you can ditch your usual cup of coffee (OK, well, maybe not, but it's worth a shot).

Music: Transform by T.J. Rehmi

Maintain Focus - No Matter What

FitSugar — Sat, 05 May 2007 02:00:00 -0700

When you're doing yoga, it's really important to be aware of your body, and to be conscious of your movements. Bringing your attention inward is a big part of the yoga practice. If your mind is wandering, or something distracts you, you could get careless with your actions, and end up getting injured.

Check out this yogi's response to a furry, purring distraction...

Now that you are inspired and focused, try this side angle pose.

Another Great Reason to Quit Smoking

FitSugar — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 02:30:00 -0800

As if we weren't inundated with enough reasons and pure scientific evidence to quit smoking, here's one more...

Learn Cheerleading Skills With Paula Abdul

FitSugar — Sat, 03 Mar 2007 08:17:03 -0800

Do you love Paula Abdul and cheerleading? Of course you do. Now you can have it all with Cardio Cheer. The complete 5-Disc set is only $74.98.

She got her start cheerleading with the Laker Girls. Paula says, "It's the fundamentals I learned in cheerleading that have been my foundation for success."

This exercise video involves stretching (yoga), power moves, lunges, clapping (that's right), and jumps. "Practice until the moves become a part of your body, and watch how your confidence grows and grows."

Paula ends with, "Now let's get lean, get toned, and get the legs, abs, and arms you always wanted by giving it your all."

I have to say, it looks really fun, even though it is slightly on the cheesy side. A lot of girls always dreamed of being cheerleaders, so here's your chance to learn those moves.

Treadmill Trivia

FitSugar — Sat, 03 Mar 2007 02:17:03 -0800

As if going for a run wasn't hard enough - now you have the pressure of this? Talk about motivation to keep going...

I thought you all might find that motivational, crazy or just plain fun. Hope you are enjoying your weekend!!!

Laughing Burns More Calories Than This: Body Fusion

FitSugar — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 07:00:00 -0800

I am not sure if you caught Drew Barrymore on Saturday Night Live a few weeks ago, but she did a skit that I think is rather appropriate for FitSugar. You already know that I love the healthy way Drew views her body, so I was giddy when I saw her making fun of old school workout videos recently.

After watching this I am thinking that you would burn more calories laughing at the ridiculousness of the Body Fusion workout than if you were actually doing it. I love the different levels of difficulty, so reminiscent of Jane Fonda's workouts -- Enjoy!

Move it at Home: David Swenson's Ashtanga Yoga: First Series

FitSugar — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 14:00:00 -0800

David Swenson is an incredibly well-known yoga instructor and practitioner. He began practicing when he was 13 and was introduced to Ashtanga at 19 by David Williams and Nancy Gilgoff (also very well known). Plus he studied with K. Pattabhi Jois, the master of Ashtanga.

His DVD, Ashtanga Yoga: First Series, available through Amazon for $24.95, is wonderful whether you are first learning or have been practicing for years.

There's a 30 minute intro explaining the foundations of the practice. Immediately following is the complete fully guided First Series, in the traditional flowing rhythm essential to Ashtanga Yoga. Ending with a guided deep relaxation, the series is about 1 1/2 hours long.

David's delivery of the basic principles is clear and down-to-earth. It's easy to follow along, and I love that he offers modifications so all levels of yogis will be able to follow along.

I definitely recommend this video if you want to learn First Series, or if you've already fallen in love with it. It's challenging both physically and mentally, yet very rewarding.

Amazing Glutes: These Glutes Were Made for Walking

FitSugar — Sun, 21 Jan 2007 08:00:00 -0800

This video brings new meaning to working your buns. Check this out.

Extreme Stretching

FitSugar — Sat, 13 Jan 2007 02:35:00 -0800

After a nice long run or afternoon of skiing, you might want to try these 3 exercises to stretch those tight and tired muscles out.

Put Your Mouse Down: Neck Stretch

FitSugar — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 13:00:00 -0800

We all need a little break from computing to remember we have a body.

So put your mouse down...and watch this video. Do the neck stretch while you watch.

If you want more on desk stretching and personalized reminders check out MacBreakZ.

IT IS THIGH TIME: Inner Thigh Work

FitSugar — Wed, 20 Dec 2006 11:15:00 -0800

Here is another IT IS THIGH TIME video. To slim down muscular thighs you need to strengthen the inner thigh after releasing your quads and IT band. This exercise series might remind you of Jane Fonda's work out videos from the 80's, but they've been staples of the Pilates mat repertoire for many decades.

Make sure you are lying on something soft like a thick rug or exercise mat to cushion your hips.

Stayed tuned for more It is Thigh Time exercise videos.

Get Lifted: Dumbbell Side Bends

FitSugar — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 09:00:00 -0800

Dumbbell Side Bends will definitely work to whittle your waist away. Check out this video to see how the exercise is done. Try it next time you are at the gym.

Fit's Tip: If you are inexperienced, you may want to start with less weight and if you are more experienced you may want to start heavier.

Dove Evolution

FitSugar — Sat, 16 Dec 2006 20:30:00 -0800

When it comes to beauty, I feel we hold ourselves up to impossible standards. This video, part of Dove's campaign for real beauty, shows us bit by bit how beauty is constructed. It is no small feat. No wonder we have such horrible self-esteem issues and low self-confidence - look what they have to compete with.

Check out Dove's campaign for real beauty, to share your views and to see what Dove's doing to build self-esteem and make every woman feel like she is beautiful just the way she is.

To check out the flip side of all this, check out this spoof GiggleSugar found Dove Real Ugly: The man edition.

Shake it! Don't Break it

FitSugar — Sat, 09 Dec 2006 04:00:00 -0800

Looking for some motivation to get your groove on? New reasons to strengthen your upper body? Did you think break dancing went out with the 80's? The answers to all those questions are in the video below.

Check it out "b boys," the fly girls are now truly flying.

While these moves are inspirational and incredible, they can't be good for your head.

Fit's Tip: Check out this Breakdance Step-By-Step 2 Disc DVD to get started. Oh, and please be careful. It's Breakdancing, not Break-your-body. Or you can find out if there are any Beginner Breakdancing classes in your area.

Name That Asana - Want to play?

FitSugar — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 13:00:00 -0800

Want to play Name That Asana? It's the latest game show on Fitsugar. While it's not exactly Deal or No Deal, it is hilarious. Plus, you get to flex your mental muscle as you guess the names of different yoga poses - asana is the Sanskrit word for "pose."

There may not be prize money involved, but it is good for a few laughs. Be on the look out for more FitSugar videos. They're coming your way soon.