4 Reasons to be Active

There are literally hundreds of reasons why being active is beneficial.  Exercise is good for your body, your mind and for your social life.

Here are four reasons that I believe will inspire you to get up and get healthy. Once you’ve read through, I know you’ll join me and become a happier, healthier you.

1.  Reduced stress
Most of our lives are filled with stress of some sort, whether it’s lack of time, financial struggles, difficult work deadlines or simply trying to herd your children to school.

Stress can lead to weight gain and make losing weight more difficult, so finding time for activity has never been so important.
Stress also often causes over-eating and this can lead to weight gain, in turn this can increase your stress and then the cycle repeats.
Even I have succumbed to stress during times of high pressure.  Knowing that this wasn’t the best reaction, I took time out and realized that I needed to do something that would help me cope with the stresses of my life.  I found that adding an activity to my day allowed me to re-group and focus on myself and this helped me to reduce anxiety and stress.

2. Feel more productive in work and life
I always used to think that in school we had recess to give the teacher five minutes of peace but the real reason is much more interesting. Studies have found that after activity our brains are more active and this makes it easier for us to learn and retain information. You may not be in school any more, but taking a brief recess for activity, especially when you feel drained, may improve your focus and make you more productive. Feeling that you’re more productive is a great way to beat stress!

3. Positive lifestyle attracts positive people
When you make a conscious effort to improve yourself through becoming more active, your confidence gets a boost.  Even better, your new positive approach can convince those around you to also make a positive change.  This is especially true if you decide to take a class or join a gym.
Who knew that by improving yourself you'd have the potential to improve others too?

4. Increase your happiness
Who doesn’t want to be happier? Being active promotes the release of endorphins in your body similar to those that are released when we eat foods such as chocolate.  I’d much rather get my happy endorphins from activity because it's long lasting.  When you eat unbalanced sugary delights, your happy vibe is short lived and is quickly followed by a not-so-happy energy drop.
What goes up must come down and if you constantly spike your blood sugar in this way, you'll find it hard to balance your mood. Instead, try involving yourself in a healthy activity as this may make you happier because you'll have more energy and your mood will be stable.

***

Activity really is good for everyone.  Think of these four life-changing benefits of exercise as routes to happiness. Less stress makes you happier, being alert and more productive makes you happier and happy people attract positive happy people.

Curried Cauliflower

This dish is filled with tender cauliflower, nutrient-dense spinach, sweet pickled pimento peppers, and plump garbanzo beans all swimming in a creamy, dreamy curry sauce. With a flavor this deep and satisfying, you may forget that it's filled with all wholesome ingredients. Enjoy!

Courtesy of RealHealthyRecipes.com

Servings: 16

Here’s what you need

• 2 heads cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 Tablespoon garlic, minced
• 3 Tablespoons curry powder
• 1 (15oz) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 5 oz bag of fresh baby spinach
• 1 (13.66oz) can coconut milk, full fat
• ½ cup pickled sweet pimento peppers, chopped
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the cauliflower florets and boil for 8 minutes, until fork tender. Drain and set aside. Wipe out the pot.
2. Return the pot to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, onion and garlic. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the curry powder and cauliflower florets and continue to cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add the garbanzo beans, chicken broth, spinach, coconut milk, pimentos, lime juice, salt and red pepper flakes. Mix well and reduce to low heat, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Enjoy!

Nutritional Analysis

One serving equals: 185 calories, 8g fat, 17g carbohydrate, 4gg sugar, 169mg sodium, 7g fiber, and 8g protein.

Spring Break is right around the corner. Are you struggling to get into shape, so you can look and feel great on your vacation? We've helped hundreds of Men and Women in Valparaiso get in shape in 30 minutes a day, without going on a diet or having to give up their social life. Let us help make this your best Spring Break ever!

Click Here to Register

Program starts Monday, March 5th.

Call For Your Free Body Transformation Analysis 

(219)-548-3480

Pumpstrainingandpilates@gmail.com

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Monthly Client Spotlight!

SPOTLIGHT ON……  Nicole Blaschke!

February 2018

It’s Not Just About the Weight

My journey to fitness is 6 months in the making. Before this I had countless "failed" attempts to regain control; take my life back, get off medicine, be more active, eat healthier, and make better choices. WOW!!! That seems so overwhelming to read those words back to myself. So many of us know the steps and what it takes but still we continue to read numerous articles, pin way too many Pinterest diets, exercises and ways to plan for our fitness success but in the end we still choose to live the same way. Living the same way I had for the past 20 years. Man how time flies!!!! Looking back I see all the times I swore this time would be different and this would be the time the change would stick only to find weeks later and often times only days later, myself eating to numb the pain of another failure. Hi my name is Nicole. I'm 38, a wife, a mother, and in the process of being a healed emotional eater. 

The sting of failure, the fear of success dictated my life until May of 2017 when a switch was flipped. From May to July my fitness journey had nothing to do with physical fitness and everything to do with mental fitness. We talk ourselves out of so much in life and more quickly than we even realize. These 2 months were a reconditioning of the mind. Speaking words of encouragement and worthiness. All the things we say to our best friends, family and co-workers but never to ourselves. We are our own worst critics. We beat ourselves up. We are relentless and unforgiving. And ultimately ruin our chance of breaking the cycle without even being fully aware of the patterns. I knew if there was any chance of breaking the chains of emotional eating, this had to be addressed head on. The process was difficult, gut wrenching, empowering and very possible all at the same time. This “time” would end up being the best foundation and choice I could've made to prior to coming to Pumps Fitness. 

July 2017 I began working out with Ian. As any mom, I had guilt taking that time for myself, spending that money on myself. Until I realized I too was an investment! Taking that next step in my fitness journey was just as much about my kids, my husband, family, and friends as it was for me. It was the first time I made my health a priority. As I continue my journey I cannot say enough about the Pumps Fitness family and the unconditional support I have received and the healthy environment to process the raw and real emotion that comes with shedding not just the weight but also the baggage of the past that got me to where I was. I have achieved goals within the last 7 months that are beyond anything I could have imagined. 

Through all of this I've learned this journey is a mind set…an intentional choice. A mindset that must be in place from the moment you wake up, until the moment you close your eyes. We are truly remarkable beings. We are more capable of overcoming the challenges of life, our childhood, our past, and make it through the other side better for all of it.  What we see as a weakness in ourselves will become our strength when we accept and realize that those weaknesses do not define us, but actually serve a powerful purpose in fueling each of us to be better. Anything is possible!

Trainer Spotlight!

SPOTLIGHT ON……  LaDonna Trapp!

February 2018!!

WELCOMING OUR NEWEST TRAINER!

I have been involved in education for most of my life, including acquiring a Bachelors degree majoring in Psychology at Valparaiso University while being a wife, mom and full time employee. My employment has most always revolved around education.

I had always wanted to learn what a Personal Trainer could do for me so when I came to Pumps Fitness and experienced a great work out with enthusiasm and a smile, dropping inches and pounds, I was convinced.  Education in wellness/fitness is the wise choice for me.

 As a Certified Trainer through the National Association of Sports Medicine, also holding an AFAA certificate in Metabolic training, and soon to be earned Certificate in Exercise Design For Seniors, my goal is to help individuals realize they can do it! There is an exercise program for everyone. My desire for my clients, is to give them a place where they can zone into a little “healthy me time” with no distractions and a little specialized attention.  

When our daughter was just a little girl she asked me, “Mommy, how old will you get to be?”  I told her not to worry, Mommy would live to be 100, and I meant it, to the best of my ability. Currently, the fastest growing age group in America is the 90+ age group. What if you become part of that age group? If so, are you going to get there to the best of your ability?

Will you invest in getting well or in being well? Imagine- being at the best of your abilities, so you can live well.   I choose being well, at the best of my ability.

                                                                                   

La Donna Trapp

NASM Certified Personal Trainer

AFAA Certificate Metabolic Training

MONTHLY CLIENT SPOTLIGHT!!

SPOTLIGHT ON……  Kira Geiss!

November 2017!!

The story is oh so familiar. . . it may be your story.  “I am too busy to work out!”  We all justify why we don’t work out, but the reality is if we don’t make time for ourselves and our health, we fall apart and then cannot support our family, friends or succeed in our goals.  Like all of YOU I am busy, my name is Kira Geiss and I am the Director of Finance and Chief Compliance Officer for a Dental Manufacturer.  Several years ago, I started a not-for-profit preschool (The Field Station Cooperative) with several other mom’s and 12 years later I am still their Director of Finance.  Additionally, I have been involved in a variety of other church and community activities.  Yes, just like YOU, I am busy. 

In high school, college and early in my career I was in great shape.  I got married, had kids and then got back in shape for a bit.  Then I began eating all the kid’s leftovers.  The words of my parents ringing in my head, “waste not, want not”.  So I was “busy”, eating leftovers, began to grow, lose muscle tone, and purchase larger sizes.  I started having a lot of back pain.  In my late 40’s, I participated in a Mud-a-thon with my daughter and began running a little to try to get back in shape.  I started to feel a little better, but after a few years, still did not see any real results.  It is not clear what lead to my friend Dale Huyvaert’ s suggestion for me to go with him to his trainer.  Maybe it was my complaints about lack of results, hearing grumbles about my stress level, noticing my workload, determining it was time for me to have life outside the office or the impending implosion/explosion.  Regardless of the reason, I met Ian. 

After my first work out I literally almost fainted.  I realized it was time to get serious.  In a conversation with my in-laws I found out they had both trained with Ian at one point and my father-in-law still did.  They shared Ian’s amazing recover story.  Reality hit. A recipe for success was within my grasp, a work out partner (Dale) and a committed trainer (Ian).  Every workout was unique, every muscle was sore, every time I heard “you can do anything for 20, 30, 45, 60 seconds” I thought of the obstacles that Ian overcame and had to push through. 

After about 1 ¾ years, at 50 I am in the best shape I have been in for the past 15 years!  Ian has not only been a trainer, inspiration, work out partner, motivator, but also a sounding board.  Ian is committed to the success of each of his clients.  He works to develop a plan to aide in achievement of our individual goals and commits to his clients.  He fills our bucket with encouragement, support, and a smiling face. 

Thanks to all of you have been in a training sessions with me, you have offered support and inspiration.  Thank you for making the commitment to yourself and eliminating the excuse of being too busy.  Most of all sincere thanks to Dale Huyvaert for being a work out partner and introducing me to Ian, and to Ian for engaging me in unique, challenging work outs.  I look forward to continuing my fitness journey.  It has reduced my stress, given me life outside the office, increased my health and it has literally saved me in so many ways! THANK YOU!!!!!

Embrace Competition & Be A Winner Every Time

Being active is fun and rewarding in itself but adding an element of competition can take you to a whole new level.  If you find yourself needing a new challenge, if your routine is becoming lackluster, or if you want to simply up-your-game, then signing up for a competition might be just what you need!

Whatever your fitness level, there is bound to be something out there that will light up your competitive spirit.  Obviously, as a runner my thoughts always go to running first, but you can find a way to set yourself a challenge in any type of sport or activity.  Maybe you could challenge a family member to a bike race, take part in a community activity day or join a swim team? I’m going to give examples about running a 5K but my tips can be applied on any type of competition.

I like 5Ks because they can provide a level of competition for all fitness levels.  Maybe you can just challenge yourself you walk the full five kilometer course (3.1 miles), or – at the other end of the scale – you could try to complete the distance in the fastest time. Whether you are a seasoned athlete, a stay at home parent, or a weekend warrior, setting your sights on walking / jogging / running a 5K is an achievable and rewarding goal.

To make sure you’re ready for competition -
ask yourself these four simple questions. 

1.    Is my training routine the best routine for me?

Training for a competition is not a one size fits all situation. Recognizing your own strengths and weaknesses will enable you to address the areas of your body that need work.

My 5K example: if you are constantly tight in your hamstrings and hip flexors then adding more extensive stretching to your training plan may help you run more freely.

2.    Do I understand how I need my body to perform?

Think about your competition: if you’re covering a long distance than pacing yourself is vital.  If you need a powerful start, then your training needs to focus on those first moments of your challenge.

My 5K example: a 5K race involves using your aerobic system approximately 80% of the time and your anaerobic system approximately 20% of the time. Following a training plan that trains both of these systems effectively can result in a faster time on race day! Training your anaerobic/sprint system will give you a confidence boost too because knowing you can “out-kick” people in the final stretch is a great feeling.

3.    Am I fueled efficiently both before and after a training session? 

When it comes to an endurance type of competition, selecting a good fuel to power your training and eating high quality foods to rebuild and regenerate after your workout is important. Just like a car cannot run without gas, you can not compete well on an empty tank. When you are preparing for a competition, make smart choices and ensure you are consuming “good” carbohydrates and proteins.

My 5K example: the great thing about fueling up for a 5k race and training is that it is very simple and easy. Unlike running a marathon you do not need to overload the night before with carbohydrates and fats because the duration of the race is so short. Carbs and fats are an essential energy source for high intensity aerobic exercise but your body probably has sufficient fat stores to call on if needed, so focus your energy on fueling up on quality carbs before your run.

4.    Is my equipment good for me?

Selecting equipment based on your personal needs can drastically improve your performance.  When you first get started out on an activity, make sure you are comfortable and, if necessary, protected. Then, if you start to take part in an activity regularly, consider investing in equipment that’s tailored for you.  Often specialist equipment can give you an edge, provide extra support or improve your technique.

My 5K example: just because your friend loves to run in one type of shoe, it does not automatically mean they are good for you too! Did you know that excessive pronation (foot instability) can slow each stride down by 0.2 seconds? It may not sound like much but, when you think about how many strides you take in a 5K, that 0.2 seconds can multiply into a few minutes.

Chocolate Mint Protein Shake

Here's a tasty way to get your protein. Blend up one of these Chocolate Mint Protein Shakes whenever you have the urge to eat a bowl of ice cream. It's just as sweet and delicious, while being filled with the protein that your muscles need. Servings: 1 

Here's what you need...

• 1 cup ice
• 1/2 frozen banana
• 1 Tablespoon chopped dark chocolate
• 1 cup water
• 1 scoop high quality chocolate protein powder
• a few drops of organic peppermint flavoring (find next to vanilla extract at the store)
• fresh mint leaves to garnish (optional)

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a blender. Mix until smooth. Enjoy!

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 198 calories, 6g fat, 80mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate, 3g fiber, and 20g protein 

Call For Your Free Body Transformation Analysis 219-548-3480

Pumpstrainigandpilates@gmail.com

Pumpsfitnessinc.com

Cellulite: How To Get Rid Of Thigh Dimples

Do you ever think about cellulite?  Do you have cellulite? Cellulite is the dimple effect seen on mostly on the back of thighs. And if you’re thinking, “what an earth could he possibly know about having cellulite?” Let me fill you in on a little secret: I have never trained with a woman who doesn’t have it.

The dread of revealing all in a tight pair of  leggings, a bathing suit or shorts has many men and women frantically dieting and exercising in an attempt to shape up. But don’t fret, getting active today means you will see some improvement in your external appearance!

What is cellulite?

Many people have heard of the ‘cottage cheese effect’ but let me explain what cellulite really is: it’s simply subcutaneous fat. Fat squished under the surface of your skin. It has a dimpled appearance because bands of collagen fibrous connective tissue sometimes push outwards as fat cells expand. Males and females can suffer cellulite on their buttocks, thighs, and tummy – although more women experience the phenomenon. And, no, having cellulite is not a sign that you are necessarily unhealthily fat – most people now recognize that cellulite is caused by genetics (and bad luck) and can appear regardless of weight, age or fitness level.

One of the things that I think makes people horrified by the thought of cellulite is the range of unfortunate names that describe the bumpy appearance: cottage cheese thighs, orange peel skin, chicken skin and bubble legs.  It’s hard to embrace body confidence when you have these descriptive terms running through your mind so, from now on, let’s just accept cellulite as a reality and choose to find the names amusing rather than hurtful.

What’s the best way get rid of cellulite?

This is a hot topic question and, sadly, if you ask most doctors or read the medical research, you will see that it is not possible to get rid of cellulite altogether. A healthy, active lifestyle is your best bet to reduce the appearance of cellulite and, if you couple regular exercise with a good dose of confidence, then you can banish cellulite worries! After all, there’s more to life, right? Having cellulite does not mean you are unhealthy or overweight or undesirable – it means you are human and many humans get cellulite!

My secret weapon against cellulite

Self-confidence and feeling attractive regardless of what you can see in the mirror is the perfect fix for cellulite because confidence is beautiful! The way you carry yourself through life; your posture and your attitude is ultimately what others around you can see.

To help build your confidence, try improving muscle tone in your legs and glutes by following a strength-training and cardio program combined with quality daily nutrition. Personally, being active and healthy makes me feel more positive, and the internal and external benefits of being fit make me feel more confident. Believe me your physical effects your mental, and your mental effects your physical.

***

While I’m busy baring all of my secrets today here’s one more; after having spinal cord surgery and gaining almost thirty pounds I was not very happy when I saw myself in the mirror. I was frustrated by the loss of my  previously toned  and athletic physique. I swore I was going to get my body back and look good in a swimsuit again, because the beach is one of my family’s favorite places! 

I have since proudly built sandcastles and chased my kids around at the beach – while wearing a swimsuit.   Weight gain and cellulite is a reality for many men and women. But with a positive attitude, healthy and active lifestyle you can reduce the appearance of cellulite and lose weight.

I’m confident that if you see me at the beach, you will only notice my energy, smile and love of life because a healthy, active life combined with self-confidence is a beautiful thing.

Chili Spiced Nuts
A warm bowl of these chili spiced nuts make a fantastic appetizer or snack to serve at your holiday function. The spice combo is so good, try not to eat them all before your guests arrive! A jar of these would also make a wonderful hostess gift, free of preservatives or harmful ingredients. Servings: 20 

Here's what you need…

• 1 cup raw pecan halves
• 1 cup raw pepitas
• 1 cup shelled pistachios
• 1 cup raw almonds
• 3 Tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 3 Tablespoons coconut sugar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with coconut oil.
2. In a large bowl combine all of the nuts with the coconut oil. Toss to coat.
3. In another bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Mix well and then sprinkle over the nuts, mixing until fully combined.
4. Spread the nuts over the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, stir, and then bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and toasty.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 168 calories, 14 fat, 78mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate, 3g fiber, and 5g 
protein. 

Call For Your Free Fitness Analysis 219-548-3480

Pumpstrainigandpilates@gmail.com

Pumpsfitnessinc.com

Are you trying to lose baby weight but find that you’re not seeing results despite your best efforts? Sometimes new moms hit a fitness and weight loss plateau and it can feel like you’ll never get back to your pre-baby body. But working smarter not harder can help you see results, so don’t despair.

 I’ve trained many new mommies who want their pre-pregnancy body back. I know it’s hard to drop baby weight and understand new moms need to concentrate on bonding with their baby. I also believe that eating right and snatching a few moments to exercise can help new moms feel more positive, reduce stress and rebuild body confidence.

Any new mom’s focus will be on developing a baby routine but it’s important to carve out time for yourself too. Otherwise as your baby reaches each milestone, you may find that you aren’t reaching your goals. With all your attention on your baby, it’s easy to neglect yourself and that can lead to you losing confidence.

I’m a positive person and I want you to be confident too!  So here are my tried and tested tips to make sure that you new moms can overcome any fitness plateau and continue to build your strength and stamina.  Whether you want more energy or would simply love to fit back into your favorite jeans, try to apply these ideas in your life.

Four ‘new mom tips’ to kickstart your fitness routine:

• Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes, five days a week and split up your workouts so that three focus on and two are strength based.
• Mix up your workouts and vary your routine. If you follow the exact same workout plan every time then your body will adapt and you’ll stop seeing results.
• Make sure you’re exercising effectively so you can perform common exercises correctly ( a personal trainer can help with that).
• Once a routine becomes easy then pick up the pace – you need to keep challenging yourself.

Many people find that the effort they put into exercising drops off over time, so try these extra tips to stay motivated:

• Add some resistance training to help build lean body mass as this will help your fitness plan be more effective.
• If you find cardio boring then choose to add some fun: pick your favorite music or train with a friend
• Try High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)and vary your routine.

When you hit a fitness or weight loss plateau it’s time to re-address your plan and ensure it is balanced to meet your core needs and help you to achieve your goals. Remember, getting back to a level of fitness and body confidence you are happy with is not a race, so take it one day at a time.

Having a baby (or babies) changes your body in many ways and it is important to understand that you need to listen to your body. Get adequate rest and don’t stress out about your baby weight! Stress can sabotage your plan, so relax and have fun being active.

Chicken and Quinoa Dinner

Here is a simple, wholesome meal that is ready in 30 minutes – perfect for busy weekday dinners. There’s no reason to hit the take-out line when you have this quick and delicious recipe on hand. Eating simple, wholesome meals like this and exercising regularly will get you to your goal weight.  Servings: 2 

Here’s what you need…

• 1 cups cooked quinoa
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 ear of corn, kernels cut from cob
• Handful of asparagus stalks, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 2 cups baked chicken breast, cut into small cubes
• 1 can of organic black beans, drained and rinsed
• splash of lemon juice
• splash of lime juice
• dash of salt and pepper
• splash of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1. Cook the quinoa and set aside. Place a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the oil, onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes. Add the bell peppers, corn and asparagus, cook until the vegetables are tender. Add the chicken and beans, cook for another 10 minutes, adding the rest of the ingredients.
2. Place a serving of quinoa on each plate and top it with the vegetable mix.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 293 calories, 5g fat, 32g carbohydrate, 4.6g fiber, and 29.4g protein.  

CALL FOR YOUR FREE FITNESS CONSULTATION

219-548-3480
Pumpstrainingandpilates@gmail.com

Pumpsfitnessinc.com