Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts

Monday, January 22, 2018

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

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

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!!!!!

Sunday, July 30, 2017

If you are exercising outside in the summer....you need to read this!

Strategies for Training in the Heat

Keeping athletes and clients performing at their peak while also avoiding heat-related illnesses takes preparation and planning. Bodies need time to adapt to the increased physiological demands of training in warm environments. But even with preparation and planning, heat illnesses can and still do occur.

Heat illnesses generally affect those with lower levels of fitness. More fit individuals are typically better able to tolerate exercising in the heat, acclimate quicker, and sweat more. To help yourself meet the demands of training in the heat, acclimate yourself to the warmer environment over a 10 to 14 day period, balancing the length of training sessions with intensity (i.e., long duration with a low intensity, or short duration with a moderate intensity). Adequate hydration is another key component to preventing heat illnesses, as inadequate hydration decreases the body’s sweat rate. Replace fluids lost to sweat and urination, and take hydration breaks during training or exercise. (Contrary to Coach Boone’s words in the iconic football movie “Remember the Titans”, water is not for cowards nor does it make you weak.)

Evaporation of sweat is the body’s key mechanism for staying cool. Humidity decreases the rate of sweat evaporation, as can limiting the skin’s exposure when wearing long sleeves or long pants. If possible, reduce the amount of gear and clothing worn, especially during the acclimation period. Selecting moisture wicking fabrics will speed the rate of evaporation over less permeable materials such as cotton. Also attempt to schedule training or exercise during the cooler times of the day, either in the early morning or early evening, or move into climate controlled indoor venues when available.

Heat can also affect children differently, since they have immature thermoregulatory systems, including both a delayed response and limited ability to sweat. They may require a longer timeline to acclimate, incorporation of more rest breaks, extended cool-downs, and frequent reminders to hydrate
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Cajun Veggie Chips

Here's a nutritious way to enjoy some crunchy, tasty chips. By thinly slicing and baking vegetables, you're able to get your chip fix without tanking your fitness results. Make a large batch on the weekend and portion your veggie chips out into ziplock bags for the week. Servings: 4 


Here's what you need:
  • 2 lbs of root vegetables, thinly sliced (sweet potato, parsnips, beets or carrots)
  • Sea salt
  • Cajun spice
  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. 
  2. Thinly slice the root vegetables with a mandoline slicer, to 1/8 inch thickness. Toss the sliced veggies with a sprinkle of sea salt and Cajun spice. 
  3. Spread the sliced veggies over the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, or until crispy. Enjoy!
Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 139 calories, 0g fat, 287mg sodium, 22g carbs, 8g fiber, and 3g protein 

CALL FOR YOUR FREE FITNESS CONSULTATION

219-548-3480
Pumpstrainingandpilates@gmail.com

Sunday, April 2, 2017

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT...APRIL 2017!

SPOTLIGHT ON……  Judy Relinski!

April 2017!!



My name is Judy Relinski. I have been with Pumps Fitness for a total of a year.  Prior to joining Pumps Fitness I had under went several abdominal surgeries the last one being the worst. My emotional and physical states were by far at their worst.  After searching the internet for a fitness studio that could help me I came across Pumps Fitness.  I called and made an appointment with Ian and Michelle. They talked with me about my issues and suggested I try Pilates Reformer with Mary as my personal trainer.  This was a total relief for me that someone would be able to help me.

Mary is such a special person to me.  After being with her for sometime now, she has guided me to better body position, strength, tons of knowledge about my body and a much better emotional state. I can honestly say that my decision to join Pumps Fitness was the smartest decision I made for myself. It is hard work but the benefit of having a  trainer like Mary watching, guiding and challenging me has been a great experience.

For me staying fit is a big commitment and hard work, but Mary has made this journey a great one. I would recommend Pumps Fitness to anyone.

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

MONTHLY CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT ON……  Dale Huyvaert!

February 2017!!


My name is Dale Huyvaert and I have been a member of the Valparaiso community since 1989. 

I had the good fortune of meeting Ian a few years ago while he was training a small group of employees at Pines Village Retirement Community.  At the time, I did not view it as good fortune since I was not looking to start working out with a trainer.  I was just filling in one night when the group was short participants.  Showing up for that session has ended up being an excellent decision for my overall health.
Throughout my life, I had always been actively involved in sports and worked out by myself at home.  I assumed I was in good shape.  The first workout with Ian showed me that I was sadly mistaken.  The pain in my legs the next few days after that session at Pines Village was clearly a wake-up call.  I was nowhere near being in good shape, especially in my lower body.  My workout routine at home was just that, routine. 

I have been working out with Ian two times per week for the past few years and just signed up for three workouts per week under Pump’s new program.  The variety that Ian puts into each of his workouts and the small group format have been just what I need.  Plus, I have had the chance to meet a lot of very nice people at Pump’s and it is fun to watch them achieve goals and milestones (and share my pain J). 
I turned 50 in 2016 and feel like I am in the best overall shape that I have been in my life thanks to Ian, but I still have a lot of room to improve.  While I may be able to do a mean thirty seconds on the ropes, a round of heels to the heaven or a pike push-up is still a humbling experience.  That is ok.  With Ian’s help, I will continue to get a little stronger with each workout.

That is my story for now.  I look forward to working out with many of you in the future and hearing those words we all love to hear at the end of a good workout, DONE and DONE! 

Thanks Ian.               

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Client Spotlight

SPOTLIGHT ON…… Shaun Olsen!
January 2017!!



My name is Shaun T. Olsen and you may know me, or you may know someone very like ‘me.’  I was the person who would run, but never really did it just to do it because it made me tired.  I was also the person who would never really lift weights because it made ‘my arms or legs hurt.’  However, if you told me to go play a soccer game or something, I could run for miles and not even notice it.  I know, I’m strange.

When I was younger, I was fairly active and I participated in a few sports and played the trombone in band and orchestras.  While I have struggled with weight over the years, the small level of activity helped keep me, somewhat, in shape.  However, as I got older and participated in less physical things, I started to take on a new ‘shape'.

Over the years, I tried to do some things to work on it. I’ve bought elliptical machines, rowers, a bow flex; I’ve tried diets; signed up for classes, etc... While I’ve gotten some benefit out of them, nothing has really gotten me over the hump.  Throughout all this, no matter what I did or how much I hated getting clothes at what I called ‘the FatMan Store,’ I didn’t know what to do and I just kind of gave up and started to get around 300 pounds.
Even after all the research and failed attempts at change, I never even realized that I simply didn't have the knowledge of how to really make the change.  Not too long ago though, I received an e-mail from Ian that said he was starting up a new class called the 14-day Fat Furnace. I thought I’d give it a go since I definitely had some fat to furnace.

The fat furnace was just under two months ago now, and I’ve worked with Ian since roughly 2 or 3 times a week since.  In that short amount of time, I’ve lost some weight, I feel much better, my blood pressure is consistently normal without a hint of hypertension, and my resting heart rate has gone from the medically polite version of not good to excellent.  Of course, those are the side benefits.  The big benefit is that I’ve gone down two pants sizes and a shirt size, so I got to go clothes shopping in ‘regular’ stores instead of ‘the FatMan Store!’ 
Normally at this point of starting something new I’d be frustrated by the lack of results and burned out, or close to it.  The difference now is I really like working out.  The frustration is realizing that I didn’t have to figure things out all on my own.  Just like learning a skill or trade, it is much quicker and less frustrating to have someone teach you the how and give you some hints to continue.  Working out with Ian has helped me move a huge distance in a surprisingly small amount of time. 

I am very thankful that Ian thought to send me that e-mail about the fat furnace.  If you know someone like the ‘old me,’ encourage them to find Ian, or their own ‘Ian,’ to help them move forward.  They will be immensely thankful for it!  

Sunday, September 18, 2016

Things That Happen When You Get Fit

Physical fitness. It’s a goal, a lifestyle, a surefire way to set yourself apart from the legions of people who are too lazy or scared to make the changes necessary to gain physical fitness. If you happen to be one of the people who have yet to truly commit to physical fitness, understanding the perks of physical fitness may help you dig in and go for becoming the best version of you, starting today.

What can you expect from your life as a fit person? Here are nine things you’ll go through when you turn the corner on physical fitness.

Thing 1: You’ll Want More

Exercise newbies have a hard time believing it, but there will come a time when you crave exercise. It may not be during those first few days or weeks, but once your body becomes fit and begins to perform the way it was built to perform, you’ll hunger to hit the gym, and you’ll give it your all once you’re there. Miss a day in the gym? You’ll feel guilty and lazy enough to never miss again!

Thing 2: Bedtime Will Be Better

This one doesn’t involve your sex life (though becoming fit will improve that as well). Rather, it’s about your sudden ability to hit the hay, fall asleep quickly, and stay asleep all night long. Just because you’re fit!

Thing 3: Confidence Becomes You

When you’re not fit, it’s impossible to feel your best. Not being physically fit leaves you feeling…well, frumpy. Get fit and watch your self-image skyrocket. Along with it, your confidence. Your confidence won’t necessarily push you into cockiness, but it will make you more enjoyable to be around, as it’s awkward to be around people who are down on themselves.

Thing 4: You Eat Well

Just as being fit makes you want to get in the gym, it also inspires you to want to eat well. After all, you spent all that time eating the right things to get fit. The last thing you want to do is throw it all in the trash just for the passing and momentary pleasures of two slices of pecan pie.

Thing 5: Showers Feel Better

Contrary to popular belief, sitting at a desk all day every day doesn’t get you dirty enough to take a shower. On the contrary, when you’re living the fit lifestyle, you’re in the gym regularly, allowing sweat to cover every pore of your body. After a hard day at the gym, your shower feels magical, because you actually deserve it!

Thing 6: Heavy Isn’t Heavy

Spend enough time not being fit and you may be surprised that fit folks can deal with things in life that require strength. Whether it involves carrying a baby through the grocery store, picking up a few bags of groceries, moving a pile of bricks from your truck bed to your garden, or just getting up the stairs, fitness enables you to do it with ease.

Thing 7: Your Body Functions Improve

Get fit and your heart will work more efficiently. You know that. But getting fit will get your other body systems in line also. Whether you’ve been struggling to think clearly on your feet, you’ve been plagued with constipation, or you’re always out of breath, getting fit can remedy all these issues and more.

Thing 8: You’ll Go Shopping

You probably know people who have to upgrade their closets every few years to accommodate their ever-growing bellies. Not you. When you go fit for life, you’ll have to go shopping, but only because your waist has slimmed up and your muscles have tightened up and are now situated where they belong.

Thing 9: You Won’t Fear Sore

At one point in time, being sore always meant something was wrong. When you get fit, being sore is something that you welcome. After all, you know the soreness means you’re working your body in new ways that will only improve your physical fitness. If it’s a bad sore, you’ll know that also because, well, fit people know their bodies.

Now is the perfect time to get started on an exercise program that will get you into the best shape of your life. What are you waiting for? Being fit feels too good for you to miss out on. Call or email us today!

Got Stress? Get Moving!
Stressed out? Exercise is a simple solution to get you feeling good fast.

This is because every time you exercise your body increases its production of endorphins, which are responsible for that feel-good euphoria you get after a great workout or while chomping down on a piece of chocolate.

However, before you turn to chocolate and skip the gym, remember the end result of each and choose which one will help you reduce stress in the long run. (Hint: It’s not the chocolate!)

From the desk of John Hall Studios
Best Chicken Salad Recipe

Most chicken salad recipes contain loads of mayonnaise or dairy products, but not this one. A simple can of coconut milk makes this salad deliciously creamy while roasted chiles, fresh cilantro, sweet fruit and crunchy pecans really bring the flavor. Serve on large butter lettuce leaves.


Servings: 8

Here’s what you need…

For the Creamy Coconut Dressing:
•              1 (14oz) can coconut milk, full fat
•              ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
•              1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
•              1 Tablespoon coconut oil, melted
•              ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
•              lemon zest (all you can get from one small lemon)
•              1 teaspoon lemon juice
•              dash salt
•              dash pepper
For the Salad:
•              1 cup celery, finely chopped
•              1 cup red grapes, halved
•              ½ cup pecans, chopped
•              1 apple, finely chopped
•              4oz can mild chopped green chiles
•              1 lb roasted chicken, chopped
1              For the Creamy Coconut Dressing: Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl. Whisk well and then set in the fridge to chill while you prepare the salad.
2              For the Salad: Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl. Add the creamy coconut dressing and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with large lettuce leaves and Dijon mustard.


Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 286 calories, 20g fat, 80mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, and 19g protein

Call today for a consultation and assessment!

Phone: 219-548-3480

Wednesday, June 1, 2016

SPOTLIGHT ON……  Kori Howard!

June 2016!!


                                     BEFORE                                 AFTER


Kori is a teenager who resides in Valparaiso with her family.  The following are comments from her biggest fan; her mother!

            “After years of getting little to no physical therapy for a mobility issue, we finally decided to try something different.  After researching for a month, looking at credentials and testimonials of different places in NW Indiana, Pumps Fitness was chosen.  I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was hoping that Kori would build enough strength in her legs so that she could run normally and become stable enough to walk without being clumsy.

Ian has far exceeded my expectations!  Kori now runs normally and can pass her PT tests.  The turning point for me was when I saw her jumping rope.  I just cried.  She has never been coordinated enough to do that!  This achievement came after only a few months of coming twice a week. 

Ian has been so pleasant and fun for my daughter.  She loves coming here and being challenged. 

The best and most unexpected benefit of all has been that Kori has lost almost 40 pounds and now we have to buy all new clothes because they are all falling off of her.  What a wonderful problem to have!

Thank you for everything!”

Kathy (Kori’s Mom)


Sunday, May 1, 2016

Client Spotlight!!

SPOTLIGHT ON……  Ashley Wells!

May 2016!!


My name is Ashley Wells and I’m 25 years old. I moved to Valparaiso almost a year ago from Wisconsin to start a new job and be with my soon-to-be husband Bryan. I have always been an active individual until the weight of my college courses got the best of me. I struggled with stress and anxiety and started to look down on how I looked. To remain active I have joined gyms like Anytime Fitness and did the occasional yoga classes in college but trying to obtain a nursing degree at the time can make it hard to be motivated for anything else.

A couple months after moving Valparaiso a co-worker referred me to PUMPS where I soon met Ian. I told him it wasn’t a matter of me not being able to do it by myself to lose weight or workout in general but to continue to be motivated and stay committed. I wanted to workout right and focus on being healthy. As a nurse working all kinds of hours and for 16+ at a time it can be hard to maintain a well-balanced diet let alone a workout schedule.

Beginning to train with Ian was tough. I didn’t know what to expect and knew I would be pushed to all kinds of limits. I have never lifted weights and cardio is my worst enemy but the small results I see are worth it. I still get frustrated not seeing the results right away but it takes time and the slow changes are happening. I have only been with PUMPS for 8 months and I have been able to gain muscle, lose inches, and manage my stress. I still have a long way to go but I joined PUMPS to focus on my health and get me to a better and happier place.

I forget to treat my body well and I have set a goal to workout 3 times a week with Ian and will continue to do so to improve my overall health. I recently obtained my Masters so my stress levels were not helping to staying motivated but I never gave up and Ian would not let me. He has been a great support aside from my family and loved ones and I look forward to continuing to achieve my goals. I hope to transform myself physically and mentally by next year. My goal is to attend a Yoga or Pilates class at PUMPS and improve on workout routines so I am able to be committed on the days I am not working out with Ian.