exercises for best results

lunge with arm extension and twist.  This can be done stationary or with a forward / back motion.  Knees will let you know what is best.  This is just one of many combination exercises for overall body strength and calorie burn.

Tone abs fast!

Here’s a great way to tone your abs fast.  Take an exercise that’s been around forever and slow it down.  The bicycle (alternating elbow to knee lying on back).   Start by lying on your back, with both knees pulled to chest.  With hands behind your head, curl up head, neck and shoulders slightly off the floor or mat.  Begin extending right leg bringing right elbow toward left knee.  Do this in a 3 count.  Return right leg in a 3 count.  Then extend left leg in a 3 count turning left elbow toward right knee.  Return left leg in a 3 count.  Continue this movement for 20 reps.

Stay Motivated

Here are some ways to stay motivated as you work toward your fitness goals this year. 

1.  Tell someone about what you are trying to do / once you tell someone, you are committed to following through

2.  If you are not seeing the results on the treadmill, try varying the speed and incline (3 minutes fast at low incline followed by 3 minutes slower at higher incline).  This helps to increase metabolism and burn more calories.  This method also works on the cross training machines and bikes.

3.  Hire a trainer for a couple of sessions to get fresh ideas and to make sure you’re doing a workout that best suits your fitness level and goals.

4.  Workout with a friend!  Join a group fitness class or meet at the gym.  (see info about my group sessions for a great way to save $ without sparing a great workout)

Key Weight Loss Tips

Do the math on your quest for weight loss.  In order to lose one pound of fat (1 lb of fat is equal to 3500 calories), you will need to reduce your calories by 500 calories per day.  Keep in mind, you need to still eat enough calories to maintain organ function.  So, how about this:  eat 1500 calories per day via a balanced diet of lean protein and lots of vegetables, then get on the cardio machine or hit the road for a walk.