Do I have more weight than I did before children? Yes.  Are there areas I’d like to tone and firm? Absolutely.  But overall, I have enough confidence not to hide behind a cover-up.  It helps that a Lands’ End Swim Expert assisted in helping me find a swimsuit that fits!  My body’s proportions aren’t exactly to scale when it comes to tops and bottoms, so I chose a swimsuit from the brand’s SwimMates collection. The bikinis and camis offer true bra sizing for the appropriate fit and women can select from two types of coverage with regards to bottoms.  If you prefer a bit more coverage, Lands’ End offers skirts and shorts. The “4 Piece Bikini” offers a layered look and includes a bikini top, cami, bottoms, and skirt or shorts and everything was designed to swim in.  A proper fitting swimsuit with the amount of coverage a woman desires can make a huge difference in boosting a woman’s confidence about wearing a swimsuit, regardless of her shape and size.

National Swimsuit Confidence Week was initiated last year to help educate and inspire women to embrace their confidence and beauty for an enjoyable summer.  Spring is always deemed that unofficial season where women are to get in shape in preparation for swimsuit season.  While I believe fitness and health are vital to a woman’s beauty and confidence, I don’t think that she should have to hide or abstain from wearing a swimsuit simply because she’s still working on attaining her goals for fitness and beauty.  I am honored to be one of the 100 bloggers selected to proudly show off their swimsuit confidence!  Additionally, 21 writers from Curvy Girl and 20 breast cancer survivors from Beyond the Boobie Trap will be featured on the Lands’ End Facebook page in swimsuits.

Do you have swimsuit confidence?

No compensation was received for this post.  I was provided with a swimsuit from Lands’ End as part of my participation in this campaign.  

Macy’s, one of my favorite go-to department stores for clothing, shoes, accessories, and makeup, released several new items in their women’s activewear and swimwear departments for 2012.  Since I’ll be participating in National Swimsuit Confidence Week, I decided to select an outfit from their activewear department.

Having shopped at the chic and moderately upscale department store for many many years, I know that only the most reputable brands have a presence throughout the store.  Since fashion is just as important as function, I opted for a matching white, crewneck shirt paired with lightweight bootcut pants.  When I think of a line of activewear that is flattering and performs well, Nike comes to mind, which is one of the reasons I selected these two items.

The tee features Dri-Fit fabric which was designed to keep the wearer cool and dry as it wicks away moisture.  It also offers UV protection for those who prefer to exercise outdoors.  The Jersey Bootcut pants are lightweight, stylish, and comfortable, and I definitely feel like I could go to the grocery store or run errands without having to change.

Macy’s assortment of activewear for women is expansive and includes pieces from reputable brands such as Champion, Nike, Puma, and The North Face.  Their online store is easy to navigate and shoppers can search by brand, apparel type, size, color, and price.  For more information, just visit their website.

No compensation was received for this post. The items received for review were provided by GigaSavvy.

It was all so mysterious…the compelling invite, written to include just enough information to draw you in…the clues (aka the workout gear) and instructions (invitation) that were sent (as in mailed) just prior to the event.  Even as I approached The Montalban in Los Angeles, I still didn’t exactly know what I’d be doing for six whole hours. All I really knew was that Nike recently released their brand new fitness motivator, the Nike+ Fuelband, last week and it’s been selling out in record time.

After a brief intro and some appetizers, we headed over to Paramount Studios to do this:

Stay tuned for more information and details regarding Nike+ Fuelband

No compensation was received for this post.  Fitness products provided.

About a week and a half ago, I did some serious sweating cardiovascular fitness and strength training at Barry’s Bootcamp.  In my 30+ years, I’ve taken countless fitness classes…but none like this one.  Is there any exercise regime you’re doing right now that will result in burning as many as 1000 calories in an hour?

For the last fourteen years, Barry’s Bootcamp has been delivering “The Best Workout in the World.” Much like boot camp, characterized by discipline and structure, this one hour class combines interval cardiovascular routines on the treadmill with strength training using free weights.  What’s interesting about the workouts is that they actually change each day to help achieve optimal results.   If you were to attend a class each day, you’d work different parts of your body, which is something that is quite unique and sets the workout apart from others. The workouts can vary from two 30 minute segments to four 15 minute segments and this constant transition between cardiovascular and strength training is why it’s effective in helping to improve the cardiovascular system resulting in weight loss and muscle strength.

I took a one hour class, and to be honest, it was hard!  I’m not at my optimal fitness level, however, I do work out so I was a bit surprised at how intense the class was. But I LOVED the burn I felt in my abs the next day and I actually felt really good after the class…energized.  The class is meant to be challenging but not impossible, and much like any workout, you can and should tailor it to your fitness level. If you prefer to walk versus run, you should.  You can also opt for lighter weights if necessary.  The workout can definitely be adapted to your personal and current level of fitness and there is much room to advance and see results.

The class I attended just happened to be led by celebrity trainer Derek Degrazio, who’s helped people like Britney Spears achieve real results.  He was energetic, motivating, but serious about helping each of us achieve results…even in just one class.

At present, you’ll find classes in select cities across the globe including Los Angeles, Orange County (Irvine), San Diego, New York City, Nashville, London, and Bergen, Norway. For information regarding class times and prices, just visit Barry’s Bootcamp.

No compensation was received for this post. I was invited to sweat it out with Derek Degrazio at Barry’s Bootcamp.

The start of the new year brings hope and possibility. It’s the time of year when people are most apt to make resolutions, and fitness and health typically top those lists. In fact, if you’re thinking about weight loss, fitness, and healthy living, the start of the new year is the ideal time to begin that journey.

January 2nd has been named National Weigh-In Day by Special K, and the brand is hoping to help women re-think their approach and discussions surrounding weight loss. Rather than focusing on a number, which can often be frustrating and disheartening for women, the brand is encouraging women to focus on the emotional gains they’ll realize when they’ve achieved their fitness and weight loss goals.

My word? Gusto!

In select cities across the country, women publicly “weighed-in” on weight loss. But rather than displaying a number, the scales set up displayed positive words depicting the emotional benefits that can be gained as a result of weight loss. Can you imagine how freeing that would be if every scale displayed an encouraging word as opposed to a number?

Weighing in on weight loss

Dieting is difficult, frustrating, and typically unsuccessful, particularly if a woman is attempting to do it on her own. I need accountability and encouragement from other women to help me stay on track or come Spring, I’m so far off track that attempting to regroup becomes less and less attainable.  I also want and need a plan that offers flexibility and personalization so that I can tailor it to my lifestyle and food preferences.

Vivienne Edwards from Special K

Many may not know that Special K offers a free, online weight management plan. For the first time since the Special K Challenge launched, 9 years ago, the plan is now customizable to your lifestyle, preferences, and goals. Whether you’re a working mom on the go who may have to eat a few meals out, a foodie who likes to experiment with the finer foods in life, or a woman who’s given up animal products, there is likely a plan for you.

The challenge itself is a way to kick start your weight loss goals, as opposed to a permanent weight loss plan. The premise is that one would replace two meals with Special K meals and snacks, plus a conventional meal of choice.  Fruits, vegetables, and beverages are “free” foods that can be consumed without any limits. Once the 2 week challenge has been completed, women can continue to maintain their weight through the plan which offers daily menus and shopping lists. With their mobile app, the plan can be accessed on-the-go. Additionally, the online plan offers a place for women to journal, which for many is very important to the process of weight loss. Writing down goals, successes, struggles, thoughts, and emotions can be highly motivational and cathartic.  Lastly, the site integrates a community-type feature where participants can seek and provide online support to friends and family.

Confidence...What I'll gain when I lose

The holidays are over…2011 is in the past…Let’s begin the new year with a fresh start and a clean slate!  I’m hoping to regain some confidence this year as I work to achieve my weight loss goals. What do you hope to gain once you’ve realized your goals?

 This is a compensated campaign via The Motherhood. However, all opinions expressed remain my own.

I’m less than ten pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight (as in before my 4 year old son was born) and while I’m so proud to have gotten this far, I’ve definitely hit a plateau.  And, of course, my body does not resemble it’s former 20-something self.  I’m not always as consistent with my workout schedule and while I work very hard to eat fresh, natural, healthful foods, I can stray when I’m out, traveling, or simply just busy.

Thanks to Kristen Horler, founder of Baby Boot Camp, I have some tips to share with you on slimming down after baby.

1. Check in!  Be sure you’ve been cleared for physical activity from your physician before beginning any work out program.  While you may be cleared 6-8 weeks postpartum, allow your body time to heal and recover.

2. Breast is best! Just for doing what your body is supposed to, you’ll burn up to 30o-500 calories a day.

3.  Start now! Post-pregnancy weight gain has been linked to obesity.

4. Say “no” to dieting! Rather than “diet” strive to create lifelong, healthy eating habits by consuming well-balanced meals.

5. Get on a routine! New moms may get into the habit of eating erratically, particularly when the baby is up at 3 am. If you wouldn’t eat that bowl of ice cream at 3 am before motherhood, curb the craving.

6. Snack sensibly! Rather than snacking on your toddler’s crackers or your prechooler’s chips, opt for fruits and veggies (and while you’re at it, swap them out for your child as well).

7. Schedule your workouts! Busy schedules make it easy to forego exercise.  Even 15 minute mini-workouts can help improve your mood, help you manage weight, promote sleep, and boost your energy level.

8.  Consume nutrient dense foods! Lean proteins like legumes can help with muscle repair and recovery post workout, calcium keeps bones strong, complex carbohydrates provided extended energy, and Omega-3 fatty acids support a healthy heart and nervous system.

Speaking of nutrition, I have to admit that all too often I’ll pop into my favorite coffeehouse for an energy boost and order a blended drink that’s both filling and calorie-laden.  During the webinar, I was introduced to CalNatural Svelte, a line of all-natural protein shakes which contain 16 grams protein from organic soy milk and 20% of the recommended daily value for fiber.  These naturally-sweetened shakes are dairy, lactose, and gluten-free and can provide sustained energy throughout the day. They’re available in French Vanilla, Chocolate, Spiced Chai, and Cappuccino. Blend it with some ice and you’ve got a smoothie that packs more nutrition than that ice blended drink I’m craving right now.

As I’m learning, it takes time to lose the weight. But I have to be persistent about doing my part.  My daughter is 20 months old and there is no reason why I can’t lose those last 10 pounds.  As a mom, I know that taking care of myself is as important as taking care of my children…for them…for myself.

How have you succeeded with your weight management and fitness goals this year?  I’d love to hear your ideas and tips.

Win It! One of you will win a Post-Pregnancy Slim Down Gift Pack (ARV $500) which will include the following:

1 Wahoo Fitness Run Pack
1 Pair of FILA Toning Pants
1 Case of CalNaturale Svelte shakes
1 CalNaturale Svelte Gym Tote
1 Copy of Kristen Horler’s Book
1 First Baby Boot Camp Class Free Coupon
Goody Workout Headbands

Simply leave your answer to my question above in a comment and you’re entered to win.  Comments will close on August 27th at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. I attended a webinar hosted by CalNaturale and Baby Boot Camp and received information and a gift pack.

Photo Credit: johnnyberg

Photo Credit: cienpies

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Mary E. Congrats!

It’s May…almost halfway through the year…perhaps it’s time for me to think about where I’m at with my weight loss and fitness goals. A few months ago, I was just 10 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight (pre as in before I became pregnant with my almost 4 year old son).  While I am happy with what I’ve achieved, I’ve reached the point in my journey where getting the last few pounds off is difficult.  Traveling and one too many meals out means I’m still 10 pounds from my goal weight.

Photo Credit: Subway

It’s time for me to get back on track.  If you could use a bit of inspiration, join Subway and Leah from Mamavation tomorrow May 10th at 8:00 pm EST/7:00 pm CST/5 pm EST for a Twitter Fitness party.  Some of the issues they’ll talk about include setting and maintaining goals,  overcoming hurdles and how to remain motivated. Since the party will take place during the new episode of The Biggest Loser, you can watch while you tweet!

Here are the details:

When: May 10th, from 8-9pm EST

Where:  On Twitter…just tweet with the hashtag #commit2fit

Who to follow:

@Bookieboo

@Subwayfreshbuzz

@Fitbottomedgirl

@Its_Gail

@CrazyAdventures

What’s a Twitter Party without giveaways?

1. ONE Grand Prize: Virtual Fitness Prize including a Play Station 3 & EA SPORTS Active 2. (one winner)
2. Commitment Kits: Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown DVD, yoga mat, & yoga blocks. (two winners)
3. EA SPORTS Active 2 (4 winners)

You can also visit Subway on Facebook to learn more about their Commit to Fit Sweepstakes for a chance to win $25,000.

Photo Credit: Subway

Win It! Subway recently brought back their Orchard Chicken Salad Sandwich. I have a Subway gift card to give away to one of you to try their new sandwich or any other menu item. Simply leave me a comment with one way you’re committing to stay fit. Comments will close on May 23rd, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

RSVP for the Twitter party over at Mamavation

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. Fitness sample kit provided.

A few weeks ago, I sat in on an online webinar with registered dietitians and personal trainers Lyssie and Tammy Lakatos (aka The Nutrition Twins) who authored the book The Secret To Skinny and serve as the exclusive nutritionists for celebrities and employees at the Rockefeller Center NBC Fitness Center.  During the online webinar, they offered several nutrition tips in conjunction with their partnership with the US Potato Board.

Before I share their tips (which I think are fabulous), I wanted to talk a little bit about potatoes and their role in a healthy diet.  These starchy vegetables are free from cholesterol, fat, and sodium and provide 45% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C and more potassium than a banana.  At just 110 calories,  you can top potatoes with veggies and a protein for a complete meal while still keeping your caloric intake in check.

The US Potato Board has come up with a variety of  new potato recipes.  Here is one of the recipes I’d like to try (think I can make it Vegan?):

Photo Credit: US Potato Board

Quick and Healthy Greek Potato Salad
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds red potatoes
1 cup low-fat 2% Greek yogurt (such as Chobani, FAGE, Oikos or YoPlait)
1/3 cup minced red onion
1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
1/4 cup peeled, chopped cucumber
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup crumbled Feta cheese
Chopped fresh oregano (optional)

Directions
Place whole potatoes (do not poke) into microwave-safe dish. Cover dish. (If covering dish with plastic wrap, poke small hole in plastic). Microwave on high for 10 to 12 minutes depending on strength of microwave. Use oven mitts to remove dish from microwave; carefully remove cover from dish due to steam build-up and let cool. Cut potatoes into bite-size pieces and place in a large bowl with remaining ingredients; stir well to mix. Sprinkle with cheese and oregano. This salad may be served right away, but is best if refrigerated for at least one hour to allow flavors to blend.

So how do The Nutrition Twins manage to keep fit, stay active, and eat healthy? Here are their best tips for a healthy lifestyle:

1.  Always include vegetables in your meal.

Vegetables are packed with nutrients and fill you up without contributing significant fat, calories, or sodium to your diet.  Make it a point to include vegetables at each meal.

Tip:  Include yogurt or cottage cheese and vegetables on your baked potato or serve up a spinach, mushroom, and potato omelet.

2.  Exercise

Physical activity helps blood move through your body, releases endorphins, maintains weight and generally assists in physical and emotional wellness.

Tips:  Do something you enjoy.  Make an appointment for yourself to exercise (particularly in the morning) so it doesn’t get pushed aside. Include cardio and weights since muscle mass is metabolically more active and helps to burn calories.

3.  Include a fibrous carbohydrate and a protein with each meal.  `

The body digests glucose in 1-2 hours.  When you combine a carbohydrate with a protein, you slow down the process of digestion and boost energy levels.

4.  Water

Every process in body needs and uses water. Aim for 9-12 cups of water.

Tip:  Water can come from food and is included in the 9-12 cups.  Put fruit in the water to flavor it.

Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post.  I attended an online webinar and received a gift.

Photo Credit: johnnyberg

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Carrie S. and Debra H. Congrats!

Are you getting 30 minutes of moderately intense physical activity in on most days of the week? If the answer is no, you’re not alone.  Whether you’re a women who works full-time outside the home, or a mom who works full-time inside the home, finding time to take care of yourself (and your heart) can be challenging.  But the benefits you’ll reap from a regular exercise routine are well-worth it.  I can’t say that I’ve found an easy way to get in 30 minutes each day.  But fitness expert Andrea Riggs has some tips to make it a little easier for you to take care of you!

Andrea’s philosophy is to get body beautiful…to become the best version of yourself rather than aiming to be like someone else or what you perceive to be the ideal woman.  Here are some of her best fitness tips:

Satisfy workout cravings. Working out increases your metabolism and appetite, especially high-intensity interval regimens which are ideal for building lean muscle tissue. Following a workout, strive to consume quality calories such as an 8-ounce glass of 100 percent grapefruit juice and a serving of nuts, to help satisfy your appetite and restore your energy levels.

Get Results. If you’re looking to amp up your fitness routine, adopt a 21-day at-home fitness routine that alternates cardio and strength training to see a noticeable reduction in inches. Start with 20 repetitions of three total body toning exercises (such as kettlebell circuits or even just push-ups and squats) and schedule a brisk daily walk, jog or bike ride. Steadily increase the number of strength training repetitions and the length of cardio every three days.

Sleep if off. Getting adequate amounts of sleep may help regulate your appetite and control food cravings during exercise and at rest.  Try scheduling a 15-minute power nap an hour before a workout to help you feel refreshed and energized.

Work out at work. Incorporating a little bit of physical activity into your workday can go a long way toward keeping you both physically and mentally healthy. Try keeping small squeezable hand weights at your desk and sneak in sets while talking on the phone or checking e-mail.  If you are already on your feet, try doing squats or knee-bends throughout the day to avoid cramping and stiffness in your legs.

Change it up. Alter your fitness routine every couple of weeks to get the most out of your sweat sessions. Your body adapts to familiar activities, so an unchanging workout becomes less challenging as time goes on. Keep things fresh by alternating the treadmill with a bike ride outside or a spin class at the gym. Varying your workout will ensure that you are exercising all of your muscles.

Win It! Two of you will win a fitness gift bag! Simply leave me a comment with one way you strive to get in physical activity.  Comments will close on March 25th, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.  US Residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. Fitness tips and giveaway items were supplied by the company.

Last fall, I was introduced to The Girls, a fitness brand offering fashionable active wear for women.  The company offers three collections, including a Tummy Control line designed to smooth and shape.  Here is a brief description of the three collections:

Classic: The line includes pants and tops made with their signature cotton stretch fabric.

Tummy Control: The line includes pants and tops made with their trademarked power mesh system discreetly built into the fabrics.

Fashion: The line includes the latest styles.

I have been living in a pair of the company’s Tummy Control Pants which are not only super comfy, but highly flattering.  The company uses a Blue-Tec Control System which is a specific blend of nylon and spandex.  The result is a fabric that slims, shapes, and contours in all the right places.  The only time I don’t feel the need to wear shapewear is when I’m wearing these pants. And while they’re designed for use during physical activity, I find them to be versatile enough to wear while lounging around the house or doing errands around the neighborhood.  The entire tummy control line includes reasonably priced pants, shorts, and tops in a variety of colors and styles.

Be sure to check out all three collections from The Girls, particularly their Fashion Collection, which features their latest colors and styles.

No compensation was received for this post. Product sample provided.