Sweat The Holidays

It seems everywhere you turn - people are surrounded by negativity, stress, sadness, and reminders of what we don’t have or have lost. Things like relationships, family, animals and sometimes even ourselves. This week I was bombarded by phone calls from clients saying “I just can’t think about getting into the gym, I have so much to do and no time to do it." Some explained that this time of year makes them "stressed and that they might as well let 'working out' go till after January 1st." My reply to them is "NO YOUR NOT!" I explained that "once you are here and I get my hands on you and we start moving you'll know that this is the best thing you can do did for yourself." So they did! They came in and forgot what they were stressing about (fight/work/etc.)

That's why it is so important to incorporate movement into your life. Life is about movement and movement brings life. By keeping to your exercise/workout schedule you are doing your body good. What feels better than that? I know that when I'm feeling crummy I go for a run, do some Pilates, or strength train. That little time I allow myself enables me to think clearer and feel better.
Remember, often the stress we feel is the stress we bring upon ourselves.

-Francesca Pucher

One Size Doesn't Fit All

The other day I was sitting in my kitchen enjoying a nice cup of coffee with Frank. We were talking about how great all of our sessions have been and yet how 'what we do as fitness professionals' gets thrown to the side or completely misunderstood. We were also watching the news at this time and they were about to have a segment on how to get Heidi Klum’s 'Butt' with trainer David Kirsh. We were looking at one another saying "just what the American people want to know about." "Not how to start an exercise plan, but how can I get her butt?"

Although I happen to love Heidi, she gets paid millions to shake her 'butt' down the runway. Most women do not. The segment begins and the anchor men and women (in suits and heels) are getting ready for the Butt Workout (really). Out comes trainer to the stars David Kirsh with his book to plug and 2 exercises "everybody should add to their program to get a butt like Heidi." As he is talking the news people are joking around with him and by time he gets to the exercises 10 wasted minutes have gone by (we timed it). He demonstrates the 2 must do exercises and they are the Platypus squat and then Platypus squat with side kicks. WHAT? These are some of the most impractical exercises I have ever seen. Why not just do a regular squat? (Which is hard enough for most people to do with proper form.)

Although the exercise is creative, my point is that it doesn't help the majority of the people exercising or wanting to start. I deal with clients everyday that have orthopedic issues and I would never have them do that. Would you David? I don't do those exercises and I am pretty fit. The whole segment was a joke. We should be spending more time in the media discussing REAL exercise and wellness. Instead, we show squats in our suits and heels and call it "quality air time." Maybe that is why there is an obesity epidemic and we are totally unfit as a nation. We make fitness out to be a joke and sell a workout that does not work for everybody.

-Francesca Pucher

Fitness 121 PM.

"It's not just Personal Training; it's Fitness 121 Personal Training."

Stop by. Call us. Or Email us: Fitness121@aol.com for more information.

"You won't just feel better, you'll BE better."

Pilates, Not Just For Women

For all (you) men out there that think Pilates is for the opposite sex think again. After all, it was created by a male Joseph Pilates and has been a dominant training style for men and women, as well as elite athletes for over 50 years. Now Pilates used all over the fitness world to help build core strength, balance, stamina, posture, endurance, and flexibility. I'm often asked "why Pilates is good for men?" I usually say "to improve flexibility" (most men have none) but in reality it's a great workout, especially for those that play sports such as golf, tennis, baseball, basketball, or even running.

Usually men look at someone on a reformer and think "I can’t do that." YES YOU CAN! And you should if you are seeking to live a better life. Remember fitness isn’t about how much weight you can lift, its how effectively we move our body and relax the mind. Pilates does just that.

Now, I am not saying it's easy; but if you ask any of my male clients they will say "it’s hard but the results are rewarding" and that they feel GREAT after their sessions. Do you feel GREAT after your workouts? If not, then give Pilates a try. Inquire with me about our 'group' on Saturday mornings, if you do, I promise you will feel awesome.

Besides, you might improve your life as well.

"Dream, Create & Live a Great Life."

Francesca Pucher