Let's Talk Fitness {Ten on Tuesday}

No surprise here, right? While I'm technically a 'lifestyle' blogger [whatever that means], I've always had a great interest in working out and fitness. Growing up my parents kept us constantly active in sports [soccer, gymnastics, tennis, swimming, diving, track and running] and I was fortunate enough to compete at the college level in soccer for four wonderful years. After college I continued to lift weights as a hobby while growing my knowledge of the current fitness trends and just last summer became a certified BODYPUMP instructor. Throughout the blog years I've shared some of my favorite fitness workouts, eating plans and am hoping to get my AFA and NASM certifications this coming year so I can share even more knowledge with y'all. Today I thought I'd share ten of my fitness tips while joining Karli for her Ten on Tuesday.

1|| Lifting weights will help you lose weight more so than just cardio. Gone are the days of running for 30 minutes and seeing results. You need to mix in weights to tone that body up, only cardio won't cut it.  Despite what most women think, you won't bulk up by lifting weights, TRUST ME! I've lifted since high school and only in the last TWO YEARS did I start bulking and that was by design. Pick up those 10-15 pound weights and start incorporating lifting into your workout plan.

2|| If you don't know where to start ask a professional or ask questions of your fitness friends. Everyone started at the beginning at one time or another and we [fitness instructors] are all here to help each other. If you choose to go the personal trainer route, make sure they carry the correct certifications so you know you'll be getting the best bang for your buck and won't get injured.

3|| Fitness can be and should be fun. If you hate running, take Zumba for cardio. If lifting sounds like torture pick up a resistance band or take a group fitness class if you are part of a gym. I have yet to try barre, due to the cost and not wanting two gym memberships, but I have so many friends that swear barre classes are a great workout and fun.There are so many unique fitness routines out there and the options are endless so do your research and pick your workout poison.

4|| There are TONS of free classes online and there ain't no shame in getting your sweat on at home. I've used Jillian Michaels, Billy Blanks, Yogadownloaddotcom, TurboFire and I'm very interested in Les Mills On Demand. All you need for a good workout at home is your computer/tablet/phone or dvd program, a wifi connection and a good attitude. When you think about it, what could be simpler to get your sweat on?

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5|| Change creates change. You can't keep doing the same thing and expect your body to continue to change. Our bodies are smart and they adapt to stress so it is important to try new exercises if you want to see constant results. I just added the TKO 4 - Way resistance band to my workout regimen and it is a FANTASTIC tool for functional training and core exercises. I've used it at home for an additional work out after teaching BODYPUMP and have also grabbed it for a quick functional workout when I can't get to the gym. The four way band is quite compact and perfect to throw in a bag to use while traveling. I used it while we were away last weekend and plan to take it on our European adventure to keep my muscles in shape while we are vacationing. #norestfothegymrats #dontwanttolosethetone

6|| Cute workout gear doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. Yes, Lulu products are pretty and their leggings are worth the money, but you can find cute gear at your local Target. I've snapped up quite a few cute leggings and sports bras for cheap prices and plan to add these tops to my collection as well. #hangdrytomakethemlastlonger

7|| Speaking of clothes, check your leggings and make sure they aren't see through. If you are going to splurge on apparel, leggings are where you should splurge. You want to make sure they provide full coverage and move easily with your body. I love my Target leggings and you can't go wrong with Zellas [buy them during the Nordstrom sale, trust me, you'll love that price point]. Zellas are also fantastic to travel in a well so they are quite the bang for your buck.

8|| Invest in good shoes. Sure the brightly colored sparkly shoes are cute, but they probably don't have the support you need. I highly suggest going to a running store and getting fitted correctly for shoes if you are looking into any type of running regimen. If you just want to cross train I am partial to these Under Armour these New Balance and Reebok shoes. 

9|| STRETCH! Stretch! Stretch!!! I admit I used to be the WORST about stretching, I just wanted to get on with my evening once the work out was done. Then I found myself getting injured and being sorer than I should be and I realized I wasn't taking care of my body after I stressed it out. If you don't stretch immediately after take 5 minutes while you're watching television at night and get down on the ground and stretch.

10|| The most important quote to remember fitness-wise is this "You can't out work a bad diet". Sorry, I know that statement sucks but it's true. If you're eating highly processed foods you're not going to much of a change in your body no matter HOW much you are working out. Cut out the crap and start eating whole foods. I am a huge advocate of Whole30 [round one, round two and round three] because that was the first program where I noticed a difference in my body, but find what works for you. You don't need to starve yourself on 1,000 calories a day, it is all about smart food decisions and not wasting calories on sodas and coffees. #garbageingarbageout #youcanchangeyourheatinghabits

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Do you have any fitness tips you want to share? I love learning from others and if you have any questions please don't hesitate to email me or ask them in the comments section. Have a fabulous day! < 3

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***I was provided a TKO 4-Resistance band for review, but as always all opinions are my own***