24 Day Challenge SPECIAL FREEBIE Offer :)

Ordering from me ensures you will receive everything you need to succeed! A complete detailed meal plan, recipe book, detailed instructions and SUPPORT from me and my team! Don't regret ordering elsewhere and not knowing what to do when you receive your package. The meal plan & support that I, as a recognized Advocare distributor, provide really ensure your success on the program! My team has its own private Facebook page that offers support and answers to any questions, any time!

Advocare Special: 
I am placing another Advocare order on Tuesday- and am running a special- get a free bottle of Catalyst or box of Spark with your 24 Day Challenge bundle. Email me before Tuesday if you have any questions or need to order: lindseylu8 @ gmail . com.


My Advocare 24 Day Challenge Results: 
I recently finished my 24 days and am SOOOO excited with my results: 10.2 lbs and 9 inches LOST :) eeeeek-so excited! I am reposting this because I am placing an order on Tuesday and the Advocare special (free bottle of Catalyst or box of Spark with you 24 Day Challenge bundle) is going on so I wanted to share! Its been a week since I finished and I havent gained any of the weight back. Woot- my cravings for sugar have virtually disappeared. I didnt even have cake on my birthday yesterday!

Check out my before and after photos:

Here is my quick low down on the Challenge:
I have been getting some emails asking about my 24 Day Challenge so I thought Id share a bit of info on it along with my results. Feel free to email (lindseylu8 at gmail dot com) or comment here if you have any other questions. I am placing an order on Tuesday, July 5th so if you need anything let me know :) and/or want to score your free bottle of Catalyst.

Days 1-10 are the Herbal Cleanse- NOT what you think! no crazy run to the bathroom weird 'cleanse' AT ALL. NOT at all! I would not advocate that type of "cleanse" in any way. Basically the fiber drinks and probiotics help:

• Support improved digestion 
• Provides 10 grams of fiber per day
• Supports healthy weight loss
• Rid the body of toxins and waste
• Helps remove impurities

Days 11-24 are the MNS days:

• Provides more than 50 vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, antioxidants and other nutrients for optimal health and wellness when your body needs it in the correct amounts.
• A comprehensive, scientifically advanced approach to weight management
• Includes appetite suppressants, metabolic enhancers and thermogenic ingredients to improve metabolic efficiency

What I personally LOVE about the Challenge: 

• Comes with a detailed meal plan that includes real whole foods that are quick & easy. Nothing fancy or expensive. Also comes with a nice big recipe book for meal ideas.
• It's not some combo of strange "diet pills" (which I do not advocate). Its the correct amount of nutrition your body needs when it needs it- calcium, omegas, fiber, probiotics, etc...Nothing that will make you jittery or cause any strange side effects.
• I wasn't hungry!!! I was eating real foods (3 meals, and 3 snacks per day) and I was satisfied. I wasnt craving the sugary treats like I normally do and was able to cut out a lot of the extra salt & sugar I had been consuming and I felt fabulous! 
• Bottom line. I lost over 10 pounds and nine whole inches!

How I found about Advocare: 
My friends posted some amazing before and after pics on their Facebook page so I asked them for the low down. They (a married couple I met at the Firm infomercial) finished their 24 Day Challenge and both lost a significant amount of pounds & inches. So the more I learned, the more I wanted to try it for myself. I ended up signing up for the distributor discount after my first order of Spark because DH & I both loved it so much! (I am completely off coffee now- WOW. You know Im from Seattle so that really says A LOT!) Love the Mandarin, Cherry, & the Citrus Spark. (Spark is a sugar free energy drink full of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that provides healthy, balanced energy).


So I am so ecstatic with my results! So happy to be off coffee and DH is off Energy drinks- I am placing my next order on Tuesday at 7pm so email me if you need anything lindseylu8 @ gmail . com or want to take advantage of this special!

URX-MT Review: Cardio Metabolic Circuit Review (& Circus Pics!)

Last Weekend: Here are the circus pictures from last weekend. It was fun :) Heres one of the trained elephants, a single clown, and DH & I driving to lunch before the circus....I had a birthday coupon for a free lunch at Sweet Tomatoes- one of my fav restaurants so we went there, then to the circus, then we went to friends house for dinner. It was an great Saturday!

Today's Bargain: Enter on Win, Lose, or Blog to win a Fertile Earth Simple Garden Junior Herb Garden (its totally awesome!!! and super cute!)

Today's Bargain #2: Enter the Two Belles Fitness "Helathy Beverage Giveaway" to win your very own Blender Bottle with insulated sling & recipe book, Ayala's Herbal Water, and Truvia Natural Sweetener.

Today's Tip: Power Breakfasts for Energy

One the biggest mistakes women make at breakfast time? Not eating enough. In the morning, your energy stores are depleted by as much as 80% from the night before. Without food, your body begins to conserve energy and burn fewer calories—making your metabolism take a nosedive. That may be why, in one study, breakfast skippers were nearly 5 times more likely to be obese than breakfast eaters. The following meals are packed with special fat-fighting nutrients—fiber, omega-3s, calcium, and vitamin D—a power combination that burns fat and keeps blood sugar (and energy) levels steady. (They’re also the basis of Prevention’s Diabetes DTOUR Diet plan). So whether you have diabetes, prediabetes, or just want to eat better and have fewer cravings and binges, start your morning with one of these delicious, nutritious choice. Read more on Prevention. 

Today's Review: URX-MT: Cardio Metabolic Circuit
Greg Sims, 2011 ***** (5 of 5 stars)

This is a 50 min C+S rebounder workout led by Greg in a nice brick gym set. He works out with 3 background exercisers. You will need a rebounder and 1-3 pound sand weights for this workout.

Exercises include: hops w/ a side crunch, lunge hops around UR w/ one leg on & one off, pliet pulses, weighted power lunges, pliet variations & holds, pliet hops, roll back & around UR, weighted core work, leg scissors, tuck jump vatiations, stick its, touch UR to a jump up, plank, weighted side plank w/ a top leg raise, unique bridge tri dip combo, star jumps-flying jacks, clean & press, V sits w/ weighted UB movements, long roll arounds, pushups.

I rate this advanced. This workout includes a LOT of great core work! Greg adds in lots of static arm holds while bouncing or doing lower body work so you really get to work the muscles even w/ the lighter weights. He does a great job of using the sand weights to keep the intensity up! Really really like this one and Greg as a lead. Cant wait to try more from him. I received this dvd to review.

Today's LOLz:

Happy Birthday to ME & Ellen Barret Skinny Sculpt Review

This Weekend: I went shopping to celebrate my recent weight loss! Yay! I got this cool handkerchief shirt that I love! And then I went to the outlet-esque mall near us and used a couple groupons, coupons, and a giftcard and only spend $50 total (including the groupon purchase)! I got a pair of capris, a tank top, a cardigan, a pair of shorts, flip flops, a super awesome Peanuts T-shirt that says "Girls Love Muscles", 6 Bath & Body Works products, mints, a polo shirt, a Hello Kitty water bottle, & a pair of undies! Seriously thats a SCORE and a half!

And today is my official birthday but we celebrated the 2 past Saturdays: with a trip to the circus LOL yes really. It was actually really really cool! I'll post pics later in the week. We had fun. Then we also celebrated at the Sauza House Party/ Mustache party too so I am celebrated out.

Today's Bargains: Enter to win Holly Perkins Exercise TV Fitness 360 dvd AND New Balance socks on Two Belles Fitness. 

Today's Tip: Mix it Up When Your workout is no longer challenging

Walking a 15-minute mile, for example, becomes easier as time goes on. If your workouts aren’t challenging you anymore, it can be helpful to wear a heart rate monitor. Your heart rate will change over time as you become more fit. By using a heart rate monitor, you’ll know to change up or intensify your routine, and ensure that you’re working within your target heart rate zone. Challenging your body improves your fitness level and can also provide a sense of accomplishment as you become stronger and work toward your goals. Read more on Gaiam.

Today's Review: Skinny Sculpt
Ellen Barrett, 2010

Ellen leads this 45 min toning workout in a open white room w/ 2 background exercises, one shows modifications. The dvd is nicely chaptered. You will need a set of light dumbbells for this workout. This workout contains a balance of strength and flexibility work done standing and on the floor.

The first 30 minutes of this workout is done standing with light dumbbells. Ellen leads you through exercises such as: pliets with big arm movements (star arms, punch across, inhale arms), side mambo w/ a rhomboid pinch, side toe taps with big arm movements, travel pliets, warrior lunges w/ bi curls, etc. The standing portion has a very flowing, energizing feel.

The remaining 15 minutes is lower body & core floor work. Exercises include: V pulls, V rows, V side raise, bridge variations, long leg beats, scissor drops, knee drops adding in a side kick, and leg wipers.

I would rate this a low intermediate workout. A great w/o to do in whole on "light" strength days or to break up to add on to other strength workouts. Ellen is a fantastic instructor who provides great cuing and has a wonderful demeanor. I put this w/o in the ballet/ barre/ low weight category. Good to add in our routines from time to time to keep our bodies guessing. I received this dvd to review.

Today's LOLz: courtesy of my DH. He sends these to me when he sees ones he knows I'll enjoy.

Fitness Fashion and Accessory Must Haves (iShirts, Sweaty Bands, and Matter of Crafts)

So what are some of the Belles fashion must haves? Keep reading to find out....and enter on Two Belles Fitness to win them!

iStyle Originals:
We have fallen in love with iStyle Originals!!!! iStyle Originals offer women and men iShirts, baby onesies, doggie wear, accessories, and kids shirts. So many cute options so you can reflect your own iStyle!  iStyle Originals is the essence of self expression in this new mobile social media world. It gives stars and regular folks like us a unique way to tell people a little something about ourselves.

Whether you rock, you party or are sweeter than candy, iStyle Originals has a shirt or accessory for you. Even little ones can tell the world they are cute or that they like to cuddle. How about doggies? Of course, our four legged canine friends can express themselves too!

Lindsey-belle had the pleasure of reviewing  the iCandy shirt and Maria-belle had the pleasure of reviewing the iRock shirt- we loved both shirts so much!!! We also have our eyes on the supercute iCoach and iTalk shirts :) In our neverending pursuit of fitness, we both want to pursue getting PT and/or group fitness certified and will definitely reward ourselves with the iCoach shirt when we obtain our certifications.

Sweaty Bands: 
We have been looking for a non-slip exercise head-band for EVER. Well search no longer- we found the ultimate non-slip (super cute & stylish) Sweaty Bands! They come in a HUGE variety of widths and designs. They literally stay put no matter how high impact the workout, no matter how sweaty we get!

They have so many cute patterns and colors to choose from and seriously: THEY DO NOT SLIP!!!!!!! Sweaty Bands has turned perspiration into a fashion sensation! Sweaty Bands are the ultimate sports and fitness headband, uniquely designed for women and girls who want to show their style, even when they sweat a while! Slip into one today and become a Sweaty Bands believer. Like potato chips, you can’t have just one, so check out out the monthly six-pack. Go ahead; turn on the Sweaty Jukebox, take your time, and enjoy your visit!

Matter of Crafts:

The Belles have come across a super-cute craft store, Matter of Crafts, which offers custom-made charms, key chains, magnets and much more. Matter of Crafts stems from one woman with a desire to make unique, personalized gifts for any occasion At Matter of Crafts, their mission is making you smile, one craft at a time. From the care and quality that goes into each piece, it is apparent that Matter of Crafts makes sure that attention to detail and creativity are a matter of fact! The beautifully crafted keychains, charms and magnets are made with a high quality pendant glass. They come ready for gift-giving tucked inside an organza bag. These pieces make perfect gifts for the people in your life that you need a little something for but have no idea what to get them. From teachers to co-workers, the postman to neighbors, everyone will appreciate the sentiment behind these carfully crafted gifts. They are also good for party favors and fundraisers. And let's not forget about getting something for you! Do you have a picture of a special event you want to commemorate? Crossing the finish line at your first half-marathon or marathon? Do you have a favorite quote you want on a magnet on your refrigerator to keep you motivated? Matter of Crafts will custom make a charm, magnet or key chain just for you! Matter of Crafts will provide the winner of this giveaway with two custom-made magnets (one circle and one rectangle) and one square charm (chain not included).

Head on over & enter to win on Two Belles Fitness!

We received samples of these products to review. We were in no other way compensated for our honest reviews. All thoughts and ideas expressed are oury own. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. We can not be held responsible for user errors in entering this contest, shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

My Advocare 24 Day Challenge Results!!!!!

Ordering from me ensures you will receive everything you need to succeed! A complete detailed meal plan, recipe book, detailed instructions and SUPPORT from me and my team! Don't regret ordering elsewhere and not knowing what to do when you receive your package. The meal plan & support that I, as a recognized Advocare distributor, provide really ensure your success on the program! My team has its own private Facebook page that offers support and answers to any questions, any time!

My Advocare 24 Day Challenge Results: 
I just finished my 24 days and am SOOOO excited with my results: 10.2 lbs and 9 inches LOST :) eeeeek-so excited Check out my before and after photos:

Note: I did NOT suck it in, in the after pic and I did NOT stick it out in the before pic. Wearing the same outfit (with the exception of the headband LOL). Before pic taken May 31st and the after taken June 24.


Here is my quick low down on the Challenge:
I have been getting some emails asking about my 24 Day Challenge so I thought Id share a bit of info on it along with my results. Feel free to email (lindseylu8 at gmail dot com) or comment here if you have any other questions. 

Days 1-10 are the Herbal Cleanse- NOT what you think! no crazy run to the bathroom weird 'cleanse' AT ALL. NOT at all! I would not advocate that type of "cleanse" in any way. Basically the fiber drinks and probiotics help:

• Support improved digestion 
• Provides 10 grams of fiber per day
• Supports healthy weight loss
• Rid the body of toxins and waste
• Helps remove impurities

Days 11-24 are the MNS days:

• Provides more than 50 vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, antioxidants and other nutrients for optimal health and wellness when your body needs it in the correct amounts.
• A comprehensive, scientifically advanced approach to weight management
• Includes appetite suppressants, metabolic enhancers and thermogenic ingredients to improve metabolic efficiency

What I personally LOVE about the Challenge: 

• Comes with a detailed meal plan that includes real whole foods that are quick & easy. Nothing fancy or expensive. Also comes with a nice big recipe book for meal ideas.
• It's not some combo of strange "diet pills" (which I do not advocate). Its the correct amount of nutrition your body needs when it needs it- calcium, omegas, fiber, probiotics, etc...Nothing that will make you jittery or cause any strange side effects.
• I wasn't hungry!!! I was eating real foods (3 meals, and 3 snacks per day) and I was satisfied. I wasnt craving the sugary treats like I normally do and was able to cut out a lot of the extra salt & sugar I had been consuming and I felt fabulous! 
• Bottom line. I lost over 10 pounds and nine whole inches!

How I found about Advocare: 
My friends posted some amazing before and after pics on their Facebook page so I asked them for the low down. They (a married couple I met at the Firm infomercial) finished their 24 Day Challenge and both lost a significant amount of pounds & inches. So the more I learned, the more I wanted to try it for myself. I ended up signing up for the distributor discount after my first order of Spark because DH & I both loved it so much! (I am completely off coffee now- WOW. You know Im from Seattle so that really says A LOT!) Love the Mandarin, Cherry, & the Citrus Spark. (Spark is a sugar free energy drink full of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that provides healthy, balanced energy).


So I am so ecstatic with my results and plan to start another round after vacation late this summer!

Review: Just Tell Me What to Eat by Timothy Harlan, MD

Just Tell Me What to Eat
Timothy Harlan is a practicing New Orleans-based internist. Known as Dr Gourmet, Timothy Harlan grew up with a love for cooking. After opening his first restaurant at the age of twenty-two, he returned back to school and persued a medical degree after dealing with an illness in the family. Over the years he has counseled thousands of individuals searching for weight-loss answers. During those years one thing was apparent, most patients were confused about both how to lose weight and how to eat healthy. The lack of sound information coupled with spread of fad diets exacerbated the problem. Dr Harlan wrote Just Tell Me What to Eat as an answer to the problem.

Just Tell Me What to Eat!: The Delicious 6-Week Weight Loss Plan for the Real World is a medically based weight loss plan that teaches readers how to plan, cook, snack and eat out for long term success. The book offers a practical and achievable solution designed to fit into event the busiest of lifestyles. The book includes specific menus and over fifty delicious recipes that are the foundation for the six-week plan.

Just Tell Me What to Eat is based on three key principles: 1) Eat the highest-quality calories that you can; 2) Eat according to the Mediterranean diet principles; 3) Whenever possible, you should make your own meals. While most books begin with information overload and finish off with, often time boring and unappetizing meal plans, Just Tell Me What to Eat takes a different approach. The book is laid out in an easy-to-follow, easy-to-read manner. With six weeks of meal plans, recipes and shopping lists, one chapter for each week, Dr Harlan takes you through the plan. Each week begins with the dinner menu for the week which also includes a convenience food alternative as well as a restaurant meal alternative. Each day during the six weeks you will learn not only how to cook great food but the benefits and science behind the food. You will learn a little bit each day not only from Dr. Tim's perspective but also from Chef Tim's perspective. By the end of the six weeks you will have learned about quality calories, how to lose weight, why you lose weight, how to keep it off and stay healthy going forward all in small, manageable daily bites.

Just Tell Me What to Eat!: The Delicious 6-Week Weight Loss Plan for the Real World is a no-nonsense, no gimmicks approach to eating right designed to help you lose weight effectively and permanently. The book is full of tips, menus, food alternatives and useful information about the benefits and science of food. Dr Harlan is not only a board-certified physician but his love for food combined with his fact-based approach to the kitchen sets him and his work apart. He provides a solution and an exact prescription of what to eat, how to cook it and best of all why eating great food is the best health decision you can make.

For more information about Dr Gourmet Timothy Harlan or his new book Just Tell Me what to Eat visit:

Dr Gourmet on the Web
Dr Gourmet on Facebook
Dr Gourmet on Twitter

Disclaimer: I was provided with Just Tell Me What to Eat to review. We received no other compensation and were under no obligation to review it if we so chose. Nor were we under obligation to provide a positive review in return for the free workout. Retail value is $25.00.

SHAPE magazine & Jessica Smith Facebook Q&A Hour TODAY!

Be sure to tune in tomorrow on the SHAPE Magazine wall to get all your health & fitness questions answered by fitness pro Jessica Smith!

Date: Tuesday, June 28th

Time: 12:00 pm EST to 1:00 pm EST

Place: SHAPE Magazines Facebook wall

What: Jessica Smith is hosting the Shape Magazine Facebook Wall!

Check out her Sexy Summer Legs Challenge on YouTube here!

10 Pounds DOWN and Shape Summer Challenge

Did you know that the greater support system you have in place, the more likely you are to succeed? Looking for accountability and support to stay on track with your fitness goals? This summer Jessica Smith and 10 Pounds Down is teaming up with SHAPE Magazine to bring you a special summer challenge workout series - for FREE. The plan is set to begin on July 1^st. Please stay tuned for more details. Be the first to get the details by signing up at 10 Pounds Down.

Looking for FREE audio-guided workouts to add to your exercise routine? G Series Fit and MotionTraxx is offering a series of expert lead workouts. Be sure to check out their G Series FIT for free, coached workout mixes to take your summer workouts to the next level. Check out their latest treadmill workout or the elliptical workout led by Amy Dixon.

Healthy Pantry Giveaway on Two Belles Fitness

Have you ever wondered what the Belles keep in our pantries?.... Head on over to Two Belles Fitness & enter!

Manna Organics:

MANNA BREAD® is remarkably simple and wholesome, made entirely from sprouted organic grains, seeds, fruits & nuts. It contains no salt, leavening, yeast, oil, or sweeteners. By fully germinating theirr grains, they convert the starches into easily digested natural complex sugars, similar to those found in fresh fruits, hence the sweetness. The sprouts are ground and hand-shaped into loaves, baked at a low temperature, then packed and frozen to preserve shelf life, without any chemical additives.

I had the absolute pleasure of trying Manna Breads: Carrot Raisin, Banana Walnut Hemp, Cinnamon Date, and Multigrain. I cant decided which I like best- they are all so moist, delicious, and full of flavor. Both DH & I loved them! Which is saying a lot because DH is not a fan of most healthy foods LOL! We have been enjoying the Banana Walnut Hemp toasted and topped with a little almond butter for a quick and filling breakfast. We also love the Cinnamon Date topped with a dab of butter and sprinkled with cinnamon. The Carrot Raisin is delicious toasted as a post workout snack and we love using the Multigrain for our lunch sandwiches.

Manna Sprouted Breads are: salt free, 100% sprouted whole grain, delicious & moist, unleavened, high in fiber, flour free, contain no fats or oils,  no added sweeteners, yeast free, low glycemic index, and contain no artificial ingredients. So yummy, so filling, so good for you! I am in LOVE with Manna Organics breads!!!!!

Designer Whey Protein Powder:
The Belles are pleased to share the fantastic tasting and super healthy Designer Whey protein powder! We are in LOVE with their new Vanilla Almond flavor! And whats not to love: All natural, 18 grams of protein, 200 mg calcium, and only 2 grams of fat in each 100 calorie serving and it tastes superb!!!! Who knew all natural whey protein could taste this good!!! Healthy whey protein: keeps us full so we eat less, helps us recover from exercise and gives us extra energy. Designer Whey contains B vitamins to help convert protein into useable energy, contains added calcium for better muscle performance and bone health (VERY important to us women!), and is naturally sweetened with a hint of almond…creamy and delicious!

Our favorite way to enjoy Designer Whey Vanilla Almond is blended with 1 cup of almond milk, ice cubes, and 1/2 a banana. Fast, filling, and healthy breakfast. Also perfect for an after workout recovery drink to fuel our muscles. Designer Whey also comes in All Natural: Double Chocolate, unflavored, and French Vanilla. We love them all and at only 100 calories per serving- we can enjoy the shakes as a snack or a fast meal on the go! Visit the Designer Whey website to print your own $2.00 off coupon. Be sure to join the Designer Whey Facebook page to be one of fifty lucky winners each week that will receive a sample pack of their new Vanilla Almond Flavor. The lucky winner of this giveaway will take home a canister of Designer Whey Protein Powder.

Larabar:
The Belles always have a Larabar in hand (or in our bag, our desk drawer, and of course our pantries!) We never know when a craving will hit us and armed with a Larabar- we won't be tempted to induldge in office goodies or fast food treats. Larabars taste better, and are SO much healthier!

In mouth-watering flavors such as: Pecan Pie, Key Lime Pie, Coconut Cream Pie, Cashew Cookie, Chocolate Chip Brownie, Cherry Pie, and SO many more who can resist??? But the good news is- you dont have to-Larabars are good for you deliciousness! The Larabar Coconut Cream Pie contains a mix of unsweetened coconut, cashews and almonds provides 6 grams of fiber and a yummy alternative to eating actual pie- but believe me you won't miss out on the taste! The winner of this giveaway will take home a variety of Larabars!

Want to win all these delicious and healthy goodies? Enter to win on Two Belles Fitness.

We received samples of these products to review. We were in no other way compensated for our honest reviews. All thoughts and ideas expressed are oury own. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. We can not be held responsible for user errors in entering this contest, shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

Win, Lose, or Blog Collage Video Giveaway: Jazzercise Core

Enter to win Jazzercise Core from Collage Video on Win, Lose, or Blog!

Review: Jazzercise Core
Judy Sheppard Missett, 2009


This dvd offers a ton of variety and includes a 60 minute core cardio workout, a 30 minute premix version and a bonus floor and standing core section! Judy alternates leading this fun core cardio workout with the 2 background exercisers- all do a great job and offer unique routines!An optional exercise ball is required for the floor cardio w/o but a modifer shows the exercises done on the floor.

 Great music and great energy make this a fantastic way to get both cardio & core workout done in a variety of time options to fit your day! All three instructors keep this workout fun and upbeat and really offer a live class feel! Exercises include: football shuffles, cardio lunge & punch, punch & kick combos, shimmy, jacks, shuffle, knee pulls, rocking horse, hip shifts, pelvic thrusts, and hip isolations. The instructors do a great job of adding in core targeted moves to fun cardio exercises. This workout is fast paced and really keeps you moving without being complicated or hard to follow.

I rate this an intermediate workout that is suitable for all fitness levels. The instructors offer modifications for all the high impact moves. I love core + cardio workouts- why not burn some calories while hitting those abs? This workout is so much more fun and effective that boring crunches. The variety of exercises keep you moving and hit all the core muscles in a new & effective way! So many time and w/o varieties are offered on this dvd making it great as a stand alone workout or to add on to other workouts!

Want to try this workout out for yourself? Head on over to Collage and get yourself a copy! Want to win a copy? Enter on Win, Lose, or Blog. Contest open to everyone!!!

Today's Cakes: Mustache cupcakes from the mustache party: caramel mocha frappucino cupcakes & buttercream topped w/ fondant mustaches. And red velvet cake balls with a fondant flower.  ( Custom cakes by Lindsey Lu. Phoenix custom cakes. Specialty Cakes Phoenix. Arizona custom specialty cakes. Specialty cupcakes phoenix. Custom cupcakes  Phoenix wedding cakes. )

Today's Tip: Does Your workout leave you more tired and sore than before?

Exercise should give you more energy, not leave you feeling rundown. If you are feeling overly tired or constantly sore, you could be over training. Your body needs time for rest and recovery. It’s during this down time that you build strength and endurance by allowing your muscles to rebuild and repair. If you don’t give your body ample recovery time, you’ll become weaker instead of stronger. If you suspect you have been overtraining, your first priority should be rest. You might need a few days to recharge mentally and physically. Once you’re feeling better, start back slowly. Reevaluate your workout program and find ways to make changes that will prevent this from happening again. Read more on Gaiam.

Today's LOLz: 

Jari Love Revved to the Max Review, 24 Day Challenge, and HOUSE PARTY Pics

Sauza House Party/ Mustache Party/ My Birthday Party: Whew do I know how to multi-task a party or what!!!! Pics (top): various mustache cups. mustache photos that I hung around the house, mustache cup & straw, and pin the mustache on 70's Burt Reynolds (what party is complete w/out that...). Pics (middle) mustache cupcakes (caramel mocha frappucinno), and peanut butter & chocolate mustaches). Pic (left) the mustache photo booth I set up! I got the sign from www.Buildasign.com and had various hats, & props set up. It was fun!!!! You can click on the photos to enlarge them.

Update on my 24 Day Challenge: Weight as of day 22: so very close to 10 lbs lost....I hope to hit the 10 lb mark by Friday's weigh in. Wish me luck!!!


Today's Tip: Your workout bores you? Time to Change It Up!
You used to enjoy walking outside, so why do you dread your walk workout each day? It’s easy to get bored if you stick with the same routine for too long. Sometimes it helps to add variety to your walks. For example, try listening to music when you walk, adding speed or hill intervals, or bringing a family member or friend along with you. I’m sure your family pooch would welcome a stroll around the neighborhood! If all of that isn’t enough, then maybe it’s time to try a new activity. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try biking or are interested in taking a dance class? Change can help keep your workouts fun and interesting, giving you something to look forward to. Read more on Gaiam.

Today's Bargain: Enter to win Firm Classic Volume Two from Fitness Favorites on Two Belles Fitness! We have a TON of fab giveaways going on at Two Belles Fitness- check them all out here.

Weekly Poll Results: You Just Cant Get Into:

Pilates	(14%)
Yoga	(42%)
Barre	(28%)
Running	(14%)

Today's Review: Get Ripped! Revved to the Max
Jari Love, 2011 *** (3 of 5 stars)

Jari leads this workout with 4 backgrounders in an open but dark set. You will need various dumbbells and an optional step bench for this workout. This is a moderate weight, high rep strength workout done at an aerobic pace. My heartrate was up and stayed up for the majority of the workout. The backgrounders provide various intensity and equipment modifications. The dvd is broken down into one 60 minute w/o or 2 30 min w/o's. Each multi-limb exercise is repeated for five minutes w/ tempo variations.

Workout #1: Exercises include deadlift- row and side leg lift, side squat off step w/ clean & press variation, quick squats, square tap downs, lunge & press, dip & lat raise, pushup & trip dips, sit up w/ front raise, crunch variations, and twisting crunches.

Workout #2: Exercises include squat offs & front raise, squat & overhead press w/ a leg extension, funky squats & rotator cuff, gorilla walk over step & back fly, pulsing pliet to lunges, reverse crunch & toe drops, and lay down to stand ups.

Following Jari this is an intermediate workout but adjust your poundage and follow a mod for a more or less challenging workout. This workout really gets the job done- my muscles were thoroughly worked in both 30 min w/o's (I did them separately), my heart was pumping, and I was drenched in sweat. There is no wasted time and you are really moving nonstop in this. A lot of the exercises were new to me/ unique. Having said that- there was not a lot of fun factor for me. If you are looking for a "get-in get-out" workout that provides strength & cardio- this is the perfect workout for you. I received this dvd to review.

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Fitness Favorites Giveaway on Two Belles Fitness: Firm Classic Volume 2

Fitness Favorites is the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of pre-2001 The FIRM workouts. The Original Master Tape is the source used for each title available on DVD. Fitness Favorites places only one workout per DVD guaranteeing minimal compression and delivering the best possible resolution. The DVDs offer a crisp, colorful, high-quality image and a rich sound mix of both music and voice. The DVDs are hand-assembled without shrink-wrap.

Enter to win this dvd on Two Belles Fitness courtesy of Fitness Favorites!

The Firm Volume 2 - Low Impact Aerobics:

The Firm Volume 2 - Low Impact Aerobics is a sixty-five minute classic Firm aerobics weight training (AWT) workout. Created by Anna Benson and led by Janet Jones-Gretzky the workout combines low impact aerobics with weighted interval training to burn fat and sculpt muscle. The workout, first released in 1988, has been digitally remastered and brought to DVD for Firm Classics enthusiasts. This DVD has a Menu for each of the basic sections, and is fully chaptered. From the main menu, The workout is set in the classic Firm Studio and Janet is joined by several background exercisers. For the workout you will need light to heavy dumbbells.

The Firm Volume 2 - Low Impact Aerobics begins with an aerobic warm-up to wake up the body and prepare it for the workout and is followed by some light stretching. The first half of the workout then alternates between low impact aerobics and four-limbed aerobic weight training to provide a fat burning workout. The second half utilizes ankle weights and floor work to target the muscles of the lower body. The workout concludes with a well deserved stretch.

The Firm Volume 2 - Low Impact Aerobics is a thorough, well-thought out, nicely choreograped aerobic weight training workout - that made the original Firm workouts true classics. The workout is great for all fitness levels and can be adjusted by selecting the appropriate amount of weight to perform the workout based on your fitness level.  Janet Jones-Gretzky does a great job cuing the workout, encouraging the exerciser, offering form pointers and motivation.

For more information visit Fitness Favorites online or like Fit Faves on Facebook.

Head on over & enter to win the Fitness Favorites -The Firm Volume 2 - Low Impact Aerobics Giveaway on Two Belles Fitness

At-Home Spa Day Giveaway (Perfect Formula, Bodycology, One Bath and Body)

What do the Belles do when they want some pampering without the cost of going to a spa? We treat ourselves with some at-home spa essentials. Enter on Two Belles Fitness to win each of the items featured below!

Perfect Formula: Essentials For Perfect Nails

The Perfect Formula product line is designed to make beautiful hands and feet easily achievable for anyone. Their unique nail strengthening formulas have given thousands of women longer, stronger, healthier natural nails. Whether you have brittle or weak nails, nails that split or peel or even nails that have been damaged by acrylic, gel or glue, Perfect Formula products can help them become strong, healthy and beautiful.  The Belles had the opportunity to try the Perfect Formula Crystal Pedi-Buff and we are in love! The exclusive, patented Crystal Pedi-Buff exfoliates away rough, dry skin. A never dulling crystal surface gives you soft, smooth feet, ready for sandals year- round. With an ergonomically designed handle for comfort and an antibacterial surface, you can leave your Perfect Formula Pedi-Buff in the shower for daily use. This is the answer to smooth summer ready feet- quick & easy to use and glamorous results! Our lucky winner will take home a Crystal Pedi-Buff of their very own!

ONE Bath and Body Lotion Massage Bar:

ONE Bath and Body is committed to promoting natural beauty without compromising the beauty of the earth, providing eco-friendly products in recyclable, plastic-free packaging to rejuvenate the spirit and save the planet. From pampering bath formulas to nourishing moisturizers, the entire collection is infused with rich essential oils, natural butters and delicate fragrance, energizing the mind and body with quality natural ingredients.  ONE exclusively packages its unprecedented collection in recyclable cardboard cartons and tins, housing nourishing, natural products in equally planet-friendly containers. ONE lotion massage bars are blended with the finest moisturizing butters and essential oils from around the world. They melt on warm skin providing a sensation that is not only healing but pleasing and relaxing.  Each bar comes with an aluminum tin that fits perfectly in your purse making it perfect for travel.  Massage the lotion bar onto skin concentrating on tense muscles and sore areas.  It will actually tingle as it glides over your body. The winner of this giveaway will take home their very one ONE Lotion Massage Bar!

Bodycology Island Coconut:
Bodycology is more than a brand; it is a state of mind, focusing on the self-fulfillment needs of women from the first layer to the last. The philosophy of Bodycology is for women to feel a sense of wellbeing and create a sanctuary within the daily beauty routine. Bodycology includes a delicious range of products that use the highest quality ingredients, long-lasting fragrance and upscale, beautiful packaging – and all at a great price. Bodycology's newest scent, Island Coconut, will transport you to sandy beaches on a tropical island with the tantalizing scent of coconut and a hint of sweet cream. Begin your tropical journey in the shower with the rich, creamy lather from the body wash, layer it with the creamy body lotion and finish it off with a spritz of the body mist for all-over freshness.

I am IN LOVE with the Island Coconut scent- yummmm! I love layering my scents; I start with the Bodycology shower gel-which produces a wonderfully fragrant but not overpowering lather, then onto the super moisturizing lotion. Which is completely non-greasy! I finish with the Bodycology body mist! The shower gel doubles as a bubble bath for those days you have time to really pamper yourself with a lovely bubble bath. The winner of this giveaway will take home one of each of the featured Bodycology Island Coconut products!

Head on over to Two Belles Fitness and enter to win all these fabulous spa goodies!

We received samples of these products to review. We were in no other way compensated for our honest reviews. All thoughts and ideas expressed are oury own. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. We can not be held responsible for user errors in entering this contest, shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.