Love Your Legs

I want to share a few of my favorite leg exercises you can sneak into your day in 20 minutes.

With your exercise ball  C9 Core Fitness Ball- Let's place the ball against a wall at your lower back and butt area.  

Press you weight against the ball, hands on your hips with your feet shoulder width apart and slowly lower to Chair Position, then back up.  I like to do 4 sets of 25.  

Use a weight that's right for you - Here I have a 7.5 pound weight

Place your weight at chin level - step forward to create your base - staying in that position, you will lower down - not taking your knee all the way to the floor - then back up to standing position and repeat 4 sets of 25.  Of course do what's best for you

Boost your metabolism with just 20 minutes a day.  Exercise doesn't have to mean a sweaty, exhausting run; gardening, walking, or other low-intensity exercise can offer many benefits.  Bottom line it can increase your 'Happiness Factor'.  And you deserve that!   *I am not a trainer*  I like to share my routines with you.  See the video below for a better visual.

Have a great day & Take care of yourself

Villa Pilates & Yoga - Good For The Soul

Tucked away in Cannery Village in Newport Beach on the corner of 31st and Villa Way.  This charming cottage is overflowing with positive vibes.  The space gives you a warm feeling, with bamboo floors, natural light, and non toxic paint.  You instantly become stress free just walking through the door.

The second you step into the studio you receive your positive message on the chalkboard that hangs on the wall like a precious work of art.  I had the pleasure of taking an amazing class with Carly Farmer, who is also the owner.  Carly has a primo playlist and a true following.  Myself included...

You can also indulge in a little shopping for clothing, mats, and other goodies handmade by local designers. 

NOMADIX -   Made for the beach, camping and yoga. 

There is a very tranquil feel about Villa, you can tell there was a lot of TLC put into the design of the studio. This is one of those special places you will want to explore.  I also took a yoga class with Andrea, who is truly inspirational and soulful.  

I am very GRATEFUL to have found Villa Pilates & Yoga.  If you are in the Newport Beach area don't miss this terrific 'jewel box' of motivation.  It's well worth it, and you feel incredible when you leave.

Villa Pilates & Yoga

Biceps And Triceps

Happy Friday- Let's flex our muscles  Emi-Jay T shirt Emi-Jay Headband

Elongate the bicep- Here I am using  the Go Fit Band.  These bands are are simple to use and come in different resistance strengths. You can use them anywhere and they are easy to travel with.  Place one foot forward to create your base and keep your core strong, take both handles in one hand with your arm at shoulder height.  Stretch your arm at full length, moving slowly back and forth at shoulder level. Change legs and repeat on the other side.  Start with 12 repetitions and slowly increase to 20 (4 sets)

Place the Go Fit band under your foot and handles in each hand.  Starting with the bands at head height in a V position then slowly lower to your hip level then back up to full extension. Try to do 4 reps- 12  times on each side.  Remember to keep your core strong and take the arch out of your back.  You will feel a nice burn in your biceps.  The key to seeing results from these arm exercises, like all fitness routines, is form and safety.  Ladies, you know the arms are one of the first to say "Adios"  If you can stick to a routine you will see a difference.

Place your feet in parallel position with a portion of  the Go Fit band under your foot. With one hand by your side and the other stretched to your full extension so your wrist is facing forward- you are going to keep your working arm close to your head then lower slowly down to your shoulder - then reach back up to your full extension.  Make sure to keep your core strong and take the arch out of your back.  I like to do 4 reps of 12.  Ouch! I love it when I can feel that burn, because you know it's working.  When we are on vacation I do a quick 15 minute workout in the hotel room or I  just step outside.  There are so many great arm exercises that are easy, and you can do them anywhere. I like to work my arms 3 times a week with the bands.  Do what works for you and choose the band with a resistance appropriate to your strength and the exercise you are doing.  I am not a trainer.  I love to workout with my girlfriends and it's fun to share our different routines.  Nothing better than toning and laughing at the same time.  Have a great day.  Stay Fit & Healthy!   Nike shoes Nike tights Nike sports bra

Don't forget to Be Grateful.  Your vessel is precious.