2016 ULTIMATE “FITMAS” GIFT GUIDE

‘Tis (already!) the season of giving, and time for our 3rd Annual Ultimate “FITMAS” Gift Guide!  We can’t think of a better way to spoil your loved ones than with a gift that will motivate and encourage them on their quest to live a fit and healthy lifestyle.

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE gift giving.  I especially love it when I find that PERFECT gift that I just know will be a huge hit.  Bonus points if it is something cute, functional and unexpected, but that suits the recipient JUST perfectly.  However, finding that perfect gift can sometimes be a little stressful, especially when you’re crunched for time.  And, let’s face it, at this time of year, we’re ALL a little crunched for time.  So, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of my FAVORITE gifts of the season for all the FIT GALS in your life, to save you a little time and effort. Just think of it as your one-stop-fit-gift-shop!  I’ve hand selected some of my favorite products from a variety of price ranges, and compiled them here in our 2016 Ultimate “FITMAS” Gift Guide.  The best part??  You’re perfect gifts are just a click away!  No need to deal with crowded mall parking lots and grumpy shoppers when you can shop from the comfort of your own home, preferably in PJs and slippers. <3

Plus, if you think you might be on the “nice list” this year, you’ll definitely want to add a few of these things to your own wish list!  And, don’t forget to remind Santa that you’d love some of these fit-gifts too!

2016-fitmas-guide-sm-post-1

THE GIFTS:

fun-fit-tanks-for-blogFun, Sassy Workout Tanks ($26-$27) from Moxie Fitness Apparel – I know I’m a little biased, but I do happen to believe that a super cute, super fun workout tank makes the perfect gift for just about any fun, fab fit-gal on your list.  I mean, who wouldn’t love an adorable tank that will help motivate them to get moving?  These ones are so cute, they can be worn in or OUT of the gym!
trigger-point-the-grid-foam-roller-pink

Trigger Point Foam Roller ($32) from Amazon – If you have a loved one who enjoys hitting the gym, they’re going to love YOU for thinking of this awesome foam roller as a gift. The ridged design and hollow core make this a super effective roller.  It’s small enough to fit in a suitcase (with clothes stuffed inside for maximum space conservation), and comes with an instructional DVD.  Bonus…it comes in PINK!

teeki-elephantPrint Workout Leggings & Capris ($42-$72) from Moxie Fitness Apparel – So many adorable prints, so little time!  Moxie has perfect prints for every style and workout.  They’re so cute, you won’t be embarrassed running one (or 5!) errands on the way home from the gym.  Is she a yoga lover? She’ll be obsessed with the Love the Elephant hot pants.  Is she super sweet & sassy?  Grab the Sugar Skulls.  Is she bright, bold & beautiful? She’ll love the Pineapple or Blue Leopard capris.

S’well Water Bottlepink-swell ($25-$45) from Nordstrom – If you haven’t tried one of these double-walled stainless-steel water bottles, you need to!  They keep your water cold for up to 24 hours (even in a hot car!), or hot for up to 12 hours.  They are available in 3 sizes, and S’well has the CUTEST selection of designs on the market. I love the Bikini Pink (pictured) and the Sparkling Champagne, but you’ll definitely find something cute for just about anyone on your list, even the guys!

Piper Wai Natural Deodorant ($15.99) from Amazon – Got stocking stuffers??  This natural deodorant certainly fits the bill!  If you’re anything like me, you *know* you (and your loved ones) should be using a natural deodorant, but are afraid it won’t work as well as your tried and true (chemical filled) brand.  Hey, we fitness peeps sweat a lot, and we don’t want to be stinky! Well, I’ve done my share of research on why we need to suck it up piper-wai-deodorantand make the switch to natural (just trust me on this one…you need to do it, now). I’ve also tried many brands to find one that really works.  So, I thought I’d save you some time and $ and let you know that this one works!! It’s sans applicator, which takes some getting used to, but it definitely keeps the smell at bay, even in your sweatiest workout class. Your pits will thank you!

wrap-braceletsMotivational Wrap Bracelet ($19) from Moxie Fitness Apparel – More stocking stuffers!  With a variety of motivational sayings and colors, these make the PERFECT gift for your favorite fitness instructor, your sister, your best friend, your hairdresser…you name it! She will love it.  The bracelet is made from a soft, stretchy jersey type fabric that wraps several times around the wrist.  It is super comfy, doesn’t slip, slide or move around while you work out, and is as motivating as it is adorable.  Grab a few of these to have as gifts on hand…you can’t go wrong!

The Universe Has Your Back ($14.99) from Amazon – This book right here is an absolute GAME CHANGER! I have already listened to the audio version twice, and universe-bookam also reading the hardcover book so that I can highlight and take notes. It’s been a while since I’ve read such a great book. It teaches the tools and mindset you need to tap into the loving power of the universe, and has completely rocked my world. This book makes an amazing gift…the perfect stocking stuffer for anyone who enjoys personal development, or wants to feel more connected to the universe, live a happier, more peaceful life, manifest abundance, or just feel more grounded and connected. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this one.

vitamixVitamix Blender ($450) from Costco – So, this one is definitely a splurge for someone who has been REALLY good this year. BUT, they will love you forever and ever and ever for this one! And, that’s exactly how long this gift will last…forever!  I wanted a Vitamix for YEARS before I finally decided to bite the expensive bullet and go for it.  In the meantime, I tried blenders from Cuisinart, Ninja, and many more, and I can tell you from experience that the Vitamix is worth every penny. Many of the others claim they can do as good of a job, but sadly, they just can’t compare.  I use mine EVERY DAY and honestly can’t imagine my life without it.  Is it sad that I feel that way about a blender?? I guess that’s a topic for another blog post 😉

trucker-hats-blogTrucker Hats ($20) from Moxie Fitness Apparel – Adorable stocking stuffer alert! These motivational trucker hats are TOO CUTE, and the price point is even cuter! Wear them running, to the gym, or around town when you just don’t feel like washing your hair. You can definitely spoil ALL the fit-chicks on your list with one of these.  #sweatyhairdontcare


goal-getter-journalGoal Getter Fitspiration Journal ($24) from Amazon – How cute is this fitness journal? Not only is it an adorable place to track your daily workouts, but it also provides daily motivation, healthy tips, goal setting and more.  What a cute and thoughtful way to encourage someone on their health & fitness journey!

beatsearbudsurBeats Earbuds ($96) from Amazon – Rocking your favorite tunes is definitely a must when you’re working out, and you can’t beat the sound quality from these Beats earbuds.  A little less expensive and definitely less bulky than the Beats on-ear headphones, they are perfect for going on a long run or hitting the gym. I love the pink or the gold, but there are definitely colors to suit every style!

garmin35Garmin Forerunner 35 ($199) at Amazon – This smart fitness watch has everything you need to meet your fitness goals…GPS to track your run, a built in heart rate monitor (no extra strap required!), al day activity/step tracking, vibration alerts, music controls and automatic uploads. This watch will definitely help you take your running, and fitness, to the next level!  Plus, we love the adorable frost blue color <3

Bombas Invisible Socks ($12) bombassocksfrom Bombas- Socks for Christmas?? Yes!  Let me tell you…I am a STICKLER about no-show socks.  I’ve tried them ALL in my quest to find the PERFECT no show socks to wear with my workout shoes.  The requirements: 1) They must truly be no-show.  They can’t show a little, and certainly can’t show a lot. No-showing allowed. Period. 2) They must not slip off the heel.  Need I say more on that one?  Like I said, I have tried a LOT of socks, and these ones NAILED IT. They don’t show AND they don’t slip.  Plus, they come in 4 different neutral colors, just in case a teeny piece of the sock might accidentally try to peek its little edge out the top of your shoe. If you get it, you get it. And if you get it, you need these socks for yourself and all your equally anal no-show friends.

collagen-peptidesCollagen Peptides ($40) from Amazon – Ok, so I get that this one might sound a little strange, but trust me, your health & fitness loving friends and family will thank you.  Collagen peptides protein powder is my newest healthy obsession.  I put it in my coffee and add it to my protein shakes.  It’s excellent for my skin, my joints, my hair and my nails.  Plus, it adds a little extra boost of protein! This powder easily dissolves in hot or cold liquids, and is virtually tasteless.  I’m also crushing on the Primal Kitchen protein bars made with collagen protein.  Healthy, dairy-free, paleo protein that makes me look younger?? Sign me UP!

bicbandsBicBands Non-Slip Headbands ($12-$15) from BicBands – Keeping hair and sweat out of your eyes while working out is a must.  And, if you’re a girl, chances are you’ve spent a lot of time and money trying to figure out the best way to accomplish this.  BicBands are definitely a helpful tool in the arsenal of the fit & busy!  They definitely stay in place, they’re comfy, and they come in a huge assortment of adorable patterns and colors. Love!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

 

 

My Favorite Fall Read

Hi Fit Friends!universe-book

I usually try to keep this page focused on nutrition and fitness, but sometimes I stumble across something that’s just too good not to share. This book right here is an absolute GAME CHANGER! I have already listened to the audio version twice, and am also reading the hardcover book so that I can highlight and take notes. It’s been a while since I’ve read such a great book. It teaches the tools and mindset you need to tap into the loving power of the universe, and has completely rocked my world. I hope you love it as much as I do!

Grab your copy of The Universe Has Your Back on Amazon or Audible today! This book makes an amazing gift as well…the perfect stocking stuffer for anyone who enjoys personal development, or wants to feel more connected to the universe, live a happier, more peaceful life, manifest abundance, or just feel more grounded and connected.  Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this one.

 

2015 Ultimate “FITMAS” Gift Guide

‘Tis the season of giving, and time for our 2nd Annual Ultimate “FITMAS” Gift Guide!  We can’t think of a better way to spoil your loved ones than with an gift that will motivate and encourage them on their quest to live a fit and healthy lifestyle.

I love giving thoughtful gifts to show my friends and family how much I care, but figuring out that perfect gift can sometimes be stressful too! We’ve scoured the internet to find our favorite health and fitness items, and compiled them into our 2015 Ultimate “FITMAS” Gift Guide in hopes that it will give you some great gift ideas for all the fitness loving friends & family members on your holiday shopping list. With everything from apparel and shoes to workout and kitchen tools, we’ve included items to match every budget.  This list is SURE to have something perfect for anyone who’s  fit and fabulous!  And the best part…you can skip the crowds and click your way to the perfect gift.

Plus, if you’ve been really good, you can add a few of these things to your own wish list and hope that Santa gets the memo that you’d love a Merry “FITMAS” too!

2016 -Fitmas- Gift Guide - Social Media Post & Blog Graphic (1)

The Shopping List:

  1. Cute Sassy Workout Tanks $26 from Moxie Fitness Apparel – How can she not be motivated to go to the gym when she has these adorable, sassy tank tops to wear?  From the bright colors to the fun sayings, Moxie has tank tops that will make her smile while she crushes her workout.
  2. Lebert Fitness Equalizer Bars $123 from Amazon (includes DVD) – A fun and unique piece of equipment that any home gym needs!  The Lebert Equalizer is a simple, portable, yet multi-purpose and versatile piece of strength training equipment that works arms, chest, back and core muscles like no other can by using your own body weight as resistance.  Plus, we LOVE that they come in PINK!
  3. Fruit Infusing Water Bottle $16 from Moxie Fitness Apparel – Hydration has never been so motivating!  This fruit infusing water bottle makes your water as delicious as it is cute. Just add water, and something fun…strawberries, melon, cucumber, mint, lemon…be creative! Cheers!
  4. The Combo Yoga Mat $68 from Amazon – The perfect gift for any yogi on your list!  This mat is not only bright and adorable, but is actually two awesome products in one. The ultra absorbent microfiber top layer (designed to grip better with sweat) is bonded to a 3.5mm naturally biodegradable tree rubber mat bottom for a lightweight, extra durable and well cushioned support. You no longer need to bring a separate mat AND towel to class. Our favorite part…it’s machine washable!  See ya later, stinky yoga mat!
  5. Asics GEL-Fit Sana Cross Training Shoes $80 from Amazon – These shoes are SUPER comfortable, lightweight and versatile. Dance. Lift. Sweat. The Asics Sana training shoe is ready to take on almost any workout the gym can throw at you. It’s ultra-lightweight design is perfectly balanced with a Flexible Fit upper that gives you support in every direction, as well as the flexibility for intense dynamic movement.  Plus, they come in a variety of fun colors!
  6. Print Workout Leggings $68-74 from Moxie Fitness Apparel – Good bye boring black…HELLO pretty prints!  Spice up your workout with some bold prints and bright colors.  Available in capris or full length leggings, these adorable pants are both flattering and fun!  These are cute enough to wear both in or out of the gym.
  7. Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity Tracker $79 from Amazon – Make fitness a lifestyle with Fitbit Flex—a slim, stylish device that tracks all-day activity like steps, distance, calories burned and active minutes. See how every day stacks up with LEDs that light up like a scoreboard as you get closer to your goal. Then wear it at night to measure your sleep quality and wake with a silent, vibrating alarm. Day or night, Flex fits comfortably around your wrist, is water-resistant, and has a 5-day battery life. It also syncs to computers and 150+ leading smartphones, so you can access your stats anywhere and see your progress in charts and graphs.
  8. Muscles & Mascara Long Sleeve Dolman Top $35 from Moxie Fitness Apparel – Something cute & sassy to wear to and from the gym.  Who ever said girlie-girls don’t love to be strong, anyway?  With cute gold foil embellishment, and a wide neck fit, this is definitely a “must have” to keep you fashionable on your way to and from the gym!
  9. Paderno Spiral Vegetable Slicer $29 from Amazon – The possibilities are endless with this healthy kitchen gadget.  Turn almost any veggie (zucchini, sweet potatoes, beets, etc.) into healthy “noodles” and give your favorite recipes a makeover.  Need some inspiration? Check out some of my Fit & Busy recipes like Zoodle Bolognese or Healthy Scampi, or include a great Inspiralized Cookbook ($11.99 on Amazon).
  10. Beats Solo Wired Headphones  $157 from Amazon – I mean, bright pink Beats headphones?? Yes, please!  These are definitely a bit of a splurge, but for a fitness loving gal who has everything, this is a gift that can’t miss.  The sound quality and comfort can’t be beat, and they’re bright pink!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

Healthy Chocolate Chip Protein Pancakes

IMG_1533My kids love pancakes for breakfast, but I’m not a fan of filling them up with a plate full of carbs to start their day.  So, I love experimenting with protein pancake recipes!  Protein pancakes can pack a nutritional punch, give lasting energy, and they make my kiddos super happy.

Our favorite protein pancakes are pretty basic, and are made with ingredients I usually have on hand.  We love them because they are easy to whip up, they stay super moist, and because you can flavor them in so many ways.  Today, my kids asked for chocolate chip pancakes, so I let them add some Lily’s brand sugar free chocolate chips to the batter.  They thought they were getting a treat, and I knew it was guilt free…a total win/win!  Sometimes we add blueberries, or make a yummy berry & yogurt topping.  The possibilities are endless!

Quick & Easy Protein Pancake Recipe:
*makes approx 3 servings

1 Cup Rolled Oats
1 Cup Cottage Cheese (can sub Greek Yogurt) – we use low fat, but non-fat works as well
1 Cup Egg Whites
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
1 Tsp Cinnamon
10-15 Drops Stevia

Optional Add Ins:
1/4C Sugar Free Chocolate Chips (we prefer Lily’s Brand), plus more for sprinkling on top
OR 1/2C Fresh blueberries
Sliced strawberries for garnish

Directions:
Place oats in blender and blend until it becomes like a coarse flour
Add in all other ingredients and blend until smooth
If your batter is too thick, add a tablespoon of almond milk and blend some more
Once blended, add any optional add-ins you like and stir with a spoon
Spray heated skillet with coconut oil, and cook pancakes as usual
Top with an extra sprinkle of chocolate chips and/or berries

Try these out and let me know how you like them!  They are definitely a staple breakfast item in our house, and a real crowd pleaser.  ENJOY!

Cheers to quick, clean cooking!

xoxo,
Malea

Nutritional Information Per Serving (recipe makes approx 3 servings)
Cal 259, Carbs 28g, Fat 6g, Protein 24g, Sugar 1g

 

It’s LEG DAY, Baby!!!

Don’t ya’ just love leg day??  I sure do!  There are SO many reasons to focus on building lean muscles in our legs & glutes, that you can either LOVE leg day, or love to HATE leg day, but you have to embrace it either way.

Whether you are looking to lose weight, tone up, or just look and feel your best, your number one goal should be to increase your lean muscle mass.  We can only accomplish this by doing strength building exercises. Sorry to break it to you, my sweet cardio junkies, but if you want to make lasting changes, you need to build some muscle!

WHY??  Because muscle burns CALORIES!  The more lean muscle mass you have, especially in your large muscle groups (legs, glutes, chest, back, core), the faster your rate of metabolism will become.  Faster metabolism = more calories burned.  You can do cardio all day long, and while you will burn calories DURING your workout, you will have done nothing to increase your overall rate of metabolism, which will allow you to burn calories at a higher rate all throughout the day.

If you’d like to know a little more about why you should incorporate strength training into your workout, please check out this periscope broadcast where I explain why we (especially women) should be focusing more on strength training than cardio.

If you’re looking to shake up your leg day a bit, or you’re just getting started with strength training, I’ve put together a little leg day routine for you.  It’s is a quick and effective workout, using little to no equipment, that can be done just about anywhere. Not only will it get your legs burning, but it will also get your heart rate up, and even incorporates a little shoulder and core work.  Why not kill two birds with one stone, right?

If you’d like to see me showing the moves in person, here’s a link to the periscope broadcast where I walk you through the routine.  It’s a series of 4 sequences, each containing 3 different exercises to be completed for 1 minute each. The idea is to go through the entire thing twice for a well rounded strength routine that’s sure to build some muscle and have you breaking a sweat!

Here’s the workout:

LEG DAY Progressions

HAPPY SQUATTING!

xoxo,
Malea