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Posts Tagged ‘Women’s+Health’

March 7, 2013

Nita’s Famous 100′s Workout (“Hundreds Workout”) for the Best Legs in the World!

A lot of people have asked me over the years how to get “legs of steel.”  The fact is NOTHING will shred your legs up like doing these three things:

  1. eating lean (85% of the results you get in the gym come from your food intake- i.e., “diet”)
  2. combined with weight training  for maximum output (going to failure, whether its with a moderate weight- not super light, or a heavy weight for sets of even 8, as long as you are going until you cannot do even one more full rep)
  3. sprinting (HIIT-high intensity interval training- see my other blog for detailed explanations of HIIT by clicking here)

First, you can learn more about lean eating, sprinting and weight training by researching on the internet, or checking out the dieting tips category in the nitasworld.com blog (click here).  Of course, we talk a lot about clean eating and sprinting both in my book FIT FOR COMBAT with Nita Marquez, so ordering a copy for yourself to have on hand is not a bad idea for reference’s sake.  It may be helpful for those of you who like hardcopy materials to scribble notes onto.

Nita MarquezFor the purposes of this article, we are talking about the hundreds workout, as I vowed to share my secret to keeping conditioned legs and glutes via spelling out the hundreds workout.  My famous Hundreds workout is what works best for me in maximizing the effects of my leg workouts during all my year-round weight training regimens.  It’s called the Hundreds Workout (you’ll understand why shortly- read on) and I do it once every week, in addition to my regular leg weight workouts. So, that amounts to two workouts for my legs alone on weights each week.  If you’re a beginner, perhaps you should do the Hundreds Workout every other week, in addition to your regular weight training routine for legs.  *Remember, the Hundreds Workout is a CONDITIONING WORKOUT- It is not intended to grow, develop, or reduce leg size. It is meant to condition the detail, for a more sculpted look of your legs that you can’t get through cardio or basic weight training for maximum output.

 

*Nita Marquez Hundreds Workout:

25 Leg Extensions x 4

25 Leg Curls x 4

25 Hip Abductors x 4

25 Hip Adductors x 4

25 Squats x 4

25 Calf Raises x 4

Do a moderate weight that you don’t have to reduce throughout the workout, so that you can complete the whole set without a “drop-set” style of training.  Yet you want it to be heavy enough so that you can still feel it burning excessively by the 15th rep, making it difficult to finish the last ten reps of each set.

That’s it. By the time you’re done with my Hundreds Workout, you should feel exhausted, and ready to hit the jacuzzi, which won’t be a bad idea. The hot water and jets can be helpful to loosen up the muscles after this massive thrashing & conditioning workout you’ve just done.  Always remember to have a fast-assimilating protein after your workout! If you’re unsure of what to buy, check out the store here to see some protein shakes I recommend.  Of course you can always research online, too, checking out blogs & threads at siouxcountry.com.

Best of luck leaning out those legs, friends & fit moms! Be Well, Be You, BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!

-Nita Lee Marquez

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Nita Lee Marquez Fit Mom Knows Best

Fitness Expert/Author/Speaker/Fit Mom

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


February 28, 2013

40′s BLUES- Why Energy Levels Drop around age 40 and What can Help

I will be 40 May 30 of this year.  Ecstatic as I am (and I truly am excited, because all the women in my life tell me that the 40′s are the best years!), somehow, my body’s signs have been in disagreement.  My moods have been swinging, patience has been shorter, sleep patterns have changed drastically (I can’t help but wake up at 3 or 4 am, like clockwork!), and energy has been doing a roller coaster number for the past year.

Maintaining my physique has actually been the least of my concerns. In fact, aside from having three awesome kids, nearing age 40, I have found that continuing to workout has been my main grounding factor, as well as the only thing that has given me more energy throughout the days.  Eating better has definitely gotten easier with age, as I do believe that I am kind of “over it” with the “temptation” factor of food. These days, I eat to live and instead of living to eat. I experience and appreciate each day’s moments and accomplishments in order to “indulge.”  Therefore, my indulgences are seldom beset in food, because I have children, a career, and I still continue to dream and do all that I can to build great things in my life, both for my family and for just myself.

As I said, nearing the age of 40, I have noticed a decrease in mood stability, and I am usually a vibrant and happy person.  As well, my energy levels have begun to bounce extremely, making it less difficult to stay excited.  I started doing some research and I found out from a counselor friend who is 48 years old and gorgeous, that she herself had experienced similar things at about age 42, so she started taking a supplement call Sam-E.  I looked into it more, and yes, in fact as we near the aging of the 40′s, our bodies do slow down on the manufacturing of this amino acid derivative.  Also, of course, I know that B-12, and all B-vitamins are a huge component in energy levels. I have my own multi-vitamin formula that includes a beneficial B-complex blend, but I also increased my dosage of the B’s, specifically of the B-12 and B-3 vitamins.  I have a great liquid dropper of the B-12 made by NOW and I also got some additional capsules of Niacin (B-3), which help with circulation, energy, and seemingly for me, metabolism.  Doses of niacin should be researched considerably prior to intake, so as to avoid some possible side affects.

With the three in combination with my usual daily intake of supplements like Fish or Krill Oils, multi-vitamins, glutamine, and Echinacea/Vitamin-C combination, I have enjoyed the benefits of taking Sam-E, and additional B-vitamins.  I started by taking the Sam-E at the 200mg dosage daily and one B-12 dropperful with a Niacin capsule. I have already noticed a change in energy and moods.  In addition, I should tell you that I cut out coffee about three days prior to doing this new supplementation combination regimen.  It’s been helpful, tremendously!  I have a lot more patience on the road (and in Los Angeles, that is difficult), I am less snappy with people, and I am getting a different, better type of rest now that I am back to maximizing the day’s hours.  I did not add in any melatonine or sleep aids at any point because I wanted to see the change in my patterns simply by adding the Sam-E/B-Vitamin combo.  It’s fabulous!

I recommend you do your own research, and start out with the lowest dosages (while removing caffeine pills or coffee for the first week, for the purposes of accurate energy measurement) of Sam-E and B-Vitamins 3 & 12.  Increase as needed, and pay attention to your body.  The age of beauty, inside and out, is definitely 40, and I am truly looking forward to it. If you’re not, then feel free to search out natural ways of maximizing what you have in you to offer not only to yourself and your family, but also what you are destined to bestow on the world with your wonderful energy! Be Well, Be You, BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!

-Nita Lee Marquez

    facebook/twitter/instagramFit Mom

Fit Mom Knows Best! BIG Energy at 40!

 


February 7, 2013

The Foods We Eat- Fit Mom Knows Best!

I have been in the fitness industry since 1998, and in that time, I have taken baby steps at some points, and leaped strides in others.  Knowing that I grew up with weight struggles and many addictive behaviors, many people have asked me what has been most difficult for me to change in living more fit over the years. To that, I always say that the food has been the biggest challenge to overcome, but overcome it, I have! If I can change from a processed and fast food lifestyle to living fit with my three beautiful children, I know anyone is capable of it.

There are steps, not always big steps, that can create big change.  Here are some great tips for a quick change in both your physical appearance as well as your energy levels:

1) Drink at least a gallon of water daily

You don’t have to drink it all at once! Just carry around a liter bottle and drink & refill it 4 times, and that will be an easier way to manage your intake.

Start with 1-2 liters daily, and gradually increase from there. Trust me, you will crave more, the more you drink, if you drink water in these amounts consistently.

The more water you drink, the more you will pee, most definitely, but you will flush out toxic build-up, thereby increasing your energy levels!

Nita Marquez educates on hydration

Water- It does a body good!

 

2) Pull the high-sodium foods

Traditionally known amongst fitness experts and nutritionists, we say that one “cheat” day per week makes sense.  You won’t cause much damage that one day, and eventually, you may not even want as much “junk” on your cheat day as you have starting out.

High sodium foods include:

    • canned foods (unless noted as “no salt added” – even the “low-sodium” soups and canned foods still have a lot of sodium if you’re someone who is trying to manage their weight or blood pressure).
    • processed foods, like frozen tv dinners, burritos, pizzas, even Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig and Nutri-System have TONS of sodium in their meal packets and frozen meals.
    • packaged foods, like anything out of a bag or a box, tends to have a higher than desired sodium content.
    • jarred foods, like pickles, salsas or anything else that is out of the jar, ready-to-eat
    • condiments & sauces, like ketchup, bbq sauces, dressings, even mayonnaise has a lot of sodium most of the time!
    • dairy, like milk, yogurt, some ice creams, butter, fake butter

I’m certainly not saying that you should completely cut these foods out of your diet, but if you are trying to manage weight or blood pressure, most often some of the excess weight can be dropped by pulling sodium and drinking more water.  This is due to the fact that the first 8-20 pounds of weightloss on everyone tends to be water weight, and if you can just cut back on these foods that cause the water-retention, while drinking more water, you can usually lose that water weight quickly.  The less junk you eat with sodium, the less water you’ll hold, and the less water you hold, the less lethargic you will feel.

These foods are simply something that you can, in baby steps, begin to cut back on and eventually eliminate, and the water is simply a rule of thumb that you can work up to, from the suggested 1-2 liters daily.  The health tips can remedy blood pressure issues, weight management challenges, energy levels, skincare issues, and bloated stomachs.  Try it, and feel free to post to this blog or email me at nitasworld.com.

That’s my tip for today! Remember to Be Well, Be You, BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!

-Nita Lee Marquez

Nita Lee Marquez Fit Mom Knows Best


February 6, 2013

Fit Moms Know Best! Keeping Your Family Fit with Fish!

I love fish!! I am a Pescatarian, so I eat fish for my primary protein source. This is an important post about fish: According the the EPA, these are the fish with the lowest Mercury content… Women who breastfeed, pregnant women and children under age 6 should not eat these fish more than twice weekly, and should avoid all other fish that are considered moderate-high in mercury content…
Clam
Crab
Crawfish
Flounder
Haddock
Herring
Mackerel
Mullet
Oyster
Perch
Pollock
Salmon
Sardine
Scallop
Shrimp
Sole
Squid
Tilapia
Trout
Whitefish
At the same time, while some of these fish have low mercury content, and thus are not cause for mercury concern for the average woman or man or child over age 6, there are other things people need to consider when eating fish.  If the fish is not wild-caught (and it’s packaging will note “WILD CAUGHT”), it is “farm-raised” in a very toxic environment, enclosed in very tight-quartered pens (in lakes or ponds)- an environment which is so unhealthy, contained, and tainted that the fish tend to have more disease, fat, and dye than wild fish.  What’s even more interesting (actually, it’s disgusting) is that these fish are fed a corn-substance because it’s the cheapest way to get them fat for the purposes of making more money on them.  The corn is often loaded with chemicals and antibiotics, which can disrupt or even damage our internal functions.  Gross!
When thinking about what to eat, make sure that you consider fish, because it is a tremendously beneficial food.  Fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help break down lipids (fats) in our bodies, and it’s protein content is superior to poultry or redmeat (in that it assimilates more readily).  Fish is also known for having amazing anti-aging property in its oils.
Honestly, I, Nita Marquez (www.nitasworld.com), am a huge fish-lover, and at almost 40 years of age, with 3 children, I feel LOTS more energetic than I did at 22!  I believe that my pescatarian eating style has had everything to do with keeping my skin soft, smooth, tight, wrinkle-free, and most of all- GLOWING.  With a lean raw-food, fish-based daily food regimen that includes beans, all the right spices, and lots of salsa, I believe that fish has truly kept me young!  Try it for yourself and feel free to let me know by either posting to the blog, or email me at the website! BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!
Nita Lee Marquez, America’s Hottest Fit Mom
Author/Fitness Expert/Motivational Speaker
Nita Marquez

October 25, 2012

The Two Most Important Fitness Tips for Fit Moms

One of the things I have found to be tried and true in the life of training to be a Fit Mom, is that I can fit my kids into my fitness NO MATTER what age they are.  The other thing I found to be tried and true fact is that you can do anything you want, but you can’t all of it right now, a common disappointment to those of us who want to rush it all and do it all, like the commonly over-achieving Fit Mom tends to  attempt to do.

Fit Moms have a nack for balancing tons at once- we are the ultimate multi-taskers.  We don’t need to be reminded to go to the gym, or to take care of our children, to balance checks, pay bills, stay motivated to work hard, or things that we are known for our brilliant management of.

However, it’s important to our health that we remember the soothers in life, as these are the things that will keep us capable of our most awesome of awesomeness for the long term, while also helping us stay sane and even happy.  After all, happiness is the whole point of living, right?  The two main things we fit moms tend to neglect, but can stand to pay more attention to are:


  • Rest- Sleep is necessary for our bodies (muscles and organs) to recouperate, and that recouperation is when our recovery from usage takes place.  Sleeping 6-8 hours nightly is often difficult for us to force ourselves to do.  When people don’t sleep enough, we burn out our health, and lose our patience easier.  Keeping it all together for the long term requires proper sleep. For without proper recovery, we can cause health risks and moodiness that make it impossible to enjoy our lives.

Sleep deprivation has been proven to lead to… weight gain… increases in inuslin resistance (which leads to diabetes)…” says Dr. Ann E. Rogers, who has studied the effects of sleep with test subject groups and individuals.


  • Affection- Being adored, adoring ourselves, and adoring others amps the “yippee” chemicals in our brain.  Whoever said a cocktail was the only way to wind down and smile at the end of a long day?  Taking the time to hold our children, our companions, or our friends & family for long embraces actually stimulates the secretion of endorphines, which lead our brains and bodies to experience joy.  ASU’s Associate Professor, Kory Floyd, has studied the effects of affection extensively.  People’s organ capabilities, blood pressure, weight management, and overall health can be managed better with affectionate behavior.

Affection can be a simple, non-pharmaceutical, cheap way to reduce stress.”  Floyd has found that there are direct associations between being an affectionate person and a lower risk of depression and stress.

Thus we see that no matter how healthy we eat, how much we exercise, how much we extend to our children, and no matter how many tasks of responsibility we cover in our daily lives, we could be actually limiting ourselves, and our years, if we are not taking care to rest and embrace on a daily basis as well! Sleep and Love, life’s combo remedy to help longevity!

Enjoy & Empower! Be PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!

www.NitasWorld.com

Fit Mom

-Nita Lee Marquez, America's Hottest Fit Mom Creator/Fitness Empowerment Author/Miss National Fitness/Fit Mom of 3

 

 


October 1, 2012

Fit Mom Achieves Fat Loss and Tighter Skin- See for yourself!

There’s been a lot of talk about something called The Ultimate Body Applicator, also known as a body wrap. Made by It Works Global. You may have seen the ads for them. They might go something like this, “Firm, tighten, and tone in as little as 45 minutes!” “Lose weight immediately!” “Get your sexy back!”

I’ve done a lot of research on them and I’ve tried and tested them and I’m hoping to answer a lot of questions that people have, such as: Do they really work? How do they work? Is it a scam? Will I really loose inches in only 45 minutes? How long does the weight stay off? Is it just water weight? How many inches will I lose? How often do I need to wrap?

cellulite solutions include the "my it works" regimen, they are simple and they make you look and feel GREAT!

I’m going to start by saying that in my experience the wrap does in fact work and is not a scam. I’m a mother of three and I’m very active and healthy, and I try to live and lead a healthy lifestyle. It’s taken me almost 2 years to get back to my pre baby weight. I was very disappointed when I noticed the more weight I lost the looser my skin got. It started to sag and would hang over my tighter jeans. I was extremely uncomfortable with it to the point that I was thinking of getting a tummy tuck and cutting off what was left. My cousin had a good experience with a wrap, and I was so excited to try one. My first wrap I only lost .5 inches, but I saw tightening and toning immediately. That was it for me. I was sold. I am so glad to have found the Ultimate Body Applicator. It kept me from having to spend a fortune, and having to get cut open by a doctor. I have lost a total of 5 inches, which may not seem like much, but it sure has been a confidence booster for me. I feel much better about myself, and am not self-conscience anymore. I feel beautiful!

 

 

Skinny wrap before and afters

 

The average inch loss is 1-3 inches per wrap. Some women lose more, some lose less. Everybody is different. I’ve seen as much as 7 inches lost with just one wrap.

It is NOT water weight you’re actually encouraged to drink as much water during the wrap as you can, as well as for the next 72 hours. The applicator should not be compared to or confused with a diuretic. You don’t want to sweat while the wrap is on as this could clog your pours.

How does the wrap work? The body applicator is worn for a minimum of 45 minutes, (I’d suggest 1 to 2 hours), and it actually continues to process or detox for 72 hours after it is removed. You can put the applicator on any part of your body to spot reduce and see immediate lasting results. It’s a very strong detox, so it’s not recommended to do more than one area at the same time. The body applicator is infused with an all-natural botanical formula that causes the pores in the skin to open and allow the product to penetrate the skin and into the deeper layers getting right to the fat cells where it forces toxins out. Those toxins are then picked up by the blood stream and filtered through the kidneys and essentially are eliminated through your urine. This product is perfect for shrinking fat cells. It also works as an anti-inflammatory and helps with overall skin appearance, to give your skin a youthful look. Everybody’s skin processes differently. Some medications store in your cells for a long time and it may take longer to process. This is a healthy cleanse for your body. You are actually feeding your body something healthy!

 

 

How long do the inches stay off? It’s like any diet. If you lose a bunch of weight and then go back to your old ways you’ll what? Gain it all back, right? Same with this, except your results will last 2-6 months. So.. Drink a little more water, a little less pop, add some fruits and veggies to your diet, and try to eat three meals a day with small snacks in between. As long as you’re trying to be healthier the inches will stay off indefinitely.

Three things can happen with a wrap. One – You’ll see measurable results. The Ultimate Body Applicator is successful for the majority of users the very first time it’s used. Second – Nothing may happen. Although most begin to see improvements and inch loss after the first application some may take 3-4 applications to achieve optimal results. Those who are on medications and/or who have toxic systems (not regular) may fit in this category. Third – You may gain inches. If this is the case DO NOT be alarmed! This is actually a good thing! The Applicator will cause the toxins in the body to get stirred up, which will initially cause the body to bloat and produce an apparent gain in inches. Drinking a large amount of water within the next couple of days following the use of the Applicator will allow the body to flush the toxins and many have then seen a significant inch loss as a result!

Inch loss is not the only benefit from the Applicator. It also defines, tightens, tones and firms the skin, and visibly enhances the body’s contours. It also diminishes the appearance of cellulite and skin slackening. Improves the elasticity, moisturizes and vitalizes the skin, leaving it smooth and flexible with a youthful and fresh appearance.

With the Ultimate Body Applicator results are progressive. With each treatment you will be more pleased with your results. Every 72 hours, or at least once a week application is recommended for continuous, progressive results and for ongoing maintenance. The more consistent and diligent you are in applying the Applicator the better the results!

Additional products are available to help you get the best results from the applicator. Other products may also help by increasing metabolic activity, suppressing appetite, reducing fat and carbohydrate intake, to become more regular, and increase energy.

I hope that I’ve answered any questions you may have, but most of all I hope that I’ve done the Ultimate Body Applicator the justice that it deserves because it truly is a wonderful product.

If you’d like more information about The Ultimate Body Applicator or any of the other amazing products you’re welcome to contact me. I’m also looking for distributors in other areas to help spread the word.

Thank you,

Julie Holmes, Mom-trepreneur My It Works! USA

     betterbod.myitworks.com

     like my business and see that “my it works” for you!

     www.facebook.com/betterbod

 


July 9, 2012

Cellulite- The Real Solutions

Believe it or not, cellulite is not a result of just being fat or flabby.  Cellulite is a major stress to most women, because we are the only ones who really get cellulite.  The dimply, loose, cottage cheese appearance of those areas of cellulite are not even caused just by age.

The reality is that cellulite is a result of the bands of connective tissue in a woman’s body running in a different direction than our skin.  By nature that skin can stretch, disconnect and collect fat more readily than a man’s body.  Some people think it’s a matter of the nature of things, and that maybe God himself made us to collect fat more easily for the purposes of carrying life within us.  Whereas, a man’s connective tissue runs more along with the skin, allowing for better binding from the skin to the connective tissue, which in nature would directly affect their bodies support to muscularity, rather than fat storage.  Some would say that it’s because by nature men were intended to be hunter gatherers.  Who knows?? The bottom line is they don’t get cellulite.

In the fact that men are generally more muscular, and traditionally are hunter gatherers, I wonder if there may be some truth to the lifetime(s) of conditioning that you see in people whose bodies don’t typically carry cellulite.  What I’ve noticed over the years for myself, as opposed to the women in my family, is that because I cross train (weight training combined with running, hiking, plyometrics, and dance/gymnastics) and eat a high protein diet, I have conditioned my body for a more muscular toned look.  Whereas the women in my family are all very beautiful and soft-skinned, and they all retained their youth quite well through the aging process, they still struggle tremendously with cellulite.  Since I’m genetically pre-disposed to cellulite (yes, the cellulite is going to happen, but how bad it can get is often contingent to our genetics), I still fight it, but the fact is because I weight train, I am constantly working the muscles for conditioning, so I appear to have very little cellulite in comparison to my genetic precedents.

cellulite is a result of connective tissue direction under the skin, but can be reduced with cross training and eating high protein

a cellulite butt without weight training/ cross training

Cellulite is a result of the direction of connective tissue in a woman’s body. You cannot change the direction of your connective tissue, as it will always run opposite the skin.  Nothing will ever change that we can get cellulite.  Also, you cannot alter the genetic ancestry you possess within your family’s lines. If the women have tons of cellulite, you are inheriting that genetic code.  However, there are things you can do to condition the genetic code you have toward cellulite, and I know because I have done it myself.

If you weight train, you increase connective tissue activity so that it does not worsen, but can get better with age through constant conditioning.  In this case, it’s a lifestyle to workout daily, not an option.  That’s the reality.  In addition to weight training, you have to do other things to exercise so that you are stimulating collagen production (which also aids in skin health and the ability to visibly reduce cellulite).  If you get your body used to doing the exact same things with the muscles all the time, then the lack of versatility causes complacency within our muscles and connective tissue. Thus you must always be changing activities, mixing and matching, along with your weight training (which should be your core focus if you want to reduce cellulite).

Cardio and interval training help your body in the fat burning and high-calorie burning department, and they enhance weight training on whatever level you do any of this.  Thus, what I have learned for myself is that running, sprinting, dancing, plyometrics (jumping and explosive and agility training), hiking, step mill, stairmaster, elliptical, and hanging out walking at events with my kiddos, have all been really effective.  Effectively, all of the aforementioned activities coinciding with weight training have helped me to condition my genetic code in such a way that I don’t struggle as much with cellulite as the women in my family, and I’ve struggled even less with the war on cellulite as I have gotten older (I’m now 39).

On top of the collagen and the connective tissue activity stimulation, some other ways that women can avoid cellulite with cross training is through the ongoing stimulation of better circulation. The better the bloodflow, the better your skin and muscles.  Also, working the explosive fast-twitch fibers of the muscles creates a more conditioned appearance and can also support your efforts to reduce cellulite’s gross appearance.  In addition, with good diet, you can decrease the amount of subcutaneous water retention. When you retain water from poor diet (too many processed foods or too much sodium or dehydration) or you’re too inactive, your body will retain water and fill those open cellulite pockets between the connective tissue and the muscle.

Nita Marquez says to stay hydrated for fat-loss benefits

hydration helps metabolize fat and shed cellulite

lose butt fat cross training

a butt with weight training and interval training

The exercise cross-training is key, but also diet has a very hearty role in the reduction of cellulite.  Higher protein diets rich in leafy greens and raw foods tend to stimulate all the same things mentioned above: circulation, collagen, less water retention, better digestion (so as not to retain excessive toxins), overall glow of the skin and muscular nourishment.  It’s as important to eat healthy as it is to exercise when it comes to reducing cellulite.  As well, it’s as important to drink lots of water as it is to eat healthy and cross-train.  Too little water causes dehydration, and dehydration causes water retention, which causes more dimples in cellulite.

Weight training combined with cardio, interval training (you can find articles on interval training right here at nitasworld.com!), plyometrics, running, sprinting, elliptical, step mill, stair masters, dancing, and whatever other effective high-fat-burning exercises are the foundation for cellulite reduction.  Couple this activity regimen with high protein and leafy greens and lots of water (a gallon a day is rule of thumb) and you will reduce cellulite!

Remember you can’t get rid of cellulite, but you can condition your body to have less of it with this lifestyle.  That’s why you rarely see cellulite on competitive physique athletes.  Those who live the lifestyle look sculpted and toned year round.

I believe that my lifestyle has altered this for me and I continue to smoothen the areas of my skin that seem to be camping areas for cellulite.  Though I will continue to be at war with cellulite because of my body’s inherent predisposition to cellulite by virtue of the natural direction of my connective tissue, I see that my active lifestyle continues to change and improve the appearance of my body, and I love living fit because of it! Additionally, I feel better, happier with my appearance, and more confident and energized.

Now one last thing I tell everyone, BE HAPPY. Joy can help reduce the amount of cortisol (the body’s toxic product of stress) we manufacture. Cortisol manages to make us hold toxins, stifle digestion, retain excess water, and overall, it leads us into an easier cellular breakdown (which causes aging AND cellulite- yuk!).  So the final key to cellulite reduction, and quite possibly more important than cellulite reduction- SMILE!  Be Well, Be You, BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!

-Nita Lee Marquez

Nita Marquez talks about fat loss with weight training and hydration

Nita Marquez America's Hottest Fit Mom™ TV Personality/Trainer/Author/Speaker

 

 


April 19, 2012

Lentil Bean Tacos

Lentils are great because they have no sodium, high protein, no fat, and moderate carbs (low-glycemic) with high fiber content.  I like them because being a pescatarian [someone who eats only fish for protein- although I enjoy my egg whites and whey shakes, too] :) They are definitely a great protein source for vegans, and really, lentils are great for anyone who is trying to be healthier and stronger. I recommend them as part of a high protein diet, as well as part of a diet that requires more fiber.

“Simple, fast and healthy meals are my only alternative.”

The best part about them is that they require little to no work for preparation. “3-minutes or less in prep time” is my rule, because as a single mother to three children who are all busy with their own careers and school and training, I simply don’t have time for anything more than this, whether I’m cooking for them or for myself.  Simple, fast and healthy meals are my only alternative.

As far as the taste of lentils, they can vary based on the spices used, of course.  My personal preference is the Indian combined with Mexican spices.  I am posting that style of lentils in this recipe today.  They taste so good, even my children like them! And the texture is so smooth, that you can even mash them into a paste and spread them like hummus. They are absolutely delicious! See me son here to get his feedback on them! In the meantime, feel free to post comments and join my facebook page or join our group at AmericasHottestFitMoms.com  to interact with the rest of the Fit Moms in the group and maybe talk about lentils and other fitness recipes and the fitness lifestyle. In the mean time, enjoy the lentils and BE PHENOMENAL!

Makes 2 servings:

1 cup lentils

1.5 cups water

2 tbsp olive oil

in desired amounts:

onion powder

garlic powder

curry powder

cumin powder

red pepper (cayenne, or dried red chili peppers- whichever you prefer)

himalayan salt (mild amounts for those who are sodium-sensitive)

and finally,

4 corn tortillas (i prefer yellow due to the rich flavor and also higher nutrient content)

Directions:

1. pour all ingredients, minus the corn tortillas, into a soup pan.

2. boil at medium heat (i usually boil it all for about 30 minutes).

3. turn off heat, stir, and cool until water is nearly dissolved.

4. as you wish, you may also add a little fresh squeezed lemon juice

5. spread onto your corn tortillas and munch away!


April 12, 2012

Meet Fit Mom & Fit Grandmother Jennifer Christenson

Wow, folks! I have heard about extraordinary fit moms, but I am so proud to introduce to you a former Arizona Fit Grandmother who is now in California. Jennifer Christenson is one of the most positive and positively persistent people I have ever met! Please take the time to get to know her, as I was introduced to her by a mutual Arizona friend, and I am happy for you to learn about how positive she is about being negative several dress sizes! Read on to learn about her beautiful body and how her beautiful spirit powers through what is required  to keep that body!
How many children/grandchildren do you have? ages?  
Twins
1. Iliana 26 yrs old     2. David 26 yrs old     3. Daniel 21 yrs old     4. Erika 19 yrs old     5. Jasmine 14 yrs old
and then there are the Grandchildren:
1. Deziraee 5 yrs old     2. Nathan 3yrs old     3. Hailee 2yrs old     4. Joshlyn 2yrs old     5. Sylus 8 months      6. Drew arrives in April
Give us your top 5 pointers for being one of America’s Hottest Fit Moms… 
1. Pray … I always put God 1st!!     2. Eat clean     3. Hydrate     4. workout     5. Sleep
America's Hottest Fit Moms               Prayer is my #1 key to everything in life!!! americashottestfitmoms.comnitasworld.com americashottestfitmoms.com
A healthy mom is a happy mom
 What is your former weight? Bodyfat? November 2010… 186lbs,25%
Your current weight? Current bodyfat? March 2012… 148lbs,18%

What inspired your track from fat to fit?  What made you want to be a Fit Mom?

I inspired myself! Seeing my mom , who was an alcoholic, pass away at a young age from living an unhealthy life style I realized I have so much to see in my life watching my children and grand children grow into adults I didn’t want to cut my experience short due to unhealthy choices…I felt that my children deserve a mother who would live a long time and would be able to educate them on nutrition and the importance of physical activity, are bodies are a gift from God and I believe that to truly give God the appreciation that he deserves for this grand gift we must keep are bodies in the best condition they can be. I now try and live by that and instill it in my children.
Please tell us a story that you recall being really down on yourself for when you were fat?
First of all I knew I was gaining weight , because of my hypothyroidism and my doctor was trying to get my thyroid regulated, I started praying and asking God to help me with my ill power , I knew that i was out of control with my diet and I had no energy, well be careful what you pray for God always used the most important people in your life to help impact your life, I had also been hounding my husband about intimacy for a while, we were not intimate, and we had only been married 2 yrs, I started working out and trying to eat right but I continued to hound my husband to be intimate with me.
     In October of 2010 My husband David, after me hounding him again , decided to write me a letter, he told me how he was so happy to be with me and how God gave him the best person and how I was everything he ever wanted, but that I was getting to heavy and that he wasn’t attracted to me anymore. I was devastated.
     I had run into one of my Pastor’s Jeff Shellenberg, I told him how I was thinking about maybe 1 day doing a bodybuilding competition , He told me he knew of  the perfect trainer and that when I was ready to let him know so he can give me his number … Well I didn’t see Jeff again for a while but I had him on my facebook and i messaged him and he gave me Tim Sparkes phone number. I called Tim and started working out with him March of 2011. I learned alot from Tim He is a phenomenal trainer. It soon became way to expensive to pay Tim any longer.. I again started to Pray cause I didn’t want to give up I had been losing weight and feeling energized and looking good.. I called Tim and told him I couldn’t afford to pay anymore He was so amazing he told me to come in so we can work something out.. Tim NEVER gave up on me and to this day I am truely grateful for all he did for me , he is super special to me . Tim continued to train me for my 1st competition in November 2011 and I won 3rd place in Woman’s open bodybuilding and 4th place in woman’s middleweight bodybuilding… sadly Tim couldn’t be at my competition to see me win my trophy’s cause he was competing in his own competition in another state, but we kept in touch by text message the whole time..
     I lost a total of about 62lbs  When I started working out I weighed in at 186lbs 25% BF and when I walked on stage I weighed 124lbs 8% BF… I have since moved to San Diego , but I keep in touch with Tim .. I’m currently training for a competition June 9Th 2012 in San Diego, Tim is still doing all my nutrition , To this day he still helps me out and whenever I go back to phoenix I will call and train with him .. I owe alot to God for him helping me spiritually through this time, but I also owe alot to my husband for giving me that kick that I needed , I could have made it bad when I received that letter from him but I knew God put Dave in my life and that God can get us through anything.. I thank Tim for his help in making me the person of fitness that I am today . Last but Not least I give thanks to Jeff Shellenberg for telling me about Tim and encouraging me to call him.. I would have never known about Tim without Jeff telling me… This is what made me a Fit mom today I will never go back to what I was, being fit and teaching my kids about healthy nutrition is super important..  
Please tell us a story that you recall being really proud of yourself for when you started getting fit?
When my pants were fitting me loose and when I was actually able to see myself in pictures and I had a glow about me … then when I walked on stage at the bb competition I was actually teary eyed and just thinking about it now brings tears to my eyes…  
What makes you wake up with the intention of being a Fit Mom more each day?
The way my husband cuddles with me now … The look in my daughters eyes when they see me looking good , how when I walk out of the room and they now tell me “mom you are not gonna wear that skirt its to short for you” lol tables turn when you look super fit and sexy…
What do your children think about your progress as a Fit Mom, and how has your weightloss affected them? 
 Erika 19years old says: “Honestly, I could never be more proud of my mom. She’s the most amazing and most dedicated woman I’ve ever known. I’m happy to call her my HOT mama.”
Jasmine 14 years old says: “I think my moms progress was a great thing that happened in her life. her weight loss affected me because it made her a happier person, which made me happier and very proud.”
What are your favorite Fit Mom exercises to do in the gym? outdoors? with your children/grandchildren (adults or kids)? 
Erika: ”Me and my mom always do cardio together, whether its hiking, running on the treadmill, or just walking along the beach.”
Jasmine: “My favorite is hiking the mountain and feeding the squirrels at the end.. another favorite is walking on the beach and playing Frisbee on the beach.. those excercises are very fun!”
My favorite exercise is Leg day. I know that sounds crazy because nobody really likes doing legs but I luv to workout legs.. and cardio!
What’s your Fit Mom protein/carb/fat ratio per meal on average? 1:1 with low fat
What’s your favorite Fit Mom snack?
anything with peanut butter … lol …1/2 cup greek yogurt w/ blueberries and truvia
Who has inspired you most in your journey? 
I’d have to say my husband .. well he was more my support… A person I looked at that I really want to meet who’s body inspired me would have to bee Dana linn Bailey.
How do you hope to inspire others through your journey- what’s your Fit Mom Mission? 
I pray that whoever reads my story is inspired by it! Just because your husband tells you that you are not attractive to him doesn’t mean you let yourself go more… I live by the word of God as much as I can … I’m not perfect by far … [I love what] The word says in 1 Corinthians 6:18: “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God?”
My mission is to inspire and help other moms meet there goals .. whatever they may be… Philippians 4:13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. I also volunteer at The Rock Church San Diego in the personal training ministry helping with moms and individuals meet their goals…
Additionally, please include any testimony facts that you feel will inspire our readers, from start to finish on your path to fitness. 
One phrase I learned to live by that inspired me is to NEVER EVER GIVE UP… no matter what anyone says .. You can do anything you put the effort to set out to do … Another thing remember you’re not eating for satisfaction your eating to fuel your engine… You can do this!!! Pray and be blessed!
To learn more about Jennifer or to contact her go to AmericasHottestFitMoms.com

March 15, 2012

Meet Fit Mom: Irma Hereford

I have many phenomenal women (and a few fathers) in our group AmericasHottestFitMoms.com these days! We feel blessed to have each other, and daily there are posts with questions, supportive responses, and lots of positive feedback and cheering from each of the members.  It’s truly a pleasure to go on there every day and learn something new about my fitness capabilities, as well as feeling the constant surge of beautiful energy to strengthen me daily while I tackle motherhood and fitness and supporting my family.
Once I started the Fit Mom group, America’s Hottest Fit Moms, I thought it would attract some great fellowship and habit-building for me, for my friends, and for the novice fitness enthusiast fit moms who are still wondering about the best steps for their fitness endeavors.  I had no idea that such astonishing women would come join, some famous, and some so humble that their only joy is found in the uplifting of others.  All of these moms are truly inspiring in some unique sense all their own.
I would never say that I have favorites, but I definitely have those who I’ve become most familiar with because they have such radiance and that light of theirs just, well, makes them stand out among the crowds.  These particular Fit Moms don’t try, they don’t  ask for anything in return, and they don’t even really self-promote.  They just stand for something.  They are beautiful… One such Fit Mom is Irma Hereford. I have had the pleasure of getting to know Irma and her family through her posts in the group.  Please take the time to get to know her and cheer her on, as she has mastered the art of unconditionally loving others and empowering others simply in her example through the way she lives and cheers on others.  We adore you, Fit Mom, Irma Hereford. You are PHENOMENAL, Irma Gonzalez Hereford Super Fit Mom! Thank you for sharing your presence with us.  
Give us your top 5 pointers for being one of America’s Hottest Fit Moms…
1.  must have a positive attitude.
2.  smile!
3.  its do or do not…no middle ground.
4.  do what makes YOU happy and gives YOU peace of mind.
5.  BREATHE!  :)
How many children/grandchildren do you have? ages? I have 3 children…8 yr old twins, Mikayla & Nathaniel, and my 3 yr old Kingston.
America's Hottest Fit Moms

Irma and her Babies!

What is your former weight?  240 lbs.
America's Hottest Fit Moms Fitness for you and your Family!

Irma at over 200 pounds

Bodyfat?  over 40% (cant recall exact %).
Your current weight?  170 lbs.
Fit Moms Fitness

Fit Mom Irma "Hottie" Hereford in February 2012

Bodyfat?  18%
What inspired your track from fat to fit?  Being fit and working out has always been part of me…ever since high school when i got involved in dance and cheer.  The hardwork of practicing, challenging your body to perform new, harder moves and the euphoric feeling after competing…it all stuck with me.
What made you want to be a Fit Mom?  After i saw a few young mothers, younger than myself @ the park…they would get out of breath and break out in a sweat after being up on their feet, chasing their kid(s) around.  It wasn’t a pretty sight to see or hear…and i refer to that ‘health-wise’.  These mothers were on their way to being ticking time bombs if they didn’t do something to get healthy.  I was moved to do something about losing my ‘baby weight’ after i had my twins…and i did.  :)
Americas Hottest Fit Moms

Irma and her Twins

Please tell us a story that you recall being really down on yourself for when you were fat?  About 6 months after having Kingston, i remember not being able going upstairs without being out of breath and not having my legs hurt or feeling super heavy.  One day it just hit me hard…it was 6 months since i had my son, i had dropped most of the wt i gained while pregnant but i couldnt lose the last 20 lbs plus the wt i gained from fertility treatments.  I became discouraged…and disgusted with myself.  I had no excuse for this…i had to take accountability.  It took a good 2 weeks after that one hit for me to focus mentally, get it together and execute my plan of action. 
Please tell us a story that you recall being really proud of yourself for when you started getting fit?  When i finally dropped those ‘pesky’ 20 lbs from my pregnancy…it took almost 6 months to get it off of me.  Boy, was i PROUD AND ON CLOUD 9!! 
What makes you wake up with the intention of being a Fit Mom more each day?  The changes i see in myself, physcial ones as well as mental and emotional ones…each day i notice something different and/or new that is just FABULOUS!!  This keeps me going forward and forces me to push harder. 
What do your children think about your progress as a Fit Mom, and how has your weightloss affected them?  My kids know that mommy has to go to the gym and is on a special diet.  They are very aware and involved of my goals because i show them pictures of women in figure…plus they witness what i do.  I love it when they get to see me, especially my little girl…i love showing her that women, especially mommy’s can be strong, fit, healthy and gorgeous! 
They know about hardwork…they see what i put in, time-wise and strength-wise…i use this all the time with them and their everyday struggles, such as with homework or their after school activities/sports.  I remind them that hardwork is not easy, it takes practice and patience and that something AWESOME will come of all this hardwork.  They understand this concept well, they just need to reminded of it sometimes, especially when they get discouraged. 
My weight loss has affected them in a positive manner…because now mommy can run and bike with them…or just jump around or dance and i don’t get tired.  I can keep up with them…no problem!  ;)   I can play and be just as active with them and not be tired or out of breath like i was once upon a time ago. 
What are your favorite Fit Mom exercises to do in the gym? outdoors? with your children/grandchildren (adults or kids)?  I don’t do much of Fit Mom exercises with my kids @ the gym…they go to the kids room.  Outdoors, we go jogging and do sprints/lunges/jumping squats/push-ups and repeat.  My Kingston gets a kick out of springs/lunges/jumping squats…cracks me up because he keeps going and going…my little man pushes me!  :)   Now that im training for my Tri, my kids ride their bikes while i run. 
What’s your favorite Fit Mom snack?  Plain greek yogurt with Jello sugar free cheesecake & lemon pudding mixed in it…and with a pack of 100 calories almonds mixed in it also.  YUM!!
Who has inspired you most in your journey?  My parents…my mom is a fighter.  She gets up stronger after each time she is hit with anything in life.  She amazes me with her strength…nothing and no one is able to stop my mom…she is a ‘storm’ herself!  My dad, he is a strong man for passion…he is a cyclist.  He has been riding for over 60 yrs!  That is my dad’s 1st love…he ALWAYS made time to train, no matter what…he put his love and passion for his cycling above all else.  Its what makes my dad happy and brings him peace.
How do you hope to inspire others through your journey- what’s your Fit Mom Mission?  Just because you are a mom does not mean you can forget or neglect yourself.  Moms are nurturing, caring, loving and protective of their children, their family…and they should be just like that with themselves.  Moms must learn to get their ‘HAPPY’ on and get inner peace…i think that without these 2 driving forces, moms have a difficult time being truely happy.  Lets face it, if moms can’t make themselves happy, who will make them happy??  It all starts within yourself.
Additionally, please include any testimony facts that you feel will inspire our readers, from start to finish on your path to fitness.
This is what ive learned and experienced…pain, you will feel lots of it, but its ok, physical pain is temporary.  Hardwork is trying and results take time to see…but all that time and effort you put in SHALL SHINE THROUGH when you least expect it.  The changes you want to see, well you won’t see them overnight but you will…just need to remember that these changes are probably already there, YOU just can’t see them because we tend to be our worst critics.  Keep breathing and smiling…it helps!  ;)