How to NOT pack on extra lbs during the Holiday season...SPECIAL HOLIDAY OFFER!

Here's an oldie but goody!  I wrote this last year at this time...

Be sure to click HERE and read the comments for some GREAT holiday recipes! 

How to NOT pack on that Holiday weight...

This is my most favorite time of year! I love the colder weather. I love sweaters, boots and scarfs! I love being with family and celebrating all of the holidays. I also love the FOOD! Who doesn't? I have some tips that will help you keep those holiday pounds at bay and help you enjoy every minute while doing it. Let's get started!

If you aren't active now, get active! Start moving, get to the gym or hit the pavement or even put in that DVD, whatever it is that you do, DO IT! Make it a priority to stay physically active throughout the rest of the year, and don't wait until New Year's to "start over". These are a few reasons why: First, this time of year can be VERY stressful! The best way to combat stress is through exercise. While you exercise, "feel good" endorphins are released. You will enjoy the feeling of self accomplishment and experience a clear mind. This is SO important this time of year! Second, you will sleep better. Who doesn't need a better quality of sleep? We can be so busy with holiday errands and parties. We need to understand that sleep is critical to not only beating stress but to weight loss and management. The third reason why exercising now is important, you will burn those extra calories you WILL be consuming! If you aren't exercising, you will gain some weight! That is a promise! Exercising will help you truly enjoy this season while looking and feeling great!

This time of year can be a time to help those in need.  This is something that can also help you. Let me explain.  Now this is Holiday Weight Management 101 by Amy Blue. This is something I believe to be true.  Some of the reasons we over eat may be feelings of depression or boredom. Some people experience these feeling  more so during this time year, and as a result more weight is packed on.  I personally believe that if we wrap ourselves up in serving those around us, we simply forget our own issues or our personal burdens that may be making us feel down, suddenly don't seem as hard to bare. There is a feeling that comes from serving others that you can't get from exercise or eating right. Also, by filling up our free or unproductive time with service we avoid eating out of boredom. So, please incorporate service one way or another into your everyday tasks. It will change your season and your life.

All the wonderful FOOD is the biggest problem for me. Who else has a hard time saying no to chocolate in any form? I love this, "I would give up chocolate, but I'm not a quitter". Anyway, back to FOOD in general. Now for most people staying on a diet or avoiding eating anything not so good for all together is very unrealistic.  Understand this, it's ok to enjoy all of the yummy holiday food. However, there are a few ground rules. Everything in moderation. Don't eat until you are uncomfortable. Pick and choose, don't have a full serving of everything! Make healthy choices when you can. For example, volunteer to bring the veggie tray instead of the cookies. Make your food from scratch. Stay away from processed quick and easy meals. That way you can regulate what goes into it.  There are also plenty of healthy substitutes that you can use in your recipes.

Try these:

Sugar-Stevia  You can buy a large bag of stevia anywhere and it measures out just like sugar. We used it to make bread and it works great.

Sour cream/cream cheese-Greek yogurt   I have replaced sour cream all together with all natural plain Greek yogurt. It's high in protein and very low in fat.

Vegetable oil-Applesauce or Coconut oil  It depends what you are using it for.

Try to be creative with your meals and incorporate fresh veggies and fruits. Eat less of the processed foods. You will find fresh just tastes better. There are tons of healthy recipes out there...have fun experimenting.

One mistake a lot of us make is, we drink our calories.  So many of us are soda drinkers, juice drinkers, or one of my weaknesses, hot chocolate. All of these are high in calories and have NO nutritional value. You can keep the weight off by drinking WATER! Ok, with that said, the same rules apply to your choice of holiday beverage as your holiday meal.

Most importantly, just stay in tune with your body and don't over do anything. Take time to relax and enjoy your blessings this season.

"Happiness is the only good. The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here. The way to be happy is to make others so."
~Robert G. Ingersoll~

Please feel free to share your favorite Healthy Holiday recipe in the comments below!


For the Holidays, I'm running a special offer.  This would make a GREAT gift!

I'm offering a 6 week Online Training Program with Nutrition plan and Email support for $50!  AWESOME!  I have had such an amazing response to this program, that I wanted to keep it going!  You can't beat this!

If you are interested in purchasing this program for you or someone special on your list, email me.  I will send you a certificate that can be redeemed online.  Now, I'm limiting this offer to 2 per person and the certificate expires July 1 , 2013.  I only have 10 certificates so act fast!

For more information contact me bobybyblue@gmail.com

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday!

Just me...the end.

It's been a very long time since I first posted about my personal struggle.  In THIS article posted back in April, I shared a VERY personal experience with ALL of you. If you haven't read "Just Me", do so before you continue reading this.  I was just re-reading that article and it brought me to tears.  So  many emotions came flooding back.  I was a little surprised.  This post will be an extension of my previous post.  I'm throwing out a disclaimer!  This post may contain some information you don't want to know about!  It's personal and graphic.  With that said, let me continue.

Some of you may be wondering, "her last post was in April, why continue this article now in November?".  Honestly, I have been struggling with this issue since then!  Back in April, we were packing 2 small tunnel  wounds with hopes of them closing in a few weeks.  I was to then have a new implant reinserted.  Oh, if that was only the case...

Three weeks later we had our visit with my Dr.  We thought we would get some stitches and schedule my last surgery. It was a pretty exciting day to start.  When the Dr. looked over everything, he seemed pleased with the healing process.  He took one last look before setting me up for stitches. To my horror he found some more of that infected tissue.  He took a better look, and realized that there had been no healing.  I was just developing that gross tissue.  He then decided to operate.  He numbed me up with several local shots and a block that he inserted through my ribs.  The goal of this surgery was to clear out ALL of the infected tissue and create a healthy breast pocket.  In order to achieve this, he had to scrape out all of my existing tissue.  We were going to make a pocket that could be easily and more importantly, efficiently "packed".  Doing this would allow me to heal correctly.  Now, the process of scraping out the tissue was extremely disturbing.  I could feel the pressure of pulling flesh. The sound was by far the worst.  It sounded like someone was tearing cardboard right next to my ear. 

When the Dr. was finished, I  had a hole that was 4 inches deep and 3 inches wide.  My entire breast pocket was open.  We could fit 6 4X4 inch gos sheets inside, and that is exactly what we did.  We had to pack that wound 3 times a day until it healed completely.  To top this day off,  I was put on some HEAVY antibiotics.  These are the same ones they give you if you were exposed to anthrax.  Needless to say, they made me sick.

That night when we got home, we were to change the gos.  I will never forget this experience and the totall panic that came with it.  As Greg removed the first 5 sheets, things seemed fine.  The last sheet was crammed deep, he had a very hard time getting to it.  Once, he got it out, the blood started pouring out of my chest.  I was instantly light headed.  I have never seen that much blood.  It kept pouring out!  Greg had to apply pressure on my freshly operated breast for 5 minutes.  It was excruciating!  He did this twice, and the bleeding stopped.  We then had to replace the 6 sheets of gos. At this point, we were both in tears, and questioning this decision we made.  I was put back on pain meds.  Something, I wanted to avoid but couldn't. 

The process of packing this wound went on for a few more months.  The pain I had in my chest never went away fully.  After a couple months, we reassessed my healing.  For some reason, it was extremely slow.  I was on and off those harsh antibiotics.  There was still evidence of an infection.  The opening at the base of my breast was actually healing faster than the wound.  He  had to cut it open a few times.  I would travel up to Ogden everyday so Greg could change my gos.  This party got old fast! 

My training became hit or miss.  My energy levels were all over the place.  The medication I was on was making me crazy!  I became mildly addicted to the pain meds. and went through withdrawal symptoms for about 3 days. I felt miserable.  I hated the way my body looked.  The negative self talk was in full force.  The most frustrating thing was that my physical appearance was out of my control.  I second guessed my decision almost every day.  The biggest question I had was, "What if...?"  I cried myself to sleep many nights.  I felt weak.  Right when I was about to roll over in my self pity, my sister sent me a package in the mail.  She has no idea (until she reads this) how much her thoughtfulness did for me.  It gave me the boost I needed. It reminded me that this was all for a reason.  I could either just "get through" this or I could "embrace the challenge" and learn from it.  I developed new relationships and friendships because of this experience.  My friends rallied around me and always offered words of encouragement.  I greatly appreciate all of you! (you know who you are)

As time went on, I was finally able to weight train at full capacity.  My healing had progressed enough that the Dr. allowed me to finally work out!  This was a BLESSING!  I finally got to do what I LOVED!  Things started to settle down a bit.  I had figured out a way to "stuff" my bra to make me look as even as possible.  I decided, I  could do this!  I started to see some of my muscle tone come back.  I was being patient. It's amazing what an attitude adjustment can do! 

A couple more months went by.  The healing process was taking way too long.  I called the Dr to see if there was anything else I could do to speed up the process.  He called back, and gave me two options;

A: He would open me up in his office, and see if he could get a better look at what was causing the slow healing
OR
B: I would go to the hospital so he could really open me up to see what was going on.

Greg and I decided to go with option B.  That was the best decision we made!  We scheduled my operation with hopes that he would be able to clear out whatever was the problem, and we could start packing again.

This was surgery #4 for me!  It was a success.  The Dr. found deep inside my ribs, more of that infectious tissue.  There would have been no way for him to find it, had I not had this surgery.  My prayers were answered.  Another bonus was, I was without a hole!!!  I was all sewn up!  I had a drainage tube in place but that was removed 1 week after surgery.  It had been 7  months since the last time I was without a "hole".

The next step in my journey was to let my newly operated on breast tissue soften.  The Dr. wanted to see me back 4 weeks post surgery.  If everything looked good, we would talk about the next step, a tissue expander.  Those next 4 weeks were great!  Things were finally moving forward!  It had been 7  1/2 months since my first surgery.  I was prepared for the tissue expander.  The expander was to be inserted and then slowly filled until the skin had expanded larger than the needed size for my implant.  This process was estimated to take 6-8 weeks.  I was ready for it!  I saw the Dr. and things were healing great! We scheduled my expander surgery for 1 week.  I was excited!  I was almost done!  The day of the surgery, I had a really good feeling.  I felt a tremendous amount of comfort.  When I woke up, the first thing I did was feel my breast.  It was bigger than I thought it would be. I was confused.  The nurse kept saying I had a right breast augmentation. I argued that it was a tissue expander.  My Dr. overheard us and shared the best news with me.  He was able to put a new implant in and skip the expander.  I had another drainage tube in place but that was something I could easily handle. Now, everyone seemed to know my "story" at the hospital.  Each one of the nurses, my anesthesiologist, and surgical assistants congratulated me and celebrated with me.  I was completely overwhelmed!  My emotions were all over the place.  I was finally finished!  Now, I'm a planner.  I had everything all worked out as far as my training schedule goes.  I was now 8 weeks ahead schedule! 

I had strict orders from the Dr. to not do anything.  I did exactly as I was instructed.  I was not about to do anything to mess this up.  1 week after surgery, the drain came out!  I had 5 more weeks of recovery ahead of me.  I did talk my Dr. into letting me ride a stationary bike.  So, that is what I did for 5 weeks!  Need less to say, I'm so over the bike!  I did appreciate my recovery on it though. 

6 weeks after surgery, I meet with my Dr.  He was extremely pleased with my healing.  Everything was settling nicely and faster than he thought it would.  We all celebrated in his office! Dr. Sellers is an amazing surgeon.  I know the Lord had a hand in my decision to choose him.  Everyone there was supportive and understanding.  I greatly appreciate each of them.  I received full clearance to train at 100%.  It was the best day ever!  It had been 8 months since day 1 of this journey for me.   I hope and pray I never forget all aspects of this experience.  I hope I can apply what I have learned to my life each day.  It changed me forever.  I do not regret my decision back in February. In fact, I would do it over again.  My loving husband Greg, is my hero.  He held my hand, and wiped the tears.  I'm grateful for my sister and her support long distance.  I love you Erin!  I'm blessed to have a great neighbor friend who was more than willing to offer an ear or even help in the gos changes. I'm blessed to have made new friendships.  These ladies are awesome and they inspired me.  Thank you.

I have started a new journey about 3 weeks ago.  Before this all started, I was preparing for my first photo shoot.  I am focused on getting my body where I want it to be, photo ready.  I am documenting this journey and will be sharing it right here!  I will be including work outs, and nutrition plans that I will be implementing.  I'm starting off with Body by Blue! My "before" pics were taken, and I look forward to sharing them right next to my "after" shot!  It feels so good to be back! 

I hope there is someone out there that reads this and can pull something positive from it.  I learned that I could do hard things, pain is temporary, and attitude is everything.  Each of us has something we are struggling with.  For some it's their weight, others have health issues, or even problems at home.  We need to rally together to support and encourage each other.  I couldn't have done it alone. 

To celebrate, I'm extending my 2 for 1 offer!  Visit HERE to take advantage of this opportunity!  You have until Thanksgiving day to redeem!


Thanks to all!

It's time to Celebrate!

WOW! Body by Blue has been busy! There have been several who have used this tool to achieve their health and fitness goals, and have been successful! I think it's time to celebrate!  I will be offering a 2 for 1 deal.  I'm only offering this deal through the month of October.  This is the perfect time to get in shape and shed some weight before those family pictures or holiday parties. 

There are a couple reasons for the "2 for 1" and it's not because I'm looking for more clients.  I actually believe that some of us will find success in a new training program if we have someone by our side, doing the same hard work we are. If you have someone waiting for you at the gym, you are less likely to cancel.  This will allow you and your training partner to purchase my program and split the cost! I will work with BOTH of you!

Ok, you are probably asking, "What's the program deal, and what does it cost?".  You have 2 choices!

2 for 1 Package A:  I offer a complete 6-12 (Phase 1-2 Body by Blue) week workout program with nutrition and supplement support.  You will have a weekly email check in and Unlimited EMAIL support. This package is $250.

2 for 1 Package B: I offer a complete 6 week (Phase 1 Body by Blue) workout program with nutrition and supplement support.  You will have weekly email check in and Unlimited EMAIL support.  This package is $150. 

Both you and your training partner will receive for 12 weeks:

• Phase 1 and Phase 2 customized for you
• Nutrition plan w/supplement support
• Printable workout sheets
• Access to demonstration videos
• TOTAL support via EMAIL

If this sounds like what you have been looking for email me at bodybyblue@gmail.com.

Now,  I'm not about to leave those of you out who are simply just looking for a new training program to change up your current work out.  I am offering my Body by Blue 2.0 (phase 2)  for you!

Here's what people are saying about 2.0: (taken from my FB page)

"Just did a trial of work out 2.0 LOVED It ! My heart rate was up and I enjoyed that it involved muscle confusion- not the same old boring lifts at the gym- It kicked my butt in a good way;)"

"I had my sis-in-law who is getting back into shape after baby #2 (8 wks old!) sample 2.0 and it was killer!"

"just finished Body By Blue 2.0 Day 4 shoulders...WOW! seriously awesome workout. I feel the burn...and I am sure I will be feeling it for quite a few days. ha ha"

BBB 2.0:  I offer a complete 6 (Phase 2 Body by Blue) week workout program with nutrition and supplement info. Unlimited EMAIL support included.  This package is $75. (Basically, I write you up a great program and answer any questions via email)

You will receive for 6 weeks:

• Phase 2 customized for you
• Nutrition Plan w/ supplement info.
• Printable workout sheets
• Access to demonstration videos
• TOTAL support via EMAIL

If this is what you are looking for email me at bodybyblue@gmail.com.

NOTE: to see sample workouts from both Phase 1 and 2 visit HERE

Remember, I will only be offering this amazing opportunity through the month of October!  Don't miss this opportunity to shed unwanted fat and develop the healthy body you want.  I would love to work with you!

If you know someone who would benefit from this opportunity, pass this along! 

Don't forget to follow me on facebook! visit HERE

-Amy Blue

Body by Blue

Is Body by Blue for you?

I have had so much fun working with several ladies that have become Body by Blue team members.  You may have seen a few of their post on facebook.  They all have experienced success!  They are learning how to eat clean, and train hard to achieve the level of health they are looking for, and the body they want. 

What is the Body by Blue program?

 It's a 6-18 week program that includes 3 different phases. Each week there are 5 different workouts.  Each work out is full body, with an emphasis on a major muscle group.  It's high intensity is addicting.  You will see muscle definition in places you never thought you could. For Body by Blue,  I used strategically placed compound movements in a targeted metabolic resistance training program.  It will challenge you, no matter what your fitness level.  I customize it to you.  I have women at all fitness levels, from post baby moms trying to loose the baby weight, to women just trying to build muscle while leaning out.

Example:

Here is the 1st circuit of 4 from Body by Blue, Day 1 LEGS.  Give this a try!

Walking lunges 10 each leg

Push up w/burpee  10

Squat to row  10

Rest 45 sec. and repeat for 3 sets

If you are frustrated with your weight and are not seeing the results you want, I can help you!  It's all in training with weight the correct way, and how you fuel your body.  Food is KEY!  Starving yourself is not an option.  I will show you how to make healthier choices that will give you the healthy body you are looking for.

Here are a few women who have already seen benefits from the Body by Blue program.  They have been awesome to work with, and I'm so excited they are reaching their goals!

My first Body by Blue experience:

I started the 4-week Body by Blue program just 2 months after having baby #3 via c-section. It was a good thing I was so excited and determined to try out the program, because the first hurdle came when I had to get dressed for the gym. I felt sexy as ever in a baggy t-shirt to hide the skin that didn't get the “baby is out” memo, and loose pants that say, “I work out”...yea, not so much! But, I'd done this before and I knew it wouldn't get better until I put in a little sweat, okay, a lot of sweat! I completed day 1 and immediately knew, this program is going to kick my trash! That's a good thing! Bodies like Amy's don't come from taking it easy! I managed to make it through week 1 and was rejuvenated by the results; I'd lost about 4 lbs, and 2''! I was feeling brave enough to wear clothes that really do say, “I work out!”. After weeks 2 and 3 I was feeling brave enough to try on some pre-pregnancy jeans that I love, and they fit – not perfectly, but they fit! This really gave me the final push to give it my all in week 4! I found that I had doubled the weight on most exercises than when I first started in week 1 and was taking fewer or no breaks other than between circuits. In just 3 weeks I'd managed to increase my workout weight by 100%!

My final results after just 4 weeks on Body by Blue show that I've lost 3 ½'', 6 lbs, 2% body fat, and 1 ½ dress sizes! But what I've noticed more is my endurance and strength levels (and my arms and shoulders are looking pretty hot too!). I feel great and that means I've set additional goals, including my first triathlon in just 11 short weeks -less than 6 months after having baby #3! I have lofty fitness goals in mind that surpass even my pre-baby body and I'm committed and determined to see them realized! If I didn't feel this good after only working out for 1 month, I don't think I'd be so excited and ambitious with my fitness goals! Thank you Body by Blue, and thank you Amy for the never-ending support and encouragement!

Erin S. age 29

Salem, OR

I am a mother of 4 and always on the go. I started Body By Blue when my newest edition was 1 month old. Its never fun to look in the mirror after having a baby and trying to wrap your head around how in the heck you are going to lose this baby weight with 4 crazy kiddos! Amy has made a workout for me to do at home. (No gym membership and carting my 4 kids around) She also made a meal plan for me that allows enough calories for me to continue to nurse but to also lose weight. This took a lot of dedication for me but I was SO ready to lose this baby weight. Change happened immediately!
My little guy is now 3 months old and I am 2 pounds away from my pre-baby weight. In 2 months, I have lost 12 pounds, 3 inches in my waist, 3 inches in my hips, and 2 inches in my thighs. My arms are more defined than they have ever been! With my cRaZy life, Amy has made this work for me. I am hoping to continue to lose weight after I reach my pre-baby weight and get in the best shape of my life.
I have learned so many cool exercises and how to use that stability ball... that had been collecting dust in storage. I have learned that I feel so much better when I eat the right foods. As much as I love my "cheat meals," I can tell a huge difference in how I feel after I eat those yummy cheese fries I had been craving all week. My stomach hurts and I feel bloated. Its a nice little reminder that that stuff isn't good for me.

Anna B.
Layton, UT


6/8/12

I have been training with Amy for the 3rd week now. First of all, I have been really impressed with how much time she has devoted to me. We live in different states, but that hasn't changed how dedicated she is to helping me reach my fitness goals. She has sent me a detailed workout & nutrition plan & is always available for any questions or concerns I have. My main goal is to build muscle and she has been so great in helping me find the right balance in my diet to achieve my goals. So far I have noticed that in most (if not all) of my workouts I am gradually lifting heavier and heavier weights as each week goes by which proves I am gaining that strength I desire.
I have thoroughly enjoyed her workouts! They are never boring. The time in the gym flies by because her workouts are fun, challenging and include a variety of moves to keep from ever getting bored. I would certainly recommend Amy to anyone looking for a personal trainer. She knows her stuff!

Allison H.
AZ


Everyone is different.  My goal is to get you to meet your goals. That is why I customize the Body by Blue program specifically for you.  It can be done at your gym or even in the comfort of your own home.  I can show you how to achieve the healthy body you deserve.

Here is a sneak peak of Body by Blue 2.0, this is phase 2 of the program.  It focuses on building strength  and power, while stripping those last few unwanted pounds of fat.  This is the last circuit of 2.0 Day 1 LEGS! Give it a try!

Circuit #3                                                         Sets                                         Reps

Stability ball pike                                                                                                        3                                                                                             10

Bulgarian split squat w/bicep curl                                                                 3                                                                                             10 each leg

Stability ball skull crushers                                                                                 3                                                                                             10

Rest 45-60 sec- after each circuit and before finisher

Finisher- to be done with NO rest between exercises

30 Jump squats w/ weight

Side plank- 20 sec. each side

20 Jump lunges w/ weight

I'm excited to launch this program and want to celebrate! I am offering a special promotion of 50% off,  to the first 10 clients.  I have 3 different packages to choose from. If you are interested in becoming a Body by Blue team member, please email me. I have a feeling these 10 slots will fill up fast!  I look forward to working with you!  bodybyblue@gmail.com

 Thank you Ladies!

 If you have someone in mind that might be interested, PLEASE feel free to pass this offer along.  There is nothing better than a work out partner! :)

The 3rd place WINNER!

First things first.  Congrats to Jack+Alli for choosing the 10 free sessions.  I'm excited to work with you!  Also, congrats to Jackie! Her choice was the Achieve Meal Replacement.  You will LOVE it! That leaves the Purify System up for grabs!

Drum roll please..........

Congratulations to The Moriaritys! You have won the Purify System! Thank you so much for your support.  Please email me your mailing address and I will get that sent off to you ASAP! fabfitwithfive@yahoo.com 

This contest is officially closed!  Thanks everyone for all of your support!  

What is new?

I designed a beginner level program with postpartum moms in mind.  This program however, is perfect for all women. It's designed using the perfect formula for fat loss and muscle gain. There are variations for every exercise to increase the level of difficulty.  For those of you who follow on Facebook www.facebook.com/bodybyblue, you may be seeing some of these Body by Blue member's results.  A few of them will be posting their overall results here on this blog for ALL to see.  If you are interested in this program, email me for more info. fabfitwithfive@yahoo.com

I am currently working on a 2.0 version of this program that is more advanced.  It will challenge you, no matter what your current fitness level is.  This will be released in a couple weeks.  I'm super excited about it! 

Stay tuned...I will be giving you all a sneak peak at this program!

Thanks!

"It's possible." said pride.
"It's risky." said experience.
"It's pointless." said reason.

"Give it a try." whispered the heart.


 Amy

Contest WINNERS!!

It has been a LONG haul. I appreciate the support from all of you over the past 6 months.  This contest has been fun but it's time to announce the WINNERS!  Now, these are the three prizes that I am giving away:

10 personal training sessions by ME! valued at $500.00

1 Purify Cleanse and Detox system valued at $130.00

30 day supply of Zrii Achieve, all natural meal replacement valued at $108.00

Here's what I'm going to do, I'm going to let the person that has the MOST points choose which prize they would like to claim.  The person that has the second highest amount will have second pick, and the last remaining prize will be raffled off among all of those who had at least 25 points. 

Drum roll please....

JACK+ALLI you are the 1st place WINNER! Congrats!  You will have 1st pick.  If you are interested in the 10 personal training sessions and are not in the Utah area, we can work out a virtual package.  You will have 7 days to get back to me and tell me your choice.  Thanks so much for your participation and Congratulations!

JACKIE you are the 2nd place WINNER! Congrats!  You will have 2nd pick.  You will have 7 days to let me know your choice, once jack+alli has made their choice. (I will let you know once they do) Thank you for your support and CONGRATS!

3rd place WINNER!  THIS IS IMPORTANT!

I will announce the 3rd place winner once the first 2 prizes have been claimed.  In the mean time, you have the opportunity to earn extra entries into this drawing.  Those who qualify (25 pts.) will have 1 entry into the drawing. For every friend or family member that you get to follow my blog or my Facebook page, you will receive an extra entry into the drawing. You just need to make sure you tell me who the new member is.  This is EASY!  Find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bodybyblue or click the pic on the right.
GOOD LUCK TO YOU!!!

I look forward to hearing from you very soon!  fabfitwithfive@yahoo.com

I'm excited to award these prizes and start my new business, Body by Blue.  I'm on a mission to help every woman, especially moms, get fit and stay healthy.  I have designed a program to do just that.  This program can be done at your favorite gym or in the comfort of your own home.  I have several Body by Blue team members already on this program.  You will be hearing form them VERY soon!  If you are interested please feel free to contact me.

Thank you again to all who have participated in this contest.  I plan to continually further my education in the health and wellness field.  I'm so blessed to have a place to share it, right here.  Thank you again!  I so look forward posting with a new spin.  Stay Tuned! 

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does."
William James

Amy

Just me...

WOW!  It has been a LONG time.  I must warn you, this post is VERY personal to me, and may be more information than you want to know. Serioulsy, I think I might be a little crazy to post this but  I feel it's important. Now that the disclaimer is out of the way,  let me explain where I have been and why it has been so LONG.  There has been a turn of events in my life that has created a great deal of stress, physical pain and emotional chaos.

 Let's start with where we left off.  I was getting ready to take my CPT exam and be in my first fitness photo shoot.  I was well beyond "right on track" with diet and training to be in the best shape possible for my shoot.  I contemplated  a decision that would change my life.  I decided to take this rather large window of opportunity to have what is know to be cosmetic, but in my case and mind was corrective surgery.  I decided to have a breast augmentation and a lift, to restore what I once had pre-kids.  This is something I have been wanting to do for several years.  February 14th, I went in for what I thought would be the best Valentines Day present ever.  I went home that night and began the recovery process.  It went well for about 4 days.  I started to bleed on day 5.  I had developed a hematoma.  This is one of the risks involved in this type of surgery.  It was simply draining on its own.  After 3 weeks of "draining" it finally stopped.  It left however a rather large hole that exposed my implant.  I was to then undergo a corrective surgery where they would go in and make sure all of the remaining blood was gone, and correct my incision. That surgery went well.  I was sent home with a drainage tube attached and actually felt pretty good.  I was to change the tubes as they filled.  We went through all of the tubes a little too soon. I had developed a seroma. (it's the same thing as a hematoma, the only difference is the red blood cell count)  We went and saw the Dr. and the excess fluid built up inside and created pressure on my new incision.  Note! My skin in that area was already very thin.  So, the incision had started to open again.  They acted fast and very carefully gave me 9 stitches and instructed me to do absolutely nothing for the next 4 days to see if the stitches would hold.  Needless to say, they didn't.  The only other option at this point was to remove the implant, sew me up and let the area completely heal.  That is what we did. So for the next week and half, I changed drainage tubes.  The drainage tube actually became the problem and my skin started to open up yet again.  They removed the tube, and I was to now left with an open wound.  My husband was instructed to pack this wound that runs along the bottom of my breast in both directions.  This was very uncomfortable.  My hubby was a super star! He did most of the changing.  Over this time I had developed some chest inflammation and back pain.  We all thought this was a result of the trauma to my chest.  As time went on, it got worse.  I actually went to a chiropractor who then explained to me that it was an "out of place" rib! (?)  He proceed to "treat" me.  However, The pain elevated to excruciating.  I could not move and had a hard time breathing.  After a week or so, I finally decided to see my Family Dr.  I explained to him my situation and history.  He then told me that it was simply just inflammation and that, in time, it would heal.  So, over that weekend, I started to feel a little better.  We had an appointment with my surgeon on Monday to finally give me stitches and let me heal.  I went in on Monday and he discovered some crazy tissue that was developing.  He searched for the source and found a "tunnel" that went all of the way to the top of my breast.  He numbed me up and had to "clean"out all of the bad tissue.  The good news is, this was the source of my chest and back pain!  So, now I have a 4 inch opening at the bottom of my breast that has 2 holes my amazing husband packs with gauss 2 times a day.  One hole is 2 inches wide and goes 4 inches up.  The other is a small tunnel that bends up the side.  The whole process takes 15-30 minutes and is extremely mentally exhausting.  We don't know how long it will take this wound to heal.  It could be 2-4 weeks. We are just taking  it one day at a time.  I have finally been able to focus and get off medications.  I feel so much better now that the chest and back pain is fading.  During the past 10 weeks, I have had to put off everything I loved.  No playing with the kids, and no weight training or cardio training, and no volleyball.  I was depressed.  I lost 8 lbs of mass, and have had no appetite.  My kids have suffered too.  They have had to deal with a grumpy mom that was constantly in pain and always exhausted.  I had turned into someone I thought I would NEVER become.  I had hit the bottom.  With the support of my husband, family, and friends, I was able to pick myself up and dust myself off.  I'm not the type of person that "regrets" anything.  Our mistakes make us who we are.  I don't regret this decision.  I am still very hopeful in the end result.  I don't blaim anyone, this is all just strange and it happened to me. I personally feel that I am meant to learn something from this experience. I plan to take it all in and make the best of it.  I hope to be done with all of this in the next 8 weeks.  I CAN do this!  I CAN do anything I set my mind to!  Now that my mind is in the right spot, everyday gets easier.  I hope to start cardio training by the end of next week! I'm excited to take that step.  I want to personally thank all of my family and friends that have supported me, and said kind, motivating words to encourage me.  I love you all.  I hope there is someone who reads this and can draw strength from it.  So, that is what I have been up to for the past 10 weeks, but I'm BACK! I'm excited to get moving again. I NEED this!

I do have some GREAT news in the mist of all of this chaos!  I was finally able to take my CPT exam today.  I PASSED! It's officially, official.   So, I will be announcing the winners of the contest in 1 week.  That will give any of  you a chance to catch up or go beyond.  To do so, go to the "contest" label on the right and it will give you all of the post that have contest challenges included.  GOOD LUCK!  I'm so excited to wrap this up! I apologize for this taking soooo long and I appreciate the support!

Thanks for your support!

-Amy

100 "LIKES"

I have reached 100 Facebook page "likes"! I'm pretty excited about this and to say Thank you, I'm posting a FREE work out! Most of you who voted wanted a FULL BODY work out and that is what you are going to get.  I'm going to cheat a little and give you a full body work out I designed with an emphasis on the glutes.  This work out is a 1 day work out you can use to burn fat and get tone.  There are 4 circuits with 3 exercises.  You will perform each circuit 3 times before moving on to the next circuit. Now, to keep you in fat burning mode you will only rest when all 3 exercises are complete.  You will rest 45-60 seconds and then repeat the circuit until you have completed it 3 times. Here is what it looks like:

Dead lifts 3 sets 10 reps
Stability ball chest press 3 sets of 10 reps
Inverted row 3 sets of 10 reps

Stability ball leg curl  3 sets 10 reps
Push press to calf raises  3 sets 10 reps
Stability ball lying pull overs  3 sets  10 reps

Stability ball hip raises  3sets 10 reps
Reverse lunge to curl  3 sets 10 reps
Stability ball skull crushers  3 sets 10 reps

Reverse hip raises  3sets 10 reps
Med. ball double crunch  3 sets 10 reps
Plank w/ alternating hip extension  3sets of 10 reps

Now, this is 1 day I pulled from a 5 day work out program that I designed for a client in California.  She is a few week into it and LOVES it so far.  You will all hear from her very soon.  If you are interested in the rest of this program, let me know.  I will NOT be posting the remainder of this program.

Because I appreciate ALL of your support, I'm going to post the demonstration videos that go with it.  Remember, this is only 1 day of a 5 day program. Only doing this work out will result in a muscle imbalance.  It is full body, but with an emphasis on the glutes.  You should be able to FEEL that. :)

Let me know what you think! This is my pride and joy right now...I really hope you enjoy it!

As for a personal update:  I'm FINALLY taking my CPR class on Monday and that will enable to FINALLY take the CPT exam! WHOOT WHOOT! I'm excited to make this official.  This is my passion and I'm so blessed to be able to share it with you. 

Thank you again!

Amy

Body by Blue

Building Strength

First of all...where have I been?  I have been studying like crazy, training harder than normal, watching my little guy learn to walk, and putting together a "virtual training package" for long distance clients!  Whoot Whoot!  All of this hard work is paying off.  I'm down 5 lbs since I started this! This is probably the hardest most grueling thing I have done.  There are some days I think to myself, "I'm fine with where I'm at" and then the reality of a camera pointed at me hits and I focus my efforts in clean eating and busting my booty at the gym. It's come down to what I eat and when.   There are days I'm exhausted and so some tweaking is needed but I think I have got it down.  With that...I have a recipe to share.  These are Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat muffins! Awesome for BREAKFAST! Perfect combo of protein, carb and healthy fat!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Muffins

1 cup oatmeal

6 egg whites

1 scoop of choc. protein powder

2 tsp pure cocoa powder

1 Tbsp Stevia

1/4 tsp of baking powder

2 Tbsp of NATURAL peanut butter

1/3 cup water

(Makes 6 muffins)

Mix the dry ingredients together in a large bowl.  Then add the egg whites, peanut butter and water.  Stir until mixed well.  Scoop into a muffin pan coated with cooking spray (they are pretty sticky) Bake at 350 for 25 mins.

Info per serving:

Calories 177

Protein 22g

Carbs 11g

Fat 5 g

Source: GO HERE

These look really runny in the bowl but they bake up very nicely! Great for the Kids too ENJOY!

As for my Training...I have added several different interupts to help keep my body in that fat burning zone.  For example: I wanted to see more muscle definiton in my legs so I added 30 jump lunges and 10 body squats in between each super set. When my work out was complete, I ended up doing 360 jump lunges and 120 body squats every day for 5 training day.  I lost 1.5 pounds that week and 1/2 inch in each of my thighs.  I was happy! 

I also added some more cardio.  When I say cardio some people automatically think of the treadmill or the elliptical.  I hate the ellipitcal.  I think it's a joke.  The only time you will see me on one of those is for some recovery time and for some rage of motion with my knees.  However, I can accomplish that on a BIKE! Sorry about my little rant...I decided to add a BODYSTEP class to my workout.  I worked it in for Saturday mornings.  This class works my "problem" areas (legs and booty)  while keeping my heart rate up.  I love it!  One more way I added cardio in was by adding 1-2  quick 15 min HIIT session. I LOVE IT as well.  I'm on a steady 1 pound per week pace.  That puts me right on target. 

If you are looking for a boost in your work out, try adding in the jump lunges and body squats. Or simply add in 2-3 HIIT sessions after your work outs. GO HERE for a great example. It WORKS!

Now for chest excersies:

I suggested negative only push ups the other day on Facebook...

The best way to build strength in an area is to do Negative only reps.  For example, I'm working on my chin ups.  In order to build extra strength, I start in the "up" postition and slowly lower myself down in a 4 sec.  count.  I do 3 sets of 8-10.  You can use this for push ups as well.  Start in push up postion and drop down quickly but controlled and raise yourself slowly to a 4 second count. 3 sets of 10 will get you off of your knees while doing push ups in NO TIME!  The flat bench chest press:  start with weights directily above you, lower as fast as you can controled and push up slowly.  To make this a little more advanced, do alternating arms.  Keep the opposite arm locked while pressing the other. You see where I'm going with this...I will have example videos up soon.  Until then....

Thanks ladies!

CONTEST:  It's almost over!  Try the Neg. only Push ups and tell me what you think. 5 POINTS

Strong Back

This has been a crazy week for me...I wanted to show you some of my back exercises but I could never work out a time to have my super cute camera guy, aka hubby,  to help me.  So you get something a little better.  I'm going to share with you my biggest success secret, Her name is Flavia Delmonte.  She is awesome! I have achieve 90% of my success so far from her work outs.  There now you know!  She has inspired me to think "outside of the box" in fitness.  I have learned so much from her.  You can learn more about Flavia RIGHT HERE.  So on to her back exercises.  I have done this and LOVE it! Give it a try and let me know what you think.  NOTE: you can substitute the barbell for dumbbells at home.

GOOD LUCK!

Inspired by my personal push up challenge (if you don't know what I'm talking about visit the "my push up challenge" page above) I wanted to show you a few chest exercises with some arm work outs that will help you increase your push ups as well.  I will have that for you ASAP!

Honestly, I will only be posting once a week until I can get my CPT certification done.  I'm focusing my energy there.  However, I do post fun little pick me ups on my Facebook page.  Please show some love and stay connected by "like" ing my page VISIT HERE

A little personal update: I'm excited to share that I will be doing my first photo shoot in MARCH!  I have 12 weeks to get photo ready.  I have some help from a couple trainers that I LOVE!  I get some very helpful info from them.  I wanted to share this experience here with you as well!  I'm excited! The Purify detox/cleanse system was an awesome way to jump start this journey.  I lost 2 lbs and nearly 1% of body fat for my first week.  This is from an already lean state.  By using that system my body is now completely ready to function at 100%.  This will be FUN! 

My new favorite snack:  I love ice cream! especially when I'm watching a movie.  Now obviously I won't be eating ice cream for a while so I came up with this sweet treat. 

Berry Frozen Yogurt

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/2 cup berries

1 tbsp Stevia

Mix well and place in freezer until semi frozen

Delightful!

I usually share this portion with my hubby:)

CONTEST:  Try these back exercises and let me know what you think! 10 POINTS  Leave another sweet (sugar free) recipe in the comments and receive 5 POINTS

Thanks Ladies!

Fresh Start!

Wow! It feels like it has been FOREVER! I love my new Internet.  We have been without for about a week.  Now, it time to get caught up.  I love the beginning of the year!  It's a great time to start fresh, hence the new blog look. What do you think? Anyway,  I  LOVE resolutions, as long as they keep changing every year.  Weight loss seems to be at the top of the list for most people.  I know my gym has been a little fuller since January 1st and statistically speaking, most of the newbies will be done by February.  NOT GOOD!  For those of you who have made resolutions, I have a few tips you could try to turn those resolutions into habits.  First of all, write them down where you can SEE them everyday and read them.  I like to use a dry erase marker on my bathroom mirror.  Next, is to find a partner! It is so much easier to have a support system.  You always want to surround yourself with people that support you, and that are headed in the same direction as you.  For example, a work out or running partner is awesome!  You are less likely to skip a gym session or a run if you have to call your partner to cancel.  Third, is to set a time line.  Some people set a resolution for the year and that can be overwhelming.  Set a date!  For example, be sugar free for 3 weeks.  By setting a date, you can see an end point. Once you get to that end point, reevaluate your goal.  Push yourself to the NEXT level. You will soon see that your way of thinking will change.  Keep in mind, it takes 3 weeks to make something a habit.  You can do it!  I have a post that I did a while back that has some more good info. Visit Here

Here are a couple updates:

I will HAVE my CPT by Feb. 17th! WHOOT! I did take some time off in December to enjoy the season.  My family also celebrates 2 birthdays and an anniversary.  We love to party but It feels great to be back.

that means...

The CONTEST is almost over!  There are a few of you who are rockin it! As a refresher, this is what I'm giving away:

10 personal training sessions by ME! valued at $500.00

1 Purify Cleanse and Detox system valued at $130.00

30 day supply of Zrii Achieve, all natural meal replacement valued at $108.00

If you want to get caught up or are NEW you can still do so! I have labeled all challenges under the contest label. Or, visit RIGHT HERE to get started.

I have some chest and back exercises to show you, I'm just waiting on the video...I will have that up this weekend.

CONTEST: In the comments, leave your thoughts on New Year's resolutions. Love/Hate or any tips you have for keeping them. 5 POINTS

Thanks everyone!
"Take control now. Forget about the negative thoughts which others have told you - that you are too old or too young. Stop letting the thoughts of others rule your life; stop being weak and cowardly, blaming your lack of progress on those negative programs. If you begin now and become a do-er, you will have earned your right to remain here."
~Thomas D. Willhite~