Paint Me Pretty: My 4 Favorite Summer Nail Colors

I have a little nail obsession. If you know me, you probably know I always have my nails done. The main reason I like having my nails done is... when you have your nails done you feel girly even when you wear workout clothes all day long.

1. Gelish: Make You Blink Pink

The perfect Barbie pink for summer!

Buy this pretty GEL color here.

2. OPI: Mod About You

I am mad about this color! It's the perfect blend of cotton candy and white <3

Buy this in the Gel color here.

Buy this regular polish here.

3. Gelish: I'm Brighter Than You

This is really bright, and perfect for vacation!

Buy this bright GEL color here.

4. OPI: Bubble bath

This is the PERFECT neutral, and will go with ANY outfit!

Buy this pretty neutral GEL color here.

Buy this pretty neutral regular polish here.

Fab Workout Clothes by Fabletics

I am so proud to announce I am now an ambassador for Fabletics. Fabletics is a new fitness clothing line co-founded by Kate Hudson.

Some things I love about the products:

Cute designs: These clothes are girly enough to make you feel cute at the gym, sporty enough to make you feel not too done up, the fit it great (you won't be pulling your pants up all day), and the material is seriously comfortable!

Affordable: These clothes are quality, but won't break your budget.

Convenient: Get workout clothes sent to your door every month! Cute, and gives you the inspiration you need to get your workout in.

Personalized: Each month you get clothes that are based on what you like. Colors, fit, style, and by the exercises you enjoy.

Could this site be any better?

Here's my favorite outfit right now!

The Salar capri: Pink Grapefruit BUY HERE
The Aventura tank: Heather White BUY HERE
The Sevan sports bra: Heather Grey BUY HERE


Get 20% off your first outfit by clicking here

Love your body

"I don't workout because I hate my body, I workout because I love it".

This quote hits home for me. For a while I worked out because I was unhappy with the way I looked, now I workout because of the way it makes me feel. 

Day in and day out I train people to reach their goals. The sad part is the majority of them aren't working out to feel good, reduce stress, or be empowered. Most of them want to lose five pounds, fit in their wedding dress, or look good in a bikini on their next vaca. Please, hear me out.

These small goals aren't bad, because if it's something you want.. Only you can be the judge on if it's a good or bad goal. The point I want to make is that it isn't easy to reach your goals if you are punishing yourself. When you are punishing yourself you tend to be in a negative state of mind, so let's evaluate negative goals.

Negative goals might be something like " If I don't fit in to the dress(suit for guys) I will be that chubby out of shape girl/guy at the wedding". This doesn't help you make a long lasting plan to not be the chubby person, this is short term and probably won't inspire you to make lifestyle changes.

Try setting a positive goal.

" I look good, but I don't feel my best in that dress/suit. I deserve to love my body, so I am going to start taking care of it. Starts tomorrow, and I am going to do whatever I can to get in the best shape of my life". This is more empowering, and you are more likely to stick to it.

Work towards your goals because you love yourself, not because you feel inadequate! 

Monday Squat Day

Sometimes you have to kick your own ass to build an ass. 

I just did this:

1 mile run (fast)

20 squats (I did 135lb barbell)

20 sit-ups 

20 box jumps (32inch)

15 of all 3

12 of all 3

10 of all 3

8 of all 3

5 of all 3

1 min rest 

20 back lunges (50lb barbell)

20 sprinter sit ups

40 power box jumps (24 inch box, alternating feet)

15-15-30

10-10-20

1 min rest

15 glute kickbacks

15 squat jumps for distance 

15 reverse crunches

12 of all 3

10 of all 3

8 of all 3

5 of all 3

1 mile run (slower pace)

Seriously, What Is Your Dream?

Do you dream about taking a vacation? 

How about a nicer car? 

Do you want a better job?

Want to start your own business?

Whatever it is, you can make those dreams your reality. We are all dreamers, but little of us are doers. When you know your ideas are amazing, why keep them as notes in a book or just a silly dream? One thing I always say is "don't talk about it be about it". If you spend tons of time wondering "what if"...just imagine how much actual work you could get done building your dream in that time. 

I used to sit in my apartment and research everything I could about fitness. I would look at diets, and workouts. I wanted to do a competition for about 3 years. I have no clue why it took me 3 years to do, but after achieving that and pushing myself to get out of my comfort zone I learned one thjng. I become proud of myself when I do it. When I become proud I become confident, and I start doing more. The momentum keeps going and I begin risking more and achieving more. The cycle has led me to get my dream job, and start two side businesses. I also have been able to take more trips, because I was able to make more money than ever. It all started with a dream, and following it. 

I could go on for days, but the point I am trying to make is. Not only when it comes to work, but when it comes to every goal or dream you have. You need to make that goal a MUST. You need to do everything in your power to MAKE it happen. There are no if ands or butts when you put everything you have in to achieving your goals. 

The only person holding yourself back from your dreams are yourself. Life is too short to not see them through.

SF INFINITY: Best Moves for Your Butt

We joke about calling SF Infinity a "Glute Building Community," but the truth is ... that we are! The muscles we sit on all day are some of the most important and biggest muscles in your body. And who doesn't like a nice toned bum?

Here are some exercises to work on those glutes:

 

-SQUAT

 

-DEADLIFT

 

 -FRONT SQUAT

 -STEP-UPS

-SUMO SQUAT

-LUNGES

-BRIDGES

-CURTSEY LUNGE

-BOX JUMP 

Fitness Classes You MUST Try in San Francisco

Is it hard for you to get motivated to hit the gym? Sometimes you need to try something new and exciting. Add a fitness class to your weekly routine for that extra push you need to maximize calorie burn and achieve your fitness goals.

My favorite SF classes:

SF Infinity: Of course I love Infinity. Lindsay and I designed our ladies only workout community to kick you in to shape while having fun. While jamming to awesome music we warm you up then begin with 15 Minutes of cardio, followed by 15 minutes strength, and we finish with a 15 Minute challenge. After the workout we have an event planned with a local business. We partner with a variety of fitness, wellness, and health related companies to share what SF has to offer. We highly encourage our workout crew to hangout outside of Infinity, so keep reading to see which class you want to try with your new infinigirl. Click here to sign up for one of our classes.

The Pad Yoga: I die for some yoga after a week of strength training. The Pad Studios is my favorite studio in SF. I love the bright and clean vibe, and the instructors know their shit. Seriously, I leave this place not even remembering what just happened to me. I am able to workout and relax. When else does that happen? Click here to see class schedule.

Barry's Bootcamp: Finally, an ass kicking workout. SF fitness peeps are hardcore, so it's about time we get more hardcore gyms. Barry's is opening up next week. The classes are designed for maximal calorie and fat burning. Expect 30 minutes of cardio and 30 minutes of strength training. This place will also be equipt with an über healthy fuel bar to enjoy a post workout snack with your bestie. Click here to check out Barry's Bootcamp SF schedule.

BodyRok: Whenever I think Pilates, I think of not so fit girls flipping around on the floor expecting a six pack. Well this is NOTHING like what I expected. BodyRok is equipt with SPX reformers(what I see as normal reformers on crack), and some really fun instructors. I have never left a class that didn't involve weights shaking the way I was. It is super hard, but the best part about it is it's only 45 minutes. Don't worry it's plenty of time to get your butt and core work in. Sign up for a Pilates or spin class here.

SoulCycle: Ok I have to be real with you, SoulCycle is super Marina. Blonde skinny girls walking in and out all day long. Don't let it intimidate you! It is actually a really really fun workout with some even more fun music. Grab a friend and try it, because it's always better suffering with a gal pal by your side. They have tons of classes, so no excuses. Sign up here.

TRX: We are so lucky to be in such a fit city. TRX headquarters are based in SF. This means the best instructors and the toughest classes are just a short walk away from your front door. Try a TRX class for a total body workout. I love TRX classes, because you can steal moves and start adding them in to your gym routine! Check out the class schedule here.

Workout Clothes: What To Wear For Different Activities

When it comes to working out, you need to dress the part. Ladies, we need to make sure our "assets" are in place and our feet are supported. Proper workout gear is a MUST before you set foot in a gym or trail. I am going to list what you need for the gym, yoga class, or running (outdoor activities).

GYM GEAR:

INOV8 SHOES: I find Inov-8's better for the gym, doing box jumps, classes, lifting, or any gym work.

Lulu crop pants:

Gym tank: $26

 

RUN GEAR:

Nike run hat: $24

BROOKS running shoes:$120

Athleta Run Pants: $64

Lululemon Top Speed Sports Bra: $52

Run tank:

YOGA GEAR:
Yoga Mat:

Yoga sports bra: $42

Yoga pants: $72

Yoga tank: $48

Hats On Hats On Hats

So many of my friends say, " I wish I could wear that". Well, to be honest, when I look at most clothes and accessories I think the same thing. The difference is, I actually try it and go for it. 

Not many people take fashion risks, because it's so much easier to go with what we know looks good. Trying a new accessory like a hat, can spruce up an outfit in seconds! There are so many styles, colors, and brands. Here are some of my faves! 

Wide brim felt hat: good for blocking the sun &/or rain, wear with sweaters, long sleeve maxi dresses, shorts & graphic tees, also great for travel. 

Sports team hats: good for hiking, running, dressing down a fancy outfit, wearing around town while running errands, gym sessions, and road trips.

Panama hat: This summery hat is perfect for days at the park, brunch, beach days, tea, horse races, pool parties, wedding showers, and walking around town.

This black fedora is a definite fashion statement. This can be worn year round with dresses, shorts, jackets, boots, sandals...anything! I highly recommend a hat like this.

Every girl needs a good floppy hat. They are perfect for spring and summer. Awesome for strolls, brunch attire, weddings, baby showers, beach days, vacationing, daytime outings, and outdoor events.

Last but not least, a knit beanie. When it's windy out, I have to throw a beanie on before leaving my house. In order to keep my hair from flying all over the place a beanie is a must. Colorful beanies are great because you can wear them day and night. This one was $6 at Forever 21! 

Achieving Your Fitness Goals

When you have set a goal for yourself, make sure you see it through. Some goals aren't realistic, so here's some ways to set goals you will can can acheive

1. Make sure it is maintainable with your lifestyle. Once you know that, make it your routine. 

- example: you want to workout 6 days a week.

       -Can you schedule this every week? Look ahead, and do it!

       -On days where you see a conflict, can you wake up early or go to bed later to get it in?

       -Put this goal as a priority, and put it before events or gatherings if they aren't important. Go to the events after your workout.

-example: you want to change your eating habits.

       -Great! Now what? Saying it doesn't mean you've taken action. Are you going to pack your meals everyday? Start planning out your meals and make sure you are getting an adequate balance and variety of food in your plan. You can even plan your "treat" meals if you know a special occasion you want to not have a planned meal.

       -Seek help from a dietician to quit the guessing game. You need to make sure you don't mess up your metabolism with eating too much or too little. David is the best, feel free to email him dmg2140@tc.columbia.edu.

- example: losing 10 pounds in 3 weeks.

       - yes.. it's doable, but crash dieting can really mess up your metabolism. What's the point in working that hard, and not earn lasting results. You will gain it back in half the time it takes to come off.

2. Make sure it's realistic.

-example: I want to look like Kim K.

       -Kim K. is bangin, but she's also genetically built different than you and I. With proper weight training and nutrition you can definitely build an hour glass shape, but you can't change your bone structure. Darn, I am 5'9 and Caucasian, it's just not in the cards for me.

-example: losing weight for my girlfriends wedding.

       -yes, you want to look good in pictures. My advice is to start early. Don't wait for the two weeks before. Your body needs time to adapt and adjust to your new habits. 

       - Juice cleansing isn't going to last. You lost water weight and feel lighter, but that weight is coming right back if you don't change the way you eat after the cleanse.

3. Re-assuring success 

- example: tell your friends about your goal

         -Your friends need to understand why you are doing what you're doing. Telling them you're on a diet, they will most likely tell you that you don't need it. Telling them you need to feel better in your skin is a whole other story, and I'm sure they will support you. 

          -If your friends aren't supportive, and only support your bad habits (or encourage them) it's time to reassess your friends.

- example: reward yourself

         -when you reach your workout and nutrition goals spoil yourself with something. Workout clothes, cofee or tea, makeup, a massage, mani/pedi, hair products, or something else you enjoy.

I hope these tips help you reach your goals! They help me with mine :) 

Gone Bananas Smoothie

I have a smoothie obsession. They never get old as long as I mix things up a little. I happen to have some perfectly ripe bananas and decided to make this smoothie after my workout.

It's pretty delicious, and I definitely recommend adding the cinnamon and vanilla extract. If you want it a little more sweet (maybe your bananas aren't very ripe), you can add stevia for extra sweetness.

Workout: Outdoor Cardio Circuit

Ok, I killed myself today in a no equiptment outdoor workout. Today wasn't about lifing, it was about enjoying the SF sunshine and being creative with my training. I was having so much fun I really forgot how hard I was working until after I finished and had to lay in the grass for 10 minutes.

Try it out, or try out a portion of it!!!

Run to a hill nearby (I ran 1.5 miles to a park down the way)

Start at the bottom of the hill 

10 squats 

Sprint up the hill (about 100meters)

10 squat jumps

Run down the hill 

10 squats 

Run backwards up the hill

10 squat jumps 

Run down

Repeat 5 more times.. But interchange the squats(rd 1) with sit ups (rd 2) pushups (rd 3) lunges(rd 4) burpees (rd 5)

Then run to a flat area and complete 

10 inchworms 

20 walking lunges 

10 squat jumps for distance 

Complete 3 rounds

I then ran to another grassy area .5 miles away to drop my heart rate a bit and completed

10 squats 

20 side lunges(10 each leg)

30 leg raises

40 plank shoulder touches 

100 meter sprint 

Complete this circuit 5 times

I had 10 minutes to kill so I finished with 5 rounds 

10 squat jumps 

10 back lunges 

10 burpees

10 sit ups with a twist

I then jogged back.

 

Plan, Pack, & Prep For Results

Are you trying to get in the best shape of your life? Do you feel like every time you start getting on track you fall right off? Well you aren't alone. I have felt this way so many times, and have come to one simple conclusion; meal prep. 

I truly only see the results I want when I plan, pack, and prep my meals before I leave my house. I bought a cooler like this to take with me to work, and with me when I am out and about. It sounds crazy to some people, and yes it is much easier to grab pre packaged processed foods for your meals. In order to see results and see progress, you need to know what you are eating.

So what should you eat?

It all depends on your goals, and I know you want a quick answer.. There isn't one. This is why working with a registered dietician is helpful. No, you don't need to pay them tons of money every single week for the rest of your life. They will look at your current meals, and help you alter your regime to help you acheive the goals you set. On top of that, they will educate you on why you should eat what you are eating. In working with my nutrition coach MJ and R.D David I not only gained knowledge I still use today, but I gained some delicious recipes & tips.

Every time I start meal prepping, I start seeing muscle tone within 2 weeks. I'm not starving myself. I'm just cutting out things that are hidden and added to our meals when out like sauces, dressings, oils, salt, sugar, and overall too big of portions.

Try meal prepping this week, and see how you feel.

To really educate yourself, and hit your goals email David Goldman who is a registered dietician who graduated from Columbia. I have seen him work wonders on transforming bodies, and lives. Email David: dmg2140@tc.columbia.edu

My Journey: Do What Makes You Happy

This ones going to be long... 

My journey isn't a simple one, and if you want to know the deets here you go. I am going to be very candid about my fitness journey and what my next steps are going to be. 

To start, I have always been an athlete. I played numerous sports growing up and in high school played three varsity sports (volleyball, soccer, and track). I got recruited to run track in college, and I jumped at the opportunity. It wasn't until my freshmen season when I got injured that my real journey in fitness began. For the first time, nothing came easy. To clarify... When I was growing up practices were super hard, but I was just an overachiever and could push myself to crazy limits. That being said I could eat whatever I wanted. Chips, ice cream, pizza, burgers, etc. All of that ended in college. I noticed the freshman 15 turned in to the 20, and I needed to learn about proper nutrition.

I threw myself in to diet books (bad idea) and became obsessed with fitness. Now not as an athlete, but as a gym goer. I counted calories, and as I mentioned earlier I like to overachieve I made sure I did. I lost the freshman 20 and then some. I think I went a little overboard with numbers, and found myself thinking that I didn't even look fit I just looked skinny. At that point my journey took a different turn.

It isn't about being skinny, it's about being fit. I decided to strength train, and instead of calorie count I would make sure to get in my macros (protein, carbs, and fat). This is when I started my blog. I loved my workouts and clean eating. 

I then decided to step it up a notch and after a few years of clean eating I wanted to do one of the fitness competitions I was reading so much about. I was working two jobs, and training like a maniac. In preparation for my competition I cut out everything bad, worked out hours on end, and made it a priority to see results.. Which I did. I got 3rd place and felt great.

After the competition my years of meal prepping went out the door due to getting a great new job that serves food for free at work. After getting the job I maintained clean eating, but didn't weigh my food or care to anymore. I slowly started putting on weight, but didn't mind it because I was enjoying myself. Drinking on the weekends in moderation, and treating myself in moderation. For me it isn't that easy though, I'm not that lucky to just have it easy. I have to work my ass off day in and day out to get results I want.

After this trip I just got back from, I decided that I want to take my happiness back. I started last Wednesay and I am completing 9 weeks of a program. 9 weeks of meal prepping, intense workouts, no wine, no sugar, or junk. The reason is that I give a lot of myself to friends and clients everyday. I need to give myself back that same amount or even more. I want to be confident in my skin, just like everyone else strives to be. 

I am on a journey that just continues, but right now I am reeling it back in and doing it for me. If you are someone who needs an extra push, or a little motivation please look within yourself. You can do anything you put your mind to. If you need support on your journey I am here. I know I love having support on mine.

Now let's kick some major ass.

 

Benefits Of Drinking Lemon Water

Fresh lemon water is my go to drink of choice, especially after travel! I just take a 1/2 a lemon, squeeze the juice in to my water jug in the morning and refill with

fresh water throughout the day!

Benefits:

Hydrating

Lemon water is very alkalizing and helps balance pH levels 

Aids liver cleansing 

High in Calcium, potassium,& vitamin C

Helps rid visceral fat

Natural diuretic 

What To Pack: My Travel Musts

Ok. Let's be real, I'm a girl! There are some travel necessities! I am in Greece and wanted to share my top items I packed for this beachy trip.

1. Stunna shades, so I look cool

2. Dry shampoo, because who washes their hair everyday 

3. Itsy bitsy teeny weenie bikini, self explanatory  

4. Ball cap, I don't want wrinkles y'all 

5. Tinted moisture, SPF plus a little shimmer 

6. Nude sandals, because they go with everything and anything

7. A floral dress, because it's spring

8. A nude lip, you can't go wrong with

9. Gold bling, to dress up beachwear to nightwear

10. Bright Blush, to make a pop of  your tan

Travel. Be Wild. Be Free.

Being aware and recognizing which way your life is going is quite empowering. Do you know what you are good at, enjoy, get motivated, and thrive doing? Do you also know what nerves you, makes you uninspired, and slows down your progress?

Well for me I think I am really aware of all of the above. I can recognize when I need a break. When I've overdone it or just need to mix things up. This goes for all aspects in ones life.

Traveling for me brings balance I yearn for. It's not the balance that you search for and all of the sudden find. When I travel I get inspired. I see sunshine, feel joy, eat good food, chat with new people, & I spend time really soaking up all life has to offer. 

I see travel as investing in my happiness, well being, knowledge, relationships; all while getting a great tan. Travel has no limits. You create your wild life. No one writes your story but you. So what's your story going to be? 

You can get in your car and travel to a beach an hour away, you may grab a hotel in a city you've never been, pack some clothes and a tent for a camping trip. That's the best part of travel. Seriously, no rules! You don't need money, you just need an idea.

Pick a place. Share your story. Make sure it's wild and you run free! 

Switching Up Your Workout For Results

Do you go to the gym regularly? What about yoga? Do you run everyday?

When you are setting fitness goals it is important to look at the big picture. What is going to make you reach those goals. I am going to give you a few examples of goals, and common misconceptions of what it takes to reach them. I hope these will help you assess your goals, and actually make strides towards achieving them without becoming stagnant.

Why aren't you seeing the results you want?

-  Do you want to lose weight, or fat?

• Losing weight is easier than losing fat, because you can just cut calories and increase exercise. This doesn't mean you speed up your metabolism, it actually often results in the reverse. If you aren't feeding your muscles properly, you can slow down your metabolism.
• Do all sorts of exercises (don't just stick to one). Running a lot will make you a better runner, yes. Running everyday won't make you more flexible, stronger, or balanced. Look at fitness like you do food. You need a little bit of everything to complete a balanced approach.
• Nutrition is 75% of losing weight. You simply can't lose weight if you eat junk. Take a look at your diet, and start cleaning it up!

- Do you want to gain muscle?

• Gaining weight, in the form of muscle is extremely tough. When gaining weight you hit plateau's just like you do when losing.
• It's important to switch up your workout days. Your body becomes used to routine, and sometimes you need to shock your system. Do you always do legs on Monday, chest on Tuesday, etc., etc.? This week switch it up!
• Just like switching up your workout days you should switch up reps, sets, and exercises. Do you always perform 4 sets of 8 reps? Try heavier weights, or 5 sets of 6, and also hit the muscle from a different angle (instead of lat pull-downs, try a reverse grip).

- Are you bored at the gym?

• There isn't one way to reach your goal. Try new approaches to make sure things stay fun. Grab a friend and try a new class.
• Buy a new magazine to find inspiration (Muscle & fitness, Oxygen, Runners World, Yoga Journal, etc.)
• Download some new music to pump you up.
• Switch up the order of your workout to keep you on your toes and thinking.

- Do you hate gyms, or can't afford one?

• You can still reach your fitness goals! Time to do some research. What's around? 
• Park workouts, run trails, hiking trails, meetup groups, cycling clubs, swim teams, etc.
• Sometimes you have to think outside the box to keep yourself committed and engaged in this lifestyle. 

I hope you find some info in here that strikes you or inspires you. If you have any questions or need help finding your passion feel free to message me on Facebook!

Sweet, Sassy, & Sexy Spring Lip Trends

It's Spring! Bold beautiful lips with minimal face & eye makeup is SO in. I have hunted and picked my faves of the trend for you to rock this season: 

• The BRIGHT Red: NARS, Heat Wave 
  
• The PERFECT Orange: Tom Ford, Wild Ginger 
  

• PLUMP it with Purple:  MAC, Asain Flower
  

• PRETTY in Pink: MAC,Saint Germain

 

• CUTESY Peachy keen: Kevyn Aucoin, Timeless

Why Networking Is Important For Mid-Twenties

You know how people always talk about making sure you network, and to always make connections. They are talking about it for a reason. The reason most likely is that they have spent time networking & it's brought them some sort of success.

My personal opinion is you can't find true success until you network. Success, to me, isn't possible without recognizing all the steps it's taken you to reach it. No one builds a successful career without the help of others. 

What are my tips for you? 

- Get familiar with social media. Learn how to navigate Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Use these platforms to present yourself the way you would want someone who could be your future boss to see (less ranting and drunk pictures, more positivity and passion related posts).

- Connect online to people who you look up to or inspire you. Send them a note, and make the contact. The worse that can happen is they don't respond. On the other hand, they might want to connect and chat!

- Go to events, dinners, and hangout in areas you know have people that you are interested in talking to. You don't need I go to every single event every night of the week, but pick and choose the ones worth your while. DON'T just say hi and introduce yourself. You have to exchange information (Email, Phone, or Facebook), then follow up with them within 48 hours.

- Create a funky business card. People want to remember you, and if it's plain white they are less likely to remember your personality when they see it. 

- Be open to meeting new friends when you are at the gym, coffee shops, out at dinner. You never know who they know and who they can connect you to. 

- Go in to shops, businesses, and places you want to connect with. Send them an email asking for more info, and ask if they need help with anything. If you have aspecialty they might be looking for someone just like you.

Now, get out there! Don't be nervous. Success comes when you try, try really hard!