We’ve gained some serious ground since then, exercising the freedom to realize that we have myriad options when it comes to getting and staying fit – none of which require us to accept the boring, the intimidating or the ridiculously expensive when it comes to getting healthy, and staying strong and in shape.

We’ve summarized five such options here, all of which are likely to not only feed your passion but also awaken your active self.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, which means “gentle art” in Japanese, is an ancient form of martial arts, adapted in Brazil, which encourages leverage and balance over sheer strength.

Coming to international prominence in the martial arts community in the early 1990s, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu proves that size is not the most important factor. Superior skills, joint locks, chokes and other finesse techniques can help gain an edge over and defeat a larger, stronger opponent.

A Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class may begin with stretching, followed by calisthenic and aerobic drills. Typically, a new student will learn one move per day and then be paired with a partner to practice and hone the technique. There may then be an extended round of live grappling, where participants improve their skills and put them to the test in a trial by fire.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is similar to kinetic chess and one of the only martial arts where you can spar at 100% capacity on a daily basis.

• Conditioning  ****
• Flexibility ****
• Weight Loss****
• Strength ***

CrossFit

CrossFit is a strength and conditioning system consisting of constantly varied, if not randomized, functional movements executed at high intensity. The concept was originally developed by US Navy Seals with the goal of creating a variety of workouts not requiring any special tools or exercise equipment.

CrossFit not only trains your entire body to actually be used, but trains you in how to use your body to it’s fullest extent. Each workout combines a set of varied movements done with high intensity in relatively short bursts, in order to stress and confuse many different muscles. CrossFit workouts are usually only 20-30 minutes in duration.

In addition to developing every muscle group, CrossFit is intended to build proficiency in ten different physical skills: cardiovascular/respiratory endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, agility, balance, coordination, and accuracy.

CrossFit, Inc. is a fitness company founded in 2000. As of 2012, there are over 3400 CrossFit-affiliated gyms worldwide and CrossFit workouts are used in thousands of private affiliated gyms and many fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and military organizations.

The CrossFit program is designed for universal scalability making it the perfect application for any committed individual regardless of experience.

• Conditioning  *****
• Flexibility ***
• Weight Loss****
• Strength ****

Krav Maga

Krav Maga, meaning “contact combat” is a system of martial arts created by Israel Defense Forces emphasizing aggression, intensity, threat neutralization and simultaneous defensive and offensive skill.

Krav Maga is not a sport, but a system based on principles and concepts and is considered by many as the most devastating fighting and self defense system in the world.

Participants work with grappling, wrestling, and striking techniques as well as weapon disarmament and how to negotiate with a potential attacker.  The cardio exercises have a CrossFit feel, where you engage in workouts that combine various components. Students learn to defend against any type of attack before engaging in full-contact sparring.

Krav Maga is known for its focus on real-world situations and extremely efficient, brutal counter-attacks. A key principle is finishing combat as fast as possible with all all attacks aimed towards the most vulnerable parts of the body — the face, neck, groin, knee, etc. The aggressive training style helps overcome fear, hesitation and nervousness, all of which are inherent in human nature.

• Conditioning  ****
• Flexibility ***
• Weight Loss****
• Strength ***

Parkour

Parkour is a spectacular combination of gymnastics, obstacle movement and Ninja Warrior obstacle course running, with a focus on speed and efficiency.

Developed in France, parkour movements include running, vaulting, rolling, climbing and jumping. Parkour obstacle training develops superior cardiovascular conditioning, upper body and core strength, and extraordinary spatial awareness.

As parkour grew in popularity in the mid 2000s, military forces around the world began incorporating parkour into their training. The British Royal Marines hired parkour athletes to train their members and parkour is slowly being introduced into the United States Marine Corps.

Parkour is as much an art form as it is a sport, and indoor gyms focusing on parkour are becoming more and more common.

• Conditioning  ****
• Flexibility *****
• Weight Loss****
• Strength ***

Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a full contact sport combining the punches of boxing with the kicks of karate, a perfect art to learn self protection. Although the roots of kickboxing date back 2,000 years, modern competitive kickboxing came to the fore in the 1970s when American karate experts staged competitions that allowed full-contact kicks and punches, previously banned in karate.

Competitive kickboxers use a wide a variety of moves to disorient and defeat their opponents. Punches include the jab, uppercut and hook. The hook is among the most devastating of strikes as it powerfully contacts an opponent from the side at full force. Kicks are also devastating weapons with techniques including the front, hook, side, roundhouse and spinning back kicks. The latter is good for surprising opponents as the kickboxer quickly spins and drives his heel backward into his opponent.

Kickboxing workouts involve constant movement and the development of excellent coordination. A typical kickboxing class begins with stretching and calisthenics, followed by a few rounds of cardio, and  drills using pads. Sparring in kickboxing is done infrequently and often performed with limited power.

Kickboxing is a total body workout using body weight as resistance so no one muscle group is worked to excess. Kickboxing conforms to the individual instead of making the individual conform to it.

• Conditioning  *****
• Flexibility ****
• Weight Loss****
• Strength ***

• Know of other training methods and disciplines that help avoid workout boredom? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think!

Exercise is key to a healthier and happier lifestyle. We all know that a good workout program can burn fat, build muscle and improve coordination. Other, often overlooked benefits include an increase in self-esteem, relief from stress and a reduction in the risk of chronic disease.

Our friends at Vibram FiveFingers have developed this infographic illustrating the dos and don’ts of starting a new fitness routine. It includes valuable exercise tips and advice from professional trainers and fitness instructors to help you begin and continue a results-driven home exercise program.

Click to open image in new browser and again to zoom to full size

Courtesy of Vibram FiveFingers. View more health & exercise articles.

Research has shown that resistance band exercise is comparable to weight lifting with dumbbells in terms of building lean muscle. Unlike dumbbells, resistance bands can be used to work not only arms, shoulders and back, but also legs, abs, and glutes. By creating resistance against your muscles using your own body weight, you’ll get the benefit of longer, leaner muscles. Dumbbells limit your range of motion and are not as flexible when working the lower body. With resistance bands, you can do a variety of standing exercises along with floor work to cover all muscle groups. The flexibility of standing/stepping on or attaching them to a part of your body allows you to maneuver in more ways than one.

Women are increasingly finding resistance band exercises beneficial and opting for this form of strength training. It eliminates the awkwardness of working out in a weight room full of men and the potential for feeling intimidated. Resistance bands are ideal for stay at home moms who have limited time and want to make the most of their workouts. They also offer Pilates lovers more resistance in their moves, mixing up a boring routine and boosting the number of calories burned.

Men looking for variety or to slim down a previously bulky build without losing muscle or having it turn to fat will also benefit from resistance band workouts. They are easy on the joints and work with your own body weight to get into shape, making them a favorite among those with injuries or who want to build strength slowly.

Unlike barbells, dumbbells and strength training machines, resistance bands don’t require an entire room or section of a room dedicated to bulky equipment. And they are much more affordable. Resistance bands easily store away under furniture, in a closet, or a drawer. They’re also easy to transport for those who travel frequently and want to maintain their daily exercise routine — just pack them in your suitcase and work out in your hotel room. Tired of working out at the gym or at home? Throw them in the car and drive down to the local park. By combining a brisk walk with stops along the way to do resistance training, you will significantly boost your metabolism and burn more calories.

Resistance bands are rapidly becoming one of the most popular alternative workout methods. Try incorporating them into traditional weight lifting routines for variety and challenge.

• Read our Resistance Bands Reviews

What is Inversion Therapy?

Back pain can be largely attributed to the compression of the spine. An inversion table will allow you to widen the spaces between your spinal disks. How does it do this? It’s pretty simple – by eliminating the effect of gravity. Inversion tables are basically padded, pivoting beds to which you strap your feet and ankles, and once safely secured, you pivot the bed to the desired angle of inversion. The force of gravity and your own weight will be sufficient to stretch out the spine. Resulting benefits include improved circulation, flexibility and posture and relief from muscle tension and back pain.

Is Inversion Therapy Safe?

Inversion table therapy should be built slowly as little as one minute per session to start. This gradual process will  prevent injury. When used correctly, this form of therapy is safe, but you will still need to consult with your medical practitioner before you choose to make use of it.

There are cases in which inversion therapy can present a danger to your health. When you are inverted, your heart rate will begin to decrease and there will be a rise in blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, glaucoma or heart disease, you should not make use of this form of therapy. If you are pregnant, you should first consult with your doctor.  When beginning inversion therapy be sure to have someone standing by, in case assistance is required to get out of the table, or if health problems are experienced.

Are the Results of this Therapy Permanent?

This form of therapy can greatly alleviate back pain, but it is not necessarily permanent. In order to achieve permanent or long lasting results, patients will need to make use of a comprehensive treatment plan by combining inversion tables with other appropriate treatments.

Many people have found that they no longer experience debilitating back pain after a few weeks of therapy on inversion tables. It is important to remember, however, that individuals suffering from health related problems should always consult with their doctor before using alternative forms of therapy, or they might end up injuring themselves further as a result.

• Read our Inversion Table reviews
• Learn more about the medical benefits of Inversion Therapy at About.com
• Compare pricing on new and bestselling Inversion Tables

Luckily for us, modern technology has delivered more than just bigger TVs and smaller phones — we are now seeing an influx of increasingly space-efficient workout equipment, which can be just as effective,  if not better, than “real” workout machines at a commercial gym. If you’re not interested in paying for a gym membership, and you’re not a fan of the “bench and barbells on the front lawn” look, here are 5 exercise tools that will get you in shape without turning off your guests.

1. Resistance Bands
We’ll skip the most common and obvious choice for home workouts, dumbbells (and kettlebells for those P90X practitioners out there). They may not be a long-term solution since you can only vary your training regimen so many times before experiencing a plateau effect, forcing you to buy a different set of dumbbells. In order to avoid a mountain of growing dumbbells in your closet, resistance bands are a more viable option. Sometimes called “Bungies,” resistance bands can be adjusted for different levels of resistance, and unlike dumbbells, will help with muscle elasticity, increasing your strength as well as reducing your risk of injury.

2. Stability/Balance and Medicine balls
A very effective method for getting in shape, stability/balance balls can be used in conjunction with resistance bands for exercises ranging from core muscle workouts to pushups or squats. Although not the best option for the steroid enthusiasts looking to get “big,” using stability and medicine balls will put on more elastic, lean muscle, as well as develop your muscles interdependently, which increases your psycho-physiological connections, improving speed, coordination and reducing injury.

3. The Total Gym
The Total Gym and its many knockoffs may not appeal to hardcore gym users because of their lack of “heavy weights,” but for those who don’t think steroids are part of the FDA food pyramid, it’s more than enough if you’re looking to gain a considerable amount of muscle.  Because of its narrow silhouette and fold up design, the Total Gym takes up about as much space as a vacuum cleaner. However, Chuck Norris is not included.

4. Rowing machines
You may be surprised by the design and compact nature of modern rowing machines.  Many new models are foldable into extremely space efficient forms, taking up even less space than the aforementioned Total Gym and transforming so quickly that even Optimus Prime would blush. Besides, rowing motions don’t only improve your anaerobic respiration, but increase interdependence between your biceps, triceps, lats, pectorals and core muscles.  Working out muscles concurrently with each other doesn’t only save time, but, like mentioned earlier, increases your sense of proprioception, or the mind’s conscious and unconscious awareness of the body.

5. Ab belts
While myostimulation has its risks, ab belts are a safe form of home exercise because of slow-twitch core muscles’ resiliency to strain (relative to fast-twitch fibers in the arms that are quicker but more prone to injury). Ab belts can be used in conjunction with calisthenics or other exercises done in your home, and the workouts require very little effort.

By Aaron O’Connor

From the $2 jump rope to the $1,000-plus elliptical machine, home exercise equipment has continually evolved in sophistication and ability to deliver health benefits, with machines now designed for every level of fitness.

New equipment targets every muscle and fitness goal imaginable, with choices ranging from cheap infomercial fads to expensive gym-quality machines. Yet with the multitude of devices to choose from, many people may wonder — what is the best option for someone just getting started on the road to optimal health and fitness?

Luckily there’s an easy answer to this dilemma, a treadmill. These devices are excellent for beginner fitness training, as they can provide a person with as little or as much exercise intensity as they desire.

The ancestor of today’s machines was the medical treadmill, developed in the 1950s by cardiologist Robert Bruce (the father of exercise cardiology) and used for evaluating heart and lung health. It was a simple, flat surface set on rollers and human-powered. Bruce’s design was eventually sold to StairMaster, which then became the famous company, Nautilus. While the fitness center industry dramatically increased in popularity, more advanced treadmills began to be sold for home use as people realized they could get fit without going outdoors and enduring poor weather conditions.

Today’s treadmills come equipped with heart rate monitors, many different speeds and computers that record and compare workouts as well as calories burned. They can tilt to mimic uphill and downhill walking and running, which exercises different muscle groups for a more complete workout experience. Some models even have impact sensors in the belt to monitor stresses on backs, knees, feet and ankles.

As most treadmill reviews explain, these devices have several advantages for beginners over other types of home exercise equipment. The biggest advantage is that they are less complicated and expensive than elliptical machines. They exercise fewer muscle groups than rowing machines and ellipticals, which may be best for those just starting out, especially if back, neck or shoulder problems are present.

Impact on the joints is also an important consideration when choosing a treadmill over other types of exercise equipment, especially if a person is obese or arthritic. Treadmills are lower-impact than jump ropes and free weights, but higher-impact than ellipticals. Still, when used properly and with shoes that cushion the arch from the impact of walking and running, these devices provide an easy way to lose weight and increase stamina in relative comfort.

Treadmills also come in ahead of stationary bicycles, stair climbers, rowing machines and cross-country ski machines for burning calories, making them the best option if weight loss and reducing body fat is the user’s goal. While they can’t provide the strength training that free weights do, they’re much safer.

Similarly, unlike many home fitness machines, the moving parts of a treadmill other than the belt are enclosed in the deck. As such, there are no cables, weights or springs to snap or catch on clothing. However, it’s important to note that as with all exercise equipment, treadmills should only be used in rooms that are not accessible to young children.

Likewise, turned ankles, twisted knees and loss-of balance injuries are less likely for beginners using treadmills than other types of fitness equipment. The body’s center of gravity remains stable because movement goes in only one direction as the belt moves under the feet. In other words, the body doesn’t tilt forward, turn or twist and isn’t in the constant “falling” mode of normal walking. Balance problems are easily corrected by holding onto the hand grips, and balance training may be improved by learning to walk and run on the belt without using the hand grips at all.

Finally, treadmills are generally a better investment than the fad-fitness contraptions sold by infomercials. Where these gadgets don’t live up to their wild promises of perfect abs, buttocks and thighs, treadmills deliver, burning calories and increasing stamina, mile after mile.

Once the decision to workout on a treadmill has been made, individual fitness goals are the key factor in determining which type to buy. Setting these goals begins with a clear understanding of one’s baseline health. A person’s medical history of heart attack or stroke, high blood pressure, heart rate, weight and level of aerobic fitness should be determined and discussed with a doctor before beginning any type of exercise program. Medications that decrease heart rate artificially, such as beta blockers, must also be taken into account.

After a person’s baseline health is evaluated, fitness goals can be set and choosing a treadmill becomes much simpler. If the goal is to slowly take off weight and improve cardiovascular health just by walking, a basic treadmill is the best choice. These machines go up to 10 mph, feature a 10 percent incline and have a basic display that tracks speed, distance and calories burned. Their decks are short, to accommodate the stride length of a walker.

Slightly more expensive treadmills can measure a person’s resting heart rate at the beginning of a workout. If a target heart rate is programmed into the treadmill, the device will alert the person using it when that rate is reached. Since beginning exercisers are often enthusiastic about their goals, they may have a tendency to overdo before they’ve built up physical strength. However, treadmill electronics allow for a precise, monitored workout that yields maximum benefit without strain or damage to muscles, tendons and joints.

Able-bodied beginners who want to maintain or increase their aerobic fitness may want to consider a treadmill that has steeper inclining and declining angles that imitate outdoor conditions and have resistance settings in the deck to further tone and strengthen leg and back muscles. These models are the most expensive, but have the greatest flexibility and longer decks to accommodate the length of a runner’s stride.

It’s been shown by study after study that exercise can improve quality of life at every age and stage of health. Among the many types of exercise, walking is one of the easiest and most beneficial when done on a regular basis. As such, treadmills are a steady, reliable way to burn calories efficiently, without gimmicks and at relatively low cost.

The sites with blogs are regularly updated and keen on sharing useful information, with a focus on reader interest rather than just advertising and product promotion. The sites with community aspects aim to get people together in a supportive atmosphere to help each other with fitness goals and challenges.

The list is organized in no particular order. A true fitness portal may be followed by a simple blog managed by one individual.

	FitSugar FitSugar is part of the Sugar Inc. network of pop culture sites, primarily for Y-Gen women, but really for anyone and everyone. FitSugar covers everything from celebrity diets and fitness gossip to healthy tips, fitness programs and even game & online quizzes about fitness and health. You can join the Sugar community or just read through.
	LifeMojo LifeMojo is an all-in-one website that gives you a place to track and manage your fitness goals, with planning and measurement tools to help design your own fitness plan. Plus, the site features health and fitness articles, tips, nutritional guides, member forums and a health store. It’s run by a group of computer techs from India and a team of fitness and nutrition experts.
	Fitness Vortex Fitness Vortex offers products, reviews, programs and advice to those interested in starting or returning to a fitness program. You can find DVD programs, fitness product offers, and great tips to keep you in shape. You’ll also learn how to start your own fitness business as a Team Beachbody Coach. Latest: P90X2 Release Date and Review.
	CrossFit CrossFit is a fitness coaching service that trains military and law enforcement groups using their Cross Fit method, which is a combination of diet, cardiovascular exercise and weight training. The web site is all about their training programs and fitness philosophy, but has plenty of articles and information in their Journal section. Worth a look for serious fitness buffs.
	FitFiend FitFiend is a social network for those interested in fitness as well as professionals offering fitness advice and coaching services. They offer tons of articles, plus member blogs and product reviews. Much of the site is for members only (membership is free), but there’s plenty to browse too.

	Fat Man Unleashed You’ll find lots of great information on Fat Man Unleashed, including an active blog, articles on fitness, diet & weight loss, food & nutrition, and even tapping into your inner warriorness. There are plenty of photos and videos and giving your feedback is encouraged.
	SmashFit SmashFit is a unique idea in personal training. The site helps match those interested in fitness with the right personal trainer. You enter information about your goals and the kind of trainer you’re looking for…and the web site will provide options for you. You choose the one that fits best. A great way to find the right trainer for your needs and a unique fitness tool that deserves a spot on this list.
	Running Diva Mom This wife and new mother has turned to running for her personal time and fitness time on Running Diva Mom. Her passionate journey of combining motherhood and running is detailed in this fun and personal blog. Her goal is to run 1400 miles and she’s almost there.
	PEERtrainer PEERtrainer is an online fitness community of peers helping peers through their fitness challenges. It’s an active site with plenty of discussions and sub-groups, articles, offerings and more. You can also opt-in to their fitness coaching service, which helps you through the most important part of your own program…the motivation factor. Take a look.
	The Great Fitness Experiment Charlotte, a mom in her late 20s, is using herself as a test subject in The Great Fitness Experiment. She’s going to see if this stuff really works. You can follow her journey, which includes yoga, Pilates, foam rolling, running and other fitness practices. Humorous and personal, her journey may inspire you.
	Live Fitness Now Live Fitness Now offers reviews of fitness programs, products, health supplements and everything related to health and fitness. They offer special deals on fitness DVDs, exercise products, and health supplements. The blog has great information on new products and weight loss programs.
	DailyBurn DailyBurn offers tools to help you track your fitness results and manage your daily fitness program. This includes keeping track of what you eat, choosing and recording your workouts and exercise programs, and connecting with others who can share your journey and give you advice. They offer a food and recipe database, nutrition labels for products, and exercise programs that are working for their members. It’s free to join.
	Thrive Personal Fitness Thrive Personal Fitness is mostly a blog about fitness and health. The blog is offered in both video and text formats and the founder, fitness trainer Pamela Hernandez, offers her own coaching and support services too. Thrive provides a set of fitness calculators (body weight, calories, etc.) and a forum for her readers to connect with each other. Good recipes, tips and informational articles.
	Underground Strength Coach If you’re interested in hard-core muscle building and combat-like training programs, check out Underground Strength Coach. It’s about underground strength training programs with interviews of navy seals and the like. You’ll get pumped up if this is your kind of thing. It’s all in the attitude, dude.
	Fitness Spotlight Fitness Spotlight is a long standing fitness blog with tons of great articles and posts on fat loss, exercise, nutrition & cooking, lifestyle and more. They also offer their own “30-day Weight Loss Challenge” program, which comes with an e-book guide. Check out their “Best Of” page for their top articles.
	FitLink FitLink is a fitness community website with members sharing their workouts, forming sub-interest groups (like beginners, bodybuilders, staying motivated, etc.), and getting together with partners for workouts near their homes. With events and local resources, this site really strives to be a community, but there’s lots of good information there too if you just want to browse.
	FitConnect FitConnect is another fitness community or social networking site with members sharing their tips and workout experiences. This community is especially active in members sharing their tips through their own blogs and videos. The site is divided into social networking, advice on fitness and diets, and workout programs.
	Mun Fitness MunFitnessBlog is a classic blog-style site with great posts on fitness and health…and plenty of humor. The post “3 Types of Weird People at Gym” is a great example and will get you laughing. The objective is to impart “a layman’s experience in the world of working out.” The writing is great and there are plenty of photos.
	Valerie Waters Fitness Valerie Waters is a Hollywood fitness trainer and she knows how to use sex appeal to make her point. She is the creator of two workout programs for women: “Red Carpet Ready” and “I Want My Bikini Body.” These two programs have different goals, which she explains, along with her interesting blog posts and other offerings.
	The Facts About Fitness This is the site of Christian Finn, who holds a masters degree in exercise science (did you know you could major in that?). He’s been featured on TV and radio for his fat-burning and muscle-building workouts. The site has plenty of tips and a member’s area, which is a paid subscription to the site and all its resources.
	Zen to Fitness ZenToFitness is a lifestyle fitness site that offers advice on the inner journey to fitness and health…as well as the outer journey. The site offers lots of great articles on food, nutrition, and the mental side to health. The writer also offers an eBook called “A Simple Guide to Eating Well,” which provides a Zen-like approach to diet and nutrition.
	WellSphere WellSphere is an online health and fitness community that has numerous sub-groups for people interested in green living, healthy eating, liver & kidney disease, skin health, heart health, endurance training and much more. The site is divided into those providing health services (trainers, suppliers, etc.) and those seeking them (the rest of us). Each member has a blog and can offer different tools for the community.
	Fitness 4 Her Fitness4Her offers a set of specialized resources created by the Fitness4Her team. Resources include a special diet program, an exercise program, a unique way of fitness journaling, and other tools. You must become a member to get access to these tools, but membership is free so you’ve got nothing to lose. If in doubt, check out the excellent blog, which has articles on food, positive affirmations, and much more…especially for women.
	Health & Fitness Solutions Health & Fitness Solutions is geared mostly toward men’s issues but also has some good general advice on fitness and health, such as “6 Way to Make Pushups Harder” and “Top 10 Natural Ways to Reduce Inflammation.” Fresh ideas and information worth a look.
	Green Drink Reviews Green Drink Reviews is primarily about nutrition and provides reviews of protein powders and “green” nutritional drinks. But the site also has plenty of articles and tips on healthy weight loss, healthy foods, energy enhancement, and natural sexual stimulants. Nutrition should always be part of a fitness program, so we’ve included this site as a great resource on nutrition the natural way.

• Have you visited any of these sites?
• Know of any others that belong on the list?
• Leave a comment below and let us know what you think!

Guest post by Rafi Bar-Lev

For many dieters, substantial and sustained weight loss seems like an unreachable and intangible goal that only others are able to achieve — sort of like becoming an astronaut or fighter pilot. The truth is, healthy weight loss is not complicated. In the simplest terms, it comes down to taking in less calories than you expend.

That said, anyone who has struggled to stay on a diet knows the real challenge can be mental rather than physical. It may sound simple to lose one pound of fat per week by eating 500 calories less per day, but it’s often much harder in practice.

Here are 5 mental tricks and motivational tips to help you succeed with your diet:

1. Procrastinate. Who says procrastination must always be bad? With weight loss, it can sometimes be used for good. To use procrastination to your advantage say to yourself, “I have my whole life to eat as much cake as I want, who cares if I skip dessert for one day?” Most people use procrastination to avoid doing what they have to do, but it can also be used to help with what you DON’T have to do.

2. Keep a journal. Maintaining a written journal can be of huge help mentally. By writing down exactly what you’re eating during the day and how it affects your weight loss, you gain control and perspective, which makes dieting that much easier.

3. Set reasonable goals. Everyone likes meeting goals but sometimes fail by setting them too high. By setting reasonable, achievable goals, you receive positive reinforcement and stay motivated to succeed with your diet.

4. Reward yourself. You’ll probably save money by eating less, so reward yourself with something other than food to make yourself feel good and appreciated. Find something that you really enjoy doing but rarely get to do — and enjoy it!

5. Find a role model. Look for someone who’s been successful at reaching and maintaining their desired weight. Having a role model is a great way to find that extra strength and determination to succeed. If someone else can do it, you can too.

In short, dieting isn’t difficult physically but can be extremely challenging mentally. Use these simple tricks to get over those tough mental hurdles and reach your weight loss goals. Good luck!

Rafi Bar-Lev is a fitness lover and founder of Passionate Fitness, a community site for sharing fitness tips. Check out his recent post on compound exercises and other advanced weight loss routines.

Organized into four price ranges, there’s a gift on this list to match every fitness level and budget. Many are simple but effective products chosen for their value and affordability, while others represent the highest levels of technological innovation.

We hope this guide will help readers who may be overwhelmed by the vast array of fitness products available online. Most of these selections are among the top reviewed, best-selling or highest consumer-rated products currently on the market.

Jump to price range:

• Gifts Under $50

• Gifts Under $100

• Gifts Under $500

• Gifts Over $500

• Gifts Under $50

  Wii Fit Plus

  Wii Fit exposed millions of people to the growing world of fitness-related gaming, becoming the third best selling video game in history one year after its release.

  Wii Fit Plus, released on October 4, 2009, is a sequal to the 2007 original that adds new routines, features and enhancements to the existing workouts. It works with previous Wii Fit files so owners of the original game can access their saved profiles and workout history. New users will get everything in the original plus the enhancements.

  • Read Review
  • Buy Now

  Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar

  Since the introduction of Tony Horton’s P90X Extreme Home Fitness System, multifunction workout bars have seen skyrocketing sales. This product is a lower-priced alternative to the P90X Chin-Up/Pull-Up Bar commonly used with P90X.

  After simple assembly the Iron Gym Total Upper Body Bar can be installed in standard doorways in just seconds. Using your body’s own weight as leverage the bar mounts securely without the use of brackets, screws or fasteners.

  • Read Review
  • Buy Now

  The SurfShelf – Treadmill Laptop Holder and Shelf

  Here’s a long overdue innovation that helps alleviate the inevitable boredom that comes with working out on a stationary exercise machine.

  Google and Dell have installed SurfShelfs into all of their fitness facilities. Jason Chen, Editor of Gizmodo.com called it “one of my favorite inventions ever.”

  • Read Review
  • Buy Now

  Nathan Speed 4 Waist Pack with Four 10-Ounce Nutrition Flasks

  Ideal for marathon and distance runners, the Nathan Speed 4 Waist Pack helps maintain proper hydration and nutritional requirements during long runs.

  The belt includes four separate easy access flasks fitted in molded holsters.Each 10 ounce flask can be used for water, energy drinks or nutrition gels. The separate front and rear stash pockets can carry cell phones, mp3 players, keys, wallets or snacks.

  • Read Review
  • Buy Now

  GoFit Ultimate Wobble Board

  Wobble boards, also known as balance boards, are gaining popularity as a mainstream form of fitness training. Benefits include improved balance, coordination, core strength, agility and stability. Wobble board use also encourages communication between the left and right halves of the brain, resulting in an increased sense of body awareness.

  • Read Review
  • Buy Now

  Gold’s Gym Circuit Training System

  With the recent explosion in popularity of doorway pullup bars, rotational pushup devices and ab/core trainers, Gold’s Gym has created a fitness kit that neatly incorporates all three into one package.The 3-in-one set includes a grip-lock doorway gym for pullups and chinups, rotating pushup stands, and ab straps that can be attached the the pullup bar for core training.

  • Read Review
  • Buy Now

  Bodylastics Heavy Duty Exercise Resistance Bands System

  Bodylastics Resistance Bands have been an alternative to expensive home gyms & health clubs since 1998. The average person who joins a health club spends $500 per year for their membership. Bodylastics is an affordable system designed to provide workouts that rival the best and most expensive exercise machines. The compact system is effective for muscle building, body toning, and weight loss.

  • Read Review
  • Buy Now

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• Gifts Under $100

  EA Sports Active

  Developed in collaboration with Bob Greene, known for his Best Life Program and association with Oprah Winfrey, EA Sports Active offers fun, easy to learn exercises and activities to help users stay focused on fitness.

  EA Sports Active gives an unparalleled introduction to virtual exercise for those new to the concept, or a step up for those who’ve become bored with the routines included in the Wii Fit and other third party titles.

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  Joist Mount Chin Up Bar

  As opposed to the wildly popular screw-less doorway chin up bars, this device mounts in a more traditional fashion by anchoring into wooden joists, the horizontal beams that support floors. This creates a “permanent” workout solution that’s sturdy and safe. The bar can be installed in any room but is ideal for an out the way corner in a garage, workroom or basement.

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  Tony Horton’s 10-Minute Trainer

  Best known for his P90X system that has exploded online and through infomercials, Tony Horton has gained a massive following for his popular library of fitness programs. We like P90X but have heard numerous comments about how advanced and DIFFICULT it is for some.

  The 10 Minute Trainer, sold through Beachbody, is a good choice for those looking for a less rigorous program. But don’t expect to breeze through these DVD workouts. They are challenging.

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  Yogamatic Eco-friendly Printed Yoga Mat

  Tired of your dull and uninspiring yoga mat? Here’s a unique fitness accessory that will add some creativity and personality to your workouts.Yogamatic uses global artists young and old to design an array of expressive mats intended to reflect your individual spirit, taste and personal interests.

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  Impact Sports ePulse Strapless Heart Rate Monitor Watch and Calorimeter

  Don’t like uncomfortable and annoying chest strap heart rate monitors? Don’t trust pulse rate monitors built into your exercise machine? The Impact Sports ePulse offers an intriguing alternative.Wrapped snugly around your forearm the ePulse accurately calculates pulse and calories burned using light sensor technology. The advanced microchip easily regulates workout intensity and manages specific fitness and weight loss goals.

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• Gifts Under $500

  Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer

  The Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer converts your outdoor bike into an indoor cycling trainer. It features quiet and smooth magnetic resistance that increases as you gain speed.

  Perfect for the casual cyclist who wants to stay in shape in bad weather or can’t afford a gym membership or expensive exercise bike

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  INSANITY with Sean T. 60-Day Total Body Conditioning Program

  While P90X has redefined what can be accomplished by a home exercise system, Beachbody continues to produce high quality fitness programs, with varied levels of acclaim.

  With the highly anticipated release of Insanity with Shaun T., Beachbody may have a program that rivals P90X in popularity, intensity and results. P90X is a 90 day program (hence the name), while Insanity aims to put you in the best shape of your life in just 60 days. It’s also differs in that it requires no weights, resistance bands or extra equipment.

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  Confidence Foldable Stow Away Exercise Bike

  We’ve rarely seen customer ratings so high for such a reasonably priced piece of equipment. This exercise bike provides a great low-impact, cardiovascular workout and folds away compactly for easy storage. It’s great for apartment dwellers.

  The Confidence Foldable Bike includes an on-board computer that monitors Riding Time, Speed, Distance & Calories. It utilizes Adjustable Magnetic Resistance for an efficient workout. An easy-to-read instruction manual and all the necessary tools for easy home assembly are included.

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  Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor

  This extraordinary device will help you train smarter and more effectively and may change how you think about exercise.

  The Garmin Forerunner 305 is a wrist-mounted GPS receiver, but first and foremost it’s a training tool.The 305 delivers real-time information and alerts on an unprecedented range of data, including multiple heart rate variables, speed, distance traveled, calories burned, elevation, terrain grade and route direction. It’s suitable for runners, cyclists, cross-country skiers, marathon competitors and other outdoor athletes.

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  GoWear fit Lifestyle and Calorie Management System

  The GoWear fit Lifestyle and Calorie Management System is the same device from the same manufacturer as the BodyBugg V3 featured on NBC’s The Biggest Loser. The name change came after 24 Hour Fitness bought the rights to the BodyBugg.

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  Ironman ATIS 1000 AB Training System Inversion Therapy Table

  The Ironman ATIS 1000 represents a step forward in inversion table therapy and is a significant upgrade to their bestselling Gravity 1000 model.

  The ATIS 1000 uses a Smart Gear System, rather than a tether strap to safely lock the table in place in 10 different positions. The Scale Locking System increases ankle security and the table is designed around an extra-wide steel frame with a 300 pound weight capacity.

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  Schwinn Active 20 Series Recumbent Exercise Bike

  The sheer number of exercise bikes now on the market can make choosing between style, manufacturer, quality level and price range a daunting task.

  The Schwinn Active 20 Series Recumbent Bike is not what you’d expect to see in a commercial gym, but the solid design, respected brand and essential features make it a good choice for those on a budget looking for an effective cardio workout.

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  Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells

  The 2009 version of the Bowflex Selecttech Dumbbells features an updated design, greatly increased strength and durability, and new aluminum alloy and polymeric safety tabs.

  As with the previous version these dumbbells pack a rack full of results in a very compact, adjustable lifting system that gives you 15 sets of free weights in one. You can change resistance from 5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5 pound increments with a quick turn of a dial. The wide range of available resistance lets you effectively work arms, chest, shoulders and back at your desired level of difficulty.

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• Gifts Over $500

  Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill

  This trendy treadmill distinguishes itself with a sleek, streamlined, space saving design and incredibly easy setup. It ships folded and fully assembled — just pull it out of the box, unfold and start treading.

  After a workout the 99 lb assembly can be folded to just 59″ x 10″ and stored under a bed or vertically against a wall or in a closet.

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  Diamondback Fitness 900Sr Step-Thru Recumbent Exercise Bike

  This is our first look at Diamondback, a respected manufacturer of institutional and home cardio equipment for over 30 years. So what does the 900Sr Step-Thru Recumbent Exercise Bike have to offer?

  The most distinguishing asset of this bike is the Comfort-Plus extra-wide seat. This is an excellent feature for riders with back problems who can’t tolerate an upright bike position, or for those who just want extra support and comfort. The high-tech, ergonomic mesh seatback includes lumbar support and quick height adjustment.

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  Schwinn Airdyne Evo Comp Exercise Bike

  The original Schwinn Airdyne has been around for over 20 years and remains a top seller among upright exercise bikes. The next generation Airdyne Evolution Comp stays true to the original concept but incorporates a more efficient design.

  The fan wheel is smaller and uses wider contoured blades for increased resistance, while the operation is much quieter and smoother with less vibration. It’s built with newer technology and higher quality components for an increased life span. It’s a leap forward from the original Schwinn Airdyne.

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  Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

  Concept2 rowing machines are used by Olympic athletes and in commercial gyms around the world and have been called the “Rolex of Rowers.”

  The rowing motion on the Model D is impact-free, smooth and easy on the joints. The sliding seat compresses and extends your legs with every stroke to work the entire body, including arms, legs, chest, back and abdominals while providing an excellent cardiovascular workout. A spiral damper lets you can choose between simulated rowing in either a sleek, fast boat or a slow, heavy boat.

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  Sole E95 Elliptical Trainer (2009 Model)

  As the most advanced entry in the Sole E series, the E95 model is a premium, commercial grade, high-end elliptical trainer. It’s our Best Buy Elliptical for 2009.

  The beautifully designed E95 offers a stable, smooth workout with ample top-end resistance. The heavy 30-lb flywheel and long 20-inch stride length increase the stability and efficiency of your workout.

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Our selection criteria went beyond a pretty face and sexy figure. Each of these models is also an accomplished fitness competitor and an elite athlete, trainer or health industry professional.

This is NOT a top 10 list. Be sure to read about all of these beautiful and talented women.

Taryn Bagrosky

Taryn began her fitness career after graduating from CSU with a degree in Health and Exercise Science. She then moved to New York City to work as a fitness specialist for NBC studios. It was here that she discovered her passion for personal training and Pilates. She brought that passion back to Denver, where her family and husband currently reside.

After years of training and dancing, Taryn combined the two to take the stage as a fitness competitor. Following much local success, she took competition to the next level by competing in the USA’s.

Taryn now works as a personal trainer and Power Pilates instructor at Peak Physique Studio in Denver. She is currently training for Ms. Fitness USA 2010.

Career Highlights

• Fitness Specialist for NBC, New York City
• 2009 Ms Fitness World (Top 20)
• 2009 Ms Fitness USA (6th Place)
• 2008 Lonestar Bikini Diva (Champion)
• 2008 Ms Fitness Lonestar (Champion)
• 2008 Ms Fitness World (Top 20)
• 2008 Ms Fitness USA (5th Place)
• 2005 Ms Fitness Colorado (Champion)
• 2005 Northern Colorado Bodybuilding (2nd Runner Up)

Favorite Workouts

Bosu trainers, wobble boards — anything incorporating balance and core work! The stair stepper and treadmill are my favorite for cardio. Between the two, I can do dozens of different intervals to ensure a great leg and cardio workout!

Learn more about Taryn at peakphysiquestudio.com and msfitness.com

Else Lautala

Else was born and raised in Helsinki Finland. In her early years she participated in ballet and by age 7 began to gravitate toward more competitive endeavors, entering into rhythmic gymnastics which occupied much of her childhood.

At age 18 she moved on to Sport Aerobic where she fulfilled her dream of capturing the National Championship,  not just once but a remarkable seven times. She entered her first fitness competition in 2001 and now incorporates competitive events into her “fitness lifestyle.”

“None of us are natural born champions, but with a hard work, years of training and the right nutrition plan, we can reach our dreams and goals.”

Career Highlights

• 2009 Ms Fitness World Championships (2nd Place)
• 2009 Fitness Universe (5th Place)
• 2008 Ms Fitness World Championships (2nd Place)
• 2008 Fitness America (6th Place)
• 2008 Ms Bikini Universe short class (3rd Place)
• 2007 Ms Fitness World Championships (5th Place)
• 2007 Fitness America (Champion)
• 2007 Fitness Universe (4th Place)
• 2007 Ms Bikini Universe medium class (Champion)
• 2006 Fitness America (6th Place)
• 2006 Ms Bikini tall class (3rd Place)
• 2005 Ms Fitness World Championships (Champion)
• 2004 Ms Fitness World Championships (5th Place)
• 2003 Ms Fitness World Championships (Champion)
• 2003 Ms Fitness World Championships (Champion)
• 2003 Fitness model of the year in Finland
• 1997-2002 FISAF & FIG Sport Aerobic 1997-2002 Seven-time National Champion

Favorite Workouts

My favorite body part to work at the gym is shoulders…I especially love a move called the “Travolta.” My favorite lower body workout is the lying hamstring curl. I currently train twice a day, six times a week in preparation for upcoming challenges and competitions.

Learn more about Else at elselautala.com

Linda Okwor

Linda is a certified Personal Fitness Trainer through World Instructors Schools (WITS) and holds a certification in Sports Performance Nutrition through International Sports Science Association (ISSA). She shares her passion for health and fitness through community and international programs such as Rotary, Mobile Health Clinics, Special Olympics, School on Wheels, and the Police Activities League. In an effort to help even more people reach their health and fitness goals, Linda started BWELL FITNESS along with one of her best friends, Toneka Pires who shares a similar passion.

Linda is a professional fitness competitor and representative, spokesperson, and a television program creator. She was a professional NBA basketball cheerleader for several years and made frequent appearances on national and local television and in printed media.

Linda holds memberships with the following prestigious organizations: National MBA Association IDEA Fitness and Health Association World Instructors School (WITS) International Sports Science Association (ISSA) Ms. Fitness USA Ms. Fitness World Ms. Fitness America Ms. Fitness Universe.

Career Highlights

• 2008 Fitness USA (8th Place)
• 2008 Fitness World (16th Place)
• 2006-2009 – Supplementstogo.com (Spokesperson)
• 2001-Current – Innovative Fitness (Spokesperson and Fitness Representative)
• 2007 Universe of Fitness (Champion)
• 2007 Fitness USA (6th Place)
• 2006 Fitness America (9th Place)
• 2006 Triple A Fitness Universe (2nd Place)
• 2006 Triple A Fitness National Legacy (2nd Place)
• 2003 Fitness Universe (5th Place)
• 2003 Fitness South Beach (Champion)
• 2001 ESPN Series (Champion)
• 2001 Fitness America (7th Place)
• 2001 Fitness Great Lakes (Champion)
• 2001 Swimsuit America, Midwest (Champion)

Favorite Workouts

I really enjoy doing functional and sports workout routines which require you to step away from typical gym equipment. Lately I’ve been doing outdoor training like hiking, running the Santa Monica Stairs or the Sand Dune, and power yoga. I mix it up with ply metrics, bosu ball and bands.

A sample workout:: Sprint 50 – 100 feet / 20 jump squats, run backwards/10 close (triceps) push ups, bear crawl 20-50 feet/kick up handstands, walking lung back to beginning point/plank balance for one minute, leap frog 20-50 feet/T stabilizers 10 on each side, Walking side squats 20-50 yards with leg bands/crunch to standing on bosu ball. Rest 30 seconds before each line; rest 2-5 minutes after all the exercises; repeat entire sequence 3 times. It should take 45 min -1 hour to finish workout…and it will surely kick your booty;)!!

Learn more about Linda at modelfitness.com/linda_okwor and Bwellfit.com

Jeanette Ortega

Outside of her continued training regime and competitive background, Jeanette coaches and trains all types of individuals from beginners to the most advanced. She has also crossed into the corporate arena, bringing fitness routines into the workplace.

An athlete herself, she has grown to realize the diverse needs that exist in the fitness arena, so she diversified her own company into segments that would be able to tailor the specific goals of the people who approached her for assistance. Not only does she have a series of fitness boot camp sessions open to all, but she has established a following for brides/grooms and their wedding party to prepare for their “big” day by getting into “wedding” shape.

Jeanette has also created a division for the more advanced, elite individuals that need an extra push during their sport specific or triathlon training. It has created a wonderful phenomenon of attainable goals, continued success and dramatic results and changes in their bodies and performance. It takes the word “defeat” out of their vocabulary and replaces it with “victory.” Jeanette thrives on being a witness to people’s accomplishments; it gives her great joy.

Career Highlights

• Certified Personal Trainer for 16 years
• 2009 Ms. Bikini America Classic (First Place)
• 2008 National Ms. Bikini America (4th Place)
• 2008 Sports Model Hollywood (3rd Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness Los Angeles (3rd Place)
• 2008 Ms. Flex Appeal Las Vegas (5th Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness USA (Top 20)
• 2004 Ms. Fitness Hollywood (3rd Place)
• 2004 Ms. Fitness USA (Top 20)
• Fitness model for select magazines & sports clubs
• Featured Fitness contestant article in Ms. Fitness magazine Summer 2004
• Competition picture featured in Oxygen magazine Spring 2009

Favorite Workouts

Step Mill and/or Elliptical Trainer. The Step Mill Machine is an awesome cardio, leg and butt workout. My workout routine consists of interval training…I start slow and really squeeze all leg muscles as I walk up each step for the first 5 minutes, I then increase speed and really push it hard and fast for 1 minute, slow it down for 1-2 minute(s) and then increase the speed again for 1 minute…repeat for 30 minutes. I then hop onto the Elliptical trainer and select the random workout program and select a good resistance. I then proceed to start and when the random program shows 1 or 2 dots I let go of the handles and do a hard run for the allotted time, then grasp the handles and slow the speed with a higher resistance when 3 or more dots appear. I continue this for 30 minutes.

Learn more about Jeanette at jeanetteortega.com and jeanetteortegasbootcamp.com

Cara Kokenes Samson

Cara is the proud owner of CKS Fitness as well as an IBM Technical Sales Specialist from Morton, Illinois. She attended Miami University (of Ohio) where she completed a B.S. in Exercise Physiology and a B.A. in Psychology. From there, Cara went on to pursue her Master’s of Science degree in Kinesiology specializing in Cardiac Rehabilitation.

Her experience as a national Uneven Parallel Bar and vault champion in collegiate gymnastics at Miami of Ohio coupled with her fitness background led her to claim the Title of Ms Fitness USA 2007 and second runner up Ms Fitness World.

These endeavors propelled Cara into the judging arena of local and national Fitness and Pageant competitions.

Cara is a well known fitness personality and media representative seen on Fox Sports Net, Comcast Sportsnet and ESPN.

Career Highlights

• 2008 Ms Fitness USA representative at the New York City “Fight For Charity” Boxing Tournament
• 2008 Ms Fitness World Competitor, Thessaloniki, Greece
• 2007 Ms Fitness USA 2007 (Champion)
• 2007 Ms Fitness World 2007 (Fourth Place)
• 2006 Ms Universe (Champion)
• 2005 Ms Fitness Legacy (Champion)
• 2000-2004 Fitness America Pageant National Finalist
• Fitness America Pageant Chicago Regional Champion
• Fitness America Pageant ESPN Series Champion
• Varsity Fitness National Champion

Favorite Workouts

My primary workouts are focused around cardiovascular activity. I have several gym memberships and enjoy a variety of equipment at Gold’s Gym, Four Seasons of Bloomington, and Bally Total Fitness.

Precor, Nautilus, Phoenix and Schwinn and Weider equipment are amongst my favorites! I often add circuit training, yoga and high impact aerobics into my training schedule.

Learn more about Cara at cksfitness.com and healthraising.com

Amber Nimedez

Amber is known as “Lil Miss Fit” around Southern California due to her petite and feminine frame that explodes with her passion for fitness. She may be small, but this girl is one tough firecracker.

Originally from the bay area, Amber currently lives in Marina Del Rey, CA and works for L.I.F.E., a live-in boot camp weight loss retreat. She’s also a model, TV host and second year Ms. Fitness competitor who holds the title of Ms. Fitness Hawaiian Islands 2008. Amber hopes to lead by example and prove that you can be an active, natural, healthy, feminine fit woman without being too big and muscular.

Aside from modeling and fitness competitions, Amber is an Accredited Exercise Therapist certified by The Egoscue University specializing in posture alignment. She continues to educate and train clients while motivating them to “live life, live free, live fit.”

Career Highlights

• 2008 Ms. Fitness Hawaiian Islands
• Nationally Ranked Fitness Competitor
• TV Personality for LA Muscle TV
• Nationally Ranked Acrobatic and Gymnast
• L.I.F.E. Coach

Favorite Workouts

An Egoscue Method Pre/Post Menu followed by TRX (Total Body Resistance Exercise) Full Body Routine.

Learn more about Amber at ambernimedez.com and camptechnique.com

Heidi Malano

As a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer, Heidi makes fitness an important part of her every day life both personally and professionally. She believes that fitness has allowed her to enjoy some of life’s greatest pleasures, from snowboarding the great Rocky Mountains to surfing the awesome waters of Baja.

In addition to challenging her clients with creative workouts each day, over the past few years she has enjoyed challenging herself on the fitness stage.

Career Highlights

• 2009 Ms. Fitness USA (3rd Place)
• 2009 Ms. Fitness World (13th Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness USA (4th Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness World (11th Place)
• 2007 Ms. Fitness USA (2nd Place)
• 2007 Ms. Fitness World (8th Place)
• 2007 Figure America/Fitness Hollywood (5th Place)
• 2007 Fitness America/Fitness Hollywood (12th Place)
• 2006 Ms. Fitness Colorado (1st Place)
• 2006 Ms. Physique Colorado (1st Place)

Favorite Workouts

StairMaster by Nautilus: I can just feel my legs being sculpted every step of the way! Plate-loaded Leg Sled by Star Trac: I use this one leg at a time; bringing my knee all the way down to my chest with control before pressing out with power.

Learn more about Heidi at heidifit.com

Alex Navarro

Alex was a very active child, from competing in Gymnastics at age 8 to joining the wrestling team in High School, she always welcomed new challenges. She soon became the gym rat that she is today. After spending countless hours in the gym she became a personal trainer. Alex loves to help others find strength within themselves and to push through personal barriers.

Alex’s passion for competing was rediscovered when entering her first Bikini Diva competition a few years back. Since then she has competed in a wide range of fitness and bikini contests. She welcomes the challenge, the fun of creating a fitness routine and being able to show off all the hard work and dedication. It’s a sport she will continue to have fun with for years to come.

Career Highlights

• 2009 Ms. Fitness Windsor (1st Place)
• 2009 Ms. Fitness Silver and Black (2nd Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness Natural Olympia (3rd Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness Team USA (2nd Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness USA (11th Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness Windsor (1st Place)
• 2007 Bikini Diva Las Vegas (1st Place)
• 2007 Sports Model Las Vegas (3rd Place)
• 2007 Bikini Diva San Francisco (1st Place)
• 2007 Sports Model San Francisco (1st Place)
• 2007 Bikini Diva Oakland (1st Place)

Favorite Workouts

I love working legs. The leg press and hack squat are awesome. I also really enjoy going to the track and running the bleachers. Leg work makes me feel strong and powerful. Know your body, trust yourself and go into every new activity with positive feelings and embrace what can come from that. Don’t let age, gender or past experiences limit what you are capable of accomplishing. The only true way to determine if something is possible is by attempting it.

Learn more about Alex at flexologysf.com and body-mechanix.com

Sharon Polsky

Sharon, formerly a dancer and athlete, has been a personal trainer for 15 years and a national fitness seminar presenter for 10 years. She is now the proud owner of Pole Position Fitness Inc. in Long Beach California; offering Personal Training and Group Fitness Services, as well as developing and offering the only Fitness Industry recognized Pole Fitness Program in the United States.

Sharon is also a certified by AFAA, ACE, Spinning and Pilates Method in fitness and is an examiner and provider for AFAA & ACE for the Step, Primary and Programs of her own. Sharon’s personal practice includes developing weight loss and muscle development programs for her Personal Training clients.

Career Highlights

• Developed the only Pole Fitness program and instructor certification course based on ACSM guidelines
• Developed the only Pole Fitness program specifically designed for Health Clubs
• Champion Fitness America Classic, November 2009
• California Ambassador for Cathy Savage Fitness
• Master Trainer for Helix Fitness Equipment
• Top 10 Finalist and World Qualification for Ms. Fitness 2009
• Spokesmodel for Malibu Strings Bikini Company
• Spokesmodel for Las Vegas Bike Fest 2009

Favorite Workouts

The fitness industry tells us that there are specific workout methods that are the most efficient and effective ways to accomplish your fitness goals, but if it’s something you hate doing then you won’t stick with it. Find a workout program that’s fun and you will stay motivated to accomplish your goals. Some of my favorites include Outdoor Bootcamp, Helix, Hoola Hooping, Pole Fitness, Capoeira, and Ballet Fitness; but whatever it is you choose, remember to keep moving.

Learn more about Sharon at sharonpolsky.com and www.polepositionfitness.com

Nicole Moneer Guerrero

Nicole is a Top 5 nationally and Top 10 internationally ranked PRO fitness competitor and fitness/bikini model, as well as a skilled personal trainer and educator. Her disciplined, results-oriented approach has garnered her industry accolades and has inspired her clients to achieve their own personal fitness goals.

Nicole is an NASM personal trainer and an AFAA group exercise instructor for LifeTime fitness where she advises private clients and leads large group classes.

Showcasing her competition results and fitness tips, Nicole has been featured in such publications as Oxygen Magazine, Almost Famous Magazine, Ms. Fitness Magazine, Iron Man Magazine and Fitness Experts Magazine, as well as on a variety of local Chicago-area television and radio shows.

During the 1994-1995 season, she was a member of the World Champion Chicago Bulls cheerleading squad and was later a part of the Bally Total Fitness Performance Team. She earned the title as Ms. Fitness Illinois in 2004 and 2007, as well as the 2004 and 2007 Fitness America, Midwest Fitness Festival Champion, among others.

Career Highlights

• 2009 Bikini Classic Universe (Champion)
• 2009 Ms. Fitness USA (5th Place)
• 2009 Ms. Bikini Mexico (4th Place)
• 2009 Fitness Mexico International (Guest Performer)
• 2009 Ms. Fitness World (10th place)
• 2009 Ms. Fitness USA’s & World’s on Fox Sports Net
• 2008 Bikini Classic Universe (2nd Place)
• 2008 Fitness Universe (9th Place)
• 2008 Ms. Fitness USA’s (7th place, Top 15 on Fox Sports Net)
• 2007 Ms. Fitness Illinois (1st place and 2004 Ms. Fitness IL)
• 2007 Fitness Universe Pageant (10th Place)
• 2007 Midwest Fitness America (Champion)
• 2006 Fitness America Pageant (13th Place)
• 2006 and 2005 FAME Nationals, PRO status (12th place)
• 2005 Ms. Fitness USA’s, PRO status (9th place, Top 15 on Fox Sports Net)
• 2004 Fitness America Pageant Nationals (Top 20 Finalist)
• 2004 Fitness America, Midwest Fitness Festival (Champion)
• 2003 Fitness Universe (Top 20 Finalist)

Favorite Workouts

Foam/Body Rolling, which is a type of stretching. I use Yamuna balls, Power-Systems Massage Bar and SPRI Foam Rollers. As a competitive athlete my body takes a beating and rolling helps to lengthen my muscles, improve circulation and relieve tightness. I do it with all my clients and believe everyone can benefit by incorporating it into their workouts as a warm up or cool down.

Learn more about Nicole at nicolemoneer.com

• Which of these professional profiles is most impressive?
• Are there any other models you would like to see profiled?
• Have you tried any of the recommended equipment, techniques or workout routines?
• Leave a comment below and let us know what you think!