7
dance fitness dance workouts zumba video games dance-based workouts dance aerobics X-Box capoeira

Aug 09

Dance Your Way To Fitness

Maybe Richard Simmons had it right! Dancing can burn 300- 500 calories per hour, not to mention give you a workout that works every single muscle group. Here are some great dance-inspired workouts that are fueling the Dance Revolution!

Dance Aerobics: Most health and fitness centers now offer a variety of dance aerobics classes, and you can pick from them based on what kind of music has you going! Dance aerobics classes range form Hi-Lo aerobics, Hip-Hop aerobics, Funk and Jazz aerobics. Some of the aerobic routines include equipments to enhance exercise and fitness experiences.

Capoeira: Evolving out of Brazil, Capoeria is a kind of dance/martial arts combination that involves quick and complex moves, using mainly power kicks and leg sweeps with some ground and aerial acrobatics, knee strikes, take-downs, elbow strikes, punches and headbutts. It’s very beautiful to watch and increases focus and balance while giving you a total body workout. Newbies should start slow because the training is very intense and can lead to muscle soreness and joint pain.

Zumba: Zumba workouts feature exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats.  The steps and routines are relatively easy to learn, so participants can jump right in. It is high impact and high calorie-burning, so you can get in your Zumba workout in under 30 minutes. Zumba is great for muscle tone, especially in the legs!

Dance Video Games:. Dance-based video games have been around since the original PlayStation, but they used to require a special mat and featured awkward “dance” steps you wouldn’t dare try at a party. The latest dance video games, however, feature contemporary music and a wide variety of modern moves. Players don’t have to have any previous gaming experience to participate; some games don’t even have handheld controllers, like with the new X-Box Kinnect. You can get a great workout with these videos, but you are having so much fun you won’t even consider it a workout. (We at Lichi are partial to Michael Jackson: The Experience. Can’t get enough of MJ!)


6
sexy lingerie body love your body body shapers flirty frills sexy stockings hourglass figure stilletos bedtime night wear

Aug 05

DON’T HAVE WAIT TILL YOU LOSE WEIGHT: SEXY LINGERIE FOR YOUR RIGHT NOW BODY


Hold the crunches…newsflash! Nobody’s perfect! While dieting and exercise can get you pretty close, feeling confident and sexy about your physique doesn’t have to wait till you’ve dropped those last few pounds. Beauty is 80% confidence, and it’s no wonder that the majority of men name confidence as their #1 turn on. So no more hiding your curvaceous flesh. We’ve got sexy bedtime numbers that revel assets and conceal those trouble spots, plus a few slimifying tricks that will ensure you look your best in any light. With looks like these, he’ll want to keep the lights on, and with your newfound confidence, you won’t mind if he does.


TIP# 1 GO GODDESS

Floor sweeping gowns provide all out glam! Instantly giving the appearance of an hourglass figure, long gowns cinch in the waist, and highlight curves, while sexily concealing any flaws. Soft cottons, and silks will make you feel ever so nude to his touch, while your bare arms, and décolletage reveal just enough to keep him wanting more.

 

*Helpful Tip: Glowing radiant skin begs to be touched, make sure you lather bare shoulders in moisturizing oil like the one shown here from Zinn Beauty Collection.


TIP #2 FLIRTY DETAILS

Sexy details like a hint of lace, or an expertly placed ruffle can do wonders for the body. So go for the gusto and tantalize his eyes with feminine colors, and delicate sheer materials that hide reveal and conceal at the same time. With looks like these, he won’t have time to detect any flaws, so think pretty.

 

*Helpful Tip: Don a pair of sexy stockings with your bedtime fit. Amps up the sexy! 

TIP #3 BODY SHAPING LINGERIE

Contour curves with stealth like precision, creating a sexy hourglass effect that begs to be touched. You’ll instantly look 10lbs slimmer, pushing confidence sky high.

 *Helpful tip: Pair this look with mile high stilettos to look even longer and leaner.

 


TIP #4 K.I.S.S

Keep it simple. Tights, a long-tee, boy shorts, or a classic men’s shirt, all spell c-u-t-i-e. No man’s been able to resist girl-next- door -charm, so if you’re looking to play up your sex appeal, throw on an old tee, pull your hair back in a pony, and feign like you’re watching a Yankees game! That will really get engines racing!

Helpful hint.  Glossy nude lips pair perfectly with your casually sexy look.  Try these flavored versions from Lancome to give him a little extra treat. 


5
hats sunscreen water bottle beach reads Skinceuticals Maine The Meory Keeper's Daugter J Lo Kim Kardashian bispenol kim Edward J.Courtney Sullivan SPF Kate Spade LeSportsac beach bags

Jul 12

What’s In Your Summer Beach Bag?

With the mercury going through the roof, heading to the beach sounds like a much needed treat and to make it perfect we recommend you toss these into your summer beach bag:

1.Beach totes are a must unless you want sand sneaking into the crevices of your bag and following you home. We recommend staying away from the straw ones for the same reason but pick either a chic or sporty one in vibrant summer shades, preferably with a stain barrier to keep water out. Kate Spade and LeSportsac have some great options to choose from.

2.Hats make you look chic and also shield your face from the glare of UV rays, adding an extra layer of protecting. Those floppy 70s sun hats are a rage this summer after celebrities like J Lo and Kim Kardashian have been spotted lounging in them.  You can get one that fits your budget from Forever 21 to J.Crew. To keep it trendy, pick one with a retro vibe.

3.Water bottles: Cold water is your go-to drink on the beach, since sodas and beers can make you pack on the pounds. Look for insulated glass ones free of bispenol A, instead of aluminum and glass ones that can potentially cause a number of hazards. Our picks include Takeyausa and Lifefactory. The insulated casing keeps water chilled and grips keep them in place.

4.You can’t possibly step into the beach without wearing sunscreen. It’s not enough to wear sunscreen but do it right: Apply a shot glass amount of broadspectrum sunscreen, at least 30 SPF, to your entire body 20 minutes prior to sun exposure. And carry it in your bag since you need to reapply every two hours and after a dip in the water. Our pick is the Skinceuticals paraben-free ultra-light mattifying physical defense in SPF 50.

5.Your beach outing can never be quite complete without flipping a bunch of magazines or a page-turner that keeps you hooked and hopefully ends before the sun goes down. For ideal beach reads turn to J.Courtney Sullivan’s Maine set on the beach or a tear-jerker like Kim Edward’s- The Memory Keeper’s Daughter


7
lichi lichisuperfruit lichi team NYSC Lichi products weight-loss detox probiotics dietary supplement healthy lifestyle

Jun 23

 

Guess who was spritzing up the work-out scene at the New York Sports Club in Chelsea last week….It was us, the Lichi Team!!! We were there to paint the gym red, handing out samples of our stellar weight management products,Lichi Superfruit Herbal Dietary Supplement, Lichi Super Fruit Total detox and Lichi Super Fruit Lactospore Probiotic. Thanks to us,  many of the NYSC members left the gym feeling a little lighter, even though they were laden with an arm-load of fat burning, energy and metabolism boosting goodies. Wish you were there? Just click over to www.lichisuperfruit.com and get a personal 360 overview on the healthy & natural Lichi lifestyle. We dare you to take our 30 Day challenge! May even be able to call in a favor at NYSC on a free week pass! LOL. Well hope you enjoy, and stay tuned because we’re headed to a gym near you soon. 


1
fragrance, fathers day gifts dad holiday guide grill mad men vans sneakers ralph lauren

Jun 17
Ditch the ties and get that special man in your life something fabulous for Father’s Day this year. We found the coolest gifts under $50 for your guy, from nerdy tech tools to suave accessories. Show him you care this Father’s Day with these gifts.   1.    Bodum Fykrat Grill, $49.95 If your home doesn’t have room for fancy outdoor grilling equipment (or you simply can’t afford it), find the next best thing: a compact portable grill! With a decently-sized grill grate, your guy can prepare all kinds of feasts this summer. 2.    Take Charge Organizer, $14 If your guy is a tech addict, chances are he has cords coming out of every pocket. Save him the hassle of trying to find the right charger with this Take Charge Organizer. 3.    Vans Authentic Sneaker, $45 Whether he is running errands or hanging out with the guys, these classic Vans Authentic Sneakers will help him put his best foot forward. 4.    Ralph Lauren Big Pony Collection Coffret, $45 Don’t just give him one bottle of cologne when you can give him four thanks to Ralph Lauren’s Big Pony Collection Coffret. Sporty, Seductive, Adventurous, and Stylish, there is a scent for whatever mood your man is in. 5.    Mad Men Season Four, $27.49 Gorgeous women, endless bottles of booze, and some of the slickest hair around. Mad Men Season Four delivers all the goods and more.  Just be warned, once your guy starts watching the series, he won’t ever stop.  

Ditch the ties and get that special man in your life something fabulous for Father’s Day this year. We found the coolest gifts under $50 for your guy, from nerdy tech tools to suave accessories. Show him you care this Father’s Day with these gifts.

 

1.    Bodum Fykrat Grill, $49.95

If your home doesn’t have room for fancy outdoor grilling equipment (or you simply can’t afford it), find the next best thing: a compact portable grill! With a decently-sized grill grate, your guy can prepare all kinds of feasts this summer.

2.    Take Charge Organizer, $14

If your guy is a tech addict, chances are he has cords coming out of every pocket. Save him the hassle of trying to find the right charger with this Take Charge Organizer.

3.    Vans Authentic Sneaker, $45

Whether he is running errands or hanging out with the guys, these classic Vans Authentic Sneakers will help him put his best foot forward.

4.    Ralph Lauren Big Pony Collection Coffret, $45

Don’t just give him one bottle of cologne when you can give him four thanks to Ralph Lauren’s Big Pony Collection Coffret. Sporty, Seductive, Adventurous, and Stylish, there is a scent for whatever mood your man is in.

5.    Mad Men Season Four, $27.49

Gorgeous women, endless bottles of booze, and some of the slickest hair around. Mad Men Season Four delivers all the goods and more.  Just be warned, once your guy starts watching the series, he won’t ever stop.

 


5
sex, politics, events, healing tips scandals weiner anthony current relationships marriage

Jun 14
Hilary, and Bill, Elizabeth and John, Silda and Elliot, Maria and Arnold, and now Huma and Anthony, the latest political husband and wife to find themselves in the midst of a very public sex scandal. Rumors of sex scandals amongst politicians have forever existed, but in the past such indiscretions were only whispered amongst those in the congressional know. These latest acts of adulterous coup d’états, however, are occurring brazenly in blind sight, perhaps signaling a new era of acceptance, and or liberality? Whatever the implications, the question that begs to be asked, is what is considered a healthy sexual relationship. While politicians certainly have the limelight to blame for the airing of their dirty laundry, one can rightly assume, that men in other positions, may be tempted to browse the limitless bounds of cyberspace for some extracurricular sexual stimulation as well, and if they do, would we as normal wives and girl friends, stand by our men? Silda Spitzer, wife of Elliot Spitzer, did just that, actually penning a book blaming herself for the former Governor’s infidelity, citing her inability to provide adequate sex. In an article on Sex and Relationships by WebMD, experts report that Men will stray if there needs are not met. The article goes on to say that issues with performance, the need for appreciation, and the very thought of sex plague men, much more than woman, leaving them that much more vulnerable to the temptations of another more reassuring, woman. To avoid this, WebMD says communications key. Being in tune with your partner, understanding when he is distracted, and confronting issues immediately will leave less room for him to wander.  In addition, establishing boundaries is also vital. A lot of times, men do not know they are out of bounds unless its clearly stated in black and white. Surfing the Internet and chatting with a stranger, may be senseless of course, but not clearly adulterous, and unless you are comfortable enough to address this type of behavior with your man before its revealed and feelings are hurt, he may find his self veering into dangerous territory, and you may find yourself in an unfixable situation. To avoid a sex scandal at home, establish a healthy dialogue about sex with your partner, to ensure yours and his needs are met. Not only is this vital to your relationship, but good sex has also been proven to boost health. Sex is a stress reliever, calorie burner, and couples with a healthy happy sex life, live happier and longer.  If your mate needs healing, be sure you’re the one who cures him. Check out more sexual health tips on WebMD, and iVillage. Sources: http://www.ivillage.com/health-benefits-sex-0/4-b-109327http://www.ivillage.com/health-benefits-sex-0/4-b-109327

Hilary, and Bill, Elizabeth and John, Silda and Elliot, Maria and Arnold, and now Huma and Anthony, the latest political husband and wife to find themselves in the midst of a very public sex scandal. Rumors of sex scandals amongst politicians have forever existed, but in the past such indiscretions were only whispered amongst those in the congressional know. These latest acts of adulterous coup d’états, however, are occurring brazenly in blind sight, perhaps signaling a new era of acceptance, and or liberality? Whatever the implications, the question that begs to be asked, is what is considered a healthy sexual relationship. While politicians certainly have the limelight to blame for the airing of their dirty laundry, one can rightly assume, that men in other positions, may be tempted to browse the limitless bounds of cyberspace for some extracurricular sexual stimulation as well, and if they do, would we as normal wives and girl friends, stand by our men?

Silda Spitzer, wife of Elliot Spitzer, did just that, actually penning a book blaming herself for the former Governor’s infidelity, citing her inability to provide adequate sex.

In an article on Sex and Relationships by WebMD, experts report that Men will stray if there needs are not met. The article goes on to say that issues with performance, the need for appreciation, and the very thought of sex plague men, much more than woman, leaving them that much more vulnerable to the temptations of another more reassuring, woman.

To avoid this, WebMD says communications key. Being in tune with your partner, understanding when he is distracted, and confronting issues immediately will leave less room for him to wander.  In addition, establishing boundaries is also vital. A lot of times, men do not know they are out of bounds unless its clearly stated in black and white. Surfing the Internet and chatting with a stranger, may be senseless of course, but not clearly adulterous, and unless you are comfortable enough to address this type of behavior with your man before its revealed and feelings are hurt, he may find his self veering into dangerous territory, and you may find yourself in an unfixable situation.

To avoid a sex scandal at home, establish a healthy dialogue about sex with your partner, to ensure yours and his needs are met. Not only is this vital to your relationship, but good sex has also been proven to boost health. Sex is a stress reliever, calorie burner, and couples with a healthy happy sex life, live happier and longer.

 If your mate needs healing, be sure you’re the one who cures him.

Check out more sexual health tips on WebMD, and iVillage.

Sources:

http://www.ivillage.com/health-benefits-sex-0/4-b-109327

http://www.ivillage.com/health-benefits-sex-0/4-b-109327


3
celebrity break ups rihanna reese witherspoon jennifer aniston britney spears sandra bullock makeovers bounce back splits

Jun 14

Post Break-Up Celebrity Makeovers

Whoever said breaking up is hard is definitely not talking about our break-up role models Rihanna, Jennifer Aniston or Resse Witherspoon, who bounced back stronger than ever after their heart breaks. While for some celebs relationship splits can be a huge set-back, some others reclaimed their super-celebrity status with mind-blowing makeovers:

Britney Spears went from being fat to bald in the course of her marriage and divorce to K-Fed. But the girl has got her act together now by shedding her addictions, regaining her former ‘I’m a Slave for you’ figure and a new super-sexy hairdo.  She made a stunning comeback with her new album Femme Fatale and looks every bit like the diva that she is in the March 2011 issue of Vogue magazine.

Then there’s Resse Witherspoon, who transformed herself from the girl next door to a glam goddess, after being famously cheated on by Ryan Phillipe. To top it up, she also started dating the younger and cuter Jake Gyllenhaal, have an amazing career, raise two kids, and managed to look fabulous at all times.

Our other big break-up winner is Jennifer Aniston, who has gone through the most publicly talked about divorce till date, and walked out of it looking hotter than ever and dated a string of super hot guys. The shorter-hair look Jen sported this year and her Bridget Bardot style photo shoot for Allure magazine has left the international media buzzing.

More recently America’s sweetheart Sandra Bullock has done an amazing job of bouncing back after her split from Jesse James, and gone on to solidify her position as an iconic actress and a single mom. She cut down on her public appearances but made up for the hide-and-seek with her classically captivating red carpet looks for the year.

Finally, Rihanna tops our list of break-up bounce backs, having survived not only a cheating but abusive Chris Brown.  She came back with a bang with her album Loud, a public declaration of getting over the ex, and a new layered bright red hair-do.

These celebrities make us believe that life not only goes on but can get better after a break-up… So follow their cue and instead of crying your eyes out or going on a binge, hit the gym, go to a salon and live up the single life.

Sources:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1306159/How-sorbet-men-given-Kate-Winslet-Cheryl-Cole-Charlotte-Church-new-lease-life.html

http://www.closeronline.co.uk/ShowbizNews/LatestNews/celebrities-who-look-better-after-break-up-makeover.aspx

http://www.examiner.com/celebrity-fitness-and-health-in-national/was-britney-spears-the-victim-of-overly-aggressive-photoshopping

http://www.hollywoodlife.com/2010/03/24/sandra-bullock-break-up-role-models/


1
sun safety sunscreen iphone sun app UV protection skin cancer anti-oxidants water proof sunscreen bikini body

May 26
Stay Sun Safe This Summer Summer has officially arrived, and with the sun shining bright, heading to the beach is pretty irresistible.  While lounging all day in the sun, may make for a good tan, sunrays aren’t skin’s BFF. With harmful repercussions like wrinkles, spots, burns, accelerated ageing and even skin cancer, being UV protected during sun exposure, will ensure you stay safe, while getting your golden goddess on. So before you laze around in the skin, check out Iphone’s Sun Safe application, which lets you know your current UV ray exposure, reminds you when its time to apply the sunscreen, and even what times of the day is best to basket in the safest sun rays. While we all know to protect out skin, one of the most neglected places, yet most exposed areas is our scalp. Skin Cancer often arises in the scalp, so ensure your SPF is working here as well with something like the non-greasy lightweight hair sun protector from Keratese Soleil Huile Celeste. And for your body, toss out your trusty, heavy, white residue leaving lotion, instead new products like bareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen offer weightless protection so your skin can breathe. Plus its 100% natural, and comes with an easy on-the-go application, for a no hands tan. Now that you’re covered while you’re lounging…what about once you venture out into the deep end. The truth about waterproof sunscreen is that you’ve got 40 minutes in the water or 80 minutes max for more resistant versions, so you have to catch those waves, and come back to shore for additional sun screen application. MDSolar Science’s Mineral Screen Gel SPF 30+ is one of the longer lasting water-proof sunscreens, and comes in tinted as well to lend a healthy natural glow.  Another way to keep skin sun healthy is through diet. Forget about eating dehydrating chips, and consuming alcohol at the beach, or by the pool. Don’t cheat, instead maintain your bikini body with foods rich in anti-oxidants, that act as a second line of defense to provide protection against free radicals unleashed by sunrays. Healthy sun safe foods: • Salmon, which has omega 3 fatty acids to fight inflammation caused by the sun.  • Tomatoes have huge amounts of lycopene to ward off harmful effects of the sun • Dark leafy greens like broccoli and spinach that have plenty of anti-oxidants to protect the skin against damage and cancer • Dark chocolates have anti-oxidants in its cocoa flavonoids to safeguard against photo damage. Now you have one more excuse to crave them!! • Green tea has the most powerful polyphenols to battle UV rays Fortified with sun protection inside out, bask in the sun and sand fearlessly this summer… Sources: Glamour Magazine, “Five Things to Know About SPF”, May 2011 issue http://www.suite101.com/content/sunscreen-in-your-food-a55225  

Stay Sun Safe This Summer

Summer has officially arrived, and with the sun shining bright, heading to the beach is pretty irresistible.  While lounging all day in the sun, may make for a good tan, sunrays aren’t skin’s BFF. With harmful repercussions like wrinkles, spots, burns, accelerated ageing and even skin cancer, being UV protected during sun exposure, will ensure you stay safe, while getting your golden goddess on.

So before you laze around in the skin, check out Iphone’s Sun Safe application, which lets you know your current UV ray exposure, reminds you when its time to apply the sunscreen, and even what times of the day is best to basket in the safest sun rays.

While we all know to protect out skin, one of the most neglected places, yet most exposed areas is our scalp. Skin Cancer often arises in the scalp, so ensure your SPF is working here as well with something like the non-greasy lightweight hair sun protector from Keratese Soleil Huile Celeste.

And for your body, toss out your trusty, heavy, white residue leaving lotion, instead new products like bareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen offer weightless protection so your skin can breathe. Plus its 100% natural, and comes with an easy on-the-go application, for a no hands tan.

Now that you’re covered while you’re lounging…what about once you venture out into the deep end. The truth about waterproof sunscreen is that you’ve got 40 minutes in the water or 80 minutes max for more resistant versions, so you have to catch those waves, and come back to shore for additional sun screen application. MDSolar Science’s Mineral Screen Gel SPF 30+ is one of the longer lasting water-proof sunscreens, and comes in tinted as well to lend a healthy natural glow. 

Another way to keep skin sun healthy is through diet. Forget about eating dehydrating chips, and consuming alcohol at the beach, or by the pool. Don’t cheat, instead maintain your bikini body with foods rich in anti-oxidants, that act as a second line of defense to provide protection against free radicals unleashed by sunrays. Healthy sun safe foods:

• Salmon, which has omega 3 fatty acids to fight inflammation caused by the sun. 

• Tomatoes have huge amounts of lycopene to ward off harmful effects of the sun

• Dark leafy greens like broccoli and spinach that have plenty of anti-oxidants to protect the skin against damage and cancer

• Dark chocolates have anti-oxidants in its cocoa flavonoids to safeguard against photo damage. Now you have one more excuse to crave them!!

• Green tea has the most powerful polyphenols to battle UV rays

Fortified with sun protection inside out, bask in the sun and sand fearlessly this summer…

Sources:

Glamour Magazine, “Five Things to Know About SPF”, May 2011 issue

http://www.suite101.com/content/sunscreen-in-your-food-a55225

 


22
workoutgear multitasking shoes garmin Shapeups Reebok Easytone water bottles workout accesories workout underwear lululemon flipflops

May 24
Smart Workout Gear Working out just got a little smarter thanks to technologically advanced shoes, sports bras, and even water bottles, that are doing their part to make those days spent at the gym really pay off. While losing weight will never be effortless, these intelligent fitness gadgets and accessories claim to help you get in shape quicker, or at the very least help you track your results better. To find out how you can tone up even when you’re not at the gym, (and no we don’t mean walking around with strap on ankle, and hand weights) check out the latest workout accessories that will smarten up your workout! 1. Multi tasking shoes transform your ordinary strides into a work out routine. Slip these on to get better-toned legs and hips with every step you take without the bother of a work out: ·      Reebok EasyTone walking shoes use balance pods that engage your muscles at every step and make the shoes ultra comfy. These are ideal for walking, running, working, or just lazing around. Believe it or not they do promise to give your butt a workout, not just your legs. Reebok commissioned a study in Delaware, which showed 28% more activity for wearers in their butt muscles as compared to regular shoes. A real plus is that they look like regular walking shoes (no orthopedic look!!) and come in regular and vibrant metallic shades. ·      Skechers Shapeups are extremely comfortable and work your core leg muscles by throwing you slightly off kilter. People claim to feel a real difference after a 20-minute walk in these shoes. However, Skechers does not recommend using these shoes for running and advise you to be careful while going up or down the stairs for the first couple of times. A big plus is the variety of styles you can choose from. ·      FitFlop by Victoria’s Secret tones your legs and recreates the gait of barefoot walking. The sexy sequined look makes it a must-have pair of flip-flops this summer. 2. GPS Watch: Garmin’s Forerunner 405CX is the latest gizmo to watch out for. This GPS enabled sleek sports watch computes calories based on heart rate, pace and distance and then transfers the data to your PC. So you have all the necessary info to check if you are getting better at your workouts. Taking about smart gear, this one definitely takes the cake! 3. Workout bottles: A clean, spill free and easy to carry water bottle is a must, no matter what your work out routine entails.  Here are some of our top picks that get it right: ·      Nalgene Multidrink bottle lets you sip with the straw while running or gulp from the spout between sets, without any spills. ·      Polarbottle Insulated Sport bottle has a great grip and keeps water cool even in the beach, making it ideal for outdoor summer workouts. 4. Workout bras and underwear: Finding the right bra for your size and activity can be quite as hard as finding the percent pair of jeans. And finding comfy underwear that won’t ride up or show panty lines is another challenging task. Here are a few that can work great for your size and shape: ·      Saucony Motion Sensor Bra with Performance Shape Technology™ has stretchable cups, breathable fabric and is great for medium to curvy women with great criss-cross support for high impact activities.  ·      Lululemon Smoothmove GirlShorts has an awesome fabric with a barely there feel. These are great for those with a round tush or wanting options other than thongs.  Sources The Redbook Magazine: http://www.redbookmag.com/health-wellness/advice/hottest-health-trends http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wii_Fit www.victoriassecret.com/shoes/fitflop  http://www.skechers.com/info/fitness  http://www.reebok.com/US/search?t=easytone  https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=31859&ra=true  http://health.yahoo.net/rodale/PVN/breakthrough-bottles  http://www.lululemon.com/  http://www.saucony.com/store/SiteController/saucony/productdetails?productId=4-100170

Smart Workout Gear

Working out just got a little smarter thanks to technologically advanced shoes, sports bras, and even water bottles, that are doing their part to make those days spent at the gym really pay off. While losing weight will never be effortless, these intelligent fitness gadgets and accessories claim to help you get in shape quicker, or at the very least help you track your results better. To find out how you can tone up even when you’re not at the gym, (and no we don’t mean walking around with strap on ankle, and hand weights) check out the latest workout accessories that will smarten up your workout!

1. Multi tasking shoes transform your ordinary strides into a work out routine. Slip these on to get better-toned legs and hips with every step you take without the bother of a work out:

·      Reebok EasyTone walking shoes use balance pods that engage your muscles at every step and make the shoes ultra comfy. These are ideal for walking, running, working, or just lazing around. Believe it or not they do promise to give your butt a workout, not just your legs. Reebok commissioned a study in Delaware, which showed 28% more activity for wearers in their butt muscles as compared to regular shoes. A real plus is that they look like regular walking shoes (no orthopedic look!!) and come in regular and vibrant metallic shades.

·      Skechers Shapeups are extremely comfortable and work your core leg muscles by throwing you slightly off kilter. People claim to feel a real difference after a 20-minute walk in these shoes. However, Skechers does not recommend using these shoes for running and advise you to be careful while going up or down the stairs for the first couple of times. A big plus is the variety of styles you can choose from.

·      FitFlop by Victoria’s Secret tones your legs and recreates the gait of barefoot walking. The sexy sequined look makes it a must-have pair of flip-flops this summer.

2. GPS Watch: Garmin’s Forerunner 405CX is the latest gizmo to watch out for. This GPS enabled sleek sports watch computes calories based on heart rate, pace and distance and then transfers the data to your PC. So you have all the necessary info to check if you are getting better at your workouts. Taking about smart gear, this one definitely takes the cake!

3. Workout bottles: A clean, spill free and easy to carry water bottle is a must, no matter what your work out routine entails.  Here are some of our top picks that get it right:

·      Nalgene Multidrink bottle lets you sip with the straw while running or gulp from the spout between sets, without any spills.

·      Polarbottle Insulated Sport bottle has a great grip and keeps water cool even in the beach, making it ideal for outdoor summer workouts.

4. Workout bras and underwear: Finding the right bra for your size and activity can be quite as hard as finding the percent pair of jeans. And finding comfy underwear that won’t ride up or show panty lines is another challenging task. Here are a few that can work great for your size and shape:

·      Saucony Motion Sensor Bra with Performance Shape Technology™ has stretchable cups, breathable fabric and is great for medium to curvy women with great criss-cross support for high impact activities.

 ·      Lululemon Smoothmove GirlShorts has an awesome fabric with a barely there feel. These are great for those with a round tush or wanting options other than thongs.

 Sources

The Redbook Magazine: http://www.redbookmag.com/health-wellness/advice/hottest-health-trends

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wii_Fit

www.victoriassecret.com/shoes/fitflop

 http://www.skechers.com/info/fitness

 http://www.reebok.com/US/search?t=easytone

 https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=31859&ra=true

 http://health.yahoo.net/rodale/PVN/breakthrough-bottles

 http://www.lululemon.com/

 http://www.saucony.com/store/SiteController/saucony/productdetails?productId=4-100170


7
organic, gluten free lifestyle health diet whole foods amys wellness

May 24
Majority of people are sensitive to a protein called gluten found in most baked goods like cakes and cookies, crackers, beer, pasta, pizza, cereals and pretzels. This leads to gluten intolerance or insensitivity and there is mounting concern about leading a gluten free (Gfree) life as this condition plagues more than 2 million people in the US today. So what if you find yourself sensitive to this scary protein that is present in all your favorite sources of carbs?  You can opt for food made from sources traditionally known to be free of gluten, like starch, beans, nuts and grains. But you can never be too sure of the existence of gluten in your food because most sauces, ice creams, gravies, luncheon meats and even ketchup contain gluten as a thickening agent. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious and clearly labeled gluten free food options available today in the specialty sections at supermarkets.  So you do not have to give up your craving for an English muffin, breakfast cereals, comfort food like pasta or an occasional beer.  But watch out because gluten free food can often be more fattening than regular options because they have more calories, less fibers and are packed with refined carbs. It is very important to watch labels carefully for nutritional information including calories and fiber count while buying gluten free food.  Here are our favorite healthy GFree picks:   1.     Whole Food Market’s  entire range of gluten free products including bread, muffins, cookies, granola, etc. 2.       3.     Erehwon  Organic Gluten free cereal   4.     LARABAR Gluten free energy bars   5.     Bionaturae Gluten free Pasta   6.     Amy’s Organic- Gluten free Frozen Food options like lasagna, rice bowls, pizza, and more.    The GFree trend has received a lot of momentum from celebrities who are promoting awareness about this diet option. Recently, Elizabeth Hasselback had a GFree day on her show called “The View”.  Also there are a number of celebrity chefs dishing up delectable gluten free gourmet food and fast food joints that cater to the GFree trend. For a list of GFree eating options around the country look at the Lichi Super Fruit fan page.

Majority of people are sensitive to a protein called gluten found in most baked goods like cakes and cookies, crackers, beer, pasta, pizza, cereals and pretzels. This leads to gluten intolerance or insensitivity and there is mounting concern about leading a gluten free (Gfree) life as this condition plagues more than 2 million people in the US today.

So what if you find yourself sensitive to this scary protein that is present in all your favorite sources of carbs?  You can opt for food made from sources traditionally known to be free of gluten, like starch, beans, nuts and grains. But you can never be too sure of the existence of gluten in your food because most sauces, ice creams, gravies, luncheon meats and even ketchup contain gluten as a thickening agent. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious and clearly labeled gluten free food options available today in the specialty sections at supermarkets.  So you do not have to give up your craving for an English muffin, breakfast cereals, comfort food like pasta or an occasional beer.  But watch out because gluten free food can often be more fattening than regular options because they have more calories, less fibers and are packed with refined carbs. It is very important to watch labels carefully for nutritional information including calories and fiber count while buying gluten free food.  Here are our favorite healthy GFree picks:

 

1.     Whole Food Market’s  entire range of gluten free products including bread, muffins, cookies, granola, etc.

2.      

3.     Erehwon  Organic Gluten free cereal

 

4.     LARABAR Gluten free energy bars

 

5.     Bionaturae Gluten free Pasta

 

6.     Amy’s Organic- Gluten free Frozen Food options like lasagna, rice bowls, pizza, and more.

 

 The GFree trend has received a lot of momentum from celebrities who are promoting awareness about this diet option. Recently, Elizabeth Hasselback had a GFree day on her show called “The View”.  Also there are a number of celebrity chefs dishing up delectable gluten free gourmet food and fast food joints that cater to the GFree trend. For a list of GFree eating options around the country look at the Lichi Super Fruit fan page.