Monday, December 23, 2013

Healthy Christmas Treats

Christmas is a wonderful time of year to enjoy spending time with loved ones, eating delicious foods and giving gifts. If you are like me then you probably enjoy eating delicious baked goods and other Christmas treats. I am going to talk about how you can still eat those delicious Christmas treats and avoid the holiday weight gain. In case you didn't know the average

Holiday Weight Gain is 5-7 pounds for people who are overweight. However if you are in great shape that number drops to 1 pound.

So how can you eat those tasty Christmas treats and avoid the weight gain?

The #1 way to minimize fat-storage over the holidays
is to cut down on your unhealthy carb intake.

I know that during the holidays we like to drink beer, eat breads, cookies, and other Christmas treats that are loaded with carbs. Here is a healthy trick that we can use to enjoy those unhealthy Christmas treats

You see when your body takes in carbs, it then stores them inside your muscles and liver as glycogen. This is what your body uses as its primary source of fuel.

But you can get around this by depleting those stores of glycogen. The way that you can do this is by either cutting out bad carbs during the holidays or a much simpler way listed below.

How can you burn from your fat cells instead?

Make sure that you plan ahead for your workout and that you use your largest muscle groups. You can do a workout the night before your big feast, the morning of, or just before you eat the big holiday feast.

Here is how you can do this:


1) Target larger body parts like chest, back, and legs this has been proven with research to deplete glycogen stores faster

2) A high volume of reps in such a short amount of time stresses
the muscles and stimulates more lactic acid. which is a precursor
to releasing more growth hormone…

3) By working the larger muscle groups you will deplete glycogen very fast.

here is a great body weight workout you can do anywhere.

8 rounds
8 reps per round at as high an intensity level as you can do with good form

Push Up or Push Up variation (think clap or close grip)
Pull Up    or Pull Up variation    (chin up, or wide grip)
Squat Jump  or Squat Variation (squat,deep squat, or drop squat)

Veggie Christmas Treat, With Healthy Veggie Dip:

  • 1 and 1/2 cups plain greek yogurt

  • 3/4 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  1. In a large bowl combine all of the ingredients together and mix well.
  2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours but preferable overnight for the best results.
  3. Serve with fresh veggies or any other dippers that you’d like.

Healthy Protechino Treat:

Yes, I made that word up, at least I think I did. It is a delicious Christmas Treat that you can use anytime of the year.1 scoop of your favorite chocolate protein powder
  • 1 cup of coffee
  • sweeten with stevia to to your liking (you can also use almond milk)
  • You can also use a drop of peppermint oil in this for an extra holiday touch


Dedicated to helping you become your best self,

Ben Myslenski

Monday, December 16, 2013

Achieve Your New Years Resolutions Today (with bonus workout)

Achieve Your New Years Goals Today

What are you going to do today that will help you to achieve your new years goals?  What Causes you to fail? What can you do about it? Do you like feeling flabby and out of shape? Do you want to have high blood pressure and take medication? Do you want to be put on cholesterol medication? Do you want to be at an increased risk of diabetes? Are you ready to die early?

Most people seek out the path of least resistance when in comes to deciding to lose weight. We all have done this. We seek out the latest fad diet, or we choose quick fixes like surgery, and diet pills. We think if I can just lose ten pounds in ten days it will kick start a new habit. My favorite is when people including myself say I will start next week. We say this is my last bag of candy or this is my last bowl of ice cream but we say it over and over every week and 30 pounds later we weigh more than we have ever weighed. We feel like crap and we have no one to blame but ourselves. Start today and make a decision to become the best that you can be. 

Why we fail?

We usually fail because we make excuses
-I tried for a few days but it's hard
-I had one bad day and then I gave up
-I became discouraged because I was not seeing results fast enough
-My new years goals were too lofty 
-I'll try again next year
-I would have done better if my husband or wife were more supportive
-I would have done it if I didn't have kids
-I was sick and gained some weight back
-I... insert lame excuse here!!!!

"A year from now you will wish you had started TODAY" Karen Lamb

How many days will you wait to make a choice to be in the best shape of your life? 
Will you wait until the next new year to stop procrastinating? 
Will you wait several months to do it?

Will you continually say this every day for the rest of your life until you are dead?

How much more weight would you have lost if you had made up your mind to put in the hard work that you needed to do. If you would have made the decision to change your life last year when you made your new years goals to lose 10 pounds you would already be there. The choices you make today impact everything that you do from here on out. I know that you didn't decide to be fat or out of shape. You started down a wrong path a while ago but today is the day you can CHANGE. I love Star Wars and that is why I put the next quote in here. I hope it inspires you to make the change that you need to make in your life. Decide to make this "New Years Goals" a command instead of another go at it. Choose to start down a new path, don't let fear, or excuses hold you back from achieving your destiny. I know it sounds cheesy but it is the truth.

"If once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny, consume you it will" Yoda

Here is an awesome starting workout that you can do anywhere. 

I have included 3 different exercises for each one the first is the beginner the second is intermediate and the third is advanced. Choose one exercise in each number and do it for 30 seconds as many times as you can with good form. Rest for 15 seconds and start the next exercise.
Tempo 30-15 4 rounds with minimal rest and as many reps with good form.

1. Chest Press with weights, Pushup, Clap Pushup
2. Split Squat, Prisoner Lunge, Jummping Lunges (switch legs on each jump)
3. Modified Jumping Jack, Jumping Jacks, Seal Jacks
4. Knee Raises, Power knee (speed), Knee and push kick 
5. Walk hands up to chest, Burpee, Burpee with pushup

The problem is that we don't change the habits that led us to where we are now. Make a choice to start today not tomorrow or on the New Year because if you put it off you will never start.

Dedicated to helping you become your best self,

Ben Myslenksi




Monday, December 9, 2013

10 Secrets To Help You Improve Your Life

Hello everyone,

I have been reading a lot of books lately and following some blogs by successful people. One of the blogs that I follow is called Early to Rise. It is an incredible blog by Craig Ballantyne who is a writer for Men's Health and Men's Fitness and several other magazines. In one of his updates he talks about keeping a Gratitude Journal. I thought about this for a long time and thought about all the things that I am grateful for and decided to put a list of things I do that are helping me to improve myself every day. 

What are the daily secrets that help you improve your life, comment and let me know.


1. Read a book that will improve some aspect of your life for an hour everyday.

When I first started this I thought it was silly but the more I do the more knowledge I am obtaining on how to become a better writer, trainer, or a better contributor to society. Some of you may ask what is the secret to reading every day. I will tell you this that since I started reading books by other successful trainers I have become a better trainer. I have also started reading motivational books, and business books. Listed below are some of the best books that I have read. My list will definitely be different from yours but these secrets will help you to improve your life.





2. Take 20 minutes to meditate and do absolutely nothing let your mind wander.

Some of my best ideas come from meditating on my current problems and finding the solutions that I need to overcome them. Make sure that you do this in a quiet room and turn off all electronic devices. It will be tough at first but the more you do it the clearer your mind will become.

3. Be happier.

Happier people live longer and don't get as sick as the rest of us. The secret is to enjoy life. Smile, laugh and don't get to discouraged because tomorrow can always be better than today. Check out this article for more information on happiness

4. Say thank you.

5. Compliment someone.

Sincere appreciation towards a person can make a big difference in making someones day better. I had a lady at the grocery store tell me that she was having a terrible day. I told her that I only come to her line because she is the fastest grocer and she always has a great attitude. I told her that every time I go to the store I hope she is working and I know that she will always remember that compliment.

6. Make a list of 5 things you accomplished today.

If you write a list of things you accomplished today you will notice one of two things. 1. I was very productive or 2. I need to step up my game. This will also help you to become more productive because you will be thinking what 5 things can I accomplish tomorrow.

7. Plan ahead.

I usually plan tomorrows day the night before. I didn't always do this but I have found that I am much more productive when I do this. The secret to this one is when you plan ahead you don't have to sit around and question what you will be doing in the mornings the next day.

8. Keep a Journal to reflect on what is happening on a day to day basis.

I started keeping a gratitude journal because I was complaining that I was not making as much money as I wanted too. I told myself you need to stop thinking about all you don't have and start being thankful for what you do have. Every day I write down these things in my Journal.

G- Gratitude (what am I thankful for)
O-Opportuniy (what opportunities can I capitalize on and how can I create more of them) 
Did- What did I accomplish today
Do- What do I plan on doing tomorrow.
App- Who do I appreciate

9. Take some time out for yourself to have fun.

The secret to taking some time for yourself is not to take too much time. I know it easy to get bogged down with our day to day tasks and then get home and act like a zombie (watch TV and eat potato chips until you go to bed). I am not telling you to do that I am just telling you to enjoy your life and take 1-2 hours for yourself each day.

10.Exercise.

This one is a no brainer if you exercise your body releases endorphin's which help to lower stress. Exercise also has many other benefits which will help all aspects of your life.

Exercise:
Fights Fat
Reduces Stress
Improves Your Metabolism
Makes you look awesome in a swimsuit
Improves your confidence... and much more


What do you think about my short and sweet list please comment about the top ten things you do to improve your life?


Dedicated to helping you become your best self,

Ben Myslenski

Monday, December 2, 2013

Your #1 Fat Loss Workout Mistake

Guest Post By Kate Vidulich, Fat Loss Expert
My heart was racing, lungs burning and sweat was pouring off my head. Only 9 minutes had passed, yet it felt like I’d been training for hours. As I sat in the corner gasping for air, the interval timer screeched to signify the end of the fastest ever 90-second break.
Two minutes later, my “off-day” workout was done. The thing is, it took no longer than 20 minutes, and was over before I could even register how challenging it was.
What’s the number one excuse for missing your workout?
Lack of time.
The number two excuse, according to unofficial Australian research conducted by me, is happy hour drinks. But that’s another story.
Here’s the troublesome situation…
-       You got stuck at work and traffic was so bad, your 45-minute workout window shrunk to 20 minutes. Bugger.
-       You show up to train, but unfortunately everyone had the same idea as you. It’s jammed.
So if you have no time and you need to get a quick fat loss workout in, what choices are you left with?
1. Elliptical? Please. Stop. Now.
2. Usual Dreadmill intervals? 20 mins again. Really? That’s so 2008.
3. The same old bodyweight circuit? Boring.
Three strikes and you’re out.
How long do you really need for a heart pounding, fat blasting workout?
Less than you imagine.
Think about this for a moment. In a regular workout session, 10-15 minutes can elapse by the time you get cracking – before you reach the awesome fat blasting action.
Now I’m not saying you should skip dynamic warm ups or core training when you’re pressed for time, these are very important components. But you need to get to the entree as soon as possible.
You need a plan. You need to focus. You need to hustle.
ONE big fat loss workout mistake to AVOID
Resting for too long.
Ideally, your rest breaks should be no longer than 30 seconds when training for fat loss. It’s tough, but using a GymBoss Interval timer (or your Smartphone) will stop you from cheating or slacking off.
Without any control over your rest breaks, your workout can become just like happy hour (only without beer – how boring).
You only need 20 minutes to workout. But before you jump on the dreadmill and do intervals again… You need a fast, fat-burning workout solution that you can do in a small space with minimal equipment.
Try this intense workout solution.
These intense, targeted interval workouts involve the strategic use of compounding, hybrid exercises to maximize fat burning and training time to break through plateaus.
Why is this style of workout so effective?
You can pump up the intensity without killing any one muscle group, allowing you to burn more calories faster with total body movements.
Metabolic workouts, like this one, also increase the after burn effect to significantly higher levels than cardio on the dreadmill, meaning you burn more calories after the workout at rest.
Of course, training with intensity and avoiding extended rest periods will leave you sweating buckets, but this will accelerate your fat loss results.
Did I mention this is fun? Training should NOT be deathly boring or long winded.
Be different. Burn fat while having fun conquering these unique, metabolic movements and save time in your training sessions, maximize your calorie expenditure and eliminate the boredom of cardio.
Now you can say bye-bye to intervals on the sweaty dreadmill. Actually, just say forget about it to cardio entirely.
Replace your interval days with Fat Loss Accelerators, and reduce the stress involved with thinking and planning.
Rock on!
Kate Vidulich, BSc, ACSM, CTT
PS - If you liked this article and video, and want to learn more about the unique fat loss workouts I use with my clients, check out my new Fat Loss Accelerators program – it’s on sale at a ridiculous price for a very limited time:
About the Author
Kate Vidulich, BSc, ACSM, HFS, CTT is New York’s Premier Fat Loss Expert. Kate specializes in designing and implementing personalized, effective, results-oriented training programs. Her unique, fun approach to fat loss has helped thousands of people across the world achieve their goals, at all ages. An ultra-marathoner and always up for a challenge, Kate consults with clients in private one-on-one, and online coaching with clients worldwide. She regularly updates her blog at FatLossAccelerators.com
Dedicated to you becoming your best self,

Ben Myslenski

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

15 Ways to Make Extra Money for the Holidays

During the holidays we could all use a little extra money right? I mean I could use a couple extra Benjamins to buy some cool presents. What would you do if you made a little more money for the holidays? Check out the list.

  1. Make Holiday Decorations. Examples include holiday wreaths, painting nutcrackers...etc
  2. Take pictures and sell them on a photo website. If you are interested here is an article about where to sell your photos. 
  3. Shovel Snow or Plow Driveways. It's pretty easy and you can make a decent amount of money especially if you live in a busy neighborhood. Call your neighbors and ask them.
  4. Pick up odd jobs.  If you want to earn extra money during the holiday's and you are skilled in a trade you can make extra money by doing odd jobs like putting up Christmas lights, shoveling snow, personal shopper, gift wrapping, and other side jobs that can ear extra money
  5. Work in a retail store. I have noticed that there are retail stores that are hiring people on the spot. Sure it would suck to work Thanksgiving day but you will sure enjoy having the extra money for the holidays.
  6. Compose a work of art. If you are artistic you can make money selling your paintings or other works of art during the holidays.
  7. Write a book. I recommend using Amazon Publisher. Amazon takes 30% but you can make 70%, which is a lot better than most places. You can also use places like Elance to proof read and correct errors in your book. I know people who have wrote fitness e-books and made between $500-$5,000 dollars during the Holidays. I do not have knowledge of other industries so it probably differs based on your field of expertise.
  8. Holiday Cleaning. My mom is a crazy cleaning freak and she would be awesome at doing this. I talked to her about this and she said that people pay anywhere from $10-50/hr. If you are good you can make a good amount of money for your holiday gift fund.
  9. Tutor Students. If you have patience and want to make some extra money you can Tutor Students. People make anywhere from $10-$75/hr. The tougher the subject and the more knowledgeable you are the more money you can make.
  10. Babysit. If you like kids you can babysit during the holiday's.
  11. Build a Website. Elance is another good resource that you can use to make extra money for the holidays.
  12. Donate Plasma. If you want to make $60 dollars fast its really easy to do
  13. Cater Meals. My Aunt Claire is an excellent cook and makes money on the side by catering. 
  14. Lab Rat. If you are not scared of anything and want to make anywhere from $100-$30,000 (yes, you can make that much but at the risk of never seeing the light of day. It is your choice on how you want to make your holiday money. 
  15. Rent your stuff. If you have multiple barns full of stuff you never use like my Grandma does you should think about renting out your stuff or even selling it. You can even rent out your barns for people to store their boats.
This is just a small list of things that you can do to make money for the holidays. I hope it helps you to earn a little extra money for the holidays.

Dedicated to helping you become your best self,

Ben Myslenski




Monday, November 25, 2013

Why we need regulations on personal training certifications

5 Reasons we need stricter regulations on personal training certifications

I did a search on the internet the other day and was looking at how many personal training certifications there are. Did you know that on the IDEAFit website there are over 120 personal training certifications? This list is only for personal training certifications it does not include the many group exercise, yoga, gym specific and the other groups that certify fitness professionals. How many of these are regulated personal training certifications?

The CDC says that over 69% of Americans over the age of 20 are overweight. Read some of the articles here. We need better regulations that will allow these millions of Americans to get the help that they need.
                                       

Reason 1. Unregulated online exams.
I am ashamed to admit this but my very first personal training certification came from one of these so called “personal training certification sites”. I won’t mention the site but it gave you 5 attempts to take a test and you could use google to search things that you didn’t know. If the personal training industry wants to be regarded as a legitimate career path for individuals who are seeking to go into the health and fitness industry they need to have exams that are proctored at a facility.

Reason 2. Less Idiots Who are “Certified Personal Trainers”
Thanks to Meathead trainers who think training until you can’t move another muscle is a “great workout bro” we as personal trainers get a bad reputation. The fact that there are so many of these trainers who are out there and have no idea what movements in the sagittal, transverse, or frontal planes of motion mean speaks volumes to why there needs to be stricter regulation.

Reason 3. Insurance Coverage for Personal Training
If insurance companies covered personal training more people would take advantage of it. If there were stricter guidelines on certifications or a National Certifying body we could lobby to have insurance companies cover personal training. This would also open up training to millions of Americans who need the help.

Reason 4. More Trainers Who Have the Necessary Experience to Help Their Clients
Personal trainers would be required to continue to learn and build their knowledge in the industry. They would be required to go through more studying and hopefully get hands on experience in order to

Reason 5. Industry Will Be Perceived as More Than Just “Highly Paid Workout Partners”
I have people constantly telling me that they don’t want to pay someone to workout with them. When the sad reality is that they need the accountability because they can’t do it on their own. It is really a shame that we are viewed as glorified workout partners. I know for a fact if you asked your average client what the Functional Movement Screen was or whether they knew about Metabolic Training they would have no idea. If people can’t achieve the results they want without help than they need help and that is why we are here.



Thursday, November 21, 2013

Top 10 tips to prevent holiday weight gain +(bonus workout)

(Image from Tracy Gardner Flicker.com)


During the holidays it is tough to maintain a good workout schedule and eat healthy. It is important that you have a plan of action to fight the Holiday weight gain that we often fall prey to. I have included 10 tips for surviving the Holiday's. The average weight gain varies from person to person and can be anywhere from 1-15lbs between Thanksgiving and New Year's. 




  • Tip 1. Don't skip your workouts 
Even if you can get 20 minutes of moderate intensity exercise it will help. Try doing something active like walking, playing backyard football, ice skating and bowling. You should try to get in at least 2 high intensity exercise sessions during the week.
  • Tip 2. Log what you eat (I use myfitnesspal)
It is easier than ever to track what you are eating and you can now see how helpful everything is for your body thanks to technology.
  • Tip 3. Eat your food slowly
I know this is a tough one for me because I eat really fast. A WebMD study by (Kathleen Zelman in the article "slow down you eat too fast") says that It takes approximately 20 minutes from the time you start eating for your brain to send out signals of fullness.
  • Tip 4.Give away leftovers that are going to hinder you from achieving your goals.
  • Tip 5 minimize alcohol consumption
Stick with 1 type of alcohol and try to avoid the sugary beverages like Long Islands, Malibu, Anything with energy drinks or soda mixers. Try instead to dilute with water or mix with tonic. You can also try cutting up fruit and adding it to your beverage of choice.



                                                                                              (Image from Robert S. Donovan)



  • Tip 6. Drink a lot of water
Your body needs at least 8 glasses of water per day (8oz). Make sure that you are taking in enough water because that will help you to feel fuller.

  • Tip 7. Be Thankful
Too often we don't appreciate all that we have in America. If you really want to feel thankful go down to a homeless shelter and serve holiday meals. I always say that you should give money to good causes but if you don't have money give away information or your time.

  • Tip 8. Eat food from quality sources
Make sure that you are eating Proteins, Greens, and Whole Grains.

  • Tip 9. Take a break
If you are constantly working and shopping schedule an hour in the day where you do absolutely nothing

  • Tip 10. Have Fun
The holidays are a time of year where you can enjoy friends, family and memories that will last forever. Enjoy the holidays and don't forget to watch what you eat.

As promised here is the bonus workout. 

Pushups 50 reps
Squats   100 reps        (alternate between the two until you reach the #of reps for each)

Dedicated to helping you become your best self,

Ben Myslenski

Monday, November 18, 2013

20 minute Kettlebell Circuit

We have an awesome workout video that we just put together it is for a 20 minute Kettlebell Circuit. Troy and Ben from Anytime Fitness Grand Haven show you a quick 20 minute kettlebell circuit.20 minutes as many rounds as possible

5 reps per round begginer, 6-8 per round intermediate, 10 reps per round advanced

We used a 45lb Kettlebell (use a Kettlebell that fits your current fitness level)

Kettlebell Snatch
Pushups
Kettlebell Swing
Pushups
KB Front Squat
Pushups

Kettlebell workout,

20 minutes (as many rounds as possible with good form)

5 reps begginer   6-8 reps intermediate  10 reps  advanced    

Kettlebell Snatch
Pushups
Kettlebell Swing
Pushups
Kettlebell Front Squat
Pushups



Dedicated to helping you become your best self

Ben Myslenski

Saturday, November 16, 2013

"You are the average of the 5 people you associate with the most"

"You are the average of the 5 people you associate with the most"-Jim Rohn

Who you associate with can have a large impact on who or what you become.

When I was growing up I wanted to be an all star wide receiver like my idol Jerry Rice. Well I can tell you today that I am not the next Jerry Rice but who I am today has been shaped by what I have learned along the way.

Some of you are like what the heck does this have to do with your quote. I will tell you. While I was growing up I did not have a lot of friends because I was home schooled until my sophmore year of high school. When I did get to school I was the kind of kid who was easily influenced by kids around me who I thought were cool. I started trying to be just like everyone else and turned out to be like everyone else because that is what I aspired to be. What I should have been doing was trying to emulate the best athletes that I aspired to be like. I should have studied what kind of workouts they did and how long they practiced. I should have also studied THE PLAYBOOK. I didn't do any of these things. I was a great athlete but I didn't know the plays or formations. When I actually comitted to working out every day one summer I didn't work very hard and talked to the other guys on my team. This all led to me being the same as every other player. I lacked the drive and determination to be the next Jerry Rice. I became the average of the 5 people I associated with the most.

When I arrived at college I did the same thing that I had always done. Don't get me wrong I had and have great friends but I never made the effort to aspire to be more while I was growing up. I was to preoccupied with going to awesome parties and making people like me.




After college I moved to Virginia for a job at George Mason University. It wasn't until I moved to virginia and started thinking a lot about what I wanted out of life that I truly found my purpose. I started to care more about helping people and giving good advice. I also met a lot of great people who helped me see the world differently. They taught me to read books by thought leaders like Jim Rohn, Tony Robbins, Stephen Covey, Napoleon Hill, Brian Tracy and many more. When you start learning about real knowledge you become a different person, it changes you.

At that moment you have 2 choices stay where you are or become something more. I knew at that moment I had to choose to write out my goals and start planning out my future. I made a choice to pursue my dreams of owning a personal training business right there. How was I able to do this? I started to seek out those people who aspired to be like. If you want to be average there are plenty of people who are average and will help you stay where you are. If you want to be extraordinary seek out those who are where you want to be and emulate them.

If you are seeking to be more than average you should:
  • Start reading books on whatever it is that interests you.
  • Most importantly is take action and start today
  • Read books on how to set goals
  • Read motivational books
  • Get a mentor or study those who are or do what you want to do or have the knowledge that you seek
  • Always be willing to learn
  • Don't judge others until you know them
  • Give (whether it is your time, money, or information)
  • Start hanging out with people who are going to continue to challenge you to improve
Today I ask questions and I seek out the wise advice of people who are where I want to be.

You have it in your power to improve the quality of your life and become whatever you want to be.

Dedicated to helping you become your best self,

Ben Myslenski

Friday, November 15, 2013

NASM CPT Review/ how to pass the NASM CPT Exam

It has been one year since I passed my NASM CPT exam. I will first review the NASM CPT and then I will give you tips on how to pass it. National Academy of Sports Medicine.


How to pass NASM CPT Exam
Quick Facts about the NASM CPT:
  • I bought the $999 course which included a free workshop, backpack, book, proctored exam, gaurantee retest (I didn't need it), 90 day job gaurantee and the online follow along course
  • I studied for 3 months before I took the course
  • Includes a follow along guide that will help you plan out your time
  • If you receive the book brand new you can also have access to the website specific to the book
  • If you are a visual person the videos will really help you to understand the material
  • It also comes with Flashcards (online) that really help especially when prepping for the exam
  • NASM is very well rounded and in my opinion is in the top 3 of certifications
The CPT course is online except for the material that you will read in the book. All material is online other than the book. The  prerequisites to taking the NASM CPT are that you have a high school diploma/G.E.D, be at least 18 years old, and have your CPR certification. When I compared NASM to the other certification there was no doubt in my mind that it was the best certification for me.

As far as the course goes I really appreciated that they give you a basic refresher on what you need to know about bones, and muscles. They also do a very good job covering basic exercise science. The book is split into 4 sections.
  1. Fundamentals of Human Movement Science
  2. Assesments, Training Concepts and Program Design (largest section)
  3. Nutrition and Supplementation
  4. Client Interaction and Personal Development

What I liked about the NASM CPT:
  • It was very well rounded as far as covering multiple topics and areas
  • Although I sometimes do not us the OPT model I like the model as a basis for beginners (see image left)
  • I appreciate that they go over assessments and how to spot muscle imbalances and how to fix them.
  • The NASM CPT has a wealth of knowledge about flexibility, strength, cardio, balance, plyometric, sports performance
  • The NASM CPT has information on dealing with clients who have chronic health conditions, and physical/functional limitation (diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis...etc)
  • The appendices are very nice for checking muscles, bones, and other exercises)
  • Although limited I appreciated the nutrition and building a personal training business sections
What I didn't like or thought needed to be improved within the NASM CPT:

  • More in depth about muscles as movers... agonist, antagonist, stabilizer,and synergistic muscles
  • A more well written portion about starting a personal training business
  • The biggest  complaint I have had with all of the certifications is that they don't include enough specific information on weight loss (HELLO!!! this is what almost every client I train wants)
I would rate the NASM CPT a 9/10.


Quick facts on how to pass the NASM CPT Exam:
  • Make sure that you really study the anatomy of the human body
  • understand how to do a proper assessment
  • Understand which muscles are acting as the antagonist, agonist, synergist, and stabilizer (I had a lot of questions on my test with examples like a bench press, squat and 
  • Study the planes of motion and axes
  • Study a little about special populations
  • MOST IMPORTANT THING TO STUDY the different muscles that are inactive or over active and if the feet turn out during a overhead squat what that means.
  • Study and review the OPT model and what happens at each stage
  • review the lessons, flashcards, and watch the video lessons (if you do all of these things and have a good understanding of the material you should pass no problem)

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Turbulence Training Review

Check it out here: www.TurbulenceTraining.com

Review of Turbulence Training: The Program that Promises Maximum Fat Loss in Minimum Workout Time

Turbulence Training promises fast fat loss results for men and women who don't have a lot of time for exercise. This is a bold promise, and the workouts promise maximum results in only three workouts per week.

Let's take a look at this claim, and see if it really measures up!
Before we get to the program, let's take a look at the expert behind the workouts. I've come across Craig Ballantyne's name many times in popular fitness magazines such as Men's Health and Men's Fitness. So the program is clearly put together by a trusted fitness expert.

Craig is unlike the trainers with weekend certifications that pop up at large commercial gyms. Craig's experience goes back to the mid-nineties, in both the gym and in the research lab. He's actually led research trials on sport supplements, strength training, and cardiovascular training.

Plus, Craig has been a strength coach and has worked with hundreds of clients in thousands of training sessions. This is a unique, and thorough background, so its not surprising he's come up with a new training system for fat loss.

In fact, Craig's articles are always pretty hard on traditional aerobic cardio workouts. So if you're looking for new ways to spend 30 or 60-minutes doing cardio, then this program is not for you. But if you only have 45 minutes to workout, a couple of times per week, and you have access to only a bench, dumbells, and an exercise ball, then you'll like what Craig has for you here.

Now one of the biggest questions about the program is simply, "What is Turbulence Training " Well according to Craig, its the combination of resistance training and interval training used to boost your metabolism so that your body burns calories and fat between workouts. He says, "Cardio doesn't boost your metabolism after exercise. Only strength training and interval training do that - while you work, sleep, and eat - your body will be shedding fat."

Fortunately, Craig's unique system of bodyweight exercises, dumbell exercises, and interval training can all be done at home, with minimal equipment (if you are really strong, it might help to have a chinup bar). So again, if you are one of those people who loves machines, or cardio equipment, or marathon workouts, then this program is not for you.
Frankly, I've used the program myself and recommended to many others. Why? Because no one has time for long workouts! That's why. After an eight or ten hour workday, a round-trip commute of 90 minutes, and spending time with my family, I just don't have time to do another 90 minute workout every day of the week.

In fact, I either get up early and do the workout before work, or I do it just before bed. This workout is perfect for busy men and women. But its not the type of routine that is going to turn anyone into a pro bodybuilder. If you want maximum muscle and want to bulk up, try another one of Craig's programs. But the Turbulence Training system is best for burning fat without sacrificing muscle - so you end up lean, defined, chiseled and toned.

And its fun! So many workouts are boring (i.e. long cardio) or repetitive (i.e. doing the same bodybuilding workout over and over again). But Turbulence Training uses a lot of unique (but not fluffy) exercises, including some cool, killer bodyweight moves that will make you more athletic and increase your functional and core strength - again, all with minimal equipment needs.

But, I am even able to recommend this program to friends who are just starting out, because Craig has put together a 6-week introductory program, and a 4-week intermediate program in addition to the 16-week advanced training phase (PLUS, the Turbulence Training program comes with a massive amount of bonus workouts for muscle building, bodyweight only, advanced fat loss, and even a female specific bonus).
But each workout progresses into the next. He's used all of these workouts with hundreds of clients - so they are safe and effective. Sure, you can get other programs that leave you smashed and puking after the first workout, but Turbulence Training is not like that. Soreness doesn't matter, only results matter! And you are in expert hands with Turbulence Training, and Men's Health expert, Craig Ballantyne.

Craig's Turbulence Training also contains a contract -- basically, your pledge to being committed to the program. It also includes an ebook on Nutrition Guidelines from expert, Dr. Chris Mohr, Ph.D., and an extensive Q&A section, a 21-Healthy Habit Building Plan, plus the complete Turbulence Training workouts for beginner, intermediate and advanced level individuals.
All users will benefit from the Turbulence Training MP3 audio where Craig goes over the program, plus you can find every single exercise explained in detail, complete with photos.
Okay, so bottom line. Turbulence Training is NOT....
  • Long, slow cardio workouts
  • A machine-based exercise circuit
  • A bodybuilding program to gain bulk
  • A workout with lots of time-wasting isolation exercises
  • A restrictive eating plan
Turbulence Training provides NONE of the above. On the other hand, Turbulence Training is perfect for busy men and women who want to burn fat in the comfort of their own homes without spending a lot of money on equipment or space on exercise machines. Oh, and you'll actually have fun and you won't "dread" these workouts - heck, they will be over before you know it!
If you're in the slightest bit curious, I recommend you look closely at Craig's program. I was very impressed with all of the Turbulence Training workouts, the bonuses, the guarantee, and Craig's expertise. For the money, it's the best deal in the fitness and fat loss industry - so much better than diet pills! And remember...
Craig Ballantyne's Turbulence Training is backed by a 8-week money back guarantee. And this is a real guarantee... if you are not completely satisfied, you will receive your money back, no "ifs," "ands," or "buts." So you really have nothing to lose. 

Check it out here: www.TurbulenceTraining.com

P.S. I have tried several of Craig's workouts and they are incredible. He also includes a good variety of content that will help you reach your goals

P.S.S. Craig loves helping people and his mission is to help 1 million people so he gives away a lot of bonuses. Turbulence Training is awesome!

Friday, November 1, 2013

Why you don't reach your fitness goals

1. Fear
Fear is one of the biggest obstacles we have in regards to achieving our goals. It can be the fear of something new that prevents you from ever trying. It can also be fear of failure that prevents you from reaching your goals. If you are scared that you might fail you may never start. It can be fear of what your friends think. 
Make small steps towards your goal each day. Do something outside of your comfort zone. If you are afraid of failing and never start you have already failed. If you are scared of what your friends think and they can't support you in your pursuit of your goals get rid of them. The most important thing you can do is surround yourself with people who support you.

2. You never even start:
If you never even start how do you expect to reach your goals? I had one lady tell me that it was too hard for her but when I asked her how many times a week she was exercising she said she hadn't even started. ARE YOU KIDDING ME, WAKE UP AND GET OUT THERE!!
This one is pretty easy, start walking, go to the gym, walk the dog, run, honestly do anything that is going to help you reach your goals and write your goals down. If you never start you can't accomplish your goals and if you write your goals down you are more likely to achieve them.

3. You don't stay on a specific program:
I used to be the worst offender of this. I would start a workout plan and have some great results and then fall off the bandwagon because I found a cool new workout plan. If you are trying to achieve your goals stick to a program for at least 6 weeks. 

4. Time
But Ben I don't have enough time. If you say this to me I am going to kick you in the shin and then I will tell you to write down everything that you do during the day. I will find out what you are really doing that is wasting time. How many of you continually waste time playing video games, WATCHING TV, and doing other sorts of nonsense that will not get you the results you need.
The easy way to combat this is find the time. I don't care if it is 10 minutes twice per day or if you have to CUT BACK ON TV (I know shocker huh, watch a little less of your doctor show, or vampire/zombie show). 

5. Commitment
"I think I am going to just go to Starbucks and have a cup of sugar with my coffee and then eat this oversized pastry instead of going to the gym" said no one committed to their goals. If you can't get to the gym or are struggling to stay on track then you are struggling with accountability/commitment. 
Get a friend to come to the gym with you, drag your husband or wife, or hire a trainer. Write down your goals. If you need to put money in a jar and give it to a charity for every day that you fail to exercise that will keep you on track.

6. I’m not losing enough weight
If you are not losing weight figure out why and fix it. "I have been working out all the time and I can't lose the weight". If this is you then you might very well be eating the wrong foods, drinking too much alcohol, or doing the same boring VHS "buns & guns" that your mom did when you were 7. 
Weight comes off in inches people. If your trainer does not tell you this then get another one who knows this. If you lose 3 inches in your waist but gain a pound are you going to complain??? NO, because you lost 3 inches and probably added lean muscle mass. If you are doing the right things in the gym and are eating the right foods it will happen.  I would also recommend using myfitnesspal or a similar app to track calories.

7. You eat too much sugar:
The average American eats 160 pounds of sugar every year and we wonder why we get diabetes. If you like soda, coffee with sugar, energy drinks, alcohol, Gatorade, PowerAde, and even fruit juice, they are all bad for you. 
The easiest way to combat this is by drinking water, drinking alcohol on the rocks or with water, cut back on sugary sweets and definitely cut back on Starbucks. Look, I love gummy bears and chocolate as much as anyone but I know that if I eat them they will give me joint pain, headaches, and much worse.

8. You eat carbs like they are going out of style
This is self-explanatory limit your carb intake to cut down unwanted body fat.

9. You start but you don't finish
If you start and are having great results or any at all don't stop. Too many people allow their busy schedule, soccer practice, marathons of desperate housewives and the other excuses. IF YOUR GOAL IS IMPORTANT YOU WILL FIND A WAY TO CONTINUE.

10. You look for the easy fix
"Hey Jenny I watched that infomercial for little cookie bar diet the other day and I think I am going to do it" MY ANSWER IS NOOOOO!!!! People are always going to look for the quick fix and the truth is it takes hard work and dedication to reach your goals. The weight loss pills don't work and are a scam. The arm circle 9000, and shake weights do not work so please stop buying them. 

11. Weight loss surgery or medications
I will be honest with you and say that over 70% of people who get the surgery go right back to the way they were before. Why does this happen? It happens because they didn't make the lifestyle changes necessary to sustain the amount of weight they gained before the surgery.
Do yourself a favor and take the proper steps to lose the weight. Hire a trainer, workout with a friend, or have someone hold you accountable. Change takes time, you didn't gain the weight in one night so you shouldn't lose it all in a day.

12. You don't do cardio or weight training
If you are not doing one or both start today.

13. You listen to the wrong people
Every person is different Ms. Jones down the street might want to get toned up and look sexy while Janet is going to want to lose weight. Don't get me wrong Janet wants to look sexy too but she has to lose the weight first. Each person is going to be different and have certain things that work for them. We were not all created the same. 
Do what makes you feel good and what fits your goals. 

14. You don't drink enough water
This one is simple drink more water.

15. You don't seek professional help
You can't become the dynamic superstar that you want to be overnight. You will have a much better chance to reach your goals if you seek out the guidance of professionals and NO THAT DOES NOT MEAN THE BIGGEST GUY OR SMALLEST GIRL AT THE GYM!!

Dedicated to helping you become your best self,

Ben Myslenski