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September
5
Metamorphosis
Filed Under Move | 8 Comments
I will talk about Tracy Anderson to anyone or anything with ears. I even blogged about her last year. For the full scoop on Tracy (super trainer to the stars), click here to read my post from last August. For those of you already familiar with Ms. Anderson, she has come out with a 90 day exercise program called Metamorphosis. I just finished the 90 day program and had to share. Here’s the 411: This program has 3 parts: (1) an eating plan, (2) a 30 minute cardio routine; and (3) nine 30 minute muscular structure workouts (fancy way of saying toning!). I did NOT do her eating plan, and I am not a big fan of her cardio. I did this 90 day program for the muscular structure workout. I am not a nutritionist, so this is purely a very non-professional opinion (that’s never stopped me before), but I think that her eating plan is too restrictive. The cardio workout for this 90 day program is one 30 minute routine that consists of lots of bouncing up and down. Not for me. But because I think Tracy is REALLY onto something with her muscular structure workouts, I basically created my own spin on Tracy’s Metamorphosis that went a little something like this…
1. First, choose from four different Metamorphosis programs, depending on the area you want to focus on: Omnicentric, Hipcentric, Abcentric or Glutecentric. Each of the four programs target all parts of your body but put a special focus on the area that you choose. Click here to read specific descriptions of each program.
2. Once you’ve chosen your plan, do 30 minutes of cardio-of-your-choice. After your 30 minutes of cardio, do the 30 minute muscular structure workout. This toning workout has arms with and without 3 lb. weights, standing abs, seated abs, and MAJOR lower body (tush, hips, quads, hamstrings and inner & outer thighs). You do the same muscular structure workout for 10 days in a row, then you move on to the next routine. Let me just say that the lower body portion of the routine gives a new meaning to working your a** off.
3. Here’s the best news of all! You do this 6 days in a row, then you get the 7th day off. On that rest day, you will say, “Hallelujah!” I promise. I am not sure why in the heck I thought that summertime would be the best time to try this program. On many a day, I did the toning portion with a small child either laying on my stomach or hanging on my back (seriously). So, this is a much better time to try something like this, now that the littles are back in school.
4. I’m not going to lie! The 9 different muscular structure workouts are HARD. You WILL have to stop and rest. And that’s O.K. Don’t get discouraged. In full disclosure, there were some days that I swore that I could not lift my leg even one more time!! And depending on my mood, I would either want to curl up in the fetal position and weep, or throw my hand weights at Tracy’s smiling face! But now that I’m done with (my version) of the 90 day program, I have to say that I feel a real sense of accomplishment and stronger than I ever have.
I’d love to hear from any of you who have tried Tracy’s Method or have done/or are doing Metamorphosis. So please do share. Buy the Metamorphosis DVDs at tracyandersonmethod.com ($90 for the entire 90 day program).
image courtesy of tracyandersonmethod.com
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June
27
bkr
Filed Under Give, Move, Stuff | 5 Comments
Just a quick post from my favorite mountain town–I read about the bkr {pronounced “beaker”} a month or so ago, and in my research learned they were a hot commodity. Quite difficult to come by. Just a few days ago I found one and had to have it! I admit I flinched {for a second or two} at the price tag. $28?? For a water bottle?? Confession – I haven’t had it out of my hands/backpack/bicycle basket since I turned over the credit card.
It is really fabulous. For some odd reason, drinking from this simple silicone covered glass vessel is fantastic. Clean & green.
From Tal Soltz creator & founder of bkr: “I believe that beauty can inspire people to make real changes. bkr is an evolution in the beauty of sustainability and health. From dirty plastic to clean glass, its not just fresh out of the box, the latest bottle, it’s a movement to do better. It’s going beautiful to make more beautiful.”
Enough. Said. Find one for yourself @ mybkr.com
xoxo from a Go to Girl on vacay.
p.s. I was a teeny bit concerned about dropping the bottle & having it shatter, but I accidentally tested it out by knocking over the bike and seeing it crash to the ground…all good!!!
image courtesy of bkr
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June
1
Smart Barre
Filed Under Move | 5 Comments
Those who know this Go to Girl, are aware I’m a complete yoga junkie. That said, I have been dying to try a barre workout for a while now. Ironically, I’m too lazy to make it to any of the places in town where I know it is offered. Thank goodness for the new Smart Barre studio that opened in my hood!!
I had seen construction going on while making my 12,548 daily trips down Camp Bowie, and was excited to learn that classes were starting today. Say. no. more. I woke up and began channeling my middle-school ballerina self to get ready. (No need for that kind of psych up actually, but I admit I did…) It was a fun and different workout, with a diverse selection of music – Lady Gaga & Kanye to Jack Johnson & Colbie Caillat. Not to mention precious Allison & Hayley sporting their toned dancer bods serving as great inspiration.
Can’t wait to go back!! Check their schedule & class info on their website here. If you decide to take a turn at the barre, be sure to tell them The Go to Girls sent you! (You can thank us later.)
Smart Barre/3911 Camp Bowie Blvd./Fort Worth/817.377.0261
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4
Watch Out!
Filed Under Give, Move, Wear | 3 Comments
I love working out with girls…chit-chatting, staying up on the latest. But when it comes to working out with boys, for me, it is GAME ON! Chalk it up to having brothers, but I’ll be damned to let a boy win! True story: Almost every day in the summer, I religiously hike the same trail. Not to toot my own horn, but I have never been passed up on this cardio-cruncher, until last summer. When this “boy” (okay, man) goes flying by me, not just walking fast but in a dead sprint straight up the mountain. It was a huge punch to my ego. Wounded (emotionally), I make it to the top as fast as I could, if for no other reason than to see who in the hell this guy was. Well, there stood Lance Armstrong (not kidding). I have a plan for a rematch this summer, and it involves my new favorite toy…the Garmin Forerunner 310XT watch. After quizzing my girlfriends, this sports watch was their fave. For fitness fans who are not as neurotic and/or vindictive as me, this watch is great for keeping your workouts on track. For more details as to why you too might benefit from strapping one on or to order, visit Amazon.com.
So GAME ON Lance! I don’t know about you, but I think he would really benefit from a girl sticking it to him! If nothing else this sure will motivate me. Wish me luck.
What is your favorite exercise watch or accessory?
Basic details of the Garmin Forerunner 310XT: Waterproof Running GPS with USB ANT Stick and comes with or without a heart rate monitor.
Image courtesy of Amazon.com
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February
22
Loving Now: Get Your Sweat On!
Filed Under Move | 5 Comments
Admittedly I love a great workout, but for me my playlist can make or break a good sweat. My current rotation has me kicking things up a notch so I had to share: Download any of these songs at iTunes. What are your favorite sweating tunes? Do tell!
California Stars / Wilco
Eh, Eh / Lady Ga Ga
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robot / The Flaming Lips
Freedom / George Michael
Footloose / Kenny Loggins (just try not to laugh when you listen; makes me smile every time)
Smoke Detector / Rilo Kiely
Vacation / Go Go’s
The Emperor’s New Clothes / Sinead O’Connor
Firework / Katy Perry
Head Over Heels / Go Go’s
Paper Planes / M.I.A.
Mean / Taylor Swift
Relator /Pete Yorn & Scarlet Johanson
Raise Your Glass / Pink
Cool Down
Here You Come Again / Dolly Parton
Hang On To Me Tonight / Mick Jagger
Gypsy / Shakira
Images courtesy: popbytes.com, jane-fonda.net, weblogs.sun-sentinel.com
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February
3
Hello There Weekend!
Filed Under Eat, Go, Move | 11 Comments
I know…there are still more than 36 hours until Friday 5 p.m. and the “official” start of the weekend. (Just writing that makes me wonder what job description holds the privilege to make that kind of important call?!?} Anyhow, my weekend is going to entail a little getaway to our state capitol with The Mister. A couple of snow days this week clearly have me itching for some time outside of my zipcode. My weekend will begin at 7:45 manana, when I wave goodbye to our little peeps as the carpool pulls away from the curb – weather willing.
Can. Not. Wait.
It’s been a long time since I have traveled I-35 to do anything other than see the Longhorns lose play. I am not sure what to do with a few days to peruse as I please. I know my Austin friends will have some great suggestions for me. In the meantime, these are some of the things I’m planning to delight in – besides the fantastic company, of course…
Uchiko – 4200 N. Lamar – haven’t been yet, and am so excited to go check it out.
Congress - 200 Congress Avenue – David Bull’s newest, has gotten rave reviews.
Not sure I can go without. Dirty’s - 2808 Guadalupe
A new fave discovery – Galaxy – 1000 West Lynn. Best sweet potato fries around!
To get a little sweat on, I will be going for some yoga. No question. Gotta balance out the calories in with some calories out.
Bodhi Yoga
So far, that’s all I have friends – besides the requisite visits to Whole Foods, Lululemon, By George, and a little work. I will post my shopping successes next go round. Hope you all thaw out nicely and enjoy the sunshine ahead!
What are your favorite Austin destinations???
xoxo.
November
30
Go to Gifts – Kids (& those who wish they were)
Filed Under Give, Move, Read, Stuff | 3 Comments
Typically in July, when my kids start getting the “I wants” like crazy, I repeat (as I have AT LEAST 1 gozillion times) –”Better add that to your Christmas List…” Now, the time has come and I want to share some of the things on the wish lists of The Go To’s next generation (after world peace, of course). What is Santa going to be schlepping down your chimney this year??? We would love to hear!!
Hardcover Classic Books – by Penguin Classics
Designer Coralie Bickford-Smith has created some quirky and beautifully finished linen covers for favorite classic books like Little Women, Pride and Prejudice, and Emma to name just a few. These are editions that will not only add high style to any bookshelf, but become treasured by generations to come. Available at penguinclassics.com or Amazon for $12-20
Diana Lomography Cameras
A reproduction of the 1960′s classic camera given away at carnivals and midways, the Diana takes very cool photos with character. It is all plastic, very low-tech, you actually need film AND you have to take said film to a lab for developing. (This threw my kids for a loop!) Read more about the Diana here on the Diana Lomography website. You can purchase the camera at Urban Outfitters or in various locations on the web, including Amazon. $50 and up.
Miss Matched Socks
Several pairs of socks from Little Miss Matched. The crazy cute designs come in packs of 3, so your fashionista can mix patterns any way she’s inspired to. The extra sock also comes in handy when the dryer inevitably eats one of the group for a mid day snack attack. There is a flip flop sock that is perfect for those who refuse to part with their havianias even though it’s sub 32 degrees outside. There are also cute hats and scarves on the site that would be perfect for giving. $8 and up at Little Miss Matched
Another way to give the gift of books is through a subscription to Audible.com – this online library has over 85,000 audiobooks available for download on your computer, iPod, iPhone, or other smart phone. You can even burn a CD of the book if you would rather go that route. Several subscription levels are available, depending on how many books you’ll download per month. There is a special introductory offer on the Audible website for 3 months at $7.49, and then $14.95 per month after for 1 credit (1 book) a month.
Emi-Jay
Girls of all ages {even yours truly} LOVE these hair accessories. The pony holders and headbands come in fantastic colors and don’t leave a crease when you take them out. Some wee hipsters even sport these bands as bracelets. Emi-jay has a new line of ties with a crystal bead – would be great for a party or special occasion. Hair ties range from $6 for a 3-pack of same color ties to $12 each for crystal bead ties, and headbands are $5-6 each. Shop online at emi-jay.com
Shashi Woven Jewelry
Adjustable cord and textured bead necklaces and bracelets are great alone or as a layering piece for girls. One size fits all. From $28 at shopbop.com and Max and Chloe online.
Skuut Bike
A perfect first ride for little people, the Skuut Balance Bike has no pedals or training wheels. This bike is powered Fred Flintstone style to develop the balance, steering and coordination skills needed to ride a big bike. $94 at REI.
Razor Sole Skate
For the older street urchins, this three-wheeled foot skate by Razor. About the size of your shoe, this operates much like a skateboard. Small enough to clip on a backpack or throw in the car or travel bag. $39 and up at Target stores, target.com and amazon.
Slap Watches
Fun and cool watches that go on and off with a slap. Bands and face outlines are interchangeable so you can switch your look as often as you like! $49.50 at delight.com
Minnetonka boots & slippers
Keep little bitty toes warm and toasty at home and outdoors. I found both styles at Moccasins Direct online. The crepe sole backzip boots are $29.95 and the fleece lined slippers are $24.95 – don’t worry, they both come in adult sizes as well…
My apologies to the one GTG’s little buddy that is requesting a t-shirt cannon and motorized cooler this year for not sharing the purchasing details here…I hope Santa can find them anyway!
images courtesy of google images, penguin books, rei, delight.com, little miss matched & minnetonka
October
18
About two years ago, I stumbled upon Lululemon at a trunk show being held in my fave local yoga studio (learn more about that spot here). The clothing was cute. The sales rep was super sweet too. I bought one top, and hoped I would see more of their things around from time to time. Little did I know how much I would come to love the Lululemon brand and their products. Founded in Vancouver a decade or so ago, Lulu was the brainchild of a technical fabrics whiz who was grossed out by the cotton clothing that people were wearing to the yoga class he was attending (Uhm, I’m with him). The workshop by day, became a yoga studio by night, depending on the instructors to wear and evaluate the designs. Lulu’s products are clever – think inspirational messages in the hems, reflective thread sewn into the seams, and openings in the sleeves where you can check your watch. They are super comfy and VERY flattering.
The staff at Lululemon practices what they preach. The store employees attend all types of fitness classes in the community, and the showrooms and stores hold free classes weekly as well. Local stores also choose ambassadors from the health & fitness community that embody the Lulu lifestyle. Some of the ambassadors around here are my favorite peeps!! My husband noticed a Lulu sponsored cycling team during this summer’s Tour de France. He would secretly love to be the local cycling ambassador, and not so secretly digs their men’s gear. Take a look at what can be yours online here, or go here to find a store located near you.
I currently love having their groove pants, inspire crops, swiftly tech long sleeved tops, and cool racerback tanks in my drawer. On my coveting list are the modern v neck long sleeved tee, express yourself wrap, and inspire pullover.
Oh, and I might like the dog whisperer pant for chilly fall and winter nights when I’m out with the new guy who lives at our house.
Besides, there’s got to be a little love (or a lot, in my case) and some good karma for a brand whose vision is “elevating the world from mediocrity to greatness”. See for yourself at:
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18
I have three simple criteria for my workout pants:
- Comfort;
- Style; and
- Do they make the tush look good?
I don’t think that is too much to ask! When I find a line that meets my 3 demands, I’m sold. That’s why I love lucy. Lucy is fashion forward, and their clothes are chic and comfortable. Whether you love to hit the gym, you’re a yogi, a walker, a runner, or just a gal about town, lucy activewear has got you covered. Here are a few of my fave lucy pants, but lucy also has tops, sports bras and jackets.
Many of you may already love lucy, too, but I wanted to share this now because shop before August 30, 2010, and use the code 0810EPOWER to get 20% off all regularly priced items, on-line or in-store (print coupon). Plus click here to find out about free shipping on orders of $125 or more. Shop here at lucy.com or click here to find a store near you.
lucy Core Knee Pant:Great for running, walking, or going to the gym. Super comfortable and very flattering. Regularly priced at $68, on sale for $39.99.
lucy X-Training Pant: Perfect for any workout, with a super comfortable waistband. I also love that these pants come in three lengths: $78.
Organic Satya Pant: For all you yogis out there, this pant is a must. Soft organic cotton, with a touch a lycra. Wide legs and THE most comfortable roll down waistband. I LOVE these pants. $88. 
lucy Walk About Pant: Shown in brown, but I have the black ones. Made of a flex material, which means comfort. These are your go anywhere pants: errands, walking, hiking, hopping on an airplane. I wear these pants all the time, and they come in three lengths. $68. 
images courtesy of lucy
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9
Method to Her Madness
Filed Under Move | 5 Comments
I first heard Tracy Anderson’s name when Oprah asked Gwyneth how she was looking oh-so-good after having 2 bebes in 2 1/2 years. Gwyneth’s answer…The Tracy Anderson Method. Because Gwyneth was looking oh-so-good, I thought I’d give this workout a try. Other videos have given me a good workout, but Anderson’s method has give me a great workout plus RESULTS! I know this sounds a bit like an infomercial, but it’s true. Anderson’s method and philosophy are simple: tire out larger muscle groups and therefore, target smaller muscle groups for an amazing toning result. I will warn you in advance that some of the moves in her method are a bit unorthodox (totally silly looking), and when my husband walks in the room when I am doing them, he always gets a good laugh. But whatever she’s doing seems to be working, so there is definitely a method to her madness. Here’s the skinny:
Mat Workout: Great toning video for anyone. Works your entire body, and if you do it consistently, you will see great results, especially in arm definition and lifting of the tush!! All you need is a yoga mat and 3 pound hand weights.
Post-Pregnancy Video: Don’t let this name fool you. This is another great toning workout if you had a baby 2 months ago or 20 years ago. The abs and legs sections on this video are a killer! I alternate doing the mat video and the post-pregnancy video.
The Mat Video and the Post-Pregnancy videos are my 2 favorite overall toning videos, and these are the first videos that I would recommend to anyone who is starting out with the Tracy Anderson Method. Read more
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