moms with muscle

Holiday Fitness & Nutrition Challenge

2011-11-21T11:07:00.001-08:00

Holiday Fitness & Nutrition Challenge

Bring in 2012 better than ever by joining the Moms In Motion Fitness & Nutrition Challenge!

We will focus on our health during this holiday season

and support each other along the way.

This 6 week challenge is FREE to all; moms in motion members, friends and family. Each week will include a fitness or nutrition challenge for you to complete. Once completed, you'll post your success on our facebook group wall. You can also post your ideas, questions and

solicit the group for support . We are in this together! Not on facebook? Request a paper form to document your challenge.

In addition to being stronger, fitter and healthier, you'll also have the chance to win a $50 Moms in Motion gift certificate. Each post will earn you a raffle ticket, winner will be drawn at the

Moms In Motion 2012 Kick Off event in January.

Ready to get started!?!?!!

Send an email to momsinmotioneg@gmail.com for the steps to join. Challenge begins THIS Friday, the day after Thanksgiving!

Keep movin' mama,

Wendy Hoag

Moms in Motion

Leadership Director

916-690-7624

Meet the MIMs..and become one!

2011-09-30T13:41:00.001-07:00

Get out your calendar, you won't want to miss this!

Meet & Greet Event

Oct 5th 7pm

The Running Zone

8470 Elk Grove Blvd.

Hear what Moms In Motion is about, learn about our Fall philanthropy, our "Keep movin mama" philosophy

and meet team members.

3 Fall Teams:

Running Team

Core Team

NEW Walking Team

Fall Theme: Empowerment

Raffle for great prizes!

RSVP today! online 916-690-7624 email

Who are the Moms In Motion?

Moms in Motion is a community of wonderful women, ranging in age from mid 20's to mid 60's..or so! Ranging from walkers to experienced marathon runners, women who can hold a 2 min + plank, to those learning basic form.

What we have in common is a desire to keep moving forward, a dedication to health, the support of one another, an experienced leader, a willingness to help a local philanthropy and a positive attitude.

We would LOVE to have YOU on the team!

Feel free to contact team leader, Wendy Hoag with any questions, concerns or needs. See you on the 5th!

Wendy Hoag

momsinmotioneg@gmail.com

916-690-7624

All you have to do is sign up and show up.

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Moms in Motion | Elk Grove Blvd. | Elk Grove | CA | 95757

See the finish line...

2011-07-01T16:09:00.000-07:00

Having a specific goal in mind can help boost your dedication to a workout schedule. Visualizing that finish line may even propel you to get up early to walk before work, or to run while the kids ride bikes to the park. Summer is a great time to pick a local event and start training!

Here are a few nearby events to check into:

July 16 – Davis Moo-nlight Races: 5K, 10K, half marathon and 1 mile kids run.

An evening event, with 4 distances to choose from and a 7 p.m. start time.

July 23 – Eppie's Great Race

Combines running, biking and paddling for a twist on the usual triathlon.

Aug 7 – California Kids Triathlon

Get the whole family involved and sign the kids up for a kid-size triathlon! Or join the parent/child division and complete it together.

Sept 3 – Elk Grove 5k Fun Run

Save a few $$$ and participate in the Elk Grove 5K Fun Run series right here in town! Ten dollars gets you registered and entered to win great raffle prizes.

Oct 2 – Urban Cow 5K, half marathon, relay

Get your mooooo-ve on at the Urban Cow with 3 distances options to fit every runner and walker, with a fun new course this year.

Visit http://zinsli.com/events/sacevents.asp for a full listing of local events. Once you’re hooked and become a repeat event participant, you can even plug in your name to see a history of your results for the local events you’ve completed.

Elk Grove is host to many local training groups to help you prepare, including Moms in Motion. So lace up and put on your sunblock: Summer training season is here!

Blog post originally posted on Elk Grove Patch.

Triathlon season continues....

2011-07-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

Run, Bike and Swim

on the Moms In Motion team!

Runnin for Rhett

Each season, we support a local Philanthropy.

This season, we support Runnin' for Rhett's mission to let
Rhett's story INSPIRE those who feel defeated, UPLIFT those who feel down and ENCOURAGE all to take that first step and MOVE INTO LIFE! And to do something that Rhett couldn't do, as hard as he tried...to run or walk!

Together, we will make a difference.

Dear Wendy,

Carve a little time out to focus on YOU.

We'll help you combine Fitness, Fun and Philanthropy all in one place, setting you up for success.

Join us to train for and successfully complete the all women's Luna Bar sprint triathlon! Swim, bike and run/walk your way to the finish line and be a triathlete! We will support you all the way through with group workouts, a training plan, professional coaching, skills clinics and camaraderie! First time and experienced triathletes welcome.

.5 mile swim - 20 mile bike - 4 mile run

All ages, levels and abilities encouraged. You can do it!

Keep movin mama,

Wendy Hoag and Rachelle Hightower

Summer Kick Off Event

July 16th @ 7:30am

Triathlon Team

Elk Grove Regional Park

**Register early & receive a pre-training plan.

916-690-7624
momsinmotioneg@gmail.com
Online RSVP

About the coach

Rachelle Hightower, USAT Certified Triathlon Coach, owner of High Five Team training, accomplished triathlete, runner, wife, and mom is leading Moms in Motions triathlon teams again this year!

Rachelle has a supportive, encouraging and challenging style to coaching. You'll be inspired to do your best and finish with a smile.

Moms in Motion teams already underway...

Run/Walk Team

Train for a 5K, Half marathon or relay

Core Team

Improve posture, reduce injury and whittle your middle!

__________________________________________________________________

Fitness tips, team news, specials and fun.

Summer teams now forming- Core Team

2011-06-12T13:38:00.000-07:00

Moms in Motion Kick Off

Our Summer season starts 8pm Monday June 13th

Train 8 weeks to tone and strengthen the whole body with a focus on the muscles attached to the spine and pelvis.
Join us for a fun workout with a wonderful group of women.

Summer Core Season
June 13- August 3

Mondays and/or Wednesdays 8pm
Two weekly workouts: Pick one or do them both!
meets at Laguna & Franklin

Exercise, meet other moms, feel stronger and fitter! All team workouts include warm up, resistance training, mat work and stretching.

Join us for our First Workout
New members can try one free!
Monday June 13th OR Wednesday June 15th

Women of all fitness levels encouraged
(workouts are not for kiddos, carve out time for mom!)

Cost: Annual MIM membership fee is $65
Local Team fee: $140 - 2 weekly workouts, $70 - 1 weekly workout

*This team does fill up. Register early to guarantee your spot.

Summer Philanthropy: Runnin for Rhett

Your RSVP helps with planning: momsinmotioneg@gmail.com 916-690-762

Run Walk Team begins June 18th
Triathlon Team begins July 16th

The Warm Up is NOT optional

2011-06-12T13:16:00.000-07:00

Previously posted on Elk Grove Patch June 9, 2011

The length of your warm-up determines how thick the synovial fluid is that acts as a shock absorber for your joints.

How long do I warm up? 3-5 minutes should do it for most of us. Pregnant women need to warm up for a longer period of time because they produce less synovial fluid. If you are expecting, shoot for the full 5 minutes. Skipping your warm up can not only put you at greater risk for injury, but also make your workout less effective.

An effective warm up can be as simple as a march in place, or brisk walk. A full aerobic warm up is great if you're preparing for a cardio and strength workout. Runners and walkers will benefit from moving joints and reminding them of their full range of motion. High knees marching, swinging straight legs forward and back, doing quick calf raises will warm up the legs and hips. The upper body needs some warm up too: swing arms with bent elbows, straight arms and from shoulder to shoulder.

Whatever you chose, get that heart rate up and move those joints before adding in weight, resistance or any jarring movement. Now get out there and move mamas!

sharing

2011-05-31T15:41:00.000-07:00

A client, and friend of mine just started a blog called motherhood faulosity. I read her first post feeling inspired and honored to be part of her journey to fitness. I fell behind and haven't checking in for a few weeks, so I jumped back online today to see what else she's been writing about. I'm blown away!

She's got a nack for writing in a way that makes you feel she's talking just to you, another mom struggling to justify "me-time." And I just can't get enough of a few of her lines...here are a few I'll be quoting:

"I have learned from my very wise uncle that muscle may weigh more than fat, but it takes up a lot less real estate!"

"So get going, re-name your workouts to Me Time. Me time isn't selfish, it is necessary. When you make it productive and worthwhile it is easier to make that step to take it."

"The women were awesome, and all in their own stages of their journey. There were women of every fitness level in that class, and we all sweated together, laughed together, and were inspired together."

Check it out and I bet ya feel inspired and ready to get movin' yourself!
Motherhood Fabulosity Link

Mission statement

2011-05-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

You know how businesses, organizations and college teachers like business statements? Maybe as people, we should also have a mission statement for our lives. I was at a moms time out get together yesterday, and the suggestion was to go back to our roots, our lord, or our parents to remember what we are all about before saying something or making a decision.

The topic reminded me again that we must always remember who we are when we make decisions. As small as how we answer our 9 year olds' question about a pocket knife, to how we decide to accept a job offer. Each of these makes a huge impression on how we show ourselves to the world, and how we feel about ourselves each day.

My reaction to this was to think for a minute about what I do and why I do it. Just to be sure I'm thinking of my roots and what my parents taught me. This of course resulted in a blog...for you to read. =)

6 years ago, I was an at home mom of 2, teaching childbirth education for the local hospital. I truly enjoyed the work, not so much working for someone else, and reality was telling me that my family needed more income. When I decided to buy a fitness franchise, and convinced my husband it was worth the significant financial investment, I had no idea the impact it would have on my family.

Ever since, I’ve been teaching fitness, leading teams, and helping the mamas of Elk Grove to be stronger, fitter, healthier, more confident and great role models for their families. There is no “J-O-B” in the world I’d rather have. Showing up to a workout knowing exactly what each other woman there went through, arranged, negotiated, promised or set up to be there is huge motivation to offer the best fitness program possible. AND the accomplishment and pride I feel when a mom shares her successes with me and with others is priceless.

As the owner of Moms in Motion Elk Grove, I lead the Run/Walk Team and the Core Strength Team, and assist triathlon coach, Rachelle Hightower, with the Triathlon team. What makes Moms in Motion unique is the combination of Fitness, Fun and Philanthropy we bring to ALL levels, ages and abilities of local moms.

This dedication to health and wellness made me stop and pay attention when I heard about a product called Juice Plus+. It simply made perfect sense to me as the perfect addition to my tireless efforts to keep my family active, feed them real food and help them thrive. We add the 17 fruits, veggies and whole grains in Juice Plus+ to our diets each day, and I can't help tell others about it as well. This lead me to become a distributor and open the door to sharing this discovery with more families.

When it comes down to the basics of who I am, this is it folks. Every job I have ever had, from customer service, print sales person, mom, wife, tire delivery person (great story!),project manager, to fitness professional, has been about helping others to succeed. That's what I love, that's what I hope to do for the rest of my days.

What do you do?

Spring Kick Off Event

2011-04-13T14:36:00.000-07:00

Moms in Motion Kick Off

5K/ 10K Run/Walk training begins April 16

Our Spring season starts 7am this Saturday morning to train 8 weeks for a 5K (3.1 miles) or a 10K (6.2 miles)
Join us at Morse Park for a fun workout with a wonderful group of women.

Spring Run walk Season

Saturdays 7-8:30am
April 16- June 5th
meets at various Elk Grove parks

Training for Roseville Memorial Day 5k/10K May 30 &/or

Womens Fitness Festival 5K June 5

Exercise, meet other moms, enjoy the outdoors! All team workouts include warm up, running/walking, resistance training, and stretching. Train to run or walk the distance as a beginner, or do speed work & drills for a personal best.

Join us for our First Workout

New members can check it out for free!
Sat April 16 at 7am
Meet in the lot by the playground on Bella Terra & Fire Poppy.

Runners and walkers of all fitness levels encouraged
(workouts are not for kiddos or strollers, carve out time for mom!)

Cost: Annual MIM membership fee is $65

Local Team fee is $80 for the 8 week Spring Season

Interested in triathlon or core training?

MIM Core Team MIM Sprint Triathlon Team

About Team Leader Wendy Hoag:

I have been helping women build self confidence, strength and health through fitness for the past 6 years. Specializing in pre & postnatal exercise, childrens fitness, mat based pilates, strength/cardio combination's and run/walk training, I'm always up for something new. Currently, I lead Moms in Motion teams, educate families on nutrition with Juice Plus+ and try to keep up with my two active children and husband.

I offer other classes in the area as well:

Am workout for mamas (kids welcome!)

Mon/ Wed 9:30-10:30 am Various Elk Grove Playgrounds

Small group workouts

Grab at least 5 friends, a mat and pick a day & time...

I can taylor a workout to fit your group!

Contact me for pricing and details

Wendy Hoag

momsinmotioneg@gmail.com

916-690-7624

Your RSVP helps with planning

Something fresh and new at MIM

2011-04-11T14:13:00.000-07:00

Spring season is bringing so many new things to Moms in Motion, I just had to blog about it. I don't even know where to start!

Philanthropy is a big one, lets talk about that. Few women these days do not have a personal connection to breast cancer. Mine? My mom is a 6 year survivor, it barely gets more personal than that. Here are a few things we'll be doing to help spread awareness and funds for breast cancer.

- 1. Start today, schedule a mammogram annually as soon as allowed, do monthly exams yourself and encourage others to do so as well

- 2. Register for Race for a Cure- our team website will serve as our fund-raising hub. Event May 7, register, “sleep in” or donate on our team site. (untimed slow walk & timed run Options)

- 3. GNO clothing EVENT! Bring a few items, stay to eat, drink & chat….AND shop! Fri. May 20^th Sylvan. Friends, family, etc encouraged to attend

4. Speaker on breast cancer detection, prevention and education 5/21 sat 8:30am

That's exciting stuff, what else is new you say? Our Core team will add a new spin on the tried and true plank challenge. Whew, this one will challenge our new members and returning members alike!

Run Walk Team is adding more to the program as well. In addition to our gradual increase in milage for those new to the 5K & 10K distances, we'll challenge runners and walkers with more experience as well. Y'all will be doing some exciting repeats, hills, reverses and more to get your speed and endurance up to achieve your personal best this season. Each and every all team workout will also include strength training sessions. By combining cardio with resistance training, we give our metabolism a boost AND keep that fire burning up to 48 hours! So be ready to mix it up.

That's the "whats up" about Fitness and Philanthropy...I guarantee we won't leave out the Fun. This season will round out with a combination of our favorite team breakfast and end or season party. June 5th, mark out your calendar all morning so you can meet the MIMS for breakfast downtown at Capitol Garage. Yummmmmmmy!!!

Not to be missed, we have a "bonus" event this season and great opportunity to help out some young girls reach their fitness goals. Girls on the Run is a local program geared to helping girls in grade school train for a 5K and learn some valuable life lessons along the way. Each season many girls do not have a family member to do the 5K event with them.
THAT's where MIM steps in. We have the opportunity to be running buddies for these girls, or to volunteer to make the event go smoothly. Very exciting stuff.

Can't wait to get movin;...now tell a friend. Spring teams begin this week, the more the merrier in MIM!

Wendy

Love hate relationship

2011-02-15T13:39:00.000-08:00

One of the most unexpected, and interesting things I've discovered about being a fitness instructor is the love hate relationship my clients have with me.

Clients HATE, can't stand and even curse me on facebook when I lead a particulatly tough workout.
The very same clients LOVE me when they fit into a size they haven't fit into for years, or even ever!

For example, this past weekend was a cross training workout for our run/walk team. We did tons of walking lunges, squats, rows, pushups, you name it. Everyone worked hard and got in a terrific workout.

The very next day, a client posts this status update on our facebook page.

Walking lunges = EVIL! I am sore today!

Immediately several other clients chime in about how they cringe when they see stairs or how they are still sore, etc. At first glance, it may seem as if these gals were complaining about the workout but in reality they are so proud to have done all those pushups. The woman talking about EVIL lunges is really thrilled she is improving her hamstring strength and therefore her running ability. She may not say so, but I know it. And I also know that next time we do all those walking lunges, she'll be able to do a few more without cringing.

The room echos with moans and groans when I announce planks are our next exercise in the core team workouts. If I look up, I might even get an "evil eye" from a client, but thank goodness it's always followed by a laugh. One client in particular gives me a hard time after every class about how that was a tough workout, ironically she is 2 dress sizes smaller than she was when she started the workout last Fall...and regularly voices that too.

I've always enjoyed the banter, the back and forth, the challenges, pushing people to work a bit harder, and even the facebook curses make me smile. It's the challenge that creates the result, if it wasn't hard, we wouldn't keep trying and I know that exercise works...you just have to do it.

I know what you're really saying girls keep it coming!

more than exercise

2011-01-08T10:52:00.000-08:00

There is something really special about making exercise a social activity. This morning was our first Winter run walk team workout and wow was it fun!

This group of women has become so much more than a fitness group. It's just an excitement getting ready for a workout, then it slowly builds as cars pull into the parking lot, moms get out with smiles (even though they are bundled up against the cold!), greet me and THEN the magic begins.

Women begin to greet each other, with smiles, hugs, HEY THERE!, glad you're back and ask about each others families, jobs, activities, new hair cut,etc. Its awesome and heart warming.

We begin with a greeting to each other reminding each person how awesome they are and what an important part of the group they are. Then head out for a brisk warm up walk, where the chatter begins to take on a whole new level.

During the run walk women offer each other gloves, tissues, the time and cheers.
I'm so glad to be part of this group!

We all did get in a great workout, filled with a timed mile (or two!) and a partner strength workout. There is no doubt about that. But the secret, the difference that keeps people coming back is the team camaraderie, the excitement, the friendship, the support when you need it and how much fun it is to carve out time for yourself to meet women who were once strangers, and now wonderful friends.

Keep movin mamas!

Christmas Card 2010

2010-12-19T19:38:00.001-08:00

Picture Tree Christmas

Shop Shutterfly for beautiful photo Christmas cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Peer pressure takes over

2010-11-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

After lots of encouragement from my friends and fellow MIMs, I finally spent the $27.99 to purchase the photo of myself jumping over fire, (yup fire!) at the Warrior Dash. I am notoriously cheap and may not have done so otherwise, but finally decided it was worth it.
Women tend to work very hard without giving credit to themselves. Especially when it comes to their athletic abilities, always giving an excuse, rarely giving credit where credit is due. You know what I mean..."Oh I could never run, I only walk." Or, "I can't keep up with her, she's way too fast." "a 10k, forget it, how far is that?!?"

And then, we prove ourselves wrong and do the things we didn't think we could. I have seen women begin with MIM as walkers, cruising along at a comfortable, slow, relaxed pace, turn into some of our most competitive runners! Women who couldn't run more than a few feet, run entire 5K's in just a few seasons! Women who came to MIM planning to walk their first 5K, and winding up completing a triathlon the next season. You are making it happen, toot your own horn now and then. Even if it's as small as calling yourself a runner.
Do you get out there and run (there is no pace required) several times a week? By golly, you ARE a runner! Tell other people that and you may even begin to believe it yourself and commit more to your running.

So, I decided that if I'm going to do an event where I jump over fire, then I should do what I say and buy the darn thing to show off. So be ready to see lots of this silly, fun, crazy photo, cause I'm posting it all over the place.

What are you proud of?

The Warrior...What?!?!?

2010-11-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a personal victory, and I must share with you why. Ted and I completed an event called the Warrior Dash...together!
It is a 3.5 mile run with at least 7 obstacles along the way. Before MIM, I would never have even considered participating in an event like this with my husband.
3.5 miles seemed like such a FAR way to run, my husband didn't run at all and worked out irregularly and I couldn't have imagined having the strength to climb up cargo nets, jump over walls or complete the other challenges.
I kid you not, the first one was a row of 4 beat up old cars we had to climb, jump, crawl or somehow get over!
MIM and my fitness career has truly changed all of that for me. I transitioned from a walker to a runner, corrected an injury with help from MIM sponsors & members, added more strength and core training and am motivated each day by the women around me doing the same things.
About the same time as I ran my 2nd 5K with MIM in '08 ( yup, running the whole thing!) and improving my time, my husband starting going to the gym more often....and started running. He'd not done this partly due to some foot issues, work and life style. His career in pharmaceutical had also "enlightened" him on the advantages of avoiding the high blood pressure issues running in his family. One morning, he even told a mutual friend that he was going to the gym because he had to keep up with me.
Since then, we have a friendly rivalry going, keep tabs on each others workouts, have run together with the kids on bikes, lift together at the gym and really make an effort to make our family trips and weekends include active activities. I also have to try and keep up with him!
So doing this crazy warrior dash with Ted was more than just a weekend event, I really felt it was another chapter in our lives together, and for me as a mom, wife and woman.
I share this with you because I want you to know that others have the same struggles with fitness as you do, that you are an Excellent role model to your whole family and that the support you give and receive with MIM can make the difference.

Please share your own story on this blog, the MIM facebook page, meetup page or any outlet you are comfortable with. It will give you strength and inspire others.

Let's keep movin together mamas!
Wendy

P.S. There was ALOT of mud involved too...

Here comes the MIM fitness challenge!

2010-09-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Last night at our core strength team workout, I was beside myself!
One mom, who shall remain nameless unless one of you call her out or she does so herself, was so excited to show everyone how she now has definition in her shoulders. OOOOo, Ahhhh! That sparked another mom to point out how her biceps just showed up. More oooo, ahhhhs.
This morning, a past client, posted on facebook how someone at the gym called her the "Amazing Push up girl!" and thanked me for getting her to do pushups the past few years.
Last Saturday, a mom who was entirely unsure about committing to a relay team for Urban cow a month ago, completed 5.6 miles!

Not only do I LOVE being around a fun, supportive group of women, but I LOVE seeing clients earn their rewards. Results may at first seem vain, but I believe they are evidence of women building self confidence. And that is something, I LOVE to be part of.

This is why I'm adding in a fitness challenge to our Fall Moms in Motion season.
Both Strength, core team members and run/walk team members will participate. We'll have 8 weeks to build strength, endurance, improve our nutrition and make a commitment to ourselves to earn measurable results.

Fitness challenges are sooo much fun! Not only does it give you a reasonable time period to focus on a goal, but renews your dedication to fitness, allows another opportunity to support your teammates, educates us all on the WHYs of exercise and makes us think about what we are eating.

Part of the challenge will be making healthy changes in our nutrition. Juice Plus+ will sponsor, by providing prizes to all who complete the challenge! Watch for more on this.

So let's get started! Let me know you're in, RSVP for the info meeting on 10/12, bring a few friends, and here we go.

times are a changing

2010-08-19T14:20:00.000-07:00

This has been one of the stranger months of my life. Just in an unsettled, change brewing, new schedule kind of way. I recently sold my StrollerFit business of 5 years off to two wonderful local women. Although I'm excited about the prospect of what they will be able to do for local moms with little ones it's left me adjusting to a totally new schedule. No morning classes to teach, I've actually been able to take a few at the gym.
That has lead me to discover that I'm a horrible participant in fitness classes now. Always critiquing the instructor, she didn't warm us up much, or hey lady why aren't you walking around cueing and correcting form, and my pet peeve, 2 stretches...really an hour of strength exercise and we only need 2 stretches?!
The wonderful part about the change is that I really do feel I'm able to put my full effort, focus and best into one fitness avenue rather than balancing two businesses. I now have time to add speed workouts the more experienced members need to get to the next level, I'm able to offer strength/core classes that are so important in preventing injury for runners and walkers and I'm able to start thinking of some fun ways to connect the families of this wonderful group of women.
I have also discovered that my Juice Plus+ business is much more than I originally expected. It turns out, I love teaching people about nutrition too! since May, I have learned so much from others at wellness presentations, listening to the great line of Juice Plus+ educational DVD's and great conference calls. I've discovered that this is another avenue that allows me to directly help others, but simply sharing what I've learned and have a passion for.
It truly doesn't get much better than that....so I guess I better get back to work before the kids get our of school. =)

I look forward to talking to YOU soon about Juice Plus+, Moms in Motion or all the crazy things our kids do.

In health,
Wendy Hoag

Moms in Motion getting Fit to Give

2010-08-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

Moms in Motion Getting Fit to Give

Wendy Hoag

Moms looking for a place to focus on fitness, make new friends and give back to their communities are flocking to a new fitness trend called Moms In Motion. Founded by teacher, triathlete and mom Jamie Allison in 1999, the company was designed to bring women together in a constructive, meaningful way. “Women—especially moms—often find themselves overwhelmed with multiple roles, and limited time for themselves,” Allison explains. “As a new mom myself, I wanted a place where I could connect with other women in a positive way and who could understand what it meant to be a mom and still get to practice.” With over 8,000 members, and teams in 26 states and 8 countries, Jamie has tapped into a much needed, unique niche.

With that goal in mind, Moms In Motion was born. Each group trains for a specific event (“We’re all about the carrot,” says Allison) and chooses a charity to support. Leaders take members through a “season”, building towards a culminating event. At the same time the team selects a charity to support, deepening the overall experience.

Moms In Motion draws women of all ages and abilities, women who have recovered from life-threatening illness, women who have never been active before, past athletes, women looking for a new challenge, women who want to address weight issues, and women who just want to make new friends. “For thousands of women, Moms In Motion is the highlight of their week,” says Allison.

Here in Elk Grove,Ca, Moms In Motion has been inspiring moms to get moving for two years. Lead by Wendy Hoag, local director, group fitness instructor, marathon racewalker, triathlete and mom of two, a run/walk team and a strength/core team run year-round. Triathlon coach, personal trainer and mom of two, Rachelle Hightower, leads triathlon teams in the Spring and Summer. “Seeing the community of Elk Grove embrace the fun, fitness and philanthropy of Moms in Motion is very fulfilling.” says Hoag. “Giving back to many local charities in so many ways makes me proud to be part of it all.”

To find out more about Moms In Motion, please visit www.momsinmotion.com

Challenge your balance

2010-07-30T15:28:00.000-07:00

Loved this article on balance so much, I wanted to share it with you!

Challenge Your Balance

Let’s face it… everything these days is about balance… from diets to exercise… right down to balancing opposing muscle groups. But the type of balance we’ll discuss in this article is more fundamental. It’s the human function we depend on every day of our lives to get out of bed, to walk, or to play just about any sport – the ability to control your body as it moves through space. Simply defined, it's the ability to sustain your equilibrium (not fall over) when you're either stationary or moving.

To maintain balance, you depend on three types of sensory information. The position of your head is perceived by an apparatus in your inner ear. The position of your body is perceived by the visual input of your eyes, which tells you about your environment, and the sensors in your skin, muscles, joints and tendons, which "sense" the position of all of your body's parts in space (proprioception). When you close your eyes and lift your arm, and you know which way your hand is turned, that's proprioception; it's that internal sense of where you are in space.

Let's say you decide to hike the beautiful hills around Santa Barbara. In the beginning you'd spend a lot of time watching the foot path, just to keep from falling. But after awhile, the trail would require very little of your attention because you'd learn to adjust to the terrain by the "feel" of your feet, thereby increasing your balance through proprioception.

To test your balance, try standing on one leg for 30 seconds and then switch and try it on the other leg. You'll probably find that you're better at balancing on one leg and not the other. Then, to recreate the balance required when you encounter an unstable surface, like lumpy grass, try standing on one leg again, but this time use a soft surface such as a foam pad or balance disc. To further spice up the challenge, try performing both of these exercises with your eyes closed. As this sequence suggests, balance training is progressive; once you're able to maintain stability, new challenges are needed to further adapt.

Movements that take place on one leg at a time, like walking, running and rollerblading, involve constantly losing your balance and then regaining it again. The quicker you can regain it, the safer the movement becomes. If you watch inline skaters, you'll notice that the better skaters appear as though they never lose their balance, when in fact, they are constantly losing their balance; they just regain it so quickly that no one notices. Those who are cruising along gracefully have learned to maintain their balance while rapidly responding to the changes in their environment, which is the key to success in all of the activities of daily life and sports...

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Article by Mikki Reilly, BA, MFS, of FitnessTransform. Visit her web site, www.fitnesstransform.com for the most up-to-date news, information and tips that will help you transform your health, fitness and overall quality of life.

movin mamas

2010-07-19T23:42:00.001-07:00

After two exciting info meetings, the summer Moms in Motion teams are gearing up to get movin!

Several moms are signed up to do their first half marathon, or their first 5K! Many are coming back for more and adding one more notch to their belts.

Each season, I love to see returning faces eager to get going again and m
aking new goals for themselves. Its just as exciting to see how each person looks to her fellow mims to help that person reach their goals as well. Such a wonderful group to be part of, and to be supported by.

This season, it's equally inspiring to think of ways to support the philanthropy of the summer, cases for cheer. They are an organization,started by a little girl and her mom, that sews pillow cases for local cancer patients. What a difference a pillow case can make. And all we have to do is help sew, spread the word and invite others to do the same. OOOO and don't miss the beauty for a cause event on August 14th or the sewing event on August 12th. See details and RSVP for both on our MIM meetup group calendar.

What's stopping you mama? There is still space on both the Strength, core and More team (starting up in August) AND the Run/Walk team starting up this Saturday.

Call 916-690-7624 or email me directly for info today, or invite a friend. The more the merrier is our motto!

Moms In Motion Summer Team

2010-07-01T10:19:00.001-07:00

We’re a supportive group of women, training together for a culminating event, helping out a local charity and having a great time along the way.

Info Meetings:

Wed July 14^th

10:30am Elk Grove Park

Thurs July 15^th

7pm Running Zone

Summer Teams:

Strength, Core & More Team

Run/Walk Team

Philanthropy:

Cases For Cheer

RSVP Today:

www.momsinmotion.com 916-690-7624

Moms in Motion Triathlon team

2010-05-28T15:01:00.000-07:00

Calling all Women!!!

We want you on our team! We’re a women’s health and fitness community based on Fun, Fitness and Philanthropy. All ages and abilities follow a fitness program that ends with a culminating event while supporting a local charity.

ORIENTATION
June 15th @ 7pm @ The Running Zone

EVENT
Luna Bar Women’s Triathlon Festival

PHILANTHROPY
Running for Rhett

*Train for your first or your best triathlon!

916-690-7624 www.momsinmotion.com

Baby Boot Camp AND StrollerFit!

2010-05-17T14:27:00.001-07:00

Baby Boot Camp announced this month that it has acquired StrollerFit, Inc. the longest-running mom-and-baby franchise in the country.

By uniting two of the nation's top stroller fitness programs, Baby Boot Camp will provide moms across the country greater access to safe and effective fitness programs. Baby Boot Camp will incorporate the most successful components of each organization over the next three months to further strengthen all of its franchise owners in the increasingly competitive fitness market.

Read the Full press release online.

This is a very excited announcement for me, my clients and all future clients. Baby Boot camp has many things to add to all the great programs that StrollerFit currently offers. I'm excited to be part of the Transition summit next weekend in Sarasota Florida at Baby Boot Camp head quarters. Owners from both companies will come together to combine the best of both! Should be exciting to hear and help plan on how the two premier mama fitness programs will better serve local moms.

Watch for more from me soon.

Free class for moms groups

2010-05-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

Belong to a moms group?

This is a great way to get your members out and active together. Kids are included in the fun, “bigger” kids are welcome to ride bikes, scooters or walk along with us.

StrollerFit is functional exercise – your body gets strong, lean and energized as you perform highly effective exercises targeting your mommymuscles™ (the muscles used and abused during labor, delivery and the postpartum, day to day care of your children). Your children are part of the action with singing, counting, toe tickling and lots of silliness!

Bring any stable stroller, water for yourself and a mat/blanket for core work at the end of class.

RSVP today. Space limited.
Online: http://sahm.meetup.com/1562/calendar/13510183/
Call: 916--690-7624

See ya there!

The 10 secrets of StrollerFit

2010-03-12T14:17:00.000-08:00

1. It's been documented in several articles and studies. When you push a stroller, you are burning more calories than walking alone. Us moms are always looking for a way to multi task and StrollerFit does this.

One article claims walking at a brisk pace can burn 100 calories, a brisk walk with a stroller bumps that up to 180 calories! Not only will you be able to squeeze in that exercise, but you'll also be more efficient while doing it. ediets Diet & Fitness blog

2. Walking with a stroller is not the only secret weapon of StrollerFit. Many of our exercises use resistance bands and tubes. The principle behind these is strengthening the muscle on the lengthening phase, much like pilates. This creates long, lean sexy muscles.

3. The weighted mommymuscle bar combines strength and resistance into one exercise. Using the muscle in both directions, increasing muscle strength. Muscle burns more calories than fat..so more muscle is good.

4. Your body burns calories while you are doing a cardiovascular exercise, like a brisk stroller walk. Do a StrollerFit class adding resistance training to that cardio and you'll keep burning calories for up to 48 hours after you're done.

5. No one has ever asked me why we sing in StrollerFit, or why I'm always encouraging moms to sing louder. Seems obvious right? Nice loud singing entertains our kiddos, what baby doesn't enjoy Ring around the Rosy, or what toddler doesn't like picking the farm animal for Old McDonald? True, but there is a bonus reason. When you sing, your uptake of oxygen increases. Making the effort of singing while exercising even more challenging AND building cardiovascular fitness. AHHH HAAA!

6. Adding imbalance to our exercises with the mommymuscle ball, or by doing them on one foot engages the core muscles, improves the proprioception sense and challenges the body even more. Balance is also a sense that will decrease overtime if we don't continue to challenge it. Weight bearing, gravity based activities increase our sense of balance and keep it from diminishing as we age.

7. Combining weight, resistance and imbalance really bumps up the calorie burn and effectiveness of the workout as a whole. Making the most of the short time moms have to exercise each day.

8. Above all, I believe the greatest part of the mommymuscle theory used in StrollerFit is that it allows a new mom who is also new to exercise to work at her own level, while working out right next to a mom who has exercised her whole life and is also being challenged. Now that is an all levels class.

9. The social advantages of working out with other moms are obvious. We love being in the company of others who understand we may need to stop to explain to our toddler why she can't hit her sister, or stop to nurse a baby who woke up late and is off schedule. It's also just fun to be around other moms in general.

10. Last but not least, I bribe the kids. Stickers, fun songs, tickling feet...it's all to get them to ask you "mom, are we going to StrollerFit today?" No not really, I just adore kiddos, but it's an advantage for sure.

So, the secrets have now been revealed. You now know why you were able to go from 34 squats to 48 in an 8 week time period, why your pants fit and why you're now able to unload the dishwasher while balancing your toddler on your hip without falling over.

See YOU in class mamas!

The warm up is not optional

2010-03-04T14:35:00.000-08:00

The length of your warm-up determines how thick the synovial fluid is that acts as a shock absorber for your joints.

How long do I warm up? 3-5 minutes should do it for most of us. Pregnant women need to warm up for a longer period of time because they produce less synovial fluid. If you are expecting, shoot for the full 5 minutes. Skipping your warm up can not only put you at greater risk for injury, but also make your workout less effective.

An effective warm up can be as simple as a march in place, or brisk walk. A full aerobic warm up is great if you're preparing for a cardio and strength workout such as StrollerFit. Runners and walkers will benefit from moving joints and reminding them of their full range of motion. High knees marching, swinging straight legs forward and back, doing quick calf raises will warm up the legs and hips. The upper body needs some warm up too: swing arms with bent elbows, straight arms and from shoulder to shoulder.

Whatever you chose, get that heart rate up and move those joints before adding in weight, resistance or any jarring movement. Now get out there and move mamas!

A story

2010-03-02T13:50:00.000-08:00

I grew up with a great, I mean really great, salesman as a father. I inherited his outward personality, willingness to talk to anyone and always thought that would take me into a sales career. Well, I tried it in the printing field and quickly decided it wasn't for me.

Fast forward to now, and here I am in sales again. But this time, I don't have to sell anything. I offer services that work, that others love and tell friends about. It's just more of a putting information out there and seeing who is looking for what you offer.

So the ironic thing is that I still feel like I'm selling when I talk to friends about what I do. On one hand, I truely whole heartedly believe in what I do and think every woman I meet can benefit from StrollerFit, restore the core or moms in motion...or all three. Still, it's that akward spot where you want to tell your friends but you don't want to be the one always pushing your service either. Ya know?

It just so happens a good friend of mine had a baby nearly 2 years ago now. Along with our shower gift I gave her a gift certificate for StrollerFit. Not wanting to be pushy, but wanting her to try it if she was interested. Turns out it wasn't a good fit for her schedule,life and all that.

However, she did join Moms in Motion this year after helping me set up a demo class for her moms group. I was tickled pink to have a friend join, and excited to be part of helping her reach her goals. When I checked email this morning, there was a notice that my friend had posted on my facebook page. It's nearly impossible to say how happy, excited, proud and thrilled the service I offer is working for her!!! YA HOOOOOO! It's so wonderful to hear the good news and I'm so happy she's sharing with everyone. =)

Here's the post:
"I just did something I've NEVER done before EVER!! I ran a mile without stopping to walk. Now I know that sounds silly to most people, but for me it's a BIG deal!! And I wanted to say thank you to you........without MIM and YOU I would have never had the motivation to run!! THANKS for helping me get ME back and do something for myself!" - Tiffany Pappas

Whittle Your Middle

2010-02-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

Ever hear the phrase "everything but the kitchen sink?"
Well this time it applies to fitness classes instead of a recipe. Lets toss in all the components moms love, ab fat blasting cardio, kids if they are stroller riders, lots of silly-ness and the restore the core exercises to tighten up that midsection.
Leigh Hobson down in Lodi invented this idea, and I think it's so great we're giving it a whirl in Elk Grove.

So pack the kids in the stroller, or leave them at home....and we'll see ya March 8th.

RSVP by email, on facebook or even on meetup, just let us know you're coming!

Celebration!

2010-02-12T14:16:00.000-08:00

It's time to celebrate another mama success story.

Stephanie just reported loosing all of her pregnancy weight (over the "recommended" weight gain but we don't share numbers) with 3 months of regular restore the core classes combined with smart food choices. She emailed me this week with this great news "I've got back to my pre-preg. weight, fit into all my old clothes and incorporate a lot of the exercises during my lunchtime workouts."

Yahhoooo! You go mama.

Nutrition for runners and walkers

2010-02-11T11:15:00.000-08:00

A very smart friend of mine, and fellow Moms in motion team leader just shared this article with me. It's such great, straight forward, real information that I just had to share it with all of you. Enjoy!

Top Ten Nutrition Tips for a Spring Half or Full Marathon!

Spring will finally be here soon! Are you gearing up for a Spring half or full marathon? Maybe it’s your first, or just one of many and you’re hoping for a PR. If you’ve been preparing for the race by following a training plan, make sure your nutrition plan is on target too. Without a good nutrition plan, the perfect training schedule becomes ineffective. As a Sports Dietitian, I’ve come up with my top ten nutrition tips to help YOU have a successful Spring half or full marathon!

1. Eat a healthy diet to begin with! Choose a mix of healthy carbs; fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with lean meats and fish, low-fat soy or dairy products, and “healthy” fats like olive and canola oil, and omega-3 fatty acids in salmon, walnuts, and flax-seed. Include foods with plenty of fiber and go easy on the junk-food, or what I call “wasted-calories”, those foods high in sugar and unhealthy saturated or trans fats.

2. Drink plenty of fluids every day! Sometimes it’s difficult to keep up with hydration, especially after long, hard workouts. A lot of athletes simply do not drink enough during the day. When it’s not quite hot outside yet, it is often overlooked. A good rule of thumb; straw-colored urine.

3. Always practice your nutrition plan prior to your race. Remember at race pace things may not agree with you the same as they do during a social run with friends. Go out for a fast-paced interval or tempo run and try a sports gel, sport beans, or carbohydrate-containing sports drink or practice nutrition in a shorter distance race. You’ll need 30-60 grams of carbohydrates per hour, depending on your size. This translates to 120-240 calories or roughly a 16 oz. sports drink and one sports gel or sports bean pack (~200 calories). Find out what nutrition will be available on the course to try before hand to see if you like it and you can tolerate it. Only use what works in training on race day! If you’re a heavy sweater, sodium may be a necessary nutrient for you. Again, practice in training.

4. Choose foods carefully the day or two before a race. No need to carbo load for a half marathon if it will take less than two hours to complete. You’ll have enough glycogen (storage form of glucose) for most of the race. For a marathon or for someone that may take longer in the half, however, carbo-loading is effective and needed! Incorporate plenty of healthy carbs in the day or two before the race, making lunch your larger meal the day before. Watch the fiber content, gas-forming vegetables, or any unusual foods during this time also (may be a recipe for GI distress!).

5. Never, ever, try any new food or beverage on race day! Simply having an apple or regular milk versus your usual soy milk in your morning Chai tea, can cause some GI distress, especially combined with pre-race jitters. If you had to travel to the race, you should plan to bring something from home or plan breakfast the night before. This should be something you have had before morning workouts at home.

6. Have a good breakfast. This should consist of some carbs and a small amount of protein but low in fat for optimal digestion. Some suggestions would include; a bagel with peanut butter and a banana, cereal with fruit and milk, oatmeal with raisins and a yogurt. Typically, you’ll want to consume about 400-600 calories at least, again, depending on your size and what you’re used to. You’ll also want to be well hydrated before the race which would include drinking ~two to three cups of fluid at least two to three hours prior to the race. Coffee is fine if that’s your norm, and may provide added benefits during the race. If you’re not used to eating in the morning, try drinking your calories in the form of juice or a sports drink. Something is always better than nothing.

7. Bring something to eat and drink to the race. If you’ve had to get up early to travel to the race, it may be four hours before race start from the time you got up. An hour or two before your race start, you may want to consume ~100-200 calories to top of your glycogen. Pre-race carbohydrate amount does vary- some individuals are sensitive to glucose fluctuations. Also, drink another cup of water an hour or two before the race. Pre-race nerves can make your mouth dry too. Some races do have food set up prior to the race but don’t take that for granted, bring a nutrition or cereal bar, fruit, jelly sandwich, or sip on a sports drink.

8. Don’t forget to bring your nutrition to the race. If you are using your own nutrition vs. what the race has available set it out the night before along with your race number, shoes, timing chip, etc.

9. Drink enough fluids during the race. Fluids are the most crucial nutrition component during any race. It’s easy to forget to drink when it’s a chilly Spring morning or you’re caught up in the excitement of the race. Drink before you’re thirsty. More than just 2% body water loss can lead to heat illness and fatigue. Old recommendations were to drink ~6- 12 ounces every 15-20 minutes but ACSM now recommends a customized plan considering sweat rate and composition, duration of race, clothing, and environment.

10. Lastly, ensure optimal recovery with food and fluids. When you are finished with your race, your first priority should be hydration and replacement of electrolytes. Even if you think you drank plenty on the course, drink a bottle or two of water or sports drink to ensure hydration and replace lost electrolytes, especially if it’s a warm Spring day. Beer isn’t the best fluid for hydration but I’ve been known to celebrate with Sam or Bud after a race, just make sure you drink water first. It’s best to start consuming food for recovery within 15-30 minutes to replenish glycogen stores (carbohydrate) and to aid in repair of damaged muscle tissue (protein) in a 4:1 ratio. For every 400 calories in carbs, eat 100 calories in protein. Examples include; a 16 oz. glass of chocolate milk, yogurt smoothie, turkey sandwich, or a good mix of carbs and protein at the post-race party. Continue to replenish with food every two hours during the day.

Okay, there you have it; my top ten nutrition tips (and a few bonus tips in there!). If you practice these tips, it’ll be one less thing to worry about on race day, and you’ll be on your way to having a successful Spring half or full marathon. More importantly, have fun and enjoy the race!

Deb Iovoli, MS,RD,CSSD,CDN
Deb is a Sports Dietitian in Rochester N.Y., adjunct at Monroe Community College as well as Rochester Moms in Motion Team Leader. She enjoys helping athletes become successful with food choices, body weight and composition, for optimal health and performance!

Injury proof that body!

2010-01-26T13:43:00.000-08:00

After hearing about yet another friend with a back injury from doing a normal, every day task I felt compelled to say something. One of the perks of bearing our children is alot of stretching, loosening and sagging in many parts of the body...including the abdomen and core. Vaginal delivery or cesarean..same result in this department ladies. I know, I know, this is not something any of us need to be told. We know it! We feel it! We live it!

So the news is this, you CAN do something about it. I quote, "Retraining the core muscles will allow a mom to move through her life with lower risk of injury to her back, less muscular fatigue, less energy loss and greater self esteem." Straight from the restore the core instructor manual. Every single week, someone tells me or emails me about their personal experiences as they build core strength. It doesn't always sound like the quote, but it always is a version of it. "I find myself sitting up taller in the car." "My low back doesn't ache anymore after 30 minutes or MORE of rocking the baby in the middle of the night." " I bought a new pair of pants yesterday... a size smaller than I wore before having my child." "I can run without fear of peeing my pants." Don't be alarmed, these are actual quotes from actual moms. How could I make this stuff up if I wanted to?

What is my core? you might ask. Well, your core consists of all the muscles that attach to your spine and pelvis. These include abs, back, legs, hips and more. By training or retraining all of these muscles to balance each other out and work together you build a strong core. A woman with a strong core will actually engage her core muscles before moving her arms and legs. For example, if you have to reach across your body to quickly catch a bouncing ball (or sprinting 2 year old) while twisting you are much less likely to injure yourself if you have engaged all the core muscles first. Ha ha! Saved from days of ibuprofen, ice, walking slowly and explaining to a child why you can't roller skate with her today.

The restore the core format does just this. A hundred sit ups a day will train your rectus abdominus (the "six pack" muscles down the front of your body) but it will not strengthen your back, obliques or hip flexors that can save you from injury. In each class, we strengthen the core muscles one by one and increase the challenge over time. And there is hope for those of us who have "babies" who are not babies anymore. No matter how long ago you had your children, you'll benefit from this class.

Come try it! Your first class is free. www.strollerfit.com

Making exercise a habit...not a daily decision

2010-01-13T12:48:00.001-08:00

10 ways to make Exercise a Habit

Your best bet for health is to start a lifelong fitness habit. But you may find yourself breaking that habit unless you find ways to keep it fun, fresh, and energizing. So, what gets in the way of lifelong fitness? Most people cite boredom, lack of time, and no motivation as reasons why they stop working out. Here, we've got ten great tips for making exercise a habit you'll never want to break.

Make it fun. You're more likely to exercise if it's enjoyable. Choose sports you love or want to learn. Work out with friends. Blast your favorite music.

Put your health first. Take yourself off the bottom of your to-do list and give your health the #1 position it deserves. Making exercise a habit means you'll be around longer for all the people who depend on you. This is important when you are a mom, we put everyone before ourselves and then our health suffers.

Save the date. Make a daily appointment with yourself for fitness. Treating exercise like you would a business meeting, dinner date, or medical appointment will help you take it seriously. (My StrollerFit workouts are in the calendar and I try not to make appointments during them, so as not to miss a workout or the other moms!!!)
Mix it up. Nobody wants to do the same old thing every day. Cross train or engage in multiple sports or exercises to keep your mind and body interested. (which we do everyday in StrollerFit)
Keep a diary. Write down what you did, or didn't do for fitness each day, and review it weekly. If you find you're skipping certain days or taking shortcuts, evaluate what might be standing in your way. Were you too busy, tired, or bored? Consider more convenient times of day or locations for exercise.

Pick the right time. Most people who successfully make exercise a habit work out out either first thing in the morning or on their way home from work before other commitments and responsibilities take over their schedule.

I thought these were great tips for my StrollerFit moms as we begin the Mommymuscle challenge

Wow how time flies!

2010-01-11T16:50:00.000-08:00

Is it true? Was it really mid December when I last posted on my blog? Geez, how time flies when you're having fun.

Preparing for the Moms In Motion 2010 kick off party this Thursday has kept me busy, busy this last week. Not to mention planning the mommymuscle challenge that starts next Monday! wowza, there is some excitement going on these days.

Elk Grove mamas, really, put aside the excused and get moving. There are so many options for exercise in our lovely little town! Can't wait to help you reach your goals, feel better as a woman, mom and wifey. See you soon.

Moms in Motion 2010 Kick Off Party

2009-12-18T14:41:00.000-08:00

Calling all Women!!!
Ever wanted to complete a
5K, 10K, half marathon or triathlon?

Let's start the year right!

2010 KICK OFF PARTY
Jan 14th 7pm

Location: The Running Zone

Curious about the flower power phenomenon? Returning members ready to get moving again? Ready to try something new?

Come hear what Moms in Motion will be doing this year! All ages and abilities welcome. Meet the new team leaders, register for Winter Teams and have a great time with new and old friends.

Sponsors will also be there, including the Running Zone, mommymuscle and Alyson Viducich Photography.

Food? Yep, we'll even have food!

Join one or more of our three upcoming teams today:

5K & 10K Run/walk Winter Team
Half Marathon Winter Team
Triathlon Spring Team

RSVP today!
Call 916-690-7624
Email me
Visit us online

mommymuscle challenge

2009-12-18T14:37:00.000-08:00

Are you ready to look and feel like a 10 in 2010?
the mommymuscle® challenge is about RESULTS!
The mommymuscle® challenge is an 8 week challenge structured to deliver
MEASUREABLE CHANGE.

Each participating franchise will measure and progress and re-measure all of the following:
Aerobic Fitness, Core Strength, Flexibilty, Agility, Muscular Strength
Instructors will then lead 8 weeks of classes designed to IMPROVE your ability in each of the areas measured. We're ready to welcome & challenge moms whose children are newborns OR adults!
At the end of the 8 weeks, we re-measure an you get to see firsthand just how FIT & FABULOUS you are!

Program begins January 18th.
$210 (includes 8 weeks unlimited classes & deluxe equipment package) Current members = FREE

Register today!
916-690-7624

#7 & #8

2009-12-17T22:35:00.000-08:00

Two weeks, Two days left in 2009. Regardless of how you feel about the year coming to an end surely brining in 2010 in a healthy body must be a good thing. Couple more reasons to stick with a fitness routine, come to restore the core and Strollerfit or just move that body? Here ya go!

7) Money saver! Exercise throughout the holiday season and you won’t be buying a bigger clothing size in Jan!

8) Time saver – low on time? Already too many places to go this holiday season? Exercise for 3 hours a week and you may just avoid the doctor’s office all together this holiday season!

Christmas Letters

2009-12-17T22:23:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week a client of several years, handed me a Christmas card. Of course, I'm honored to receive anything from someones' family but this was extra special.

Inside was an adorable photo, card and letter. The letter was written to tell family and friends about their year. Just a few paragraphs down was a mention of how the mom was keeping in shape and finding a wonderful social network. Awesome! That made my day. But then when I realized that the husband was the person writing the letter...I nearly fell over.

I truly believe StrollerFit is so much more than just a fitness class. It’s self confidence, role modeling for our children a social outlet and can be great for our marriages too. =) It’s just heart touching to see that another family is experiencing all of that and sharing with their nearest and dearest.

It's a very good day. Merry Christmas!

2009-12-10T12:55:00.001-08:00

This morning, myself and some mamas from StrollerFit headed over to our local hospital for a Breakfast, Nutrition talk and playdate. It was not only fun to see mamas outside of classes, but the information presented was wonderful. Real world stuff, with time for discussion about how we might actually do these things.

I love that our local hospital does this type of community outreach! Informative, educational, and healthy. Already thinking of other topics for future events. Have ideas? Send them my way! We have access to their full range of dietitians, doctors and specialists. Yippee!

Here are a few of the survival tips that Yau Ming Ng, MS, RD presented to us:

RDs Weigh In
10 Tips for Healthy Holiday Survival
(Holiday Nutrition) Permanent link

With Halloween candy still lingering around the house or office, the recent Thanksgiving feast and multiple social occasions to celebrate the entire holiday season, this can be a very challenging time of year to stay on track with health goals. Contrary to popular belief, the average holiday weight gain is about 1-2 lbs, but we tend to keep it on and accumulate more with each passing year. It’s really not that hard to do when you consider that it only takes an extra 250 calories/day to lead to a ½ pound gain by the end of the week. You’ve worked so hard this year to get healthy and lose or maintain your weight so let’s keep it up this holiday season- here’s how:

1. Never arrive to your social function with a big appetite. Have a small snack ahead of time to take off the edge. Don’t skip a meal or save up your calories- this will encourage over eating. Healthy snacks to have on hand: raw veggies, low fat yogurts, low fat cheese, whole grain crackers…

2. Incorporate daily moderate physical activity. Even doing 2 -15 minute walks each day can make a difference by burning about 200 calories total. This is especially easy to do when holiday shopping! If you can’t get to a gym, try a pedometer and gradually increase your steps each day- 10,000 steps/day = 5 miles

3. Factor in Alcohol. A martini contains about 275 calories, and 1 glass of wine has about 150 calories. Also watch out for all of the calories you might consume while you drink. Try substituting with a glass of sparkling water in between. Moderation for men is no more than 2 drinks per day and no more than 1 drink per day for women (wine: 5 oz, beer: 12 oz, liquor: 1.5 oz)

Read the other 7 online at: http://eatright.org/Media/Blog.aspx?id=4294967371&blogid=269

More reasons to stick with the fitness routine!

2009-12-10T08:35:00.000-08:00

#5 - Happy hormone producer- exercise increases the amount of serotonin in our system which elevates our mood and helps us sleep better

#6- Carbohydrate conserver - more fit you become the less carbohydrate you expend during exercise which means you have more energy for all those things you wish you had the energy to do!

Wow! That exercise is powerful stuff! Get movin' today mamas!

Reduce risk of disease

2009-12-02T16:17:00.000-08:00

Your next Fitness takes no holiday tidbit is:

#4 - Fat burner! Proper exercise burns fat, lowering your risk of many diseases and conditions.

Here's a great article about just that subject.

Simple Ways to Live a Healthy Lifestyle

By Paige Waehner, About.com Guide

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
You hear a lot about living a healthy lifestyle, but what does that mean? In general, a healthy person doesn't smoke, is at a healthy weight, eats healthy and exercises. Sounds simple, doesn't it?

The trick to healthy living is making small changes...taking more steps, adding fruit to your cereal, having an extra glass of water...these are just a few ways you can start living healthy without drastic changes.

Exercise

One of the biggest problems in America today is lack of activity. We know it's good for us but avoid it like the plague either because we're used to being sedentary or afraid that exercise has to be vigorous to be worth our time. The truth is, movement is movement and the more you do, the healthier you'll be. Even moderate activities like chores, gardening and walking can make a difference.

Just adding a little movement to your life can:

* Reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes
* Improve joint stability
* Increase and improve range of movement
* Help maintain flexibility as you age
* Maintain bone mass
* Prevent osteoporosis and fractures
* Improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
* Enhance self esteem
* Improve memory in elderly people
* Reduce stress

So, even if you opt for small changes and a more modest weight loss, you can see the benefits are still pretty good. One study has found that just a 10% weight reduction helped obese patients reduce blood pressure, cholesterol and increase longevity.

Read the rest online.

Nutrition speaker

2009-11-30T14:31:00.000-08:00

This is one of those great opportunities I don't think anyone should miss. Please come if you can, it's sure to be fun, tasty and educational.

Nutrition Speaker and Breakfast
Thurs Dec 10th 9:30a
Methodist hospital
Family Birth Center
Enjoy some breakfast while we listen to a speaker educate us on surviving the holiday eating season. Kids and guests welcome!

RSVP ASAP
http://sahm.meetup.com/1562
916-690-7624
momsinmotioneg@gmail.com

2 more reasons you are NOT too busy to exercise

2009-11-30T07:37:00.000-08:00

Anyone feeling a teeny bit prone to flu, colds, or other germmies? How about stress after the Thanksgiving holiday with family...do you have any stress? Ha! The answer to both is exercise! Read on

2) Increased immune function – cardio vascular conditioning makes your immune cells function better every day due to increased oxygen uptake

3) Cortisol flusher! Moderate exercise is a great way to flush coritsol (stress hormone) which can make us crabby, tired and hungry for sugar!

More tips to come from now till the end of the year. Just don't stop moving.

Fitness Takes NO Holiday #1

2009-11-23T08:16:00.001-08:00

Here we go!!! From now till the end of the year, I'll be providing reasons to keep on your fitness routine, stay true to your goals and focus on the result of a healthier, happier you. Suprise..this will help your family to stay healthier and happier too!

Read up at about.com for more info on the subject:

"Exercise and Immunity
Fight Off Colds with Exercise

By Mark Stibich, Ph.D., About.com Guide
exercise has the ability to improve your immune system and help you fight off colds, flu and other infections. It can even help you recover faster from a minor infection. So don’t stop exercising just because you are a little bit under the weather.

Why Does Exercise Improve Immunity? No one really knows for sure, but there are a few theories:When you exercise, your body increases the speed at which it removes waste products."

Read the rest online: http://longevity.about.com/od/lifelongfitness/a/exercise_immune.htm?p=1

Moms In Motion Elk Grove ROCK!

2009-11-23T07:50:00.000-08:00

What an incredible morning! Saturday was the Davis Turkey Trot, in which 20 Moms in Motion team members participated. We had a few miss due to various obligations, but a fantastic turnout all together.

It was a little chilly that morning...who am I kidding! It was freezing all morning, but we layered up and kept moving. I can't tell you how much fun it is to do an event with our MIM team. Everyone is so excited and pumped up in the morning, GO MIM cheers ring loud as MIMs cross the finish line and everyone comments on our Flower Power shirts for some reason. =)

This was my personal first 10K as a runner. I've completed various events as a speed walker, including two marathons BEFORE kiddos which I'm very proud of. But I've been inspired by all my MIM teammates to begin running this last year and surprise myself with how much I enjoy it. 5K's have been my thing, this time I decided to listen to my own words "push yourself a little more ladies!" and train for the 10K.

I ran my whole 10K, finished faster than I expected, made a few friends on the course, saw my hubby and kids at the finish line. (saw my teammates too..sorry ladies nothing beats having your kids cheer ya on) AND cheered my kiddos on in the kids run later than morning. LOVE IT!!

Time to start planning for 2010! Check out the basics already posted at www.momsinmotion.com

another Fun Blog

2009-11-16T14:42:00.001-08:00

Have you all checked out Tracy on the cheap? Super cute blog, with fashionable outfits for all occasions..re-done to be affordable for a real person. Check out her latest entry with an adorable workout outfit...featuring the mommymuscle thermal.

http://tracyonthecheap.blogspot.com/2009/11/mommy-muscles.html

You too can have your own mommymuscle thermal, s-xl order by email or give me a shout! 916-690-7624

The real stuff

2009-11-16T14:16:00.001-08:00

So, this client email couldn't go without mention.

You know, we are all grown women, respected in the community, role models for our children, professionals who demand respect in our lives and jobs, but it cracks me up that little inappropriate comments we're suppose to ignore...still manage to make us stand up a little taller.

Today, I received the following email from a long time client of StrollerFit. "Thanks to you and your classes I had a random guy say "nice tush" in the grocery store parking lot. Thanks! ;)"

You can be sure I'll keep adding those wall squats, lunges, leg lifts and bridges to each and every class! See ya in class tomorrow.

Moms in Motion Fall team

2009-11-12T09:53:00.000-08:00

WOW! These ladies are amazing! We've been training together on Saturdays, cheering each other on during the week, donating to the Elk Grove Clothes closet and are now just 9 days away from the Davis Turkey Trot. These mamas will be wearing thier flower power November 21st in Davis, watch for the pink if you're in the area!

Our next teams will begin in January, we'd love to have you join us! www.momsinmotion.com

Live a little longer..why not!

2009-11-12T09:01:00.001-08:00

These are some simple, real life changes we can make! It's from Mens Health, but I'm willing to gamble they'll work for women too.

5 Steps Could Add 22 Years to Your Life
Easy little fixes that will keep you from checking out early.
By Alison Granell, Men's Health
Link

1. Next time you're asked, "Soup or salad?" order the salad. +2 years

Italian researchers found that eating as little as 1 cup of raw vegetables daily can add two years to your life. Why raw? Cooking can deplete up to 30 percent of the antioxidants in vegetables. To eat your quota, fill a plastic sandwich bag with chopped red and green peppers, broccoli and carrots. Toss the bag into your briefcase, along with a packet of dressing—the fat will boost your body's absorption of certain nutrients. Learn 13 more tasty ways to maximize your food's health powers.

2. Learn the Law of Lard: The fat you carry today could kill you tomorrow. +3 years

University of Alabama researchers discovered that maintaining a body mass index of 25 to 35 can shorten your life by up to three years. (Excess body fat raises your risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke and colon cancer.) If you're allergic to exercise, sweat with your significant other. A Duke University study shows that sedentary men are 50 percent more likely to work out three times a week if their partners participate.

3. Crack open a fresh can of nuts and extend your expiration date. +3 years

When Loma Linda University researchers tracked the lifestyle habits of 34,000 Seventh Day Adventists—a population famous for its longevity—they discovered that those who munched nuts five days a week, earned an extra 2.9 years on the planet. Pick up the Planters NUT-rition Heart Healthy Mix, which made our list of the 125 healthiest supermarket foods. The blend contains all five key nuts, including walnuts, which are usually left out of nut mixes. Aim to eat 2 ounces a day.

4. Never forget that your buddies have your back—even when it's hunched over from osteoporosis. +7 years

In a study of seventysomethings, Australian researchers found that those with the largest network of friends had the longest lease on life. For the average guy, this could add up to seven additional years of existence. Yes, some buddies may encourage risky behavior from time to time, but friendship ultimately provides more protection than peril. So try to learn a few new faces at work, trade lifting tips at the gym or simply say "hey" to that neighbor you've never met. You can all thank each other later.

5. Repeat after us: "There is life after retirement." +7 ½ years

Or at least that's what you'd better believe if you want to live that long. In a Yale University study of older adults, people with a positive outlook on the aging process lived more than seven years longer than those who felt doomed to deteriorating mental and physical health. Already envisioning decades of decrepitude? Volunteer for a cause you're passionate about: Selfless actions can put a positive spin on life and distract from unhealthy obsessing, reports a study in Psychosomatic Medicine. And try these 18 mood boosters to feel better in less than five minutes.

Restore the Core works!

2009-11-10T20:04:00.000-08:00

In addition to ongoing classes, I also teach Restore the Core to private groups in their homes. Kathy, has been doing a private class just once a week for the last 9 weeks and has really felt a difference in her body. Here are her words:

"Last weekend I wore a cute blouse "tucked in" to my jeans!!! Woo-hoo!!
I have been in RTC for 9 weeks and have noticed a real difference in the way I feel. I can really tell a difference in the way I carry myself and my posture. I am much stronger in general and my waistline is getting smaller. My youngest baby is 25 - It's never too late to feel good! :)

Thanks, Kathy"

This keeps me motivated to help more mamas!

Fitness Takes No Holiday

2009-11-04T10:51:00.000-08:00

As the Elk Grove mommymuscle group gets ready to start the Fitness takes no holiday promotion this month, I find myself looking through all the motivationals tips, articles, fitness facts, and quotes I can find. Check out this great article:

Health and Fitness take no Holiday!

The average American will gain four pounds between Halloween and New Year’s Day. Doesn’t sound like much? It’s just about enough to push you up to the next clothing size! From picking at the trick-or-treat candy and nibbling our way through Thanksgiving to “just a couple” canapés at the neighborhood Christmas party and a few too many nachos during a bowl game, the holidays are a minefield of calorific temptation. So how do you make sure the jeans you’re wearing now still fit in January? Moderation and exercise, of course!

One of the problems that comes with the holidays is increased stress. Where to spend them? What to buy? How can we accommodate everyone and make this the “dream” holiday we see on TV? Add it all up and our own health takes a back burner to our need to please those we love. As you already know, stress causes the body to release cortisol, a hormone that makes you feel jittery and fatigued – and causes your body to store fat. That’s not helpful when you’re faced with that party buffet! If you can’t find ways to cut your stress, try fighting fire with fire – add another 15 to 20 minutes to your daily workout. You’ll accomplish two things: flushing out that icky cortisol, and burning off an extra butter cookie or two.

If just thinking about adding exercise to your already-stretched holiday schedule causes you to stress out now, here are a few tips to help you get it done.

• Make sure you do both cardio and strength training. The combination will burn off calories and increase your metabolism – a great one-two punch for fighting that increase in calories. Head to your local StrollerFit® class to get both cardio and strength all in one workout!
• Sign up for a holiday sporting event. Runs and walks abound, and you can turn it into a family tradition. Or make a good game of touch football a staple of your family gatherings.
• No time for fitness on the holidays themselves? Enjoy your day of rest but have scheduled in a workout time for the days following.
• Check out StrollerFit’s new class restore the core™, not only will it shrink your waistline this holiday season but also teaches participants to breathe properly and maintain good posture. Proper breathing relieves stress and good posture will make all of those holiday photo ops a little less painful!
• Join forces with a buddy or a relative who needs a little positive reinforcement. Keep each other honest by checking in and providing discreet nudges to discourage that second trip to the dessert table. Make workout dates with your holiday health buddy and increase your chances of showing up for that session!
• Designate yourself as the driver who will not indulge in the alcohol. You’ll build good karma and keep yourself from an alcohol-driven junk food binge.
• Think of fitness as the holiday gift you are giving yourself!

Remind yourself that good health never takes a holiday! That doesn’t mean depriving yourself of all the fun this season brings – it just means making wise choices and finding ways to counteract not-so-wise ones. You do have willpower, self-control and the ability to do the right thing for your body. So skip the second helping, put down the “fun-sized” Halloween left- overs, and get to an exercise class. You’ll start the New Year looking great and feeling incredible!

StrollerFit® powered by mommymuscle® and restore the core™ classes are held nationwide, to find a class near you, visit StrollerFit.com today!

Fitness takes no holiday promotion begins Nov 23rd!!!

convention...ahhhhhh!

2009-10-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the National mommymuscle convention in Ohio. WOW, WOW, I just love convention! Imagine a large room full of women who are passionate about fitness, self confidence building, helping moms and side planks. It's ridiculous, we go to classes and presentations from 7am till 7pm, then we're still not done talking about it so we stay up till 1am chatting.

This truely is an inspiring group of women. Everyone shares ideas on new variations on the squat, how to tie mommymuscle gear into existing moves, success stories, new ways to bring new moms to classes, tracking attendance, book keeping, social networking and more.

My favorite part though is when we share exercise ideas. Seriously, someone will pull out a mommymuscle bar, show a new way to do a bicep curl...and instantly someone will join her and start singing song that matches it perfectly. Yes, yes, call me a strollerfit geek. It's true and I'm so very proud of it.

Can't wait to teach mommymuscle sculpt tomorrow and try out a couple partner moves I learned with my group.

Till next time....drop and give me 20. =)Wendy

skinny jeans

2009-10-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

Reading the following note from a client who joined just a few months ago seriously, truthfully brought tears to my eyes. Call me a sap, but it just means so much to me. Hearing how support, schedules that work for moms, fitness formats that work and their hard work combine to build self confidence inspires me to get even better. So read on...

Hi Wendy!

I just wanted to write a quick note to say thanks. I can't tell you how scared I was to join a fitness class, or how glad I am that I did! I feel so accomplished after finishing the hot mama challenge! (Especially after the mile!)

Overall I feel amazing, I'm fitting in my "skinny jeans" that didn't even fit before I got pregnant, and, most importantly, I know I'm setting a good example for Harper. I look forward to class and am so glad to have made friends with other moms. So...THANK YOU!

See you on Monday!

Tracy Kempen

This mama has been dedicated, coming to StrollerFit and Restore the core regularly. Tracy has gone from shakey legs to perfect form V-sits. If you do it, it works. Cool ha?

She's also got a blog of her own, a subject near and dear to a mamas heart...cheap fashion. Check her out: http://tracyonthecheap.blogspot.com/ Wonder if I can get her to do a mommymuscle workout outfit...since I own very few "real" clothes.

Wendy

Self-esteem boosters for new moms, a must!

2009-09-24T12:11:00.000-07:00

Ask any first time mom if her introduction to motherhood went as planned and she will more than likely laugh out loud at the thought before the word “no” comes out of her mouth! The laugh stems from the fact that she can’t believe how different “real life motherhood” is from what she thought it would be. Gone are the fantasies of being that mom who always looks great, never a pound overweight, is a fabulous fashionista, always perfectly accessorized, with salon perfect hair, flawless skin, radiant smile and a few perfectly well behaved children in tow. What replaces those fading fantasies can often times be more than a new mom bargained for or deserves! In fact without a few important strategies, moms can get lost in motherhood and feel as if they are nothing more than a supplier of food, keeper of the peace, maid and housekeeper. Before we know it a year has gone by and our bodies still look like they did when our baby was 2 months old, even worse we no longer recognize, nor like what is looking back. Self –esteem is long gone and instead of being confident in ourselves we begin to question who we are and what we are doing. This is not a healthy path that we moms lead our families down, after all moms are the C.E.O’s of their families health and well being. Confidence and healthy habits are ours to instill in our children and all moms will tell you that you have to practice what you preach, if you want it to stick. Healthy habits produce healthy bodies and minds, both of which are necessary for healthy levels of confidence and self-esteem. Proper care of our bodies is not limited to what we eat or how much we exercise, it is also dependant upon healthy routines with products that are good for us and for our environment. StrollerFit® powered by mommymuscle®, the country’s premier maternal fitness and exercise with your family program has partnered with Aveeno® to help moms take care of their bodies and their babies! Throughout the month of October StrollerFit® will offer a free week of classes to all new participants. New and existing participants will receive free samples of Aveeno® and Aveeno® Baby products along with tip cards that can help moms reclaim their bodies, treat their bodies right and set healthy habits for themselves and their families that will last a lifetime! Together we can build strong confident kids by building strong confident moms™. Visit strollerfit.com/elkgrove for more details or to find class location near you!

Exercise is medicine

2009-09-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

"Exercise is medicine" according to the Kaiser commercial on the radio this morning. I don't always take stock in commercials, but this one has a point. Exercise reduces occurrences of the most common diseases. It reduces stress, increases our endorphins and our feel good hormones.

I had to take a break from running for a few weeks, and although I teach fitness, running is the only exercise I do just for me (evenly on both sides and without stopping to cue, correct form, time someones run, hold a baby or help make sure another mom is getting her best workout ever.) Don't take me wrong, I LOVE LOVE LOVE what I do...but running is just for me. (except when I'm leading the moms in motion teams on the weekends. ha!) I digress.

The point is during that break waiting so "patiently" for my foot injury to heel, I really missed it. The actual running is interesting, the first mile hurts, then I'm good for a bit, then I try to convince myself to keep running, then I sprint to the finish so I can be done....but after I'm done. I FEEL GREAT!!!! Really, I feel like I am strong, I'm in shape, I can conquer the world. I really think there is something to that Happy seritonin hormone thing. Something happens in our bodies when we exercise that fine tunes it, gets our blood pumping and mind cleared.

And the truth is I get that same great, positive feeling when I teach a fitness class, running group or restore the core class. It's a high, a top of the world feeling that makes me feel so lucky to be healthy and strong. And I sooo want to share that with YOU!

What's your story?

Wendy Hoag
916-690-7624
www.strollerfit.com/elkgrove
www.momsinmotion.com

a great blog!

2009-08-27T14:15:00.001-07:00

Check out this blog, a friend of a friend who has all sorts of great info to share...enjoy!

http://trainufit.wordpress.com/2009/08/09/what-to-eat/

private classes

2009-08-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

I'm jumping into uncharted waters and so excited about it! Restore the core is such a powerful format, and it seems just perfect for moms groups. Tonight we have a group of 6 starting a class in the backyard while the hubbys and kids play inside. fun!

What is it you ask?

restore the core™ helps moms…

• Lose the low belly sag!
• Restore strength to the abdominal wall
• Improve pelvic floor function
• Regain proper posture
• Tighten all the core muscles
• All ages & abilities guaranteed to see results
• You will see and feel a difference!

Details on the private classes?

Grab at least 5 friends, a mat and pick a day that will work for the next 6 weeks, it’s an RTC party!

• Want an am class but don't have childcare! Set up your playroom.
• Kids in school? Gather other class moms.
• Exercise during sports practice, you decide!

Loaner equipment available.

How much?

$60.00/person for 6 week session

Do you have ongoing classes?

YES! There are ongoing classes in Elk Grove and Lodi.
Visit www.strollerfit.com for details. Or call us 916-690-7624

down to the soul

2009-08-25T14:16:00.000-07:00

You know how something’s just stick with you? You continue to think of them hours, days, weeks and years later at the oddest times. That very thing is happening to me.

As a leader of the MIM team in Elk Grove, I always try to come up with some little thing for moms to say about themselves at the beginning of our workouts..in addition to their names. It gives us a chance to get to know each other just a little better. A little over a week ago, instead of "favorite color, kids names" we did "how, if at all, are you connected to our philanthropy?" Our team is supporting the Leukemia and lymphoma society and the be the match registry this season. Many members had shared their personal connections and stories with me...I'd hoped it would give them the chance to let others know how personal this philanthropy is.

What followed, still makes the hair stand up on my arms, and was very touching. Each person said something heart felt, one had a child (now a 36yr old survivor) diagnosed at 18 months, another has a friend with a newly diagnosed daughter, some had no personal connection but expressed their interest in helping, several had family members who'd not survived and still another had just attended a funeral the day before in honor of someone who'd battled the disease.

The philanthropy part of MIM has always touched me, but this was one of those "defining moments" if you will. Not a dry eye in the place, we all felt closer as a team, as women and moms. Just a little effort on each person’s part can make such a dramatic difference in a cause.

Keep movin mamas. Moving forward, and making mountains move.

If you are a local Elk Grove resident, please consider our two fundraisers.
Thur., August 27th
Pedicure for the Cure
QT nails
9630 Brucevile near Kohls
20% of all services donated to Leukemia & Lymphoma

Thur. Sept 10th
Big Spoon Yogurt
5109 Laguna Blvd
30% of purchases will be donated to Leukemia & Lymphoma

Fri Sept 18th
Bone Marrow Registry Drive
9105 Bruceville Road
Bone Marrow Registry Drive YOU CAN SAVE A LIFE Every day, thousands of patients with leukemia and other life threatening diseases hope for a marrow donor who can make their transplant possible. 70% do not have a donor in their family and depend on people like you. Join the registry, save a life. Sept 18th BloodSource Laguna 9105 Bruceville Road Elk Grove Schedule an apt: Terry.rubstello@bloodsource.org or 916-453-3028 Register online for an at home kit: www.bethematch.org Enter code August09 to register w/o a fee.

More details for all under "events" at www.momsinmotion.com

Thank you so much for your support!!

2009-08-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to start the hot mama fitness challenge tomorow! It's my favorite promotion, offer, special class, etc by far. Clients have the opportunity for even more personal attention and to see and feel the results they are working so hard for. Tomorrow, in our kick off classes (in strollerfit and in restore the core formats) we'll do initial physical challenges and measurements that will be our starting point. Then with each class, moms will complete chalenges as well as complete fitness and nutrition challenges at home. Buy only after comitting to 20 classes in 8 weeks on their way to becoming... One hot mama!
It's a catchy title, a whole lot of fun and produces some incredible boosts in self confidence, endurance and strength for participating mamas.

Watch for updates along our 8 week journey.

parents day

2009-07-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

Let's celebrate Parents Day on Aug 1st with a family fitness event!
Join in on the activities with lots of exercise, silly behavior and fun for the whole families...daddy, kids of all ages and the whole family is welcome. Afterwards we'll celebrate even more with a potluck. yummy!

Read more about parents day is Katie Freemans Elk Grove Citizen article: http://www.egcitizen.com/articles/2009/07/22/lifestyle/doc4a664bb48cb31317225905.txt

RSVP and get event details at: http://sahm.meetup.com/1562/calendar/10719178/

ribbon week successes!

2009-06-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

Raise your hand if you'd like to reduce the distance around your midsection by 2.5 inches.

Krissy K and Shannon D did just that! Every 2 months in restore the core we pull out a set of ribbons and wrap them around our waists at the belly button. We cut 2.5 inches off their ribbons this month! Way to go mamas...that restore the core class is working!

By focusing on form and function of the core muscles (each one that attaches to the spine and pelvis) we are teaching them to balance out and really do their jobs effectively. This can make a noticeable difference in how your pants fit too! Ask Krissy and Shannon. ;)

Come try it yourself! Your first class is always free...ask about specials too!

BEST of Elk Grove!

2009-06-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

Elk Grove online is a local resource in our community. Many residents use it for information, advice, referals and to connect with their neighbors. Recently, Elk Grove online hosted a BEST of Elk Grove poll.

mommymuscle won 3rd place for BEST Group fitness in Elk Grove!
What an amazing honor. Yippee! I work so hard at providing a great service to the community, to moms and families. And to see that those people took time from thier busy days to vote for mommymuscle really makes me feel great. Thanks!

what an informative article

2009-06-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

Just a teeny bit excited today...we had a reporter from the Elk Grove Citizen come to restore the core last week. Katie Freeman, a very nice, thorough reporter who asked lots of questions. She really was sure to get facts right and did a great job with this one.

The article is in the Elk Grove Citizen today, see it online at : Elk Grove Citizen

She's also included some comical notes in her blog at: http://katie-scoopegcitizen.blogspot.com/

Here's a preview:

mommymuscle
"Restore the Core" class fits moms' needs
By Katie Freeman

Every workout tool in Wendy Hoag’s “Restore the Core” abdominal fitness class for pregnant women and moms has a cute name with the word “mommy” in its title. But don’t let that fool you into thinking this class is all fuss, no muss. You’ll be sorely surprised.......

Great opportunity for wonderful photos

2009-06-02T15:40:00.000-07:00

Portrait Party Fundraiser

Moms in Motion of Elk Grove is participating in the Shriner’s 5k & 8k June 20th
Help us raise funds for Shriner’s children’s hospital!

Bring the family out to get your portraits done by
Miwok Park
9344 Village Tree Dr, Elk Grove
Saturday June 6th
9am – 5pm
Appointments Required

NO sitting fee!
We only ask for a $20 donation to Shriner’s hospital
Tax ID# 36-2193608

For more details or to book your appointment, please contact:
Alyson Viducich Photography
portraits@alysonviducich.com 916-524-2138 www.AlysonVPhotography.com

Motivation

2009-06-02T13:36:00.000-07:00

Many of us moms struggle with the motivation to get out there and just get moving. It's a struggle between the reality that there is so much on our plates already, that we would somehow be taking away from time with our family, deciding that we are worth the effort it takes to exercise and what the result will be. The truth is, those moms that do make it a priority ARE feeling the benefits and so are thier families!

I just got the following note from on of the moms on our current Moms In Motion team, Stacie Morganstern. "Now that you have me motivated I want to try to do runs all year long and see if I can keep this up. I love how it makes me feel now that I have done it and know that I can."

Hearing that makes all the work behind the scenes to teach and lead worthwhile. Moms, you rock...just keep moving!

Mom N Tot Yoga...now enrolling!!

2009-05-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

So excited to annouce we're ready to get rolling on this class format!

Mom N Tot Yoga NOW ENROLLING
Experience this new class format, it's a yoga workout for both parent and child. Increase self confidence, connection and more as you exercise together!

Two 8 week sessions available:
Evening SessionJune 16th - Aug 4th 6:30-7:15pm
Stepping Stone Learning Academy
Morning Session
June 19th -Aug 7th 10:30-11:15am
Dance2DRhythm Studio

$125/family - register by 6/4 $145/family - register after 6/4 up to 3 family members $40/extra person supply fee (fit n fun mats): $60/adult, $30/child

FREE DEMO CLASS
June 4th 10:30am
Elk Grove Park

ENROLL TODAY! 916-690-7624

Fitness and Nutrition Challenge

2009-05-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

StrollerFit moms unite to lose more than 534lbs in 4 weeks & lend a helping hand to hungry families...
StrollerFit moms nationwide participated in the Biggest Loser's Pound for Pound Challenge during the month of April. and they lost a combined total of 534.5 pounds!

In return 534.5 pounds in groceries were given to Feeding America!

Over 60 of those pounds were "lost" here in Elk Grove! Way to go mamas!

Our Elk Grove Fitness and Nutrition challenge continued for 6 weeks, with some amazing results!

Audry H. lost 10 pounds
Stefani R. lost 5 pounds, a total of 8 3/4 inches and a pant size
Krissy K. lost 6 pounds
Theresa N. went down in every measurement
Tasha P. lost over 2 pounds, and 4 inches by the midway point
and these are just a few!

mom n tot yoga comes to Elk Grove

2009-05-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

Yoga for Kids? Oh yes! Jonna Byars, PhD. Our adult lives have become so rushed and overscheduled that we rarely have time to stop and take a breath. And we often mistakenly assume that children do not suffer from stress related symptoms. After all, kids don't have to work, pay bills, or deal with difficult people, so what could they possibly have to worry about? But even very young children have worries and feel stress. Stress is a function of the demands placed on us and our ability to meet them, regardless of what the demands are. And although we do not like to think about it, the stress that parents feel has a direct effect on the stress levels of children. Much concern has been voiced about obesity in children. Over the past three decades the obesity rate has doubled for children aged 2-5 and tripled for children aged 6-11. An important cause of this shocking development has been identified as lack of activity. Research has found that if you instill a love of activity at an early age, children are much more likely to remain at a normal weight throughout their life. To help kids manage their stress and fight obesity we have to find a way of exercise that involves their whole being, including their physical body, mind, soul, and heart. This makes yoga the perfect solution. When presented in a child's language, yoga can help counter the stress experienced by young people living in a hurry-up world. In fact, yoga is a mandated part of physical education classes in the State of California for elementary education. And ever since its implementation, teachers report that their students are much more relaxed and are able to learn at deeper level. Why yoga for kids? Research has found the following benefits for children: 1) Children experience many of the same physical benefits adults do from practicing yoga. Yoga strengthens and exercises them. It makes them more flexible, coordinated, balanced, and less likely to suffer an injury.
2) Yoga for kids also enhances self-awareness. Children who practice yoga learn early on to tune into their bodies and become aware from the inside out. This self awareness, which few adults posses, helps the child focus. Self esteem is bolstered as children gain control over their bodies and minds.
3) Yoga for kids enhances imagination and empathy. When they stretch like a dog, balance like a flamingo, breathe like a bunny, or stand tall like a tree, and are asked to imagine what it would be like to be those life forms, not only do children use their imagination, but they also develop understanding and reverence for all life. When the principle of interdependence becomes apparent, children learn early on to connect with other life forms on the planet and realize that similarities far outweigh differences.
4) Yoga teaches children to have fun and move their bodies in a con-competitive environment. Yoga isn't about being right or wrong, or being best or worst. It is about bringing awareness to one's own life. And children can work together to help each other reach this goal.
5) Yoga for kids teaches self-discipline. As part of the practice of yoga, kids need to slow down, hold certain postures, breathe or think in a certain way. Yoga encourages children to master themselves rather than wait for an adult to control them. 6) Yoga for kids can also be a way to strengthen families. Yoga is an exercise that parents and children and even grandparents can practice and talk about together. As children participate in yoga with their families, they feel closer to their loved ones. 7) Through practicing yoga, children can learn ways to relax and get control of stress in their lives. A child worried about a presentation, for instance, might use the breathing techniques of yoga to help her calm down and focus. I am excited to present the first yoga program created for children and their parents. This program, Mom 'n Tot™ Yoga, utilizes storytelling, games, music, partner stretches, and other arts in a curriculum that engages the "whole child." Our program engages the entire mind, body, and spirit in a way that honors all the ways children learn. Moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers will also reap the benefits of yoga in this format. All children, ages 3 & up are welcome.

FREE demo class June 4th 10:30 am at Elk Grove Park. RSVP today! Eight week sessions begin in June. More information: 916-690-7624 online at www.strollerfit.com/elkgrove

Biggest loser and the Fitness & Nutrition challenge

2009-03-31T14:12:00.000-07:00

In my nearly four years teaching fitness for moms, if there is one thing I've learned it's that the word "challenge" really gets those mama moving! It's really close to giving my brother a double dog dare when we were kids. A 3 minute cardio challenge (watch those ladies move), hot mama fitness challenge ( we're signing up!), Try this move to make those squats a little more challenging (whew, at least half the group will give it a whirl)....so with that being said here comes the Fitness & Nutrition Challenge for Spring!

Accept the 6 week Fitness & Nutrition challenge!

Set a weight loss & nutrition goal
Journal fitness & nutrition efforts in your own log book
Attend any mommymuscle classes
Receive helpful nutrition tips
Participate in fitness challenges in class
Receive a BabyTalk magazine & goodie bag
Consult w/a personal nutritionist ($40 per session)
Try new BabyTalk moves in classes
Log onto BabyTalk website for even more!

Participation is FREE when you enroll by April 4th!

Current members pay just $5 (or it's free when you upgrade equipment, buy product or schedule a nutrition consultation)

BIGGEST LOSER
· TRACK YOUR WEIGHT LOSS DURING OUR ‘POUND FOR POUND’ CHALLENGE
· ENTER YOUR RESULTS IN THE ‘BIGGEST LOSER’ CONTEST
· RAISE FUNDS FOR Feeding America™
· (10¢ donated for every pound lost to local food banks)

www.strollerfit.com/elkgrove 690-7624

Can't wait to see the results from this CHALLENGE!!!

Fallen team member

2009-03-31T14:03:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was a CRAZY day! Nutrition fuels fitness madness. Both Jessie & Nicholas ran in the kids races (and did GREAT!), the moms in motion team I lead participated in the 5K for their culminating event, families from StrollerFit participated in the 5K stroller start (sponsored by StrollerFit!), home for grocery shopping and cooking a potluck dish and we wrapped it up with a fundraiser extravaganza that evening raising over $1000 for our childhood obesity programs that NADA puts together. Whew!!

Moms in motion is about Fitness, Fun and Philanthropy. Its about supporting each other on a team, about supporting our community and taking time out for ourselves. When our latest team began in January, we never imagined we would cross the finish line at the 5K today without one of our team members. Last week, a plane went down in Montana carrying Vanessa Pullen, her husband, children and extended family. Each and every one of us is heartbroken and touched. Vanessa was a positive person with a tremendous impact on our community through her Moms in Motion participation as well as her work as an Elk Grove pediatrician, and loving mother.

At our race Sunday, we honored her by wearing her name on our jerseys. Philanthropy is part of every moms in motion team, but we've decided to donate all proceeds from our fundraising efforts this season to NADA in Vanessa's name. The money will go to support childhood obesity programs in our area, a cause we know she supported. Each day is a gift we must cherish.

Gotta go hug the kids again!!!

Let's do this thing again!

2009-03-10T06:16:00.000-07:00

Moms in motion Elk Grove, much to my delight, has been a tremendous success. We are just two weeks out from our second culminating event with a very spirited, dedicated and really FUN group of teammates. I must admit, I really look forward to Saturday mornings when I can get out and run or walk with these inspiring women. Hearing the stories, challenges and incredible ideas for our philanthropy makes me want to do it again...soon!

So here goes....announcement for the Spring run/walk team with a much in demand longer distance option!

Calling all Women!!!

We want you on our team! Moms In Motion is an international women’s health and fitness community based on Fun, Fitness and Philanthropy. Women of all ages and abilities join a fitness team that meets their current needs. Led by qualified leaders, members follow a fitness program that ends with a culminating event to help support a charity in their local community.

5K & 8K RUN/WALK TEAM

FREE ORIENTATION
April 7th 7pm
Running Zone

PHILANTHROPY
Shriners Hospital
for children

RSVP today: 916-690-7624 http://www.momsinmotion.com/

two more success stories

2009-03-10T06:13:00.000-07:00

Just in the last week I've heard GREAT things from two more mamas.

Krissy reported in restore the core that she took a chance, grabbed the skinny jeans from the top of the closet......THEY FIT!!!! yeah Krissy...you go girl!

Shannon D, another restore the core mama, just delivered baby #2 with "very fast" pushing. She's making my heart soar by giving credit to her devotion to restore the core during her pregnancy.

Once again, you ladies are awesome!

Go mama!

2009-03-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

Just heard from Denise about some GREAT success she's having! Denise starting coming to classes late last year. A month or so in, I remember her coming to me and saying "I haven't lost a pound, what do I do?" We had a great conversation about challenging yourself in class, committing to regular exercise and how important it was to keep on track with nutrition. Denise started a food log...and then took another step to join Weight Watchers. She's a regular in StrollerFit classes and improving her nutrition, and has now lost over 20 pounds!!! All that mommymuscle must be helping. YEAH mama!

We're all so proud of her and know she'll keep going.

exercise for pregnant moms

2009-02-24T16:56:00.000-08:00

My clients all know how much I love information on exercise and the great things it does for us. I love to get articles from clients! It's soul satisfying and backs up everything we are doing.

Sharlene just sent me the following article out of a newsletter her husband's office sends out. Check it out!

Exercise During
Pregnancy Has Baby
Benefits, Too
Even fetus shows lower heart rate when momsto-be work out regularly
Exercise does a body good -- two bodies when the
one exercising is a pregnant woman.
A new study shows that when a mom-to-be works
out, her fetus reaps cardiac benefits. The benefits
show up as lower fetal heart rates, according to the
finding to be presented this week at the
Experimental Biology 2008 annual meeting in San
Diego.
"This study suggests that a mother who exercises
may not only be imparting health benefits to her
own heart, but to her developing baby's heart as
well. As a result of this pilot study, we plan to
continue the study to include more pregnant
women," study co-author Linda E. May, of the
Department of Anatomy at Kansas City University
of Medicine and Biosciences, said in a prepared
statement.
Ten women participated in the study, half of whom
were exercisers and the other half who weren't.
Fetal movements such as breathing, body and
mouth movements were monitored and recorded
from 24 weeks into pregnancy to term.
The researchers found significantly lower heart
rates among fetuses that had been exposed to
maternal exercise throughout the study period. The
heart rates among the fetuses not exposed to
exercise were higher, regardless of the fetal activity
or the gestational age.
Source: HealthDay News
© HealthAtoZ.com

whole food

2009-02-24T13:35:00.000-08:00

This weekend we had a speaker at our moms in motion workout and I was so inspired I just had to "blog" it. The speaker addressed some issues on how we fuel our bodies, benefits of eating better, watching what foods we offer to our children, obesity, declining life expectancy's of our children's' generation, organic foods, etc... Some of this was too dramatic for my life style but the part that really stuck with me was the concept of eating whole foods.

This is something I always try to do, partly because I enjoy cooking, partly because I just know it has to be better for us to eat something fresh rather than out of a box, and it tastes better! But why not challenge myself to take it another step and actually add a fruit or vegetable to every meal? It's not that hard to cut up an apple or pull baby carrots from the fidge...and those are two things my kids aren't going to say "I don't like it" to when I serve them.

Then I took a dvd home that is called the Fitness Effect. It talks about balancing exercise, nutrition, hydration and supplements. The supplements are the Juice plus product the speaker above sells. Most of what was presented in the DVD are things I'm very familiar with and things I try to educate clients on, however it's always great to be reminded....and challenged. If you have a minute check out their website www.juiceplusfitnesseffect.com for some great basic information. So when I got home from my weekly shopping trip I filled the crisper and the tray on the counter with fruits and veggies. It's Tuesday and we're making a good dent in the pile. Yeah!

My new years resolution this year was to learn more about nutrition and do a better job of fueling my body for all I expect it to do for me. Leigh Hobson is a friend of mine, StrollerFit owner in Lodi, Juice plus distributor and someone who is well educated on nutrition. She and her friends did a great presentation for us, and I really learned quite a bit. The shopping list they handed out gave quite a few real life suggestions too.

Try this one for example, organic ketchup does not contain any high fructose corn syrup but still tastes great. How hard is that?

If you want more info on Juice Plus, the Fitness effect challenge or that great shopping list, please call Leigh Hobson at 209-470-2766.

Super mom!

2009-02-09T16:36:00.000-08:00

Alyson is a client in Moms in Motion..recently elected Super mom due to her positive attitude, amazing ability to make others comfortable, and her successes running with 2 moms in motion teams...so far!

Her interview is below, and will also be posted on the National MIM website soon:
Hometown: Sacramento, Ca
Education: CSUS
Career: Photographer & mom (www.alysonviducich.com )
Team Type: running/walking
Motivations: I’d like to have more energy and reclaim part of my pre-pregnancy body back
Training Philosophy: Go further than last time. Keep one foot in front of the other.
Training Inspirations: Getting that “ME” time, recognizing more strength & endurance and any inches that may be lost along the way :)

Read the rest of Aly's super mom interview and about more Super moms online at: http://www.momsinmotion.com/supermoms.aspx?spotlight=f1df69a9-34e0-47f4-98a5-16463d081534

Here goes nothin'

2009-02-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

Let's add one more thing to the ol' plate and just see what happens!
I’m a…well as with so many of us women it’s hard to give a brief description of what we are. I juggle a variety of things I love: 2 kids (4 yr old Nicholas and 6 yr old Jessie), a husband (Ted), a growing StrollerFit business, a moms in motion 5K run/walk team, a tirelessly cluttered house and now I’m taking on the role of Moms in Motion Leadership Support and Development director. It’s all great fun, and as my husband will attest I’m not one to sit and relax anyhow.

I've got 3 years experience in marketing & running StrollerFit in my little territory of Elk Grove, with rankings most months in the top 5 nationwide. We now offer 3 class formats locally; Stroller Fit, restore the core and mommymuscle sculpt. My previous experience is in customer service and sales for commercial printing companies. Followed by a 2 year stint as a merchandiser for Liz Claiborne and a hospital childbirth educator for 4 years.

My role with moms in motion will be to provide support to help team leaders be successful. Keeping in contact with leaders, sending out singlet’s and promotional materials and providing an information packed newsletter each month. So far it's been a real hoot getting to know some leaders and hearing the amazing things they are doing!

Jamie is an absolute joy to work with; her positive attitude is contagious and fun. This company really has a bright future and I'm honored to be part of it.

Can't wait to work with all the amazing MIM women out there. Talk to ya soon!

Read more of my blogs on the moms in motion website:
http://www.momsinmotion.com/members/view-profile.aspx?member=573f6636-5647-48d6-9266-281ea80f3c87

the kids are watching!!!

2009-02-09T16:06:00.000-08:00

Christine sent this to me recently and I just had to share! Her son Alex is one of the first to participate in every StrollerFit class...helping us count, singing ABC's the loudest, etc. Apparently Tammy's StrollerFit circuit class has really gotten his attention too!

"I thought I'd send you a picture of Alex's exercise attempt. You will see 5 pieces of paper attached to the wall in our hallway.

I asked him what they were for, and he said they were for exercising. We then added an activity to each one. He chose Humpty Dumpty, 1,2 Buckle My Shoe, jumping jacks, hops, and push ups. I think he's been paying attention! Enjoy!

Always,
Christine"

We truely are building strong confident children but building strong confident moms.