Being fit. Not skinny, but fit.

That's why I started working out. I want to be fit. I want to be able to run and not get winded. I got these tips today and thought they were pretty good ones, so I'm sharing.


For Cycle House fitness guru and head spin instructor, Nichelle Hines, staying fit and healthy is a way of life. While many think getting in shape is impossible, Nichelle’s five simple steps can change even the laziest person’s view.

Nichelle’s DIY Steps to a healthy lifestyle:

1. SLEEP: At least 8 hours of sleep a night! Your weight is directly related to how much rest you get. With 8 hours of sleep a night cortisol and stress levels decrease while your energy level increases!
[my note: this is impossible for me since I have sleeping issues but I do try.]

2.It’s true, breakfast is the most important meal of the day; eat a healthy breakfast with a mix of complex carbohydrates, protein and fat! (Eat the yolk, it's the least of your fat concerns!) Nichelle’s personal favorite: whole wheat English muffin, egg, turkey bacon, and low-fat cheese with an apple. It will sustain you 'til lunch!
[my note: I have been trying to eat breakfast since I started working out. I'm not really a breakfast person but I'm trying to be.]

3. Interval training: keep your heart rate guessing by mixing it up. Slow, quick, slow, quick is my motto- always pushes your limits and forces the mind and body to engage and adapt. No matter the exercise this is something you can always practice to keep the body on its toes and always burning.
[my note: I do this! While I am jogging, I toss in a minute of sprinting.]

4. See ya, Sweeteners: no more artificial sweeteners! Sure they give you a fake sugar fix, but they keep you craving sweets and your body does not know how to process them. Keep it simple and natural. If you can't pronounce it- you probably shouldn't put it in your temple.
[my note: I have never liked artificial sweeteners so this is easy.]

5. Finally... Hydrate!!! So often when our body thinks it's hungry we're simply thirsty. Stay up on your H2O, stay low in weight! If I'm really craving juice (which is rare- high in sugar) I do half water, half juice; half the calories!
[my note: I hate water. HATE IT. But I have had at least 64 ounces a day since I started working out. When I feel hungry, I drink half a bottle of water and then if I still feel hungry, I'll have a snack. I'm almost as proud of the water drinking as I am of the working out.]

Bonus Tip
*Always take a moment (10 minutes if you've got the time, but a moment or two will do in a pinch) to calm down, breathe, smile and have a peaceful, grateful thought. It always centers the body and promotes positive decision making at any time in your day!


I generally agree with everything she said, so I thought it was good to share. Have a great Tuesday!