Change is good

September 15, 2015September 16, 2015Leave a comment

Do you get bored with the same workouts day after day…week after week?

Do you find yourself going through the motions instead of really putting your full effort into that short 30 minute sweat session?

I’ll be honest – I love the 21 day fix program – the workouts, nutrition guide – full package – but I swear I have workout program ADD – I get bored with the same workouts over and over and I know its good for my body to switch things up & to work different muscle groups to keep my body guessing and working/changing at the same time! I have recently had some slight pain/discomfort in my knee so I figured the time was right for a change. I have decided to go low impact cardio for while and toss in an 8 week round of PiYo! I can work on my strength, improve my flexibility, and start each morning with Chalene Johnson…I mean how can you complain?!?!

So…what is PIYO?

PiYo is a mix of yoga and pilates INSPIRED moves in a cardio format. You will sweat – you will sculpt your body – but you will only use your body! There are no weights involved but rather you, your yoga mat and the belief that YES you can do anything you put your mind to!!!

Click here for a little Sneak Peek into PIYO!

I have completed this 8-week program once before and shared my results and journey on my blog. Its a totally different program and you may think you won’t be getting results because you’re not jumping around like crazy but TRUST THE PROCESS!

So what can you expect:

The workout program comes with 8 workouts:

ALIGN : THE FUNDAMENTALS; UPPER BODY; LOWER BODY; SWEAT; CORE; DRENCH; STRENGTH INTERVALS; SCULPT

Each one designed to target a different area of you body to completely tone and sculpt you from head – to – toe!

If this sounds like something you’d like to do then read on!!!

What’s next:

The key aspect I found for myself in sticking to any program is surrounding myself with other like minded people who want to succeed too! I run online accountability groups to help people – like me – like you – get started and continue on their health and fitness journey!

I will provide support, motivation, tips and ideas and you will receive a place to check in daily – a 24/7 accountability group that will help you COMMIT & FOLLOW THROUGH with your goals!!!

I cannot make you do anything but I can provide you with the tools and guidance to SUCCEED!

What do you need to do to join?

Each person is required to make me their free coach on TeamBeachbody. You can do that here: Create A Free Account then since my focus for my September challengers is BALANCE and Yoga and Pilates fit perfectly with the theme – Piyo is going to be the preferred program. If you do not wish to do Piyo then you can choose to do another Beachbody Fitness program but if you haven’t yet tried PiYo I highly encourage you to try it out! You won’t be disappointed!!!
Each person is required to replace 1 meal a day with Shakeology. This is one meal in terms of 5 or 6 small meals a day – so trust me you’re still going to be eating food. Shakeology is not a protein shake, but it is a nutrient dense meal replacement that has the correct protein to carb to fiber ratio to keep you full for 2.5-3 hours. Why do I require this??? Because I know that those who invest in Shakeology, drink it daily get great results, fewer cravings and feel more energized than those who don’t! Its superfoods your body needs!!!

Throughout the group I will share with you how to plan out your meals, adjust for traveling, sporting event nights and those busy days of Fall which I think all us mamas need right now!!

We are in this – TOGETHER!!! I will ask you to check in daily and I will do the same! This will help hold you accountable and help you reach your goals!!!

If you are interested in joining my Busy Moms finding BALANCE group that kicks off the 21st then fill out the application below. Spots are limited and will be filed on a first come first serve basis.

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Transformation Thursday – 21 Day Fix Success Story

September 10, 2015September 10, 2015Leave a comment

There are a lot of reasons WHY I coach but one thing that plays HEAVY in that decision and goal board is being able to share in the successes of my challengers and those who have made a decision to INVEST in themselves!!!

Em has completed 2 rounds of the 21-day fix and well, as you can see, she has received some pretty amazing results!!!

MEET EM:

“My first round my focus was on weight and the scale something I pretty much have always had a struggle with. However this round my focus was on inches and trying not to obsess over the scale. I cannot even begin to express how important it is to forget the scale and look at all those NSVs!! It is so much healthier to look at those at least for me. I have lost a total of 12lbs and my victory 8.5 inches!!!! I plan to keep going and I can’t wait to figure out what my new goals will be as I continue on this journey to a healthy happier ME. Thank you ladies for keeping me accountable and making this journey a reality instead of just a dream that would drag me down.”

Its not just about the transformation you can see but rather that transformation you c Busy moms find balance ad with 3 day refresh an FEEL on the inside! Being able to share in these transformations fills my cup!!!

The secret is in the combo deal! If you practice a few basic principles over 4 weeks with the support and accountability of our online group you will see results WHILE developing a new healthier, more BALANCED life that you can maintain long after our time together is over!!!

If you are ready for a clean break from bad habits then join my Busy Moms Finding BALANCE support group! You can utilize the 3-day refresh to kick those bad habits and jump in full force or simply start with your workout program but know that you have a tribe of women supporting you every step of the way!!!

There’s power in numbers!!!

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Turn Coaching into a CAREER

September 4, 2015Leave a comment

“A ship in port is safe but that’s not what ships are built for”

I came across this quote today and it just spoke to me…how true is this!!! And how relatable this is FOR ME!!!

I wasn’t looking for a “job” when I became an online Health & Fitness Coach and I would often jokingly say “I was a very happy SAHM” before this opportunity came my way

But when I stop and think about how GREATLY my life has been impacted – from the inside and out – I realize it was one of the greatest blessings in disguise the day I signed up as a coach “just to get a discount on my monthly Shakeology” and I want to SHOUT it from the roof tops!

We are all made for something Extra Ordinary-something special…something that gives you that burning desire to do more of it because you simply love what you do and do what you love!

I am personally mentoring a SMALL group of women who want to pursue this opportunity!!! To build a business, pay it forward, and turn Beachbody coaching into a CAREER!!!!

Requirements for this opprtunity:

*Must be coachable, willing to learn, committed, goal setter and drink a milkshake every day – aka – shakeo!

*Must not already be working with a coach

*Must have FUN!!!

If you think this is something fit for YOU fill out the application below to be considered for a spot in my next Coach Training Academy!!!

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Chocolate Almond Protein Squares – FIXATE

September 1, 2015September 1, 2015Leave a comment

While there’s a first time for everything and we the hubby and I experienced a HUGE one Sunday night…we did NOT get desert at the Cheesecake Factory!

Ok – so perhaps, strangely, this is no big deal to some but this was our favorite date night spot – we would indulge on anything and everything and ALWAYS get our own slice of heaven. But times have changed and while we enjoyed a healthy, balanced, portioned lunch when the decision time came we both realized – we didn’t need it – it wasn’t worth it! Not to say I’ll never eat a slice again – I’m sure I will – but not this time! But I also knew I could make something that would satisfy the sweet tooth and not break the belt buckle!!!!

That being said when this recipe popped up in my open FIXATE book we decided this was the time to give it a try…but we were missing a few ingredients.

I stocked up and am happy to report these were fast, easy, and ummm – AMAZING!

Serves: 16 (1 square each)

Container equivalents – 1/2 red; 1/2 yellow

WHAT YOU NEED:

1 cup oat flour (I made my own by processing oats in the food processor!0
1 cup whey protein powder, vanilla flavor
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 tsp. sea or himalayan salt
1 cup all-natural almond butter
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, melted

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:

Line 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper
Place oat flour, protein powder, almond flour and salt in food processor, pulse to mix
Add almond butter and extract, pulse for one minute or until crumbly
Add almond milk; pulse for one minute or until mixture forms a soft dough
Press dough into prepared pan, smooth with spatula
Freeze, covered for 15 minutes
Cut into 2×2 squares
Drizzle melted chocolate evenly on top of protein bars
Freeze for 10 minutes or until chocolate sets
Store in freezer for up to one week in airtight container

I immediately had to dive in and all I could think of was: Hello Quest Bar replacement!!!! I love quest bars, love love love them but I loved these even more so and I know everything that went into them!!!

This recipe is from the new cookbook FIXATE, by Autumn Calabrese. Autumn also created the 21-day fix and 21-day fix extreme workout programs which incorporate 30 minute workouts with a portion controlled nutrition plan. No matter what your age or weight or current athletic ability – anyone can eat right for their body type! She includes a variety of Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten Free and Paleo recipes.

If you’re interested in getting started and/or continuing your health and fitness journey join my upcoming Health & Fitness online Accountability group by filling out the application below

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Homemade Reese Cup Blizzard – Clean Version

August 31, 2015August 31, 2015Leave a comment

Calling all my PB and Chocolate lovers…all my Dairy Queen Blizzard lovers…and all my “I need to get my eating under control” peeps!!!

I found myself hitting the afternoon slump – beginning to drag and opening and shutting the pantry doors trying to talk myself into why the M&M stash was the appropriate thing to dive into…but then I quickly remembered my commitment to myself.

I am COMMITTED to my goals…my healthy, balanced, clean eating goals – and well M&Ms don’t fit the plan!!!

So…as an alternative I whipped up this chocolately peanut butter goodness!

I started with my typical chocolate shakeo (but added a wee bit of almond milk):

1 SCOOP CHOCOLATE SHAKEOLOGY
1TBS PB2
1 CUP SPINACH
8OZ WATER
2OZ ALMOND MILK

I BLENDED EVERYTHING WITH ABOUT 2 CUPS OF ICE UNTIL SMOOTH.

FOR THE TOPPING I MELTED 1 TSP COCONUT OIL WITH 1 TBS PB2 – I ADDED A LITTLE BIT OF WATER TO GET THE CONSISTENCY I WAS LOOKING FOR AND DRIZZLED INTO MY SHAKEO!!!

The PB mix hardened and it was like eating a blizzard…which is a bold statement coming from this ice cream lover!!!

Seriously-you have to try it!!! I used to think CLEAN EATING was boring, bland and nothing but veggies and protein but clean eating is so much more! The benefits are pricesless and its fun to find new recipes and twists on favorites that not only taste delicious but are easy on your waistline too!

If you’re interested in learning more about SHAKEOLOGY or just Clean Eating in general send me an email (maeganblinka@gmail.com) and we can chat! If your’e ready to commit to the LIFESTYLE and make changes and have the support to help you get there – then fill out the application below for one of my upcoming Health & Fitness accountability groups!!!

THERE’S POWER IN NUMBERS

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Back to School – Back to the Basics

August 23, 20151 Comment

Do you feel like it was a quick blink of the eye and all of a sudden summer is over?
Its hard to believe we are down to our last week of August.

This summer, as with summers past, has flown by! And as much as I’d like to say I stuck to my routine and kept up with my health and fitness goals I cannot. One by one things have gotten away from me and while I can’t say I completely fell off the wagon I have been dangling on the side more times than I would like to admit!

It started with our Success Club trip to Cancun in April, then it was my little guy’s second birthday, and then a few trips, a wedding here, a baby shower there, my little girl’s 4th birthday, the building of our new home, packing up, moving, tossed in with some weekend get togethers, and before you knew it we were ordering chinese, and pizza on a regular basis and making all too frequent trips post-dinner for some fro-yo bowls!

As a result, I haven’t been able to get up in the morning when I want to, I find myself tired in the afternoons and less productive which in turn makes me short with the kiddos and frustrated with myself. I don’t like that my once lose and comfortable shorts barely button and the confidence is slowly decreasing.

I mean it happens – I get it – but I don’t exactly like it and I have the power to change it.

My 80/20 goal has been more like a 60/40 reality but the one positive that is staring me in the face: I know EXACTLY what I need to do to succeed and what I need to do to get back to where I was.

I know what works for me.
I know how much the accountability of my challenge groups WORKS.
I know preparation is the first step towards success.
I know that if I follow the 21-day fix portion containers I WILL get RESULTS.
And I know once I go a few days without the processed junk and added sugars the cravings will be gone with the help of Shakeology.
I already know all this its just time to COMMIT and follow through!

My meal plan for the week is set and I’ll be grocery shopping tomorrow and the hubs is on board!

I know I can do it and you know what – so can YOU!

These were my results from my very FIRST round of the 21-Day Fix last March and I am ready to do it again!

If you’ve been thinking about making a change, or if you’re like me and let the summer fun in the sun get the best of you don’t just give up…jump back on the horse and JOIN ME!

My BACK TO SCHOOL – BACK TO YOU Accountability group is kicking off August 31st.

And its time to get back to you!
I will provide you with:
-Healthy quick meals
-Meal planning assistance
-Kid friendly lunches
-Daily motivation and accountability

You will get:
-Amazing results…as long as you stick with me!

I will be taking on 10 new mamas for my Back to School Challenge Group – 10 mom’s who are ready to for a lifestyle change and to be the best mom they can be!

Mom’s it is time for you to go back to school – learn how to take care of YOU and be the best version of YOU

Accepting the first 10 applicants – email me at maeganblinka@gmail.com and/or apply below.

THERE’S POWER IN NUMBERS

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Clean Buffalo Chicken Dip

August 20, 2015August 31, 20153 Comments

Ready or not Summer is winding down and Fall is just around the corner!

I don’t know about you but when I think of fall I think of Back to school, Football, Apples, Festivals, tailgating, get togethers and really good FOOD! And as much as I like good food – I also love CLEAN & Healthy foods and anytime I can take an old favorite with a healthy twist I AM IN!

After a summer full of grilling I have dusted off my crockpot and I am ready for some new soups and easy meals that get tossed together in the morning and are ready to eat come dinner time!

I see this becoming a staple in our house – its easy to make – easy to make A LOT of – and its so versatile!

WHAT YOU NEED:

1 pound chicken
1 cup plain greek yogurt
1/4 cup hot sauce (more or less depending on your preference)
1 TBS minced garlic
1 sliced onion (optional)
1/4 shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Banana Peppers (optional)

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:

Toss all items into the crockpot – cook on low 6-7 hours and shred when complete! And yes – that’s IT!

SOME SERVING IDEAS INCLUDE:

On top of sliced tomatoes —>
As a wrap – I loved it with some sliced banana peppers and spinach on a gluten free tortilla
As a salad – in a mix of romaine and spinach with some cherry tomatoes. The chicken is so juicy – no dressing needed in my opinion
Pizza topping – Again – I am digging the combo with banana peppers but think some additional hot sauce would be good and cheese so its more “like pizza”
Open faced sandwich – easy enough!
Over pasta – this was my munchkins preference
By itself

Side note – the picture with the sliced tomatoes was a time when I had more than 2 pound of chicken and not quite 2 cups of yogurt. It was more of a shredded chicken than a ‘DIP’ but if you use the yogurt identified above for the amount of chicken you have it will be creamier.

And to answer the thought I am sure you have —- No – you cannot taste the yogurt aspect at all!!!

If you would like more recipes like this to help with the busy transition and balance with Back to School this year join my BACK TO SCHOOL – BACK TO YOU Health & Fitness Accountability group starting next week! We share tips, ideas, motivation and keep one another on point as we all adjust to this next stage of the year!!!

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Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

August 10, 2015August 9, 2015Leave a comment

Ok – I swear I am going to dive into the FIXATE recipes outside of the desserts but let’s be honest – these just sounded too good to pass up!

SERVINGS: 26 (1 cookie each)

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 14 minutes

Container equivalents (per serving) – 1.5 yellows

WHAT YOU NEED:

3 cups almond flour

1 tsp. baking soda, gluten free

1/4 tsp. sea salt or Himalayan Salt

1/4 cup extra-virgin organic coconut oil, melted

1/4 cup pure maple syrup or raw honey

1 large egg

2 large egg whites (1/4 cup)

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:

Preheat oven to 375

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper

Combine almond flour, baking soda, and salt in medium bowl; set aside

Beat oil and maple syrup in a large mixer bowl until creamy, approximately 4-5 minutes

Add egg, egg whites, and extract; beat additional 2 minutes

Add almond flour mixture and mix until blended

Drop rounded TBSP not prepared baking sheet. Flatten cookies with a spatula if desired. Bake approximately 14 minutes or until golden brown.

Store in airtight container.

I have a lot of gluten sensitivities in my family and loved that these were gluten free. I think next time I will try to make my own almond flour and maybe go with the honey over the maple syrup just to see!

Also – I had a mishap with my oven timer and they were slightly overcooked. They tasted fabulous right out of the oven but were a bit crispy for my preference. But that has nothing to do with the recipe and everything to do with my own mistake!!! Oops – lesson learned!

If you’re interested in getting started and/or continuing your health and fitness journey join my upcoming Health & Fitness online Accountability group by filling out the application below.

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THERE TRULY IS POWER IN NUMBERS

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What is FIXATE?

August 3, 20155 Comments

21 Day Fix creator Autumn Calabrese takes her simple color-coded container system for measuring perfect portions and applies it to 101 of her favorite family recipes to give you Fixate, a delicious approach to healthy weight loss. So you’re not just eating tasty, healthy foods-you’re eating just the right amount. Each Fixate recipe lists color-coded container equivalents and nutrition facts, so you can use Autumn’s system for measuring portions and make sure your nutrition is on track when you begin 21 Day Fix, 21 Fix EXTREME, or any other fitness program.

Plus, Fixate includes Paleo, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian recipes along with Autumn’s personal tips for preparing meals quickly upgrading leftovers, and stocking
your kitchen with absolute must-haves. Everything to help you get started in the kitchen, so you can finish strong during your workout.

FIXATE is available for purchase in the US and CANADA and also in Spanish.

Shakeology Boosts NOW available!!

July 20, 2015July 22, 20152 Comments

What was just one of the perks of attending the company wide annual Coach Summit in Nashville last week? You’re the first to know about and try new products!!!!

Beachbody recently released the much anticipated PERFORMANCE line and surprised us all when they announced a new line of “Shakeology boosts” and I was one of the lucky ones to bring home a few tubs!!

I am a firm believer in trying something first before I can recommend it to someone else so I will be sharing my thoughts and reviews as I use each one!!!

Ok, ok…so you’re likely thinking: What is Shakeology Boost?

In my mind it makes me think of walking into any smoothie place and ordering a a shake and tossing in their add ons based on how they’re feeling and what they could use to maybe just feel a wee bit better!!!

Shakeology Boosts are add-ons to Shakeology (or any beverage of choice) that allow an individual to customize a shake for their own specific needs. They are vegan and include NO artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners or preservatives.

But wait…I thought Shakeology was already “the Healthiest meal of the day”?

Okay, valid point – so let me just break it down.

Shakeology truly is the healthiest meal of the day. You can’t beat the combination of superfoods in this meal replacement with just the right breakdown of carbohydrates and protein but sometimes you may just need a little boost? Up all night with the kids or studying for an exam? You may need more energy!!! Lacking the greens you know your body needs but you’ve just been too busy to meal plan or shop or just get it in? Perhaps super greens is the answer! Or maybe you just need a boost to your digestive track – all areas are covered with these boosts!

Who should use boosts?

Shakeology customers with specific health and lifestyle needs that these boosts help support.

Specifically, those with low energy, and that need an additional pick-me-up would be perfect for Focused Energy Boost.
Power Greens Boost is for those who don’t like to eat veggies, or for those days when one simply can’t get enough veggies. Aka – my kiddos!!! I don’t know about you – but getting those veggies into my little ones can be a challenge…hello pasta sauce add in!

Digestive Health Boost is for those looking for the benefits of fiber to help maintain regularity and support digestive health.

FOCUSED ENERGY BOOST – This unique formula is designed to deliver a wholesome boost of energy. The energy comes from 100 mg of natural caffeine from guarana and green tea. This Boost also supports mental clarity, alertness, and focus.

I would recommend trying it a few different ways until you find what works for YOU! I loved my focused energy with my shake in the morning and it left me feeling GREAT all day long!

POWER GREENS BOOST – Power Greens Boost contains veggies like cucumber, kale, and spinach to deliver a full serving of vegetables in each scoop. Plus, this potent Boost supports the body’s natural acid/alkaline balance

For people who like juicing, this is fast, easy, nutritous, and health alternative – you’ll love this! Extra greens =extra nutrients!!! I am gearing up to add this to some pasta sauce to add in those greens for my kiddos who are not always so willing to eat the veggies!!!! Win for mama!!!

DIGESTIVE HEALTH BOOST – With a unique blend of 7 grams of both soluble AND insoluble fiber packed into every single scoop, this formula stands apart from typical fiber supplements that contain only soluble fiber. This powerful Boost helps support regularity and digestive health.

For someone who used to suffer from Chron’s disease (but has been med free for 1 year) I am excited to hear how the Digestive Health Boost improves my daily digestion!!!

If you are ready to start your journey to a healthy lifestyle and would like 1:1 support, as well as help with meal planning and daily accountability, please fill out my application below for a spot in my next fitness challenge.

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Like other supplements offered through Team Beachbody, there is an HD (home delivery) shipment option that will reduce your monthly shipping to one low flat rate and we always support our 30 day money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase!!!

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Note: July 21st marks the US launch date. These boosts will be available in Canada on July 29th.

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As with any supplement, a customer should consult a physician before taking a new supplement if they are pregnant or breast feeding, using prescribed medication, have food allergies, or have specific or recurring health concerns.

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