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Random Tuesday Thoughts

Happy Tuesday!

I apologize for the sporadic posts lately…I’ve been beyond BUSY lately, and I’m just trying to do it all!

Today I’ve got a bunch of random things floating around in my head, so I figured I’d just compile them into a post of random thoughts and the latest happenings in my life!

– I am the type of person that always feels like I need to finish things by the end of the day. This means if I’m given 20 tasks, then I try to figure out a way to do them all that day. This is both a blessing and a curse. I’m a REALLY hard worker and I GSD (get sh&t done) like a MFer! On the other hand, I stress myself out SO much trying to tackle everything. Perfect example, my new ebook: Rockstar Fitness™ Tour Edition. I’m SO excited to release this. I’ve put a TON of work into this project and it’s seriously AWESOME (and pre-sale starts on Wednesday!). On the other hand, it just seems like a never ending project at times. Of course, I know that it will all be worth it, but some nights as I’m working away, I just want to give up on everything. It’s hard to be open about that, as I sometimes feel that people assume I enjoy what I do 100% of the time. I do enjoy it a lot, but I have many moments where I just feel overwhelmed and want to just quit. Sometimes the beach bum life just sounds really tempting. Anyways, I hate to be a negative Nancy, but sometimes it’s good to just be real with people about the struggles of every day life. We all have them. Loving your work doesn’t mean you love every minute of it and it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed at times.

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-My body is totally exhausted this week! Charlie, Oscar and I went on a 6 mile hike in Malibu on Sunday and it actually made me pretty sore. I typically don’t get sore from hiking, but I also have been focusing on strength training, conditioning (usually with KB’s), and track workouts as of late, so I guess mixing it up with a hike really got to me! I still find it interesting that endurance-wise, I still feel just as good as I did when I was doing cardio all the time. I don’t breathe any harder now than I did when I was doing cardio #8daysaweek. It just goes to show that steady state cardio is not the only way to keep your cardiovascular conditioning in check!

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-I have two cool trips planned in the next month! I’m going to Park City in a few weeks to hang with my BFF (literally since I was a kid) since she’s moving there! Then in May, I’ll be heading to the BLEND Retreat in Boulder, CO! I’m excited for some time in the mountains!

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-I got to see my favorite band ever play last week and it was everything I could have asked for!! 36 Crazyfists (yes, i’m a total metal head in case you didn’t know) has been my favorite band for 11 years. I’m a total die-hard fan and I’m still working on fulfilling my dream of visiting Alaska AND seeing them play in their hometown (Anchorage).

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-This guy makes bad days good. He is the sweetest, most playful puppy and he helps me take a step back sometimes and see how simple life is.

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That’s all I’ve got for now….I’ll be back later this week with the details on Rockstar Fitness™ Tour Edition AND with a fun conditioning workout to try!!

Peace out folks!

-LIZZY

Cinnamon Bun Protein Pancake!

Hey peeps! Happy Friday to all! I’m currently on the road to AZ for the weekend. Can’t wait to see my family and get dressed up for a super snazzy event! (pictures to come).

I was recently contacted by DailyBurn to share one of my favorite ways to fuel up using protein powder. As most of you know, I like to eat real foods most of the time, but I do enjoy a protein shake or protein pancake once a day after my workout, for breakfast, or on-the-go.

One of my go-to’s lately has been this super simple protein pancake. I throw it together in just a few seconds, and BAM it’s ready to eat. I eat this after a workout, as part of my breakfast, or if I’m running out the door and don’t have time to make something. It curbs my hunger, helps my muscles recover after a hard workout, and tastes delicious too! What’s not to like?

Cinnamon Bun Protein Pancake

-1 scoop vanilla or cinnamon flavored protein powder ( I use Slap Nutrition, but if you’d like a vegan protein option, try Fuel-6 Vanilla)

-1/2 cup egg whites

-Water (just enough to moisten the protein powder to a paste-like texture)

-Cinnamon to taste

-1/2 packet Stevia

-Blender Bottle

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1. The blender bottle is key! It can be hard to mix the ingredients, so I throw it all in a blender bottle and shake it up really well.

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2. Set your pan to low-medium heat, pour the mixture into the pan, and wait until you see the little bubbles in your pancake (just like regular pancakes!). When you start to see them, it’s time to flip it. Once you flip it, only leave it for about 30-45 seconds so that you don’t overcook it.

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3. Enjoy!

IMG_7376(Okay, so it’s not pretty…but who cares as long as it tastes good, right?!)

5 Things I’m Doing Today to Be Better

Wow, just like that, the holidays are over! I’m a mixture of both happy and sad. It was nice to take a little break, but at the same time, it’s good to be back in my routine!

Anyone else take a little break from healthy habits during the break? Haha, please tell me it wasn’t just me! I kept up with workouts, but definitely indulged a bit on the food front! I don’t regret it at all and it was fun, but I’m ready to be back to my regularly scheduled eating!

5 Things I’m Doing Today to be Better

1. Keeping up with my workouts. While this wasn’t something that went by the wayside during the break, I am definitely planning on stepping it up a bit this week!

2. Eating well. I ate way too much candy and processed foods over the break. It was delicious, but I much prefer my usual fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats! Back on the healthy train this week!

3. Sleeping. I know I do much better when I’ve had adequate rest. I’m going to do my best to get at least 8 hours every night this week.

4. Keep my stress levels down. I am the queen of getting stressed out easily. It’s a really bad habit that needs to be broken. This week I’m going to really focus on what gets me stressed out and work on getting rid of it before it consumes me. It’s not going to be easy, but being aware of it will help immensely.

5. Do something new. I noticed last year that I would talk about a lot of things I wanted to do, but never seemed to find the time to do them. I want to try to do something new every week. I live in LA and there’s a lot to do here. I want to start soaking up all it has to offer.

Question of the Day

What are you doing this week to help you get back on the healthy train?

4 Things I’m Thankful For (okay, actually 8)

Although I’m thankful everyday (or at least I try to be!), I think that Thanksgiving is definitely a good time to reflect and look at all of the wonderful things we have in our lives.

It’s interesting to think back to what I was thankful for, say 5 years ago, vs. what I’m thankful for now. I’m grateful for the life that I live and although sometimes I get stressed out and complain, it really is good. (And I really need to stop complaining..)

I decided to split my list up into the “important” things and the “fun” things I’m thankful for this year.

Let’s start with the fun list!

1. I’m thankful that I get to wear workout clothes to work every day. It sounds silly, but seriously, my life is better because of it. I am a better person when I’m comfortable.

The Iron Fitness crew.

The Iron Fitness crew.

2. I’m thankful for fruit. I love fruit so damn much, I might as well marry it!

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3. Music and recording. It is the ultimate mood changer, and it is one of the few things that has the ability to make me feel every single emotion I can think of. It can make me cry, laugh, yell, smile, sing, you name it! It makes me angry sometimes, it makes me happy as hell sometimes, and overall it just is awesome. I love being able to record music too, even though I don’t do it as often as I used to.

Oscar is producing today.

4. Kombucha. Lord, savior above, thank you for making Kombucha.

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Okay, now for the real things! The things that are the bare bones of me and what makes me whole.

1. My family. This includes my blood relatives and Charlie. Without these people, I am lost. They pick me up, they’re there for me, and I love them dearly.

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2. My friends. I’m talking about my close friends. I don’t have a ton of friends that I can truly say are very near and dear. I have a lot of friends, but the kind of friends that stay with you your whole life? Those are few and far between. I’m lucky to have a few of those.

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3. My job/work life. I work hard, I make a good living, I have the BEST co-workers on the planet and I just love my jobs in general. Are they perfect? No. Do they sometimes make me want to pull my hair out and run away to Fiji? YES! But are they awesome and flexible jobs where I get to work pretty independently and wear workout pants every day? YES.

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4. My ability to move. I can run, jump, swim, bike, throw things, pick things up (and put them down), climb things, you name it!!! THAT is something to be thankful for. Thank you body, you rock.

Fit Lizzio Movement of the Day: Ninja Jumps! These are one of my favorite moves! They're super explosive and fun. They make me feel like a ninja. Start on your knees. Press yourself up to get your feet flat on the group and then explode up as high as you can bringing your knees up as you go. Land softly and absorb the landing by ending in a squat. It takes some practice, so start slow. Start with 3 sets of 5 reps and when you've mastered it, do 3 sets of 10!

I hope you all have a fantastic Thanksgiving! Eat an extra helping of your favorite dish to commemorate this awesome day.

Question of the Day

What are you thankful for? Pick a “fun” one and an “important” one and leave it in the comments below.

Ask me anything!

Hey all!

I write a lot about what I’M thinking about and doing (and I mean, it is MY blog), but I want to help YOU all. After all, that’s why I do this! It is an outlet for me and also a way for me to help others. I read many blogs that have helped me in several ways, so I know how impactful it can be.

With that, I’m opening it up to you all.

Comment with your most burning question about fitness, food, my life, you name it! I’ll be answering your questions on a blog post next week!

Ready…go!!

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5 Ways to Have A Great Monday!

Good morning friends! Another Monday is upon us. I have mixed feelings about  Mondays. I love the fresh feel of a Monday. The chance to start fresh and put last week in the past. At the same time, it can be dreadful. So many things to do, having to get up for work, the thought of getting through a Monday only to have 4 more days to get through as well. I love my jobs, don’t get me wrong, but I love to go on adventures, relax, and do what I feel like at the moment, too!

After making a commitment to myself that I’d never hate my Mondays, I decided to come up with the 5 things that help me have the best Monday possible. Here goes!

1. Coffee.

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I know this is an everyday thing, but a good cup of coffee can make all the difference in the world. If you can, ditch your regular Starbucks and get some GOOD coffee. If you love Starbucks, fine, but I’ve found that there are FAR better places to get a reallllllly good cup of coffee. Groundworks coffee is my favorite….see if any of your local coffee shops offer it!

2. Workout.

Deadlift set up

Like many of you, Mondays are always busy for me. I do know that if I make a point to get up just a bit early and even do a 20 minute workout, I’ll feel better. I feel more alert for the day, it’s easier to get through meetings, and I start the day knowing that I’ve already accomplished something. If you can’t get it in before work, use it as an after-work stress reliever. It is an instant boost of serotonin, which regulates your mood and will help make you feel happy.

3. Take a Walk.

Another gorgeous hiking view.

After meetings and phone calls, take a 10 minute break to just walk. Don’t bring your phone (unless you have to), and just tune out. Take deep breaths, take notice of your surroundings, imagine you’re in a dream vacation spot, and reflect on all the good things you have in life. It sounds so simple, but can really help you to let go of some stress and breathe in greatness. (Look at me sounding all yogi like.)

4. Plan yourself a surprise.

scratcherThis is probably my favorite of them all. On Mondays, I buy two scratchers from 7-11 and tuck them away in my desk drawer for later in the afternoon. Having something to look forward to throughout the day is so much fun! Maybe I’m just a total dork, but it definitely helps me get through the day to know that something special is waiting for me in my desk. Choose whatever gets you a little bit excited. Whether it’s a piece of chocolate, flowers, or your favorite drink, find something that you just can’t wait to have!

5. Rest.

photo(4)Getting a good night’s sleep on Sunday night can make all the difference in the world. Try to wind down a little extra early to ensure you have the energy you’ll need to push through your day.

I hope these tips help make your Monday the BOMB!

Do you have other tips for Mondays that help you get through? Leave them in the comments below!

$500 Reebok Gift Card (GIVEAWAY)

Enter to win the Reebok Fall Fitness Giveaway where both you and I can each win $500 in Reebok gift cards!

***(DETAILS BELOW!)***
**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Hey folks!! Boy, do I have a giveaway for you today!

I don’t know about you, but I LOVEEEE Reebok’s workout gear. I personally own a few pairs of their workout pants and just ordered more the other day! They’re my favorite (Yes, even more than Lululemon) because they stay put, yet don’t cut off your circulation. I’m not sure how they do it, but go Reebok!

Here are some of the items that I’m totally digging right now!

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Love this sports bra!

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I have these and love them!

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The lovely folks at Reebok are GIVING AWAY a $500 gift card to a reader PLUS I’ll get one too if we win! Help me, help you people!!!

Entering is simple:

1. Pick out your favorite fitness item (apparel, shoes, accessories, and more)

2. Post a link to that item in the comments section below.

DEADLINE: AUGUST 31, 2014

Check out Reebok.com from now through August 31st!

That’s it! Reebok will announce their winner on 9/2, and if we win, I’ll announce who my winner is on 9/3! Thanks Reebok for making staying fit fun!

*Open to US Residents Only

 

Workouts for the Week + BIG BEAR!

Woohoo, we’re halfway through the week! It feels good. I don’t know about you guys, but I’m still pretty bummed about the passing of Robin Williams. I was fortunate enough to meet the guy, and he was just as nice and funny as he is in his movies. I don’t usually get this way when a celebrity passes away, but for some reason I think Robin Williams’ death has hit a lot of people much harder than usual.

Circa....2008?

Circa….2008?

Aside from that, this week has been pretty good. I did a tough workout on Monday and then did a tough leg workout Tuesday. Today I plan on bouldering and maybe just foam rolling. My body is kind of…..toast.

I am heading to Big Bear Lake with my man tomorrow for a few days of relaxation, hiking, and WAKEBOARDING!!! So my fitness will all be outdoors towards the end of the week.

Here’s my week:

Monday: Shoulders & Chest + KB Burpees (video below)

Tuesday: Legs & Plyos (Squats, Squat Jumps, Walking Lunges, KB Goblet Squats w/ Rotation, Jumping Lunges)

Wednesday: Bouldering + Foam Roll & Stretch

Thursday: Hiking in Big Bear

Friday: WAKEBOARDING!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (my favorite thing on the planet if you couldn’t tell)

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Hope everyone has a great rest of the week! I’ll be back next week with some photos, recipes, and more workouts!!

 

6 Week Challenge Details

Hey friends! Happy Wednesday! Hope your week is going well. I’m working away, but having a pretty good week so far. Monday was definitely a MONDAY, but so far the rest of the week has been pretty good. I’m excited to relax a bit this weekend too, or at least attempt to. I always say that and then find 1,454,756 things to do and end up being pretty busy. Guess we’ll see how I’m feelin’!

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On Monday, I mentioned that a friend and I were going to tighten up our diets a bit and do a 6 week challenge with each other. We are both in pretty good shape and eat pretty well already, but we both want to take it to the next level!

I wanted to share the details of what we’re doing, so here goes.

6 Week Challenge Details

-Clean/healthy eating M-F (clean meaning minimally or not processed whole foods)

-Saturdays & Sundays: eat what we want within a certain calorie range (this will allow us to be able to satisfy our cravings without going overboard)

-Work out 5-6 days per week (we already do this, but will continue).

-Cut out breads/tortillas and keep our carbohydrate choices to sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa, & brown rice pasta

-Cut out sweets and desserts during the week (we can fit it into our weekends if we want it!)

-Lots of fruits and veggies

-Lots of protein: chicken, ground turkey, lean ground beef and other lean red meats, fish

-Healthy fats: avocados, coconut oil, olive oil, nuts, and nut butters

Why We Aren’t Setting a “Meal Plan”

In my experience, a meal plan sets me up for failure. Even if you are getting enough food and like the food you’re eating, it automatically sets a restriction right from the start. This makes you feel deprived immediately, even if you’re not. By setting some guidelines and not creating a carved out meal plan, I think we will have more success.

Progress

We’ll be tracking our progress here on the blog. I’ll be doing a weekly post to recap how the previous week went and to check in with measurements, weight, and photos. We will be taking photos later, so stay tuned for those!

Feel free to join us on the 6 week challenge! Each recap I do, I’d love for you to chime in with comments on how you’re doing on your own challenge! Your challenge can be the same as ours, or you can do something that fits your goals better and post about that. I love working with people as a team, so the more the merrier!

Questions? Feel free to drop me a line at [email protected]

See you guys tomorrow with some photos!

Have you ever done a challenge?

What is your biggest goal RIGHT NOW?

Reebok Discount!!

**This post contains affiliate links and I will be minimally compensated if you make a purchase after using my links. 

Hey guys!!

I know, popping in for a SECOND time in 1 day. Craziness, I tell ya!

BUT, for all my runner, Crossfitter, weight lifter friends out there….Reebok Outlet is giving an additional $15 off TODAY ONLY. (Yes, I make a small smidgen off of your sale, but really I just think this is a good deal that should be shared. I could share affiliate links all day, but I don’t because I’m not a spammerjammer.)

Annyyyways, I normally don’t share this type of thing, but I know I’d be into it, so maybe you will be too!

All you have to do is use the coupon code SHOES15 to grab the deal. 

Hurry up before I buy ALLTHESHOES. (May have already bought 2 pairs….:-D)

 

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