Blueberry Superfood Smoothie

Woke up bright and early, ready to take on the day...feelin' like I need a powerful smoothie to take on all the day has for me! This did the trick, thought I would share with you for those times you need an extra dose of nutritious deliciousness! This smoothie is packed full of antioxidants, fiber and heart healthy fats. Not only is the smoothie itself SO good, but I created a little crunchy topping for it using just raw cacao and coconut oil which may just be my new favorite thing!

 

In a blender, pour 8 oz. almond or hemp milk along with 1 Tbsp chia seeds. Let sit for a few minutes

To that, add 1/2 frozen banana, 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, stevia drops, cinnamon and vanilla extract to taste. For optional extra nutrition, add 1 Tbsp maca powder and 1 cup frozen kale.

Blend well and pour into a frosted mug. Top with 1 Tbsp raw cacao nibs drizzled with 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil.

Let the coconut oil harden up and it becomes a delish, crunchy topping to your fabulous, crazy healthy smoothie!



 

Great Gatsby Themed Zumba!

 

We love a reason to get dressed up at the Inspired Fitness Studio! Themed Zumba classes are such a fun way to celebrate birthdays...and they always seem to make class even more exciting!!

 

This week, we celebrated our Barre instructor Melanie's birthday with a Great Gatsby inspired Zumba class.

 

 

 

 Nothing like a room full of grown women playing dress up!

Whoever said working out is serious and boring?! Not these ladies!

 

Life Transformation! Inspired By Amber

Amber one year ago...and Amber now!

Amber gets to the Studio even after a long day at work, and always puts in 100%! She has had an amazing body transformation and is always pushing toward her fitness goals. Yet her true transformation is developing in the way that she now better able to love her body and to be proud of her accomplishments! She truly is an inspiration! Find out a little more about Amber:

 

What brought you to Inspired Fitness?

I was introduced to, “Inspired Fitness” by a couple of friend’s local here to the Desert Region. I didn’t officially try out any classes until my friend, Staci encouraged me to go with her. I’m pretty shy, so sometimes it takes a little “hand holding” to get me to try new things and get me out of my shell.

Amber & Jenna at the Diva Dash 5k

 What is your motivation to keep coming back to the classes?

My motivation to keep me coming back would have to be a combination of a few things. To be completely honest, I have a horrible body image issue and I’ve been working on that. It’s very inspiring to see the changes in my body after joining Inspired Fitness Studio this year; it’s boosting my self-esteem and making me a happier person! Also, the environment of the studio as well as the people that attend are amazing! There’s room to dance and exercise without bumping into your “neighbor”, Jenna is so cheerful and greets everyone that walks through the door as one of her friends and I especially like that not everyone is a “pro” at the exercises. That, in itself helps me be at ease because I know I don’t have to do certain exercises “just perfect” (there is a learning curve, and each individual is at a different fitness level).

What is your favorite class?

My favorite class that is offered…. Oh my goodness, this is so hard! I have many, many favorites but I think my number one favorite is Barre, Piyo is a close second and then I love the Arms and Abs class. Each class challenges me in a different way and I believe I see the most changes in my body from these classes. Barre is amazing!! Barre is AMAZING!! Did I mention Barre is AH-MAZE-INGGG?!?! (Totally addicting, I wish it was 1 hour, hint hint!)

 

Amber with other Inspired Fitness Piyo girls!

What are some of your goals?

Goals that I would like to accomplish is to get fit, lose body fat and lean out, feel healthy and to start eating “clean”. I now know that even though I have come a long way through diet and exercise, it’s time to start “nourishing” my body instead of “dieting” my body.

 What do you think is your best feature?

What is my best feature? Oh my goodness that is a broad question and it can be so many different things. I suppose I will go “internally” and say that my best feature is my mellow attitude and my kindness. I love just going with the flow and not stressing the small stuff. I’m very laid back and likeable! I also love doing little things for others when they least expect it. When my family and friends smile, it makes me smile!

What would you say to someone feeling discouraged in their attempt to live a healthier lifestyle?

What I’ve always told people is that they need to really “WANT IT”. Want it so bad that they live and breathe it, but to not stress out over it. If you make unhealthy choices one day, it’s okay! Start over again, but start NOW (not tomorrow or after the weekend). If you miss a work out or couldn’t get out of bed early enough to exercise, oh well make more time on another day. If it’s important to you, you’ll find a way! Research what works for you; don’t just take everyone’s word on it. What diet and exercise that works for them may not work for you. Also, find someone that you can buddy up with, it holds you accountable! Last thing is to find things that you enjoy doing and stick to it, but try things that are new to you as well. It’s important to incorporate many different exercises into your routine so you don’t get stuck in a rut! I believe that all of those things are good for you mentally and physically.

 

 If you could do one thing and know you wouldn’t fail...what would you do?

I would start my own business. I have so many interests and passions that I don’t know what it would be around? I have always, always, always (since I was in my early 20’s) wanted to start a health food and vitamin/herbal store with a juice bar. I know… cheesy but I think it would be really awesome and fun!

 Tell us one Fun Fact about you..!

I love to cook ethnic food! Anything from Indian to Mexican. I’m heavily influenced by cultures because I grew up around UCR in Riverside and our neighbors were from many different countries attending the University (they loved to feed us). I’m also influenced by my Hispanic heritage; I cook a very rustic and delicious style of Spanish rice. YUM!

 

Spring Peach & Blueberry Muffins

I LOVE to bake! Yet with my crazy busy schedule I don't get the chance to as much as I'd like. My dog decided on this lovely Saturday morning that 4am seemed like a good time to wake up, which means I'm up to. So with some extra free time, I felt inspired to put together a recipe for a Bake Sale I will be helping out in this Sunday!

This summer I am traveling to Guadalajara to work in a soup kitchen and to lead local kids in fitness classes! Couldn't be more excited! The Bake Sale is helping to raise money for the trip (to find out how you can help..get in touch!!)

There is no reason why baked goods cant be great, wholesome fuel for our bodies...so this is a yummy recipe that is loaded with nutritious ingredients and is gluten free for better digestion. Give it a try! Enjoy with a warm cup of tea as an afternoon snack or a bowl of fruit for a refreshing breakfast!

 

1 cup gluten free all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups rolled oats (I used gluten free oats)
1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp cinnamon
 1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
1 egg
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 1/2 cup blueberries
 1/2 cup chopped peaches
Topping
1/4 cup oatmeal
2 Tbsp brown sugar

 

1.Preheat oven to 400F. Line muffin tins with paper cups.

2. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl.

I used sugar, you could try a substitute like agave or honey, not sure how it will turn out but give it a go if you'd like! I don't eat sugar often, so I'm ok with a little every now and then

 3. In a separate bowl mix together milk, egg, oil, and vanilla.

4. Mix wet ingredients into the dry ones, don't over mix! Just until combined

5. Fold in blueberries and peaches.

6. Divide the mixture in 12 muffin tins.

7. In a small bowl combine 1/4 cup oatmeal with 2 tablespoons of sugar and sprinkle on each muffin.

again, a little sugar which you could substitute
 8. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes.

 

9. Let cool on a baking sheet or you could eat them warm right out of the oven! Hope you like!

Diva Dash 2013

A team of four rock star Inspired Fitness girls left early Saturday morning and made our way to San Diego for the Diva Dash 5k obstacle run!

 

It was a fabulous day full of challenges, laughs, great weather and great food! We finished the race with an impressive time (at least we were impressed with ourselves!) Then we detoured a little on the way home to have a well deserved lunch at Native Foods for some Scorpion Burgers and sweet potato fries!

 

Awesome job ladies...a pleasure spending the day with you!

 

Light & Fresh Greek Wrap

It's starting to warm up! On days like this..when I just want to sit on the patio and enjoy the sunshine...there is nothing that sounds better then a clean, light and fresh wrap for lunch! Next time your feeling like a delicious and healthy wrap...give this a try! Yum!

 

 

Get yourself a sprouted or whole grain tortilla and spread your favorite hummus on top. Slice up cucumbers and bell peppers, chop up artichoke hearts (I used canned artichoke hearts..drain and pat dry) then place on top of the tortilla. Put a good amount of greens over the veggies, drizzle some olive oil or balsamic vinaigrette and top it all off with some light feta cheese! Quick, easy, and SO good! Enjoy with a little side salad or fresh fruit or you could even add a little grilled chicken for protein! Good to go!

Living Life Inspired!

Olivia Leschnik walks into the Studio and is a ray of sunshine! Get to know a little about her- and be Inspired!

 

 

What brought you to Inspired Fitness?

I’d been wanting to join the studio since I first met Jenna at Sprout’s where I was cashiering in Dec.2011 and was finally able to go the following January to Jenna’s Zumba class with the acclaimed Kiya when we decided we were going to feel better about ourselves

 What is your motivation to keep coming back to the classes?

I’m improving! I really love being as proud of myself and loving myself as much as I have been lately! I’m seeing changes that I like and I know that every day I come to class I’m a step closer to where I want to be.

What is your favorite class?

It’s hard to say because each class has it’s own beautiful gift to offer. But if I have to choose it would be Thursday night Yoga Sculpt. Jenna does such a great job at setting a calming atmosphere and after every class I feel as if my body is thanking me for the great stretch.    (Love that!)

What is a goal you have for the New Year?

I want to experience and enjoy more of what life has to offer than I did last year.

What do you think is your best feature?

“Thank you, mama, for my legs!”    (Girl’s got great legs!)

What would you say to someone feeling discouraged in their attempt to live a healthier lifestyle?

Love and forgive yourself. You should be so proud for making the decision to live a healthier lifestyle…I know you can do it!

 If you could do one thing and know you wouldn’t fail...what would you do?

Be a professional singer! Broadway, opera, mainstream, voice talent for a cartoon, anything like that.

 Tell us one Fun Fact about you!

Olivia means “olive tree” in French, and I have a birth mark on my knee that kind of looks like an olive tree  (That is fun!)

Inspired Fitness Ladies Lunch

 

Saturday, March 9th

$10

Enjoy a yummy and healthy lunch catered by Luscious Lorraine and in the company of fabulous ladies from the Studio! You could even plan to take Zumba that morning at 10am and then stay for lunch right after! Get to know the ladies you stand next to in class and feel good about the delish food we will be enjoying!

 

If you are able to lunch with us- Please register with Jenna and have your $10 so we can reserve your spot, make sure we have food for you, and enter your name into the drawing for items being given away that day!

 

Dont miss this-It is always SO much fun when the ladies get together!

Finding the Beautiful You

Do you believe that you already have a beautiful body inside? You wont ever be able to completely alter your frame and body type...maybe you're naturally curvy or maybe your tall and straight up and down. Everyone has something they are critical about when it comes to their body...most of the time that little voice in the back of our head is the biggest critic of all. You were intended to have the body you are in, and being it's best doesn't mean striving for something radically different then what you're working with. We can look and feel beautiful when we are finally able to work at our greatest potential, being rid of negative thoughts, and being kind to our bodies.

 

Very few people actually exercise regularly, and yet Americans spend a ridiculous amount of money on pills, weight loss shakes, trendy diet fads...that all may be quick "fixes" but are ultimately terrible for your health and can send you into an emotional cycle that leaves you with a bad relationship with your body. (Believe me I know..I've been there)

 

 

To be successful and to learn to appreciate and love your body for what it is and be thankful for what you are able to do..it comes down to committing to be your best, planning ahead, and making it routine! Commit to putting in the effort to find your most beautiful, healthy self. At the start of your week, plan on the days that you will be going to classes or when you will carve out that 20 minutes at home to do a video. Put away the distractions (phone, computer, etc..) Clear the time, and stick to it! Lastly, make it routine by doing it consistently until it just becomes a part of your life. Maybe you team up with a buddy so your can keep each other accountable. Don't be afraid to reach out to trusted friends and ask for encouragement..maybe to be pushed a little. You are beautiful, you deserve to feel beautiful!

 

 

Pure & Natural Skin Care-The Favorites!

Pick up a skin care product from the drugstore or makeup counter and read the list of ingredients on the back. There's a good chance you dont know what half the list even is or what it's doing for your skin. Would you open up the bottle, squirt some into your mouth and swallow? Most likely not...So why are we putting products on our body that we dont want in our body?
I am a huge fan of good nutrition..for my body as well as my skin. I want to use things that I know are full of antioxidants, that will slow the aging process, and that aren't filling my body with toxic chemicals. You can use real foods, right on your skin..that will provide amazing skin care benefits and will save you tons of money!

Here are the two remedies that are my personal favorites:

Energizing Mint Toner- Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Add 2 mint tea bags and turn off heat. Let sit for 10 minutes then take out the tea bags. Pour mixture into a clean bowl and add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. That's it! Use a cotton ball to wipe this over your face or you can put it in a small spray bottle and lightly mist over your skin after cleansing. The mint cools and relaxes the skin and apple cider vinegar helps normalize the PH balance of the skin.

Rejuvenating Strawberry Mask- Mix 2 or 3 mashed strawberries with 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 Tablespoon of plain yogurt. Apply the mask in a thin layer on your skin, kick back and relax for about 15 minutes then rinse off with warm water. Strawberries are full of Vitamin C and also contain a gentle acid that that removes dead skin cells. Your are left with fresh, soft skin.

Feel free to give these a try or research natural, home made skin care for yourself! Remember healthy skin is beautiful skin!

Valentines Day Couples Class!

 

 This Thursday is Valentine's Day! How about if this year, instead of eating a box of chocolates and went out to a full course heavy dinner, you took a fitness class with your special someone! Save the dinner date for the weekend or maybe even go for ice cream after class.

We will combine Arms&Abs and Yoga Sculpt for a great class for you two to do together! Get in touch with Jenna with any questions- Hope to see you for some Valentine's Day Fitness Fun!

Class Begins at 6pm

Top 5 Most Important Skin Care Products

I know when you wake up in the morning...most of the time craziness of life begins right when you open your eyes! Maybe most nights you are so exhausted you just want to splash some water on your face and call it a day. I want to encourage you to take the extra few minutes in the morning/evening to show your skin some love! Your skin care regimen today will make all the difference in what you look like 10..20 years from now. Remind yourself that you are worth the effort and make the investment in good quality products with as pure ingredients as possible. Here are the 5 most effective skin care products that you want to include in your daily skin care routine.

 

Cleansers: Remove dirt, oil, makeup from your skin with the use of either a gel or cream cleanser. Gel cleansers are typically better for more oily skin, made to purify and refresh. Cream cleansers are great for more dry skin since they usually contain oils that moisturize and hydrate the skin. Of course you can also find cleansers for "normal" skin, or that are suitable for all skin types.

Toners: Maybe my most favorite product! It feels so cool and refreshing as you mist it on to your face! I have oily skin so it really helps to absorb any excess oil on the surface of my skin. These products can be a bit drying so it's not necessary for you to use a toner. You may see the word astringent which is suitable for very oily skin. Toners and tonics are great for normal/combination skin.
Exfoliators: When using a cream or gel scrub, which has tiny little abrasive particles, massage onto damp skin and clear away dead surface cells...revealing fresh, young new cells. Exfoliating is one of the best things you can do (that usually isn't done often enough) to prevent blemishes and fine lines. Use a gentle scrub can be used as often as needed, usually every other day or every couple of days. Getting a facial with a licensed professional Esthetician can give you a deeper exfoliation, maybe even a peel, which should be done every couple of months.
Eye Cream: You may have already noticed, the delicate skin around your eyes is usually the first to show signs of aging. Don't waste your money on cheap eye creams...they are most likely doing nothing at all. You don't want to mess around with that very thin skin under your eyes, invest in a good quality cream or gel that will plump the fine lines and reduce puffiness.
Moisturizers: The main purpose of a moisturizer is to build a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. This makes your skin feel smoother and softer. Even if you have oily skin..ALL skin types need a moisturizer! If you have really dry skin you would need a thicker moisturizer, and more oily skin can go with an oil free moisturizer. For day time moisturizers, apply before makeup and make sure it contains UV protection. For night time apply liberally and allow it to really nourish and pamper your skin as you sleep.

Ta Da!! On your way to smooth, healthy, protected skin..you just need to commit to caring for your skin, your Face! I know it can be overwhelming since there are thousands of different products to pick from. Don't waste your money on cheap products. And don't be fooled by skin care labeled "natural", "organic", etc. The FDA does not regulate cosmetics so products can contain just a small percentage of effective ingredients but can be marketed to promise everything you are looking for!  Try to stay away from ingredients like Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, sodium lauryl sulfate. Beautiful skin is healthy skin! Your best bet to finding pure, good quality skin care may actually be to check out your local health food store (Clark's has a great variety). Good luck! No one else will take care of your skin..it's like working out, put in the effort and make smart choices- see the benefits!

Healthy Skin is Beautiful Skin!

Inspired Fitness Studio is now offering Facials! It has been a long time coming, but we now have a set up in the back of the studio to take care of your skin care needs. Inspired Fitness owner, Jenna Fisher is not only passionate about fitness- as a CA licensed Esthetician she is also passionate about healthy skin care!

Each facial includes: a cleanse, warm steam, deep exfoliation, extractions, a facial massage, hand and arm massage, purifying or hydrating mask, and moisturizer.

You get all this for only $65

At Inspired Fitness we value the health of our bodies, now it's time to value the health of your skin...because healthy skin is beautiful skin!

Get in touch with Jenna to schedule your appointment today!

Skin Care and Wellness Workshops coming soon!

Workout in the Park

Doing the classes at Inspired Fitness with all my favorite ladies is by far my most favorite way to get in a workout. But sometimes I do enjoy getting outside, soaking up the sunshine and changing it up a little. I met up with my sister Claire to take her though our Park Workout.

 

 Sunday afternoon and nothing to do? Taking the kids to the park and want to get in something for you to? Now you can follow along with our routine to help you get ideas of how to use regular park equipment to get in an effective workout!

 

-Start with a jog to warm up. Try for at least a lap around the whole park.

 

 

 

 

 

-We started with calf raises to stretch and get the legs working. Stand on the curb and let your heels hang off the back for more range of motion as you lift your heels up and then lower down.

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

-Still working legs, find a bench (we used the skate park) Place on foot up and step the other out as you lower your hips down to a squat. Go for 20 on one side then switch and do the other.

 

 

More Cardio- Take the heart rate back up by standing next to a curb, feet a little wider then hip width a part. Bend the knees and jump up to the curb, then jump back down. Maybe stop and do this between every couple of exercises.

 

 Bench Dips- Sit on a bench or the bottom of the slide. Place your hands next to your sides as you lift and move your hips forward. Just bending at the elbows, lower your hips down and then back up. Should feel your triceps working. Go for 3 sets of 12

 

 

Pop up and hold yourself in a plank position. You can be on the ground or you can elevate your feet to make your push ups a little more intense. Go for 10 pushups, then hold your plank again for another 10 seconds.

 

Last one for arms- monkey bar pull ups. We didn't have a monkey bar to use, so we went with this tire on the playground. Get a nice grip, walk your feet in, again standing hip width a part. Lean back, then pull your chest forward toward the bar and back again. 3 sets of 12

 

 

Abs! V-Sit ups, Find a nice spot on the grass and lay on your back with your legs extended forward and arms back. Raise your arms and legs as you fold up in a "V" and then lower back down- Stop just before touching the grass.

 

                  

 

Finish up your core work with leg lifts and hanging sit ups. (Careful getting down from your hanging sit ups! This bar was pretty high off the ground)

 

 

Make sure you save time to stretch after your workout! Give the park workout a go and let me know how you do! Stay updated on all the outdoors activities with Inspired Fitness! Hikes and park workouts happening at least once a month!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meet the Inspiring Miss Judy Such!

To start the year we're looking to our friend Judy for

some inspiration!

 

 *What brought you to Inspired Fitness?

My friend and co-worker Marion raving about how great the classes were and the results she was achieving.

*What is your motivation to keep coming back to the classes?

The results I see with inches lost, toned muscles and more energy
*What is your favorite class?
Body Blast and Yoga

*What is a goal you have for the New Year?
To stay healthy and to travel as much as possible

*What do you think is your best feature?
My hair!

*What would you say to someone feeling discouraged in their attempt to live a healthier lifestyle?

Give yourself time and be consistent so you can see results from workouts and better diet.

*If you could do one thing and know you wouldn’t fail...what would you do?

I would not attempt anything that has certain success. The fun is in the journey and the challenge

*Tell us a Fun Fact about you…

I have owned and have ridden my own Harley motorcycle; have been part of the crew of an endurance race boat team; took airplane flying lessons; completed the ASA basic sailing course and sailed to Catalina Island and back!

(She’s our kinda lady!!)

Nothing Like a Warm Cookie on a Cold Winter Day!

I don't know about you, but the thought of a warm oatmeal cookie with chocolate chunks melting in your mouth with each bite...sounds like the perfect treat for one of these super cold winter nights we've had lately! However, it is January and I know most of us have resolved to make healthier choices and to take better care of our bodies, SO...here is my recipe that wont disappoint on taste but also provides heart healthy and slimming fiber, antioxidants, cholesterol lowering healthy fats and some protein! This is a cookie you can indulge in as well as share with your family and feel good about it! 

(Go ahead and hug me now)

You can add just about anything to a basic oatmeal cookie, again...make smart choices! You dont want a healthy basic oatmeal cookie and then go and add butterfinger..M&Ms..etc. Instead think walnuts, raisins, chopped apples...For my cookies today, I am using unsweetened shaved coconut and 85% dark chocolate. When you use chocolate, remember higher the percentage the better! Less sugar and higher antioxidant content.

Dry:
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups of Rolled Oats
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 Tbsp Cinnamon
Wet:
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup canola oil  (heart healthy)
1 egg plus one egg white (beat with 1 Tbsp Water)
1 tsp Vanilla
Add:
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut
1/3 cup chopped dark chocolate

In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together.

 

 

In a medium bowl, mix all the wet ingredients together. Tip: When measuring out the honey, measure the oil first then use the same cup for the honey. Your honey won't stick to the cup. Or spray the measuring cup with cooking oil spray if you're not using oil.

 

Mix the wet ingredients with the dry. Add the coconut and chocolate and mix. If the mixture seems too wet, add a bit of flour.

 

 

Preheat the oven to 335 degrees
 

Spray baking sheet with non stick cooking spray and drop cookies onto sheet. Lightly press down with a fork for even cooking.

Bake for about 15 - 18 minutes or until golden on the bottom of the cookie. Yum!