tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32227120874320535652024-03-05T02:28:33.724-08:00AmyZumbaAmy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-9983550414400475592013-06-24T19:19:00.000-07:002013-06-24T19:29:35.259-07:00"It doesn't get easier, you just get better"<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">During Zumba class today I was looking around at all of the people that have been doing Zumba with me for quite awhile. Some since I began 3 1/2 years ago. I see them on a pretty regular basis and have grown to love each one. This includes those who were not present at this particular class.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We were having fun and sweating when it occurred to me just how good and how far they had come. I wish that I had a video of them when they first began coming to class. I see them move more in unison and with emotion and agility. I don't even think that they know how much better they are. I am so proud of all of them!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have an age range of mid 70's down to 20's. I like to say that this is the fountain of youth! Moving and exercise and eating a well-balanced diet is the fountain of youth and I am seeing it first hand. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As the class progressed I was reminded of the quote I used in my e-mail this week "It doesn't get easier, you just get better". This is very powerful and true. While my dance fitness songs and routines change, it doesn't get harder per se. They have just gotten better, and in turn it starts to feel easier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Some people are paralyzed with the fear that they won't be good at something so they don't even try. Maybe they have failed before, and think they will fail again. The only way you can fail at something is to give up. What is wrong with starting over every day? Doing the best you can do with what you have is success.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When we are born, it is not an easy journey into the world. From then on we are struggling to move and learn. As we practice, we get better. Rolling, then crawling, then walking etc... None of it was easy as we started out, but we didn't give up and it got easier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There is a gal in the Zumba Fitness organization who has no legs. She does Zumba from her wheelchair. She moves and grooves with everyone. What a great feeling to know that everyone can move with their own abilities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I guess my point is that it is never too late to decide to improve your life, your body, your health, your wealth. Step outside your comfort zone, and see what happens. It may not be easy at first, but it will be worth it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-79829078570413473222013-01-06T14:13:00.000-08:002013-01-06T14:13:00.514-08:00A Little Rant about Gastric BypassWell, it's been since September 2012 that I have posted anything. I'm going to use my blog as a platform to vent a bit about an article that I recently read. <br />
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Starting out a new year, almost everyone is into resolutions for health and fitness. The fact is that seventy-five percent keep resolutions for about a week. That figure drops to about 71 percent after two weeks, and after a month only about one-third are still maintaining the promises to make positive lifestyle changes. By the summer, fewer than half can even remember their resolutions, let alone keep them.<br />
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For most things in life, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be successful at accomplishing a goal. Whether it is a career, ministering, acting, losing weight, exercising...all take a lot of planning, organizing, discipline and constant goal setting. Most things in life that are worthwhile are worth working toward. So why is it that the one most important thing that we have to take care of gets neglected the most? Why do we fuel our bodies with mediocre, or worse, food and let them sit idle and collect life-threatening diseases? We are our own worst enemy, and want an easy fix. Well, I'm sorry, there is no easy fix. However, there is a lot of help out there for people to lose weight, gain more energy, become younger and enjoy life longer. But in my opinion, Gastric Bypass is NOT the answer.<br />
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I just recently read an article in our local newspaper about a 54 year old woman who had Gastric Bypass surgery. One of the main headline's says "Local woman's journey to health provides pointers." As I read the article, I kept waiting to hear how HARD the journey had been. How sickly this person was for months and how much of a struggle it was. Not once was that mentioned. I happen to know that she was very sick for months!<br />
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The people that I personally know who have had this surgery have had to lose 40-50 lbs before even getting the surgery. Once having it, they cannot eat hardly anything, and I mean less than what a bird would eat. Each one has been in and out of the hospital near death throughout the first year. One person that I know died from the surgery! For the rest of your life you are going to have to eat a certain way and exercise or the weight will not stay off. So not only do you still have to change your lifestyle, but you have the added bonus of being horribly sick and risking death on top of it.<br />
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Does this sound like an easy journey? I ponder this question because so many people think that eating healthy and exercising is hard. Well, I would say it is a lot easier than what you go through with the surgery. We always have things in life that we don't want to do, but we do them because we HAVE to. i.e. cleaning the bathrooms, going to work, shoveling snow, raking grass, doing chores...why not treat the best thing you have like you want to keep it? <br />
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I have a friend who has lost over 100lbs this last year WITHOUT surgery. There were no pills, shots or drastic diets. This is someone who has a thyroid problem (used to be an excuse), high blood pressure and other health issues. Her doctor, many times, tried talking her into the gastric bypass surgery, but thankfully, she didn't do it. One day she just decided that she would start eating healthier. Not diet. Not try to lose weight (because she had tried everything), but just eat healthier. Guess what? The weight started coming off. She then became more aware of what she was eating, and added exercise. She did this for her, and the results started to spread into other areas of her life. You see, when you take care of yourself it becomes easier to take care of others and other things in your life. She is now way down on her thyroid and blood pressure medicine. One of the surprising results she has gotten is how many people have asked her what pills she was taking or wouldn't believe that she didn't have some sort of surgery! <br />
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Has it gotten that bad, that people think if you are morbidly obese you cannot lose weight and be healthy without surgery?!<br />
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Here's the thing that I don't get, when people choose bypass they have to lose so much weight before even proceeding with the surgery. If you are losing 40-50 lbs already, why not keep going? You are losing the weight without the bypass...something you thought that you couldn't do in the first place.<br />
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Another thing that bothers me is why are so many doctors recommending the surgery? There are a couple of things that I thought might be the case. My first thought was money, but I still believe most doctors are in their profession to help people not just make a buck. Therefore, my next thought was that they have probably told their patients over and over that they needed to lose weight and exercise. Maybe they've said it so many times that they are worn out. The morbidly obese will only have a short time to live so doing the surgery may force them into a healthier lifestyle and give them some more years to live. The Doc may be at a desperation point to save a life.<br />
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Here are a few guidelines to follow this year on a healthy journey without surgery:<br />
1. Start small<br />
2. Change behaviors one at a time.<br />
3. Talk about it.<br />
4. Don't beat yourself up.<br />
5. Ask for support. <br />
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In closing, I would just like to say that for 2013 don't make a resolution. Make a lifestyle change so that you can enjoy every aspect of your life. May you be full of energy, happy and around for a long time!<br />
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Thanks for letting me vent:)<br />
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<br />Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-26980203763634047862012-09-24T19:06:00.001-07:002012-09-24T19:16:28.118-07:00Oh the Possibilities!Today was the first time that I can remember in my life that I'm not trying to lose weight. This is a huge step for me. I was shocked at how relieved and content I have been all day. That is what I want for everyone in my program! <br />
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Total Life Fitness explained: My hope for you:) <br />
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Welcome to the rest of your life. Ask yourself if you want to be happy with yourself, your family, your friends and co-workers. Do you want to be content and see the world through eyes that are free of the burdens that stress puts on your body and mind? Do you go through your day constantly wanting to feel better, deep down knowing what you should do, but really not sure how to pull it all together to fit your lifestyle? Always trying a fad diet, magic pill or the latest thing you should or shouldn't eat of a certain food group? I've been there and done that!! <br />
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I want to explain what Total Life Fitness is all about. The main goal and my main mission is to help people live life to the fullest and be happy. I don't have a magic pill, I don't have every answer to every problem (although I would try to find out), I can't do the work for you. I will find out what you want in life to be the strongest, happiest and healthiest that your body and mind can be. This can be as simple as playing with your children or grandchildren, to getting off certain meds, to just enjoying each and every day that you are given.<br />
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Wouldn't it be a wonderful thing to not be burdened constantly with the worry of what you are going to eat every minute of the day? What you will do for exercise? When you should exercise? How you will get everything done? Nothing will be perfect, but figuring out the lifestyle that is best for you and enjoying the rest of your life by living that lifestyle is what I can help you with.<br />
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As far as the nutrition portion of Total Fitness goes, I enjoy food. My goal is to teach moderation in everything you eat. There is not a lot that is banned in my plan, but I push healthy food. Healthy food can be very tasty especially nowadays with all of the wonderful recipes flying around on the net. Restaurants have lots of great tasting choices on their menus now. There are many things that we go over as to what is healthy, and I make sure that you know what a balanced eating plan is. This is for life, not a few months and then go back to your old eating ways. There are plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, water, etc... This is a realistic approach to living healthy for the long term (meaning something you will stick too).<br />
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I hope that this clears up some questions as to what my whole program is about. Of course, I fell in love with Zumba so if you need a first step then be sure to come to a class! Fun and fitness that doesn't feel like a workout. A huge stress buster, what more could you ask for?<br />
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You may call me (816) 262-7037 anytime to set up a consultation or e-mail me at bjskatecenter@gmail.com. The web site is www.amyzumba.com where I can also be contacted.<br />
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Make this a step toward your future for a stronger, healthier, happier life!!<br />
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<br />Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-77851889129454150132012-08-16T09:20:00.001-07:002012-08-16T09:21:03.909-07:00Zumba is fun & works! Here's proof!<br />
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<b> Article by ACE Fitness</b><br />
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<b>By Mary Luettgen, M.S., John P. Porcari, Ph.D., Carl Foster, Ph.D., Richard Mikat, Ph.D., and Jose Rodriguez-Morroyo, Ph.D.</b><br />
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Zumba fitness has quickly grown to one of the most popular group exercise classes on the planet. In fact, the Latin-dance inspired workout is reportedly performed by more than 12 million people at 110,000 sites, in 125 countries around the world.<br />
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“Ditch the Workout – Join the Party!” That’s the marketing slogan for Zumba fitness, which attracts exercisers with a fun fusion of dance moves from styles like Salsa, Merengue, Reggaeton and Flamenco, and the sort of choreography you might see in a nightclub.<br />
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“Historically, aerobic dance was always like paint by the numbers,” says John Porcari, Ph.D., of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse’s Department of Exercise and Sport Science. “I think sometimes people get frustrated if dance steps get too intricate and complicated. But Zumba fitness leaves more room for interpretation. And it’s non-judgmental. You don’t have to move exactly like the instructor. It’s more like dancing in a club—people can just move the way they want.”<br />
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Just because Zumba fitness is fun, however, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s an effective workout. Despite its immense popularity, to date very little research has been done to document the potential benefits of this form of aerobic dance. So the American Council on Exercise, the nation's Workout Watchdog®, commissioned Dr. Porcari and his team of exercise scientists to determine whether Zumba fitness provides a workout, a party or both.<br />
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The Study<br />
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Led by Porcari and Mary Luettgen, M.S., researchers from the University’s Department of Exercise and Sport Science set out to determine the average exercise intensity and energy expenditure during a typical Zumba fitness class. First they recruited 19 healthy female volunteers, ages 18 to 22, all of whom had previous experience participating in Zumba classes.<br />
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To establish a baseline of fitness for the study subjects, each performed a maximal treadmill test that measured heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption VO2. This test also enabled researchers to develop individual linear regression equations for each subject to predict their VO2 based on HR readings. This was key because standard metabolic testing gear is bulky and wearing it would encumber the subjects’ ability to dance and properly participate in the Zumba class.<br />
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After the treadmill testing, each subject participated in a single Zumba session while equipped with a heart-rate monitor. While the class length varied from 32 to 52 minutes depending on which day it was conducted, the same Zumba-certified instructor taught all of the sessions.<br />
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The Results<br />
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After crunching the resulting data, researchers found that participating in a single Zumba fitness class burned an average of 369 calories or about 9.5 kcal per minute.<br />
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The average HR was 154 beats per minute (bpm), which is roughly 80 percent of the average predicted HRmax for the subjects. Accepted fitness industry guidelines suggest exercising in the range of 64 percent to 94 percent of HRmax to improve cardio endurance, so Zumba meets those requirements.<br />
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“If we look at the heart-rate monitor strips from the Zumba fitness session, they kind of look like interval workouts, going back and forth between high intensity and low intensity,” says lead researcher Mary Luettgen, M.S. “Because of that, with Zumba you burn a lot of extra calories compared to a steady-state exercise like jogging.”<br />
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As for the average estimated percentage of VO2max, the subjects averaged 64 percent of VO2max, which is well within industry recommendations of 40 percent to 85 percent of VO2max for improving cardio endurance.<br />
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Of particular note is that HRmax and VO2max responses for all of the subjects fell within the range of industry guidelines, despite the fact that there was a wide range of fitness levels among the subjects. <br />
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The Bottom Line<br />
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Zumba fitness may feel like a party, but this research suggests that it’s also a highly effective workout.<br />
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“It’s a total-body exercise—a good, high-energy aerobic workout,” explains Dr. Porcari. “Zumba fitness is also good for core strengthening and flexibility gains because there are lots of hip and midsection movements.”<br />
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With subjects burning an average of 369 calories per class, Zumba fitness is also a fine choice for those who are looking to drop a few pounds or maintain their current weight levels. In comparison with other exercises tested in the past by the University’s Department of Exercise and Sport Science, Zumba burns more calories than cardio kickboxing, step aerobics, hooping and power yoga.<br />
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“The surprising thing is that it doesn’t matter what fitness level you’re at—our research shows that in Zumba classes everyone is working out at the zone that’s recommended for improving cardio health,” says Luettgen. “Both fit people and less-fit people are going to get an equally good workout.”<br />
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Bottom line, Zumba fitness is an effective interval-style, full-body workout with built-in variety because every class and every instructor is slightly different. Equally important is the notion that Zumba classes are entertaining, which means exercisers are busy burning calories and getting fit while enjoying the fun of Latin dancing.<br />
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Sounds like our kind of party.Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-58820467099412145022012-08-01T09:14:00.002-07:002012-08-01T09:14:27.870-07:00Fitness is not just for looksEating right, exercising and staying healthy are the things that we know we should be doing. There is proof at every turn about how much it helps us in life. I have said it before and I'll say it again that exercise is the fountain of youth. Aging is inevitable and most people resolve that they should feel a certain way by the time they get to a certain age and accept it. That's just not for me. I have had the healthiest body in my 40's than I did in my 20's and 30's.<br />
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That being said, I found out just how good taking care of yourself can be when I went to a Quick Trip in Lee's Summit the other day to get gas for my car. This situation is on the list of my most embarrassing moments, but I am going to share it because it shed some light on the benefits of a healthy life. <br />
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I had been driving for about 2 1/2 hours straight when I stopped. My legs are usually a little stiff, and I have a knee that doesn't completely bend the full range of motion (that's another story). I proceeded to connect the gas hose with the car and clean my windshield while trying to stretch my stiff muscles. Walking to the back of the car (remember that QT's are full of cars and people) I tried to step over the hose and caught my right foot which then caught my left foot on the hose. There was no slow motion about this. The next thing I knew I was on the ground. I immediately jumped up as people were horrified and asking if I was alright. I told them that I was more embarrassed than hurt.<br />
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I finished gassing up and pulled the car to a parking spot. It was then that I started assessing the situation. My left shoulder muscles hurt, but not to where I thought anything was torn. My hands hurt, but no scrapes. The way that I landed was on my hands just like someone who was doing the worm would land. Hands, stomach, legs, feet. When I went down I just landed like I was going to do a push up. I did a Zumba class that night and felt great after.<br />
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Here is my point. I am in the best shape of my life since high school. I truly believe that if I weren't where I am today that I would have surely hit my face or busted my head. My reaction was fast without thinking and my body was strong enough to take the impact. Plus, the recovery time for when I do get injuries here and there is much faster!<br />
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Remember that fitness and eating well are not just for looks. As we age we need to take care of ourselves so that we can have the best life possible. That means all of the little things that can be taken for granted, such as, playing with our grandchildren, walking, standing, sitting, going on fun trips etc...<br />
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Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today! <br />
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Stronger, Healthier, Happier and Loving LifeAmy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-90446313096715962072012-07-16T07:13:00.000-07:002012-07-16T07:13:56.587-07:00Why do I stick with Zumba?How is it that Zumba has not run it's course with me yet? The cycle of skipping around from one fad to the next has seemed to vanish since Zumba came along. The music, the dancing, the fellowship and bonding with friends and family. What makes you move and stick with an "exercise"?<br />
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Zumba has made both athletes and couch potatoes sit up and take notice. It's sexy, mind/body working, anyone can do it fun! It really is a party that will work all parts of the body.<br />
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The music is what connects us to the whole experience and keeps up coming back for more. It's runner's high many songs in a row. Zumba makes you care about yourself and those around you. You can feel like a dancer when you may not be so coordinated. Your inner sexy goddess comes out, and because it helps so much physically many aspects of life improve! Communication becomes easier, you walk around with your head held higher and self-esteem rises.<br />
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The hardest step is the first. Just like a baby taking their first hesitant step each one gets easier as they keep putting one foot in front of the other. Confidence grows and the body gets stronger while the mind becomes clearer.<br />
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Everyone should have a chance to feel this happy and healthy!<br />
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"Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try"Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-64523483511611688972012-06-01T13:03:00.004-07:002012-06-01T13:03:52.079-07:00Catching up with May & IronmenWow, I missed writing in my blog the entire month of May! It's been a very crazy month for me and my family. For the last several months I have been studying for the ACE Group Fitness Certification. It was a much larger undertaking than I had imagined. I wanted to expand my knowledge of the human body and how exercise plus nutrition shapes our bodies. The knowledge gained would help with the choreography that goes along with Zumba as to what moves will help tone certain muscles. I am proud to say that I passed the exam on May 10th, and even surprised myself because it had been 26 years since my last exam in college! I learned so much and want to keep gaining more and more knowledge. <br />
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Right on the heels of the ACE exam was a trip to Houston to see my brother Jon-Paul Shores (http://jpsbikelife.blogspot.com/) and both of my brother-in-laws Scott Sharp (http://apps.facebook.com/konainspired/?x=us_facebookapp_297_4) and Brian Sharp (a 3 time Ironman) compete in the Ironman on May 19th. The day before was my Birthday so it sweetened the deal! <br />
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I don't know if words can describe the event. An Ironman is 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of biking and a full 26.6 mile Marathon. There were 2800 entries of combined men and women. The training for something like this event is like having a part time job. The starting time was 7am and they had to finish before midnight to avoid being disqualified. I am happy to report that all three finished the race! Our family followed them the whole way, and I felt like I had run a marathon by the time it was over. <br />
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The swim was the craziest sight to start off this most amazing and long day. As you can see from the picture everyone was just about on top of each other. Truly the survival of the fittest.<br />
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The biking portion ran in the 6-8 hour range and we would only get to see them once. The family went to breakfast, and then took the children to the mall to play for awhile. In my head I kept thinking "they are still going". <br />
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The Marathon portion would allow us to see them at various stages. For awhile the family was spread out, then we all settled in one area where the children could play in the fountains. Houston is very hot and humid. <br />
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Finally, the victory of finishing the Ironman. Scott finished 12:48, Brian 12:55.39 and Jon-Paul 14:58.30. To say that I am proud of all three of them would be an understatement. Hard work and dedication pay off if you can have the patience to go the distance. There are so many life lessons in the stories of all who participate in the Ironman. <br />
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<span class="huge">A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.</span></div>
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<span class="huge">Christopher Reeve</span></div>
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<span class="huge">Congratulations to all three of my Heroes!! </span>
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<a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/persevere.html#qxBVzvb258vGDbrq.99" style="color: #003399;"></a><br />
<br />Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-58413633242827559402012-04-30T13:23:00.000-07:002012-04-30T20:12:21.272-07:00Subconscious Mind - Positively WonderfulI love double stuffed Golden Oreo cookies. Milk is a bonus, but I could eat a whole package by myself! This is why they are not allowed in my house. Easy access to the wrong foods can really cause a tummy ache for me. Sometimes when certain things are in sight we seem to trigger an unconscious or subconscious reaction in our brain. Remember the saying, "out of sight, out of mind"? Truly it is easier for me to suppress my craving for Golden Oreos when they are not in my sight. Thus, I don't go down the cookie aisle at the store or if I do I turn my head when I get to that section (yes, it's that bad). Trying to quit smoking? It might help to get rid of the cigarettes. Trying to quit drinking? Keep the alcohol out of the house. Negative thinkers need to stop hanging around negative people.<br />
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Our subconscious mind is always at work even it we don't know it. Just like driving home from work, pulling in the drive and not remembering how you got back home because you were too busy thinking of other things. Your subconscious mind did it for you. Even when I was supposed to stop somewhere else on the way home from work I have sometimes ended up home because I was thinking about other things and my subconscious took over for me. (Thank goodness it knows how to drive!)<br />
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Just as bad things can trigger our subconscious so can good. Walking by the gym might make you think of exercise or by a fruit plate or salad bar may trigger healthy eating habits. I have seen signs above doors in locker rooms leading out onto a field or court that have positive "go get em" sayings. There is a reason that The Biggest Loser TV show has pictures of previous contestants on the walls of the gym. Success will breed success because whether we know it or not we will take on many attributes of our environment including written words or the people we surround ourselves with.<br />
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There is a woman in my Zumba class that keeps her punch cards when they are used up, and displays them on a portion of her wall at home. It is a visual aid of how far she has come, and motivation to keep going. What are you surrounding yourself with? Do the people that you hang around pull you up or down? What triggers can you display around your house to keep you moving toward your goals? Your subconscious will pick up on these things even if you are not aware of it at the time. Put some post it notes on your mirror that say success, happiness, enjoyment just as examples to put you in a better frame of mind in the mornings. Arrange your kitchen to be a positive influence for you and your family. Anything will work if it means something to you such as pictures, positive sayings or words.<br />
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I want to share this quote by Thomas Edison -<br />
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"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."<br />
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Perhaps a few subconscious reminders will get you to your goals and success!<br />
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<br />Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-55244171853011586262012-04-23T12:10:00.002-07:002012-04-23T12:15:10.133-07:00Willpower?<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Have you stuck to your New Year's Resolution? Did you stick to that diet and/or exercise program? Quit smoking? Fit into those skinny jeans? Stop spending your life savings on cigarettes? There are so many diet books and plans out there to help us lose weight. Lots of information on what obesity and smoking does to our body's. Wouldn't that be enough to make us stick to a plan?</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Willpower is a word used all of the time by dieters, and anyone who has tried to stop smoking or quit any other bad habit. Sometimes it seems that we just have no willpower at all! So suppose that I told you that it's not about willpower? According to Dr. Heidi Grant Halvorson, who has done numerous studies on pursuing goals at work, in the classroom, on the playing field and in her own laboratory has concluded that most of us blame our failures on the wrong things.</span>
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Dr. Grant Halvorson says that it is not willpower, but self-control. Self-control defined is the ability to guide your actions in pursuit of a goal - to persevere and stay on course, despite temptations, distractions and the demands of competing goals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Self-control is like a muscle (biceps, triceps) that needs to be worked out. The more you use it, the stronger it gets. I have heard that it takes three weeks to form a habit. This would make sense that using self-control over a period of at least three weeks would make it easier to build up resistance to bad eating habits, decrease or stop smoking or exercise on a regular basis. </span>
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Muscles can become fatigued. Self-control may also get fatigued. Let's say you have a stressful day at work, and have to used up a lot of self-control to get through your day. When it comes to having that bowl of ice cream or smoke that cigarette at night most of your self-control is depleted and you give in. This is why exercise can play such an important role in your life. When you feel tired and sluggish, and you're trying to make the decision as to whether you should go to that Zumba class (or the gym, or for a walk etc...) think about replenishing that self-control muscle. Get revitalized, melt the stress away and stick with it for several weeks at least two to three times a week for classes with 30 minutes of walks, runs or biking on other days. Break it down into three 10 minute walks, but stick to it. You will be surprised at how it gets easier. The best part is how great you will feel, and how you will start looking forward to those classes!</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Below is a brief description of the benefits of Zumba. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments. You may also contact me through www.amyzumba.com. My wish is that everyone can live a healthy, happy and long life. </span></div>
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Benefits of Zumba</h2>
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Possibly
the biggest benefit of Zumba is that it is so much fun people look
forward to going to class and working out. At its core, Zumba is a
cardio workout which burns calories and improves cardiovascular fitness.
However, dependent upon the way the instructor teaches it, Zumba can
improve muscle tone and strengthen the body. Zumba is also a great
stress reliever. The sweating, dancing, and occasionally shouting
involved in Zumba will release stress and tension in your body.</div>
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Quoted from livestrong.com </div>
</section>Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-25833114623190627622012-04-16T18:51:00.001-07:002012-04-16T18:51:59.554-07:00Push Through WeekI just had a push through week. That's what I call a week that I'm challenged to keep to a healthy diet and not eat everything in sight. During this week I crave ALL of my favorite things. My head plays a war game with itself (eat it, don't! eat it, don't). I know what to do, but just can't seem to do it. Therefore, it's time to just push through. I know on this particular week that there will be many mistakes and start overs. The hardest part is the resistance to beat myself up over every slip up.<br />
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Every day is a start over. I try to keep eating the veggies and fruit along with the slip ups just so that I can stay in the habit. I stick with the exercise, and keep drinking the water. Surprisingly, at the end of the week of struggle there is a final push through to the other side! Ahhh...it feels good to return to normal.<br />
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The weight is not permanent, and my body responds to a getting back to a healthier plan. The opposite of push through is what I used to do. "Well, I messed up, might as well give up." Never give up. There is a place during this process where I know that I will turn the corner and come back to reality. In the meantime, I just have to push through!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-41651929365708587842012-04-12T12:44:00.001-07:002012-04-12T12:45:04.782-07:00Aging and ExerciseMy birthday is fast approaching which always give me pause to reflect. Like I said last year, I have felt better in my 40's than my 20's or 30's. What I have learned as I watched my grandparents age (even my great-grandparents) and my husband's grandparents to ripe ages of 88-93 is that they always kept moving. They were always busy with volunteer work, taking care of grandchildren, walking... It's when we stop moving that age catches up with us. I just read an interesting article today in the paper about the aging of athletes, but it can apply to all of us. Here is the link <a href="http://www.startribune.com/printarticle/?id=141120413">For athletes, aging can be a pain</a> One of the best things in the article is that you can start exercising at any age. The benefits are always going to be there. <br />
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How do you want to age? There are choices that a person can make to help them have a long, healthy life. Personally, I want to be able to travel, enjoy my children and grandchildren, walk up and down steps, shop, and do everyday tasks without a lot of pain or stiffness. At the end of the article there is a quote that says "if exercise were a pill, everyone would take it" This is true because it's a quick fix. Feel good in your skin and start moving. (Zumba promo) Zumba encompasses all ages, shapes and sizes. Go in tired, come out feeling renewed. It's that simple!<br />
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Move it, move it!!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-16672165235298259072012-04-11T09:55:00.000-07:002012-04-11T09:55:15.877-07:00Really? Almost a year?Seriously, it's almost been a year since my last blog. Guess I'll just start typing and try not to stop now. Zumba is still going strong and I continue to love it as much, if not more, than when I started two years ago. I know it's because of all of the wonderful friends that I have made through this journey of getting fit and helping others do the same. Right now I am studying for the ACE Group Fitness Exam to further my knowledge of working in the fitness industry, and helping people achieve their fitness goals. My eating habits have improved tremendously, although it seems to be a daily struggle. I definitely feel a difference in my body when I'm eating right. Fall off the wagon on a regular basis, but always get back on. That's what counts! In the past I would give up if I fell off. That's all I have to say right now, but I'm planning on jumping on here more often. Hopefully, I can master this blog and post pics along with other added gadgets.<br />
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Have a happy, healthy day!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-8827365298258323652011-05-18T18:46:00.000-07:002011-05-18T18:46:02.336-07:00Birthday blog - From Me to YouIt's been some time since my last post, and I thought my birthday would be a good time to come back!<br />
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This past year, and really almost two have been life changing for me in many ways. First and foremost is the way I have changed both physically and mentally. I feed myself better, and work out better than I have in the last 25 years! I read the other day that exercise is the closest thing to the fountain of youth that you can find. I really believe that this is true. Since I started Zumba my body has taken a different shape literally. I am about 1 pound away from my high school weight, and I feel better now than I did in my 20's and 30's. My mind feels sharper (most days) and I get so much more done because I have the energy to do it!<br />
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I'm not saying that everything is perfect. I'm just saying that you have give yourself the chance at the best life you can have by taking care of yourself. Start with baby steps, by sticking to something for at least 3 weeks. Start small, then work your way up. Find something that you are passionate about. Try new things until you find that something that you can stick with. Don't give up the first time you try something new. I know that with Zumba the first time is fun, but it is also the hardest (which really isn't that hard). Each time after gets easier and easier. I have also met the nicest people, and made some very dear friends through Zumba. Mentally Zumba is a huge stress relief so you're really killing two birds with one stone!<br />
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Something that I started doing was looking at what people who lost weight, and people who looked the way that I wanted to look were doing. I decided that I would do what they did, and find the parts of what they were doing that would fit me.<br />
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I'm no expert nutritionist or exercise guru, but I can tell you what has worked for me. My wish for others is that I want you to feel as good as I feel, and to be happy with yourself and your life. Those around you will feel what your experiencing and their lives will change, and pretty soon you're adding years to not only your life, but others as well.<br />
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There is no age that is too old or young to start moving and exercising. Please live your best life now! Be there for your children and grandchildren. Who knows, you might just like it.Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-33152896465869697642011-01-31T10:10:00.000-08:002011-01-31T10:10:07.867-08:00YouTubeI have a YouTube site now. Check out the new videos.<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP_KNaT3bWo">You Tube Video for Turn Around (5,4,3,2,1)</a></span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wP8Dtagmk9A">You Tube Video for Dynamite (Warm Up)</a></span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica; font-size: small;">We are having a major Winter Storm here in St. Joseph, Mo so it is reeking havoc on the Zumba schedule! Hopefully, this is the last one. We are celebrating our 1yr Anniversary Sat. Feb. 5th with a 1 1/2 hour Zumba class 9-10:30am, DQ Cake and drawings for prizes! What a wonderful blessing Zumba has been for me. I have met the most wonderful people who now feel like a part of the family.</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica; font-size: small;">I'm hoping to post more often with some interesting topics. I guess it's good that I'm so busy that I hardly have time to write.</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica; font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0pt; word-spacing: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">Peace, Love and Zumba!</span></span></div>Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-82951839729528400722011-01-09T13:36:00.000-08:002011-01-09T13:36:11.974-08:00One Year!This past week marked the 1st Anniversary of Zumba at B&J Skate Center. The experience has been everything that I thought it would be and more! The people that I have met, and friends I have made has truly been a blessing. All along the way my mother (Barbara) has been by my side getting licensed with me, and we have certainly been enjoying the ride!<br />
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Thanks to my Dad (Jerry) and cousin (Mark) who keep things going in the back. Special thanks to Dianna who continues to step in for any need we have at the rink for Zumba class! Thanks also to Sara, Jennifer and all of the rest of the B&J staff for supporting the program!<br />
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Zumba is such a positive experience. I don't know how anyone can do it, and not leave feeling so much better both physically and mentally. Maybe we should make our politicians in congress, and world leaders take time out to do a class or two a week. Hmmmm. <br />
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Come try a class, and see for yourself. You have nothing to lose except weight and inches. Thanks to everyone who has attended one of my classes, and to those who continue to shake it with me!!<br />
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Here's to many more years of<br />
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Peace, Love & Zumba!!!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-50132209809185747962010-12-16T11:28:00.000-08:002010-12-16T11:28:31.701-08:00Why wait?Why wait for the New Year to start an exercise program? Get with it now, and jump start your way to a healthy life. The exercise may last 30 minutes, 45 minutes or an hour, but at least it is something. This is the perfect time to start coming to Zumba classes. The benefits of stress relief alone are reward enough, and your body will start to feel so much better!<br />
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Start your New Year off on the right foot, and stick with it. A comfortable shoe can make a world of difference when it comes to how your body will feel throughout the week. Research online or go to a professional to get fitted for the type of exercise you are doing.<br />
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2011 is a clean slate. What will you fill it up with? Choose a positive attitude, and outlook for the future. Then follow through with the things that will make you, and those around you, happy!<br />
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Here's to 2011 and beyond!!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-64615843540557676092010-11-11T09:36:00.000-08:002010-11-11T09:36:23.786-08:00I have heard it said that if you want to be rich then do what rich people do. Another saying is that if you want to be thin do what thin people do. Well, a few years ago I put that thinking into practice. My Aunt lost weight by going to Weight Watchers, and kept it off. I finally decided after many years of yoyo diets, and trying to get things done myself that I would give Weight Watchers a try. The only way I could get started was to tell myself that I would try it for 4 weeks, and if I didn't see results, then I would be done. I just wanted to see what if felt like to be smaller. I got my head wrapped around the fact that it was only 4 weeks out of my life...just see what happens. Well, after those 4 weeks had gone by I was feeling so good that I wanted to keep going, and I found out that life only got better. I didn't feel deprived at all!!<br />
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A few years later I found Zumba. I was keeping weight off, but not as toned as I wanted to be. I also didn't particularly like running or weight lifting. Zumba was exciting for me, and something that didn't feel like exercise. All of the benefits rolled into one class!!<br />
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Since I started instructing Zumba, I see myself in a lot of the participants in my classes. So many people benefit from the class, yet the biggest improvements are those who stay with it on a consistent bases. I think sometimes in this world of instant gratification that we tend to expect results within a week. Granted, you can feel better in a week, but the real results come with time.<br />
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Set small goals with weight loss, and exercise. Let it snowball to the results you want. It will happen! Give yourself the time it needs to work. Take a few weeks out of your life, and try it. The result will be that you will eventually stick with it because it feels so good when you get there. What have you got to lose? Also, don't let others that don't want to put the time and effort into keeping their body healthy keep you down. (That's probably a whole new subject).<br />
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Take care of your body, and it will take care of you!!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-85298884555460507502010-10-11T19:03:00.000-07:002010-10-11T19:03:51.222-07:00How do you talk to yourself?One day last week just wasn't going the way I had planned, and at every turn I managed to make it worse. I couldn't quite seem to get things back on track. One thing that didn't help was how hard I was on myself! The words spinning in my head were not nice, and I just kept berating all of the things I was trying so hard to turn in a positive direction. I believe that this was one of the reasons the day kept going south.<br />
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Negative thinking and negative talk can only lead to one thing...negative results!! Telling yourself that you can't do something or try something new or lose weight or eat healthy or calling yourself names (idiot, fool) ect... Tell yourself this enough, and it will come true. Living by the words that you speak in your head can make or break you. I know that when I think positive, and put positive words in my head (good job, you can do it) things in my life go a lot better and smoother.<br />
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I like to use positive visualization as well. See yourself doing a task in the positive way that you want that task to go. When I used to play basketball before games I would mentally see myself making the shots that I take, especially free throws. I watched myself steel the ball from the defense, saw myself making good passes to team mates, and dribbling around opponents to make a lay up. You know what? It worked! My games were always better when I did this. <br />
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Apply this to everyday life. See yourself as you want to look and feel. See great things happening for you in your job. See the way you want your family to be. See everything! Visualize how you will get there, and think of how good it will feel, taste, smell, look...What do you have to lose? What's the worst thing that can happen? You could end up very happy and healthy!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-48515968529288241212010-09-26T17:41:00.000-07:002010-09-26T17:41:39.207-07:00Zumba High<span lang="EN"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This last couple of weeks have been long and tough! Every time I think I’m going to write on my blog something else pops up or throws me a curve ball. Just a quick re-cap of events from the past few weeks. My husband went to the emergency room, and was in the hospital for a couple of days with what turned out to be a kidney stone. Our computer crashed, and we are still awaiting the new one. My daughter turned 18, and we had many celebrations, and a college campus visit. My father is still in the hospital with a foot infection, and as of this posting it has been 9 days. We’re hoping he can come home on day 10.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, with that being said there have been many positive things going on besides the 18<sup>th</sup> Birthday celebrations. Zumbatomic for children ages 7-12 years old started, and I’m loving it. The kids are doing a great job, and we’re having so much fun! Our regular Zumba classes are going strong, and have kept me focused and sane.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During one of my Zumba classes this past week, it hit me why I love Zumba so much. Although there were a lot of stressful things happening, the one hour of Zumba each class helped me escape to that “high” you get when you are working out. Just like the runner’s high, Zumba can take you to the same place. It’s just a great, feel good moment when euphoria hits and you feel happy. This relaxes your body, and I’m sure that it helps the blood pressure level.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since I used to run I can say there were many times that I hit that runner’s high, but I think that Zumba keeps me there a lot longer than when I was running. The music, the moves, the people all contribute to the long high. My mind is not anywhere else except in that moment, with my Zumba family and just being in the moment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next time that you feel like you just can’t get out to get to class, and want to curl up and forget the world. Just try to remember how you feel when you’re at class, and how you will feel when you’re done.</span></span>Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-18801120426887013702010-09-08T12:17:00.000-07:002010-09-08T12:17:47.853-07:00A Pound is a PoundLast Friday night I was driving home from work around 11:30pm after a very long day at the skating rink, and I turned onto our street to a sea of white flowing strands of toilet paper strewn about our yard and trees. My husband was already starting the clean up process, and we recruited the one daughter that was home to help. With two teenagers in the house it was bound to happen sometime.<br />
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We grabbed trash bags, and pulled the toilet paper off of trees, picked it up off of the ground and unwound it from the swing set. It took up some time, but we got it done. When we were finished, I looked at the trash bags with all of the toilet paper wadded up, and stuffed into them. The toilet paper that had once looked like so much, and took up so much space in our yard now looked very small and compact! It was the same amount of paper, however, it didn't take up as much space.<br />
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I used to think (as many people do) that muscle weighed more than fat. It's always a nice excuse when you see the scale number go up. However, one day at my WW meeting I found out that this is a myth. A pound of fat weighs just as much as a pound of muscle. A pound is a pound. The difference is how the pound of fat looks compared to the pound of muscle. Just like the toilet paper that was spread out around the yard looked different than it did in the trash bags. It was still the same amount of paper. One more analogy please. A pound of feathers weighs the same as a one pound brick. Thanks.<br />
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There was a period of time, while I was losing weight, that the scale stalled out. My clothes felt and fit better. People were telling me I looked like I was losing weight, but the scale told me they were wrong. I think it was a time where a lot of toning and shifting were going on in my body. Zumba is great because it gives you both cardio and toning exercise. You can lose weight and tone at the same time!<br />
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So don't be discouraged when the scale stalls. Take measurements, and gauge how you feel in your clothes.Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-79546959679303054272010-09-02T20:05:00.000-07:002010-09-02T20:05:51.639-07:00Happy Heart Before I begin, someone told me at class the other day that she thinks she is shaped like a fire hydrant. She just cracks me up. By the way, I don't see it. Hmmm, wonder what I'm shaped like?<br />
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Anyway, onto the heart...<br />
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Here is a fact that many people do not know...Heart disease is the number-one killer of American women. The first time that I heard this I was surprised. I thought that maybe breast cancer or uterine cancer (both horrible) would be the leading cause of death. Women tend to brush off the warning signs as stress, flu, fatigue, common headache, etc. This includes women in their 20's, 30's and up. Why am I talking about something so depressing?? Here comes the good part. You can take care of yourself!!<br />
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I started my Zumba classes the first week of January 2010. I constantly get stories from students about how their cholesterol and blood pressure have gone down. I'm going to tell about a few of the stories I have heard recently. I get similar stories all of the time, just the names and faces change.<br />
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Mona (that's her real name, she said that I could use it) walked into class a few weeks ago, and came over to talk to me before we started. Mona told me that the only thing she has done differently in the last several months is Zumba. She said that as she was going to see her doctor, she had decided that if her cholesterol was not down that she was done. She had already tried everything else, and was working so hard that a negative result would cause her to just stop doing Zumba. When the doctor walked into the room, he looked pleased and asked Mona what she had been doing. She replied that the only thing she was doing different than what she did in the past was Zumba. OK...are you ready? Her cholesterol went down 37 points!! She looked at me, and said, "I just bought another punch card."<br />
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While talking to Mona the other day, Bea told me that her cholesterol was down as well. I get one story after another like this.<br />
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A woman who has been taking my classes for about two months came rushing over to talk to me. She said that her doctor told her she had to do exercise at least three times a week. She picked a stationary bike at home, and my Zumba class. Well, you guessed it, she went to the doctor, and her blood pressure and cholesterol were both down as well as her weight! She just looks wonderful, and feels fantastic. The doctor asked her what she was doing, and she said Zumba. The doctor said that she had another patient that does Zumba, and had lost 70 pounds. Guess it works.<br />
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When you take care of yourself it makes it easier to care for others. Your thoughts become clearer, your breathing is easier, your energy is higher and your heart is happier.Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-29003386738635669142010-08-30T11:20:00.000-07:002010-08-30T11:20:36.653-07:00Miracle WalkingOk, first of all let me just say that I thought the Emmys were really good last night. I like Jimmy Fallon and Modern Family. Now with that out of the way, please read this amazing story.<br />
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Last week I had a woman that came to me, who had been attending my Zumba classes 2-3 times a week for over a month, and ask if she could share something with me. This particular person I say hi to when she comes in, and if I see her leaving we exchange good-byes. She was always a bit quiet and shy.<br />
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This woman whom I will call "Shea" from here on out (not her real name) told me that she had always worn a certain sized shirt for the last 27 years. The size had not ever changed in all of that time. Shea wanted me to know that this week she put on the next size down for the first time in 27 years!! I was so happy to hear this, and was so proud of her accomplishment. This news was enough to give me goose bumps, as do all of the wonderful stories that I have been hearing about since January.<br />
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Wait! That's not the end...<br />
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Shea then told me that she was in a bad car accident 27 years ago, and her right foot was cut off! A doctor re-attached it, and she couldn't walk for three months. I told her I couldn't believe she was walking now! I had goose bumps on my goose bumps!!<br />
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Shea told me that Zumba was the only exercise that has helped her bring that size down. I could have cried because I know that Zumba can do this for people. I can't wait to see how she progresses. I can already see her coming out of her shell. How wonderful to be able to feel that!<br />
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I think the moral of this story is that no matter how bad you think you might have it or what struggles you face in life there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. How badly do you want to reach that light, and what sacrifices are you willing to make? Personally, I think Zumba is the best exercise you can get that will work your mind, body and soul. You can take care of all three in a one hour class. How cool is that?!!Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222712087432053565.post-76425574625234135832010-08-29T13:17:00.000-07:002010-08-29T13:17:56.033-07:00Welcome to my Zumba blog<span style="font-family: inherit;">Those who know me know that I have a passion for Zumba. How did this come about? Let me share my story with you. </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was very active and very involved in many things in High School; choir, Theatre, Basketball, Tennis and various other things in between. The High School years were awesome. When I went to college I began a slippery slope of keeping up with my eating, and forgetting about the exercise that I took for granted in my formative years. Thus, you guessed it; the weight came on and on and on. I just couldn’t believe I was having trouble fitting into my clothes! </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Throughout the years after college my weight would flex up and down, and of course, after babies it was even harder. I managed to walk, and then run and even workout to videos with weights to try to keep it off. Most of the time, I did the workout just to work off the weight and not because I liked the workout itself. The running was really taking its toll, but it was the only way to keep the heart rate high enough to burn the fat. </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">I joined Weight Watchers. Not once, but twice. I am a Life Member now. One day at a meeting there was talk of Zumba. A Latin Dance based fitness. Hmmm, I thought, probably just another aerobics type class. Oh well, my Aunt really likes it so I’ll give it a try. Why not? If I didn’t like it I didn’t have to go back. You may be able to guess what happened, but I’ll explain anyway. HOOKED!!! The first song to the last was a blast, and I was sweating like nobody’s business. How can this be? Running never made me sweat this much. Can something I like so much, be such a great workout? I don’t have to run anymore, or make myself get up at the crack of dawn to do video/weight workouts? I can burn calories, and get toned with something that I love to do??? </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">I went back again and again, and was always disappointed when it was over so fast. I wanted more! Wait a minute. I work at a skating rink that my parents own. Hey mom! Come check out Zumba with me. She did, and loved it as much as I did. Hmmm, We have times at the rink that we don’t skate. I wanted more and more Zumba…could I get licensed and teach? How many people could benefit from this the way we were benefiting? This was life-changing. Skating is a great heart-healthy exercise, and Zumba would fit right in at the rink. </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thus, my Mother and I became licensed Zumba instructors and in January 2010 started Zumba classes at B&J Skate Center. I now have 6 classes per week, and Zumbatomic for kids coming up September 10th! </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">So this is the start of my blog. The most interesting thing is not about how I started Zumba, it is the impact that Zumba has made on the lives of people who come to my classes. I want to share some of those stories here. Changing people’s lives for the better (and healthier) is really what it’s all about. </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" />Amy Sharphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04844718574809037147noreply@blogger.com3