Fireworks

Two years ago, I would have never written this blog post because I had no direction in my life.  I didn't realize that I created my own happiness and that no one but me could create my future.  I would have made excuses to not go on vacation and I would NEVER have posed in a bikini for the world to see.  I was unhappy, stuck and hoping that life would change, but too scared to take a risk to make a change.

Today I'm different.  I'm fearless, confident and in charge of my future.  I live for the quiet and peaceful moments with my family and I'm not afraid to step way outside of my comfort zone because it is there that change takes place.  I have passion and purpose and no longer worry about what people think of me because I love who I have become.  I simply love being a Beachbody coach!

My Beachbody Success Club trip was simply amazing and hard to put into words what the experience was like.  I do know that none of this would be possible if it weren't for the coaching opportunity Beachbody has given me.  Because I live to help and serve others, I'm fulfilling my own dreams.

During our week in Paradise Island, our days were spent on the beautiful, white sandy beach watching Jackson enjoy the waves hit his feet while he passed the time digging his little toes in the sand. Cedric and I relaxed in the sun.  It was so peaceful.  I wanted to stop the clock and not let the moments pass.  It was so genuinely special.

So happy in the sand!

Believe you can achieve whatever you want in life!

We had early morning wake up calls, but for good reason.  When do I get the opportunity to workout on the beach with the top trainers followed up by a Shakeology breakfast?  It was the perfectly written morning script for my life.

Morning yoga with Tony Horton

My awesome brother and I waiting to get a beat down by Shaun T's Insanity workout!

Bottomless supply of Shakeology!

Each evening we enjoyed fabulous dinners on the beach spent with great company while acting silly and sharing stories with the leaders of Beachbody!

Having a great chat with Beachbody CEO Carl Daikeler

 

An evening dinner by the dolphins...

...followed by a little plank challenge in the sand with my brother.

 

Each day I did things that I never dreamed I would do.  I stepped way outside my comfort zone by riding down a a gigantic water slide appropriately called the "Leap of Faith" and did a photo shoot in a bikini!  ME!   Fear no longer controls me. It drives me. 

I have made the best of friends in the last couple years.  The types of friends that uplift me, support me, challenge me and believe in me.  I am so grateful for my life and the gifts I've been given.

My Success Partner and I on the beach!

  

Getting to meet Tony Horton was a delight for my boys!

I had so many 'favorite' moments, but perhaps the most electric moment was the unexpected fireworks show on our last evening in Paradise.  It was an electric and emotional moment.  A culmination of the last year and a half of all the work I have put into being a coach.  It's work that makes a difference.  It's work that is not just changing my life, but so many other people I am fortunate to cross paths with every single day.

A Magical Moment

What it all comes down to is visualizing and then creating the life that you want and deserve.  I love to help people and I love to lead others to an overall better quality of life by giving them the tools to live a more healthy lifestyle.  I've been incredibly fortunate and wonderfully blessed in my life to have the most handsome and supportive husband along with two sweet boys.  Jackson already has plans for our trip next year to Disney World and has made sure that big brother Keelan will join us next time!

Would you love to share this experience with me next year?  Ask me how.

How Insanity Made Me a Better Runner!

One of the questions I'm most often asked is, "How do you incorporate your Beachbody programs into your running schedule?"

My answer is based on your fitness goals.  Are you training for a marathon or are you more interested in shorter training runs?  Are you running to become fit or are you trying to become a more fit runner? 

When I'm training for a marathon, my focus is running four to five days a week with one or days focused solely on cross-training.  When my goal is geared more toward fitness, I flip this schedule.  I have six days of cross-training fitness with one or two days a week devoted to shorter runs to maintain my base of running.

In simplest terms, a weekly schedule would look like this.

This schedule works for me.  It allows me to focus on my main objective (i.e. a marathon) without completely losing the fitness I've developed from Insanity, The Asylum or any other Beachbody program.

I believe that it is so important to always incorporate some level of cross-training into your weekly schedule for injury prevention, to develop strength and a strong core and to keep your routine fresh.

Since I have really made this a part of my overall fitness, whether the majority of my time is spent running or cross-training, I have become a much more efficient athlete.  In May of 2010, I ran a lot and spent time in a gym, but I wasn't efficiently working the way my body needed to be.

By incorporating Beachbody programs into my routine, I've learned how to work more efficiently and eat more effectively.  The programs allowed me to lose 4 percent body fat and by becoming leaner, I've become a better runner.  Last year, I took 16 minutes off of my previous marathon time and qualified for the Boston Marathon.

If I can do this. Anyone can! Trust me!

Perfection is a Myth

I had this notion of getting super fit before I began this crazy journey with The Asylum.  I wanted to 'Get Shredded."  I set a crazy goal weight in mind and knew that if I followed the thirty days, I would achieve it.

So I started to document the process through photos and videos.  Just me.  Looking very raw.  It's been an enlightening discovery.  A year ago I wouldn't haved dared put myself on camera and exposed my body, my face, my flaws to the world.  But today, I don't care. 

For the first time...ever I can look at myself and NOT cringe.  I had a moment this past week that made me realize that any imperfection is a part of who I am.  The creases on my forehead - the worry, the anxiety, the stress I often succumb to.  The extra little pooch on my stomach - the womb I carried my beloved child.  The loose skin below my butt - the child girl that will always be a part of me.

It's not about the number on the scale, but it's about the journey and the process of being more than I think I can be and doing more than I think my body can handle.  It's not about how many pull ups I can do...or not do, it's about challenging myself to be better.  I'm not just physically changing my body, I'm discovering the core of who I am, what I want for myself, what matters to me and most importantly what really doesn't matter at all.

I've exposed my weaknesses.  I can't do everything.  I'm not particularly coordinated. I'm human.  But every day, I do my best.  I put forth effort.  I work hard and never succumb to excuses.  I'm not perfect and it's okay.

My Why

Have you ever asked yourself , what is my passion? What drives me? What motivates me? What is something that I am so passionate about that I could work endless hours and still have desire to keep going? What is my Why?

My passion is my Beachbody business and my drive comes from being healthy and fit. I know how good that feels and I have an unrelenting desire to help others achieve a quality level of health for themselves. I strongly believe the foundation of everything, including my very own happiness begins with health. My why? My family. They are what bring it all together for me.

People know that I work very hard physically. I run marathons, I do crazy Bikram yoga challenges, I bust my booty with my Insanity workouts.  I make very conscious decisions about what I eat.  But my real dedication is to build a solid home business with Beachbody. With a full-time job, family and my own workouts, the time I can dedicate to working on my goals is the evenings. Every evening. No television. Minimal distractions. I utilize every minute I have to pursuing my goals.

I believe we must live in the moment and take advantage of every minute we have with our kids.  I also believe that if you really want something bad enough, you will make small sacrifices along the way.

I sacrificed a lot this year and thanks to one of the most supportive husbands a girl could ask for, I have been working at turning my passion into my full-time 'career'. I've missed some things this past year. I no longer take my son to school, which was the highlight of my day. It hurts me to give that up. The guilt overcomes me often. 

Small sacrifices open even larger doors.  I know that by next year, I will not only take him, but I'll be there at the end of the day to pick him up. This is something I have never been able to do.  He is my why and I won't let him down. Could you?

Ask yourself if you are truly happy with where you are in your life? Are you happy physically, financially, emotionally? Are you earning a living doing what you love or are you paying the bills and living day to day? When is the last time you achieved a goal? When is the last time you wrote down a goal?

I know I'm going to achieve my goals and be successful. Why? Because my priority is to help people first and my mission is to create healthier lives for those around me and for those that come into my life.

Whether you want help in getting healthier, want to join my cause or simply want some inspiration, I would love to hear from you!  It doesn't just start with me or you, it starts with us!  Email me!  WHY are you waiting?

Isn't it Time?

I had an assignment this week to post a video about my success with Beachbody.  Not only have I had great results, but I have truly been able to inspire so many people and that to me is how I define success.  I hope this motivates you!  Isn't it TIME for YOU?

Make a Difference

I'm coming off of a really huge high after this weekend.  I had the privilege to attend a leadership conference by Beachbody.  It was one of the preparation leads to opportunity moments for me.

Imagine being surrounded not only by really successful people, but extremely humble people.  No one was better than anyone else, each person had their own story of how and why Beachbody transformed his or her life.  If I've ever experienced a surreal moment, this weekend was it!

It began on Thursday with my Fit Club and I had the chance to work out with friends of Shaun T.  Yes, THE Shaun T of Insanity fame and who I like to believe is my very own personal trainer!  I don't think I ever pushed myself THAT hard.

Friday night was dinner and more inspiration.  We learned about the latest nutritional developments from Beachbody and lots of other exciting news.  The best thing about attending a conference that is about health and fitness is that all the food is FANTASTIC!  I also had the opportunity to take another picture with Tony Horton...sans the sweat!  Again, so nice and so humble...and so funny!

Saturday started out with a mini-P90X workout with Tony on the lawn of the Hilton Anatole.  The energy was absolutely electric and contagious!  A healthy breakfast of Shakeology and an egg white omelet set the tone for the rest of the day.

I listened, I watched, I studied, I took notes.  I know my purpose is to be a leader in getting people healthy and ending the horrible epidemic of obesity.  My heart was there.  I was fully vested in every word that was spoken.

We had an awesome and energetic workout with Donna Richardson Sunday morning.  I remember her from my Buns of Steel days and she is still as beautiful as ever.  We sweat, we laughed, we danced down a Soul Train line at 7:00 a.m.  I've never been happier. 

What a beautiful spirit she is!  She took the time to talk to me afterward and shared her passion with me as I shared my story. It was such a special moment for me to connect with someone like her.

I left the conference on Sunday bringing home two favorite quotes and they both speak of what Beachbody is about and represents.

"A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle."

"Make a significant difference in others in order to make your own life significant."

I can't think of anything else that better represents who I am and my true self.  Helping others gives me energy and make my life so fulfilling!  I can't wait to see what the future has in store for me!

Bring it!

A couple weeks ago I debated a decision.  Should I go with my gut or with my heart?  Almost all of you suggested the latter and I'm so glad I followed your advice.

Instead of running my favorite 20K race, I opted to attend a day long seminar with Mr. P90X, Tony Horton.  Who's Tony Horton you ask?  Turn on any channel that shows infomercials and you'll find out quickly.  He's the face behind the workout phenomenon, P90X.  

P90X and Insanity are just two of several home DVD workout programs, made by Beachbody that are literally transforming so many people's lives across our country.  It was extremely inspiring to be in a room full of motivation mamas and dads, who share my same passions.


The day started with an exhilarating workout with Tony.  I snatched a front row spot.  How often will I get that opportunity?  That's me in the green top!

After the workout, and a fresh change of clothes, we had the opportunity to learn about the success of Beachbody.  I was sitting next to a lady who was smokin' hot.  She turned to me and said 'hello' and introduced herself.

A bit later, during the Success Stories segment, a picture of a unhappy, overweight mother, with familiar looking eyes appeared on the big screen.  I turned to look to the hot woman next to me and sure enough, that picture was her just over a year ago.  A mother who had given up on herself had a friend that motivated her to get her life back. Now, she not only looks incredible, but her spirit was contagious.

I sat there listening to success after success and felt such a tremendous amount of gratitude not only for my health but for my willingness and desire to help other people. Most of the people behind the success stories had lost significant amounts of weight or several inches off their bodies, but they all had gained tremendous amounts of joy in their lives. 

I was meant to be in that room and it further solidified
my unrelenting passion to lead people to a healthier lifestyle.

Some key things that Tony Horton said made a significant impact on me.  I jotted down a few of his phrases that resonated deeply with me.

"Doing nothing does nothing" - If you want to make a change in your life, you have to do something about it.  It starts with making a decision to be healthier.

"Abs are made in the kitchen" - Getting that perfect six pack doesn't come from exercise alone.  We have got to start eating better and being more accountable for what we put into our bodies.

"Rock What You Got" - He referred to a new book by Katherine Schwarzenegger.  You can only work with the body you have so make it the best for you and don't worry what you'll never have.

"Stop caring about what people think of you!" - This is the hardest one for me, but I am getting better.  After all, why should I worry about the opinions of the naysayers when my intentions are only meant to them?

We finished the day with an hour of the hardest yoga I've ever done and my body is unforgiving today. My decision was worth every ounce of pain I'm feeling.  I know what Insanity and Beachbody have done for me and I can't wait to start leading others to begin a journey to a new, happier and healthier life.

Inspiring and motivating others makes me happy. If I can lead you to a healthier life, let's not make any more excuses or waste any more time. Let me know how I can help you get started.

 That's me...with Tony Horton!  Bring It!

Who Knew?

I'm faced with a decision tonight that is difficult.   My life has changed so much in the past four months since I began my Insanity journey.  Who knew a different type of workout would so dramatically change my life?

I have always known that my main purpose in life is be a motivator to others.  Whatever platform I'm given or presented with in life, I know it will be the avenue that leads me to be a positive role model to inspire others to start their own journey to a healthier lifestyle.

Running is and always has been my love.  The weather is finally starting to cool down a bit and Saturday morning's training run was nothing shy of a spiritual renewal for me.  It's the most gratifying and pleasurable time I have with nature.  It gives me peace, brings some clarity to my thoughts and solidifies my passion for being healthy.

Four months ago, I was introduced to Insanity for some reason.  I was skeptical and resistant, but curious.  I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave it a try.  That comfort zone allowed myself to drink 600 calories worth of 'crap' in my coffee every morning and gave me permission to be average.

Now, I'm on my second round of Insanity, I have control of my diet, I've lost 10 pounds, I've dropped a size in my pants, I've taken two inches off my waist and I've become a faster runner.  Who knew what a home workout DVD would do to change my life?

On a whim, I pitched my idea to our local Fox station to do a consumer report about Insanity.  Who knew they would take me up on the idea? Now that television segment about Insanity is posted everywhere online, including the blog of Beachbody CEO, Carl Daikeler.  Who knew?

Tonight I'm faced with a decision.  I just found out Tony Horton of P90X / Beachbody fame will be in Dallas for a day long seminar on September 18th.  That is the same day a 20K race that I love to run in Dallas.  Sometimes the hardest decisions are what lead us to our true purpose in life.  I want to run that race, but my heart is telling me to attend the seminar.

What do you do when faced with a difficult decision? Do you go with your heart?  Do you take a leap of faith?  Do you play it safe?  I think I know what I need to do.  I don't even think I need to sleep on this one.

My Bro

I'm a very emotional person.  I take after my mother 100 percent.  She was the type that used to cry at parent-teacher conferences because she was so proud.  As a kid, I could never understand why someone would cry because they were happy.  It just didn't make sense to me.  Then, one day I became an adult.  It was if I was a contestant on a game show and the grand prize was revealed.  Congratulations Rhonda!  You have just won the winning ticket to TEARS OF JOY!

I can and will cry in an instant. ANYTHING easily causes my eyes to well up with tears.  I don't think it's a bad thing.  I like to think I'm very vested in emotions of the human spirit.  My boys know this very well about me.  So much so that as soon as any slow music comes on, I can see them through my peripheral vision checking me to see if the tears have started. 

Now please understand, I would consider myself to be a very strong woman.  I don't cry from weakness unless my spirit is broken.  Or if  Shaun T is making me to power jumps. Yes, it happens, but I tend to to cry most often because I'm very easily touched by simple gestures and meaningful acts of inspiration.

OK...this is where my lip starts to quiver.  My brother and I have always been VERY close.  He has always been  the biggest support to me.  When the mean kids teased the fat girl (me) in grade school, he stuck up for me.  When I needed a ride to high school, he drove me.  When I needed a big brother close by during college, he was that guy.  When I moved to Texas completely on my own, he supported my dreams.  When I got married, he stood by Cedric.  When I needed a visitor, he came to see me.  When I needed a quick back up support for the Marine Corp Marathon last year, he flew to DC in a instant and we had a spontaneous blast of fun. (including falling off a Segway in front of the White House!) Most importantly, when I need a really good laugh, he is always there to provide one.

(No one says you gotta look good after 26.2)

(Being goofy in front of the Capitol)

A Process

Today started week 2 of Insanity and I've learned that by putting myself on video is really beneficial in order to progress.  I can and always have been extremely critical of myself and body type, but watching me go through this grueling process has given me a huge appreciation for my body.  It's a very awkward experience to watch yourself after the fact.  It's also very helpful.  You'll notice that I am struggling quite a bit during some of the exercises and my form is completely gone in other parts.  A part of me wants to criticize my flaws, but what good would that do for me?  What good does it do for you?

I'm trusting this process and believe just that.  For me, I know what I have to work on.  For those of you reading, I want you to know that you can push yourself further than you think.  Do I have to take breaks?  Of course?  Do I feel like I'm about to die in parts?  Absolutely! BUT...giving up is not an option.   Whether you're running your first 5K today or doing Jillian Michael's 30-Day Shred, getting to the finish line should be a process.  A progression of the goals you have set for yourself.  I'm happy where I am today and excited about where this process will take me.

The video speaks for itself.  It's clips of the final interval of the cardio power & resistance dvd.  I say something different in the video but I wasn't completely coherent.  Enjoy and stay motivated!

Labor Pains

I would equate my first week of Insanity to being in labor.  Really.  It's a great analogy, especially for all you men who will never experience giving birth. I would recommend giving Insanity a shot; the similarities are striking.

1. Labor starts with little tinges of pain - not enough to make you cringe, but enough to make you feel what is coming. (Warm up)
2. As labor progresses, the pains get more intense. (first intervals)
3. A break - during early labor, you might get a good 5-10 minutes of rest.  You feel like a normal woman again, as opposed to the irrational and crazy woman you'll become again in a few minutes.  This is awesome, but also know what is coming, so you begin to brace yourself. (Recovery)
4. Then, HOLY CRAP....the contractions kick in again, this time much more intense and they last a little longer each time.  At some point, you're not sure you're going to make it through, but you fight, because you know what it will give you. (2-3 intervals)
5. Ahhhh...a little bit more rest, but by this point, you're so tired from working through the first contractions, that before you know it. ...ARRRRRRGGGHHH...it starts one last time. (final interval)
6. The baby is close and you push while your husband shouts with all his might to get your through this and you're so thankful for his support (Shaun T).  When you think you cannot possibly endure another minute of this hell, you give it one final push, leaving nothing and giving everything.  (Last minute)
7. You hear the cries of a baby and all the pain ends abruptly.  All that work resulted in a beautiful human being and it was worth every single moment of pain. (The finish).

I just hope Beachbody doesn't come out with an Epideral DVD.  We all have to endure a little pain to get to where we want to be.