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Knowing Your "Why"

I have spoken many times about knowing your "Why". It is what can make up the single greatest difference between people who succeed with their health and those who struggle. Throughout my years of fitness modeling, my "why" was "to look the best I can" and to have maximum muscle definition. This "why" worked for a while, but then I crashed. My problem was that I lived for how I looked and disregarded how I felt. I restricted my calories and carbohydrates which made me moody, grumpy, and unhappy overall. I lived this way for 5 years and then one day my wife Abbi said she could not live with me the way I was anymore. She said I lived for my body, and it had to change. I realized my "why" was actually working against everything I truly wanted in life, happiness, calmness, and freedom. It was this defining moment that propelled me to finding what my "why" really was . It was then that my "why" changed to "having the highest quality of life". It changed to being the best husband, father, and friend I could be. It changed to being lean, fit and healthy so I could have more energy, play sports, and be active with my family. I'd worked so hard in the past to have a perfect body that I neglected everything else. When I shifted my "why", every aspect of my life improved.

We all have a different "why". I shared this story with you to encourage you to find your own "why", and then ask yourself if your "why" is strong enough to provide you with the quality of life you would like. Is your "why" powerful enough to keep you going after a bad week, an injury, the flu, or even one business trip? Is your "why" going to help keep you determined to make your health a priority?

We can all succeed for moments. If you create a "why" powerful enough, you will succeed for life. Go back to the current newsletter.

Culinary Corner

by head chef Valerie Cogswell

Chocolate... A Health Nut’s Friend?

Smooth and rich. Intense and sweet. The perfect ending to a long day. Yes, I’m talking about chocolate and if your like me, you’re a huge fan! So how do health nuts like you and I indulge and stay fit? Of course moderation is key. But did you know you can improve your health by aiming for dark chocolate?

Dark chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate. More importantly, it contains flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants, and may even have a favorable effect on cholesterol levels. My recommendation is to indulge in 1 oz. of dark chocolate (approximately 130 calories and about 8.5 grams of fat) occasionally immediately following a balanced meal (the protein and other nutrients in the meal will help to keep the blood sugar steady). I also like to go very light on my carbohydrates at dinner if I plan on having dessert to prevent spiking my blood sugar. So this Valentines Day, skip the milk chocolate and satisfy your sweet tooth with a healthy dose of dark chocolate. Enjoy!

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Give a Great Gift this Valentines Day!

Looking for the perfect Valentines gift for your significant other? We decided to buck tradition this year (read: no heart shaped boxes!) and put together a list of fun and fit ideas to celebrate this February 14th. Grab one of these great gifts and show your partner how much you appreciate them and you support their healthy lifestyle.

• A spa gift certificate or couples massage is a great way to reduce stress, reconnect and promote a higher level of fitness. Tip: Just make sure to call ahead of time to schedule an appointment (spas tend to fill up appointments fast this time of year)
• Breakfast in bed is a relaxing way to start the day. Serve your significant other B&B pancakes (see your PDF Recipe Packet inside your program) or even lox (a great source of protein) with whole grain toast, low fat cream cheese, lemon, capers and an array of fresh fruit for a hearty and healthy meal in the morning.
• An Ipod, yoga mat, stop watch or any other fitness gadget that your significant other has been craving make for a unique gift that will keep their workouts inspiring.
• A gift certificate to a sports store or fitness apparel store will allow your partner to pick and choose some new gear to work out in style
• A romantic dinner for two is always appreciated. Scope out the menu online ahead of time for healthy meal options and pre-order his or her favorite dessert to split as a special surprise (yes, a little indulgence on Valentines Day is fine!)
• And if you want to go the traditional route, do it with a modern twist. Skip the box of chocolates and try making a gift basket filled with dark chocolate bars (high in antioxidants and healthier than milk chocolate), gift certificates, a new workout CD, a new book from their favorite author (to promote relaxation), a bottle of his or her favorite red wine and of course a Valentines Day Card.
• A Venice Nutrition Gift Certificate. Give the gift of great health to the ones you love and get fit together. Visit your Venice Nutrition online store today.

Happy Valentines Day from the Venice Nutrition Team

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You Asked | We Answered

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Q:How often should I do interval or fast twitch training?

A:Interval or fast twitch training is extremely intense and effective. How often you should do it depends on your goals and physical activity level. Please consult your online customized nutrition and health plan for your recommendations. In general, interval or fast twitch training should be done 2-3 times per week prior to your scheduled fat burning cardio session.

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