body + being

need to show up and have fun! This is a sure cure for the “I don’t feel like working out” dilemma.

shakin’ those hips a.k.a ZUMBA

Interested in partying yourself into shape? Yes you can! Working out doesn’t have to feel like hard work anymore! It can be fun…in fact it IS fun! Welcome to Zumba.

Zumba is a dance-fitness program that combines Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you away. This new Craze has been hitting the FM area full-force and it has changed many people’s lives!

Zumba Fanatics achieve long-term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exciting hour of calorie-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and captivate for life! The routines feature interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms and resistance training are combined to tone and sculpt your body while burning fat. You can burn as much as 600+ calories per class partying yourself into shape!

As Zumba has become more and more popular in the area, there are more and more places offering this exciting new way to workout. So are all Zumba classes created equally? No.

First, keep in mind that not every instructor is the same; therefore not every class will be the same. Each instructor has their own style, so be open to trying different instructors and places. If you went to a Zumba class and didn’t like it, chances are your instructor’s style didn’t match yours. Give another class a try and you will most likely find a Zumba instructor that will take your breath away… literally!

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing your Zumba class:

• experience A more experienced Zumba instructors means more variety in class. Classes will run smoother and consequently will be more fun.

• background Some of the best Dance-Fitness instructors have some type of dance background. It is important for Zumba instructors to have some dance background [even if informal] because it helps with routine creation and execution.

• style Some instructors’ styles are more fitness others more dance, some more hip-hop others more Latin. Finding the instructor that inspires you will allow you to become more engaged in class, consequently burning more calories. body resistance a.k.a. TRX suspension training

Zumba classes usually are in a non-intimidating environment where people of all ages, shape, gender and fitness level are welcome to participate. The goal is to have FUN while working out! Because Zumba is so much fun it is perfect for anyone trying to get in shape, but has a hard time sticking to a fitness routine. It can also be a great change of pace for fitness addicts that are looking for new cardio training. So get out of your comfort zone & give Zumba a try!!!

TRX Suspension Training is an innovative method of training the body that is as unique as it is versatile. The basic concept involves using your body weight as the resistance with straps attached to a fixed bar. More muscles are recruited as you stabilize and balance yourself while doing traditional exercises like a push-up, squat, or a lunge. Because of the support from the straps, a safe, but larger range of motion is also possible.

The TRX Suspension Trainer is extremely adaptable to all fitness levels. The user can control the resistance [intensity] by simply shifting the position of your body or foot placement or by adding or deleting jumps. There are multiple ways to make the exercises work for you. By working with a trainer, there will always be feedback and instruction to insure proper technique and safety. Whether you are just starting to work out or you want to change up your current routine, TRX Suspension Training builds core strength, elevates your heart rate, burns lots of calories and works balance, stabilization and power. Maximize your training time and reach your next level of fitness!

wee one workout a.k.a. baby & me

For all of you new moms and dads out there: Do you sometimes feel stuck at home and can’t exercise with a newborn? Or maybe you just don’t want to leave your newborn’s side or bring him to some gym daycare? Why not try something new that’s beneficial not only for your body, but for your baby too!!!

A Baby & Me class is a full-body strengthening program that allows you to incorporate your baby into each exercise. The exercises are creative and make working out feel more like playtime without the phone ringing or laundry folding to interrupt you. The setting is non-intimidating, casual and the music is soothing.

If your baby doesn’t feel like participating just bring a blanket, bottle or whatever else makes your baby feel comfortable to be by your side while you still get to workout! New moms, check with your doctor before starting any postpartum exercise program.

stress relief a.k.a. yoga

Are you stressed out? Tense? Are you on information overload? Do you feel your balance has up and left you? Do you wish you had a few minutes to re-energize?

Do you wish you were stronger and more flexible? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you gotta give yoga a try.

There are so many styles and types of yoga. Do you think that you have to be flexible, like a pretzel, to do yoga? Not true. Do you think that yoga would not give you enough of a workout when you only have so much time to spare? Not true again. There is a class for everyone and every move, pose or position can be modified to meet each individual’s needs.

Sometimes it’s easy to feel guilty about taking time away from work and your family to exercise. You have to be a HEALTHY mom in order to provide HEALTHY mothering to your children. One of the benefits of yoga is its amazing ability to calm your thoughts and relax your entire body. Just 5 minutes of slow breathing and quieting the mind can totally rejuvenate you for the day. Give yoga a try or if you’ve tried it before, give it another try! Find a class/instructor that will meet your goals and allow yourself an experience you will never regret. How often have you told your kids, “you’ll never know if you like it until you try it!” So, take your own advice. With fitness, your options are endless. Commit to trying something new in the next thirty days and do it at least 1-2 times a week. It might be uncomfortable to get out of that comfort zone, but your body will love you for it!

Stacey Allard and Kate Frappier have co-owned Health Pros for 10 years and have recently moved into the Catalyst Medical Center Building. Health Pros’ top notch personal trainers include Bonnie Siverson, Rachel Shambaugh and Judy Felch. Dance-Fit, owned by Dani Ferrio and Kim Brandt, is located within Health Pros and offers Zumba classes with the areas two most experienced instructors. More information visit www. healthprosfargo.com and www.dancefitnd.com