Be Like Water

“Empty your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water. If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle and it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot it becomes the teapot. Now, water can flow or it can crash. Be water my friend.” – Bruce Lee

This is one of Bruce Lee’s most famous quotes. What does it mean? Be flexible, make adjustments, try different approaches, be fluid, be open to change. When it comes to health and fitness, people often pigeon-hole themselves by trying to follow strict diets and workout programs. And what happens when they’re too tired to train that day or didn’t prepare that particular meal? They feel like a failure and sometimes get derailed. Why? The programs weren’t built with flexibility. They’re built to be followed; On Monday you eat A, B, C and do Routine #1 in a specific sequence. I don’t know about you, but my days are not always the same. My energy isn’t always 100%. And to expect that is pure folly.

Bruce Lee hoped to free his students “from clinging to styles, patterns, or molds.” There’s something comforting in following a pre-set program that others have done. However, it’s limiting because it’s not tailored to you. Let me give an example. I have had clients ask me to instruct the proper use of workout machines. After trying different seat positions, grips, and foot placements sometimes it still wouldn’t work. The answer is that the machines, even with all of the adjustments, aren’t designed to fit everyone. My frustrated client learned that she just didn’t fit. And that’s okay. The machine should conform to you and NOT the other way around.

Health and fitness is about being intuitive and instinctive. How does your body work? What feels good? Do you have the flexibility to do an alternative exercise when the lat pulldown machine is being used? Are you happy doing yard work on a sunny day in place of “going to the gym”? As Bruce Lee says “When one has no form, one can be all forms; when one has no style, he can fit in with any style.” I absolutely agree. To learn more of the science and philosophy by one of the greatest martial arts practitioners, read Tao of Jeet Kune Do.

Be Like Water2012-04-08T16:18:47-05:00

Become a Ninja Warrior

I have been a fan of Ninja Warrior for several years. It’s more than a one-day four-stage obstacle course; in my opinion, it’s the ultimate test of strength, agility, athleticism and endurance. Over the years it has attracted world-class athletes, Olympians, and everyday people. I’ve seen painters, firefighters, students, models, comedians and even a fisherman. Some of the competitors are so dedicated that they’ve built obstacle courses in their backyards and garages. One guy even practiced in his closet. Now that’s utilizing a small space.

The video below highlights Makoto Nagano, one my favorite Ninja Warriors. Why? He has competed over 20 times and has completed all four courses only once. Now that’s dedication. Granted he is the 2nd of only 3 victors in 27 competitions. Also he’s 40 years old. . . no spring chicken. However, you can see all the years of experience as he moves through the obstacles. Enjoy!

Become a Ninja Warrior2012-03-24T18:05:22-05:00

Staying Motivated

How do you motivate yourself to go for a walk? To prepare dinners for the week? To get up from your desk and move around? The answer is your health and fitness goals. One of the secrets to successfully achieving your goals is to make them personal and specific. Let me give you an example. A weak goal simply states “I want to lose weight.” It doesn’t say how much weight, by what date, or why. So let’s make that goal statement stronger. “It’s March 15th and I feel great. I’ve lost 10 pounds and two dress/pant sizes. I am excited by who I see in the mirror. My energy is higher, and I have learned skills not only to keep the weight off but to get in even better shape. I love being able to play with my kids and chase my spouse around the house.” How does that sound? There’s feeling and emotion in it. That’s what’s going to get you off of the couch.

In addition to your health and fitness goals, it’s important to identify outside motivators. For example, my job as a Personal Trainer motivates me to stay in shape. I need to walk the walk, not just talk the talk. My title alone won’t give me credibility.

My children also keep me fit. They watch and help me prepare meals. When we go the park, they ask me to play with them or swing from the monkey bars. We even exercise together in my fitness studio. — they like to balance on the BOSU, jump rope, and do stretches. As my dad says “Kids keep you on your toes.” I guess that’s why my dad is in good shape too.

Staying Motivated2012-01-11T22:15:53-06:00

For Badger Fans Everywhere.

The Wisconsin Badgers football team is having an incredible season, thanks in large part to running back and Heisman Trophy finalist, Montee Ball. Check out his moves in this great highlight video!

For Badger Fans Everywhere.2012-01-03T12:33:12-06:00

Watch the Bras for a Cause Video!

The Bras for a Cause event was a huge success! We raised over $10,000! A BIG THANKS to all of the volunteers and models. Here is some footage from Thursday night. See if you recognize some of the models. I was lucky #7!

Watch the Bras for a Cause Video!2012-01-03T12:13:31-06:00

What Are You Thinking?

When it comes to achieving your health and fitness goals, positive self talk is a key ingredient. Why? Because you can talk yourself into or out of anything. For example, if you tell yourself that losing twenty pounds will be a struggle, then it will be. When obstacles get in your way, you might take a detour. Doubt may creep in, and you’ll ask yourself if your goal is really worth it. But if you tell yourself that you CAN do it, then you’ll put in the work to make it happen. You might still run into obstacles and challenges, but instead of running away or quitting, you’ll find a solution.

So how do I know that you CAN achieve your health and fitness goals? Because other people have done it. I’ve seen it with my own eyes. People who are just like you. That’s why reading or listening to other peoples’ stories inspire us. If they can, you can too.

Just remember this quote by Rocky Balboa. “It ain’t about how hard ya hit. It’s about how hard you can get it and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done!”

What Are You Thinking?2012-02-28T15:45:32-06:00

Bras For a Cause Runway Show & Auction

Mark your calendar for this great fundraiser! Bras for a Cause will be held on October 13th from 5PM-8PM at The Edgewater Hotel. Enjoy an entertaining runway show, live auction, music and food organized by the Women’s Council of Realtors in Madison. It benefits an amazing local charity Breast Cancer Recovery of Madison.

Beautifully decorated bras are premiered in a runway show, modeled by local business owners and celebrities (yes, I’m one of the models) for the roaring, energetic crowd. In addition, there will be music, food, entertainment, and a silent auction. 65% of the proceeds are earmarked for local Breast Cancer Recovery Retreats that directly benefit women in Dane County. This is the first year for WCR in Madison, however, other Chapters of WCR around the country raise thousands of dollars for their local Breast Cancer charities.

Click Here for Ticket or Sponsorship information.

Bras For a Cause Runway Show & Auction2012-01-03T12:10:41-06:00

My Nephew Won 1st Place in Jiu-Jitsu Tournament

I am so proud of my eleven year old nephew, Adam! He took first place in his division in the
7th Annual Best of the West Championships. This is one of the most competitive and well-attended jiu-jitsu tournaments on the West Coast. As some of you know, I am a fan of mixed martial arts (MMA). The sport combines striking and grappling techniques, and Jiu-jitsu is the foundation for grappling and submissions. Athletes put in countless hours perfecting their technique, conditioning, and mental discipline. Way to go, Adam!

Click here for info on other grappling tournaments.

My Nephew Won 1st Place in Jiu-Jitsu Tournament2011-08-06T09:56:26-05:00

Pick up the Wisconsin State Journal this Sunday!

Get your paper! Get your paper! Read all about it! Be sure to pick up the Wisconsin State Journal this Sunday (6/19). Writer Andrea Zani is featuring a story in the Sunday Best section about my designation as the “Healthiest Man in America.” What a privilege this is! It will also be on the Wisconsin State Journal website. So don’t miss it!

Pick up the Wisconsin State Journal this Sunday!2012-01-03T12:14:49-06:00
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