mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

Flip Flops That Make Your Feet Fit

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Disclaimer: I received these products for purposes of this review. All comments expressed here are my own. 

It’s no secret I’d prefer to be barefoot to wearing shoes any day of the week. However, since it’s kinda gross to walk around like that most the time, I’m always on the lookout for shoes that are good to my feet and hopefully are fashionable to wear as well. 

So when one of my favorite pairs of summer sandals bit the big one the other day, I was almost in a panic. Then like a little FedEx fairy, a box arrived at my doorstep with new flip flops that claimed with every little step my butt, hips and thighs are doing reversed incline stretches while toning my muscles. So basically, I walk and and the worst parts of my body get a little more toned? So like any woman would, I tore the box open and put these babies on my feet immediately.
 


Developed by famed fitness icon Tony Little (you know the guy with the blonde ponytail exercising on the Gazelle trainer), his new footwear line appropriately named “Cheeks” is constructed with an inclined sole that imitates uphill walking. The shoes work by placing the body at a three-degree angle; most of the weight rests on the heels, thus promoting improved posture. 

I was able to wear these sandals every day, all day for going to work out, walking around Schlitterbahn, the grocery store – well everything. And because of the design, I could easily wear them with many outfits.  While I didn’t take my measuments before I began weating the shoes, I can tell you I could feel a little strain on my legs after I wore them for hours – just like I had been running up a hill. Success. 
 
 
And they have all kinds of styles too – from black, pink with some bling and even some interchangeable straps so you can coordinate your look by flipping it over! 
 
Starting at $24.95 this line is definitely worth a walk around the block. 
Available for purchase on HSN.com and TonyLittle.com. 
 
Anytime Dr. Oz makes a recommendation, we all come running and buying. And these sandals from Wellrox were high on his list for improving balance, better posture or just a more comfortable stride. So of course, I was quick to give these “bear claws” a try. 

By separating and providing individual thongs for each toe, Wellrox has developed “GRABS” technology, a revolutionary sandal that reduces the risk of slippage and enables a more surefooted gait. The GRABS™ technology offers added grip, relief, alignment, balance and support, so when spreading your toes, you’re redistributing your weight more evenly and begin using your proper foot muscles to walk as intended. This concept is well known throughout Yoga and wellness circles (yogitoes.)


These sandals bring much needed relief to your aching feet and leg muscles. You can wear them every day, or whenever you need recovery – before or after a workout or a Yoga session, or after a day of wearing constrictive shoes. You can even wear them for a pedicure. (At least they are much better than those throw-away shoes they give you at the pedi place!) 

You can buy these summer sandals at Macys.com and local Macy retailers. For more information, visit wellrox.com.

So now you have options to work out your feet and then give them a massage by just putting your shoes on!

Happy Walking!


Get Your Body into Warrior Shape with Camp Gladiator – FOR FREE

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Try-it Tuesdays:

It’s been way too long since I got out there and did a Try-it Fitness Tuesday. I could make all kinds of excuses like I’ve been sick, I’ve been busy, etc. but to get to the point: I’ve been a lazy mama and it’s time to get things going again – especially before it’s fall and those sweat pants and sweaters make it so much easy to cover up all that blubber.

Mama needed to get her rear in gear and that meant I needed something to go full-speed ahead and wouldn’t leave any prisoners (or tolerate any fat-girl whining.)

 Mama needed to a mamachallenge. And I think I’ve found it: Camp Gladiator!

Just the name says you-are-gonna-be-a-warrior-at-losing-weight-and-getting-healthy!

 Camp Gladiator is more than a fitness boot camp, it’s an experience they say. One of the fastest growing and most dynamic fitness program in the nation, Camp Gladiator is a four week, adult fitness boot camp that promises a motivating and challenging environment, where men and women of all ages and fitness levels can push themselves and hopefully be pushed too!

 Campers as we are called should expect a total body workout. A typical session could include interval training, sprint and agility drills, stations, plyometrics, body weight strength drills, cardio mix, and much more!

 In the words of RuPaul, “You Better Work!” 

 Designed to increase your functional strength, speed, stamina and, most importantly, to deliver results, Camp Gladiator works to not just be about exercise, but positive energy and connect people to who they want to be.

And since I want to be a healthier and leaner mama, I’ve enrolled for the upcoming August camp. Yep, for four weeks I’ll be going at it like a mad woman and you are going to be here to help me make it to the finish line! And you can actually get in on the fun too with a special FREE offer! (Keep reading for more details.)

So to prepare me for the challenge, here are 10 Rules to Get Me (and You) 
Ready for Camp Gladiator: 
  1. Rain-outs? Never! Every location has a covered area where camp can be held if needed due to weather. Camp Gladiator is rain or shine!
  2. Go at your own pace. Camp Gladiator is for all fitness levels. Do the best you can at camp! No one is ever holding anyone up and no one is being held up by others. Do what you can and always try your hardest. Kick your own butt!
  3. Modifications are available if needed. Ask a trainer or just keep moving on your own. The goal is to keep your heart rate up for the entire hour, so ask your trainer for an alternate exercise as needed.
  4. Stay positive! This is not an easy workout. Don’t get discouraged if you are not able to do something well. Keep working at it and keep coming to camp. Your body will adjust and you will see great improvements.
  5. Warm-up properly. Don’t go 100% unless you are fully warm. Stretch on your own before and after camp.
  6. You may attend ANY and ALL locations as much as you want!
  7. Each day is different and you might like some workouts more than others. We encourage you to continue coming to camp to experience the entire program.
  8. You always need to: be on time, sign-in, wear a nametag, and bring dumbbells, water and a mat.
  9. Always drink plenty of water! Partner good nutrition with exercise for the best results.
  10. Have FUN! Get to know other campers, be loud, encouraging and energetic! 
And now that I’m sufficiently scared and excited, I couldn’t be happier to get things moving in the right direction. 
So are you ready to get your body in gear with Camp Gladiator? They’ve got a special offer just for you! 


Try Camp Gladiator for FREE throughout the month of July! 


Camp is held at the following locations in Arlington:  
Woodland West Church of Christ – Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 5:15am
Woodland West Park (Dottie Lynn) – Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30pm

 All you have to do is contact Amber Dean at amberdean@campgladiator.com to get signed up for camp for the next 2 weeks!


 And make sure to follow my progress on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for my results!

Get Pretty Muddy at New Women Only Run, June 1 + Discount {Spon}

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Me Mondays:

This is a sponsored post. I’ve received a gift card as an incentive for writing this post. However, the opinions stated here are all my own. 

I. HATE. TO. RUN.

 However, when I get finally get passed that first 10 minutes (or longer) of running and self-doubt, I hit my runner’s high and remember why it’s so effective to create a more healthy me. I’ve tried so many things, but when I lost 35 lbs. before I was married it was totally due to a good diet and a lot of running. And nothing has been as successful since. I just have to get passed that first part to get going…



Funny enough, Dallas has been full of fun ways to get motivated this spring. From zombies to zebras, there’s been a run for everything, but there’s one more you need to add to your list: The Pretty Muddy. (Bet you can figure out what happens at this one, right?) The Pretty Muddy on June 1 in Dallas is a 5k adventurous obstacle course mud run for any woman who wants to get outside, spend time with friends and have fun. Still  a little uncertain about how a mud run? Check out this video.




 Best of all, post race women will be treated to a fashion show by Old Navy showcasing the latest in the active wear fashion trends. (Which is going to really make you want them since you’ll be covered in mud.)

Since I’m already a huge fan of Old Navy Active Collection, I can’t wait to see the show. From personal experience, I know if you don’t like what you are wearing to work out, you won’t put it on and if you don’t put it on…well, then you don’t do much exercising. But that’s not the only reason to keep your mouse on “click” – this wear makes you look skinnier while you’re trying to get skinnier!  


 The Old Navy Active Collection offers an assortment of styles and colors at affordable prices including the Compression line that features everything from solid color leggings to color block capris, sports bras, tanks, shorts and jackets, and offers performance fit for added support and a slimmer silhouette.  Made with cotton, spandex and GoDry Fabric it helps to keep you dry and comfortable. Best of all Old Navy Active pants offer fuss-free storage of keys, iPods and all that other necessary stuff you need on you!



Pretty Muddy 5K Obstacle Course Mud Run
June 1, 2013
Skyline Ranch
1801 E Wheatland Rd Dallas, TX 75241
$ 69.50 – Get $10 off with CODE: BLOGON for $59.50 registration
Website

Get More Muddy: 
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#GetActivewithON 

    Why the Y? 5 Reasons to Love the YMCA

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    Try-it Tuesdays:

     This week I’m not bringing you the newest fitness technique or the coolest trend in workouts, but I’m inviting you to take a look at one of my favorite places for the whole family to get fit – my local YMCA. 

     More than four years ago, I joined the “Y” so my son (9 months at the time) could take swimming lessons. But once as a member, I was reeled in by so many things that it offered above just a gym with workout equipment and fitness classes. And recently the YMCA even announced even more to its already long list of value-added benefits with the induction of its new President/CEO Roberto Aguirre. So as the YMCA celebrates its annual capital campaign to raise money to provide financial scholarships to members of the community, I thought I’d share my 5 reasons why I love my Y (and you will, too!)



    1. Friday spin class: 
    Ever looked forward to working out? I know that my Friday 9 AM Spin Class is the highlight of my Friday. Other members of this class know exactly what I mean as this class is like a therapeutic session to get out all the stress of the week and just let it go. For one hour we work to make it to the “top of the hill” with laughing, spinning, rocking out and sweating it out with the leadership of “Coach Melissa.” Best of all, when you’re done, you’ve worked off a lot more than just calories and earned a good atttitude in the meantime (and a bit of body odor, but that goes away with time!)…

    2.  Free Kids Zone: 
    Many gyms offer “daycare” for your kids while parents workout. But the YMCA goes above and beyond. REALLY. The staff is knowledgeable about your kids and ensuring they are happy, healthy and to make you feel good about making time for you to be fit. My first had health issues, so I was very interested in how attentive the caregivers would be. And now after four years, I can say that sometimes they would tell me things I didn’t even notice like if they started to feel sick or even those first steps. And there are also activities they do, so they don’t just put your kids in front of a TV. Bottomline, they put the care in daycare at the Y North Branch Kids Zone. 

    Want to see my other 3 reasons I love my Y? Then check them out here on Mom2MomDFW.com. 

    So the question isn’t really “Why the Y”, but why not?  



    (Just ^ press the button above ^ to donate!)


    1005 Skyline Drive
    Arlington, TX 76011
    (817) 548-9622



    Pure Results with NEW Pure Barre Arlington

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    Disclaimer: I received a trial class in exchange for this review. However, the opinions expressed here are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

    Try-it Tuesday:

    I’ve tried a LOT of workouts in my journey to be healthy. Some of them, like my trip to CitySurf Fitness and Politicians Pole Dancing took a lot of coordination. So I was relieved when I found out that there was a Pure Barre opening in my neck of the woods. (The same of the neck of the woods that is home to every major restaurant chain in the universe all down one road and scored in the top 20 as one of the Fatest Cities in America.) 


    And the thought of moving like a ballerina and flexing my leg looked pretty easy, so I was gonna be like the next Black Swan. 


    Oh, did I have a lot to learn. 

     While Pure Barre does mirror many movements used by ballerinas with the use of the barre, it is so much more. Considered an “intelligent exercise” (because smart women like me do it…not really, but the idea made me laugh), the PBT is a total body workout using small isometric movements set to contemporary music to keep you paced while you burn. 

     Oh, yes, you will feel the burn. But in a good way. (Like the you-know-change-is-happening-kind-of-way!)

    Best of all, results are said to happen within 10 classes. (Now that’s good enough for me!) 

    …Read more about my Pure Barre Arlington experience here!

     Pure Barre Arlington
    2500 NE Green Oaks, Suite 128
    Arlington, Texas 76006
    817.652.2920
    Website


    Ready to can the old sweat shirt before you workout? 
    No problems, I’ve got a suggestion for you and it comes straight to your door!

    I am an affiliate of Ellie.

    Surf’s Up: How To Get Your Pamela Anderson Beach-Ready Body at NEW CitySurf Fitness {video}

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    Try-it Tuesdays:

    Cowabunga, what a workout!

    I recently went on a total adventure with CitySurf Fitness in Dallas. Always ready to try out a new fitness disclipine in efforts to get fit while having fun, this new studio in Uptown seemed right up my alley! I have never surfed and certainly need all the core work I can get, so I was excited to “ride the waves” at this new concept (backed by entreprenuer/Shark Tank’s Mark Cuban for Surfset Fitness). 
    I’ll admit I’m not a terribly coordinated gal, but I’m flexible, have balance and am willing to make a total dork of myself in the name of fitness (and a good blog post.) So I quickly went online to book my class:

    • City Surfing: fat burn, lean muscle build, extreme balance (signature class with the most time on the board)
    • Beach Body Bootcamp: strength building/cardio fitness (on the floor and on the board)
    • Buddha Board: increased flexibility and strength (think yoga on the board)
    • Big Kahuna: increased strength and size of skeletal muscles (the pros)
    For my first time, I decided to try the signature class option, City Surfing. Registration was easy, but unfortunately, parking wasn’t, so I was a little late (I recommend getting there at least 10 minutes before class to ensure your parking space and time to choose your board.)

    Thankfully the class wasn’t running too far behind, so I quickly jumped on. 

    Dude…what a change I experienced just becoming acquainted with the board. It was actually a little surreal. Like being on the water without the salt in my face and the sharks at my toes. 


    Then the sounds of hip hop, rock and a little Bob Marley flooded the room along with a buge slideshow of surfers on the wall to give you the feeling you too were riding the waves (and not just shaking like I was as my legs continued to become stronger with each move.)
    But my instructor made it look so easy and with a smile, so ever onward! I really wanted to glide as smooth as she did with each move although I know I probably looked more like a beached whale than a surfer…but I didn’t let it get me down.  So with a little motivation from a memory of Pamela Anderson running down the beach on Baywatch, I was willing to continue in hopes I could hang ten (actually more like hang on to the end of the 50-minute workout.) 

    What can I say from my CitySurf Fitness? RICT (for those of you non-surfers that means awesome!)

    The afterburn was amazing – body parts hurt the next day that I didn’t even know I had. Burning around 800 calories is totally awesome. And the experience overall totally beats a day on the treadmill. It’s definitely a great way to get your body ready for your bikini (or in my case get it out of your coverup and maybe into a tankini by the end of the summer!) 

    Class packages are available at all different ranges, but I definitely suggest the $10 “Try It” class. After attending you receive a 15% discount when you buy your first package! 
    City Surf Fitness
    2805 Allen Street, Suite 113 (look for the surf board) 
    214.880.7433
    ###

    DISCLAIMER: I received a trial class of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

    Want-It Wednesday: 5 Moves to a Perfect Bikini Body

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    Want-it Wednesdays:

    What is it I want this Want-It Wednesday? Yep, it’s a body that looks good enough in a bathing suit that it doesn’t resemble Shamu strung up in net! I’ve been working for several months, but not without a few ups and downs. So when I had the chance to speak with a woman who literally lives in a bikini all-year long, I figured she’d have some great tips to get me (and you) ready! 

    National bikini competitor Angeles Burke shares  her secret workouts that keep her bikini-ready throughout the year! A member of the National Physique Committee (NPC), A.F.A.A. certified fitness instructor and Celsius sponsored athlete, Angeles knows the importance of staying fit and healthy. Her experience competing has taught her workouts that pinpoint and tone areas of the body that will make that swimsuit look great – and have you look your best, as well. Her workouts are great to sneak in anywhere, whether you’re at the gym, on the beach mid-vacation or on the go that will lead to a fitter, more sculpted you this vacation.

    Photo credit: angelesburke.wordpress.com

    Angeles’ Beach Body Workout:

    Crab Squat Walks: 
    Just because you’re on vacation does NOT mean the workouts are over! Whether you’re lounging by the beach or at the gym, this workout will help give you the legs you’ve always wanted! If you’re on the beach, don’t give up until you reach the lifeguard chair – this is a pretty silly looking move, but it will get your booty burning!
    1. Stand with your feet in a wide stance.
    2. Drop your glutes down so that your thigh is parallel to the ground.
    3. Hold that position and then take 12 steps forward and 12 steps back. You must remain as low as possible, keeping all the weight in your heels.


    Seashell Reaches: 
    While you’re walking on the beach, why not kick it up a notch and make it a workout? Every few steps, practice this workout to pick up shells or rocks. If you’re at home, use a dumbbell for an intensified workout!
    1. Stand on your left foot.
    2. Lift your right foot behind you and bend your knee so your right lower leg is parallel to the floor.
    3. Bend forward at your hips, and slowly lower your body as far as you can. Pause, then push your body back to the starting position.
    4. As you come up, think about using your glutes to push your hips forward instead of lifting from your back.
    5. Keep core engaged and chest up during the entire movement.

    Towel Side Planks: 
    While you and your friends are lying pool or ocean-side, why not get an ab workout in while you tan? These side planks are a great way to tone up – and you can do them on your towel!
    1. Lie on your left side with your knees straight.
    2. Prop your upper body up on your left elbow and forearm.
    3. Raise your hips until your body forms a straight line from your ankles to your shoulders.
    4. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
    5. Turn around so that you’re lying on your right side and repeat.

    Surf-Climbers: 
    This workout takes the mountain climber exercise and revamps it! Before running into the water or off to the pool, take a runner’s stance on the ground and get revved up to run into the surf. This will make the waves more fun – and let you burn a few calories before your swim!
    1. Get into push-up position with arms straight and hands directly under shoulders.
    2. Walk feet forward, staggering them so your right knee is bent under your chest while your left foot is behind your with knee slightly bent.
    3. Pushing powerfully into your legs, switch your foot positions, bringing the left knee in and extending the right leg.
    4. Continue alternating for 1 minute, and then take off with a final burst of energy and sprint into the waves! If at home, do a small sprint!
    Need a better visual? Then check out Angeles’ workout routine here!

    To-Do Thursdays: DFW Fun Runs with Zombies to Zebras

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    To-Do Thursdays:

     Many moms are working on things to do with Spring Break coming up next week, but I know a lot of moms are also revving up for the huge number of runs that are coming up – including this weekend. Just know that running is no longer a race, but a fun activity with everything from zombies to zebras. 

     So get on your running gear and check out this rundown of fun runs happening in DFW: 

     Zombie Run
    March 9, 2013
    Forney, Texas 

    Logo from DFWZombieRun.com

    Are you a Walking Dead fan or obsessed with zombies, but now you’ve got a run to get primed in case we the world gets taken over by them! 

    • Before the race, you will be given a belt with 4 flags attached to it. These flags represent your health. During the race, zombies will be scattered across the course to eat your brains… err get those flags. One zombie can only get one flag from you.
    • No hitting, throwing or real biting allowed.
    • Upon crossing the finish line, you need at least one health flag intact in order to be eligible for prizes. Should you lose all your health flags, you are still allowed to finish the race and your time will be recorded but you shall be considered “dead” and no longer be eligible for a cash prize. Turn in your belt and get tickets for the non-cash prizes.
    • If you find yourself out of health flags, you are not considered a zombie and are not allowed to start pulling at other runner’s flags.

    Survive the challenge? You can score money, glow sticks, medals, music and free beer. 

     The Color Run
    April 6, 2013

    SOLD OUT

    (Photo credit: from The Color Run 5K)

    The Color Run™ event is a unique experience focused less on speed and more on crazy color fun with friends and family. Color runners come from all different ages, shapes, sizes, and speeds; but everyone toeing the start line has a blast. Whether you are a casual morning mall walker or an Olympic athlete, the 3 miles of The Color Run™ course will be the most memorable and colorful run of your life! 

     Since you can’t register for this one, you’re in in luck – there’s another fun “color-themed” fun with Color Fun Fest 5K, May 11 and you can sign up now for more than 50% off! 

     Fort Worth Zoo Run
    April 20, 2013

     Early registration guarantees a Zoo admission ticket, a race bag, a T-shirt, as well as a timing chip, if desired. T-shirt sizes based upon availability. Strollers are invited to attend at the back of the line! Then of course, visit the zoo when you get to the end of the line!


    The Survival Race
    April 27, 2013

    (Photo Credit: The Survival Race website)


    The Survival Race is designed for fun and although you’re going to be running, jumping, climbing, crawling and working hard, it’s more like exercise in disguise…You’ll be having too much fun to think of the challenge, plus the crowds, which may include your own friends and family, are going to be rooting you on! 

    • The Official Survival Race T-Shirt
    • The Energetic and Awesome Live Tunes From Our Race Band, The Pulse!
    • Free Digital Picture Suite – Our professional photographers will be dispersed throughout the 5k-race course, waiting to capture the essence of you and your awesome adventure…this is our gift to you, for being a Survival Racer.
    • Official Survival Race Post-Race Dog Tag – You must finish the race to earn your right of passage.
    • Chip Timing: Every participant will be provided with a chip timer. You will be able to check your results online or live at the event. Not everyone wants to compete…no worries, simply have fun, take your time and complete the race!


     Right now you can get registration for this event at half off, with this link (for a limited time only.)
    Tasty Run 5K & Fun Run
    May 18, 2013

    Are your taste buds up for a challenge?  If so, get ready for the 1st Annual Tasty Run located at the food and fun festival, Taste Addison 2013.  The Tasty Run will feature a 5K and Fun Run with Tasting Stations from Addison’s restaurants along the route.  Bite size samples will keep runners satisfied and entertained as they race through the streets of Addison.  Individuals, teams and costumes welcome!  Restaurant booths along the course will have a Best Theme competition and the winner will be announced during the Awards Ceremony. Registration includes food, shirts and admission to Taste Addison! 

    Rolling in the Deep: Jiu Jitsu Done Family Style

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    Try-It Tuesday:

    Being pinned down on the ground is normally not the way I like to workout (at least not most the time). However, when it involves burning up to 600-800 calories, teaching discipline AND spending time with my kids, I can definitely be convinced.
    Don’t worry, that’s not me in the middle since someone had to
    take the photo.

    And that’s exactly how I found myself at the Independent Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy in south Arlington. Surrounded by people of all ages, I was able to explore the whole new world of jiu jitsu. Opening its doors last October, the staff (who also work as firemen and other community roles by day) has more than 60 years of combined experience that allow them to focus on not just the sport of jiu jitsu, but also how it can arm women with self-defense skills and help children deal with the ever-growing issue of bullying.

    The guy on top? It was his first day and his first class, too. 
    While I was very hesitant to get into the thick of things, I quickly learned you just had to get in there and do it. From the moment you give respect to the mat (which you do every time you enter the mat area), I felt immediately comfortable and safe as I listened intently to the instructors about how to perform the proper techniques to defend myself by taking the “fight to the ground.” I also learned that the focus of the practice wasn’t just the technique, but also by empowering its students to build confidence, discipline and awareness, I was also arming myself with skills that could prevent me from being put in compromising situations as well as how to protect myself if I was.

    Be careful if you see me in a dark alley…I can take care of my own
    (with some more practice, of course.)
    But what I was most impressed about at the studio was the environment and opportunity it provided not only me, but also for my kids. Bullying isn’t necessarily a new issue for kids to have to deal with, but it certainly is a growing one as kids find new ways to hurt their peers like through texting and internet. As a mom of two young children, it’s definitely a topic I have to deal with; teaching to not bully as well as how to handle themselves appropriately in the case that they are a victim. And just like any parent, I’d like to provide them all the skills necessary to make good decisions and to be the best that they could be. That is also the same mission as the Independent Brazilian Jiu Jitsu studio’s family classes.

    Learning jiu jitsu as a family can teach your kids how to take care of themselves
    (and you if you don’t attend with them…just kidding.)
    That’s right, game night has changed in 2013 – now we have family jiu jitsu! It’s actually such an incredible concept, as parents are allowed to take classes with their children to not just understand what their child is learning, but also to engage with their child as they learn and grow together in their practice. With parents working so hard to juggle family time, workout time, and the other fuss of the day, Independent Brazilian Jiu Jitsu allows the entire family to benefit without adding one more tasks you need to try to fit into those already crammed-backed schedules.
    If you’re still scared that “fighting” is not your thing, first, understand – it’s all about protection! Second, I invite you to go into any of their classes (see schedule below) and see exactly how comfortable, fun and empowering the experience can be. And if you’re ready to get your grapple on, then give them a call to set up your membership. Best of all, if you mention this article, you get half off membership when you sign up.

    Independent Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
    7201 South Cooper Street Ste 111
    Arlington, Texas 76001
    817.475.0500
    IBJJA Class Schedule 

     Monday:
    Kids/Family 5:45-6:30pm
    Adult Basic 6:45-7:45pm
    Adult Advanced 7:45-8:45pm

    Tuesday:
    Adult Basic 6:45-7:45pm
    Krav Maga 7:45-9:00pm

    Wednesday:
    Kids/Family 5:45-6:30pm
    Adult Basic 6:45-7:45pm
    Adult Advanced 7:45-8:45pm

    Thursday:
    Adult Basic 6:45-7:45pm
    Adult advanced 
    No Gi 7:45-8:45pm


    Saturday:
    Kids/Family 10:30-11:30am
    Adult Basic 11:30-12:30pm
    Open Mat 12:30-2:00pm

    You Got the Look: New Gym Staples You Need

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    Me Mondays:

    When it comes to going to going to the gym, there are only a few things you need to score a great workout:

  • A great pair of shoes

  • Comfortable and cute workout wear

  • A sports bra with the right amount of support

  • And for me, an upbeat workout list


    • But what do you do with all those other things you have to keep up with like a towel, water, your id, keys and your phone? I’ve gone through a myriad of bags to keep up with everything, but when it comes down to it, I don’t need a big gym bag. However, I do need something to hold all my stuff, especially when you don’t have any pockets. Presenting the Go Caddy. 


    Designed to minimize what you carry, the Go Caddy is the ideal bag to accompany you to the gym, a long walk, going to the park, a bike ride, a ball game and even when traveling. It holds just what you need with a comfortable strap and allows you to carry the bare essentials – handsfree, so you are able to do what you need without a big bag or backpack to keep up with. 


     Buy the Go Caddy online and at some retail locations across the U.S. 

     Water is also one of the staple items that you should have with you no matter where you are, but especially when you are doing hot yoga, spin, pilates or a good run. Unfortunately, depending on where you are filling up that bottle, it may not be the tastiest or cleaniest of the water. However, did you know that with the help of a special piece of charcoal, you can create some of the cleanest water imaginable? 

    Created by the innovative designers black + blum, check out the the eau good filter water bottle. The bottle uses a filter system with binchotan active charcoal, which has been used in Japan as a water purifier since the 17th century. It reduces chlorine, balances the pH and adds minerals to the water. The unique tab on the side hold the charcoal firmly in place and can be squeezed to release for easy washing. The bottle looks like glass, but is actually made of BPA-free tritan, a crystal clear and very sturdy plastic. After about 6 months, the charcoal can be recycled for many uses including removing odors from shoes, the refrigerator, etc. or sprinkled in the garden to help plants grow. 

    I’ll be honest, you’ll definitely have people looking at your water bottle trying to figure out what’s in it, but rest assured you’ll have the freshest look and taste. 

    DISCLAIMER:
    I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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