Mmmm... Water (Part 1)

Water is an important substance that is required for pretty much everything done in the human body. It allows for chemical reactions to occur, lubrication, nutrient & vitamin delivery (in the form of digestion), waste disposal, heat dispersion, and temperature regulation.

The adult human body is composed of 45 - 60% water. The brain is made up of over 80% water. Muscle is composed of 80% water whereas fat is only 20%. As a result, the lower a person's body fat percentage, the higher the percentage of water.

Don't Quit

I don't know how many times I have watched people start to lift a heavy object, get it about 1-2 inches off the ground, then drop it. Or, they are doing a WOD and they break every 5 squats. Reasons... "That was heavy" or "My legs are starting to burn". No kidding!!! Of course the weight is going to be heavy! And yes, your legs, arms, abs, etc. are going to burn. It sucks. It sucks HUGE!!! But it's all a part of getting better, stronger, faster. The mind is a very powerful tool and it can take control of your workout not leading to any gains in strength or stamina. How many of you find yourself in either or both situation(s) mentioned above? My hand will be one of the first ones to go up with the second scenario. It has happened too many times. When this starts getting to be a repetitive thing, I go back to an article that Jon Gilson, of Again Faster, wrote back in January 2009. It inspires me to push the extra 2 or 3 reps when the muscles are on fire. It motivates me not to drop that weight just because it feels heavy. Next time you find yourself wanting to drop the weight or take a break. Don't. You will thank yourself for not quitting.

Congrats!!!

A big congratulations goes out to Alexandre Bilodeau from Montreal, Quebec. After more than 33-1/2 years, someone has finally won a gold medal on Canadian soil. Watching his performance was awe-inspiring. Then hearing the crowd's reaction when the final skier had his results posted was extremely heart warming. That, amongst other things, makes me proud to be Canadian.

Congrats Alexandre!!!

The Time Has Come

That's it!!! It's all over!!! I want to thank and congratulate everyone that took this challenge right to the end and those that dabbled in it for a bit. Even though I have seen most of you every day, I have noticed physical changes in you all. I can't wait to see how your performance is tomorrow. Great job!!!

I've heard positive things from everyone and how you feel so much better. In all honesty, I hope that each and everyone of you will continue this way of eating and not fall back into your old ways/habits. Remember it's OK to have a cheat once in a while to "enjoy" your favorites.

If you want to eat tons of chocolate today... go ahead! I've been forced to write this by a certain someone who shall remain nameless to protect her identity. Hahaha *and she doesn't even like chocolate*

Food List

If these professionals can't pronounce it, can it really be that good for you?

Milk... Does It Do A Body Good?

Dairy plays an important role in our bodies. It helps protect us from injury and/or disease. There are several nutrients and minerals found in dairy. The key players are calcium and vitamin D. However, vitamin D is added to milk because there is such a small amount that is found in lactating animals, including humans. Just a side note... Vitamin D is actually a steroid hormone. Vitamins are substances that cannot be produced by the human body whereas hormones are. Vitamin D is produced by the skin's exposure the the UV rays of sunlight. This causes different chemical reactions to occur resulting in the production of Vitamin D. Enough about that.

One Week To Go

One week left in the Nutrition Challenge. I am happy to say that I have heard positive things from those participating. I'm even noticing a difference on body type too. Some abdomens are getting more defined, some pants are fitting loosely (as evident by people tugging on the waistband to prevent them from falling down during double unders or box jumps), and stamina and strength appears to be improving.

Since the gym will be closed Monday February 15 (Family Day) all testing will be done on Tuesday February 16. Measurements will taken and the CrossFit Total and Baseline WOD will be performed.

Breakfast

Breakfast is the combination of two words. Break and fast. It refers to the time when you end the fasting period after your last meal the previous day.

Breakfast is the meal of the day that is most often skipped. It is probably the most important meal of the day. Not only does it help with weight management, but it fuels the body to provide energy, and allows for better concentration throughout the day. It helps curb the appetite throughout the day by preventing any binge eating or constant snacking. If breakfast is skipped, larger meals are usually eaten at lunch and dinner. Typically, 1/3 of the day's calories should be consumed at breakfast. This allows for less calories to be consumed during the rest of the day, thereby preventing the body from having to play catch up for lost calories.