Avoid negative thinking for optimal fitness

The difference between CAN and CANNOT are only three letters. But three letters that can mark the difference in a persons life direction.

How many times have you found yourself frustrated because "you feel" you can't do something?

How many times have you found yourself sabotaging your own efforts in whatever you may be doing in life just because you don't believe in yourself?

I'm not referring to the person who gets frustrated for, whatever reason may be, yet easily moves on and is able to maintain an optimistic outlook on things. I'm referring to the person who is overly critical of themselves. Nothing ever seems to be good enough. Everything is always viewed from a negative perspective.

Admittedly... at some point in our lives we've all been there or have experienced similar thoughts, even if just for a brief moment. So then, where do we draw the line? What makes it different for some people to take on a bad moment or bad day and move on while others stay in a state of agony, criticism, negativity and darkness?

Based on my life experiences and of those who surround me I can honestly say, at least in my opinion, that it boils down to a few things from: the way we've been brought up by our parents, work and school environment, siblings, social stereotypes, broken relationships, scars from the past, culture, eating disorders, depression, obsessive compulsions, etc. 

As a fitness trainer I see a huge connection between fitness, health, relationships, work, finances, family, sports and overall life. When you learn discipline and apply it to your fitness regimen that tends to rub off on to things in your life. Being fit gives you a sense of confidence, builds morale, makes you a better spouse, a more productive employee or a happier boss, makes you smile often and enjoy life in a better way.

I'm not saying life is perfect just because you make time to exercise. However you do develop a different perspective. Today for example a new training client of mine told me that she would feel proud of herself by sticking to a fitness program and achieving her goals of getting fit, toned, and increasing her overall performance. Her connection to starting an exercise program and life, is the fact that she already quit smoking, is dropping soda drinks and wants to become a role model for her daughter while enjoying life with her husband.

Can you think of a better outlook than that?

My point is that you either CAN or CANNOT.... but the choice is yours. Life doesn't has to be a constant struggle. And if you do find areas where you are most challenged, there are ways to make things easier or at the very least become optimistic.

The first thing you can do that will go a long way is to avoid negative thinking. Fight it as much and as bad as you can.

When it comes to exercise don't focus on things your body is not ready to do or may be impossible to do for many reasons. Focus on the things you can do and make sure you do them right. There are many people who are physically challenge and for them many exercise methods and styles of training are out of the question, however they find ways to overcome these obstacles in a constructive manner.

In my years of training I've seen many people with disadvantages, nursing an injury, beginners to exercise, very obese, etc. I would say however that a good majority of them have taken the challenge to better themselves and have done so in a positive way, finding and discovering what they really are made of.

Sadly the others have a tendency to complain, criticize, sabotage their efforts, become needy, always giving half the effort, draining themselves and those around them with negative talk, and ultimately most end up quitting.

If this is you STOP! Don't do this to yourself. Believe in your ability to change and be better.  Focus on the things you CAN control and not on things you can't. Don't compare yourself with other people, don't minimize your accomplishments, instead invest the energy on creating a positive environment and positive thinking.

 

Even if you feel life has dealt you a bad hand (I know s*** happens), it doesn't defines you and you don't need to feel sorry for the rest of your life. So change that and become more optimistic. Find the positive in different things that life may throw at you.

When it comes to exercise never quit and always do your best within your own circumstances.

Don't approach life with a defeated attitude or you'll miss the opportunity to reach your full potential. Use your mind the right way (POSITIVE THINKING) and you'll soon notice how better exercise, work, relationships and life in essence will be.

How To Avoid The Slowdown Syndrome

As of today, we are now about 14.5% into 2012. The question is are you 14.5% closer to your goals?

If you are kudos to you and keep working hard towards achieving excellence. If you are not, you still have time to get things headed in the right direction.

Sometimes what I've noticed that slows your progress, is that many people tend to skip on their workouts and take too many cheat meals sabotaging their own efforts.

Other times, however, even with the best intention and sticking 80 to 90% of the time to your plan, you still find it hard to see any progress made in your fitness quest.

The truth of the matter is that as much as being compliant with your training and nutrition program, there are many other factors that can impact how much you progress. Often time some of these are out of your hands and some you can actually manage with a few tweaks here and there.

Lets talk about at least 3 of these factors: SLEEP - STRESS - GROUP ENVIRONMENT

Today I will focus this post on SLEEP only (I'll cover the rest on the next couple of days one topic at the time).

SLEEP is essential for you to lose weight and maintain or grow your muscles. When you sleep, your body goes to work by helping you recover and rebuild muscle tissue. When you don't get enough sleep your immune system gets weak, you tend to gain weight and store fat and your overall performance, mood and energy is affected.

This occurs because your body has a hard time balancing hormones. Lack of sleep will affect how these interact.

Lack of sleep increases cortisol: when you don't sleep enough your body releases too much cortisol (a stress hormone) which in turn makes you release and store more fat and breaks down your muscles as an energy source.

Lack of sleep reduce testosterone: This in turn creates a significant drop in testosterone (men or women it doesn't matters) which leads to loss of muscle gain, strength and performance.

Lack of sleep reduces human growth hormone production, which mainly occurs when we sleep. An important natural occurring hormone for muscle repair and growth.

Lack of sleep affects insulin levels. It causes a demand for more insulin which leads to you gaining more fat and could lead to diabetes.

In short a drop of sleep hours below 6.5 to 7 hours a night leads to muscle loss, your metabolism slows down, and you will gain weight and store fat.

You should aim for at least 7 hours a night of proper sleep to insure your body gets what it needs for optimal performance.

If you have a hard time sleeping, consider the things that take place during the night that leads just before to bed time.

Avoid:
- as much stress as possible, especially within the hours prior to going to sleep.
- caffeine, at least 5 - 6 hours before bedtime can interrupt your sleep or keep you awake, robing you from precious sleep time
- alcohol can also interrupt your sleep, not to mention that in its self too much of it leads to muscle breakdown. Limit the amount you drink as much as possible. 
- if you have a sleeping partner, I can't recommend much that would be healthy in case they are the reason you are not getting proper sleep... So try to at least make sure your bed is comfy enough that will help induce your body to rest.

If you follow the above advice and get your Zzzzz in, you are off to saving your precious muscle, losing fat and feeling good. Of course like I mentioned above there are other factors you must consider in your quest for fat loss and muscle gain, outside of exercise and nutrition.

In my next post I will talk about how STRESS can affect your weight loss and muscle building goals.

Proper etiquette and why I prefer Fitlorenzo Training Center

The other day I had a post on my Facebook page about proper etiquette and common sense in a gym setting. I was angered to see people, and by this I mean adults not conducting themselves in a proper manner.

Let me explain, I was traveling and staying at this hotel that had an okay fitness room, better than what most hotels have. As I'm training this idiot who is only checking out the girl running (and minding her own business) on the treadmill, walks right through in front of me when I was doing some burpees with dumbbells.. either he or I could've gotten hurt (and you know it would've been him... anyways).

The entire gym at 7am was empty!!! He could've walked anywhere in the gym, go around me, around the other machines, etc.The point is he decides to cut me off right when I was making my moves and he did it twice when I was using a different equipment while performing other exercises. He turns around and gives me this look as if.... I swear I wanted to smack him.

Many of my followers and friends on Facebook started sharing their take on this and how as a society whether we are at the gym, the salon, driving, the supermarket, at retail stores, at the bank, work.... anywhere we have lost proper behavior skills. It's like they don't care no more or have lost entirely the essence of common sense.

This is one thing I surely don't miss from the commercial gym setting. Don't get me wrong I miss my pals and a bit of the socializing and meeting new people... but I'm glad I'm not a part of it anymore.

Most gym goers don't clean after themselves, don't clean the equipment, leave stuff laying around, and throw garbage all over. I hate going into a public restroom and having naked guys walking around as if they are alone... I mean WTF? Bear in mind it happens on men's and women's restrooms.

Some of the comments on this topic on my Facebook page where: 

"It ties in with the spirit of entitlement that a lot of people have! It's extremely frustrating when people can't see beyond the end of their own noses!!"

Another said: "common sense is the sense less common...

And: "How do you think we who work in retail are treated on a daily basis!!! RUDE>>RUDE>>RUDE!!!! Everyday, yelling talking down to you as if you are ignorant, and for no reason, just because they are the customer. No manners or politeness. Sad"....

One guy said: "Ed it's time to drop the manners and kick some ass"...

As good as that may sound, I must say I'm extremelly happy in my new home - Fitlorenzo Training Center. It's not an open gym so I don't have tons of people all day long in and out treating the facility as nothing. We keep a clean environment and my clients are awesome when it comes to this. If anything is out of place a friendly reminder sufices. People come to this training center for one reason either in private or semi-private training they get down to business and getting in shape. It may sound simple but it's effective, it's what I do.

I realize not everyone is able to come to our training center (I wish - World domination here we come!!!) but if you are going to the gym or another training facility be mindful of the people around you, don't make a mess and clean the equipment after you're done using them. Not only is this having proper manners, but it is also a healthy measure as in a gym setting things can spread very fast.

Word of caution if you notice that guy or girl in corner with crazy eyes about to get it on and attack the weights.... get out of the way; don't talk to them, don't cross their path. They are there for a reason and it isn't you.

This month many people will hit the gym. Keep your manners and stay focused on the reason why you started in the first place.

If you are local to the Manatee County, Fl area I invite you to come in and check us out at Fitlorenzo Training Center, we are serious about incresing strength, performance and fat loss. 

Call today 941-729-5217 or e-mail info@fitlorenzo.com

Your 2012 Expectations...

New Years resolutions are tough! I mean anyone can make a resolution, which seems to be the norm every time January rolls in. But sticking to your resolutions requires a bigger commitment.

Every year millions of people around the world make for the most part the same resolutions: make more money, lose weight and something else like quit smoking. But in the end it seems that most people find it hard to stick to their resolutions and fail.

There are reasons why people fail at reaching their goals.

1. You set unrealistic goals... Losing 40 pounds in two weeks is unreal. When you set real expectations its not hope, rather a commitment to do something. For example when you start a new job and they tell you that you are expected at 8am to clock in, you are there at 8am. If not then you are fired; you can't blame the economy rather you didn't do your job. Same thing happens with your fitness goals, YOU ARE IN CONTROL OF THEM... When you set real expectations it becomes easier over the course of the days, weeks and months to stick with it and become more motivated as you progress and see good results.

2. Write down your goals. Fitness, financial, relationship, everything... it's like mapping out life for the next 12 months. Your goals are not unclear anymore. "I wanna lose weight"... is not a goal. "I will drop 10 pounds by the end of February"... Now that's a clear goal. Its a very healthy exercise, but it also helps keep you accountable as if you are writing a contract to yourself. Nothing more empowering than that to help you follow through.

3. Find the "WHY" factor. I ask all my clients "WHY" are you here? "WHY" are we doing this? Understanding "WHY" you are here, "WHY" you wish to accomplish so and so goals will help keep things in perspective especially when the time comes that you start feeling a bit out of it, start slacking or feel unmotivated. You are reminded of your WHY and suddenly you get back on track and won't need to wait till next year to make new resolutions.

4. You lack support. Having a group of people who understands and supports you is crucial towards achieving your goals. There are times when you just don't want to, we are tired, fatigued, life keeps beating you down... Your support group will lift you right up and won't let you quit. This could be your family, friends, coworker, fitness buddy, you name it.

At FITLORENZO training center we create a friendly atmosphere for training and staying on track. From friends, to workout partners to your coach, everyone works together in order to accomplish the goal. 

5. You lack a plan, and so you are unprepared. Sure you have an idea of what you may want but have no clue how to get it done. Few people just exercise to just exercise. Most people especially this time of year are in it for bigger reasons - it may be to improve health, overall fitness levels, to improve performance, have a body they can show off, feel better, confident, sexy, whatever.

But a solid plan that is in line with your goals the better the chances your will reach your goals faster.

Make your plan real and simple. For example:

Goal: Lose 15 pounds in 90 days.
Action Plan: 
Step 1: Stop drinking soda today.
Step 2: I will sleep at least 7 hours each night.
Step 3: Eat more fruits and veggies over the course of the next few weeks
Step 4: I will make sure to get 3 to 4 good workouts in every week.

Step 5: I am going to hire a personal trainer to help me get started on my goals and help me map out my plan for the year.

This is an example of how you can incorporate an action plan geared towards your goals. For every person it may look different and of course nobody is perfect, maybe you hit and miss on a few days. But by incorporating these guidelines into your lifestyle you will be eating and training much better, and thus you will improve the chances of reaching your goals and sticking to them. If you follow them I know you will be on your way to your best body in 2012!!!

At FITLORENZO we are all about helping you getting your best body in 2012! We have plenty of cool stuff about to happen in the course of the next few months. We are looking forward to having a great year and want you to be a part of it.

Call us TODAY 941-729-5217 and find out what FITLORENZO can do for you.

Results For The Holiday Fat Loss Challenge!

The results are in for our 3rd annual Holiday Fat Loss Challenge.

This was a 25 day challenge in which participants were given a day by day meal plan and joined our fitness boot camps and /or personal training programs; some participants followed an at home training program that given to them.

We had many success stories and I'm very proud to be part of this group who took serious the challenge of losing weight and improving their lives, especially during the holiday season when it can be a very difficult task. The overall result self-betterment and nothing can beat that!

That being said we do have an overall winner and second place... The results!!!

Drum roll please!!!!



First Place: Jen Kellman
Lost 12 pounds and 1.8% body fat



For winning she gets 2 months of fitness boot camp access, a Fitlorenzo t-shirt and a $100 bill!!!!




Second Place: Michelle George

Lost 9.2 pounds and 1.9% body fat



Second place prize is 3 one-on-one personal training sessions and a body spray tan provide by The Nail Nook in Palmetto, Fl.





Very soon I'll be sharing some of their stories and the journey during the last 3 weeks.

We had some other participants who had some great success also. Even though they didn't win the challenge they definitely are better and looking great.

Among a few of them are Lisa Coleman and Scott Kellman who both lost 8.4 pounds, while Heather Kennedy lost 7 pounds.

You can be the next person to lose 5, 8, 10 or more pounds in a very short time. Think about it: What are you waiting for?

January 2012 is just a few days away!! If you want to be successful like the people above you need one thing: TO TAKE ACTION!!

Taking massive action is about choice. You have the option to do something great or nothing at all.

Success then will be determined by how focused you are on your goals. It's about the little things you are doing NOW, TODAY. There's no better advice I could give you to make you realize the truth behind those words.

If your goals... ahem, aheam - I mean if your expectations are to get fit, lose weight, build muscle and become the best of you in 2012, then contact me at FITLORENZO Training Center and together will workout towards making this happen. 

Dedicated to your success!

Do you kick ass... or just kind of want to?

33 days left in 2011. Looking back would you consider yourself successful? Did you dropped the fat? Lose the weight? Got in shape? Conquered your fears and became better, fitter, leaner? Have you reached your goals?....

You probably worked very hard and intensive to reach your goals in the first half of the year and proudly you accomplished them. But somewhere in between, you lost it and find yourself half way back where you started, if not more.

It can happen even to the best of us, no doubt.

But this is the thing, out of every 10 people that I know 2 are still standing strong, have never looked back and they leading the pack. 4 started off on the right path and somehow regressed a few steps (if lucky)... 4 never started.

There is something wrong with that picture, and if you don't do something about it NOW, FAST... down the road in 2012 you will find yourself in the spot you are today.

Whatever it is that is holding you back, you must figure out. Many people talk about getting fit, being healthy, dropping fat, going to a wedding a reunion, vacations, etc... all of which they seem to be using to psych themselves up into training mode. But with all the talk about the importance of wanting it, the clear question is: How serious are you?

I mean do you really want this, or do you kind of want this... There's a huge difference between one and the other.

When you kind of want it you will speak about potential goals, you will day dream with a better physique and wish you could be like the others who look awesome and always appear to be in a much more advance level than you, you will call the trainer, nutritionist, shop around for gyms, make a lot of noise... But then you back off and and blame it on obstacles, life challenges, being to busy, its to tough, this makes me sweat, and so many other things as to why you can't or won't. In the end it becomes a matter of too much talk and nothing to show for.

And if by any means you do take some sort of action it always ends up being a half ass effort on your part...  which ultimately gets you out of the race.

On the other hand when you really want it NOTHING in this world will stop you. No matter how long it takes or how hard it may be. NOTHING will stop you from getting there. Desire and passion will make the difference.

The people who are most successful in life, business, relationships, sports and in the gym... not necessarily have the best talent or where born into greatness. Simply put the most successful work their ass off day in and day out. Nothing derails them for their ultimate goal.

Just like the rest the successful ones have problems, obstacles, challenges of all sorts. Many suffer from broken relationships, scars from their past, financial problems, many are parents, husbands, wives, students, business people, athletes, soldiers... you name it.

When things go well they use it as energy to focus better, when things go down and are shitty they use it as fuel to continue pushing forward. The successful ones, those who really want it make a strong connection between their fitness level and athleticism to life, they always want to achieve greatness in all fields of life.

Listen no matter what you are going through, it affects you in your own personal way. However we all go through many challenges and have experienced many failures in life. I could write a book of all my failures.. Truth is I have no one to blame but myself. But I'm still standing, and this year besides many ups and downs I'm still here, haven't quit, I'm more determined than ever to be stronger and better for myself and those around me.

Looking forward if I want to be a better husband, a better person, a better coach, a business man, an improved athlete; then I must bring my A game all the time. If I slack in my dedication or abandon my training quest, then I'll drop the ball across the board and fall short in many aspects of my life.

I can tell with many of my clients after a very tough workout, their shirt drained in sweat, body fatigued barely able to move but are proud that they made it through. In the end they become more productive in their lives, business, relationships... its that connection that the successful one's have.


Putting the effort to improve your training and performance will make you a better person.

So listen if you "kind of want it"... stay home and realize there's no time for half assing your workouts and the things in your life. Take the time to rethink everything and the direction your headed. 

Now if your goal is to improve life, performance, fat loss; and you "really want it" then make no mistake... every rep, every set, every second, every inch of sweat counts.

Think about this next time your considering to skip or half ass your workout and nutrition habits. Keep your focus and I bet you'll finish the next 33 days strong, start 2012 on top and remain there, because you understand the importance and value this will have in your life.

Dedicated to your success!!

- ed

COMING SOON!!

FITLORENZO TRAINING CENTER COMING SOON!!

Fitlorenzo Training Center is not your average gym - we don't accept excuses - only RESULTS!!

The training center is based around our Results oriented programs that are designed to effectively get you in shape, challenge you and help you achieve your goals. We are not an open membership based gym, rather a private and semi-private training facility housing everything you need to increase performance, strength & fat loss.

At Fitlorenzo Training Center we don't just do exercise; we are the premier fitness training center for those who are serious about exercise, enjoying life, increasing performance and achieving results.

GET THE BODY YOU'VE ALWAYS DREAMED OFF

Some of our programs include:

1-on-1 Private Training & Coaching

Strength & Conditioning Boot Camp

Youth Sports Fitness 

Nutritional Coaching

Stay tune for more updates coming soon!

For additional inquiries please e-mail us or cal 941-729-5217

Simplicity

This week Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees reached a milestone. He became the all time leader in regular season saves with 603 as of today (and still counting), and has a post season ERA of 0.71 and 42 post season saves (an all time best as well) and still going strong as the Yankees make a push in the post season this year.

Undoubtedly he is the best ever in his position in Major League Baseball. However what makes it even more impressive... he's accomplish all of this success with one single pitch, that's all nothing else. I mean everyone he faces in baseball knows he's gonna throw you the cutter. Sure he ain't perfect and he's been hit before, and he has lost a few games in his career. But when you enter the game (with his theme song Enter the Sandman from Metallica) everyone knows, even the opposing team that you basically lost, that's how impressive this guy is.

It ain't luck, one year, perhaps two or three with some success; but after 17 years... its not called luck, we call it greatness.

As I'm writing this, I just can't shake the fact he's accomplish all of this with just one pitch. Talk about simplicity.

What we learn from Mo is the lost art of simplicity. However keeping things simple doesn't means they are easy, but neither do they need to be complicated.

I see this everyday from almost everyone who surrounds me. We are constantly bombarded by this new diet, or this new gadget, or this weird treatment for weight loss and many confusing thoughts about fitness, that in turn makes it so complex... no wonder many people just give up.

In my opinion exercise and nutrition is something that works best when its simple and easy to follow. People come to me with questions about losing weight, dropping fat, and nutrition saying things such as "can I eat carbs", "should I be starving" or "what new fancy exercises I should be doing for this and that?" Yet in my intent to please whoever has taken the time to seek my advice often they respond surprised when I say that their programs are too complicated, they are doing too much and need to basically simplify it.

Someone one asked me, 'you know Ed I don't like running because I can't seem to run well and last enough, I lack the endurance to run. What can I do to get better?' My answer was run... After all how can you get better if you never practice? They where expecting a more complex answer and perhaps some fancy exercises. However my point to her was, you can't expect to be able to run 3 miles or 10 if you have never ran. You need to build up to it, it's that simple. And the same applies to many other things in fitness and nutrition.

It doesn't takes a rocket scientist to know eating chicken, lean meat and fish is always better than pizza, burgers and fries. Eating fruits and vegetables is better than cookies; and water, coffee and natural juices (if you squeeze them) will always be better than sodas and other high sugary drinks.

Eliminate from your diet all the clunk that is holding you back, have positive outlook and be realistic as to how much you can dedicate to exercising and gradually progress from there. If you are in doubt, that you can't do this on your own, then hire an expert who can show you the way.

Keep things simple and you will notice how easy things in life balance themselves out.

Train focused - Eat well - Enjoy life!!!

ed

Tuesday Rant & Random Thoughts

You know me, every once in a while I have that urge to just write down whats in my mind. I have found that by doing so I relieve some myself of some stress, I show more about me to you, and it helps with the sanity of my mind.

As always this is in no specific order, just as these things pop into my head I write them down.

1) I don't understand why people continuously sabotage their bodies, their health and basically their fitness goals.  Then they complain about how fat, ugly and out of shape they are. Listen if continue to behave and conduct yourself in the same manner nothing is going to change. Which leads me to #2

2) Exercise is very important. But you can't just throw it in all together and expect that trying a little bit of this and lot of that and then some of this, will suddenly equal fat loss and a hot body. It doesn't works that way. Your body has limits you know. More is not always the answer nor the best course for your body. I recommend: take a step back, re-think your goals and set a proper plan to get there. Once you do that allow it follow it's course. If not then you'll end up with a mess in your training program, no clue what the heck you are doing and no progression at all; which leads to more frustration. We get better not by adding things rather removing obstacles in our way.

3) We are a society of instant gratification. We want to exercise one day, eat a salad and expect to look great always, if only (of course that's a normal feeling, I would like that too). But it takes time, hard work and dedication. That's why you must allow your plan to follow its course. And it applies equally to exercise programming and meal planing.

4) With that said, you won't out train a bad diet. Forget about it!!! No amount of exercise will save you if you continue to eat crap food.

5) Stop looking at the scale everyday!! You can't go by the scale every time. Instead like I tell my clients go by how you look, how you feel, how your clothes fit, how people look at you and the overall of your body measurements and body fat.

6) It's very hot outside and the weather in Florida is just bananas, it comes and goes as it pleases.

7)  Stay hydrated!!! Lack of water causes the body to slowly shut down; muscles don’t work well, metabolism slows down, and the body goes into a shell in order to preserve energy. Look to drink at least half your body weight in ounces per day. More if you are exercising.

8) Turkish get ups and dumbbell snatches kick my ass.

9) I have to run a 5K in November... I hate running for long distances. But a promise is a promise!!

10) Sweat tea has a lot of sugar. You are better off drinking green tea and water!!

11) I see many people feel sorry for themselves and the way their lives is being played out. But if you continue down the same road, you already know where it leads. What you need is a change in direction and purpose. Sadly change will only happen if you allow it to happen and accept it.

12) Simplify your live is the key to success. Sometimes we must learn to let go. And that means letting go of the junk that has followed you for years or letting go of the junk you tend to follow. Be it people, relationships, your home town, and so many things that weigh you down. I have a friend who did just that at the start of this Summer and decided to let go, and move on into what would fulfill her life; and I'm proud of her cause shes doing what she wants to truly do.

13) Don't judge people, just let them go. Perhaps you are doing them more of a favor, than trying to hold on to them. In fact, I believe, we honor them by allowing them to move on.

14) Take time to meditate.

15)  NFL lockout, NBA lockout, possibly MLB lockout and Government lock-down is getting on my nerves...

16) I know some great coaches and I know some horrible trainers. Sometimes it comes down to how you identify with a specific person to allow them to coach to success. That being said not because you are friends with a trainer/coach means you should follow their techniques no matter what; after all its not about making you sweat, rather making you better.

17) Its funny how fast foods chains market their products like its no body business. But the supposed health products, diet pills and weight loss programs are marketed in secrets and private meetings at someone's house in a "health party or get together event". If they are that good, why keep it a secret, and why is it that no self respected fitness and wellness coach ever promotes them? Most of the time I see people who have no clue on fitness and health promoting these as the next best thing... who made you an expert? If these products are soooo good why advertise them in an infomercial at 4 in the morning?

18) There is no perfect body, but in the quest for perfection we find excellence.

19) It seems to always be a Tuesday when I decide to share my random thoughts.....

I can do this all day and just keep going and going. For now that's about right...

I hope you have a wonderful day.

WHY NOT?

I had a conversation with a close friend who’s been trying to lose some weight and drop body fat. He’s done well in the past and has managed to bring his weight down and keep it there for a while. He’s a strong guy; he was very athletic when younger and can still hold his own when competing. He’s a smart guy, and wants to dedicate more time to his health and physique. Just like everyone else (at least almost everyone I know) he’s freaking busy so he needs to manage and find ways to make it happen. What struck me during our conversation was when he said “I know I can lose a bit more weight, and drop some good body fat; though I know I’ll never look very slim, have a six-pack abs or be like I was when younger”…. I’m like WHAT???? WHY NOT??? WHO THE HECK SAY’S YOU CAN’T?

It’s not the first time I hear this way of thinking. Many times I get an inquiry from a client, a potential client or just a friendly conversation with one of my peeps, saying I want to lose weight, get in shape, look good and feel better. As we go over the details as to what to be expected and what they’ve done so far, almost always I get an “I’m willing to work hard, be dedicated and follow your guidelines, Ed. But I know I’ll never be a size this or that again, or I’ll never look like an athlete again or feel how I used to back in the old days”…

Again, WHAT???? WHY NOT??? WHO THE HECK SAY’S YOU CAN’T?

Listen give me one good reason as to why you can’t achieve your goals? Be a size 4 or 2; drop your body fat to a level that is not only decent but will make you proud and the envy of everyone around you?  Other than you saying “you won’t, you can’t” (basically not believing in yourself) there’s no reason as to WHY NOT!!!

I mean seriously, what is it? I’m shocked as to how many times I get the same answer. One day I pressed on one of my clients and she finally accepted that the reason was because she didn’t wanted to set high expectations so that when she fails, it would be alright…. 

Again: WHAT??

There is no reason in my opinion as to why you can’t reach your goals and become the best version of you, right now. I’m not saying it’s an easy process – I’m just saying it’s not impossible.

Maybe you are not to blame entirely; after all we’ve become a society of instant gratification. We want everything right now, in an instant. So when you decide to start your fitness program you are expecting results overnight and when that doesn’t happens you get disappointed, discouraged, angry and you may even see it as a failure cause you tried and nothing. 

Then again it’s not a big disappointment because you didn’t set high expectations or any real ones for that matter. 

On the hand the reason could also be that you are just lazy. Please note my intention is not to offend you, rather put some truth into this. 

Ask yourself, am I really putting all my heart and effort into being healthy, fit and living life the best way I can? Am I a real role model for my family, for my kids or am I just a joke for them… I preach to them to be active and eat well yet I take them to eat burgers, fries, drink sodas and let them get away with anything, while you also eat yourself fat and have many other health issues? 

Do you spend your weekends drinking with your buddies expecting on Monday to have energy to go through the day, none the less get through your workouts? 

That lifestyle will never produce real, permanent results... simple. 

Stop making excuses that you can’t exercise or eat well because you are busy, you’ve got work, vacations, or the economy is tight, so on and so forth. 

Stop allowing other people and circumstances dictate what you do with your life and what you can get out of it. You are in control.  Always remember that!  

As I’ve said before it takes a strong belief system to keep yourself on track. 

Look at the goal, prepare your mind, get rid of the naysayers, the bad company, and the negative thoughts and decide to work your butt off until you reach your goals. It won’t happen overnight, but your constant effort and dedication will lead you into the right way and ultimately to a better, leaner, sexier and healthier you.

Isn’t it worth it? 

Listen believe in yourself, as I believe in you!

Fat Loss Success!!!

Congrats to Angie!!

This past month she took the challenge to better herself and her nutrition. She's such a hard worker and it has paid off.

Hard work, dedication and discipline always works!! Between being on target with her nutrition and consistently working out she managed to lose 10 pounds, 4% body fat and over 4 inches off her body in the last 28 days!!! Truly amazing and such an inspiration. 

1) What made you start coming to FITLORENZO Boot Camp?

- The idea of a "boot camp" sounded perfect for me.  I've always been an active person my problem is that I get bored easily.  Going to boot camp, I never know what I'm going to do or what body part I'm going to work out.  It's always something different and that's why it works for me.

 

2) Were you nervous when you first started?  How do you feel now?

- I wasn't so much nervous as I was excited to get the show on the road.  I love the class.  I'm glad I joined.  I've been pushed beyond what I thought was my limit and I don't think I've even reached my full potential yet. 

 

3)  What have you accomplished since starting? Was it easy?

- I've managed to lose a little over 4% body fat, 4 inches and 10lbs in 28 days!  It wasn't the easiest process to start with but it got easier as I stuck with it.  I was pushed harder and harder at each boot camp and knowing that I had someone just a phone call (or text) away to answer my "what can I eat" question was a huge plus.

 

4) What are your future goals?

- My future goals involve sticking with FITLORENZO boot camp.  One of my goals is to have toned abs...I feel like I'm almost there thanks to ED.

 

5) How do your friends and family react to your changes?

- My friends notice how I watch what I eat, what I order at restaurants, they see how strict I am with my eating habits and they are the first to comment on the change in my body.  They notice the difference before I do.  It's no secret of mine, everyone knows that I train boot camp style :)  My favorite part is when I go to a family bar-b-q and I look younger than some of my younger cousins...how I love that!  Not only am I staying in shape but it's keeping me looking young!  Gotta love it!

 

6) Looking back how do you feel now?

- Looking back...I'm glad I met Ed.  I'm glad he started boot camp and I'm glad I joined.  I'm stronger and leaner because of it.  I feel FABULOUS!

 

Well done Angie - I'm proud of ya!

Mind-fitness

"To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear"- Buddha

If I could use my strength and athleticism into work in my mind, I think I might be unstoppable. There's a powerful connection between the mind and body. One can affect each other. Sometimes it's the other way around - the mind controls the body.

Our thoughts can control our actions, our moods, our performance and ultimately the end result.It can work for the best or it can be our worst enemy. It's a hard fight we must deal with and can not run away from it. 

For example, what happens when you decide to embark on a mission to get in shape? What is your line of thinking? Are you truly committed, do you know what to expect and the sacrifices you must do to get to the place you want to? I've noticed most people don't set realistic goals. They think that by showing up once in a while to the gym, boot camp or working out at home maybe once a week, and allowing themselves to "cheat" or "treat" themselves every time with food without making any significant changes; that will be alright to get results. 

No wonder after just a few weeks they are complaining about the lack of results. What are you complaining about? If you are not willing to do what it takes, there's just no way you will ever see real results!!! 

If you go out every day and stuff yourself with crappy food, sweets and alcohol; don't expect much. But don't lie to yourself either. Sometimes the greatest lies we tell are often the lies we tell ourselves. Ask yourself: Is my way of thinking supporting my goals and building my body for success? Or does it sabotage my efforts? 

It's all in the mind. If you tell yourself you can't do it - you won't. If you tell yourself you will, you can and you must... then you will most surely find a way and stick to it cause it's that important to you.

My most successful clients have one thing in common - they want it bad and they believe in themselves no matter what.

Don't get me wrong; sometimes its not easy, in fact most of the time its not. If you're like me, which my mind never seems to shutdown, you can understand how frustrating sometimes this can be. May thoughts can cross your mind, from the positive to the negative. Thinking alone can make you exhausted... 

Why am I telling you all of this? If you don't control your mind it will control you, and it becomes hard to perform and be your best. What happens when it's workout time and you feel exhausted already? Will you ditch the workout and convince yourself you can do it another day? Everyone has days in which we don't feel like working out or we are "too busy" to fit it in. If I where to skip a workout every time I don't feel like it where would I be?

What if you are constantly just being negative and critical about yourself? This often results in a self destructive thought process. Don't you think that will affect how you see yourself, your drive to exercise and to eat healthy? In fact it can also damage your business and personal relationships. You may start thinking I'm single for a reason, I look ugly, I'm unlovable; - or if you are in a relationship you may feel fear to expose yourself and to be intimate,cause if you are not happy with the way you look you have convinced yourself that your partner isn't either. 

Listen, whatever it its that could be mind troubling to you STOP putting yourself down. Believe in yourself and control your mind, make it work for you.

In my case I have found that exercise and sports is a great way to channel my emotions, release stress, clear my mind and at the same time to open it for newer thoughts. You might see me in the gym with a piece of paper and a pen writing stuff down while working out; and its not my training program cause that's already mapped out. However I'll admit it hasn't erased my problems, my past failures and regrets. But it helps me stay sane and in control most of the time.

That's the way of the mind, my brother calls it like having a search engine built in. You think of something or someone says a word or you read  it and puff! all these memories, and mixed emotions pop out of nowhere. That you can't avoid, but you can control which path to live by. Use it as a learning experience, enjoy live, believe in yourself. 

Physically: Don't put things in your body you know are not good for you; keep your body away from situations you know aren't good for you and do work hard to be in optimal shape.

Mentally: Don't judge yourself or others too hard; knock off the guilts and resentments.Use every experience as a learning and growth opportunity. 

Take care of your mind and the body will follow.