Today's recipes...
Breakfast
Cinnamon Power Smoothie (via Paleo Digest)
Lunch
Pico de Gallo Chicken Soup (via Paleo Digest)
Dinner
Chilli Egg Bake (via Paleo Digest)
I've thrown around the idea of doing a kids version of "boot camp" for some time.
I'd like to ask you, if you have kids and might be interested in a fun/play version of boot camp, what times and days are best for you?
You can answer me here in the comments, or email me direct.
Maybe you got off track this weekend. Today is the day to get right back in to action.
Today's recipes...
Breakfast
Zucchini Pancakes (credit: Paleo Breakfast)
Ingredients:
- 1 medium size zucchini
- 1 medium size green onion
- 1 large egg
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Prepare:
- Grate zucchini into a small bowl.
- Finely chop 1 green onion and mix with the zucchini.
- Combine 1 large egg into the bowl and mix thoroughly adding salt and pepper to taste.
-Spoon three mounds of the zucchini mixture into the pan and fry until lightly browned, pressing down to flatten. Flip and while second side is browning.
Lunch
Lettuce Wrap, via PaleoOz.com
Dinner
Paleo Chicken Fajitas, via Paleo Diet Lifestyle.com
Fajitas are a classic in Tex-Mex cuisine and are adored universally by kids and adults alike. The classic fajita calls for skirt steak and is served with a choice of toppings over corn or flower tortilla, but this paleo take on the classic fajita meal is just as delicious without the tortilla. Today, fajitas are also commonly prepared with pork, chicken or shrimp and the usual vegetables include bell peppers and onions. Enjoy making a big batch and pleasing the whole family with this classic do it yourself dinner. This recipe serves about 5 people, but be sure to make more for leftovers.
Ingredients
Preparation
So by now you've reached day two or three depending on how often you train with us.
I'm often asked why I don't take and record these measurements. I used to do it a lot when I first got in to training some 14 years ago. My view on this is that I want you to be in control. I want you to be the one who creates the habits, and not rely on me to track your numbers.
Part of your boot camp experience is to learn and to create these habits for yourself. Our time together is short, but hopefully you'll come away with habits that will serve you for a lifetime.
It's also my part in helping you simplify things. Keeping simple notes anywhere you record your thoughts is the way to go. Don't overcomplicate things. Focus on the bascis.
Your success depends on you following through on these things. I can only suggest, but you've got to take action.
On to today's recipes...
Breakfast
Almond butter pancakes (Mark's Daily Apple)
Snack
2-3 hard boiled eggs
Lunch
Chicken Club Wrap (Mark's Daily Apple)
Ingredients:
3 large lettuce leaves
1 cup cooked chicken (leftovers is best here!), chopped into bite-size pieces
½ cup sliced red pepper
1 plum tomato, sliced
½ avocado
1 tbsp mayonnaise
If you have it on hand, feel free to add in some bacon
Method:
Wash and pat dry the large lettuce leaves. In the center of each leaf, pile all of the ingredients. Top with a dab of mayonnaise, wrap up and enjoy!
Dinner
Easy Chicken Enchilada (Mark's Daily Apple)
Ingredients:
2-3 cups of cooked chicken breast, steak or turkey
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese
¼ cup of cream or half & half
1 scallion
3 egg whites
Enchilada Sauce:
1 8oz can tomato sauce
2 cups water
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
½ tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp chili powder
First prepare enchilada sauce. In a medium skillet, warm butter and oil. Add all dry ingredients, whisk in two cups of water and tomato sauce. Stir continually until sauce thickens. Adjust spices accordingly and set aside. In a second skillet, heat chicken in a quarter cup of enchilada sauce. Bring to simmer. In a mixing bowl, add eggs and half and half and beat until well blended. Heat up small skillet, spray with non-stick spray and add just enough egg mixture to coat pan. Allow to cook through, about 1-2 minutes. Repeat till all mixture is gone (you should get about 6 crepes). Inside a baking dish, place one of the egg crepes and coat with a small amount of sauce. Add chicken, a small amount of cheese and roll. When all are rolled top with remaining sauce. Sprinkle chopped scallions and cheese on top and bake at 350 for 10-15 min or until cheese melted and bubbly.
This last weekend I had a little bit of "me time" so I spent some of it watching these films on Netflix.
The first is Bigger, Stronger, Faster. One of my favorites for exposing the slimy markeitng that is done to convince us that we need supplements and pills to be happy and lean.
The second is Ingredients,
Third, Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead
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Morning Boot Camper Cool Down
So today will be your second workout with us.
As some of you heard from your classmates, the first workout can be really tough...and the soreness may be bothering you.
Rolling with the grid, and Epsom salt baths are suggested to reduce the soreness.
Take it one day at a time. Drink plenty of water.
You can do this.
Today's Recipes
Breakfast
Snack
Small handful of almonds and an apple
Lunch
Paleo Chicken Fajitas (credit, PaleoDietLifestyle.com)
Fajitas are a classic in Tex-Mex cuisine and are adored universally by kids and adults alike. The classic fajita calls for skirt steak and is served with a choice of toppings over corn or flower tortilla, but this paleo take on the classic fajita meal is just as delicious without the tortilla. Today, fajitas are also commonly prepared with pork, chicken or shrimp and the usual vegetables include bell peppers and onions. Enjoy making a big batch and pleasing the whole family with this classic do it yourself dinner. This recipe serves about 5 people, but be sure to make more for leftovers.
Ingredients
Preparation
Dinner
Grilled Pork Chops With Tomato Peach Relish (credit, EverydayPaleo.com)
3 large garlic cloves
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 fresh lime, juiced. (Set aside 3 tablespoons for marinade)
4 (3/4- to 1-inch-thick) bone-in rib pork chops (2 1/4 pound)
1 large peach or nectarine
1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes (10 ounces), quartered
2 scallions, finely chopped
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh jalapeño chile
1/4 cup chopped basil
2 tablespoons chopped mint
2 tablespoons red-wine or cider vinegar
1 tablespoon chili powder (optional)
MARINADE:
1. Mince and mash garlic to a paste with 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. Transfer to a bowl and stir in oil and 3 tablespoons lime juice.
3. Pour marinade over chops in a glass or ceramic shallow baking dish, then turn to coat. Marinate at room temperature, turning over once, 20 minutes to 1 hour.
RELISH/SALSA:
Chop peach, then toss with remaining lime juice in a medium bowl and let stand 5 minutes.
Stir in tomatoes, scallions, chile, herbs, and vinegar. Let stand while grilling pork.
Prepare grill for direct-heat cooking over medium-hot charcoal (medium heat for gas).
Meanwhile, remove chops from marinade and pat dry, leaving any bits of garlic. Sprinkle chops on both sides with chili powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper (total).
Oil grill rack, then grill chops, covered only if using a gas grill, turning over once and moving to area with no coals underneath if flare-ups occur, until just cooked through, 12 to 15 minutes.
Serve chops with relish. Accept compliments.
And as always, enjoy!
If you are joining us for the first time, a big welcome to you.
Today I've listed a day's worth of Paleo style recipes to get you on the right track. I'll discuss later why I choose the Paleo method, but for now just know that these are great examples of what to eat while you are training with us.
Boot Camp Breakfast (Paleo Style)
Spinach Breakfast Shake
Ingredients:
Directions:
Lunch
Mango Chicken Salad (from my favorite Paleo recipe site, Everyday Paleo.com)
Snack
Larabar (you can get these at Target, Trader Joes, and Whole Foods)
Dinner
Butter Poached Salmon with Warm Tomato Relish (from my favorite Paleo recipe site, Everyday Paleo.com)
There is a proven formula to fat loss, and I am about to expose it.
And no this isn't going to be a long complex essay on counting calories, measuring foods, buying "x" amount of certain "ground breaking" supplements, or other hyped up stories that are meant to sell you something you don't need.
I've broken down the basics in what I call my "sticky note" method. Meaning that the secrets to fat loss can be contained in three simple steps which can be written on a sticky note.
1. Training- Basically move. Challenge yourself. Push yourself beyond what is comfortable. I could get in to specific programs, routines, etc., but for most...it just comes down to moving.
2. Eating- Choose the best quality vegetables, fruits, lean meats, fish, healthy oils, and nuts and seeds. Eat these, and your weight will improve drastically. Depending on how much fat you need to lose, include a cheat day, or cheat meal.
3. Rest and recovery- Sleep...plain and simple. Get enough sleep. Get off the computer, Facebook, etc., and actually make a commitment to sleep. Use a foam roller and get massages.
Any questions?
School has officially begun.
In my own case, my daughter began college last week, and my son began seventh grade today.
(My daughter at SDSU)
If you've been putting off training because you were just too busy this summer, then now is the time to restart.
Our next boot camp begins Sept. 12th..
There are two simple options for a month of training.
1. Attend 3 sessions per week for $147
2. Come twice a week for $97
Each class is approximately forty five minutes long.
These prices are the lowest I've offered in two years and I'm not sure how long they will last.
If you start now, you will lock in that rate until at least the end of the year.
If you are serious about losing that nagging fat, then please contact me. I'm ready to help.
Best, Stephen
P.S. If you have already confirmed your spot with me you can disregard this email...even better is to pass it along to a friend or co-worker who might need a little boost to get moving.
A few days ago I sent out an email motioning special, low prices on my boot camp.
For some reason or another many of you told me that you couldn't open the email.
So let me lay out the prices here. If you decide to join our next camp which begins on Sept. 12th you can sign up for only $147.
That is 12, 45 minute sessions. If you'd like to come only twice a week, that price will be $97.
These prices are the lowest I've ever offered in the two years that I've been running the camps.
Even better is that if you join now, you will lock in that rate until at least the end of the year.
If you are serious about losing that nagging fat, then please contact me. I'm ready to help.
Calendar: Reminder that we won't have classes on Labor Day.
I didn't want to leave the eveing class without posting a video of them too.
Here's a quick sample of how we burn fat in the morning boot camp class.
Over the next few days I'll be posting what I learned from over 20 workshops, lectures, and workouts that I participated in this weekend at the huge IDEA World Conference here at the LA Convention Center.
One of the most important main areas that I wanted to gain more knowledge was about eating, and most specifically how I can help my clients lose fat through the latest research and findings on diet.
One of the biggest challenges I see for my client-athletes is information overload and frustration when it comes to what to eat for fat loss and better health.
Dr. Kara MohrLet's start with some "Diet Dilemma" tips from Dr. Kara Mohr.
Dr. Mohr spoke about "riding the urge wave". She mentioned that our cravings for things ride up and down like a wave. If we can get past that "peak" of the wave oftentimes the craving will pass. She suggested substituting another activity for eating. Some good ideas are, painting your nails, taking a bubble bath, or taking a walk.
Eventually you can build up your resistance to these cravings. She gave a great example of a crying kid in the grocery store. You've seen this scene of the crying kid throwing a tantrum trying to get his way. As parents we know that giving in to the kid is most often not the best choice. If we do, the kid continues this pattern and uses it over and over to get his way. Dr. Mohr compared this to our cravings for bad foods. The less often we give in to these cravings, the stronger our will becomes.
Another tip is to have a "DEP". A designated eating place. I love this!
Create a table and a space that is special for you. Focus on your present mind while eating. This means shutting off the TV, the computer, putting down the distractions and focus on your meal and your conversation with your loved ones. Imagine how this one tip alone can transform your health!
Men and women think very differently. Unfortunately women "have a lot of stinkin thinkin", and lot's of negative thoughts.
She also suggests the "90/10 Rule". Meaning 90% of the time you'll want to eat clean, and 10% of the time you can splurge a little. For some clients she suggests this is a simple way to grade yourself on your eating habits.
The 10 dimes tip. For this tip she has clients start out with 10 dimes in their right pocket. For each negative thought the client has to transfer 1 dime to the left pocket. Think a positive thought, and transfer a dime to the left pocket. Then ask yourself "what time did you go bankrupt?"
So there you are...some great tips from Dr. Mohr to help you on your path.
Would you like to receive email tips like the one above? Join here.
9. Show up at least 10 minutes before your session begins.
10. Go at your own pace. Try not to compare yourself to the other boot campers. Many clients have been training with us for over 2 years. "Compete" with yourself. Drink water and take breaks as often as you need.
11. Give me your 100% during the session.
12. Have your post workout shake or meal ready to consume within 30 minutes after your workout.
13. Drink plenty of water during the day.
14. Use your foam roller and/or plan on getting a massage to help sore muscles.
15. Eat 3 - 5 meals today. Each meal should be composed of protein, vegetables, healthy fat, and maybe a piece of fruit (depending on how much weight you need to lose.)
16. Email me exactly what you ate and drank today. (You'll be doing this for the first 3 days of boot camp.)
17. Get plenty of sleep tonight.
The night before boot camp begins.
4. Know the location of our boot camp. Map it if necessary and plan your driving time accordingly.
5. Set out your workout clothes, shoes, water bottle, mat and beach towel.
6. Get enough sleep. You'll need anywhere from 7 to 9 hours. Don't skip this step as it will only hurt you with your chances of losing fat.
7. Plan you post workout shake or food. Don't let the next morning come and you have no clue what you are going to eat. You need to prepare to fuel your body properly.
8. Take your before pictures, front and side. Before weight, and before measurements. (You can keep these to yourself, but do it.)
Note for Friday the 12th...
I will be attending a 3 day fitness conference here in LA so I will miss both sessions on Friday.
As you know most often Marie covers for me but on this occasion her employer would not let her off.
Francesca will be teaching both classes. Some of you may remember Francesca as she attended quite a few sessions in the beginning of the year. She is a well experienced trainer and has the same certification that Marie and I have.
I have gone over the program, and you are in good hands.
I'll see you back on Monday with many new ideas and the best of what I learn over the weekend.
for those interested here is a link about the conference, http://www.ideafit.com/conference/idea-world-fitness-convention-2011
Best,
Coop
P.S. If you haven't already, please let me know if you will be returning to the next camp. Thanks :)
The week before your new boot camp begins, you'll want to set yourself up for success.
Think of these things as a check list to complete. Do not skip these steps.
1. Put You in your schedule. This means do what ever it takes to book your exercise time with us. Decide who will watch your kids, and any other adjustments you'll need to make in your life. Don't fool yourself and think that exercise just happens. You have to commit, and keep your promises to yourself and to me. Do not miss any classes.
2. Clear out any junk food in your home, and in it's place shop for lean meats, fish, vegetables, fruit, nuts, and healthy oils. Stick to this list and the results will follow. Don't stick to this list and you will remain frustrated and wondering why you aren't seeing results. (Once again take this seriously.)
3. Buy an exercise mat, water bottle, and large beach towel. This is all you need to bring to boot camp. We provide all of the equipment. You'll also want to buy a foam roller, but you will not be brining this to camp...you will use it at home to help with sore muscles.
Question from a client..."What helps keep you motivated to workout besides that its also your business?"
My response...
I believe this has changed over time. When I first began lifting I was about 13 or so. During that time it was a great way to deal with family issues. I could train hard and my mind would become blank. My only focus was on lifting. As I lifted, my body improved and I began to get compliments...this fed my ego and it just felt good. So during this time I would say that it was easy to have the time to train and the pay off was that I got positive feedback.
These days my motivation mostly comes from three areas.
One, it is my job to be fit. I need to set an example for my family and my clients. I have to walk my talk.
Secondly, I want my body to be in top shape so that when I ask it to do something like run up a couple of flights of stairs, my body responds and it happens.
I don't want to be in a situation where I want to have fun and experience life to the fullest, but because I haven't trained sufficiently, I'm not capable.
Lastly, it just makes sense. I want to live a long and healthy life, and all signs point to exercise and smart eating to achieve this.
Another client made a good comparison the other day in boot camp. We may not be motivated to brush our teeth each day, but we want to avoid problems with our teeth and our health, so we brush, floss and go to the dentist regularly. We aren't necessarily motivated to do this, we just do it.
As many of you know me, I keep my words to a minimum and like to keep my life simple.
When I make suggestions to you here or in class, I am passing along things that work in my own life.
I've come across something which I believe will really help with your goals here in boot camp. (For that matter you can use it in the other areas of your life too...any place you want to work on your goals.)
There's a neat little book originally created by Zig Ziglar, but most recently updated and curated by Seth Godin.
Goal Achievement Book by Zig Ziglar and Seth GodinThe thing I like about this book is that it is simple and right to the point.
You'll hone down your top 4 goals for the next 12 weeks.
Once you have those you'll write down the steps you took each day to get closer to your goals.
And at the end of the day you'll check off if you did enough or not. See, simple.
How will this help you with fat loss and your time at boot camp?
To get results here you only need to concentrate on doing a few things.
Eat clean, train, and rest and recover. Imagine writing these in this goal book.
It will be easy for you to keep track of your commitment.
Do it! And best of all let me know how it works for you.
You can get the goal books through Amazon. (No, I don't get paid for recommending these.)