Aurorae Resistance Bands Set Review Plus Giveaway

I have told you before that I practice yoga. I get several benefits; everything from flexibility to peace of mind. I read that if you add resistance bands to your routine, you would also get the added benefit of strengthening your muscles, which at my age is much needed for bone health.

I know you have heard me talk about Aurorae before, I have several of their products in my yoga bag and at home. I love the mats ad burn their candles for relaxation. It seemed a natural place for me to look for adding any yoga tools. I am super glad I looked there because they had just what I needed.


The Aurorae Resistance Bands Set is really something special. It comes with everything you need to add these bands in several different ways. I was so impressed by how complete the set was for the price. It really is a super bargain!

What you will get is: padded handles that are so comfy and durable, even the clips used to hold them to the bands seem very high quality and sturdy and a door anchor and an ankle strap so that you can use these to work all of your muscle groups. There is a guide book that has pictures and tells you which exercise is going to work what group as well. I liked that; it made it easy to plan what to do. There is even a cute zippered carrying case that holds all of the bits and parts and it is small enough to toss in your purse, well my purse anyways.

Of course it also comes with the bands, there are five of them that vary in resistance from 2-30 pounds depending on how you are using the bands. I started with the easiest and, of course, my show off husband started with the hardest, but we were both able to get a good workout with them. After looking closely at everything and using the set for several weeks, both me and my husband feel great about being able to recommend them as durable and reliable way to add strength training to your current routine.

Talk about adding a new level to already challenging poses!

You can purchase your own set on Amazon and be sure to check out all of the great products available on the Aurorae website, every single this I have used by them has exceeded my expectations. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Hurry on back though because it is giveaway time! One lucky reader will receive a Aurorae Resistance Bands Set just like the one I reviewed! Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Open to US residents, 18 years and older. Winner has 48 hours to reply before another is drawn. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers. My Empty Nest is not responsible for lost or misdirected mail.

Sworkit

So, my review is going to be a little different today. I have shared a little bit of my health journey with you guys and an important part of getting healthy is exercising and being active. I am not very imaginative when it comes to working out. I can't just conjure up a routine in my head and do it. That doesn't work for me. I like to be shown what to do, how long to do it for, and how to do it. In fitness, I am a follower more than I am a leader.

When I was offered the chance to try out Sworkit, I just couldn't refuse. It sounded like something that was right up my alley and that would help me stay motivated and reach my goals. I have never been one to work out or go to the gym so I don't know a bunch of different workouts. Luckily, Sworkit has a huge list of exercises and they include a video demonstration for each one. I have found this feature to be extremely valuable. 

You can create your own workout routine and only include the exercises that you want or you can choose from a bunch of premade, targeted routines. Everything from yoga to core to cardio routines are included and have premade routines to help you get moving. Also, on the home screen, there is a Fit in Five Minutes button that seems to be a randomized five minute workout if you want to try new things and see what you like. You can set goals for yourself and even keep track of how much you work out over different time periods. I also found that setting a reminder kept me coming back.

Within the routine you choose, you can customize the timing of each exercise, how long your rests are and how often they occur. I think this is great because not everyone, especially beginners, are physically fit enough to keep going without a rest period. During your routine, there is also a video demonstration playing and it has voice cues to let you know what your next exercise is.

I absolutely love this app and it has helped me tremendously. I love all of the features that are included and how expansive and customizable it is. Whether you have been working out for years, or are just getting started, I can see this being an invaluable resource. As with most apps, there is a "lite" version that you can try for free before you decide to purchase the full app and unlock all of the features. Sworkit and Sworkit Lite are available for Apple, Android, and Amazon and the full app is only $3.99! You can also learn more on the Sworkit website.


Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

Find Better Snack Options at The Good Bean

As many of you may know I have a lot of dietary restrictions, most of which are out of medical necessity and not negotiable. The last few hits took away everything that could be considered a portable snack. Seriously, there was nothing I could grab and go. Now I don’t mind home cooking all of my meals, in fact, I like knowing what is in my food. However, there are times you just need something, now, or something portable.

Thankfully I found a delicious option. The Good Bean!!! These tasty little beans are just that… roasted beans. As a huge fan of hummus, I knew I like chick peas but roasted crunchy chick peas had never crossed my radar. When I read the ingredients list I was so thrilled to see nothing there I couldn’t have. Needless to say, I may need to buy stock in this company, because I will be turning in a lot of orders!

These beans are roasted until they are crunchy little morsels, that are perfectly salted or seasoned. They hit that salty snack craving without giving you all of the junk you can’t or don’t want in your diet. This is really snacking you can feel good about. One serving has as much protein as almonds, as much fiber as two cups of broccoli and as much folate as three cups of spinach! Plus, nothing over-engineered and nothing artificial. They are gluten-free, nut-free, vegan, kosher, and non-GMO.

The roasted chickpeas come in a variety of flavors; sea salt, cracked pepper, smoky chili & lime, sweet cinnamon, mesquite BBQ, Thai coconut, and chocolate. Due to my very strict requirements, I was only able to try the sea salt and cracked pepper, both of which are simply awesome. I am so beyond excited that I now have a snack option!!

In addition to the roasted bean, The Good Bean also offers The Fruit & No-Nut Bar in apricot coconut, fruit & seeds trail mix, and chocolate berry. And they have bean chips!!  They come in sweet chili, jalapeno cheddar, sea salt, cheesy nacho, and BBQ bacon. With all that variety, restricted snacking need never be boring again.

Take a moment to browse and find your perfect guilt free, junk free snack at The Good Bean. Make sure to follow them on Facebook and Twitter so you never miss a new product!

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

Affirmats

With the New Year, comes new resolutions. I decided this year to set a simple goal: be more active. Instead of setting fitness or weight loss goals, I figured a blanket statement like that would be easy to keep with and maybe generate some desirable results as well. Since I have always enjoyed yoga, I set out for new yoga mats and found Affirmats. 

Affirmats offers yoga mats that have little affirmations written on them. The two I received say. "I am wonderfully made" (blue) and "I radiate love" (purple). These little sayings help you not only get through your yoga session, but also through the day. Everyone needs a pick-me-up every once in a while and you can get yours while doing your daily yoga! 

These mats are 25 x 69 inches and 5 millimeters thick. They are also free of phthalates, latex, and heavy metals. Made of a Jute/ECO-PVC blend they are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, non-toxic, and slip resistant. As well as all of these great things, Affirmats are also super comfortable and very stylish! My boyfriend and I are very happy with our Affirmats!

No matter what your New Year's resolution is, if you do yoga, or want to start, Affirmats offer awesome mats that help you be more positive. Be sure to visit the Affirmats website to see all of the great mats they offer. Also, be sure to follow them on Facebook and Twitter!

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

MeasuPro OX100 Pulse Oximeter

I spend a lot of time at the doctors which tends to make me a bit of health nut. In spite of my chronic illness that I can’t change, I am always looking for ways I can improve my health. In order to do that, I need data. I have all sorts of tools and every time I notice the doctors relying on something else, I want one.

If you have been to the doctor or hospital lately, you may have noticed them getting your pulse and oxygen measurements from a little device they clip on your finger. This is useful to know for several reasons and the main use I will have for it is to determine the success of my exercise attempts. Of course, first I needed to get one for myself!

I picked the MeasuPro OX100 Pulse Oximeter. It is so simple and easy to use. You just turn on the power, push open the device, and slip it over your finger. In just a few seconds, you have your reading. It is so small that you can toss it in your pocket. This is useful for me because I can take it with me on walks, when I really want to know my data.

The display is bright and easy to read and I really love that it uses regular AAA batteries. To save batteries, it features a five second auto shutoff function and the device will automatically power off due to inactivity. It will also display a low battery level indication.  In the box there is also a small, soft carrying case for protection of the device and a lanyard.

It was exactly what I wanted and worked as I hoped. I know I will get a lot of use out it as I improve my saturation and heart rate this year. To find out more and purchase your own head over to Amazon.

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

Ozeri 4x3motion Digital Pocket 3D Pedometer with Tri-Axis Technology

It's that time again where I talk about one of my absolute favorite brands for household products: Ozeri. If you have been here for any length of time, you know that I love Ozeri's products and jump at the chance to try a new one. This time I tested out their 4x3motion Digital Pocket 3D Pedometer with Tri-Axis Technology. 

This pedometer not only tracks your steps but also distance, speed, calories burned, and time. Recording up to one million steps with a 7 day memory, it also has a built in clock, calender, timer, and an auto sleep mode feature. The Tri-Axis technology ensures that no matter how the device is laying in your pocket, it will always be accurate and count each step. Also, the slim design makes it easy to carry without it getting in the way or weighing you down!

I have been using this to track my steps not only at work, but also on the track. This little guy helps me make sure that I get in the amount of steps and distance I want to achieve each day without me having to guess. I was so surprised to see just how many steps I take at work each day. I knew I was on my feet a lot, but not that much. I love being able to accurately keep track of my steps and easily watch my daily fitness goals come to life on the little screen!

As always, Ozeri did not let me down and I love the product! This is a great pedometer for anyone wanting to walk a certain amount each day or even just for someone who is curious to how much they walk. I am sure you will be surprised to see just how many steps you take in one day. To get your own 4x3motion Digital Pocket 3D Pedometer with Tri-Axis Technology, head on over to Amazon. While you are there, also check out the other great items that Ozeri offers! I know you won't be disappointed! 

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

Taffy Plus Sized Activewear

Finding good activewear that looks great while being functional can be a real challenge. That challenge is increased ten fold when you are plus sized. I know I personally have been intimidated by the process more than a time or two. It seems like even plus sized active wear is just to generic and tight fitting to be flattering. Thankfully Taffy Activewear gets that while we are all on the road to fitness we are not all there yet and need something flattering in the mean time. 

They have a variety of tanks and tops of which I was sent the Taffy Essential Short Sleeve. It is a classic fit top with flatlock seams. The material is very soft and breathable as well as being wicking, which means you will stay drier. I love the way it hangs and moves with me. I like that the back hangs lower so that you stay covered when you are bending and moving. I was sent a size too big but when layered with my favorite sports bra or layering top it works perfectly. 

I paired the top with the Taffy Essential Capri which is my favorite pair of capris. These are seriously comfortable and I often wear them on days I have no intention of working out. They are semi compression pants and have stylish mesh on the back waist area and on the thighs. They have a wide stay put waist band that doesn’t roll down on you when you are really moving. The fabric is soft and also wicking so you will stay dry and comfortable. 

To wrap up the look I wore the Taffy Essential Jacket. In the Fall and Spring this is my go to jacket. It is designed to give you a long lean line which as a curvy woman is always a nice bonus. It has two zippered hand warmer pockets as well as hidden inside pockets. The front zipper has a pretty pull and zips both ways.  My favorite part of this jacket is the 3 inch collar that I can zip all the way up if it is  a little chilly.  This jacket it truly a cute sporty jacket that is designed to and does flatter a full figure. I often find the bust area even in plus sizes can be bunched and tight but they gave extra give and it fit like it was for me.

If you are a plus sized woman, you know how hard it can be to find good, functional, and flattering active wear. I suggest browsing the Taffy website. I am sure you will find something you need or want for your next visit to the gym or even for your home gym. You can also connect with Taffy on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date one news and specials.  Do come back because I have a giveaway for you.

Taffy has kindly offered one reader the chance to win the Taffy Essential Short Sleeve that I reviewed. Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Open to US residents, 18 years and older. Winner has 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers. My Empty Nest is not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Campbell's Heart Healthy

Health is foremost on people’s minds, keeping your family in tip top shape can be a challenge in these busy times. Campbell’s Soup wants you to “Address Your Heart” with Heart Healthy Tips, recipes and more!

This year, in less than two weeks in fact, I will be celebrating my fortieth birthday. It really has me thinking about a lot of things and changing my priorities. One thing my husband and I have been doing is changing the way we eat to be more heart healthy and more healthy in general.

It can be hard to know where to start and I am so glad that companies I trust like the Campbell Soup Company has products that make it easier. In addition to having great products they also offer tools like wonderful recipes that are American Heart Association Certified Recipes. I have included several of these delicious recipes in this post for you. 

Have you and your family made any changes to your lifestyle to be more heart healthy? You can find great tools at AddressYourHeart.com, including the 21 Campbell’s recipes that are certified by the AHA which I mentioned. You can also find money saving coupons here.

Disclosure: The assets included within this message were delivered to promote Campbell Soup Company. I am working with Campbell Soup Company and Campbell Soup Company supplied these materials to me.

Curves Has A Clothing Line!

As a fitness conscious woman I am not unfamiliar with the name Curves. In fact, recently I have seen them a bit more often since they have partnered with one of my favorite fitness gurus, Jillian Michaels. I have always loved that there is a place that understands the unique formula it takes for women to meet their fitness goals. I really love that Curves has taken that great premise and continued to evolve their brand to meet modern and changing needs.

One new changes at Curves that I love is that they offer a line of apparel. If you have ever used generic workout clothes you probably know that, while making clothes that look cute on the rack or for daily wear can be easy, making them functional when you are full on working out isn't very easy. Often at the gym, they are all fail just when you need them to work. That is why I was so excited to get the chance to try the new Curves apparel line. 

Their line is designed to be slimming and flattering for all body types as well as functional for working out. The new line has twenty pieces with features like stay put waist bands, longer shirt backs, and wicking material. Plus, there will be new collections rolled out on an ongoing basis! Also, soon you will be able to shop the collection online as well as in person! I was lucky enough to get try three pieces, which made a perfect complete outfit.

One of the most important pieces in your workout wardrobe is a good supportive sports bra. I have the High Control Sports Bra from Curves in a gorgeous aqua shade.  It is lovely on it’s own or under my shirt. It gives full yet comfortable support without wires. The straps are wide, adjustable, and have a gel cushioning. Inside there are mesh panels to give ventilation and the fabric is wicking to help keep you dry. I love the light padding that smoothes and creates beautiful lines. This bra is available in  aqua and white from sizes small through extra large. 

The Energy Block Tee has such a slimming effect with the beautiful color block panels. It is a very soft tee that feels just like your favorite shirt but has the added benefit of being a wicking material. The hem in the back is dropped so that you stay covered when you are bending and moving during your workout. It is a cool and lightweight shirt that will keep you comfortable no matter how hard you are going at your routine. This really is so comfortable you will want to wear it when you are just relaxing! In addition to the lovely coastal blue, it is also available in raspberry and in sizes small to 4X. 

To complete the look is the Crossover Tummy Control Pant. These awesome pants use power mesh technology to help control my least favorite area: the tummy. The crossover panel does it in a way that still looks stylish too. They have a no slip waist band, which, as with the shirt, helps to make sure that you are staying covered no matter what you are doing. They are a boot cut leg which is always flattering and come in black with a gray panel. These are available in sizes extra small to 4X. 

There are so many beautiful, flattering and, best of all, functional styles in the new Curves apparel line. I invite you to visit your local Curves and see what is new. You can also fond out more details on the Curves website where this line will soon be available. Make sure you connect with Curves on Facebook and Twitter too so that you never miss a new announcement. 

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

New Year, Get Motivated With Yurbuds @BestBuy!

You hear a lot of tips on how to stick with your fitness goals, some work some don’t. For me the best advice I ever received was  to find some music that makes you feel pepped up. The style of music is obviously going to vary widely from person to person and that is okay as long as it gets you moving. 

With that in mind you all also know that I have set some pretty specific goals for fitness this year which include increasing my steps. The best way to monitor that is with an activity tracker. There are several to choose from, my favorite of which is the Fitbit, which you can find easily at Best Buy. While you are shopping at Best Buy keep in mind to keep that music in your ears you will need a pair of ear buds designed for working out.

I have tried many styles and found that working out nothing beats a pair of Yurbuds. I have never had to stop to readjust mine no matter how much I move around. I may have to worry about running out of energy or not reaching my step goals but I don’t even think about my music now. It is always there moving me forward toward my goals. 

Studies have shown that music can increase the intensity and duration of a workout by as much as 15%.  Unfortunately, most people miss out on those benefits because their earphones hurt and fall out during active use.  Yurbuds was founded in 2008 by an Ironman Triathlete and a 24-time marathoner in response to that problem. 

They are ergonomically designed for comfort and exceptional fit, while providing best-in-class audio quality and durability.  Yurbuds is passionate about serving customers and communities. They stay innovative by listening to athletes to produce solutions to their needs. With the goal to empower athletes through exceptional products and services to help them to push past their barriers, reach new personal bests, and #neverstop.

With Yurbuds you can cut the cords and unleash your inner athlete with the Inspire Limited Edition Wireless Sport Earphones. These Stereo-Bluetooth® earphones lock in place comfortably so they never hurt and never fall out. The 15mm drivers provide the biggest sound available, providing the motivation you need to #neverstop. 

They are sweat and water resistant earphones which feature full track & call control with a wind-blocking microphone designed for call clarity. The athlete tested battery lasts up to 6 hours and provides visual and audible indicators when running low. This is sound with no strings attached.

Key Features:

·         With yurbuds TwistLock™ Technology and FlexSoft Comfort Fit, these Stereo-Bluetooth® earphones lock in place comfortably and are guaranteed never to hurt or fall out.
·         Bigger Soundfor music and calls provided by 15mm drivers
·         Smart Batterypowers a week's worth of workouts and provides visual and audible indicators when running low.
·        Dedicated Pairing Button for simple 1-touch pairing.
 ·       Compatible with all Bluetooth® devices.
··       Earphones that never hurt and never fall out.
·        Yurbuds®, the #1 selling sport earphone company in the United States, is transforming the athlete experience with its new Inspire Limited Edition Wireless earphones to get you motivated through music. Launching at CES 2014 in Las Vegas this January, athletes and tech enthusiasts will be able to enjoy the first-ever Stereo-Bluetooth® wireless earphones guaranteed to never hurt and never fall out.
·         “We’ve cut the cords so fitness enthusiasts have less in the way of achieving the perfect workout,” said Daniel DeVille, Director of Marketing for yurbuds. “Designed based on user feedback, we are excited to deliver best-in-class wireless earphones that solve the needs not currently met by other wireless earphones and meet the rigorous standards of even the top professional athletes.”

Are you ready to reach new level and hit your fitness goals this year? Find Best Buy’s large selection of Yurbuds here Yurbuds on Bestbuy.com and Health & Fitness at Best Buy. To help you “Get Motivated” this year here are two Best Buy offers!

1) Enjoy  20% off all Yurbuds products at Best Buy valid in stores and online! You can redeem a coupon code for your yurbuds20off when purchasing online at BestBuycom,go here 20%OffYurbuds 

 2) Also enjoy a $5 Best Buy Gift Card when you purchase any Health and Fitness Wearable or SmartWatch product at a  Best Buy Mobile Specialty Store valid 1/19/14-2/22/14

Disclaimer:  The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

Walking My Way to Fitness With Therafit

We’ve talked a lot about goals since the new year started. I have pretty well defined fitness goals. I even have them broken down into smaller monthly goals. One of my most important goals is to get to ten thousands steps a day. I would like to increase by one thousand a month which leaves me two months to play with since my health isn't always cooperative with me. That is a lot of steps and the most important thing to me in helping achieve that goal is a good pair of walking shoes.

The first brand that came to mind was Therafit. I practically live in my Therafit Deborah sneakers and was really excited to see that Therafit offers a walking shoe, the Renee. You may remember that Therafit builds their shoes in a way that makes them not only super comfortable but they also help with my back by improving the way I stand. It really goes beyond just being a comfy shoe. This is the kind of shoe you want if you are going to be walking a lot or standing for extended periods.

There are really so many reasons to love these shoes! Like before I’ll start at the top. Unlike the Deborah, which is mesh, the Renee has a stylish leather upper. The attention to details and accents on the upper is really very nice. It isn’t just a plain leather walking shoe, it looks fabulous and has some grey and silver accenting as well as white. I love the reflective logo on the tongue. I’ve taken some close-up pictures so you can see just how nice it is.

It has a shock absorbing, EVA, removable insole which has heel and arch support. I was pleasantly surprised that this didn't bother my feet because I have pretty flat feet and tend to not like padding. I really love that you have the option to take it out if it does annoy your foot in any way. It has polyurethane gel insert comfort pads between the EVA insole and the next insole which is made from cosmo fabric.

Next is the EVA midsole and the shock absorbing wedge. This is the part that makes it adjustable. In this wedge there are three adapters  You can leave them all or take as many or all of them depending on your preferences. They are really easy to remove you just firmly press from the inside and the rod will easy pop out. To put them back in you just push them in from the outside. It really is that easy, I tried it in every arrangement and decided that I like it with them all, which came as a surprise to me since I typically prefer less support.

The outsole is rubber and has specially designed tread. On the front section of the shoe it had traverse tread to give you better push off and on the back of the shoes it has tread that reduces slide. These soles are fantastic for me because as you know I am clumsy and any extra grip is always welcomed. The shoe also has Aegis microbe shield which helps control odor, stains, and deterioration.

Now that you know why they feel so good take a peek on the Therafit site at how good they look! I love the color varieties and as you know I am typically pink girl so I was really tempted by the lovely pink and white Alexa. I know they are really that comfortable and I will want to wear them with everything since my walking goals are so big so I decided on the beautiful white Renee which would go with a wider variety of clothes. I may still need the pink pair, I mean really a girl can’t have too many shoes, especially when they are this comfy!

Cleo knows that my Therafit Renee shoes means it's walk time

Once you are done browsing come back here because one lucky My Empty Nest reader is going to win their choice of Therafit shoes! The giveaway is open to US residents 18 and older. Please use the rafflecopter below to enter. Winners have 48 hours to respond before another winner is drawn.

a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers. My Empty Nest is not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Fitlosophy Goal Weight Scale

Making New Years goals is very easy. I make good goals each year, often the same goals re-worded. Just because I never actually meet those goals doesn’t make them bad goals. However, it appears my approach may be off. This year I have similar goals to last year but I am focusing on them differently.

To help me take this new approach I have new tools. One of those new tools is my Goal Weight Body scale. What this scale allows me to do is take my focus off of what my current weight is, and refocus my attention to how I am progressing toward my end goal. The scale is a sleek red glass surfaced scale with a nice big, bright, backlight, digital display. It also works as a typical body scale if you like. You can simply step on and it will give you your weight.

What attracted me most to the scale is the goal weight functions. It will track up to ten people, and it’s so easy to set up. You pick a person number, zero to nine, and then tell it your goal weight. It will read in pounds, kilograms, and even stones. Plus it has a capacity up to 330 pounds which is fantastic.

Once you have your goal programmed in you simply hit the set button, scroll to the person, and step on. It will tell you how many pounds you have to go until you reach your goal. I have around 50 to get there. Seeing it like that makes me feel fantastic because I know less than a pound a week is more than reasonable and my goal is realistic.

I have a pretty bad memory, and the exact weight or pounds until my goal often escapes me unless I write it down. This scale always lets me know how I am doing in relation to the last time I weighed because the color of the backlighting changes. If you have gained the color will be red, yellow if you are progressing in the right direction, green means you are on your goal, if you see blue you are under your goal.

So far this year I have set my goal and checked in once to see that I have been making progress! The new focus has helped me not to get so obsessed - I use to check in everyday. I am very excited  to see what my next weigh in will show and I can’t wait to see a green background next holiday season.

Do you have fitness or weight loss goals you are trying to keep up with this year? In addition to this awesome innovative way to think about weighing in Fitlosophy has a number of other tools that will help you on your way to your goals and healthier you.  In addition to the website you can also connect with Fitlosophy on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date with their great products.

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

Organic Cotton Bootcut Pants From Gaiam

Yoga is more than a way to get exercise for me, while I do get exercise while doing yoga. I really love that it is also a way to clear my head. I just feel more relaxed for having done it and I notice when I haven’t done any yoga in a while. It really is a state of mind. It’s all about relaxing.

In fact all things yoga are relaxing, even the clothes. Some workout clothes can be tight and the exact opposite of relaxing but yoga clothes, they are extremely relaxing.  I have been known to throw on yoga pants even when I have no intention at all of doing yoga. Lets face it they are comfy.

I also happen to be typing to you today in the comfort of a new pair of yoga pants I just received from Gaiam. The Organic Cotton Bootcut Pant is what I am wearing to be exact. These pants are the kind of comfortable that you can live in. As an added bonus they are also cut in a way that is flattering - even on me!

The cut actually adds length to your legs, while the relaxed leg allows for a full range of movement. They are made from 94% organic cotton, 6% spandex right here in the USA. The quality is visible in the seams as well which have great stiching that will last with you no matter which way you choose  to stretch.

I love the ease of care too since these can be tossed in both the washer and dryer. I am all about no fuss when it comes to care  for my clothes because lets face it there are more important things to do with your time than hand wash delicates.

In addition to these great yoga pants Gaiam also has more wonderfully relaxing yoga attire, mats, blocks, straps, accessories, mat bags, and videos. And that is just in the yoga section! If yoga isn't your favorite they also offer home goods, clothes, items to help with wellness and overall fitness. They even have a special section for men.

You can purchase your own pair of Organic Cotton Bootcut Pants on Gaiam. And while you are shopping please take some time to browse the Gaiam site and see what fitness goodies they have that meet your needs. You can also connect with them on facebook.

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

DFX Sports - Fit Chair

I spend a lot of time sat at my desk, especially since I had both the surgeries and the hospital stay this year. To say I have become weak would be a bit of an understatement. It’s also fair to say that I gained some weight this year. I’m not sure why but as the year approaches an end we all start to think about stuff like that and our goals for next year.

I’ve made my personal fitness goals and to help make sure I meet them I have started to make some changes. The first thing I changed was my desk chair, since it seems to be the biggest aid in my lethargy. I would venture to guess I spend more than 8 hours a day in my chair. So I’ve upgraded it for a Fit Chair from DFX and now I am actively sitting rather than idly sitting. That’s 8 hours of balancing on a ball now and I noticed the difference instantly.

Seriously from the first day I knew I had made the right decision. I recall that worked your muscles feeling from back when I lifted my first free weights and after just one day in my Fit Chair I had that feeling in my thights and calves. After a few more days I started to get that feeling in my core as well. And while it may seem silly to enjoy aches I was never happier than when I noticed the new aches because it let me know something good was happening.

The chair was really easy to start using too. It came in a few pieces that were all self explanatory - the ball, the base and the wheels. The ball part was deflated but it came with a hand pump, and it took just a few minutes for Andrew to pump it up. I could have done it myself, I know because I added some air later and it was  really easy, but he was as excited as I was and wanted to be the first to feel how it was to sit on.  The wheels needed installed with a firm push, which I also let Andrew do, and then it was ready to use, that easy.

My husband who is in super shape, works physically hard every day at work, and already has toned muscles sat in it first and told me it was pretty easy to balance on for him, but after a long enough time he did notice that he was balancing on it. He then took my office chair and put it upstairs. Due to my knees and hips upstairs is pretty much like traveling to the moon for me so the Fit Ball is now my regular desk chair.

For me I instantly knew I was balancing on something. I am not graceful, balanced or muscular, which may be why I noticed it faster and why my results were more dramatic. After the first week passed I noticed that my balance in general was  getting better which is fantastic! I even noticed I was able to hold posses easier and longer during yoga. I also noticed some extra strength around my core which seemed to me to be a bit smaller and tighter.

In addition to a chair replacement you can also use the Fit Chair while working out to intensify your routine and give your core a super workout. If you thought planks were hard before you should try them using the Fit Chair, wow, they become pretty intense, even for Andrew! Any seated legwork is also taken to a new level do it from the Fit Chair. Leg work becomes leg and core work.

If you want an extra super intense workout for your core DFX Sports also has a Dynamax Core Trainer which can be used in conjunction with the fit chair for the toughest core workout imaginable. I’m not ready for that yet but I hope to be soon.

I absolutely couldn’t be happier with my initial results and I have high hopes for the continued improvement as more time passes. I will update  you again in a month or so, maybe by then I’ll be as centered and strong as my husband - it could happen.

What are your New Year fitness goals? DFX Sports and Fitness have a lot of great products that can help you meet your goals. Take a look around and order yours today so they will be there in time for the New Year. I noticed they have a lot of tools for hand strength, that’s next on my list! What about you?

Make sure you also connect with DFX on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date with new products and special offers.

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.

Girl4Sport Fashionable Active Wear

Staying active is important to looking and feeling your best. I think looking your best while you are staying active is also important. I know I feel extra energized and motivated when I look fabulous. Which is why I really love the new trend of pretty, cool, stylish athletic apparel for ladies and girls.

Girls4Sport understands the need to be active and look great and they offer a wonderful line designed for active ladies and girls. The ladies bottoms they offer range from bikini style to long Capri pants and they even have skirts and unitards. In the tops you can find a range from long sleeves to short sleeve  and even sports bras.

As well as a range of styles there is also a range in colors from naturals to vibrant shades and patterns.  In the girls section they also have  a range in styles and offer neutrals and a lot of vibrant pinks and patterns. There really is a nice selection of sporty and fashionable athletic wear.

I picked the Long Sleeve Full Zip Top for myself. This top has a lot of things that I love. One thing that is very important to me when outside is to be careful of sun exposure. I have medical conditions and medications that really make it vital that I limit my exposure so I really love that this top offers SPF 50+ protection and blocks at least 98% of UVA/UVB rays. Plus if you decide to wear it in the water it is very quick drying.

It also has rash guard which can be so useful when you are getting active and sweaty.  I really love that it has a full zipper, that makes it perfect for both active wear , water wear, and even as a light over jacket for Fall and Spring. The stitching is sturdy and decorative and it has a nice flattering fitted shape. I feel good knowing that it was made in the USA, as I try to buy USA whenever possible.

Are you and/or your little girl active and fabulous? If you need some athletic wear designed with girls in mind you should browse the Girl4Sport site. I am sure you will find something awesome and beautiful. You can also connect with Girl4Sport on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on new products and offers.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.