Nicole Richie and the Tracy Anderson Method

Tracy Anderson Celebrity Fan: Nicole Richie

Tracy Anderson 30 Day Method Book with DVD If you have visited this blog before you probably know that I’m a big fan of the Tracy Anderson Method. It seems like more and more people are finding, responding to and changing their bodies with the TA method. Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow have been wowing with their lean, toned bodies hard earned through the Tracy Anderson Method. Molly Sims is a fan, Courtney Cox, Kristin Davis, Zooey Deschanel, the list goes on and on and seems to keep growing. One newish fan who always has all eyes on her is author, designer and fashion plate – Nicole Richie.

Here is a link to a list of all of the posts and reviews of the various Tracy Anderson webisodes, DVD reviews and Tracy tips and diet methods:
Tracy Links

I thought this little video of the style maven and mother with Tracy Anderson was cute. Granted – it starts out pretty cheesy as some shots of Tracy posing (which it seems hard to escape from in the videos and on the site).  However, the interaction is fun – you get to see some moves that Tracy has created for Nicole’s workout routine that you could incorporate into your own Tracy Anderson method workout by simply doing 40 reps of the moves targeted to your problem areas on each side during your workout routine.

Tracy, Nicole Richie and two of Tracy’s trainers also do a short cardio dance routine which could be either inspiring, educational or overwhelming depending on how you look at it and what level you are at with the dance cardio.

Nicole Richie says that what she loves about Tracy’s method is that she can actually eat whatever she wants on the Method.  She works out for two hours a day and pointed out that normally she had trouble going to the gym both because it was so boring and also because the normal weight training type exercises weren’t good for her body type. I’ve also found that normal weight training can lead to bulking up rather than the long lean muscles that the TA method promises.

Here is the video so you can watch for yourself. What do you think of it?

Whether you try the Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis program or the 30-Day Method or your own combination of the cardio DVDs and the different webisodes, post-pregnancy workout and mat workout – they key to the method is to be diligent about exercising 6-7 days a week. Tracy Anderson stresses the importance of the dance cardio portion. If you are only able to fit in an hour of working out one day – she says – do the cardio. The strength training is very important but the cardio getting you into that calorie burning mode is what is really going to change the body initially. Once you see yourself losing pounds, you will crave the fine tuning that the muscular structure work can do and that extra 45-60 minutes a day will be so worth it to show off those uncovered long and lean muscles.

With the 30 Day method or one of the other Tracy Anderson quick start plans that you can find in the archives of my blog like the 6 week diet and exercise plan – you will get diet guidance in addition to the exercise and muscular structure work which will improve and intensify your weight loss results dramatically compared to just working out alone.

Once you reach your goal weight, you can eat what you want and just continue the daily cardio and muscular structure work to keep your body looking amazing. It takes effort and you need to keep at it to maintain your beautiful body. Nicole Richie says she finds the dance cardio fresh and fun and it doesn’t get boring if you change it up. If Nicole Richie with her kids, and her fashion empire can do it - it makes me think I can probably find the time in my schedule for the Tracy Anderson method too.

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Fastest Way to Lose Belly Fat, Love Handles, and Stomach Flab

Many of the questions we get are about losing abdominal fat. People are always looking for the fastest way to lose belly fat and "love handles" and stomach flab and tummy rolls... etc, etc. While it has many different names, abdominal adipose tissue is a nemesis known by millions of people all around the world. Getting rid of it can be a difficult task but the tips below, when used in combination, will allow you to get the fastest fat loss results possible...

1. Eat a Low-Carb Diet

No diet will give you faster results, in terms of reducing belly fat, than a low-carb diet. There are many reasons for this but the main reason is that low-carb diets dramatically lower insulin levels in the bloodstream. They also improve your body's overall hormone balance in a way that causes it to shed stored abdominal fat very quickly. Once you've lost the tummy flab though you should cycle off of the diet and start eating healthy carbs again. A good carb-rotation diet is a great way to continue losing weight and to avoid gaining back belly fat.

2. Do Strength Training-Based HIIT Workouts

Cardio-only exercise regimens aren't the best for burning belly fat. In order to lose your ugly, stubborn stomach fat in the fastest way possible you should focus on doing high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts that combine strength training and short bouts of cardio. Focus on simple compound strength movements that work lots of muscles at once, like push-ups, dips, pull-ups, squats, lunges, inverted rows, etc. Finish with about 10-20 minutes of HIIT style cardio. This type of exercise not only burns lots of calories and fat during, but also for hours after the workout!

That's basically it: the fastest way to lose your belly fat, love handles, stomach flab, "beer belly", and whatever else you want to name that ugly layer of fat surrounding your abdomen. Just follow a simple low-carb diet for a few weeks and combine it with about 4 intense workouts per week. Focus on fat-burning, muscle-building strength training and ultra-efficient HIIT cardio. Make sure you get enough sleep, rest, and water and you'll be on your way to a leaner, fitter, sexier body fast!

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The Rack Workout Review

The Rack is a home exercise device that's been getting a lot of attention lately. So I figured I'd write up a quick review and also ask our readers for their own helpful reviews! The Rack workout device is marketed as an "all-in-one" workout station and it's designed for bodyweight-based high-intensity circuit training. It's light but strong, relatively compact, and currently costs about $160, although the company also offers a 30-day trial for $14.99.

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UPDATE: The Rack has become hard to find/buy. The good news is that we've discovered 2 similar products that are both MUCH better overall, both in terms of functionality and value. The first is the TRX Suspension Training Pro Pack, a great portable "suspension" training system. Click here to learn more. The second is the Ultimate Body Press, which is very similar to The Rack but, overall, is much more versatile. Click here to learn more. Both of these popular products allow you to perform all of the same exercises that The Rack does as well as many more that can't be done on The Rack!

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This unique product looks a little strange but it's definitely intriguing, especially since it's designed to enable the user to do some of the most effective bodyweight exercises (like dips and plyometric push-ups) without a bunch of heavy and/or expensive equipment. I love dips and have spent many hours over the years trying to figure out different ways to do them at home without a true "dip station". I have found very few good options but with this product we may have a new one to add to the list.

The Rack workout device definitely appears to be targeted towards men. It's a chest and triceps machine more than anything so it's a great option to work those "t-shirt" muscles at home. That being said, there's no reason a woman with some decent upper-body strength couldn't use the thing.

The Rack only weighs 30 lbs, which is good and bad. It's great in terms of being very portable and easily storable. The light weight and attached wheels also allows it to move easily on the floor, turning it into an effective abdominal exercise machine. But being so nimble isn't such a good thing when it comes to the non-chest-building movements they show in the infomercial. 30 lbs of resistance isn't very much when it comes to doing lifts like squats, lunges, shrugs, rows, bicep curls, etc. A typical person will quickly outgrow that small amount of resistance, strength-wise. You can buy special weight plates to attach to it but personally I think your money would be better spent by investing in some simple dumbbells or even a set of kettlebells.

The biggest problem I see with The Rack workout device is that it really doesn't offer much in terms of back exercise options. You can do a type of inverted row with it but with a very limited range of motion, which isn't good. But, paired with a pull-up bar, you'd be able to do nearly all the most-effective upper-body exercises out there: mainly dips, depth push-ups, pull-ups, and all of their many variations.

The Bottom Line: If you're looking for a versatile, light, and highly portable home workout option you may want to give The Rack a try. Just realize that it does have some limitations. Consider matching it with a simple pull-up bar and possibly even some adjustable dumbbells to give yourself everything you need to do the best exercises in the comfort of your home!

Here's a quick review submitted by a reader:

I ordered my "Rack" machine in early February and just recently got it after several weeks of waiting. I don't know if it was a supply problem or a delivery issue but I'm glad I waited. The first thing I did was watch the workout DVDs that came with it. Then I assembled it, did a quick warmup on my treadmill, and got to work. What I noticed right off that bat is that the product is surprisingly strong and sturdy yet very lightweight. I was a little nervous at first but it had no problem holding my weight (currently an overweight 230 lbs) as I performed dips (3 sets of 6 reps).

So far I've done all the DVD workouts and I can honestly say that I'm happy with my purchase. I like the circuit training style because it actually makes it fun to exercise at home. The Rack allows you to do lots of unique movements that you wouldn't really be able to do at home without it, or something very similar. The DVD's are great, with good instruction, music, production, and energy. They remind me a lot of the P90X and Insanity DVD's. They are definitely challenging but they are very do-able and enjoyable even for a flabby out-of-shape guy like me!

One thing I will say is that the Rack isn't made for back and biceps workouts. Don't get me wrong, you can do curls with it but it's so light that you have to do a lot of reps and sets to really feel anything. It's great for chest, pecs, triceps, and abs. If you want to really build back, biceps, and leg muscles you're gonna have to get more equipment.

Overall I'm very happy with the Rack workout system. Compared to other options like a regular dip station it's cheaper, lighter, and much more portable. It can even be folded completely flat and stored under a bed. It also gives you some nice variety and will make any home workout more challenging and more fun. I recommend it to people looking for a way to really increase the intensity and effectiveness of their at-home exercise!

- Jason T, Bellevue, WA

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Have you used TheRack Workout station yourself? Want to share your own reviews, questions, or comments? Please leave your feedback below. Thanks!

Click here for Rack Workout reviews on Amazon

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Ab Rocket Twister Reviews?

Apparently the Ab Rocket Twister is one of the hot new fitness products on the market. We've already gotten a dozen requests for reviews of this new "infomercial" abdominal exercise machine. After spending about an hour searching for real customer reviews online it's easy to see why: there appears to be very little authentic user feedback regarding the Ab Rocket Twister! So let's see if we can change that situation...

Here's one message that we received last week:

"Hi. I'm thinking about buying the new Ab Rocket Twister and would like to know if you think it really works? Is it really as effective as they claim on the commercial? Have you used it yet? I'm kind of desperate to burn off the roll of belly fat I've added this winter, especially since I'm going on vacation (Miami Beach) in May! I had six pack abs just a couple of years ago and I really want them back. Please help me decide whether or not I should purchase the Ab Rocket with a review or suggestion. If you think it's a rip-off please let me know so I don't waste my money. Thank you so much for your help!"

- Monica R.

Well, first things first: no ab exercise machine is going to burn off all your stomach fat and/or give you six pack abs by itself. All infomercial fitness and weight loss products claim to provide "easy" weight loss results but we have yet to find one that actually does so. Remember that weight loss, and especially fast weight loss, is about 75% diet. If you're not eating a proper, clean diet you're not gonna lose fat and shed pounds... no matter how many "Ab Rocket Twists" you do. Even the commercial states that you must use the included diet plan in order to lose the pounds and inches promised in the marketing hype!

That being said, a machine or device that helps you do more effective exercises, abdominal or other, can certainly be useful. I used the original Ab Rocket on several occasions and was actually very surprised that I liked it. Let's face it: sit-ups, crunches, and just about all other unassisted ab exercises are difficult, especially if you're very out-of-shape, overweight, or have any back problems. The original Ab Rocket provides a type of assistance that reduces much of the discomfort associated with typical abdominal/core exercise movements. It appears the new Ab Rocket Twister works on the same principle but adds a twisting motion capability to work the oblique muscles.

In the end I never did buy my own Ab Rocket because I tend to avoid things that make exercise easier. I know from many years of experience that harder, more difficult exercises provide much better overall fat burning, muscle building results.

The spring assistance provided by the Ab Rocket and new Ab Rocket Twister reduces the effectiveness of each individual repetition because it basically lowers resistance levels. Of course, it will probably allow you to do more crunches and sit-ups than you would normally do. That's a good thing in most cases and for some people, especially those who are currently very out-of-shape, the Ab Rocket Twister may be a decent investment. More "comfortable" home exercise options can make it more likely that you'll workout more frequently and get into shape faster.

The problem with many infomercial products is that they simply aren't made very well. Any comfort advantage they provide is overshadowed by the discomfort that comes from using a cheaply-made machine for long periods of time. The original Ab Circle Pro is a good example of that.

Personally I would hold off on buying the Ab Rocket Twister until more information is available online. Please leave your own reviews, testimonials, questions, and comments regarding this soon-to-be-very-popular new exercise machine below... thanks!

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Radiation Threat: Iodine Protection Kit

Iodine Protection Packs
Are you concerned about Radiation and looking for Iodine protection packs?


Buy Iodine Protection Pack

After a horrible tragedy like the recent earthquake, tsunami and nuclear catastrophes in Japan, I am reminded of how quickly we can be thrown into an unexpected situation. And although we can't be prepared for everything, it is good to prepare ourselves in the ways that we can. With threats of radiation poisoning coming to US soil - Potassium iodide is a phrase on everyone's lips.

Selling out everywhere, potassium iodide is supposed to help your thyroid keep the radioactive iodine out of this important regulating part of your body. In addition to potassium iodine, I have been seeking out additional alternatives to support the body in case of radiation threats in the United States, particularly on the west coast.

As a big fan of micro plant powder, an amazing detoxification and anti-aging powder, I wondered if Micro Plant Powder would assist in the detoxification for radiation as well. Check this out for more information about radiation protection with Micro Plant Powder, Kelp, Iodine and the kits that combine the products.

Iodine Protection Pack

I've read that Kelp is an important supplement to help in supporting your thyroid in the case of radiation. Kelp, Potassium Iodide and Micro Plant powder could all be used together to help in the prevention of radiation sickness. I am not a health care professional and am in no way giving medical advice. These are simply items I am buying for my own family to make us feel better in case of worst case scenarios with radioactive material coming to the United States.

Here are a few options for radiation protection and support kits:

Iodine Protection Pack 1

Buy Iodine Protection Pack 1

Iodine Protection Pack 2

Buy Iodine Protection Pack 2




Buy Iodine Protection Pack



If you are looking for more information about Micro Plant Powder, or the Iodine Protection Packs to have on hand in case of radiation threat, please click here.

We are so sad for and send our heartfelt wishes and prayers to the people of Japan during this horrible tragedy.
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Fitness and Exercise Benefits - Life will be Extended

Physical fitness and exercise can extend your life, and perhaps fitness that is even more beneficial and exercise can ensure that a person’s years of life are more productive, more pleasant, and more enjoyable, and who would not want their years of life to be enjoyable? Fitness and exercise seem like a small price to pay for such great rewards.

Step 1: The first step in a fitness and exercise program is in deciding what type of exercise you enjoy. Fitness and exercise needs to become a lifestyle and that are more likely to happen if you engage in activities you consider fun. Do you enjoy swimming, hiking, walking, running, racquetball, tennis, golf, or any other sports? Are you the type of person who enjoys lifting weights, or using the Stair master machine at the local gym? Everyone has different tastes when it comes to fitness and exercise. Deciding on the activity that is right for you is the first step.

Step 2: Make sure that you don’t overdue it. Many people rush into a fitness and exercise program and over due it the first day, leading to sore muscles and aching backs. When that happens, they are much less likely to continue their fitness and exercise program. Moderation is important in a fitness and exercise program. Also, if you are extremely out of shape when you begin your activity, you need to start out at a slower place than you would if you were moderately in shape. If possible, get advice from your doctor or another health care professional or physical fitness instructor before beginning your fitness and exercise program, and find out what is right for you.

For many people ten minutes of brisk walking every other day is enough to get started. This can gradually be advanced to fifteen minutes, and then twenty. The important thing with fitness and exercise is to stay with it. The more you do, over time, the more "in shape” you will become and the more you’ll be able to do. Right now six months seems like a long time, but if you begin a fitness and exercise program now, six months will come and go quickly and you’ll see a noticeable difference in your fitness level, your stamina and the way you feel.

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Fitness and Exercise Three Sweat Tips

If you wonder, what the benefits are to a regular exercise and fitness routine then think a total body fitness that includes mental too. Exercising is what most people dread to do. It seems a chore, or at the least an aggravation. However, read about some of the real benefits of doing the chore of having an exercise fitness program that you can follow to enjoy a healthier, happier and a more productive life. In the long run you won’t regret following a healthy exercise fitness routine.

The following three list is only a few of the health benefits that you will gain by using an exercise program for your fitness needs. Remember though if you’ve got special health needs or concerns talk with your doctor before starting any exercise schedule. Fitness is the goal, not complicating or making worse any preexisting conditions.

1. Heart Performance. The heart is a muscle and if it isn’t properly maintained through exercise, it’ll become sluggish and useless. The heart pumps needed oxygenated blood cells for the circulatory system. This aids the liver, spleen, and kidneys to easily clean the blood and prevent infection. Exercise for the heart will keep its arteries and veins clean, and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.

2. Muscle Tone. Suppleness of the major and minor muscles is improved when an exercise fitness plan is used daily. By strengthening the legs and stomach, the back receives support to do the heavy lifting, bending and turning. Greater flexibility is gained too in all three areas. A good exercise program of fitness only gets getting muscle tone.

3. Mental Stimulation. The brain is mentally stimulated when exercising. Because the body is made up of chemical components, exercise invigorates the brain by making it produce more. There are feel good endorphins that give you a natural emotional state of happiness and well-being. Mental depression is helped when with combined with medication. In fact at times a fitness exercise routine is all that is needed to combat depression.

As you can read these three reasons to sweat it is enough reason begin and follow a fitness exercise program. Other benefits are numerous too such as joint flexibility, and improvement for any eye conditions that you have. Consider too that you can ward off by slowing down the affects of any future problems that may develop with your eyes. You never know when diabetes can hit, and because the eyes contain tiny blood vessels, diseases like diabetes affect your eyesight.

By Michael Paladin

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