"But I Don't Want To Look Like A Man!"

By Jaci Ballou

Many women avoid weight training for different reasons. Some are just not sure what to do, so they just don't do it at all. Some are worried that they're just not strong enough to use weights. But most are afraid that by lifting weights, they'll look like a man. Did you know this is not really possible? Men are able to build muscle at an incredible rate because of the levels of testosterone in their bodies. Women are NOT created with these levels! The only way to "look like a man" would be to use some type of steroid or similar supplementation. Women were not created to build muscle like that! There are so many great benefits to weight training...keep reading!

Did you know that weight training can actually help prevent osteoporosis? Research has shown that 24 weeks of weightlifting may increase bone mineral density by as much as 15 PERCENT!

Did you know that weight training burns calories longer AFTER a workout that a cardio session? After weight training, muscles actually have to recover to get ready for the next workout. This recovery causes a continued calorie burn. The body burns more calories to keep the muscles there. So, if you're in a pinch and have to choose between cardio or weight training, opt for the weights! It is possible to use weight training to act as cardio, as you train with your heart rate in the fat burning zone, and the after effects make your workout so much more worthwhile!

Did you know that weight training can help prevent injury and improve balance? Strong core muscles improve coordination and improve balance. And, weight training has also been proven to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. High blood pressure and cholesterol contribute to heart disease, one of the largest killers of women in America every year.

So, don't be afraid of looking like a man. It just simply won't happen! Instead, help create a healthy, happy, strong, coordinated you!

Jaci is an Independent Team Beachbody Coach. Check out her Facebook fan page for more tips. 

Small group fitness fun

A "Cell Group" walking on the Seminole Trail

The Truth About Whole Grains

Had your fill of high-fiber factoids? Think you've heard the whole story about whole grains? See how much you really know by answering the following questions:

1. Dietary fiber is:
a- Another word for starchy food
b- The part of the plants that the human body can't digest
c- A type of carbohydrate

2. To truly be considered "whole" grains such as wheat, rice, oats and corn should be referred to in the list of ingredients as:
a-Partially hydrogenated
b- Saturated
c- Whole
d- Bleached

3. Which has the highest fiber content?
a- A medium apple with skin
b- A half cup of applesauce
c- 3/4 of a cup of apple juice

Answers:
1. b
2. c
3. a

Quinoa: April's Super Food of the Month

Quinoa (KEEN-WAH) is not a new trendy grain, it's been used for centuries by the Incas and grown in the Andes Mountains. The United National World Health Organization observes that Quinoa is closer to the ideal protein balance than any other grain, as its protein content is very high (12%–18%). Unlike wheat or rice which are both low in lysine (an essential amino acid that is the building block of protein) quinoa contains a balanced set of amino acids for humans, making it an unusually complete protein source among plant foods. It is a good source of fiber and phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron. Quinoa is gluten-free and considered easy to digest.

More importantly to you, it's tasty! Quinoa is a little nutty, with a nice al dente feel in the mouth. An added bonus is how easy it is to prepare. Use it as a healthy substitute for white rice or go to our recipe page to find a nice Quinoa pilaf to go along with dinner tonight.

Why your church should participate in 50 Days of Fitness!

CNN released an article today about how obesity plagues middle-aged churchgoers. 50 Days of Fitness can aid in forming good habits within your church or organization.

Raising Active Kids

It's Spring Break time for many school aged kids around the country. What is a parent to do with kids who would rather sit indoors on their technological devices rather than get out and play? Involving the whole family in outdoor play can encourage more active kids. Here are 3 ways to get kids off the electronics and playing in the fresh spring air.

March is National Nutrition Month

Are you eating by color? Learn more during National Nutrition Month in March.