April Challenge STAND UP AND BE RAWESOME


Here we go again. Another month, another brand new challenge. What are your thoughts on this one??? 

STAND UP AND BE RAWESOME





Fitness


It's all about legs this month as we tone them with various lunge, step ups, side lunges, DB split squat etc....for those that go to the gym you can use the gym equipment there and challenge your routine this month. Try to base it like our push ups routine and allow a day of rest every second day.

For everyone else, here are some other ideas;

Skinny Ms killer leg workout 

Rear lunges with or without dumb bells





Dumb bell home leg exercises 

Bulgarian split squat





For my male readers wanting more challenges give these workouts a go!






Muscular and Strength 3 week cycle workout

I'll be focusing on cycling over the next few months so I will be incorporating some bike interval training.

NB: all these hyperlinks have their own workout regime so simply choose which one suits you. 

As some of you are aware, I follow the Fit Yummy Mummy fat loss system. I will be incorporating my leg workout as part of my interval training. I only workout 15 minutes per day and find it's the best workout for me, especially being able to workout in the comfort of my own home.

For those interested in following me, you have an exclusive 50% discount offer via my blog link here. You get an ebook that is jam packed with various exercises, meal planning ideas and much! much! more! What's even better, it is only $19. It also includes a free 30 day trial at Clubfym as you get ongoing support there for a monthly membership fee. 
I have been following this program for the past 6 years and can't recommend it highly enough. Please let me know how you go.  

Combine this FYM workout plan with Sarah Wilson's I QUIT SUGAR cookbook and you are set to go! Superb recipes to keep you on track and curb those old sugary habits. (especially after the Easter Bunny made a special appearance this weekend) It has changed my life and that is why I would like to share what has worked for me.




Fit Yummy Mummy Dani Stevens Mother of 4



Food

You may recall my interview a few weeks ago with Kristina Carrillo-Bucaram co founder of Fully Raw and found it so intriguing that someone could just eat plant based foods, raw! No meat, no eggs, no milk. So while we have been doing our #pushupsgreens challenge this month and increasing our greens, it just made sense to continue this next challenge journey and try it myself and GO RAW FOR 30 DAYS!!!

You in? 

1st-30th April 2013

I just grabbed myself a copy of The Raw Food Diet Plan from the lovely Laura Jane from The Rawtarian so go check that out as it is jam packed with a starter kit, shopping list, meal planner, recipes and MUCH MUCH MORE!!!! Preparation is the key and this girl has it nailed everywhere!

There are a couple of reasons why I want to do this. Firstly, Oscar my second (5yo) son is dependant on OsmoLax which assists in the treatment of constipation. Kristina has been able to coach people through migraines, cardiovascular disease, obesity, constipation, diabetes, arthritis, depression and cancer. The list goes on. So really there are three reasons why I want to do this. 

Secondly, my mother suffers from chronic arthritis and travels to Serbia every European summer to get some heat into her bones. 

Then of course there is the dreaded C word!!! I have had many family members die from cancer, my father thankfully survived prostate but my poor Grandfather endured the most painful death in Serbia and died at home as his prostate cancer spread to his bones and lungs. 

I am encouraging my mother to do this with me and continue to do so when she goes to Serbia for 6 months this year. My mother is constantly living under the fear of cancer as she has ongoing tumours that need to be tested frequently. The burden of this worry is overwhelming and I truly hope we can make a difference with the food we eat. We can only try?


But it's Autumn? I don't want to eat cold food

I know, I know, some of you are based in the autumn month and it's going to get cold for us. Who wants to eat cold food, right? I was initially going to run this challenge in our summer around Oct/Nov but then that wouldn't be fair to my other readers? So for those of you enjoying the sunny Spring season, you have no excuse but to do this with me! Right? Regardless, I didn't want to make it easy for me (as I always like to take the short cuts) I just decided I wanted to do this now, regardless if it's going to be in the colder months. 

So I am going to do this. 

WE ARE GOING TO DO THIS! 

Am I fully raw prepared? No. Do I think I can do it. Yes. Maybe I'll fail but I hope to be at least 80% raw. All I know is that I will try my hardest. I am constantly researching and will share all the things I come across. Likewise those of you that are already on this raw journey, please assist us as we embark on this new lifestyle. Everyone is different, some of you will be hardcore like me, others want to try it as much as they can and for everyone else...I just really want you to at least try one dish that is raw daily.

30 days fully raw challenge

Level 1 100% we go exclusively raw 

Level 2 If you can't live without certain foods example: yogurt, eggs, fish etc...you can allow this and ensure the rest of your food is fully raw

Level 3 Have at least 1 serve of raw food daily eg: apple, raw almonds, salad 


Kristina is a fabulous resource and has everything covered at her Fully Raw website and will be our support coach over the next 30 days.

She believes to be FullyRaw is to live a lifestyle that includes eating a diet composed of 100% organic fruits & vegetables, nuts, and seeds in their natural and uncooked states.

To feel Raw is to feel 100% confident, happy, and pure in your skin. Many who are trying to live healthfully on a raw foods diet often struggle because they have no guidance, knowledge, or support. Many fall off the wagon of health a
nd wonder why they cannot stabilize their eating habits or find balance in food choices. Everyone comes from a different place in his or her life, and we all need hand holding and personalized attention to bring us to our next elevation.

To live as FullyRaw is to be dedicated to respecting and honoring your body as a temple where only 100% of the purest food enters within it.


Imagine the day where you find complete confidence in your body, your choices, and in your life. Envision health, clarity, health, freedom, and self-love. When we are invigorated and inspired, we are living Rawfully happy. When we are FullyRaw, we change the world.


If you have any questions check them HERE first. I know this will be a new way of living for most of us. I too will be learning each day and will rely on others to help me answer your questions, if I haven't already researched it. 


What does it mean to be fully raw?

Here are some sensational FAQ's on Fully Raw and our 80/10/10;


80% comes from Carbohydrates = FRUIT
10% comes from fat = NUTS AND SEEDS
10% comes from protein = GREENS AND VEGGIES AND FRUIT

2 lbs of leafy greens has more protein than steak!

Steak = 25 g of protein, 40% is absorbed b/c it's animal based
2 lbs of leafy greens, 60-70g of protein!!!! 99.9% absorbed into your bloodsteam = plant based!
2000 calorie diet, 80/10/10 = 1600 calories from fruit, 200 calories from fat, 200 calories from protein (greens)
16 bananas (100 calories per banana), 2 heads of greens, very small handful of nuts or seeds

So what can we expect to eat in a day?

Kristina says the number #1 reason people fail eating raw long term = THEY DO NOT CONSUME ENOUGH CALORIES. Check out what she eats in one day below....




Another great resource for us will be www.cronometer.com so go there and register for free and get some menu ideas and your daily calorie intake per fitness level etc..... I will also post what I am eating over the next 30 days.

Make sure you subscribe to Kristina's YouTube channel as she has some amazing dishes, so we won't miss our "once upon a time" non raw foods. Here's her Alfredo cauliflower cheese pasta! 





Facebook

I was hoping to set up a group under Fitness Food And Style Challenges so we can help one another over there as well. What suits you best? Having discussions on my blog, Facebook or both? 



This HUROM juicer baby will be my best friend over the next 30 days. If you need a new juicer or one like mine, you can go shopping and check some out HERE


Hurom juicer

So who's with me? Let's make this a RAWESOME month!!!

XxDani




Fashion Connections at the Fashion Lounge Little Flinders Lane, Melbourne

WOW!!!

That's all I can say!

What a great night I had last night. I had such a fabulous time at the Fashion Connect event which was held at the amazing Fashion Lounge on Little Flinders Lane, Melbourne.

Fashion Connect is the Social Media Marketplace for everything Fashion, Apparel and Entertainment. All thanks to the sensational OC Communications & Events group who delivered a very creative and entertaining night. Simply head over there to check out all the entertainment that was lined up for us. Thank you!


I was so happy to meet my all time fave Project Runway designer Matcho Subo. Australia's alumni and avant-garde designer extraordinaire!!! Matcho is such a beautiful person in real life (must be like all of us Slovaks! ha ha) and he is exactly like he was on the show with all his flamboyant and eclectic style. Super cool which is what I love about his designs!!!

Anyone wanting to follow Matcho please do so on Twitter @matcho_suba and check out his collections at www.matchosuba.com



Matcho Sudo with Dani from Fitness Food And Style

How can I not mention the the most accomplished couture designer in Australia. The one, the only (and winner of Project Runway) Craig Braybook. Super cool, down to earth and such a buzz to finally meet him in person, after a year of being Facebook friends (through a mutual friend Phil from Darley Management. Phil is the one responsible for most of my post baby after bikini shots). I had to do a double take when I thought DJ Kitty was my all time favourite style icon Gwen Stefani. She was the one responsible for me rocking the dance floor ;-) My wonderful friend Aleks AKA CoverMum who was the one who surprised me and got us tickets for my birthday. She just recently created her Facebook page so go check her out and like her page. She inspires me every day with her fashion style posts. Last but not least the marvellous Michael Villani Couture who made his own outfit (how awesome) and only creates one off designs, from finest fabrics and techniques!







Here are some more colourful people* I met. We were especially impressed with the entertainment by Pole Diva Lou Landers and we were all singing along with Diamond Dolly. However the fire cracker of the night for me was Zorza Goodman who is the mastermind behind all her creative millinery head piece designs. So please head to her Facebook page here and place your orders for the races, bridal or special events coming your way. Please make her feel the love and tell her Fitness Food And Style sent you.





NB: I met soooo many more of you which I did somehow misplace your cards, so feel free to leave your comments below so we can reconnect. Also please correct me any where I have made errors or add people I have missed that are pictured here with me xx



* * * A really, really special thanks goes out to * * * 

Studio Gas

The sensational Josie was responsible for my twiggy 60's leather and lace combo, complete with leather black patent boots, cream earrings and red patent satchel bag. I have known Josie since I moved to Ballarat nearly 6 years ago. We just lived around the corner. I always seem to find my style of shoes, top or jacket every time I go there.

Studio g.a.s is in the process of a revamp of their website and will be launching their updated store online very soon.

In the mean time please share the love and head over and like Studio g.a.s Facebook page (simply place, visiting from Fitness Food And Style) and check out their latest ladies clothing, accessories, footwear, gifts & homewares range at www.studiogas.com.au





Megan Bond Fashion Make Up Melbourne

I couldn't believe my luck when talented Megan Bond, well respected Fashion Make Up and Hair Stylist was in the same town as me. We both have mutual friends within the fashion industry and it's so great to connect with people that are an extension of your own personal and professional network group.

Megan was on the ball when creating my softer Twiggy 60's version look and completely nailed it. She used RMS which is organic makeup, a line of 100% natural and organic cream- based cosmetics designed by celebrity makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift. It's main base is coconut oil, so I was in heaven! You all know how much I love coconut!

To check out Megan's amazing portfolio and to make your private booking please contact Megan at www.meganbond.com 





Well my beautiful people, I bid you farewell. Sorry for such a promo post but when I find stuff I am excited about, I simply want to be able to share it with you all!!!!! I desperately need to catch up on my sleep and prepare for our next months challenge!!!! Who's ready to STAND UP AND BE RAWESOME???

Happy Easter to all those celebrating this weekend x x x Dani

HANG ON!!! I forgot to show you the goodie bag from last night! Unreal. Loads of useful stuff (you know how sometimes you get a gift bag with things you don't really end up using or just brochures and pamphlets?) Well the fashion industry know how to make their gift bags REAL useful!!! From false eye lashes to Lindt chocolate, Equip jewellery to Vittoria coffee. I can keep going but I REALLY have to go to bed. Goodnight x


Weight loss Transformation Tuesday interview with Alice Balcon


Another Tuesday and another sensational transformation!!! Thank you all for sending me your transformation pics via email and please keep them coming as I will feature YOU ALL!!!


Let me introduce the gorgeous Alice Balcon who has been a wonderful support #fitfam sister since I began my Instagram journey late last year. I was so humbled to receive this email from her;

"Dani, I just wanted to say that you have been a massive part of my transformation. You are such an inspiration to me. My Mum has 8 children and I know what it's like to live in a big family. My mum has never brought us takeaways and always cooked us home cooked meals just like you. Always took us outside in the nature. I love how you and your husband are such inspiring parents and guide your children. Thanks for all your challenges you have posted. Ever since the #xmas25squats you have got me hooked. Loving my #pushupandgreens challenge at the moment".


Transformation Tuesday Fitness Food And Style - Alice Balcon



How sensational is her 8 week transformation??????


Alice took time out to answer some questions and I would love you to follow her journey on Instagram as she is one truly amazing young woman!



How old are you and please can you share your health and fitness journey to date?

I am a 25yr old female that has just gone through a huge lifestyle change. Since the beginning of January 2013 I quit sugar and I went on to do an 8 week Challenge with Hiit Station (Maui Thai Training). I trained 6 days a week, followed a clean eating plan and did a Fat Burner walk every morning. On that challenge the challengers voted me for Miss Motivation, it was truly an honor and has helped keep me going after my challenge finished. I’m still keeping it up now.

What types of foods did you used to eat as a kid and young adult? What's changed since then? 

I am the eldest of 8 children, my mum has always promoted health and prepared home cooked healthy meals for us all. It was at the end of high school when I started going on fad diets – eg. Shake diets, not eating, just eating fruit etc. You name it I tried it. This slowed my metabolism right down, within one year I put on 15kg.

Do you play any sports or what sports do you like watching?

I don’t play sports but I do Maui Thai training. I am addicted. This is something I do for me. My time. This contains weights sessions, Maui Thai combinations, and strength and conditioning. I love walking as well hence why I start my day with a walk. I do enjoy watching sports on TV. Seeing these amazing Athletes we have in this world motivates me to become stronger person.

What are your interests, passion and what makes you smile?

I have many interests, one of them is my love for fashion. I work at a boutique called White Bohemian every 3rd Saturday. This has also inspired me to lose weight so I could feel good in clothes I’m selling. My passion is my job, I’m a nurse and I love helping people, it is a truly rewarding job. Seeing all my patients in hospital from unhealthy lifestyle choices has really been an eye opener for me. My boyfriend of 1 year makes me smile and he motivates me on a daily basis. He is an amazing person whom never fails to put that smile on my face. My family also makes me smile, I work out with them every day and this is our way of catching up.

What was the catalyst that sparked your lifestyle change?

I got to 75.4kg. I got lazy. I then got back into the gym because my partner was a fit healthy person. He inspired me to start back up at the gym and my family supported me. I slowly started losing weight. I lost 10kg. I got stuck at 65kg for 5months. My good friends started up a Maui Thai gym called HIIT STATION and talked me into their 8 week challenge. I lost cm very quickly and gained muscle. I had a 5kg drop and 38cm drop. I have been following Dani’s challenges on instagram. Doing the pushups & greens one at the moment.


What are some of your dreams/goals you hope to achieve over the next 12 months?

I believe you always have to have a dream or a goal in life. Mine is to become stronger and fitter. Push my body to its limits and see what can become of it. I have a “Motivation Board” in my bedroom. I look at it daily. It is filled with photos, quotes that inspire me and a table that I tick off with every day I eat clean.


What tips would you like to share with my readers about your transformation?

3 little words of NEVER GIVE UP. Seriously if you fall get back up. If you eat one bad meal, make your next one a healthy one. There is always sometime or some place you can exercise. I do my 25 squats in the shower every day. Set yourself a goal and work for it. Last of all enjoy your weight loss journey. Become creative with your clean eating and training.


Thanks again Alice for sharing your fitness journey with us. You are truly amazing and have shown us all what 8 weeks of eating healthy and regular exercise can do to our bodies!!! BRAVO girlfriend!!! For those that want to follow Alice, please head over to her Instagram page.

Are you enjoying these Transformation Tuesday posts? These are all people I personally know, have come across and/or follow on Facebook and Instagram and I LOVE to share their journeys with you!!! They are all truly so inspirational!!! If you too would like to share yours Read here on how you can feature on Fitness Food And Style.

♥ Dani 

Sydney was great but the Digital Parents harlem shake was a classic!!!

I am blown away!!!

WOW! That's all I can say. I have been to many conferences in my lifetime but this one takes the cake! So many amazing people from all walks of life in one room sharing one message. KINDNESS.

The opening speaker Jono Fisher was my highlight Wake Up Sydney which was all about celebrating kindness & courage within our community. We were given free kindness cards and a postcard to send to someone special (anonymously). It's the simple things like this that can make someones day. We tend to skip these kind gestures in our very hectic day to day lives, we just need to remind ourselves, strangers and those close to us that we can be kind in all that we do.

So many more details to fill you in on but I will do that over the next few posts. For now I wanted to let you know the eagle has landed safely.....

Avalon Airport flying Jet Star



Hey! I won for the very first time EVER!!! the major Microsoft prize at the conference. An HP envy tablet;



Picture source from Micrsoft Windows



Met some amazing people Klaus from 1st Available and Coralie from Mum Talks Austism. We have some amazing goals set in the near future and I am SOOOO excited and can't wait to share it with you all.


Friends forever 



How can I not mention my bestie Shari from Family Survival Coach


Super cool chick Shari



To end the conference with a BANG! we did this harlem shake performance.






Fitness

We are in our final week of our Push Ups Greens challenge, can you believe we're up to 4 weeks? WOWZA!! Here is Zali and I doing some kiss push ups.

Here is a snap shot of our program this week. What have you noticed over the 4 weeks with your pushups?


Push ups challenge Week 4



Okay, I'm outta here until we meet again.....BTW have you ever won anything?

XxDani

Weight loss Transformation Tuesday with Kristopher Smith

Now this is a transformation and a half. For my male readers, I do hope this gives you some inspiration. Lets all show some love and help congratulate the wonderful Kris for his amazing transformation!!!!


Weight loss champion Kristopher Smith weighed 300lbs (136kgs) and is now 227lbs (102kgs)



Kris is all the way from Cali, USA and is an aspiring actor. He has already lost over 70lbs AKA 30kgs and is continuing his healthy lifestyle by eating clean!

He took the time to answer some of my questions, so I could get to know him a bit better. I have been following him on Instagram for a few months now and he is such an inspirational young man. For more info please go and visit Kris on his Instagram HERE.

1. How old are you and what was was your outlook on health/fitness when you were growing up?

I'm 24. I was somewhat active growing up. I played baseball from 4th grade to 8th grade which is like age 9 to 12. My family is pretty big on sports I just outgrew it when I got to high school. We grew up eating pretty healthy. We only ate out like once a week. Just by the time I was in high school. I didn't make health or fitness a reality. I always wanted to lose weight growing up. Just wasn't motivated.


2. What types of foods did you used to eat as a kid and young adult? What's changed since then? 

All fast food. Taco Bell, McDonalds, Burger King and KFC. Lots of sugar. I love sweets. I used to sit at home when I wasn't at school or work and bake all the time. I eat clean now and watch my portion. I don't drink soda and stay away from fried foods. I try and make clean alternatives for my bad food days.


3. Do you play any sports or what sports do you like watching?

Baseball. It's the only smart I understand. Favorite team is SF GIANTS.

4. What are your interests, passion and what makes you smile?

I love drawing. Writing. Painting. Be creative and artsy. That's what I love about IG (Instagram) so much is creating cool pics. My passion is to be an actor. I'm going back to acting school in April again to start where I finished. I had taken a few classes there years ago when I was 19 but I got sidetracked with work but now I'm back into my focus of making my dreams come true. My family makes me smile. I appreciate and love them so much.

5. What made you change your lifestyle into a healthier version of you? 

The death of my brother. I didn't want to end up like him and not know what it meant to live a fulfilling life. I didn't want to live my life with any regrets and I knew being overweight I was going to be restricted to doing certain things.

6. What are some of your dreams/goals you hope to achieve over the next 12 months?

Get closer to being an actor. By the end of the year I want abs. Lol.

7. What would you like to share with my readers about your transformation?

I just want people to know that you don't have to wait for anything traumatic to happen for you to lose weight. Start today. Today is never too late. As much I have been called inspiring. I get even more inspired and motivated with people telling me that they workout or eat healthy because of me.

Thank you so much Kris for your amazing journey and I look forward to following your progress throughout the year, can't wait to feature your abs!!!



FITNESS 

For those that are interested in the fat loss program I follow please click on my FITNESS tab and there you will find my transformations after 4 babies. I have followed this system for over 5 years now and highly recommend it. I also have a special 50% discount if you click on my link. As I am limited with my time, this 15 minute workout per day works perfectly for me as I am able to do it in the comfort of our own home.

For only $19.95 you receive;

The Downloadable Fit Yummy Mummy Handbook for just $19.95 PLUS your FREE 30 Day ClubFYM Membership for new members. After 30 days your membership will be automatically processed (recurring) and you will continue to receive 2 new fat burning workout videos each month for just $19.95 per month every 30 days. You have complete access to your account, so you can log in or simply cancel by sending an email at any time so there is no risk. 


Your 30 Day complimentary ClubFYM Membership also gives you instant access to:
  • Free enrollment Transformation Challenges
  • Member only fat loss articles and video tips
  • Coaching calls
  • Insider secrets from other Fit Yummy Mummy success strategies
  • Interactive forums to get all your questions answered
  • Fat Burning Meal Plans and Recipes
  • Holly Rigsby as your Fit Yummy Mummy Coach - as she logs in daily to help where needed as she cares about your success!


Have you got a story you would like to share? Please send me your details and email me direclty;

dani@fitnessfoodandstyle.com.au

I would love to feature you for our Transformation Tuesday posts. Even if you would like to send in progress pictures, a pair of jeans that may be a tad tight but after a few weeks you have been able to button them up. PROGRESS, not perfection. That is what we are all here for.


Have a great week until we meet again.

♥ Dani 

The Burpee 500 - A fundraiser for Camp Quality

THE BURPEE 500 - A fundraiser for Camp Quality.

On the 13th of April we have a very special event that will commence at 7:00am. This event is the Burpee 500. The event requires participants to burpee and then do a long jump over and over again until they have completed a 500m (or 250m) course.

WHY ARE WE DOING THIS? Two reasons; firstly to raise funds for Camp Quality so they can continue there great work they do with children who are suffering from cancer. Secondly to show our support through walking the walk, by doing something that will make us suffer for a short time so we can appreciate what the kids go through.

Check out Camp Quality to see the great work they do:  http://www.campquality.org.au/public/home.aspx

HOW YOU CAN HELP:
  • It's easy to help, firstly you can register to complete the burpee 500. Registration is $30 with ALL of this money going to Camp Quality. Registration forms are now available at Hybrid Fitness Grafton
  • Secondly you can help by donating, if you don't wish to participate by going to www.mycampquality.org.au/hybridfitnessgrafton and clicking on the sponsor me link.
  • Thirdly you can sponsor an individual or the event by donating directly or donating gifts towards a raffle we are holding for the event. All donations over $2 is tax deductable.
Lets all get behind this, we have a target of raising $3000, to do this though we need people to act, please don't just consider helping, any size donation will help, and this IS A WORTHWHILE CAUSE, kids are our future, we need to try and help to give evry kid the chance to become an adult.

SO WHAT IS A BURPEE with A LONG JUMP: Check out the video below to see Irene "Monster" Shinn demonstrate. Sorry about the sound quality.

 
 
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING EVERYONE COME OUT AND BE APART OF THE BURPEE 500

Digital Parents Sydney conference ~ who's excited?

Hi there, just a quick post to let you know that I am all packed and ready to rock and roll for my week in Sydney this week. The actual Digital Parents conference is on Wednesday and Thursday however I will be there from Tuesday until Friday. It's the first time EVER I will be away from my family for this long and overnight!

So my Gala outfit is all sorted. Less is best so I have gone for a dark navy peplum style dress by Cue Designs. My electric blue suede shoes ~ accessories to match (tear drop earrings and a massive ring with a stone I could really knock someones block off!) followed by some neon orange finger and toe nails with a matching clutch.

What is peplum you ask? Peplum is a term describing an overskirt - typically a short, flared strip of fabric, that is usually attached to the waist of a fitted jacket, blouse or dress.

From the Paris runways to high-street fashion, the peplum trend has since seen a steady following.

I am hoping to rock the perfect peplum look these fine ladies are......


Picture source Fashion Mate



Phew! Travel wear for both Tuesday and Friday are all sorted as well.  I like to be comfortable when sitting on a plane and waiting around. For the actual conference Wed-Thurs I have packed some comfy rockstar Mama pieces ranging from coloured denim, singlets, sandals, denim jacket (it gets cold in aircon rooms) various bangles or arm candy as they are called now and just loads of enthusiasm!!!!

I can't wait to meet some new people and put names to faces. Even though some of you I have either already met or seen your pic on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. I'm very excited. Especially meeting my blogging pal and room mate Shari from Family Survial Coach and the beautiful Grace from With Some Grace and many many more!!!! Most of all can't wait to learn more about this new digital world. I love it! I love the fact that I'm connected with you all across the globe! It's absolutely amazing!

This is where the conference will be held. Pretty cool huh?

Curzon Hall 



When do you pack before your trip (last minute like I typically do!) and do you travel light or pack for weather changes and emergencies? I have managed to piece all my 4 looks (3 zip locked bags complete with accessories) so I am dressed in a flash! It must be a mother thing although I do remember when I used to go out clubbing, I'd be ready to go within half an hour when I got a call from a friend!

Okay, best I get an early night and see you back here for Transformation Tuesday!!!

Xx Dani

Getting to Know.............

The 2nd getting to know of 2013 is...........................................................................Kylie McGrath.

Kylie has been involved in the fitness industry for a long time and has had extraordinary results in this time. She has been a figure division competitor, she has ran marathons and she is also a tough mudder. Not only has she achieved the fore metioned she is a great support person, Kylie is far past the fundamental stage but she will still come and participate in the beginners fundamental class to support friends. This is pretty assume and shows the quality of person she is. Here is getting to know Kylie McGrath....



How did you discover Hybrid?  Through Irene Shinn. Anna Campbell, Irene and I run together every Friday afternoon & she always raved about how good it was. After 20 years at South Gym I was reluctant to change but turned up for a crossfit class to try as I was bored with classes at South. I never went back to South Gym again.

What were your thoughts after your first class at Hybrid?
I was hooked. I felt re-energised and excited about working out again, but I was also very, very stuffed.

Favourite Hybrid Class?
Teamfit, Guerilla Fit, TRX, Crossfit - Love em all. There is always an element of surprise at every class.
Favourite Hybrid exercise?
Wall Ball - Always feel it for days after.

Exercise your not so fond of?
Anything to do with the core; planks, stir the pot in TRX. I got split stomach muscles with pregnancy and struggle with core strength now.

What changes in your health, physique and performance have you observed since starting at Hybrid?
I have become much more stronger, both mentally and physically. I can do things now I never imagined I could do like climbing ropes & hand stand push-ups.

Tell us something no one knows about you or people would be surprised to know about you?
I have had a 10 year off & on battle with depression. Exercise and in particular long distance running has been my saving grace.
In 1999 I competed in ANBB Natural Bodybuilding - Figure Division. I took out Sydney overall figure champion in my first comp & took out 3rd place at the Australian titles a month later.

What is your favourite music to workout too?
Anything from Ministry of Sound

Which Hybrid member inspires you most and why? 
I have two, both for the same reason - Jen and Lee. They are both smiling all the time giving encouragement and always asking you how you are no matter how their day has been, sometimes that's all i need to brighten my day.
 
Proudest accomplishment thus far at Hybrid? 
Doing 5 assisted handstand push-ups with Jen's encouragement then heading home and doing 5 un-assisted handstand push-ups at home.


What are your goals for 2012?
To continue getting stronger both mentally and physically, to learn how to swim properly, learn to surf and get a diving ticket. I have a fear of drowning so I plan on fighting my fear this year head on.

One word to describe you?
Hopeful

One word to describe Hybrid?
Inspiring

Share some of your favourite motivational quotes:
" As we drive along this road called life ocassionally a gal eill find herself a little lost. And when that happens I guess she has to let go of the coulda, woulda, shoulda, buckle up and just keep going"  Carrie Bradshaw (Sex and the City)

Favourite Food?
Sushi, especially sashimi

Describe your sporting background or any sporting fitness accomplishments to date:
Competed in natural bodybuilding in 1999 - placing 3rd in Australia
Ran my first marathon in 2011 and then again in 2012 at the Gold Coast Marathon. I am having a year off this year but plan on doing it again next year and getting a sub 4hr time.

When looking back on 2013 your highlight major accomplishment for the year will be? 
Accomplishing my goals (see above) & building a home in Grafton and staying married in the process!.......... Oh Yeah - and be able to do 1 unassisted pull up!! They are so hard.

Thanks Kylie for your insights, your getting to know answers are sure to get people motivated for change or to accomplish greater things. Kylie is another prime example of being inspired by those in our own community.