What Do You Fear?

Wouldn't you agree that we all have at least one fear in life?  Some that we have already dealt with, some we will never deal with, and some that we continue to deal with.  A fear is a normal and healthy part of life.  It is easy to become afraid of almost anything.

About a month ago, I was invited to go to the Santa Monica Pier to take a flying Trapeze class with other Lululemon Ambassadors.  When I read the evite, I responded yes right away without even thinking twice about it.  It sounded fun and exciting so why not?!  As it got closer to the Trapeze class, I suddenly got fearful.  I remember trying to think of every way possible to get myself out of going, “Am I crazy?  I hate heights.  There is no way I can do this.  I can’t I can’t…I just can’t.  Wait, don’t I have to wash my hair or something?”  I thought of every negative thing to say or any excuse to get me out of going.  I had never tried something like this before.

That Friday came sooner than I thought and I found myself at the Santa Monica Pier with the rest of the Lululemon Ambassadors ready for Trapeze class.  The set up was crazy and I couldn’t believe what they wanted us to do.  My heart was palpitating, my palms were sweaty, and I literally thought I couldn’t do it.  The instructors went through all the technicalities so fast that I remember saying, “You want me to do what?”

Climbing up the tall ladder was so scary and I literally cried the entire way to the top.  My heart was beating so fast that I couldn’t even introduce myself to the cute instructor at the top waiting to assist me.  I was one hot mess.  He said, “Just look out into the ocean and do not look down.  I am right here and will not let go until you are ready to jump.”  Was he joking?  Did he really just say all of this to me?  At this point, I was laughing and crying at the same time.  The next minute I knew I was screaming my head off and felt so alive.  I was in the moment and now determined to do everything they told me to do.  It was the best feeling to know that I overcame my fear and did it.  It happened so quickly and I wanted to go again.  As I climbed the ladder a 2^nd time, those butterflies in my stomach came back.  This time, I took a step back (not literally) to breathe and forget about the fear.

"Ilyse, I am dying to take your dance classes, but I can't dance.  I have 2 left feet.  I hear you’re an amazing instructor, but I just can't can't can't!" I hear this each week from people at the gym or outside of the gym who hear about my dance classes.  When I hear the negativity, I can't, I can't, all I hear these people saying is that they are making an excuse and not admitting to me that it is a fear they have to dance.  They are fearful to step out of their comfort zone and try something different.  Facing a fear or trying something different is never an easy thing to do and most people do not do it on a regular basis.  I now know this from experience and it comes down to this:  You have to at least try.  What is the worst thing that could happen?  You find out that it is not for you so you move on to something different?  Or best-case scenario, it is for you and you love it!  Either way, you can at least say you tried it, you know how it feels, and you did it!     

This is a perfect time of year to reflect back on.  Can you overcome one fear from 2009 or try to deal with it?  What about bringing in 2010 with trying something different?  Overcome a fear or 2…

Check out how I overcame my fear.  I did something that scared me, challenged me, but made an impact on me:

Ilyse fears the Trapeze School

Anything Is Possible

Meet Aleen Lodge, a 52 year old mother of 2, a wife, and Vice President of sales and marketing for Grapevine Communications.  I met Aleen about 3 months ago and invited her to take my dance classes.  At the time, Aleen's fitness routine was absolutely NOTHING!  The most exercise that she got was doing the laundry, walking the dogs around the block, and carting her kids around from activity to activity.  She was overweight, frustrated, and sick of her old ways.  Her weight was always a problem and her eating habits were out of control.  You name every diet out there and Aleen had tried it...but nothing had ever worked.  Every time she had a doctor's appointment, she would pray that she had a thyroid problem.  The question was, "Could Aleen make it possible to change?"

"I thought that I was going to die after my first dance class with Ilyse.  It was about 100 degrees in the summer time in the San Fernando valley with no air condition in the dance studio.  After 5 minutes, I had to stop because I could not breathe.  I had no stamina and all I could think about was Ilyse will never invite me back to this class again.  I had to push myself because I couldn't believe that this was considered exercising.  It was so much fun, the music was great, and she was incredible.  I had no dance experience, but she got me to move," Aleen voiced after class.

Is it bad to say that I was actually overjoyed by watching Aleen huff and puff through her first class with me?!  She struggled, had to stop numerous times, and it was awesome!  :)  I say this because at that moment I knew anything was possible for Aleen.  I knew that I had Aleen hooked and I was going to help her make a big change in her life.  That hot summer day was one of the best days of my summer, because the unexpected began...

"David, you are going to back to school night by yourself tonight, because I'm dancing.  I have gone every year.  This year, I am putting my foot down and I am not giving up my dance class.  It is my time and I will not compromise,"  Aleen told her husband.  When Aleen shared this with me that night after class, I could not stop laughing.  She put her dancing, me, and her new fitness routine in front of her own children.  I was very proud and excited to hear that her family was supporting her new choices as well.  Aleen was finally doing for Aleen.  She was no longer in bed at 8:30 p.m. ... instead...she was DANCING!

On September, 25, 2009, I received a text message from Aleen, "I just put on a pair of pants that I haven't been able to wear in a year!  Don't stop the music.  You've given me a new Ilyse on life!"  That text message was yet another "Rock Star" moment for my, Aleen Lodge.  The results that she was seeing, feeling, and getting were mind boggling.  This was just from dancing, eating the right way, and making new choices.

Now, after 3 months of me knowing Aleen, she asked me to share this, "I'm 52 years old, it has taken me this long to get here, but everything happens for a reason so it's okay.  This journey with Ilyse has made me feel good and made me realize that I will be around for a very long time.  I want to set a good example for my children.  I have lost 50 lbs. in 3 months, but it was the happy result to this experience with Ilyse.  I feel good and that is all that matters.  Discovering Ilyse has been more that I could have ever hoped for.  She is a choreographer, dancer, fitness instructor, and my angel.  I do not know where I would be or what I would be doing if I never met Ilyse.  I probably would still be sitting on my couch watching TV and not living my life.   Now 3 times a week, I know where I want be and what I want to be doing, because of Ilyse.  I didn't have it before, something was always missing, and now my life is complete.  This is a new part of my life.

After hearing how Aleen feels, it amazes me how many choices need to be made in life.  Some are doable, some are more difficult, and are some even possible?  Aleen Lodge's life has now changed for the better after that hot summer dance class.  Aleen Lodge did it....accomplished the unexpected...she is on her way to a new, exciting journey.  So...it is true...ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!!!

Take Aleen's story and reflect back on 2009.  What could you have done differently?  What did you not accomplish?  Could you have worked harder?  Whatever your answers may be just move forward.  Step into 2010 on the right foot, because "ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!"

Living The Life

There is ABSOLUTELY no one like YOU in this world. We all have something unique to say, to create, to offer, and to teach others. If you follow your heart and value your happiness it will lead you to great health with endless opportunities.  Your dreams, talents, passions and desires are your clues. Don't discount them. Instead, honor them and you will find happiness in all that you do.

After more than 20 years of studying dance and fitness, I know now that my greatest teacher, advisor, and guide, is my heart. I know now, more than ever to follow my heart and trust that it will always lead me to everything I need.
 
As many of you know, I started dancing at the age of 3.  I knew from the start that dance was my path. Right from the beginning I ate, slept, and dreamt dance.  I was the kid who never stopped twirling around.  I remember getting lost in the aisles of the supermarket because I was too busy leaping through the cereal aisle to realize, that my mom moved on to the freezer section.  My parents would get stopped all the time by complete strangers, “Wow, does your kid ever stop dancing?”

Growing up in South Jersey at one of the largest, most prestigious dance studios in the area was a true blessing for me.  I can recall countless opportunities as a young dancer:  trips to NYC; performances for local charities; regional and national dance competitions; master classes with Top Choreographers, and the list goes on and on.  To this day, I know that I wouldn’t be the dancer, choreographer, and teacher that I am if it wasn’t for the long hours spent in classes and rehearsals, amazing teachers, and support from my family. 

Of course my story continues and it just gets better. In my last 6 years of living in Los Angeles, I have had innumerable “hallelujah” moments:  Dance, Exercise, and Choreography all together!  This is what I, Your Dance Fitness Guru, am all about and it is my calling. What’s your calling?

I always knew that pursuing a career in the entertainment industry would be a risk. Would I make money?  Is it a “real job” for a college graduate?  Wait…does this all matter?  I love it and it makes me happy.  My mom used to say, “I would rather not eat then take dance away from you, Ilyse.  Go get it, girl!”  She is ALWAYS right so here I am…Your Dance Fitness Guru and I couldn’t be happier.

I am delighted at how my life is unfolding. I really feel like I found my true calling and it is a combination of the things I knew I wanted even as a child. I loved to dance, perform, create, receive attention, teach and lead.  My greatest accomplishment has been following my heart.
 
Following my heart has led me to so many unbelievable opportunities. If you feel you want guidance in this area, look for people who are living well, living lives they love, and who are truly happy. Remember, no one knows what is best for you but you. Look for people who ask you the questions that will help you uncover your heart and your passion.
 
Are you living a life you love?  If not…why?
 

This Is It

So by now most of you have seen the Michael Jackson documentary, "This Is It" and if you haven't then...WHY...What are you waiting for?! Go out and see it. The DVD and Blu-ray disc will be released on January 26, 2010. The documentary rung up $71 million in the domestic box office since bowing in theaters Oct 28. Both the DVD and high-def versions of "This Is It" will include several mini-documentaries and other special features. The Blu-ray Disc also will include two versions each of the Jackson music videos "Smooth Criminal" and "Thriller."

What did the movie mean to you? Yes, I am aware that there are so many ways to take that saying. Michael Jackson stated a clear message in the film, "We have only one planet." I agree with Michael's clear message and would like to add to it by saying, "We also only have one life." Life is full of opportunities and chances. Adding dance into your life is an opportunity and chance. The dancers in the film were very inspiring to watch and incredibly talented. I found myself jamming in my seat at the Theater wanting to jump through the movie screen. I am sure that you felt the same way. So here is the real question:  How much dancing do you do on a regular basis?  Do you continue to tell yourself that you have two left feet and will never be able to hear the beat of the music? Or maybe you say, "I just cannot dance!" My answer is that everyone has their own groove and can dance. All it takes is practice, motivation, and dedication. Give yourself some time to learn the moves and I promise you WILL be a dancer in no time just like the dancers in, "This Is It." Practice makes perfect...for some it is easy...for others it takes more time.

After seeing Michael Jackson's documentary, I was completely inspired that I choreographed to "Billie Jean" the entire car ride home. For the last two weeks, I have taught several routines using music from the hit album, "This Is It." Please click the link below to view a one and a half minute clip from my Cardio Funk class dancing to "Jam." Check out these HOT Mamas dance it out!

THIS IS IT 

Beat Those Extra Holiday Pounds NOW...

Can you believe that the holidays are just around the corner?!  Do you always fear that you will overeat at your holiday dinners and then, what happens:  those extra pounds will appear in places they do not belong to ever be in.  I have these thoughts at every holiday dinner.

This time of year can be very tough for all of us.  The one big battle that I hear about constantly is the fear of holiday weight gain.  Trust me, I fear it too.  I have no will power when it comes to my Aunt Seyna’s Thanksgiving stuffing, my Mom-Mom’s sweet potatoes, and my Mom’s delicious Hanukkah potato latkes and cookies.  Every year, I ask myself the same questions, “Is it all really worth it?  Do I need to gorge myself during these holiday meals?  What if I eat smaller portions or try giving up one side dish this season?”

I have learned that it is best to try to beat the holiday bulge now.  It has been estimated that people gain anywhere from 5-10 lbs during the holiday season.  Most people wait until after the damage is done to do anything about it.  Why do you think everyone’s New Year’s resolution is, “I MUST lose weight!”  There is a reason that every gym offers special promotions right after the holidays.  It is a guarantee for them that their sales will peak after January 1^st.  By acting now, we can all increase our metabolism and increase our lean body mass.  Make this holiday season fearless and the most enjoyable one yet!  Let’s not fear what we put in our mouths or how much weight we will gain.  Instead, check out some of my tips below to help you stay on track with your fitness and weight control during this holiday season.  Stay healthy, strong, and motivated this season!

• Keep your turkey to a serving about the size of your palm (approx 3 oz).

• Try to avoid most of the bread products as most are topped with butter or take a smaller portion eating it dry.

• Fill ¾ of you plate with vegetables

• Avoid high calorie drinks.

• Eat slowly, taking at least 20 minutes to eat your meal.  Try talking a lot or if you are like my family, we tend to sing songs, which slows up the meal. 

• When you are finished eating and you think you want seconds, wait 10 minutes.  BREATHE! Most of the time you will realize that you aren’t really hungry and you do not need seconds.

• Drink lots of water!!!

• Avoid the dark meat.  It tends to have more fat and has added calories.

• DO NOT eat the skin of the turkey.

• After your holiday dinner, take the family for a walk or do some other form of exercise that gets the heart pumping.  Remember you cannot burn fat and store fat at the same time.  By moving after your big meal, you will better utilize the calories you just consumed and offset any fat storage.

Remember to keep active trying to get at least 30 minutes of exercise 4-5 times a week. 

Also, remember that every once and a while it is ok and normal to splurge.  Just be true and honest to yourself.  Life is way too short to deprive your body so enjoy it to the fullest.  Tomorrow will always be a brand new day.  Keep the focus and you will find yourself ringing in the New Year remaining fit and healthy.

“You WILL thank me later.”

Stretch It Out

Do you know why stretching is an important part of any workout?  Do you stretch enough?  Have you ever thought of stretching when you are stressed out about something, need to release, or maybe just to do it?  

Stretching helps increase your flexibility and reduce your chances of injury.  It is very important to stretch after you've cooled down from any workout.  My personal favorite time to stretch happens right in my own home:  while I am thinking of new choreography or fun fitness tips to share with all of you, when I need to release my stress, relax my body, or even when I am just bored.  It is so rewarding to yourself, mind, and body.

I would like you to try stretching after a long weekend or a long day at work or even if your kid is napping.  Take just 5 minutes out of your day and try my, "Stretch It Out" routine.  I promise you will love it and you will find yourself doing it all the time.  Each stretch should feel good.  If you feel any pain, ease up and go slower.  Please click the link below to get started with my 5 minutes of "Stretch It Out", enjoy, and leave me a comment below so I know how well you did.  Good luck!

"Stretch It Out"

Dress The Part

I have lived in Los Angeles for 6 years now.  I, like every other person in Los Angeles came for the entertainment industry.  I can still clearly visualize my very first dance audition in Hollywood...

I was taking a dance class at the Edge Performing Arts Center earlier that week when I overheard some girls chatting about an upcoming Britney Spears audition,  "Did your Agent call you for Britney's audition?  Are you going?"  Of course, I continued to ease drop to get all the exact details about the audition so I could go as well.  Agent or no Agent...I was definitely making an appearance at this call.  Yes, I had only been in LA for a couple of weeks, but what did I have to lose... absolutely nothing?! 

During the next few days, I spent quality time with my sister, Dayna, my # 1 fan, who pumps me up for every audition.  We had our scheduled fashion shows and pep talks before the audition.  The fashion shows are always my favorite part, because Dayna raids my dance wardrobe to help me pick out the perfect outfit.  Finally, she always knows exactly what to say to pump me up so I step in on the right foot. 

On the day of the audition, I was so excited and ready for it.  I gave myself enough time to get dressed in my perfect outfit and to arrive extra early to warm up.  I wore my form fitting black jazz pants and a bright red leotard to help me stand out.  I got to the audition 45 minutes early just like I did at every audition when I lived in New York City.  "Where was everyone?  Am I am at the right place?  No line of dancers waiting to get the same job?  I know this is the right place."  Well, I waited patiently outside the door stretching and warming up.  Exactly 10 minutes before the audition was scheduled to begin, hundreds of female dancers finally got in the line behind me, except they all looked very different than I did.  I have never seen so many girls in the same place all wearing booty shorts and bikini tops.  "I mean why wear clothes at all?!  Did I miss part of the conversation as I was ease dropping finding out about the audition?  Was I suppose to wear this type of outfit?"  Every audition in New York City, all dancers wore dance clothes and we were judged by our talent and technique.  We definitely were not judged by what we wore.  Now of course I wanted to run and get out of that audition as quickly as I could before any of Britney's people saw me, but the next thing I heard was, "NEXT...headshot and resume, please." 

Obviously, my bright red leotard and black jazz pants did not land me this job.  Instead, it taught me a great lesson about auditioning in Los Angeles:  You gotta "Dress The Part!"  Now, with every audition and with every rehearsal, I always "Dress The Part."  For example, yesterday I started to rehearse with 2 talented friends of mine, Sam and Mark for an upcoming show.  The choreography is very smooth, tough, and macho.  I threw my hat and hoodie on to "Dress The Part."  It totally worked and made me feel great.  Another great tip that I have learned to do is keep an extra bag of clothes and shoes in the trunk of my car.  This way I have other options in the event that I get to an audition and I am dressed all wrong or I need something else that I wasn't told to bring with me.  It is better to be safer than sorry.  You just never know what to expect at an audition, callback, or even a class. 

So why am I sharing this with all of you?  Well, we all "Dress The Part" everyday for work, special events, etc.  Can you "Dress The Part" for your next workout at the gym or studio too?  It is helpful to wear clothes that make you feel more confident about yourself and your body.  This will actually make you work harder during each class.  I try my hardest to relay this message to my students.  It is fabulous seeing the "HOT Valley Moms" sporting cargo pants for Cardio Funk class.  I love it and I know it helps them feel funkier! 

The next time you decide to step into a new class at the gym or a local studio, try to "Dress The Part."  Treat every workout and class as an audition. You will learn the lesson too.

Here are a few of my favorite "Dress The Part" places:

1)  http://www.lululemon.com/

2)  http://www.reebok.com/US/#

3)  http://www.nike.com/

4)  Diva Boutique on Melrose

http://www.insiderpages.com/b/15240368319

5)  http://www.anatb.com/

6)  http://shop.nordstrom.com/

Swap Your Focus

Have you ever asked yourself the simple question, "What is my gym philosophy?" 

Do you go to the gym to lift weights?  Swim?  Run on the treadmill?  Take group exercise classes or do you even go to the gym at all?  For me personally, I have no excuse about going to the gym...it's my job.  Yes, I get paid to workout and I love it!  Those of course are great reasons, but in all honesty I wouldn't be the person I am today if I did not exercise.  It is a place to release which is the BEST feeling in my life.  Staying healthy, fit, and looking good are all bonuses to working out in my opinion.  I believe that each person needs to find the exercise that works best for them.  Working out should never be a chore!

This past Tuesday, after my Dance Party class at 360 Health Club, I learned something very interesting from a couple of my students. They were leaving the studio saying these words,  "Ilyse's classes are all amazing.  I never feel like I am exercising.  So what are your intentions of going to the gym?"  "Who cares...it so much fun and that is why I get my butt in the gym!  Her classes have changed my gym philosophy."

Some of these individuals come to the gym on a regular basis to tone, tighten, and blast fat.  Some others come because it keeps them healthy and fit.  While chit chatting and listening to them after class, they came to the conclusion that since joining my classes their focus has switched.  These people experience a sense of fitness, an increase of energy, a clarity of mind, and an overall happy outlook on life.  More comments were made to me,  "I come to the gym to stay healthy, but then when I get to your classes, all I do is have fun.  My focus has switched. I realize not only am I having fun, getting exercise, burning calories, clearing my mind, but I become a brand new person."

With all that said and done, I, Ilyse Baker fulfilled my job.  These people get me, my classes, and what being healthy is all about.  I challenge you to take a good look at your normal work out routine and now spice it up a bit.  Do something different, step out of your comfort zone, and I promise you too will swap your focus.

Behind The Scenes

About one month ago, I was approached at 360 Health Club in Tarzana, CA by one of my talented students.  She asked me if I would be interested in choreographing the 1st music video for her husband's show, "A Kid's Life."  Of course, I was very eager to learn more about the project and meet her husband, Keith Markinson, Creator / Director, in person.  At my first meeting with Keith, I viewed several clips from the touring show and was blown away immediately by the wonderful music, dancing, live performers, and costume characters.  It brought back great memories from the days when I traveled dancing professionally with Sesame Street Live playing "Prairie Dawn" and "Google the Purple Monster."  I couldn't help but smile and know before Keith explained anything further that I was his girl for the job!  I remember saying to myself, "This is so up my alley!  Keith then shared with me his website, www.akidslife.com where children are able to sing along with music from the show, play games, meet the characters of the show, and do lots lots more!  After seeing this site, I said, "Wow, if only I were a kid again."

To make a long story short or should I say, "Too late," Keith did hire me as the choreographer for his first "A Kid's Life" music video.  We hired 10 kids ranging from the ages 6 - 10 years old that were experienced in dance, singing, and acting.  We also hired the amazingly talented Mark Komlos to play the role of "Starsky."  "Starsky" is the popular dog in the show that the kids go crazy over and love.  I must say he is a lot of fun and very cute.

This past weekend, I had a total of five hours to teach the 10 kids and Mark 2 minutes and 36 seconds of choreography.  All I can say is, "WOW...what a job!"  We rehearsed Friday evening for 2 hours, Saturday for 3 hours, and then shot the music video all day Sunday.  I definitely gave these kids a great workout.  The music video was shot in Sun Valley, CA.  It is was a lot of work with little time, but we got it done.  I am so impressed with everyone's work ethics.  It truly was an amazing experience.  Thank you to EVERYONE that was involved...we did it!

What are the next steps?  The editing begins, final tweaks on the website, and the buzz starts going about "A Kid's Life."  Please be patient and stay tuned to view the first "A Kid's Life" music video choreographed by me, Ilyse Baker.  It is going to be a hit!  Watch out you tube because "A Kid's Life" music video WILL be the next video to get millions of hits.  Please take a moment to view some of our fabulous pictures below from the shoot.  Enjoy!

Just Dance It Out

     I tell my students over and over again on a daily basis, "You MUST step out of your comfort zone, leave your worries at the door, trust me, trust yourself, and I promise that you will leave class feeling even better than when you first walked into the studio.  "Just Dance It Out"  It is that plain and simple.
     This week, I want to try something a little different and challenge you to join me in the fun.  You will notice a link below that I would like you to click after you are finished reading this posting.  I have put together a 5 minute video of my favorite moves straight from my LA classes.  These moves all happened this week so they are funky, fresh, and brand new.  If you are familiar with me and my classes, please welcome me into your homes, practice, and share your "Just Dance It Out" moments with your family and friends.  If you are new to me, then I am so excited for you to experience what I do everyday in LA.  Please go ahead and pass this video along to all your family and friends as well.  Take your time with the moves and know that you can always rewind to do it over and over again.  After you get the moves, pop in your favorite music, and dance the day away.  Let's all make it one HUGE dance party and "Just Dance It Out!"  Good luck and enjoy!  Let me know how well you do.

"Just Dance It Out" 

with Ilyse Baker, Your Dance Fitness Guru

Making a Difference

     Do you ever wake up in the morning and think to yourself, "I wonder if today is going to be a day where I make a difference in something or someone?"  For me, I wake up with that thought every single day.  Making a difference is a huge part of what I do for a living.  Besides the fact that it is in my job description, I choose to make a difference in anything that I can.  For example, letting another driver in on the freeway, holding the door open for someone, or letting someone else ahead of me in line at the grocery store if they have only 1 item and I have 10.  It could be the littlest thing possible that you do to make a difference.  If it feels good then you did the right thing and you can say at the end of your day, "Wow, I made a difference today!"
     I bring this topic up because I experienced this today and I feel amazing.  Every Wednesday morning I teach Cardio Dance Fusion at Equinox Fitness Club in Woodland Hills, CA.  I have the hottest, most talented, fun group of women in my class.  I am blessed every single week with their smiling faces and tons of energy that they bring to my class.  Their willingness to learn more and more is so incredible and inspiring.  For the last 3 weeks, my Equinox ladies have been strutting their stuff to "Fame."  It has been a blast.  One of my newer students approached me after class in the parking garage and said these exact words, "Who do I talk to about getting you a raise or giving you an amazing review or whatever it is...you are truly amazing and make me feel so much better about myself and life.  No matter what you do I ALWAYS leave happier than when I walked through the doors of your class.  You are AMAZING and everyone needs to know!" 
     Now ask yourself, how would you feel if somebody said that to you?  This new student of mine who ROCKS it out every week made my day.  I had tears of joy in my eyes.  What a wonderful feeling it is to know that I made a difference in her life today, Wednesday, October 7, 2009. 
     I have been on cloud 9 ever since I heard those words and my day has continued to get better.  Try to wake up every morning asking yourself the simple question, "How can I make a difference in something or someone?"  Trust me the end result will be so rewarding.

How do I get beautiful, long, lean legs like a dancer?

This is a question that I hear all the time from my students and even complete strangers:  "How do I get beautiful, long, lean legs like a dancer?"  Dancers have amazingly fit bodies, and usually their legs in particular are lean and toned. Aside from taking dance classes, there are a few exercises that can be done in your own home, in just a few minutes each day to workout your lower body, and eventually develop toned legs.  Let me show you two exercises that you should start with:  Plies and Ballet Kicks.  I recommend putting in your favorite hits to get you in the mood to execute these exercises to the best of your ability.  Some of my favorite Artists to listen to while I perform the exercises below are as follows:  The Fray, Moloko, Akon, Sia, and Toby Lightman.

1)  Plies - Stand in ballet first position. (kiss your heels together and turn your feet out only as far as is comfortable). From here, slowly bend your knees as far as possible, while keeping your heels on the ground, with your knees directly over the middle of your feet. Now unbend your knees, moving back up to the starting position.

 

 2)  Standing in ballet first position (kiss heels together with toes pointed out to the sides of room) lift leg up to 45 degree angle, hold then come back down to starting position. Pull your navel into your spine and squeeze your butt cheeks together.

 

                                                                                  

Welcome to my blog!!!

Hi Everyone.  I am so excited you have decided to join my blog.  Please take a moment to read my About Me section to the left of this page especially if you are new to my fan club.  If we have not met yet, please leave me a comment below to introduce yourself.  I cannot wait for all the fun to begin...

Let's first start off with talking about natural ways to power up your brain.  I, recently read a wonderful article in a neighborhood magazine that talks about this matter.  Did you know that you can improve your memory, energy, productivity and general well-being throughout your entire life by developing everyday habits that are good for your brain like getting exercise that requires movements?  Top Specialist, Daniel G. Amen, MD who wrote this article says, "Any type of exercise is good, but the ideal exercise for a healthy brain combines aerobic workout with complex movements requiring quick reactions."  He provided examples and what do you think was first on his list?  DANCING!!!  With that being said, I will leave you with my "Move" for the weekend ahead: 

"DANCER ROCKIN ROLL ABS"

Description:  Everybody wants a 6 pack like the celebrity dancers that we see on the hit reality TV shows.  You can get them too by starting with this fun exercise.  Start with legs hip width apart. Soften your knees and tuck your pelvis forward then engage your core. Pump your arms and thrust your pelvis forward. It helps if you blast your favorite music. To start, try doing this exercise for 5 minutes then trust me, you will not want to stop.  The best part is that you do not do a single crunch on the floor. Please see the detailed examples below and click to enlarge the photos: