intervals

By The FIRM Master Instructor Alison Davis-McLain

Bootcamp-style workouts not only bring on the sweat — they can also turn up the fear factor! You might think bootcamp workouts are only for advanced exercisers. But even novices can do a bootcamp workout and reap its total-body benefits.

Everything is done at a faster pace and bigger fashion at the holidays. You eat more, drink more, spend more money and sleep less. You feel time crunched; you do your last minute shopping; and as fast as you create the holidays, they disappear.

Is the state of the economy distracting you from the state of your health?

I have found that in times of stress, physical exertion is one of the most effective and important steps to take — and it can actually help us through hard times.

Recently I was a first-time substitute at a very fancy treadmill studio in one of the affluent neighborhoods in L.A. The studio has top-of-the-line equipment and a stellar reputation, and the clientele is demanding and particular.

When week 8 of the Better Body transformation comes around many of my clients feel a sense of achievement already. At this point my hope is to have guided you to mindfulness — whether it is just moving your body, breathing, replenishing water and nutrition, or giving yourself permission to give all of this to your Own Body! What an act of love and respect to actually set aside time and put effort into healing, nurturing and creating the best you. I applaud you and whistle loudly!