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Daily Fit Tip: Show off

Daily Fit Tip

The other day, my Monday evening Ripped class had an unusual addition: A camera man. They were filming a segment for a special on TV, and wanted to capture some of the action from our class. And with the cameras rolling, I had one of the best workouts of my life. Why? I was showing off, of course. Studies show that when you know people are watching you work out, you work out harder.

While it's important to know your own limits, no one wants to be seen as that person who takes too many breaks or who doesn't lift as much as the rest of the class -- especially when you're potentially on TV. But even when the cameras aren't rolling, I find myself working out harder when I'm in the front of the class near the instructor and hard-core regulars because I know people will notice if I put my weight down.

So next time you work out, make yourself visible, or, if you work out alone, pretend someone is watching you. And show off! Give it your all and show people what you can do.

How magazines make us fat

Diet & Weight Loss, Fitness, Celebs & Entertainment, Nutrition & Supplements

I'm confused. Do the editors of women's magazines want us to lose 10 pounds instantly or stuff our faces with the sugary, fatty treats they advertise? The magazine sitting in front of me right now -- I won't mention any names -- features a full-page ad for Hostess 100-calorie packs of cupcakes. One hundred calories -- great, if you don't care about the fat and sugar in these sweet little treats.

In the same magazine, there's a recipe for chocolate cupcakes topped with chocolate frosting and a lollipop too. There's more -- macaroni & cheese; sweet, salty, and crunchy granola bars; waffles; Rice Krispies Treats; and creamy salad dressings. Then, readers learn how to lose a quick five pounds. Hey, I have an idea -- how about not eating anything splashed all over the ads?

Maybe it's how magazines stay in business -- by fattening up the audience and then enticing them into setting hard-to-reach diet and exercise goals. And so readers never make progress and keep coming back for more, sure one day to find the magic fix for looking and feeling good. The funny thing is, there is a fix. It's just not magical. Eat less than you burn. Or burn more than you eat. Either way, it's simple. So I say, enjoy your women's magazines. Just ignore the food ads and heed most of the diet and fitness advice. Then, you'll be on the right track.
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