21 Day Fix Extreme (Review)

You've probably heard of the 21 Day Fix...you've seen the infomercials, you've seen the containers...heck, maybe you've tried it. The 21 Day Fix was very first Beachbody program I tried and 2 rounds of it and I fired my gym when I realized that I hadn't even stepped foot in my "back up plan" in 2 months. I've been using Beachbody programs for over 2 years and the 21 Day Fix is always the one I fall back on. You can check out my review of the 21 Day Fix here.

It's my go-to program because.
1. it's only 21 days
2. I know it works
3. it dials in with nutrition, which makes me feel my best
4. the workouts are all 30 minutes

About a year after I began with the 21 Day Fix, the 21 Day Fix Extreme was released. I was able to try it out with celebrity trainer, Autumn Calabrese before the official release. I'll be honest, I was super intimidated by the program. We did lower fix and I was super sore the next day.

It was hard...

but I learned that hard isn't bad. 

Honestly, the main difference in the 21 Day Fix and the 21 Day Fix Extreme, is that it's just a little more extreme. If you've done the 21 Day Fix and want to take it to the next level, this is for you. 

If you want to dial in your nutrition, this is for you. 

If you want to break a plateau, this is for you. 

The workouts are somewhat harder and the meal plan is somewhat more extreme, 

however, the containers are the same. 

If the 21 Day Fix portion-sized containers are something you've come accustom to, 

this will be a super simple transition.

The meal plan is super simple and easy to follow.
And lastly....

On Extreme, you follow the containers plan (which is what I've done). After week 1, it was easier than I anticipated. You also have the option to do the countdown to competition plan for an even more extreme results. Autumn Calabrese, the creator the 21 Day Fix is a mom AND a bikini competitor, so she shares her secrets to her very specific plan to get in ripped condition! If you're getting ready for a competition...or maybe just a big event, you can use this option to really dial in your nutrition. It's essentially, lower carb and higher protein. The plan suggests that you do 2 days on/1 day off or 1 day on/2 days off for the last few days of the whole program. 

Here are the differences between the 21 Day Fix Extreme plan and the 21 Day Fix: 

1. The workouts are tougher. There are less breaks and the modifier is a little more tough. 

2. The nutrition guide is cleaner. The calorie brackets are the same, meaning that you get the same amount of containers, however, there are no cheats. In the 21 Day Fix, you can swap a yellow container for wine or chocolate...not this round. You'll have to pass up a few things...but, remember it's just for 21 days and you'll never be more proud of yourself for being so disciplined. You'll learn more about clean eating and your sweet tooth will actually consider fruit sweet -- which may allow you to breakthrough some bad habits!

What did I learn on this program? 

1. I learned so much more about discipline..which impacts every other area of my life!

2. I learned that hard doesn't = bad. 

3. I never saw such dramatic results in such a quick timeframe. (I lost 6 lbs. within the first 10 days!)

4. I learned that it really is okay to modify. 

5. I learned so much about meal prep.

6. I broke free from mindless snacking and my "need" for desserts/snack bars (yep, even if they're healthy).

7. I learned that a plan and accountability is everything (and while I knew this, having others doing this exact stricter program was so helpful)!

My favorite results came in my non-scale victory related to the shape of my face. 

I notice that when I eat sweets, it shows in my face so quickly! (That's the great thing about this nutrition plan, it really serves as a detox and allows your body to break free of cheats and ingredients that aren't so great for us.)

If you followed my 21 day journey (I shared every workout on Instagram), you would've read that I am not where I was a year ago and that's okay. The stress  of the past 6 months, the intense nausea I've felt from various means of trying to get pregnant, and the side effects from hormonal issues (I can't wait to share more on this) reek havoc on weight gain. I continued to eat clean and work out and check in with my accountability groups, but sometimes stress and imbalances can really throw our bodies out of whack! 

When you gain weight and you're in a hard season, you've got to give yourself grace in the journey. Granted, I was sick of playing victim and I left my excuses at the door. I wanted to dive into this program 100% and that's what I did; here are my 21 day results. 

If you're ready to get extreme, let me know. 

The program + Shakeology + accountability was the key to this incredible success, incredible plateau breakthrough, and the breaking of bad habits. It's just 3 weeks, but the impact will last much longer. Just message me and let's get started. 

Netflix for Workouts!

I used to be a gym rat...and what I mean when I say gym rat is that I'd go to the gym all of the time and not be satisfied with my results.

When I finally had enough, I reached out to my friend who seemed to be finding results another way.
I joined bought a challenge pack (a workout program + Shakeology + nutrition plan + portion containers) and joined a challenge group for support online.

The day that I purchased my challenge pack, I had access to stream my workouts online -- from my computer or my Apple TV....and about a week later, everything else (including the workouts DVD's) arrived at my doorstep. I fired my gym two months later when I realized that I hadn't stepped foot inside since my challenge pack purchase.

When I logged into Beachbody On Demand's website, I was pleasantly surprised to not only find the workout program that I bought, but a TON of others.

With Beachbody On Demand, I have unlimited access to stream workouts, anytime, anywhere.

I have so many options!

Randomly, you'll have the option to try out new workouts (and maybe some that aren't even released yet)! You can also unlock workouts like 21 Day Fix, 21 Day Fix Extreme, Insanity Max:30, Piyo, 22 Minute Hard Corps, and Cize. You'll also have access to nutrition guides, calendars, and more at the touch of your fingertips.

Questions (and answers) you might have: 

Q: Can I try it without purchasing?
A: Of course, you can sign in with your email address and you can try it completely FREE for 30 days. Click here to stream Beachbody On Demand for free for 30 days. 

Q: Will I need to buy the workout program to stream it?
A: No, programs in the library come with the membership to Team Beachbody Club.

Q: Is there an extra cost per workout used?
A: No, you'll have unlimited access in the Team Beachbody Club membership.

Q: Can I stream the workouts internationally?
A: Yes, you can stream the workouts as long as you have internet connection.

Q: Can I download the workouts and watch online later?
A: Yes! This feature is one of my favorites because sometimes, when we're camping we don't have service!

Q: Can I really get results from at-home workouts?
A: I did, but I guess you'll never know if you don't try. --->
If you commit, rely on support, then, yes, you'll get the results you desire. 

Q: What if I've purchased workouts previously, will they automatically be in my library?
A: If you've purchased Insanity Max:30, Body Beast, or P90X, you'll be able to stream those.

Q: Will I be able to stream workouts I purchased on DVD?
A: If you've purchased DVD's for Focus T25, 21 Day Fix, 21 Day Fix Extreme, or PiYo, you'll be able to stream those workouts anywhere!

Q: What are the benefits of working out at home?
A: Your home doesn't have closing times, your home doesn't randomly charge you extra fees, no waiting times for equipment and machines, your home doesn't judge you based on your clothes, your home doesn't judge you based on your clumsiness or modifications.

Q: How can I obtain the extra materials outside of the workout programs?
A: You will have access to printed materials like nutrition guides, and calendars all online.

Q: How much does Beachbody On Demand cost?
A: You've got 3 options: 1. The first 30 days are free. There is a risk-free cost for the Club membership of $2.99 per week and billed $38.87 quarterly following that. This is a 90 day membership. 2. A 6 month membership for $59.95 (with a 30 day money back guarantee (instead of the 30 day free trial). 3. A 12 month membership for $99.95 with a 30 day money back guarantee (instead of the 30 day trial).  If you change your mind within the first 30 days, you get a full refund. If you want to cancel completely after day 31, click here to email and cancel. 

Don't forget, if you're not sure where to begin or which workout best suits your style, try Beachbody on Demand for free for 30 days! YES, stream your workouts from ANYWHERE for 30 days! You can do a lot in 30 days, trust me! 

It's like Netflix for workouts!

Recharge From That Workout

Do you ever have an incredible workout and feel so sore when you wake up? 

That soreness is good but sometimes you just need some muscle relief, right? 

Do it with post-workout, night time Recharge Vanilla Blueberry "Ice Cream"

So, what is this 'Recharge'?? 

This vanilla formula includes slow-released protein, amino acids, and phytonutrients to help reduce muscle breakdown, promote lean muscle synthesis, and delay muscle soreness. 

What's in here?? 

The ingredients: 

tart cherry

beet sugar

slow-release micellar casein

amino acids

You could just add water and drink it within an hour of going to sleep 

OR you could make vanilla bluberry "ice cream"....

Just blend: 

1 cup almond milk

handful of blueberries

6 ice cubes

1 packet of Vanilla Recharge

viola!

Why is muscle recovery important?

Recharge contains casein, the slow-release protein (because it takes time for your system to absorb it, so the time while you sleep is perfect). Tart cherry powder is packed with phytounutrients which reduce exercise-induces muscle soreness. 

This is a powerful training tool to maximize those workouts you're working so hard for. More intense workouts mean quick results, right? 

Crush that workout, friend. Crush those goals. Recharge. Then, repeat. 

To order, click here. 

You're Invited

Thank you all for showing love on my last transformation picture -- it takes guts to share that stuff but if it helps one person get their health on track, it's worth it. Our next health accountability group begins Monday!! I'm anticipating sharing my 21 Day Fix results this upcoming week! 

Questions I've been getting lately: 
Q. Is this for guys and girls. 
A. Absolutely yes! Both men and women have had great results in my challenge groups (including my husband). 

Q. Is there fake sugar or bad ingredients in Shakeology like many meal replacements?
A. Nope, if you'd prefer 5 trips to the salad bar, that's on you, but I'd rather have a chocolate peanut butter cup shake.

Q. Can I do the workouts while traveling?
A. YES, you can stream them free for the first 30 days. 

Q. Can you help me with food, that's where I really struggle.
A. Yes, I've got meal plans, grocery lists, ways to save $, and recipes coming your way. 

Q. Can I still have wine on the 21 Day Fix. A. Yes! 

Q. Will the 21 Day Fix + Shakeology help me lose weight and break free from my sugar addiction?
A. It did for me and I'm getting messages daily from challengers who have had breakthroughs with food addiction! 

Q. What if I don't like Shakeology?
A. Open the bag, don't like it? Return it and get your money back.

So, you're invited to join me and my team to finish this summer strong with either the 21 Day Fix or 21 Day Fix Extreme for $10 with Shakeology and have the transformation I've felt over my last round on Extreme! Become more energized, and develop healthy habits before we dive back into the Fall with school + work busyness! Just message me!

What is Shakeology?

I started using Shakeology in the Spring of 2014 but it wasn't until the end of the year that I started sharing my journey with my friends and family. To be honest, I wanted to make sure this product had my stamp of approval before raving to all my friends about it.

I was all about working out. The workouts seemed great and we've seen those informercials for years, so surely people are seeing results, but I was anti-shake.
I was hesitant about even trying Shakeology because I questioned a lot

...what ingredients were in there? ...why should I spend the money? ...is it good for someone trying to get pregnant?...is it healthy for men and women?...is there splenda or fake sugar?...will I like the flavor?

Then I did my research. I was so hesitant about this at first until I did my research! (I always encourage everyone to do their research!)

I finally decided to just give it a shot for one month and realized:

>> it's filled with so many superfoods that I don't have to take vitamins anymore
>> I am more energized
>> I combat sugary cravings
>> I've never been healthier
>> it's an easy meal on the run
>> it's one super healthy meal of the day I don't even have to think about
>>  it's cheaper than a healthy meal would be
>>  my skin is clear since using it
>> my diet is more balanced
>> my digestive system is balanced
>> my hair is longer and my nails are stronger

....well, it's been over 27 months now and I drink it every day.

What is Shakeology? 

Shakeology is a nutrient enriched powder with 70 ingredients, including 23 vitamins and minerals, protein, superfood antioxidants, herbs, pre and probiotics, and digestive enzymes.

There is a protein blend that includes whey, Sacha Inchi, chia, flax, quinoa, amaranth, brown rice, and pea (this is the non-vegan formula blend; there is also a chocolate and strawberry vegan formula option). Protein is important for mental clarity, lean muscle building, improving skin/hair, and reducing cravings. Each shake has 17 grams of protein per serving.

Next up, are the superfoods....you'll see camu-camu, acai, acerola cherry, bilberry, goji berry, grape seed, green tea, lun hao guo, pomegranate, and rose hips. These ingredients promote antioxident suport for a healthy immune system, heart, and regulate optimal blood pressure.

Next is the super green phytonutrient blend that includes moringa, chlorella, spirulina, spinach, barley grass, kamut grass, wheat grass, and oat grass. These phytonutrients make Shakeology unique and help to detoxify the liver, kidneys, and your blood that help restore your health.

There's an adaptogen blend that protects your body from stress and helps support your immune & endocrine systems. This blend includes ashwagandha, astragalus, cordyceps, ginkho, maca, maitake, reishi, schisandra, and tulsi (holy basil).

Last, in the probiotic/digestive enzyme blend that helps your body absorb nutrients, and helps digestive regularity. This blend includes yacon root, lactobacillus sporogenes, amylase, cellulase, lactase, lipase, protease, bromelain, and papain.

Wow! That's a lot of superfoods that I don't know how to pronounce and I know what you're thinking, it's got to taste like spinach and kale with all of those superfoods, right??

So, what does it taste like???
You can choose from chocolate, vanilla, cafe latte, strawberry, and greenberry. My personal favorite is vegan chocolate -- it has a dark chocolate taste. Chocolate, Cafe Latte, Vanilla, and Strawberry all have vegan options! In my challenge groups, I share various recipes to blend your Shakeology, from peanut butter cup to Pina Colada, to making mug cake to ice pops, the recipes are really endless!

Why do I love it so much? 
The convenience and the money saved! We already talked about how hard (and expensive) it would be to get all these vitamins individually, but I also get these superfoods delivered straight to my door!

Not only is it loaded with nutrition, but it's one meal a day I don't have to think about. It takes a minute to make and great on-the-run!

When I first started looking into ordering Shakeology, I'll be honest, I was worried about cost. What I wasn't thinking about was what I would no longer be purchasing because of Shakeology....

I either no longer need or have cut back on: coffee, healthy snack bars, protein powder, vitamins, fast-food, store-bought smoothies, ice cream, and the super healthy ingredients for one healthy meal a day!























The question I often get is, 'will I lose weight with Shakeology?' Every doctor will say that to lose weight, eat healthy and exercise, right? Sometimes I think that working out for 2% of my day (just 30 minutes), is the easy part....changing your nutrition can be tough at first, but it's made easier with a plan + accountability. What I've found is that most people don't know how to change their diet because of years of bad habits. By adding Shakeology to your diet, it takes the guess work and provides a healthy meal daily. I believe that Shakeology hasn't only helped my husband and I get healthy from the inside out, but it has also helped us lose weight, and maintain our weight.

Shakeology is not a quick fix! Years of adding excessive weight to your body will not fall off by using Shakeology BUT because of the nutrients, it will help with weightloss. If you replace one meal a day (and when I say this, I mean when you're eating 6-8 smaller meals a day), with Shakeology, you will see optimal results.

Can you lose weight without Shakeology? OF COURSE! But, for me, it's the secret sauce in my health and weightloss journey. By having a chocolate shake every single day, I no longer crave my ice cream every single night....I no longer have the need for a Starbucks stop all the time, I no longer waste money at fast food stops, I no longer worry about finding healthy meals while traveling, and my commute to work is made less stressful because of the superfoods in my coffee breakfast shake!

Does all of this have you curious about what Shakeology can do for you and your family? Let's chat.
Often, I've got deals running for a workout program when you order a bag of Shakeology, so be sure to contact me to get the best deal before giving this a shot! To order, click here.


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Frozen Chocolate Banana Pops

Growing up in Florida, popsicles (in various forms) were my favorite treat! Today, I was trying to think of something healthy, but delicious to snack on this summer and of course, popsicles came to mind. I make these Healthy Peanut Butter Cups all of the time, so that's where the idea started! I thought these pops would make a for a great treat for the Fourth of July!

Makes: 4

Takes: one hour (mostly that's just the length of time for the freezer)

actual work, around 15 minutes

What you need: 

2 bananas

4 tbs melted coconut oil

2 tbsp water

4 tsp Chocolate Shakeology

optional: sprinkles (because, obviously) or coconut flakes

Popsicle or lollipop sticks

1. Peel bananas and cut in half

(If your bananas are really thick, you can cut in half again)

2. Stick a stick in each banana half and place on parchment paper. 

3. Place bananas in freezer

4. In a mug, mix water, melted coconut oil, and Shakeology

(Make sure the chocolate is a thick syrup consistency -- if not, ad a little bit of water until it is)

5. Dip frozen bananas in chocolate until banana is covered

6. Sprinkle with shredded coconut and/or sprinkles.

(You can use any color for any occasion!)

7. Freeze until.....frozen

8. Enjoy!

Do you have 70 superfoods and nutrients in your July 4th treats??

Want to know more about Shakeology, click here.