PFIT PFINDS

Big, Bold & Beautiful Gym Bag Give-a-Way

by Bonnie Pfiester

A few weeks ago, I featured the Home-Gym-Home Fivesse Bag on my blog, showing off this purse-size bag I toted across 8 states on a fun journey to Ms. Senior America. This week, I’m featuring the other Fivesse bag I took on the trip – the Home-Gym-Work bag.

This bag is much bigger than the Home-Gym-Home bag. The Home-Gym-Work bag has a ton of pockets (each labeled with cute pictures so you know exactly which each pocket was designed for) and has a place for everything you need to get ready at the gym – or on the road. This is also the bag I take with me on every weekend getaway – including our Thanksgiving vacation this weekend.

To show how roomy this bag is, I decided to unpack it (minus my dirty clothes) and show you everything that was currently in my bag after my trip. I already pulled out 2 pairs of jeans and a few shirts (and another pair of shoes) but, as you can see here, I still had a LOT of stuff in this bag!

Here are all the cute labels to show you where everything is supposed to go. So original!

In My Fivesse Bag

Socks
Shoes
5 tanks
3 long sleeve shirts
3 bra tops
1 pair of workout tights
Laptop
Power supply
iPad
Phone chargers
Armpocket Armband for my iPhone
Headphones
2 brushes
Hairdryer
Make up bag
2 cans of hairspray
2 protein bars
Business cards
Body Lotion
Mouth wash
Curling iron
Beanie (to keep my Floridian noggin warm)
Ball Cap
3 pair fresh undies
and a partridge in a pear tree (OK, maybe not that) lol

ONE LUCKY GIRL

If you like this bag, FOLLOW the giveaway on Facebook or Instagram and post a comment on either of these posts: We will be giving away 2 50% OFF coupons (one on each page) so you can get this bag for half the regular cost!!

MEN’S PFITNESS: Get Your Fitness Mojo Back

by Steve Pfiester

Anyone who has worked out for any length of time realizes there are different seasons in the gym. Definitely not referring to Summer or Winter. The seasons I am talking about are “the lazy season”, “the lean up season”, “the bulk up season”, or even “the I’m on fire to workout season”.

If you are like me, one week you want to be bigger, then a week later you want to be more shredded. Then, maybe you get bored, then you just don’t care – only to see something that inspires you or motivates you to get back and “train like a freak”. For me, this is usually a picture of my fat face or brand new belly!

Whatever season you’re in, we all aspire to see or experience that “one thing” that organically creates a deep burning desire to be sold to get in shape once more. (Side note: the true desire to get fit has to be because you want the change for you, not to train for anyone else!)

“The Lazy Season”

Recently Bonnie, my wife, and I competed in a pretty large bodybuilding and physique event in Daytona Florida. We both were completely motivated to train and eat like a “Pharisee” for over 4 months. Our motivation never wavered. We were relentless in our pursuit of the goal laid before us. During the training we vowed to have tighter parameters of our weight and diet, making sure to maintain all of this hard work and higher level of fitness. But here I am, 2 Disney trips, 3 nights on the town, 1 week of company at our house, and 6 weeks later, disappointed and rather stale with my eating and training. We had the best intentions, we even set limits on our diet and I have definitely been training. So what happened?

Good intentions and even setting strict parameters are futile if left unchecked. Laziness quickly sets in. Arbitrary goals with no finish line are a sure way to fail. Our goals need to have a finite beginning and end that depicts some entity of time, and reward. Give your self a start line and a definite finish line that you CAN NOT continue to move every time you mess up. If you keep restarting your diet and training every Monday, it is probably because your finish line is as “wishy washy” as your efforts to get in shape.

TLF APPAREL

“The Get Back on Track Season”

Even after establishing some goals, how do we get back (and stay motivated) to “train like a freak”?

TLF Apparel 1. New routine and exercises to facilitate the goals you established (bigger, stronger, faster). Sign up for another show, race, competition or event.
2. Get some food and supplements that will enhance training. New recipes and doing research on vitamins will help motivate you.
3. Grab some new music and make a sick playlist specific for each workout (cardio, arms, legs, ect…)
4. New gear… My favorite motivator. A new outfit from TLF Apparel, new shoes, gloves or straps, a new med ball, speed rope, kettle bell, did I mention a new outfit?

So whats the deal? Establishing the goals in a finite time is by far the most important, but making an investment into that goal is paramount. If every Monday you are starting over you need to feel a loss of your investment. It needs to cost you something when you mess up or quit. In order to look freaky good, you have to “train like a freak”.

Check out this gear I got from TLF (Train Like a Freak) apparel that got me back on track to train like a freak. Thanks TLF, you guys motivate me!!!

CONNECT WITH TLF:

Follow the Train Like a Freak hashtag for motivation.
Follow them on Instagram
Follow them on Facebook
Follow them on Twitter

TLF is on our Merry Pfitness Gift Idea List. Click HERE to learn more.

TLF Apparel – for men and women

Infinity Rep Sleeveless Hoodie

I can wear this hoodie to the gym or I can throw it on with some jeans and go to a movie. It’s really that versatile – and yet it’s cozy as my most comfy pajamas, so I tend to throw it on when lounging around the house too. It’s definitely one of my favs. As much use as I get out of this, it’s worth the money. Price tag: $54.00. Available in grey or black.

Product Highlights:
High-quality Infi-Dry™ fabric keeps you cool & dry
Lightweight soft comfortable fabric Flat seamed for chafe resistance
Mesh back shoulder and hood panels for added style
Reflective Infinity logo on the upper front left chest
Reflective Infinity “punched out” logo on the back right shoulder
TLF engraved drawstring caps

Coupon Code to get 20% OFF
CODE: 20TLF002
CLICK HERE TO ORDER

Infinity Longevity Shorts

TLF’s™ Infinity Longevity Shorts is made with Infi-Dry™ technology, these lightweight, moisture-wicking shorts provide you with comfort that will last throughout your entire workout or any sports activity. Price Tag: $44. Available in grey or black.

Product Highlights:
High-quality Infi-Dry™ fabric keeps you cool & dry, wicking away the sweat and moisture
Custom “Property of TLF Crest” artwork on front of left leg
TLF woven skull patch on center back
Convenient side pockets to store items safely during workout
Drawstring waistband for a custom fit
TLF engraved drawstring caps

Coupon Code to get 20% OFF
CODE: 20TLF002
CLICK HERE TO ORDER

Up Next:

I will show off my next outfit. You can get a sneak peak of it, before my review goes out in this recent video (where I talk about sculpting tips).

MERRY FITNESS: Christmas Gift List for Fitness Enthusiasts

by Bonnie Pfiester

PFIT PFINDS: Christmas Gift Ideas

As a blogger, I get an opportunity to try all kinds of fun fitness gear, accessories, devices and products. Every year I use my findings and share gift ideas for the fitness enthusiast (from my favorite products I’ve either found on my own or done a product review for). As I continue to discover new products, I will be adding to THIS page all through November and December. So, bookmark this page because it will be growing leading up to Christmas Day.
Look for this Pfit Pfinds logo in blogs for more Christmas Gift Ideas.

(more…)

Tips to Finding the Perfect Gym Bag

by Bonnie Pfiester

I’ve been in the fitness business for over 20 years (yes, I’m dating myself here!), and I have to say, I have not seen a lot of “pretty” gym bags in those 20 years.

Most gym bags are pretty sporty and look more like they belong on the football field than on a girl’s shoulder. I find a lot of gym bags are the colors of a sports team and less than girlie – not to mention, are very limited on storage pockets. A man must design them! Can I hear an Amen?! lol

This is a different generation. Today’s generation of gym rat looks a lot different than yesteryear. Fitness is not just for guys and girls who are into sports. Girls lift weights and train like athletes, but still enjoy wearing designer jeans and high heels. Fitness is a lifestyle and our gym bag is as important as our purse.

Finding the Perfect Bag

Shopping for a gym bag can be exhausting (unless you have a chick like me that shares their great finds with you. Wink wink!) If you are looking in a local sporting goods store, chances are, you are just going to find a good sports bag – and not have a lot of variety of style to choose from. If you go to a designer store, you might find a pretty bag, but it may not have all the functionality you need.

While everyone’s needs and tastes are different, I think a few things are probably pretty important to most women – however, I don’t think every shopper really thinks about what they want before they start looking. Instead, they just do an impulse buy, buying either what looks pretty on the outside, or what is a good deal.

Here are the 3 main features I look for when shopping for a new gym bag.

1. Pretty. Yes, pretty is important to me. I think I use a gym bag more than any purse I own, so I want to enjoy it. Who’s with me?

2. Functional. It HAS to be easy to use. If I have to fight with the straps, zippers, space, shape, etc, I won’t wear it. No “good deal” is worth even a little money if I waste it and don’t use it. I am looking for the PERFECT bag, not just any bag.

3. Practical. I look for a LOT of pockets – and the MORE the MERRIER! I need a place to put my water bottle, fresh clothes, dirty clothes/stinky shoes, phone, “purse stuff” (like lip gloss, wallet, keys), and a place to put my gym accessories (like headphones, ipod, straps, etc).

4. Durable. There are a few things that give out quickly with gym bags. Zippers break, the nylon frays, and the straps break. I don’t know how many gym bags my husband and I have gone through over the years (back when we got our gym bags at discount department stores and we never paid more than $39.99 for a bag). I have to admit, you get what you pay for. I am afraid to think of the money I’ve ~~spent~~ wasted on stuff (because it was a good deal) – but I never used, or it didn’t last. A gym bag really is an investment to people who really live the fitness lifestyle and rely on them. Durability is a must, and it’s OK to spend a little more on it if it lasts and you love it.

Introducing the Fivesse Home-Gym-Home Bag

I was so stoked to have the opportunity to do a product review on the Fivesse Home-Gym-Home Bag. By the looks of it, it was going to meet all 3 of the criteria I look for – and BOY, did they meet all my expectations and more!!

Here are all the things I loved about this bag:

1. It is stylish and pretty. Seriously, how many gym bags can you throw on your shoulder like a purse and wear with heels? I used this bag as my purse the entire time I was in Atlantic City with my mom for Ms. Senior America.

2. It has 10 separate compartments - all labeled so you know exactly what each pocket is designed for! There is the main compartment for your clothes and large items, a vented pocket for shoes or dirty clothes, a medium size internal zipper pocket for make-up and accessories, a pouch for headphones and ipod, a zipper pocket for jewelry, a pocket for sunglasses, an outside pocket for your phone, another pocket with elastic trim to hole your water bottle, a small outside velcro pocket for your gym membership card and a big side pocket (which also neatly hides the yoga straps when you aren’t using them). There is also a hook to put your keys on, so you don’t have to dig around in the bottom of your bag looking for keys! What more could a girl ask for?!

3. It is the perfect size. The Home-Gym-Home is the perfect size for me. I don’t need to pack a hair dryer and my entire dressing room since I’m just going from the home to the gym and back (hence the name of the bag!). They MADE this bag for people just like me! In my bag, I have a fresh set of clothes, ipad, headphones, iphone, iphone armband, hair ties, jacket, water bottle, wallet, sunglasses, iphone charger, note pad & pen (I do some of my best thinking at the gym! ha!), body spray, lotion and business cards – and still have TONS of room to spare!

4. It doubles as a great travel bag/purse! I didn’t plan this, but I ended up using this bag instead of my purse for my entire trip to New Jersey last month. I put my hotel key card where the gym membership card went and enjoyed all the pockets to use for my cameras, smart devices, umbrella and all the things I needed to travel with ease. This would be a GREAT bag to take on an airplane. Seriously, this bag couldn’t be more handy.

5. Is has great colors. The color combination of black, tan, cream and pink make this bag even more versatile. It looked great with all black, and it looked nice with tans and browns too. The pink softens it up so no one would ever know you are carrying a gym bag – and the pretty hounds tooth design sets it off beautifully, adding a perfect touch of class and design.

6. It comes with a cool little headphones organizer. The simple little disc (in the shape of their logo, pictured below) makes it easy to wrap your headphone chords up neatly so they don’t get tangled. I don’t know about you, but i used to spend a lot of time untangling my chords every time I did cardio. No More! What a nice little extra touch!!

fivesse headphone organizer Fivess Headphone Organizer

MERRY PFITNESS

I love this bag so much, this bag is the FIRST to go on my Merry Pfitness Pfit Pfinds List. Look for this logo on any of my blogs for my personal recommendations of Christmas Gift Ideas for the fitness enthusiast.

Follow my Merry Pfitness Board on Pinterest for more Pfit Pfinds as I begin shopping and exploring gift ideas!

Fivesse Give-A-Way

If you are interested in getting one of these beauties, I will be giving away a special 50% OFF COUPON to ONE lucky WINNER. Entering to win is easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. Subscribe (if you aren’t already subscribed).

2. Share this blog on your social channels.

3. Comment below and tell us why you’d like to be the next proud owner of a Fivesse bag!

The winner will be selected randomly by a computer generated program so don’t worry, no “favorites” here. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winner (which I will post on the bottom of this blog when they are chosen).

A Video Tour of the Fivess Home-Gym-Home Bag

NOTE: This blog was sponsored by Fivesse. All opinions are honest and my own. I only partner with brands I truly love. I am happy to do product reviews, but please don’t ask me to blog about a junky product, unless you want a junky review). #justsaying

Healthy Sugar Substitute Makes Yummy Pre-Workout Recipe

by Bonnie Pfiester

The following post is sponsored by FitFluential LLC on behalf of Canadian Maple Syrup.

When you think of maple syrup, you probably think “PANCAKES”! A beautiful stack of buttermilk pancakes with warm golden brown maple syrup poured over melting butter, ready to be washed down with a glass of cold milk. At least that’s what I think of! However, there is a lot more to maple syrup than you think – and I think you’ll be very surprised to read what I have to share!

First surprise: 80% of the world’s maple syrup comes from Canada. If you want real maple syrup you need to make sure it is Canadian Maple syrup, which is unprocessed and 100% natural.

Second surprise: Did you know most leading pancake syrup brands do not even have maple syrup in their syrup? How crazy is THAT? They rely on high fructose corn syrup (which isn’t as healthy and has more calories than Canadian Maple Syrup). When I heard this, I had to go check it out for myself. (watch the video)

[youtube=http://youtu.be/4YIk6CjOdLI]

Third Surprise: Canadian Maple Syrup has fewer calories than honey (and a LOT more flavor too!). This is funny to me because I prefer maple syrup over honey in many recipes (like oatmeal and mashed sweet potatoes), but figured it was higher in calories. Maybe it’s because it’s called “syrup” and I just think high calories when I think syrup. Ironically, I found I use less syrup than honey because it has more flavor!

Fourth Surprise: Canadian Maple Syrup is high in anti-oxidants – and the darker the grade of syrup the higher in anti-oxidants it is. Check out the difference between Canadian Maple Syrup and other sweeteners.

Canadian Maple Syrup Versus Popular Sweeteners

Pre-Workout Protein Rice Pudding

I found this great pre-workout rice pudding, and I decided to tweak it to make it a little lower in calories and higher in protein. So, I put my thinking cap on and went mad-scientist in the kitchen. I replaced the flour with protein powder and the condensed milk with fat free milk. I reduced the amount of maple syrup (because I’m trying to make the yummy stuff last!!) and I topped it with a sprinkle of cinnamon and granola. Then I tested it out on my house guests. …and the verdict was “Wow! That is really good. Can I have a bowl?” So, I would say it was a success!!

Recipe
3 cups cooked rice
2 cups fat free milk
1/4 cup greek yogurt
2 scoops vanilla protein powder
1/2 cup Canadian Maple Syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

Combine all the ingredients, minus the greek yogurt and protein powder, in a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Once it begins to boil, mix in the yogurt and protein powder, reducing heat while mixing. Remove from heat and let it stand to thicken. Serve cold or hot. Makes 4 servings. 314 calories per serving.

Optional toppings:
Cinnamon
Raisins
Nuts
Granola
Fruit

Cooking With Maple Syrup

Nano 4.0: The Perfect Gym Shoe

by Bonnie Pfiester

The following post is sponsored by FitFluential LLC on behalf of Reebok.

Reebok’s CrossFit Nano 4.0 shoes are not just for CrossFit enthusiasts. While the CrossFit community did help Reebok design the perfect shoe for their type of training, this shoe belongs in EVERY gym.

The 4mm heel to toe drop makes this shoe super stable, which is important when lifting weights – especially for leg day. That’s why the Nano is the shoe I wear every day I do heavy lifting, squatting or any other workout requiring balance or a good stable base.

Here is an example of my leg routine I did this week with my new Nano 4.0s!

LEG DAY

6 Sets of Prone Hamstring Curls
My weights:
2 Sets 50lbs
2 Sets 60lbs
2 Sets 70lbs

4 Sets of Straight Leg Deadlifts
15 reps at 95lbs (Steve was wearing his new Nanos too!)

4 Sets of Seated Hamstring Curls
15 sets of 60-80lbs
(going up each set, ending with 12 reps)

4-5 Sets of Leg Press
30 reps (Starting with 2 Plates ending with 4 Plates)

4 Sets of 1-Leg Leg Press
20 reps – Starting with 1 plate, going to 4 plates
(shedding 1 plate after 10 reps)

4 Sets of Leg Extension
20 reps each
If you want to go up in weight each set,
you can go down in reps
FEEL THE BURNNNNNN!

My Nano4 Review:

The first day I wore my new Nano 4.0s, I did an hour on the elliptical, an hour of legs and an hour of kickboxing. I have to admit, that was a little overkill on the first day of breaking in a shoe. I got a little blister around my ankle from the extra support they put in the shoe during kickboxing, but wore them again with no problems at all. While I wouldn’t go on a long run with them personally (because my feet do better with a little more arch support and cushion), I will use them for short runs, elliptical, plyos and weight training.

The upper part of the shoe is wrapped in a protective lightweight rubber mesh that adds more durability (great for rope climbing) and activities where the upper shoe may rub against another surface. The shoe’s sole grips the ground nicely, perfect for box jumps and plyos.

Aside from the practicality of the shoe in a fitness setting, the Nanos are the only tennis shoe I find myself wearing outSIDE the gym! Steve and I both wear them with regular clothes because they just look cool. Instead of a typical looking tennis shoe that looks like it’s only made for running, Reebok Nanos look stylish enough to wear with jeans or cute shorts. They are hands-down the most versatile tennis shoe on the market.

CLICK HERE to check out all the colors!

50% off Reebok TODAY ONLY!

by Bonnie Pfiester

Reebok Outlet has taken 50% off all items for one day only. This is in addition to the already discounted prices!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Offer: Reebok Outlet: 50% off all items!
Run Date: Wednesday, July 23rd ONLY
Promo Code: iSHOP

INCLUDES: Nano 2.0, ATVs, RealFlex, DMX SKY, ZigQuick, Reebok ONE shoes, Yoga apparel, Zumba Dance apparel and CrossFit Apparel.

Now’s your chance to stock up!

**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Check out what’s in their outlet! (OVER 720 KILLER ITEMS)

ATVs – My trail running shoe

My favorite running shoe, the DMX SKY

My favorite weight training shoe, the CrossFit Nano 2.0 (Hint: I have bought both guys & girls shoes to get the colors I want!)

My favorite workout shorts!!

Steve’s favorite training shorts.

Here’s a video on the shorts I wear. You don’t have to be a crossfitter to appreciate these super comfy shorts that are great for lifting weights, doing kickboxing classes, running or any other activity that requires flexible comfortable attire.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/7c7EKJH4CSY]

TITIN TEST WORKOUT: Improve Speed, Power & Endurance

by Bonnie Pfiester

The following post is sponsored by FitFluential LLC on behalf of Titin Tech.

Want to improve speed, power and endurance? Whether you are an athlete or a fitness enthusiast who likes a challenge, the Titin Test is for you! This workout is designed to work with the Titin Weighted Compression Shirt. But before you begin the workout, you need a marker. In other words, you need a number to beat.

The Marker

Do these exercises with no resistance.
60 seconds each, with only 30 secs rest.

#1 Pull Ups (Mark you reps)
#2 Push Ups (Mark you reps)
#3 Sit Ups (Mark you reps)
#4 Box Jumps (Mark you reps)

The Titin Test Workout

After you are nice and rested, put your Titin weighted compression gear on and get ready to do the following exercises with no rest.

10 DUBS (Double Unders)
60 Seconds of Pull Ups
10 DUBS (Double Unders)
60 Seconds of Push Ups
10 DUBS (Double Unders)
60 Seconds of Sit Ups
10 DUBS (Double Unders)
60 Seconds of Box Jumps

Complete 1- 3 Rounds

Follow The Video:

[youtube=http://youtu.be/Y4Y8TwUMoXk]

Do the Titin Test 2-3 times a week for 1-2 weeks. Then check your progress against your original markers. The more you train with Titin weighted compression gear, the more fit you’ll become. It’s only a matter of time before you will be faster, stronger and have more endurance. Keep good records each time you test against your marker.

Like what you see? CLICK HERE to fund your fitness and learn more (and get your own) Titin Weighted Compression Gear! Join the Titin team today!!

BIG SALE: Reebok Nano 2.0s (& Shoe Tips for Pain-Free Workouts)

by Bonnie Pfiester

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Out of all my Reebok shoes, the Nano 2.0s are still some of my favorite kicks of all time. The way the look, the way they feel, the way they perform – nothing compares. They are one of the few pair of tennis shoes that look great in the gym, but also look awesome with jeans, shorts and even capris.

I have so many people ask me about my nanos, but one of the common responses is they are never on sale. So I made a pact to tell you when they ARE!!

Today only, you can get your own pair of Reebok CrossFit Nano 2.0 in Nacho Orange (V51721) for just $55! These exact shoes are the last Nanos I purchased myself and I paid full price I might add!

crossfit nano 2.0 I should warn you. This item is limited in stock, and the sale only lasts one day, May 29th, so be sure to hurry and grab yours! Have fun shopping!!!

► Use Promo Code: NANO55

What’s a Nano? Nanos are not a running shoe, they are a cross-training shoe that are awesome for lifting, doing plyos, short sprints (or shorter runs), rope climbing and body weight exercises. These shoes ROCK!

Are Your Shoes Hurting You?

Did you know getting the wrong shoes can cause all kinds of odd body pain?

You can have knee issues, calf issues, painful ankles, hip pain and foot pain – all because you bought the wrong shoe for you OR you are wearing the right shoe for the wrong exercise! If you experience muscle or joint pain, the first thing you should try to try another pair of shoes. Whether they are old, or they just aren’t the right type of shoe for you (or the exercise), some pains can be eliminated simply by changing shoes!

Check out my latest article on Answers.com:
► 10 tips to shopping for tennis shoes

MORE FIT TIPS FOR RUNNERS & SHOE BUYERS:

► The Shoe Buyer’s Guide (HINT: it’s all about the sole!)
► A Simple Fix for Knee Pain
► Kick Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
► How to Read Your Shoes

Be sure to subscribe if you want to learn more about killer fitness deals, helpful tips & fitness motivation!

GYM BAG: Prissy, Practical & Pretty

by Bonnie Pfiester

I use my gym bag more than I do my purse! A matter of fact, I don’t even CARRY a purse during the week! A rely on my gym bag to carry all my belongings around. That is also why I don’t want to lug an ugly bulky manly bag from home to work to the gym or whereever!

So when I recently discovered Fivesse Home-Gym-Work Bag, I instantly fell in love! Maybe it was the soft pink accents. Maybe it was the cute tabs on all the pockets to help you organize your things. It could have been the pretty color combinations and patterns. When I try to pinpoint it, I simply can’t! I think it’s D: All of the above!

I got my bag with a matching garment bag for those times I need to have a nice change of clothes on a hanger instead of all bunched up in a gym bag. This was a super nice addition and perfect for any career woman or traveler. This bag would also be a fantastic carryon for those quick trips.

Here are some of the things I loved most about my bag:

Separate laundry pouch for wet clothes!

Vented Shoe Pouch
101-02-01-10T

Straps to hold a yoga mat or towel

Clip for keys or gym key card

Cool little gadget in the shape of their logo to wrap chords, organizing headphones or USB chords for charging iPods or iPhones.

Not one, but TWO bottle holders!! This is great for me since I like to have a water bottle AND a spot for a travel mug, energy drink or protein shake!