Starting January 6th, morning classes are moving indoors for 2014!

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 6:30 AM classes will be held on the 10th floor studio of 244 West 54 Street. 

$20/ individual class
$200/ unlimited indoor and outdoor classes for one month

The 25% off promotions for the new year are:

• Three Month Commitment: $450/ unlimited classes for 3 months 
  
• Bring a Friend (FitCamp Newbie): If you bring a friend who has NEVER taken a Fitcamp class and both of you commit to one month of unlimited classes each pays $150 for unlimited classes for one month 

Thanks to most athletic wear companies and fitness lifestyle blogs, many people think that being outfitted for running in the cold requires uber expensive gear.  Here's to breaking out of that mindset.  Running is accessible all year round and it's not just for people with superhuman grit.  If you are running outdoors, here are my subzero Celsius running essentials for a cozy run starting from the top. 

• Head wear with ear coverage. The cheap fleecy neck gator below came with the 2012 Turkey Trot race entry.  Your ears (and fingers) will be the first to freeze so headbands and skull caps are all good as long as they fit snugly. Price: Free-ish (or $35 which included race and post race food accommodations).
• Base layer.  Any wicking long sleeve shirt that provides some neck coverage.  Price: $15-80 (depending on how fashionable you want to be.  Honestly, if the shirt wicks, it gets the job done)
• Synthetic jacket (A layer to block the wind and unzip if you get too hot).  Don't be shy to wear a neon track jacket from the early 90's.  The resistance from the jacket's bagginess  will make you a better runner! Price: $40-250
• Gloves.  Synthetic gloves. Price: $1.99 The ones pictured below were free.  Certain races will give out gloves included in the entry fee.
• Thermal pants or tights.  Some people's legs get uncannily hot and run in shorts. Price varies.  Consider how susceptible you are to wind burn. 
• Wool crew length socks. I recommend these over the ankles ones.  Crew length will keep you much warmer and prevent freezing slush from making contact with your skin.
• Sneakers with good traction.  If you are running in snow/ slush, the spikier the soles, the better. 

Lastly, a reflective version of any one or all of the above helps.  Happy and safe winter running!

Are you body-aware in the gym?  Are you using that cardio or weight machine properly or just flopping around like a fish to execute the motion?  Some gym-goers are totally unaware of what they are doing- satisfied solely by the accomplishment of having hauled themselves to the gym in the first place. Just like with every other aspect of life, be MINDFUL and be PRESENT.  

• Focus attention on what muscles you are working and push that muscle to fatigue.  
• Consider how the exercise is supposed to feel.  If you need help, consult an experienced trainer. 
  

Don't be that elliptical user who flings his or her body wildly as if he or she were a marionette under the control of the elliptical puppeteer.

The best way to make the most out of a workout is by going in with a game plan (and a backup).  For those of you who know me well recognize this fitness mantra of mine.  You might be thinking, 'Okay, easy to say but harder to do'.  Here are two ways that having a game plan and starting with a good mindset can help you complete a satisfying workout.

• Want to start running in the cold?  Mentally prepare yourself and carefully plan your attire.  It's better to over dress and consider how to adjust once your body warms up.  Imagine running with what you plan to wear.   Consider road conditions.  Snow and slush covering the roads?  Make sure you have gore-tex trail shoes and wool socks. Accounting for all of these factors will prevent you from feeling discouraged.  It only takes one or two tries to master prepping for winter outdoor activities.  Before you know it, you will relish the crisp air, holiday scenery, and winter serenity.
  
• If you are strength training, create a workout and then visualize your plan in action.  Prepare for the unexpected.  E.g. Someone is occupying equipment you need?  Have an alternative ready.  If you're feeling unusual strain in one part of your body, try a set of exercises to work another muscle group.