What kind of coach could you be???

What is a Beachbody Coach?

The coach network was created to offer people a way to stay accountable and have support to completing the workout programs that they were purchasing off of the informercials. We help the people to complete those programs and we help them get FIT! 

You do not have to be personal trainers 

You do not need to be a nutritionist 

You do not need a degree in exercise physiology 

You don't need to be in great shape or have abs

ANYONE CAN BECOME A COACH!

Coaching can be whatever you want it to be...

-Discount Coach: A coach just to get 25% off all of the amazing Beachbody products - no requirements to sell anything. Your Shakeology each month keeps you active. You just enjoy the benefit of a discount.

-Hobby coach (Part Time): A coach who signs up for the discount and does Beachbody on the side for some additional income or to pay for their products and programs.

-Business Builder: These coaches are the ones (like myself) who see Beachbody as their career and passion. They want to earn a significant income and want to push the limit of what this business opportunity can provide. 

What kind of coach would you be?? I'm looking for 3 people who would like to join my team {Insanely Fit} as coaches. Whether you just want a discount on your Shakeology or you want to make Beachbody your career, I WANT YOU!! 

Message me at kyle.jama@yahoo.com or just leave me a comment "interested" and I'll send you some more information. 

Insanely Grateful {to the Max}

I have been a sappy mess today! It's the same feeling I had after my first half marathon and after I completed the Dopey Challenge. It's that sense that I completed something that at one point in time I thought was impossible. 

The changes in my body are subtle compared to the changes to my mind and to my spirit. When I finished Dopey in January 2014, I was burned out! I had done something that few other people could say that had done and my body didn't want to do it again. I was depressed and I didn't know what I was going to do. I couldn't continue running crazy amounts of miles for crazy amounts of hours per week. My family needed my time and I felt guilty giving that time to myself. Beachbody and Shaun T literally saved me! That sound dramatic even to me but it is so true. I had never done an at home program (except for my treadmill 😬) and I had never consistently cross trained. I had gotten a challenge pack with FocusT25 and it sat in that box for at least six months until that day when I just didn't want to run anymore but I needed to do something. I'm giving you a little of my backstory so please bear with me. 

FocusT25 gave me results that I had never seen before and muscles in my legs that I didn't even know I needed to help me run faster. It also showed me that there was another way. 

Fast forward to the release of Insanity Max:30. The name insanity scared the crap out of me! I had seen the original version and my mind said "oh no - NOT ME!" but this was a shorter version right? It was only 30 minutes and I was "allowed" to take breaks. I had learned focus and now I needed to gain my power. So, I ordered it and couldn't wait to get started. 

From Day 1, Shaun tells you that he believes in you and that you CAN do it and somewhere around day 10 you start believing that you just might be able to do this! You keep pushing play, you drink your Shakeology, and you SEE your body transforming. I told a friend of mine that I was extremely glad that I had the photos to see my transformation because that stupid scale DID NOT MOVE and for the first time in my life it doesn't matter. That number that I used to define myself by for so long, it's just that- a number. That number doesn't show how many push-ups I can do or how I am able to do tuck jumps, it doesn't show the confidence I have gained or the joy I have for sharing my story of hope with others. That number means nothing! 

I was able to finish month 1 feeling on top of the world and then I pushed play on month 2! To say that I felt a bit defeated can't even express my feelings enough. The entire time Shaun was beating my body down though he was lifting my spirit up. He kept telling me that I could do it and you know what... I DID! I might have "maxed out" but that was the whole point right? Learning to see your limits and trying to overcome them. 

I will probably never meet Shaun but I want to be him for someone. I want to be able to help people believe that even if it's hard, they can get through. He didn't just give me a six pack (which I won't be giving back) but he gave me peace. He gave me strength and the courage to step out of hiding in the background. I couldn't say thank you enough to him because as cheesy as it sounds, my life isn't the same anymore.

I think that we all are trying to live as best as we can and for those 30 minutes every day, I could just be me- Jama, not a mom or a wife, I could be the athlete that I always knew I could be but that I never knew I was.

If you are scared to fail... don't be. You will fail, it's a guarantee but through the failure you will see who you we always meant to be! So thank you Shaun for showing me who I could become and for always believing in me- even though we may never meet you have changed me and I am eternally grateful! 

What a difference 6 weeks can make

That girl in week 1, she had no idea how much she would GROW. She looks scared- ha! She was scared. She wanted to see changes so badly and she wanted to be able to be a good example to as many people as she could be. 

That girl in week 4, she thought she was doing awesome. She had seen some results, she had stuck to the plan, and was pretty proud of herself.

The girl in week 6, she has been humbled. She has experienced some freaking HARD workouts. She has faced her fear of group exercise classes. She has learned that she is more than a number on a scale. She can see the light at the end of the tunnel. 2 more weeks and she will be an Insanity Max:30 graduate!!! She CAN push through and Max Out! She KNOWS that things she never thought she wanted are possible. 

When I started doing Beachbody programs (T25 to be exact), I wanted to be able to tone up a little bit, and I did. Max:30 has taken my toning to an entirely new level. It has taken it to a level that I didn't even know I wanted. I didn't know that finding abs would push me to want to see what other muscles were there. I didn't know that I could actually enjoy (gasp!) push ups! I didn't know I was capable of some of these things.

I am not posting this to make anyone feel badly. I am posting and sharing myself like this because I want you to see the possibilities. If you want to be a runner, go outside and run (even if it's just 100 yards) you have to start somewhere. If you want to learn about nutrition, start researching!!! All the answers you need are available- all you have to do is find the one that you are looking for.

2 more weeks and then I will be starting a new program, I will be committing to the 21 day fix Extreme program for 3 weeks and most likely I will then start another round of Insanity Max. If you are wanting some direction...ask me!!! I want to help you start your journey. It won't be the exact same as mine but it will be an adventure that I would love to go on with you :)

Coach Basics- Day 5 (part 2)

Day 5 (2 of 2) – Let’s talk PEOPLE:
BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WHAT DO I SAY TO PEOPLE?
When you meet new people here’s an easy way to remember how to connect and build strong relationships— always follow the F.O.R.M. process.
F = Family: Does your prospect have kids, siblings, a spouse, etc
O = Occupation: What does your prospect do for a living?
R = Recreation: What does your prospect do for fun? Do they play sports? Are they in a club? Dothey go to the beach or go camping with their family?
M = Message: After you get to know your new friend by asking questions about their family, occupation, and recreation you can tailor your invitation for them to get their free Team Beachbody membership and join your general health and fitness Facebook page or your nextChallenge Group. We all know where it can go from there! So, get out there and F.O.R.M.
Goals: Make it a goal to F.O.R.M. with at least two new people via social media today. You can do this simply by having a conversation with a fellow member of a group that you belong to. Remember F.O.R.M.ing is all about sincerely wanting to get to know people, so always be sincerein your conversation and intent. Make it your goal the next time you are there to F.O.R.M. with at least one new person.
EXPANDING YOUR NETWORK:
One of the things I hear OVER and OVER as a Coach that has been in the business for over 3 years is - I just don't know enough people! WRONG. And if you have that mentality, then you willnot put the effort to find people to join you. Consider that MANY of YOU were not my personal friends before you and I met - we met through Facebook, my fan page, a referral and the list goeson and on! RIGHT?!?
Oh, and I guess the 430853408345 people on Social Media today aren't enough! I am being sarcastic but it is TRUE! My sister and I have independently built two 6-figure incomes with theSAME circle of friends. If you think there aren't enough people - think again. You just need to find them. HERE IS HOW:
By now, you have already told your family and friends that you are a Coach. Now what? Are you wondering how to keep the momentum going? Our most successful Coaches are always looking for more people to help and making new friends wherever their lives take them, as well as on theinternet. Always keep your eyes and ears open and don’t be afraid to just talk to people! Here are some great ways to expand your list:
1. Social Media – We’re doing it right now. You’ve gothundreds, possibly thousands of friends on Facebook, Google+™, LinkedIn®, Pinterest—plus they have friends you could friend!
TIP: Go to your friend's pages (THAT ARE NOT COACHES) and go to their friends list. You might find old friends from Elementary, Junior High School, etc. Send them friend requests. Do about 5 per day. Do not go crazy doing this as you can be thrown in Facebook jail. Skim YOUR friends list and make the day of 3 people each day. What do I mean? Private message 3 people each day simply to put a smile on their face.
"Hey Monica! I saw your daughter did awesome on her ballet performance. Just wanted to congratulate you. That is so great! I hope you have a fantastic day my friend!"
That is it. It will probably get a simple, un-intentional conversation going. Remember, NEVER assume it will end in a sale immediately. That is not the point. The point is to expand your Network and develop relationships. You never know if Monica has a friend that has mentioned she needs to lose weight. Now you are on Monica's mind.
2. Wear & Share – Wear Beachbody gear with pride (T-shirts, hats, etc.). Keep your ears open, and you’ll start to hear people mention that they’ve heard of, or done “that program.”
3. Are you a parent? Do your kids play sports? Are your kids in school? Are your kids in clubs? Every child has parents; connect with them!
4. Are you a member of any networking groups? If you’re not, join some.
5. Do you buy groceries or do any kind of shopping? People are everywhere; be friendly, SMILE, and people will want to talk to you!

Coach Basics- Day 5 (part 1)

Day 5 (1 of 2) – Let’s talk PEOPLE:
The contact list is probably one of the MOST important tools you will have as a Beachbody Coach. And crazy enough, like 5% of all coaches have one! Why is that? I think it's because most people pre-judge everyone they know and won't write any names down (i.e. "Susie willnever workout at home." "Juan will never eat healthy." "Maria is into that other shake so she will never drink Shakeology.") AHHHHH, DO NOT DO THIS! Everyone and their MOMMA goes down on that list. Pre-judging is BAD BAD BAD. Do not make decisions for people without talking to them FIRST (or A LOT).
Contact List: http://tbbcoa.ch/ContactList_2013
Video Assignment: Watch the How to Use the Contact List video. Are you using the Contact List effectively? This is a great way to keep track of the friends you have been inviting so you can seewhere they are in the process.
http://youtu.be/yJkZdJ3VlWE
Print off the Contact List and take the next 5 minutes to add 30 names to the list. Be sure to keep all your Contacts on one Contact List.

Coach Basics- Day 4 (part 2)

Day 4(Part 2 of 2) 
Challenge Groups: A good coach starts a Challenge Group, a GREAT Coach starts a Challenge Groups and converts all of its participants to Coaches because they had such a GREAT experience. They keep things fresh, engaging and EXCITING. They also personal message their participants to check in with them on a more personal level. A good coach, does one group every couple of months. Or gives up because no one joined. BOOOO! A great coach, starts at least 2 Challenge Groups a month and even if they “fail” THEY KEEP GOING. You need to gain traction with challenge groups. Keep pushing! A good coach will post once about the start of a new group. A great coach will be persistent and consistent about sharing the new group, will personally invite people to join, will start multiple conversations with people on a daily basis and will team up with another coach if needed to make the group a success! Are you worried about leading your own Challenge Group? Don’t be! Beachbody has youcovered! They created Challenge Group Guides for every program! They are all located in the Coach Online Office and all you do is copy and paste the daily posts into your private Facebook group page. They are located in your COO, Sales and Marketing, Beachbody Challenge. Also, the FITNESS JUNKIES always have coaches running challenge groups. If you want, you could always team up with other coaches to help make your Challenge Group ROCK!!

Coach Basics-Day 4 (part 1)

Day 4(Part 1 of 2) – The Good Coach v. The GREAT COACH:
Have you ever really considered that you are actually a coach? What does it mean to sponsor someone and what is the definition of a coach? A great coach leads by building relationships with people. They recognize the potential in others and inspire them to achieve. They affirm, encourage, and have a positive attitude with those they coach. When you hear about an athlete being recruited by a coach, you are always impressed. That is exactly what sponsorship is. When you sponsor someone to join your Team, you are saying that they are awesome and that you want to include them. It is a great feeling! Have any of you ever had a great coach in your past? What made them great? Who inspires you as a great Team Beachbody Coach?
Go into your Coach Online Office and take a look at the 2014 Elite 10 Leaderboard found under theIncentives & Rewards tab.
Choose 5 Coaches from the list and start following them on social media. The best advice I ever received was "Be the Coach that you would want Coaching YOU." Or "Be the Coach you would want to have sponsored YOU." Think about that. What does that mean to you?
Customer Service is KEY:This is a PEOPLE BUSINESS! Check out the “Johnny the Bagger” video and share your ideas for improving your own customer service. (3 minutes)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9hdy-fNyYw&feature=youtu.be

Coach Basics- Day 3

DAY 3 
At Beachbody® we know the secret to success! It’s simple: follow the 3 Vital Behaviors EVERY DAY.
1. INVITE. INVITE. INVITE. Invite to be a friend first. Invite to your general health Facebook or free Fit Club page. Invite to your Challenge Group. All it takes is talking to people with the intent of helping them. Use the 5-Step Invitation Guide (see files tab in the group for the guide) and follow the 5 steps to invite to a Challenge Group. The 5-Step Invitation Guide gives you a proven step-by-step process to invite and fill your Challenge Group spots.
2. Be Proof the Products Work. You can’t expect someone to join a Challenge Group if you’re not in one yourself. You don’t have to have an amazing transformation story; you just need to be on your journey. What Challenge Group are you in?
3. Personal Development. To improve your business you need to improve yourself. Get started with reading personal development book of your choice for at least 10 minutes each day. We suggest starting with The Compound Effect.

DAY 3 (Part 2 of 2) – Social Media: 
I wanted to address using Facebook, Instagram, etc. for your business at the front end because it is so critically important. When I started my business, I didn't realize how important learning the skill of posting would impact my business. I do now. And I learn from other leaders how it is effectively done.
Rule 1: 80/20 - 80% of your daily post will continue to be about what you LOVE. Your kids, your food, your outings, your adventures, your quirkiness, your love of interesting articles, your love of motivational quotes, etc.
The other 20% will be about Beachbody. A selfie after your workout, drinking your Shakeology, announcing your next Challenge Group, an interesting article about nutrition, a MOVE of the DAY, etc.
The point is to continue being YOU, just a better version of YOU. If you vomit Beachbody all day long, people will get turned off and stop following you. You need to ADD VALUE to their lives. Always ask yourself, what will this post accomplish?
1. Did I teach something?
2. Did I inspire someone?
3. Does this post make people laugh?
4. Did I position the Coaching Opportunity in a way that would make ME want to join?
Rule2: DO NOT POST YOUR WEBSITES PUBLICLY. Yes, I said it. Think about this, have YOU ever bought something from Facebook from a post with a website. I but the answer is NO. So don't do it. That screams I AM A SALESPERSON! Sending someone your website should be done privately and ONLY AFTER they have committed to joining.
Rule 3: CLEAR and CONCISE. And this means your pictures too. Do not post blurry pictures! Use appropriate apps to edit photos, etc. They must be eye-catching for people to appreciate it. Remember this is a business and sloppiness is a turn off.
Rule 4: Facts TELL, Stories SELL. This is a people business NOT a product business. It is ok to explain a new product in a post BUT the majority of your posts should tell a STORY. GET PERSONAL. How did this opportunity change your life, how did that program change your challengers LIFE? That is what will attract people to you and the business.
BAD POST: I am a Beachbody Coach. I am looking for 5 people to join my P90X Challenge Group. To order, go to www.beachbodycoach.com/blabla
GREAT POST: Just three weeks ago, my friend Sean started T25 and drinking Shakeology daily. I have seen him work so hard in my group - he's even been busy traveling for work and took his DVDs with him! That, my friends, is someone on a MISSION! Today, he has lost 15 pounds andis FULL of ENERGY. Seriously, I am so proud of him and this incredible accomplishment. I am certain this is a life-long change for him and his family. Help me congratulate him and give me a VIRTUAL HIGH FIVE!
There are many, many lessons we can give on this topic but think of this as a CRASH COURSE. Follow the Beachbody leaders as well as leaders on our team to learn how to do this. This is a skill that takes practice and it starts TODAY.

Coach Basics- Day 2

DAY 2 – WHY:
So why did you decide to be a Coach? What part of being a Team Beachbody Coach are you passionate about? You know, your deep meaningful reason... Just like in fitness Challenge Groups, the people who can connect with their emotional why never quit! Let us know the reason why you will not quit! 
P.S. - Your WHY is not "to help people." It is personal, it is about YOU, it is what will make YOU and your family happy and fulfilled. What do YOU WANT?

BTW—you can post a video response if you want to as well!

Coach Basics- Day 1

DAY 1 – HOUSEKEEPING:

Today is ALL about Housekeeping and BASIC set up! This video will guide you through everything you need to know about setting up your profile, and personalizing your Beachbody websites! Take time to watch the video, follow along, and complete your profile and edit your personal websites

Comment below “done” when completed! Then we'll check out your personalized websites!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nb_3ekcjXzc&feature=youtu.be

Common Questions about Beachbody Coaching

I started as a Beachbody Coach because I fell in love with Shakeology! It all starts with an invitation to try a challenge.
#1 I don't want to drink a shake and I don't need a meal replacement.
TRY IT! Give yourself 30 days to see how your body responds. It is a meal replacement, so if you are making a food budget, add it in to that as one of your daily meals. Even though we may try to eat healthy, we all are lacking nutrients. Shakeology is your daily vitamins and healthiest meal of your day. You most likely will see a decrease in craving sweets, you will have increased energy because your body is receiving the nutrients it needs to operate at your maximum capacity. Shakeology is a health shake and you start to see results between 2 and 3 weeks after consistent consumption.
#2 Marketing
This is your business and you can run it however you want! How cool is that?? If you are a face to face person and you would like to go and talk to people all day long, you can do that. You don't have to do this business on social media, although it does make many aspects of this business much easier because you can reach so many more people and you have so many options. The sky is endless, there is no right or wrong way and whatever way you choose, we as a team will help you find the way to be successful. If you were to look at some of the Top Coaches in this business, they all run their businesses in ways that work for them.
#3 Unsupportive Spouse
That sometimes happens. They just don't know what it really means. The more people that you help and the more relationships you form, the more good suggestions you can give for the right workouts and products that will help them succeed will be how your network grows. If it was a scam, you would be signing people up to just sign them up, there would be no transactions of goods and services. You have to have a good customer base. You find good customers by sharing your experience. So, if you are just starting your journey, we will teach you how to share your experiences. We will walk you through each step together.

We have an awesome team to support you to make this WORK!!!!

Max Out- Month 2

Week 5 of Insanity Max:30 is in the books and I have to say, it may have been the hardest week of workouts that I have EVER done. They are completely doable, but your mind can't win!!!! You must not give up. Shaun T talks about how he is scared in some of the workouts.. DON'T LET HIM GET INTO YOUR HEAD!!!!
One of the things I really liked about Month 2, is that it isn't just a harder Month 1. There are new moves (that I had never done before), there are CRAZY push up sequences, and through every since move, if you perform them with purpose you are sculpting those abs!
In Max Out Cardio, you have to move quick but you also have to pay attention. A lot of the time in month one, I just focused on what I was doing and never looked up. This isn't the case for month 2. I had to focus on and watch the moves because I had never done them.

Max Out Power should just be called Beat Down Day! By far the HARDEST workout I have EVER done. The moves are 45 seconds on 15 seconds off unlike month one 20 seconds and 10 seconds. Shaun says, "Now you have found the power - you have to let your power take over - not an option to not max out- now you let the power from within take over'" and it's so true! I wanted to actually turn off the workout and give up and I have never felt that way before. It pushes your most and mind to the limit and then gives you a little shove over into feeling a bit defeated. You have to go down to be able to get back up though right??

Max Sweat Intervals helps you redeem yourself after Max Out Power. So, after being beat down, you will do Max Sweat and feel like you can conquer the world. Don't get me wrong, you are going to max out, and much sooner than you did during month one. Don't hold back and don't be afraid. I was feeling very humbled after Max Power but as I went through Max Sweat, my confidence in the fact that I COULD do this came back in full force. I was also super sore by this workout and I was feeling muscles I didn't even know existed!

Max Strength would have to be the exact opposite of how I felt during max power. By the end you and the floor will be best friends because it should just be called make them do push ups. I have never done so many variations of push ups and up until I started T25 almost a year ago, I had never even done one push up! I modify them but I am strong enough (from month one) to push myself through. I can visibly see a difference in my arms and that is all due to my BFF the push up.

By Friday, you are ready for the week to be done. You are sore and tired but then it's time for Friday Night Fight Round 2. Out of month one, Friday fight was my favorite one, so it wasn't a huge surprise that it is my favorite in Month 2 either. I like knowing I only have to do that exercise one time and being able to give it everything I have. Shaun says, "It's about going beyond your max! You will max out but because you got this far - you know how to go more! Pull it together and you fight!! Do what you need to do to get through." He has a way of pushing you to go just a little bit farther than you really thought you could go.

Week 5 was mentally challenging. You have started to master month one and feel really confident and then you fail (a lot). I am so happy that I can do it in my home where no one can see my uncoordinated movements and my near face plants. I'm really starting to see more definition in my abs (hallelujah). I've never had abs before, so being able to see some has been a highlight for me. I used to be afraid of gaining muscle, but the truth is, I would rather be strong with some muscles than weak. My shoulders and arms are definitely getting defined (thank you push ups) and I think the exercises this week are really helping to define my inner thighs (at least that is what hurts the most). The soreness is worth being comfortable in my skin and knowing that no matter what he throws at me, I can push though it.

Are you curious yet??? I will have round 2 of Insanity Max:30 starting February 9. Join me, you will not regret it!

Humbled- Max Out Power

You think you know... You think you push.. And then you find out what pushing really is! I am humbled, that's the only way to describe how I feel a after today's max out power. I have never once contemplated quiting. Not when running for 4+ hours but after 7 minutes of this workout, I seriously contemplated turning it off. I was tired from the previous day, and around minute 7 my legs were about ready to give out on me! I was so proud of myself last week for getting to 30 minutes and I couldn't get past 7!

In these moments you really start to question your ability to push through. I looked at my computer and was so happy when he finally said it was time for push-ups. Me, I was so happy to sit down and do push-ups. These workouts are meant to test your strength and you will! No matter what I will NOT give up. I absolutely LOVE the ab segment! When I first started doing at home workouts, we would get to the ab portion and they would say tighten your abs and I would think " what are they talking about, I don't have any". You do though, even if they are buried right now, they are in there just waiting for you to do the work to set them free!!

It takes WORK!

I know you don't want to hear that because it requires action and time but if you really want to see some changes you have to do some work. I'm not telling you to go to the gym every day and spend 3 hours lifting weights and then another hour running on the treadmill, because who really has time to do all that? I sure don't. But if you consistently put in the time DAILY... Your body and your mind will start to change. Changing the way you think is way harder than changing the way your body handles the stress you place upon it. Muscle matters and I never truly understood that before. I just thought that if I was thin enough then I would look ok. I have to say that once I started to gain muscle (not weight!) that my mindset towards myself began to change. Bring on tomorrow because I survived today!

Do you really want to change the world???

This weekend I had to opportunity to attend one of Beachbody's regional events called Super Saturday. These events are held all over the country and I was lucky enough that I had one 10 minutes from my house.
I was very nervous because I was going by myself and situations where I have to social can be awkward for me.
I pulled up and gave myself a little pep talk and walked inside. I think when you try new things, you really just have to keep telling yourself what you want to believe, so I just kept saying- you are confident!! Ha!
I was really looking forward to the training video and hearing about all the new products! But when it started and people started sharing their stories, I was overwhelmed with emotions!!
I know that I can come across sometimes as intimidating and I have really been working on that. I am introverted and I don't want people to think I don't like them just because I'm shy at first!
So.... The people who spoke were FREAKING AMAZING!!!! .

I  didn't become a coach to make millions - I know that in the future that is a very real possibility but that isn't why I chose to become a coach. If it's your reason then that is awesome but it wasn't mine. I became a coach to help people feel like they aren't alone. We moved away from everything and everyone I knew and for all intensive purposes I was alone. I had my family (hubs and kids) but I felt like I was on Mars when we moved here. Part of it was definitely my perception of the people who live here and part was my unfair bias but I was not happy and I felt like no one could possibly understand. When I found started FocusT25! I went through it by myself. I didn't know that there were challenge groups to help keep me accountable and encourage me when I didn't "want to" workout. I didn't know there were groups where I could learn about how to eat clean and fuel my body with better options than Diet Coke and Cheddar popcorn (true story!) I felt like I had to do everything on my own and since I didn't know anyone, I was lonely (by my choice). So, when I decided to finally take the plunge and become a Beachbody coach it was for that reason... To help people know that there is at least one person who really wanted to help them- not because you are a sale but because you are a soul!! I'm sharing this today because I don't want anyone to feel like they have to do this alone! Change is hard! I'm learning how to "eat clean" and it's HARD!! The easy route of prepackaged meals and drive thrus are what I have known and that's on me! I have been too lazy to learn about choosing what to eat and when there are so many easier ways is a fall back for me but with change there is struggle. Don't take the easy way!!! Just know you aren't alone in your struggles and that there are people (perfectly good strangers even) who truly care about you :) I choose to change daily! Every day I wake up and focus on the things that I know I need to be better at. Somedays go better than others and there are plenty of days where I still feel alone but it's one of the reasons I LOVE social media so much! Anytime I start feeling like no one understands, I click on my Instagram and comment on someone else's picture- I offer some type of motivation or just a note of encouragement - even though I don't "know" them, I relate to them and by doing that I don't feel so alone:) We all have a bigger purpose and I don't want anyone to feel like they aren't important or that they don't matter. Even though we may have never meet in person- you matter to me! I know that I can't change the world, but I can sure try to :)

It's All about that Shake(ology)

The Best Shakeology Recipe is the easy shakeology recipe!  Beachbody has done all the work for you.  They have truly created "Nutrition Simplified" by packing in the nutritional value.

If you didn’t know…I didn’t always love Shakeology. My hubs wanted to try it and we bought a bag. He loved it and I was stuck at, “we are spending how much per month on one bag of a protein shake?” I didn’t get it but I also wasn’t looking at the overall benefits of Shakeology either. I was uninformed about what it actually was and just looking at it as a protein shake, which lets be honest IT IS NOT!!! I had been drinking meal replacement shakes from a different company because I wanted something to help my nutrition and I ran out one day. So of course I went over to our chocolate bag of Shakeology, grabbed a room temperature bottle of water, dumped a scoop in, shook it up, and GAGGED!! One sip and I had judged it awful, poured the rest down the drain and said never again.

I think about that day often now that I have been drinking Shakeology consistently for a YEAR!! I guess what really sticks out to me is that there are SO MANY options and I wish that it had come with some better instructions. If you make chicken wrong would you want to eat it every day? Nope!

The same applies to Shakeology. First you have to recognize what it truly is and that it’s a MEAL REPLACEMENT!! Shakeology is a very nutrient-dense shake that can be used for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You’d have to eat a whole lot of fruits and vegetables to equal the nutrition in a single glass of Shakeology—and you probably couldn’t do it for less than 170 calories. Shakeology makes it very easy to cut your calories without substantially cutting down your daily volume of nutrients needed. Truth be told, the majority of people are WAY MORE nutrient deficient, than they are protein deficient. This is the reason why I love Shakeiology so much! I am not the best eater (which I am learning about every day!) so Shakeology was an easy way for me to get my nutrients. I love Shakeology because I am a busy parent and it is a quick and convenient way to get complete nutrition.  It supplies me with the energy I need to help keep up with the kids and my hectic lifestyle.  It is also easier to make and tastier than a salad, and it is an excellent way to eat healthy when eating a full meal is not possible.  If you don't like eating fruits and vegetables then this is a great way to get all the benefits of eating a full bowl of fruits and vegetables without having to actually eat them.

The other issue that you have to truly understand is the #1 reason that people don’t want to try Shakeology , love it, and then want to continue drinking it month after month and that is …the price!! That is beacause you are still looking at Shakeology as something that isn’t of value to you. Most people will agree that they would spend an average of $3 to $7 on a HEALTHY nutritious meal. I know most store-bought salads cost even more than that, and don’t contain nearly the dense concentration of nutrients. But on average, I think we can all agree healthy meals run between $3 and $7. Shakeology, at $4.33 per shake, comes in on the LOW END of average. (You can make Shakeology into a breakfast or lunch that you’d be buying anyway.) Not only are you spending less than you normally would, you’re also getting vital nutrients your body needs, that you just can’t get from your run-of-the-mill salad, plus the normal range of vitamins and minerals. So you can replace your VITAMINS, too. Sure, you may need a specific vitamin, based on your conditions, geography, or age—but in general, Shakeology will provide you with a solid base of your whole-food nutrients.

When was the last time you went to your grocery store and bought THIRTY meals all at once? Not often!!Typically, I’m guessing, you buy a few days’ worth each time. When you buy a bulk bag of Shakeology, you are buying 30 of your shakes up-front. That means you’ll spend less money at the grocery store. For the price, I cannot duplicate its vast quality of ingredients and nutrients.

Now let’s get into my tips for HOW to make your Shake!!!

Here are a few tips that I wish I had known the first time I ever tried Shakeology…

1. Do not mix with water!!!!! You can, if you are wanting to be hardcore, but if you want to enjoy the taste, I recommend mixing it with Almond or Coconut Milk!!!
2. ADD ice!!!! Shakeology definitely tastes better when it’s cold J
3. BLEND IT!!!! 99% of the time I use my blender to mix up my Shakeology. Even if it’s just milk, shakeology and Ice, using a blender brings it ALL together. If you use a Shaker cup, add milk, shakeology, then Ice and shake WELL!!
4. ADD IN’s!!! Shakeology is a MEAL Replacement, not a Protein Shake! My go to shake is 8 -10 oz. Almond Milk, Chocolate Shakeology, 1 tbs. PB2 (powdered peanut butter) and half a banana. I drink this combo at least 5 times a week! The ingredients are ALWAYS in my home and I could not go a day without.
5. BE Creative!!! Although I am a chocolate fan, I have found that trying different recipes makes drinking my shake every day more enjoyable. You have to find a recipe that YOU like!!!!

If you find a recipe that works for you…stick with it!! I’m not saying don’t experiment because I do that from time to time but I have had some epic fails along the way and you don’t want to be pouring your shakes down the drain every time you don’t like them.

Have I given you enough reasons to give it a try??? If so here are some ways that you can do so.

Ways to try Shakeology:

1. Message me for a sample of Shakeology. This is a perfect way to try the flavors and figure out which you like best.
2. Join one of my 7 day Shakeology Challenges:

It’s a way to try Shakeology for a week without making any commitments. It is $30 and with that you get 7 days of Shakeology (I suggest the combo pack so you can try all the flavors and see which you like best) and a premium Shaker Cup (for shakes on the go!).

3. You can sign up for Shakeology HD (home direct) which gives your free shipping and automatically ships your Shakes to you each month.  You can cancel at any time with no questions asked.  There is also a 30 day money back bottom of the bag guarantee.  If for any reason you do not like the shake you can return the empty bag for a full refund.
4. You can purchase Shakeology in the bag or 24 individual serving sizes, both are the same price.  With individual serving sizes you can have an assortment of Greenberry and Chocolate, Chocolate and Vanilla, and now Tropical Strawberry and Vegan Chocolate.

What do you get for your purchase of Shakeology HD?

Your first Shakeology order not only comes with a month's supply of shakeology.

You receive a calendar of 30 different ways to make each flavor.

You receive free shipping when you sign up for Home Direct.

You not only get a shake but you get a nutrient rich meal that you do not have to worry about creating yourself! How great is that?!?!

Shakeology really has changed my life! I know that sounds dramatic but it’s true. Not only has it helped to increase my nutrients but it has led me to a career as a Beachbody Coach. It has helped me to find a passion to help others and gave me a purpose greater than just myself. I have met some of my best friends through one little shake and it fulfilled a need in me to be part of a community of like-mided people, who encouraged me and made me feel a part of something. I needed that and I didn't even know it at the time I signed up.

So how can it change your life?? The opportunity is at your fingertips...all you have to do it reach out and grab it!

Progress

When you make changes in your life and you  continue to make them even though you may not be able to see them... They are there. Last summer, I decided to commit to finishing every Beachbody program that I started... I did 2 rounds of Focus T25, I did the 21 day fix and then I was stuck. I love Shaun T, his energy makes me want to MOVE, so when Insanity Max:30 was announced I was excited (nervous, but excited). I had seen my husband do Insanity and knew that it was just a bit too intense for me.
Max 30 came, I started and it was HARD! Every single day from the first time I pushed play was hard. I worked out through Christmas, I worked out through traveling, I worked out 30 minutes a day. When you see yourself every day, you don't see the small changes. You just do the work. Was my nutrition on point- NO! I wasn't ready then to portion it out (which is highly important because nutri to run for HOURS with no results, although when you are running for that long you "feel" like you should be eating all the food as a reward which isn't the case either. I digress...
I was feeling blue about having to not attend the Goofy Challenge and I decided to go get my hair done... Always a spirit lifter right? I knew that I would have to put on my jeans (I never wear them!). I go to a salon where it's really not acceptable to arrive in your gym clothes and I was nervous to put my jeans on. I knew that I have gained some muscle and I was so scared that they were going to be tight... And they weren't. 
NOT EVEN CLOSE!
My jeans were loose and not just a little. I didn't see the change but the change is apparent by those crazy jeans. The amazing thing is that the scale has not moved. You know I have issues with the scale and I dread getting on them... If it's too low then I worry that I am getting too extreme, if it's too high I want to just punish myself and limit my food and it lies... It really does.

But the jeans,thy don't lie!

I am constantly shocked that my body can do the things I am forcing it to do. That my waistline is more toned and defined after 30 DAYS (which I never would have thought possible after 3 kids!) That I am stronger and leaner than I ever have been without hurting myself in the process!
Change is happening but maybe you are just too close to the situation to see it!
I am proud of the hard work I have put in over the last 30 days. I begin the month 2 workouts on Monday (and yes I am nervous!) but I know I will make it through, I will give it my all and if I can do it... So can YOU!