It's been a while ..(with a smirk on my face). It seems to be how I start most of my blogs nowadays. Reason why we have been working on and have launched the first phases of "Virtual Annie 108."  (That's where exclusive clients get the juicy information and day to day nutrition, fitness, recipes, personal thoughts, etc from me personally. Inquire at Annie@FitnessStudio108.com.)  All of my 108 blogs always come with such great passion on particular subjects,  so here it goes!

So what's up with 300lbs being the new 200lbs?  Think about it.  How many people do you know now that weigh 300lbs or more? If you can count one, it's far too many! Either people are walking around unaware of their health, have attempted to 'lose weight' and have failed multiple times or plain out don't have a clear understanding of their own abilities or progressive plan to learn, adapt and move forward.  Which ever it is, I can understand their frustrations.  Which brings me to clarify this particular blog before I start this rant of mine.  It's definitely not about the weight.  It's not what I preach, it's not what living a healthy lifestyle is.  I am writing today about 300lbs being the new 200lbs in regards to weight being a serious part indicator of an individuals health and to increase awareness to the already rising epidemic of obesity.  All of my blogs are also to provide guidance and tools to those whom may find this helpful to themselves or for someone they know.  Please feel free to share!

300lbs is the new 200lbs! I remember when weighing in at 200lbs was an indicator for all women and most men (non-athletes) to get their butts in gear! Start moving and get into shape!  Back then it was always about getting your exercise in.  Nutrition ten years ago wasn't such an emphasis nor were the resources readily available.  Now it's about Nutrition and Fitness combined.  The education to living a healthy lifestyle is now out there, but how do you choose?

Because of the over saturation of so called fitness gurus, fad diets and fad training systems, how do you choose? Don't get me wrong, all of these systems work, you just have to find one that works for you for the rest of your life. That's what living and adapting a healthier lifestyle is about.  If you can't seem to come to grips that you have to live the rest of your life "like this" on a particular fitness and nutrition program it's probably not for you and you are setting yourself up for more disappointment and another failed attempt! (The initial 12-18 weeks of a program will be the worst of it, but again, this is a whole lifestyle you are adapting and trying to change!)  It requires a commitment to learn, hard hard work , dedication, and a no excuse attitude and some serious discipline! 

As you can see, it's not about the weight.  But being realistic and why I've chosen to publish this blog, 300lbs is the new 200lbs!  We've got to get you to drop weight regardless of your health issues.  Unless you are 6"4 and an athlete, you MUST drop the weight! It's a huge factor for risk of heart disease, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. And if this doesn't mean anything to you now, it will when you have to start paying ridiculous payments for the medication you'll have to be on just to "live your life."  My main point, please don't wait for something to happen before you do something about it.  9 out of 10 clients that I have consulted and worked with over the past 9 years have came in because  1. Someone died of being "unhealthy".  2.  Doctor just prescribed medication to them and they want to get off.  or 3.  Their child is following their footsteps and now has diabetes. 

It breaks my heart every single time to do these consults.  If we at Studio 108 could have had the opportunity to work with you a year ago and before any of this happened, who knows what the outcome of your health would've been.   I can 100% guarantee you, it probably been much better =)  So let's not wait until we get to 300lbs before we start to realize we need to make a change in our lifestyles.

For more information on programs at Studio 108 or Virtual Annie 108 Healthy Lifestyle Programs, please contact me at Annie@FitnessStudio108. Follow us on Facebook Fitness Studio 108 and Annie Malaythong, and/or twitter @Anniemalaythong. 




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It's that time again! New Year's Resolution time. And most people's list, the number one resolution goes to: "I want to lose weight."  Every year it's the same story.  Well those of you who follow my rare blogs (which I promise will do more often), let's what I call "shine light" on what other GYMS won't tell you.

# 1 In  2006 MSN came out with a study that the number one thing gyms won't tell you is that within the first 90 days of "signing up" YOU WILL FAIL!

* Ask me why? Because you sign up and that's it! You get a number..and access to the gym!  So what's your plan buddy? Is there a clear plan? Do you have a complete understanding of your own abilities? What happens when you have an "off" day? Or who is holding you accountable? Or really, why do you feel after a few weeks you've been busting your.. @?!!? and you still haven't lost weight or seen a difference? Hmmmm....I can take a guess..because it's really about your processing fee and your monthly billing, banking on the fact that eventually you'll fail! Why not invest in a program that teaches, educates, helps empower you to plan, stay motivated, structured and NOT FAIL?
I know why, because...you've tried a program before and you are still left in the same boat a year later? Well, let me help you with that too.  The other thing that gym's won't tell you

# 2 Some trainers don’t know what they’re doing.  If you work out at a gym, chances are you've been hit up by a "personal trainer" who sometimes may or may not look the part and try to see you his/her expertise.  They are there all day and they have "clients" they must know what they are doing? Um..Not necessarily. Trainers need no standard certification, it's really up to the head of the gym or who the department head is.
Look for trainers with credentials from recognized institutions like the American Council on Exercise (ACE), American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) -- preferably with some training in sports medicine or phys ed. Or even if they went to school for it.  A four degree is a lot more credible in my thoughts.  Also, interview your trainers or the program director.  Chances are, if you have a great program director your in great hands.  Feel free to google or research them.  This is an investment in your body and health.  We can't trade our bodies in for another one. So why not get the best of the best? Word of mouth is even sketchy.  But even at that injury is NOT worth it. Once you've been injured..you are injured! I've seen way too many walk in these doors getting injured by "another" trainer at a big gym.  Shake my head on that!

# 3 Don't touch anything- this place is crawling with bacteria


About 80% of all infectious disease is transmitted by both direct and indirect contact, says Philip Tierno, director of clinical microbiology at New York University Medical Center and the author of “The Secret Life of Germs.” That makes the gym, with its sweaty bodies in close proximity, a highly conducive environment for catching everything from athlete’s foot to the flu.

Hello? Can we say Germ-a-phobe! Take action yourself and wash your hands after your finished working out.  And on top of that, rub some anti-bacterial soap/gel all over your body.  And be courteous please, disinfecting wipes are all over the gym for a reason.  Wipe down machines after you use them please.  It's just as much your germs and everyone else's being spread!  We do our very best to steam clean, anti-bacterial all of our yoga mats, boxing bags, equipment and even medicine balls.  But you can do your part too! It's just not worth being sick!


Well since I've completely freaked you out!  ha! Here's to a great 2011!  Make sure you help spread the information. Please don't keep this to yourself.  America is already increasingly getting bigger, unhealthier and down right lazy! By no fault of anyone.  But INFORMATION IS POWERFUL! Sometimes, people really just don't know.  And that's okay! So spread the knowledge! And if you like the blogs! Let me know! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter or here! I'll keep you posted on the others coming soon! Refer a friend, they'll thank you forever =) Happy Holidays!








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Hey! Summer has officially began in Fresno, CA and swimsuit season is here!  You must be thinking, "Great! Time to get in shape!"  I know that the sun gets you thinking...but really? Getting in shape for a season is not what it really should be about.  I totally get it, don't get me wrong! We all want to look good in our swimsuits!  But, wouldn't it be nice to look good and feel good year round?  I mean really, when and where do you start? Most of you will say, "I'm going to start Monday!"  How many Monday's have you started? Or some of you may have every excuse in the book of why you can't start. My question to you is:  "When is it ever a good time to start?"  It's never going to happen if you keep putting it off.  We will always find excuses...it's called LIFE!  I get it... Life Happens!  So let's start your journey NOW.  Start with just 5 minutes a day of activity..and work your self up to more activity! Start with putting one soda down a day until eventually it get's easier.  Summer weight loss?  No such thing...it should be a lifestyle that you are willing to change.  Nothing drastic, no quick fixes..remind yourself you have to work at it everyday no matter what shape or size.  You can't just get your body  functioning at full potential and expect it to stay there without any maintenance!  Bottom Line:  American's are now at a 76% rate of obesity.  Stop pointing the finger and take a look around, including yourself.  How is life for you right now? And do you feel comfortable feeling tired, irritable, low energy and BLAH all day?  It doesn't matter what shape or size you are...it's about getting healthy and feeling good.  Sound like you? Give me a call...or blog with me!  Let me know your concerns, comments, or questions.  Don't take it personal, I'm just truly concerned that if we don't start to change or break our unhealthy habits, our kids have no chance of survival.  Take a look at your children or children around you.  If they are struggling now? How will they be in 5 or 10 years? What kind of example are we providing? We are the adults..we are the parents..we should know better! And even if you "know",,you need to "do!"  Those kids are our future...just take a moment to think about how you can make a difference.  If it starts this summer..GREAT!  Just make sure you keep it a lifestyle! 
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I must say, it's 5am in the morning and the first thing that's on my mind is, "What happened to my blog I just wrote 30 minutes ago? " Follow me at www.FitnessStudio108.com -108 Health and Fitness Blog for upcoming events and information.  For now, please help me and the Run For The Dream Commitee fight the epidemic of childhood obesity each day by educating  your children, parents, friends and family with information I will be constantly blogging about.  It's going to take consistency, commitment and determination on an individual basis to make an IMPACT to help CHANGE the growing problem with America's Youth.   Please share the facts below:

                      Child Obesity Facts at a Glance
  • According to federal data, the prevalence of overweight children in the U.S. has more than doubled among 6- to 11-year-olds, and more than tripled among 12- to 19-year-olds.

  • A 2008 report of California 5th-, 7th- and 9th-grade students found that more than 30 percent of them were overweight and up to 40 percent did not pass a cardiovascular fitness test.

  • An economic analysis for the state health department found that in 2000, physical inactivity, obesity and overweight cost California approximately $21.7 billion, including related medical care and lost productivity.

  • The same analysis estimated that 5 percent improvements in rates of physical activity and healthy weight over a five-year period could save California over $6 billion, and 10 percent improvements could result in about $13 billion in savings.

  • Research published in 2003  estimated the national cost associated with obesity at $78.5 billion.

  • A 2006 report found that per capita consumption of soft drinks in the U.S. increased by 500 percent during the last 50 years, and that the average serving size increased from 6.5 ounces, or 88 calories, in the 1950s to 20 ounces, or 266 calories, today.

  • That report also found that 72 percent of school districts surveyed in California allow fast food and beverage advertising on high school campuses.

  • Only 2 percent of adolescents interviewed in the California Teen Eating and Exercise and Nutrition Survey met all of the dietary recommendations. More than half reported eating no vegetables at all in a typical day.
Compiled by the Dr. Robert C. & Veronica Atkins Center for Weight and Health
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Too Long 10/26/2009
 
It has been way too long since my last blog post and I seriously apologize for my laziness.  So there is quite a bit to catch you guys up on.  Its been practically two whole months.  So where to start...

Well, the Studio is well into its Holiday Challenge, and the monthly challenges continue to become more and more competitive.  As we wind down the year and retire the challenge for awhile we welcome people to come in and try Turkey Burn 2009.  Now you may be asking yourself what does this entail, well my friends this is a 20 day program that leads right up to Thanksgiving day.   Studio 108 will be hosting a daily class beginning this November.  The cost for the program is $120.00 and we expect a full commitment from you guys to stick it out for the whole program.  By participating you feel guilt free on Thanksgiving day as you enjoy all the wonderful goodies that your friends and family have prepared.

In other news, the Studio participated in the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure this past Saturday October 24.  It was a blast and thanks to all those who participated and for everyone who donated to the cause.  We hope to participate in this event annually.  We had a great turnout and we got to sport our Studio 108 pink shirts.  IT WAS AWESOME!!!  While it is now a year away we hope that you come out and support Breast Cancer Awareness with us next year. 

So whats up at 108?  Let me tell you.  We have a couple new faces around the Studio.  Please help us welcome Jannah Departee and Ysmael Olvera.  Each of these new additions bring something special to the team and we are very glad to have them abroad.  Please make them feel welcome. 

Lastly, I just want to shout out to all our wonderful members.  Without you guys, we wouldn't be here and there truly aren't enough words to express how appreciative we are here.  From the Studio 108 crew, thanks and we love you all.  You make working here amazing and we hope that we have been just as helpful in assiting you along the way to
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Update Time 08/27/2009
 
So its been quite sometime since my last post, practically a month.  A lot has happened here at Studio 108 and I'm glad that I'll be able share all the exciting news.

First things first, we must congratulate both Team FUBAR and Diamond Booties.  Each of these amazing teams have won a summer fitness challenge, the former winning in July and the latter just last night.  These teams are filled with great people trying to make a change to an active lifestyle and we at Studio 108 are glad to be part of this change.  If you know the members of either of these teams please be sure to congratulate them because these challenges were no joke and they were put to the test.

On the heels of last nights final summer challenge, Studio 108 is proud to present Holiday Challenge 2009.  We ask the question, WHY PUT ON THE WINTER WEIGHT?   BE PROACTIVE AND START NOW INSTEAD OF WAITING TILL NEW YEAR'S.  Studio 108 will have you looking great for your holiday parties and you won't have to feel guilty about grubbing on all that yummy food on Thanksgiving day.  We will keep you looking fine for the rest of 2009.

In other news, Studio 108 will be featured in a segement on local Fox Affiliate KMPH.  Stay tuned for more information, but look out for Studio 108.  Additionally, if you have paid attention to our banners, you'll have noticed that Studio 108 has undergone some changes to the logo.  Pretty neat if you ask me.  Two eights, one sitting on top of the other. 

Finally, I'd like to take this time to introduce a new member to the Studio 108 team.  His name is Mark Unzueta.  Mark graduated from Fresno State with a degree in Sociology and a minor in Kinesiology .  He later went on to receive his Master's in Exercise Science at Fresno Pacific University.  Mark was also a champion pole vaulter at both the high school level where he won the state championship at Lemoore High in 1998 and went on to win the WAC championships on two occassions. Please be sure to welcome him when you see him around the Studio.  We are excited to have him be part of the 108 family.

 One last thing, Studio 108 would like to shout out all of its members because you guys are AWESOME!!!
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After an exciting weekend that included a lot of fun but a lot of drama I got to thinking of a new topic for the 108 blog.  How can we help turn negative energy into positive energy?  While we all know that exercise is a great way to relieve stress, there are other factors that can contribute to alleviating stress and negative energy and add to the overall emotional and mental health of a person.  Here at Studio 108, we want to make sure that we help our members live a balanced life.  As we all know there is more to fitness than just exercise.  

First things first, when confronted with drama or negative energy take a step back and take a deep breath.  As corny or cliche as this sounds it is important to not react off pure adrenaline.  Often times,  we allow our emotions to get the best of us and we end up doing or saying something that we will ultimately regret.  So take a deep breath and step back and take a look at the big picture. 

Second, never assume anything.  This happens to get people into a lot of trouble because they have a pre-conceived notion and that already puts them at a disadvantage.  I've come to realize that even at the young age of 25, I'm an adult and we handle situations like an adult and not like a teenager.  So go to the source of the issues and be straight up.  This services multiple purposes.  First you allow yourself to get the other side of the story directly from the source as opposed to 2nd hand knowledge.  Secondly, while some people maybe afraid of confrontation, it doesn't hurt to mix it up every now and again.  This is only healthy and better than keeping everything bottled up. 

Thirdly, make sure you have a good support network.  At the very least that one friend you can rely on no matter what.  It is always good to get an outsider's point of view.  Sometimes our judgment gets clouded by our own rage that we need someone to check us even if we are in the right. 

Lastly, just let it go.  It doesn't do anyone any good when you hold on to these grudges.  If you do hold on it only serves to make you an angry and hateful person and no one likes people like that.  Have a woe is me day and allow yourself to grieve, be angry or whatever and then let it go.  As we have all heard, life is too short not to be happy.  So when confronted with negative energy, blow off your steam and then let it go instead of holding on to it.  Follow these steps and you'll live a much more happier, drama free life.

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So as i was sitting here today thinking of reasons why studio 108 is a great place it dawned on me that its because we allow all of our members regardless of gender, race, creed and whatever else to be themselves.  There is no awkward social aspect of our gym that you may find at other places in fresno that will go nameless. 

The point is, Studio 108 aims to provide all our members with a comfortable, home like environment so that they don't feel like they're in a "meat" market.  It is our goal to ensure that all of our members really enjoy the full benefits of our facility which means allowing our staff to improve your quality of life.  And remember here at Studio 108 its about YOU!!!

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This past Saturday, June 27, 2009 three teams competed in Studio 108's first ever summer challenge.  Annie put together a tough challenge consisting of sprints, bear crawls, farmer's walk, push-ups, squats, burpies and jumping jacks.  Put this altogether with 100 degree heat and you have yourself quite competition.  The competitors arrived at 10:00am at Woodward Park and started with warm-up if you could call it that.  Then it was onto the competition where teams went head to head.  When the dust cleared one team remained.  The victorious team was Team F@$% Yeah.  Please congratulate these girls as they have only been training for one month.  With two months more to go expect the competition and the challenges to heat up.  The next competition is set for Saturday July 25, 2009 at 8:00am, here at the Studio.  With the final competition date set for August 29 with the Time and Site TBD. 

Also stay tuned for pictures from the first challenge.

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Morning Madness 06/24/2009
 

New class--Morning Madness starting July 1, 2009

MWF at 5am

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