fit3 – Reliv Blog

Celebrating National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

A Q&A with Reliv Distributor and Fit3 Champions Challenge Finalist Richard Brandl

By Director of Product Development and Fit3 Trainer Tina Van Horn

In 1983, the President’s Council on Fitness designated May as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. This was done in an effort to promote healthy lifestyles among all Americans and improve our quality of life. The hashtag “#MoveInMay” has been trending, and it’s my hope that people will remember to keep fitness a priority all of the other months of the year as well.

Fitness as a Lifestyle

For some of us, our fitness journey was launched through participation in youth sports. Others turn to fitness later in life for the health benefits, as well as the social connections. Regardless of age or whether you are fueled by competition or more intrinsic incentives, physical activity is a celebration of what our bodies can do.

Meet Richard

Richard Brandl, a self-proclaimed “jock” was a recent runner- up in the men’s division of the Q1 2020 Reliv Champions Challenge. He has been on a journey of physical fitness for more than 40 years. Now at age 60, Richard has no intention of slowing down. A former competitive body builder, Richard is currently training for obstacle course runs and uses Reliv nutrition to give him a competitive edge over his children and the younger competition.

Richard joined the Reliv Champions Challenge to jump start his training for the 2020 race season. He achieved his personal challenge goal to reduce his body fat percentage while maintain lean muscle. He was anticipating breaking some personal records in the upcoming season before his training was derailed by quarantine restrictions.

Modifying the Program

Even though his race plans are currently on hold and he has had to modify his strength training program, Richard is lifting and running and training with the equipment he has at home. Admittedly, he is still driven to be better than the other aging jocks and there is still a smidge of vanity behind his motivation. Ultimately though, he is determined to stay healthy and avoid the chronic health conditions that are in his family’s health history.

Motivation for Decades

Having seen Richard’s pictures from his prime body-building days, I was curious (and maybe a little envious) about how his fitness journey has evolved over the last 40 years and what really keeps pushing him to maintain physical fitness so I threw a few questions his way. His responses certainly resonated with my inner athlete, while validating the principles that the Fit3 program is build upon.

Tina: Fitness has been a part of your life for a very long time. Tell us a little bit about your history and what your fitness routine looks like today?

Richard: I started weightlifting in 1979, and got into bodybuilding in 1980, while I was assigned to my first duty station in the Army. I generally worked out for every day for about two hours, depending on the specific day and routine. I was always trying to progress weight and trained primarily for muscle mass, so cardio was minimal. I was really strict with my diet all of the time to maintain a body fat percentage below 8%. I participated in bodybuilding competitions from 1982 through 1986, but maintained this routine throughout the 80s.

Today my workouts last a maximum of 45 minutes, unless I am specifically training for a rucking event. I focus on circuit type training with minimal rest to be efficient with time. I definitely use more moderate weights and I stay with basic lifts that are multi joint and functional most of the time. Of course, I still like to maintain as much muscle as I can but realize that I’m not 26 anymore. I’m not lifting super heavy weights anymore because that might do more harm than good at my age. For cardio I use high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to get me ready for the obstacle course events

Tina: What are your motivations to keep moving and stay active? How are your motivations different today than 10, 20 or 30 years ago?

Richard: We all have certain level of vanity and I’m no exception. I like to look the part of a fitness professional. I also use the obstacle course runs as a motivator to be more structured and consistent with workouts. I am also motivated to stay healthy and to avoid serious illness. And I still have that competitive fire to be better than the other aging jocks.

Tina: What do you do when you don’t feel motivated?

Richard: When my motivation is low I know that I probably need to take a break from lifting, without feeling guilty. Sometimes I will substitute walks or biking for an active rest or really shorten workouts just to stay in the habit. If all else fails, I try something new, like the Reliv Champions Challenge. I see myself as an ongoing experiment to maintain as much muscle as I can. It’s a game that I play with myself when I have been slacking off.

Tina: Do you every take time off from exercise? How did you get started again?

Richard: Yes, I do take time off. After 40 years, I do experience burnout and to be honest it gets boring. When that happens, I join a class just to do something different and see what the trends are.

To get motivated I look in the mirror and do a “pec check” and decide I look puny and decide to get back to it; vanity again. I start slow, maybe a week of circuits and some cardio to get ready to increase intensity. I also have to get the mind ready as well. I’m also motivated by like class reunions, wedding things that I want to look good for. It’s a mental thing I have about that.

Tina: Tell us a little about your Reliv health story: How did you find Reliv, what have been your results with the products?

Richard: I found Reliv about 7 years ago when I heard about it on a radio ad. I had always used supplements and I was curious as to the results I would get compared to the past. I have certainly seen improvements with sustained energy, sleep, muscle recovery and management of joint discomfort. As I get older and with my profession as a physical therapy assistant, I definitely put more emphasis on joint health and workout recovery.

Supplement technology is so much more advanced today than it was 30 years ago. We have a new understanding of nutrition through the lens of epigenetics. Health issues run in my family and I know that optimal nutrition will benefit me in many ways. I’m committed to doing everything I can to stay healthy and keep my body in top shape.

Tina: What prompted you to join the Fit3 Challenge and what kind of results did you experience?

Richard: Initially my goal was to use the 90-day challenge to jump start my training in January as preparation for obstacle course training in the spring. The first event was supposed be in June, but has been canceled because of the pandemic. I also wanted to see how much body fat I could reduce while maintaining my weight and muscle mass. I also wanted to increase the weight I was lifting without causing joint discomfort. Really, I just to see what I could do at 60 years old.

Throughout the challenge, I lost about 1.8% body fat and my weight was stable. I was lifting heavier weights, too, before the pandemic restrictions took effect. I am happy to report my shoulder and knee discomfort was all but eliminated. I never say eliminated because I just don’t think it’s possible with as much activity I do and my age.

Tina: What advice would you give to someone afraid to take that first step on their fitness journey?

Richard: I suggest finding a trustworthy and practical coach to get you started and keep you accountable. Master the fundamentals that match your goals and commitment level. Ignore all the latest trends that promise rapid results. Instead think long term overall lifestyle habits. Keep it simple and be sensible!

If you are intimidated by a long laundry list of do’s and don’ts, just work on a couple of easier ones. Give yourself a chance to experience success and build your confidence. We live once and I encourage people to enjoy those parties but maintain a level of composure and to be ready to “work” it off. You’ve got to enjoy life and find a balance that works for you.

Healthy Living Tips, Nutrition

10 Healthy Hacks for the Holiday Season

By Director of Product Development & Fit3 Trainer Tina Van Horn

Let’s face it, the next few weeks will be filled with some beautiful moments and memories, but they can definitely derail your fitness goals. Staying healthy during the holiday doesn’t have to be all work and no play, though.

Here are a few of my favorite holiday hacks to make the season a little merrier:

Do This: Go on a walking tour to see the holiday lights.
Not That: Load up in the car and drive around to see the lights while munching on cookies and sipping cocoa.

I love the holiday lights and the best way to really see them is on foot! Slow down and soak up the glow while you get in a few more steps.

Do This: Use a smaller plate at holiday gatherings.
Not That: Pile up a big ol’ platter because your eyes are bigger than your stomach.

This is a great way to trick your brain into thinking that you are eating more than you actually are! And remember when you fill your plate to start with the veggies and protein. That will leave less room for over-doing the starchy carbs. Also, remember that you don’t have to clean your plate! You might have to remind grandma that you are an adult and you CAN have dessert, even if you didn’t eat everything on your plate.

Do This: Unplug and get outside to play.
Not That: Sit on the couch all day watching football and eating leftovers.

Play something! Have fun! Move around and get the kids involved. Shoot some hoops, build a snow fort, go on a winter scavenger hunt, go sledding or even golfing. . . If the weather is a little frightful, head to the bowling alley or roller rink for some old-fashioned fun.

Do This: Volunteer Service
Not That: Binge-watch holiday movies

Chances are you have watched those movies so many times you have them memorized. Why not make new memories by volunteering at the animal shelter or helping an elderly neighbor put up their Christmas decorations. You could also check with your local senior center or assisted living facilities about playing bingo with the residents.

Do This: Plan gatherings around activities
Not That: Focus entirely on the food

Of course, food is a big part of every gathering this time of year, but why not plan an activity while you are planning the menu? When the meal is over, keep your hands busy with a craft project or break out the board games.

Do This: Get up 30 minutes earlier for a quick morning workout
Not That: Skip your evening workout because you are busy or tired from the holiday bustle.

You are busy! Your workouts will take a backseat to EVERYTHING else. Pick two days each week and start the day with a quick sweat session to make sure you get in a few workouts.

Do This: Experiment with healthier holiday recipes
Not That: Dump tons of sugar and fat into your favorite holiday traditions.

Grandma’s recipe may be a family tradition, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try a few healthier swaps to make it a little less naughty. Try cutting back on the sugar and using some applesauce in baked goods. Consider using plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream in your favorite dips and sauces. You might even replace some of the shortening/butter with avocado. Just be sure to test the recipe ahead of time.

Do This: Choose special homemade treats.
Not That: Indulge in store-bought goodies.

With so many amazing treats, this is not the time of year for packaged snacks like chips, cookies, and pastries. They probably aren’t worth it any other time of year either, but definitely not worth it throughout the holidays!

Do This: Do something active every day, even if you only have a few minutes
Not That: Subscribe to the all-or-nothing attitude of working out.

Even if you can’t fit in your regular workout, something is better than nothing! Be flexible with the what, where and when. It may help to focus on “minimizing your inactivity” this time of year. Do pushups while each batch of cookies is baking. Hop up and get in a few squats during commercials or try a Christmas-even dance party.

Do This: Say “No.”
Not That: Allow stress, anxiety, and obligations to over-shadow the holiday magic.

Fit3 is about choices and so is this season. It’s okay to say “no” when things get too hectic. Use your time and energy to do the things that bring you joy and nourish your soul.

Remember to make good choices this holiday season, and your body and spirit will thank you in the New Year! Happy holidays, everyone!

Fitness, My Story

Why Working Out with a Friend is Good for You

By Reliv Bronze Ambassador Joyce Holthaus

One of the things I love about having a fitness friend (or two) is accountability. I may not stick with my workouts on my own but when I know that someone else is counting on me, I am more likely to show up.

A Happy Distraction

I love a good distraction when I’m doing something challenging and when I’m working out in a class or with a friend I get distracted. Before you know it the workout is over and it didn’t feel like it went on forever and would never end.

As a fitness instructor who teaches a newer workout format (Pound), I’ve noticed that many times when people come to my class for the first time, they come with a friend. I think that’s because we are more apt to try something new if we have a friend to do it with us.

A Friendly Challenge

Exercising with a friend pushes me to do my workout to the best of my ability. I like the added challenge of trying to keep up with them and test my own limits.

My last reason for working out with others is because I like to laugh! I find that I laugh a lot more working out when I’m with others. We sing loud to the music playing, laugh at our mistakes (I’m uncoordinated and have balance challenges) and just have fun. Laughing definitely makes the workout less painful and go quicker!

Moving Forward Together

Whether I’m going for a walk, going to the gym or attending a class I love doing it with another person (or more). So go grab a friend (or a few) and get moving together! You’ll challenge each other, encourage each other and make the workout so much more fun!

Whether you’re working out with a friend or solo, check out free Fit3 Workouts online! You can do them on your own schedule and in the comfort of your own home. You can also use the Fit3 Daily Moves calendar, which is new each month, and invite your friend to become an accountability partner! This works great if your friend lives far away, or if you can’t get together in person.

Whatever you choose to do, incorporating a friend into your fitness routine is a win-win!

Healthy Living Tips, Nutrition, Weight Loss

Why Supplement for Weight Loss

By Director of Product Development & Fit3 Trainer Tina Van Horn

According to recent studies, more than 30 percent of Americans eat a diet that falls short of nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin A. It is also estimated that more than 80 percent of Americans have low vitamin D levels. Nine out of 10 people are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids which, among other things, help cool inflammation and control blood sugar levels.

Empty Calories and Malnourishment

According to functional medicine advocate, Dr. Mark Hyman, “Research also shows that since 1970, we have been eating an average of 500 additional calories a day, mostly from high fructose corn syrup and other carbohydrates. These nutrient-poor, calorie-dense, high-carbohydrate foods crowd out healthier choices while creating nutritional deficiencies like omega-3 fats, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin D – negatively affecting our metabolism and our overall health.”

Simply put, Americans have been overfed and undernourished for a very long time. In fact, most obese children and adults are actually malnourished.

Nutrition and Metabolism

While that might sound contradictory, an abundance of calories does not necessarily deliver the right nutrients that your body needs. Actually, the very opposite is true: Overeating can create nutrient deficiencies. You can eat too many calories and too few nutrients. And guess what: You need vitamins and minerals to process all those empty calories. Low levels of nutrients lead to a poorly functioning metabolism.

Dr. Hyman adds, “When deficiencies become the underlying cause of weight loss resistance, I find nutrient-based treatment can often help reset my patients’ metabolisms to balance out body chemistry. Getting the correct amount of nutrients can help you burn fat, balance blood sugar, stabilize hormones and build and maintain muscle mass.”

Optimal Nutrition to the Rescue

Reliv’s core nutrition products are loaded with protein, and more than 25 vitamins, minerals, and super-powered antioxidants to provide comprehensive supplementation for a healthy metabolism and optimal health with one delicious shake per day.

Active is an ideal snack or healthy meal that fuels lean muscle development, increased energy and improves workout recovery with a synergistic combination of proteins, amino acids and key nutrients that also support metabolic health.

If you’re trying to lose weight, exercise alone won’t be enough. Make sure your diet is packed with nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and give your metabolism a jump start by adding Reliv nutrition to the mix. Give your body what it needs to stay healthy as you work toward weight loss goals.

Source: https://drhyman.com/blog/2016/06/02/8-ways-nutrient-deficiencies-cause-weight-loss-resistance/

Healthy Living Tips, Nutrition

How Women’s Nutritional Needs Change

By Director of Product Development & Fit3 Trainer Tina Van Horn

There are so many quotes and social media tags promoting strong women, but the truth is, it takes a lot more than just a hashtag and a motivational quote for women to be authentic #bossbabes. I will be the first to admit that my strength has been built on the support of a tribe of amazing women that never let me give up on myself.

Taking On Roles

Not only does it take a great community to nourish your spirit, but also it takes intentional nutrition to fuel your girl power and help you meet the daily demands of being a mom, daughter, wife, friend, aunt, sister, student, athlete, caregiver, entrepreneur—Wonder Woman.

Wakeup Call

The funny thing is that while we are so busy wearing all of those hats and our own birthdays come and go without much fanfare, we often don’t realize how much our own nutrition needs change with age. We wake up one day, say around age 40, and realize that not only do we need to update our wardrobe but also it may be time to reevaluate some of our lifestyle habits.

Steady Change

It’s pretty obvious that our outward appearance changes with age, so we give up crop tops and skinny jeans. But, you may not be aware of the subtle changes that are happening on the inside. Hello hormones, right? Those sneaky little chemicals are responsible for the obvious and not-so-obvious changes that come without any warning. Lower levels of estrogen obviously affect reproductive health, but they also raise your risk for chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

If that wasn’t enough, it goes to work slowing down our metabolism. Combine that with the age-related loss of lean muscle mass because of waning testosterone levels (yes, ladies, we have testosterone, too) and you have the perfect storm for weight gain, especially around your belly. Women lose about half a pound of lean muscle per year starting around the age of 40. And for the guys who are following along here, you don’t fare much better. Most men will lose about 30% of their muscle mass during their lifetime.

Choose Wisely

Pardon me while I step up on my soapbox and repeat myself very loudly! We naturally lose lean muscle mass as we age. That not only impacts our metabolism but also has a profound effect on our physical strength. You have two choices here:

Ignore and deny the changes, accepting the decline leading to weight gain and loss of functional abilities.
Channel your inner boss and make the nutrition and lifestyle changes you need to stay strong, no matter how many birthdays you have celebrated.

Maintaining and building lean muscle absolutely requires attention to your diet. But that doesn’t mean you have to do anything absurd. Successful aging is still about following those basic diet principles that apply to any age and that are promoted through the Fit3 program:

Choose a variety of vegetables, including dark green, red and orange, beans and peas, starchy and non-starchy.
Eat a variety of fruits.
Include grains in your daily diet. Half of your grains should be whole grains.
Reduce added sugars and avoid saturated fats.
Have protein at every meal/snack. Healthy protein includes lean meat (chicken), seafood, eggs, beans and peas, nuts, seeds, and soy products.
Use healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts.
Supplement daily with a quality core nutrition product to cover nutrient gaps.

Supplemental Material

Since our need for specific nutrients change as we go through different life stages, additional supplementation with targeted solutions is recommended to meet the unique needs for each individual and/or stage of life. During the teen years, girls need more calcium and vitamin D to build strong bones and support growth. Protein, iron, calcium and folic acid are critical for young women. Calcium, iron, B-vitamins and vitamin D are key to good health, stress relief and energy levels in women prior to menopause. After menopause protein, vitamin D, calcium, fiber and anti-oxidants combat age-related physical and cognitive decline.

Nutrition At Every Stage

Reliv’s core nutrition products in combination with the targeted solution formulas allow you to create a customized nutrition program to meet your unique needs during each stage of life, whether you are worried about pimples or wrinkles. Just remember that your daily regimen is likely to change along with your age. So even though 50 is the new 30, the regimen that worked for you when you were 30 might need some refreshing if you are approaching a different decade!

Business, Business Builder Tips, Reliv ambassadors, Uncategorized

How the 80/20 Rule Can Make Your Business Boom

By Social Media Specialist Ashley Maurer

Show of proverbial hands—how many of you are tired of the entrepreneurial posts on Facebook? You know which ones we’re talking about; your News Feed continues to be flooded with these latest entrepreneurs that showcase their wares left and right. We’ve all been there… that point where you’re passionate about your latest venture or discovery. Basically you want everyone and their brother to absorb the knowledge you’ve recently received.

That’s great, but if you’re serious about growing your business, there are some key rules you should follow. The first one being the 80/20 rule.

What’s the 80/20 rule?

Continue reading “How the 80/20 Rule Can Make Your Business Boom” →

Fitness, Healthy Living Tips, Nutrition

Form a Reliv-Vitamin D Friendship

VitaminD-web

By Copywriter Alisa Reale

When it comes to your body getting enough of this vital nutrient, just 15 minutes soaking up the sun (without sunscreen) every day will increase your vitamin D production. And, on days when the sun isn’t shining, one serving of Reliv Now^® or Reliv Classic^® contains 400 IU, which is 100% of your recommended daily value. One scoop daily of Reliv Now^® for Kids contains 50% of the recommended daily value for children.

In other words, vitamin D and Reliv go hand in hand for your overall health.

Putting it in Perspective

Twenty to thirty minutes of sun exposure each day produces approximately 10,000 IU of vitamin D in the skin. Kids and those with darker skin will need more sun than this. In comparison, drinking 6-8 ounces of pasteurized milk gives your body only 100 IU.

Continue reading “Form a Reliv-Vitamin D Friendship” →

Business, Fitness

Reliv Podcast: Building a Business Around the World with Reliv

In this episode of the Tom & Tina show, Executive VP of US Sales Tom Pinnock chats with Jennifer Weaver about how Reliv is helping her reach many more people than she could operating her own fitness studio. You’ll also hear Fit3 Head Coach Tina Van Horn’s interview with Reliv’s biggest fan – four-year-old Joshua. Plus, stick around to hear our latest promotion winners and lots more exciting highlights from Reliv special events!

Listen to the Podcast online.

Fitness, Nutrition, Weight Loss

Reliv Podcast: The Fit3 Team Challenge Is On!

Tom and Tina are back and they’re challenging YOU to join the Fit3 team challenge that kicks off on April 1. Tom and Tina also announce our free Fit Kit and free Conference registration winners! You’ll also hear from two Reliv Distributors who are rocking the Fit3 program and getting incredible fitness and weight loss results!

Listen to the Podcast online.

Business, Fitness, Healthy Living Tips, Nutrition

Reliv Podcast: Helping Americans Get Fit & Feel Great

What can happen in 30 days when you follow the Fit3 program? Amazing things! In this episode of the Tom & Tina show, they’re catching up with Reliv Distributors all across the country who are getting incredible fitness and weight loss results with Fit3. And stay tuned because Tom and Tina will also announce an exciting new Conference promotion, plus give you an update on how to register your Fit3 team for the upcoming team challenge that starts April 1!

Listen to the Podcast online.