🎄 5 Tips to Manage Holiday Parties This Year

Sweet friends,

The holiday season brings so many wonderful things to our lives! We get to spend time with our families and friends and celebrate the birth of our Savior. There’s so much to get excited about!

However, with these holiday celebrations comes holiday parties where we are surrounded by endless amounts of food! Often, we are surrounded by such homemade goodness that we can’t help but over eat, and then we feel guilty afterwards! Let’s not feel that way this holiday season!

Below are FIVE tips to help you navigate holiday parties this Christmas season!

1. Drink a large glass of water before the party.

Drinking water can help you feel full for longer. Drink 1-2 glasses of water before you go to the party to help eliminate mindless snacking. You can also carry a glass of water with you at the party to give you something to hold and drink without reaching for unhealthy snacks!

2. Keep moving!

Go to the party with the mindset that the party is for fellowship and spending quality time with friends or family and isn’t about food! Make your way around the room talking and enjoying others’ company, and you won’t think about the treats!

Make sure you are exercising regularly! Stay on track with your exercise goals during the holiday season. Block off workout times in your schedule and don’t miss! When you are exercising regularly, you won’t want to undo all of the hard work that you have put in!

3. Eat a high-protein snack before the party.

A high-protein snack can help you curb your cravings and help you be full before you arrive at the party! After eating your snack, you will be full and satisfied and will be less likely to mindlessly snack while you are there. Often, people eat less in preparation of a big party to try to “save calories”, but this usually leads to overeating foods that will not satisfy or fuel your body in the long run! Good examples of high-protein snacks are:

• 1/4 cup of nuts

• 1/2 cup of trail mix

• 1 cheese stick

• 1 hard boiled egg

• 1/2 cup of cooked edamame

• Kind bars

• Turkey roll-ups

• Rice cake layered with nut butter and chopped walnuts

  4. Chew sugar free gum.

  Chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to stop those sugar cravings! It will give you something to chew, but will save you the calories! Instead of reaching for that piece of chocolate or sweet treat, pop in a piece of sugar free gum!

  5. Bring a healthy snack or treat!

  Bring something to the party that you know you can munch on without feeling guilty. Your friends will thank you, too! Some great options for healthy dishes are:

• Lean meat and cheese trays

• Fruit or vegetable trays

• Homemade trail mix

• One of our TransFit winter recipes!

• Strawberry Edamame Salad
  

Don’t forget about our Favorite Things Luncheon this Thursday, December 13th from 12-1 in the TransFit studio! It will be a wonderful time of fellowship with our TransFit community! Think of something that you LOVE (valued around $15). Bring ONE of your favorite items. We will draw names and everyone will go home with a NEW FAVORITE THING!

The cost of attendance is $12 to cover lunch from The Pine. Sign up on our app at the link below under “Special Events.”

Thank you to everyone that has brought in a gift for our Giving Tree! There are a few ornaments still left on our tree if you would like to participate. Just bring your wrapped gift, put it under our Giving Tree by Friday, December 14th.

We also invite you to come help deliver these gifts to Downtown Academy next Tuesday from 12-1! We will be meeting at the studio at 11:30 a.m. and then going to Downtown Academy! You can also meet us at Downtown Academy!

We only have two more Tuesdays in 2018! Can you believe it?! We want to encourage you to finish out 2018 strong and reach your goals and dreams! Come join us in the studio for a session! Over the next few weeks, please sign-up for sessions in advance as we are operating on a holiday schedule. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We can’t wait to see you soon!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

5 Foods to Lose Body Fat & Nourish Your Body!

Sweet friends,

This month we want to encourage you to nourish your mind, body and spirit. We can nourish our bodies by making healthy food choices and giving our body the super foods and nutrients that it needs to thrive. We wanted to share with you 5 of our favorite foods to help you loose body fat and trim excess fiscal fat from your abdominals!

5 Foods to Help Trim Belly Fat

Green Tea

Green tea is one of the healthiest beverages for the body and is filled with antioxidants and plant-based compounds that can help improve your overall health. Green tea is also a great caffeine source, but it does not contain near as much as a normal cup of coffee. Some studies even show that green tea may help boost your metabolic rate and increase fat burning! Tulsi green tea is one of our favorites, and we encourage you to have a cup with breakfast or your afternoon snack this week!

Walnuts

Walnuts are the super nut! These nuts provide healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals— and that’s just the beginning of what they can do for your health! Walnuts can also help reduce inflammation and support a healthy gut. Because they are calorie-dense, eating walnuts can even help control your appetite, making you feel full quicker and longer! Try our Walnut Crusted Pork Tenderloin recipe for dinner this week!

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are one of the best side dishes for you, and they are amazing on top of a salad or with chicken for the fall! They are packed full of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which fight against aging and disease. Sweet potatoes also keep you full longer and can help you burn fat, while also keeping your sugar levels from spiking! Check out our recipe for Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes and try it with your family this week!

Kale

This low calorie food is packed with nutrients that you need in your body every day! Kale is an excellent source of Vitamin C and is one of the world’s best sources of Vitamin K, which is crucial for blood clotting. Kale is also low calorie, but provides a bulk that will make you feel full! This food is a WIN! Try our recipe for a Chopped Kale Salad with Butternut Squash and Chickpeas.

Salmon

Salmon is an excellent source of protein, which is a vital component of weight loss. This food is particularly high in omega-3s, which help reduce inflammation and reduce hormones in the body. Add salmon to the top of your salad or try our recipes for Blackened Salmon Tacos or Spinach Stuffed Baked Salmon.

We would like to share a meal plan to help guide your meals through this holiday season! Did you know we have FREE MEAL PLANS available on our website. Download them HERE!

We also have a Fall Meal Plan that you can purchase for only $9.99! This meal plan was created by our registered dietitians, Kaeti Shurling and Katie Woodall and includes four weeks of meal plans, recipes and grocery lists. Download it at the link below!

It’s almost time for our Holiday Extravaganza! For those of you that have never participated, this is your year! The goal is to maintain your weight through the holiday season! The cost is $20 to participate. Weigh-ins will begin the week of November 12-16.

If you maintain your weight, you get your entry money back in January when you come back to weigh-in! If you gain weight, your money stays in the bucket! At the end of the holiday season, we will re-weigh and the biggest loser gets to keep ALL of the leftover money! The top-five finishers will also receive a gift!

Join us in the studio for a session! We have TWO yoga classes to help you nourish your mind body and spirit. Come join our new instructor, Emily Deitz on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. or Caroline on Fridays at 9:30 a.m.

This 55-minute yoga session will increase flexibility and core strength. The postures are connected through the breath for a transformative and balancing effect. The yoga session will burn fat, increase endurance, flexibility and strength. The session will inspire you physically and mentally to live transformed in mind, body and spirit.

Sign up for the session on our app at the link below!

Please let us know how we can encourage you and help you reach your goals! Please email us if you have any questions or if you would like to schedule a one-on-one session or an appointment with one of our nutritionists at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Curb Your Sugar Cravings With These 5 Tips!

Sweet friends,

We are halfway through our TransFive 5-Day No Sugar Challenge! You’re almost there, and we are so proud of you! In the challenge, we are reviving our body, mind and spirit by eliminating sugar! The eBook includes a meal plan, recipes, tips, a getting started guide, daily inspiration and more! It’s not too late to join the challenge! Download our FREE eBook below!

As we know, eating refined and processed sugar can have a negative impact on your health! As we reach the halfway point of our TransFive No Sugar Challenge this week, you may be starting to crave sugar and being tempted to reach for that pack of candy! Be STRONG! Here are three tips to satisfy your sweet tooth and curb those sugar cravings this week!

1. Brush your teeth

   Brushing your teeth can help stop those sugar cravings! Not only will you have fresh breath, but you won’t want to eat any sugar after brushing!

   2. Drink hot tea

   Drinking hot tea can not only help you curb your sugar cravings, but it can also help fill you up. If you’re reaching for sugar for a boost of energy, grab some green tea! You can also try mint tea, lemon balm tea or carob tea.

   3. Chew sugar-free gum

   Chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to stop those sugar cravings! Step out of your comfort zone, and break that habit! Instead of reaching for that piece of chocolate or sweet treat after dinner, pop in a piece of sugar free gum!

   4. Reach for fruit

   Grab some fruit when you are tempted by sugar cravings! Sugar is a source of natural sugar and will keep you from reaching for processed sugar while also giving your great fiber and nutrients. You can eat raw fruits, put fruits in your morning smoothie or infuse your water by adding a few berries to stop cravings!

   We have great smoothie recipes in our TransFive No Sugar Challenge eBook! It’s not too late to join us! Download it HERE.

   5. Go for a walk

   When you start craving sugar, go for a walk around the neighborhood or get a change of scenery to keep your mind off the sugar that you are craving. Not only will this curb your sugar craving, but it will help you reach your daily goal of exercise! It’s a win-win!

You can do this! You’ve already made it halfway through the challenge, and we are so proud of you! Please reach out to us to tell us how you are doing with the challenge at transfitathens@gmail.com and use the hashtag #TransFit5 on social media!

If you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment with one of our registered dietitians, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. You can also sign up for sessions on our app HERE and our website HERE!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Are you ready for a Nutrition Challenge You CAN do this week?

Good morning, sweet friends,

 Today is the day! You are ready for a new nutrition challenge! This month, we are focusing on COMMITTING each day to our whole body health plan! Let's focus this week how we can commit to our health by making some changes with our nutrition! 

YOUR CHALLENGE THIS WEEK: ADD IN HIGH QUALITY PROTEIN SNACKS!

One new way you could COMMIT this week is to increase the amount of high-quality protein that you include in your daily nutrition plan! Protein is an essential food for repairing muscle tissue and keeping you feeling full longer. Replace processed foods with quality protein and you will feel the difference. A great way to incorporate this essential protein in your diet is to include it in the snacks that you eat throughout the day! High protein snacks (15-20  grams) should be consumed 30-45 minutes after workouts for maximum muscle building and repair benefits. They can also be consumed as a snack throughout the day to fight cravings and to help manage weight. Below are some suggestions of snacks that you can take on the go during your busy schedule. COMMIT to incorporating a few of these snacks in your diet this week!

Here are some of our dietitian, Kaeti Shurling's favorites:

• 1/4 cup of nuts (cashews are a great option!)
• 1/2 cup of trail mix
• 1 cheese stick
• 4 oz of low fat cottage cheese
• 1 hard boiled egg
• 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt with slivered almonds
• 1/2 cup of cooked Edamame
• Koia drinks
• 1/2 cup of chickpeas
• 1/2 cup of black beans
• 3 oz of tuna
• Kind Bars (under 5 grams of sugar)
• 2 tbsp of peanut butter
• Turkey roll-ups
• Rice cake layered with nut butter and chopped walnuts

Here is a homemade protein bar that you can make this week and also store to take with you on the go!

Homemade Protein Bar (Approximately 180-220 calories, 15-20g protein)

Ingredients:

• 2 & 1/2 cups whole grain oats
• 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
• 4 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Line a 8x8 dish with wax paper

2. Mix all ingredients by hand

3. Press mixture down into dish, using a spatula to flatten

4. Freeze for 30 minutes. Cut into six or eight bars. Refrigerate. Enjoy!

Try out these great high protein snacks and COMMIT to your healthy lifestyle with a delicious, higher protein nutrition plan!

High Protein Trail Mix

• 1 cup lightly salted almonds
• 1 cup lightly salted walnuts
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 cup dried cranberries or blueberries
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (leave chocolate chips out if you will be outdoors) 
• 1 tsp. sea salt
• 1 tsp. cinnamon

**For nut allergies, replace the almonds and walnuts with pumpkin seeds & sunflower seeds!

You can always toast the nuts in the oven at 450 degrees for 3-5 minutes first to bring out a rich flavor then toss with favorite mix-ins.

Let the family measure and mix and have fun playing with your favorite combinations. Place 1/4 cup into snack bags and keep in your snack basket! 

We are excited to see you this week to help you reach your goals!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

COMMIT to Your Nutrition- FREE Back to School Meal Plan!

Hey, sweet friends!

What an awesome start to August this week in the studio! We are so excited you are COMMITTING to your whole body health this August! Let's reset, recharge, and stay focused to make August our best month, yet!

A lot of you have young ones starting back to school over the next couple weeks, and just like you all, we are ready to get back into our routine of healthy lunches and dinners! Sometimes, though, the thought of planning out meals might seem overwhelming to you. That’s why we’re going to help you jump back into this school year one step ahead! We want to serve you, amazing friend! 

TransFit Nutrition Consultant, Katie Woodall & Dietitian Kaeti Shurling are sharing a full week's meal plan with you (on the TRANSFORM section of the website or click HERE), so your meals and workouts are already planned out for you and your family! Wahoo! A week’s worth of family-friendly meals with recipes are laid out for you to help make this transition back to school a smooth one! We’re even giving you a shopping list so you can breeze your way through the grocery aisles!

A new school year is a great time to get your kids to try some new healthy foods! But let’s not get crazy — remember we have to ease them into it, right? Let’s be real. Most kids could eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich every single day (or is that just mine?) Give yourself and your kiddos some grace but set a goal to some new healthier recipes this month.  We are here to help any way you need to get your family back on track.

In addition to our meal plan, we want to provide 5 packing items that you should include in your child's lunch for school! These five items allow you to ensure that your child is getting in their nutrition needs for the day! 

1. Protein. 

The protein doesn’t have to come from meat! Sure you can roll up a couple slices of deli meat, like roast beef, turkey, chicken or ham, but try a variety of protein sources — like a cheese stick (or shredded cheese as my child prefers!), yogurt (just look for low-sugar kinds and resist any artificial sweeteners). You can use different nuts or nut butter (great for dipping, too), beans, hummus or hard-boiled eggs.

2. Whole grains.

Buy whole grains when you can, like whole wheat bread or pasta. Substitute two slices of bread with a whole grain wrap. Add in some whole grain crackers for dipping. You can also try the 1/2 and 1/2 trick for a while to help transition your kids to whole wheat!

3. Colorful fruits and vegetables.

This is a great way to add in fiber and antioxidants. Whole pieces of fruit are great — apples, bananas, oranges, or get creative with the mini fruit kabobs using grapes and berries. Slice up veggies, like a bright red bell pepper or celery. Along with carrots, these vegetables are great for dipping so include a container with a yogurt-based Ranch dressing, fresh salsa, hummus or even guacamole!

4. Sweet and salty snacks. 

Mix up a healthy trail mix, or include raw nuts, dried fruits or pretzels. You can freeze tubes of yogurt for a cool treat. Enlist your child’s help over the weekend to prepare homemade energy balls or granola bars for their lunches, too.

5. Hydration.

Pack a mini-bottled water or an organic low-fat milk. When you can, avoid fruit juices. Stick to whole fruit options in their lunchbox to avoid any added sugars.

Use this lunchbox prep time as a chance to connect with your children! Take time to ask them about school or their friendships. Encourage them, and of course, use this opportunity to talk about why we choose healthy, nutritious foods!

And remember, you’re setting an example for your family! These little ones are watching you — taking a little extra time to prepare for the week can be a way of showing your family that you’re honoring your body with healthy foods at lunchtime, too!

Reflect on our verse for this month: Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” Just like your workouts, commit to planning healthy lunches and dinner for your family. We believe in YOU! If you would like to meet with our Nutrition Consultants or Registered Dietitian to help you with a plan for feeling your best please email us!

In addition, our middle school (5-8th grade sessions and our 4th grade sessions) will begin THIS Wednesday! We hope that your school year will be off to a great start! We are praying for each of you as the school year begins! 

Love & Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Tips to Make The Second Half of 2018 Your Best!

Clean slate, yes, it's Sunday! Let today be a fresh start for YOU! You can make the 2nd half of 2018 your best! Today, shift your thoughts... focus on being thankful for the body that you have and set a new goal (or two) to ensure you are treating your body with care and respect! Write this goal down, put the goal as a reminder in your phone, and tell a friend- that is how you make your goals become reality! 

One new goal could be to increase the amount of high-quality protein that you include in your daily nutrition plan!  Protein is an essential food for repairing muscle tissue,  building and toning muscles, and for keeping you feeling full for longer. High protein snacks should be consumed after 30-45 minutes after workouts for maximum muscle building and repair benefits and should be consumed as a snacks during the day to fight cravings and help manage weight.

Here are some of our Dietitian, Kaeti Shurling's,  favorites:

• 1 hard-boiled egg- 8g

• 1/2 cup chickpeas- 18g

• 1/2 cup cashews- 16g

• 3 oz of tuna- 25g

Try out these great high protein snacks and start your healthy lifestyle with a delicious, higher protein nutrition plan!

Here is a high protein healthy popsicle to try this week! 

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup – strawberries

• 1 1/4 cup – coconut water

• 1 teaspoon – honey

• 4 teaspoon – chia seeds

• 1 1/2 cup pieces – mango

Directions:
Puree strawberries (fresh or frozen) with half of the coconut water in a blender or food processor. Taste the mixture and blend in honey to desired sweetness, if needed. Stir in 2 teaspoons of chia seeds. Set aside. Puree mango (fresh or frozen) with the other half of the coconut water in a blender or food processor. Taste the mixture and blend in honey to desired sweetness, if needed. Stir in the remaining 2 teaspoons of chia seeds. Alternately pour each fruit mixture (for a marbled look) into popsicle molds and freeze until set. Makes 10 (3 ounces) popsicles. If you have an Ice Pop Maker let it freeze for 45 minutes and then add wooden sticks so they stay in place better and the lid will come off easier.

Additionally, here is one of our favorite workouts you can try today! Add this workout to your week and then enjoy a high protein popsicle after! Let's do it, ladies! 

We hope that this second half of 2018 is your best! We believe in YOU! Let us know what your goals are for the second half of the year. We want to encourage you, as you prepare for a great rest of 2018! If you would like to schedule a 1-1 appointment for nutrition or personal training, you can purchase a package on our FREE app or website, or you can email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Healthy Gut = Healthy YOU!

So many great questions about probiotics this month. Gut health is one important part of whole body health. Did you know most diseases begin in the gut? 90% of our cells are bacteria cells and 10% are human cells. Thousands of species of bacteria all have different functions. Some of the bacteria digest foods, some produce different vitamins and hormones, some respond to medicines and infections, some control your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and some control your risk for obesity or diabetes. These bacteria control almost every process in your body! 

Our brain and gut are connected through the enteric nervous system. The belly and brain are connected physically and biochemically. What does this really mean? The types of bacteria in our gut controls the way we think, behave, and feel.  Your gut health is vitally important in your transformation journey. 

Let's make a new goal this month to maintain a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. There are many reasons how the delicate balance of a healthy gut is compromised. We eat diets of sugar, processed foods, and alcohol. We consume antibiotics and have too much stress. These areas create an imbalance causing the bad bacteria to shift from a single cell of yeast into a mycelial fungus. Thus, causing gut diseases and other problems in our bodies.

So what can we do to keep it balanced and try to regain gut health?

• Cutting back on sugar, processed foods, antibiotics, NSAIDS, steroids, and synthetic hormones

• Cut back on stress. Stress is harmful to our health and is actually the second cause of unbalanced gut flora. Take more deep breathes and use exercise to de-stress.

• Read food labels to decrease added sugar and processed foods

• Eat whole, live, raw foods

• Supplement with a quality probiotic (kombucha, supplement, fermented foods)

The colon (gut) has at least 500 different kinds of bacteria! One of the bacteria is the bifidobacteria making up the majority of the "good" bacteria that is in your gut. This good bacteria is benefited by the intake of probiotics.

Probiotics can help your digestive tract and help take up space in your stomach that could be taken over by a less healthful product or organism. Probiotics can be found in foods that have live and active cultures. A great source of probiotics is found in yogurt, kefir, Kombucha, and sauerkraut.

It is important to choose yogurt products that are made with milk from cows that eat organic food. Additionally, try to choose yogurt or kefir that does not have any added sugars, colors, or flavors that have been added by heat after that was fermented. The best way to know if you are choosing yogurt that has the probiotics you need is to see if it has the LAC seal, standing for Live and Active Cultures. We encourage you to add more probiotics into your diet and then help the probiotics by eating more fiber, too!

Fiber is important for overall health, but it is found that around 90% of Americans do not meet the recommendation for dietary fiber. Women should work to eat 25 grams per day and studies encourage you to have 40-50 grams of fiber, in order to have optimal gut health. Adding fiber and probiotics to your diet can help the number of probiotics in your colon, this will improve your health.

Here are some fiber-filled foods you can add to your diet! 

• Avocado- 1/2 cup serving size with 8 grams of fiber

• Raspberries- 1 cup serving size with 8 grams of fiber

• Lentils, cooked- 1 cup serving size with 15.6 grams of fiber

• Black beans, cooked- 1 cup serving size with 15 grams of fiber

In addition to your dietary needs, it is important to focus on your exercise, time spent resting, and the amount of sleep you get each night. As you know, exercise is such an important part of whole body health. Regular exercise can help you have a greater diversity of bacteria in your stomach. Also, we forget that rest is needed for whole body health. Stress can add to the amount of adrenalin your body gives off and therefore speeds up everything occurring in your body. As a result, adrenalin can cause your food to pass through too quickly and can lead to a negative impact on your stomach's health. Take time each day to check in with your exercise and rest balance. 

Here are some great recipes that will add in more probiotics and fiber to your meals! 

Flora-Flourishing Meal in a Jar

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

• 1/2 cup plain Kefir

• 1 teaspoon real maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons whole grain oats

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus additional for sprinkling

• 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries

• 1 tablespoon sliced almonds or nut of choice

In a mason jar or bowl, combine yogurt, Kefir, syrup, oats, chia seeds, and ground cinnamon. Let stand 5 minutes.  Top with frozen mixed berries in jar or layer the mixture. Sprinkle with cinnamon and top with almonds. Refrigerate overnight or up to two days. 

Farro & Black Bean Salad

• 1 cup of farro, cooked according to package directions

• 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed

• 1/2 cup corn or edamame, (thawed if frozen)

• 1 roasted red bell pepper (from jar), diced

• 2 large garlic cloves, peeled and minced (about 3/4 teaspoon)

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

• 1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar

• 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir gently to combine! Enjoy! 

Try to add fiber and probiotics to your diet this week. You can do it! If you would like to meet with our nutrition consultant, Katie Woodall, or Registered Dietitian, Kaeti Shurling please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com to set up a 1-1, 30-minute session or 55-minute. This 1-1 session will allow you to talk about you specific nutrition, meal planning, give you new recipes to try, and a plan to succeed! Let's finish this week strong! Let us know if you have any questions! 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit 

Happy 4th of July! 🇺🇸

Happy 4th of July! ☀️

This month we are challenging you to finish this summer strong! Below we have a pushup challenge we would love for you to be apart of with us! Download the calendar and start crossing off each day. We are stronger together! If you haven’t downloaded our Summer Transformation Challenge, it’s not too late!! Scroll down and download it and get started today. We’re here to help and encourage you throughout your summer transformation! This month we’re going to dive deeper in everything we do and focus on the fact that by grace we have saved through faith! That’s when we have freedom & true peace! On the 4th we are especially thankful for the freedom of our country! We live in a place where freedom is offered day after day because of the sacrifice of others. We are so thankful for the men & women who serve our country bravely and with honor. Let's lift up these amazing hero's in prayer as we celebrate this 4th of July. 

Client Spotlight: The Dean Family🦋⁣

We are so proud of our amazing clients Kelli, Kendall, and Avery Dean for all their hard work and dedication! 💪🏻 What a treat to inspire all these amazing young women! They have been working out strong together virtually almost daily. The other day in HIIT, we could tell they loved the boxing round!!⁣ 🥊 Two of Kelli’s favorite exercises are curtsey lunges and deadlifts! If you’ve been in TransFit over the past 2 months or so, then you know we love these exercises too! They are great if you want to target your glutes and thighs, and there are so many different variations!

⠀⁣Below we’ve attached one of her favorite recipes for the family!! This recipe will get you and your family in the spirit to celebrate the 4th of July!! 🎆

FoodieCrush’s Greek Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce

Ingredients

For the Turkey Burgers:

• 1 pound ground turkey

• ½ cup fresh spinach leaves , chopped

• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes , chopped

• 1/4 cup red onion , minced

• ¼ cup feta cheese , crumbled

• 2 cloves garlic , pressed or minced

• 1 egg , whisked

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 4 soft whole-wheat hamburger buns

• Bibb lettuce leaves

• Sliced red onion

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• ½ cucumber , halved with skin and seeds removed

• 3/4 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt

• 2 cloves garlic , pressed or minced

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill , minced

• Pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion and feta. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, egg, olive oil and dried oregano and kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper then pour over the turkey and mix with your hands to combine.

2. Divide the burger mixture into 4 portions and mold into patties. Place on a cutting board or plate dividing the patties with parchment paper and refrigerated for 30 minutes up to overnight. You could also individually freeze the patties at this point for up to 3 months.

3. Prepare the tzatziki sauce by grating the cucumber. Gather the cucumber together and place in a paper towel and press the water out of the shredded cucumber and place in a medium size bowl. Add the yogurt, garlic, red wine vinegar, fresh dill, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 3 days.

4. Heat a non-stick grill pan over medium heat and spray well with cooking spray.

5. Place the turkey burgers on the grill, cover with an upside down sheet pan or lid and cook for about 5 minutes per side. Be sure to watch the burgers and monitor your heat as the burgers will brown quickly if the heat is too high.

6. Slather buns with tzatziki sauce and garnish with lettuce leaves and red onion. Or serve bunless in the bibb lettuce leaves.

Quick 4th of July HIIT Workout for the Whole Family!

If you need our TransFit staff to be praying for YOU, please email us your prayer requests. We are a family and want you to feel loved and supported.

We look forward to "seeing" you virtually from HOME OR in the studio!   

Check out our website for more blogs, inspiration, recipes, workouts, and more!

Let us know how we can serve you! Email us at transfitathens@gmail.com if you have any questions or want to schedule a one-on-one for workout or prayer.

Blessings,
 

Caroline and Team TransFit

How to Live Transformed on Vacation! 5 Tips You Can Take ANYWHERE!

Friends, it’s sweet summertime! The kids are out of school and that much-anticipated summer vacation has finally arrived! Each of you has worked so hard in the studio toward your summer fitness goals. Thank you for giving your best! 

Just because you’re traveling and away from your normal daily routine, doesn’t mean you must compromise good nutrition and exercise! You’ve put in too many hours of strength training and cardio sessions to throw it all away! Right?!

You want to feel your best before, during and after your vacation! We want to help you enjoy your vacation and come home feeling relaxed and refreshed — instead of feeling guilty or like you’ve blown your transformation goals!

Just like with everyday life, preparation is key! Planning ahead can help you avoid any slip-ups with your goals and your whole body transformation! So let us help you with 5 simple strategies for Living Transformed when you’re on vacation!

1. Pack smart!

First things first, grab your workout gear! Throw your tennis shoes and exercise clothes into your suitcase. Take your tennis racket if courts will be available. Bring a resistance band or an ankle band! 

Pack your favorite healthy snacks. Lots of fruit, nuts and protein bars. Apples and oranges are easy to throw into your carry-on luggage or purse. Pick up a box of the 100-calorie packs of raw nuts. On-the-go packs of roasted edamame can also be found at your local grocery store. And protein bars are an easy snack to pack — just remember to check the nutrition labels and pick bars with 5 grams or less of sugar!

Also, consider packing a shaker bottle and a few servings of protein powder. You can portion out individual servings in snack-sized Ziplock bags. Or Blender Bottle has a shaker bottle that comes with separate containers for storing protein powder.

2. Research ahead of time!

Get online and see what’s close to your hotel or condo. Is there a grocery store nearby? What healthy, local restaurants are close? There are app delivery services that will deliver groceries to your condo where-ever you are! 

Also, if you’re staying in a hotel, find out if there’s a kitchenette or mini-fridge available in your room.  Ask for a mini fridge! Does the facility have a fitness center available?

3. Hydrate!

So many of us neglect to hydrate our bodies while traveling even though dehydration is very common during trips. Pack extra water bottles (in a cooler if there’s space) or take your favorite water bottle to refill along the way. Drink water as soon as you get up in the morning, and when you sit down at each meal, drink a large glass of water first! You can still get in your 80oz daily on vacation! 

4. Make smart choices when dining out!

Most importantly, choose restaurants that offer healthy options that support your lifestyle! So many restaurants post their menus online now so you can look it up before you dine. Then you’re prepared to order when you arrive and aren’t tempted with less healthy options. You can also check the entree on MY FITNESS PAL! The food journaling app! 

Don’t be afraid to ask for a healthier option or to customize your meal. Most restaurants are used to this now and don’t mind accommodating your needs!

Choose seafood, chicken or another lean meat option and order them steamed, broiled, grilled or roasted. If fried is your only option on the menu, remember don’t be afraid to ask for another option!

Order your potato baked, boiled or roasted instead of fried! And ask to leave off the butter and sour cream! Consider ordering a sweet potato instead of white potato!

To avoid over-eating, eat small meals throughout the day so you’re not starving at dinner. Take your time eating your meal, enjoy every bite as well as your company at the table!

Of course, it’s vacation, so relax and enjoy a cocktail! Just don’t overdo it! And make sure that you’ve hydrated throughout the day.

5. Sweat!

You know the feeling you have after you’ve worked out, so why sacrifice a good sweat session when you’re on the road? That’s why you packed your workout gear — so use it!

Lace up your tennis shoes and hit the pavement (or sand!) This is a great way to explore the city you’re in, too. And since you researched ahead of time, you already know the parks or running trails nearby! We promise that you will not regret a workout! Don't forget about our FREE workouts and workout videos on our website and YOUTUBE channel! 

If you want a good strength workout during your trip, here are a couple options you can do anywhere without any weights:

Five, simple things you can do to take your transformed lifestyle with you on the road! We are so proud of you and all the hard work you put in through the spring months! Enjoy this quality time with your family!

If you would like to meet with our Nutrition Consultant, Katie Woodall, or our Dietician Kaeti Shurling to discuss nutrition and assist you in meal planning, please contact here. Additionally, you can purchase our eBook- Healthy Families Handbook. This eBook has a full week of meal plans, "family-tested" recipes, family devotions, a kid's couch to 5K program, and workouts for the whole family!  

Awesome new sessions have been added in June — check them out on MindBody! Sign up for something new this month! Come out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself on vacation or here in Athens!

If you have any questions about MindBody or our summer schedule, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you in the studio and hearing about your summer travels and your new summer goals!

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Keep the Fire Burning-The 5 Day Food Journal Challenge is Almost Over! Finish STRONG!

It's Day 4 of the Food Journal Challenge! We've been so energized by the responses we have received thus far, and we are excited to see what the rest of June will have in store for us! We are stronger together ladies! Remember that it's never too late to start changing your life for the better- start the My Fitness Pal Food Journal Challenge today or and if you already started let's finish the week STRONG!

Two favorite truths to encourage you to give your best and never give up! 

James 1:2-4  “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

James 1:12  “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

Let's fill our mind with positive thoughts and inspiring goals and give our best for the remainder of June! Just because the food journal challenge will be over, doesn't mean you have to stop being accountable for your nutrition! Keep challenging yourself to journal your food daily!

We are so proud to have so many hardworking friends!

On Saturday, please email, text, or tell us that you completed the food journal challenge! You can email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We will collect all the names of all our participants and then put all the names in a jar for a raffle for $100 credit towards sessions! We are so proud of each of you who have participated! Keep up the hard work! You are living transformed!

This week we are offering YOU a SPECIAL SUMMER deal on all inspirational merchandise!  Today through Thursday, June 21, you can use our code SIZZLE for 20% off all merchandise, in-store and on our Etsy page! You can use this code at checkout to receive your discount! 

If you need any help planning meals, remember that we have a week meal plan on our website FOR FREE! You can also email us to schedule an appointment to meet with our registered dietitian! Check out our website HERE for a nutrition package that fits your needs! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Join Us For The Food Journal Challenge! One Week of Food Journaling Accountability To Transform You!

Sweet friends!

This week we want to challenge you to a week of accountability with your nutrition! We are challenging each of YOU to a 5-day Food Journal Challenge! Take this challenge with us and submit your journal at the end of the 5 days and be entered in to WIN $100 CREDIT toward sessions! Check out the details below!

What is the challenge?

Keep a food journal starting Monday and going through Friday, 5 DAYS! Download the MyFitnessPal app and log your food, outlining the details of your meals and snacks throughout the day.

Why take the challenge?

Using a food journal is the number one way you can take control of your healthy lifestyle. Everyone struggles with what we put in our mouths and self-awareness helps us to realize what food and beverages we are actually fueling our body with daily. Journaling is an amazing tool for weight loss, assessing a food intolerance, or to treat a deficiency.  We have seen the MOST effective results with our nutrition clients who have kept a food journal and showed it to us weekly! The week of accountability is one important key to unlock your success in reaching your personal goals. You can live anywhere and take this challenge. If you have time to whine about your body, you have time to write down what you ate during the day. No excuses, friends, you CAN DO this challenge! You bite it, you write it!  We are here for you and will be your partner in this journey! Let’s do it – start today, be honest, and you will see results!

5 Helpful Tips to Get Started on the Food Journal Challenge!

1. Download the MyFitnessPal app and create an account! You can also do a handwritten food journal if you don't care for the app.

2. Commit to doing the food journal every day for 5 days.

3. Write down 3 goals for the week right now, and tell someone else out loud your goals!

4. Be honest! We are not judging you on what you eat- the challenge is for you to become a healthier person and by journaling, you will gain a greater awareness of what you are eating daily!

5. Clean out the pantry and refrigerator. Start the week off right; any food or beverages that are tempting to you- TOSS! You don’t need it and neither does your family! Start the week fresh with a clean refrigerator and pantry so that you can restock with fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. YES, YOU CAN!

We believe in YOU! You CAN commit to 5 days of food journaling! We want to provide you accountability! Encourage one another to take the challenge and share your food journals with one another. Accountability is a key to your success! Let's do it, ladies! 

Reminder! We have a FREE meal plan and recipes on our website under the Healthy Living tab of the website! Also, if you're on vacation check out our workout videos on YOUTUBE! 

Email us at transfitathens@gmail.com if you have any questions or would like to schedule a 1-1 with one of our Personal Trainers or Nutrition Consultants to help you reach your health goals! We are here to serve you! 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Monday Motivation! May Transformation Challenge Starts NOW!

Happy Monday! 

It's time for MAY and our MAY TRANSFORMATION CHALLENGE! We hope that you will join us for our challenge! It is going to be so much fun and something you don't want to miss. Challenge yourself to a month of accountability. Fill out the May Transformation Challenge calendar and come participate in our NEW May Challenge and weigh in for a chance to WIN! If you missed our last post about the May Transformation Challenge, check it out HERE! 

For the first time EVER, we are doing a May Transformation Challenge!

Details of the Game:

Start: May 1st -3rd- weigh-in's    

Finish: May 30 and 31, winner announced June 1

To Play: 1. Any person puts $20 in the bucket

2. WEIGH IN (Kept completely confidential)

3. Do your best throughout the month of May (eat right, exercise, etc.)

4. WEIGH IN on May 30 or 31

***If your weight stays the same -- you get your money back! SUCCESS!

***If you gain weight -- your money stays in the bucket. The winner gets all the cash left in the bucket! Let's all play to keep accountable in May! 

 We want to encourage you to participate, as we reset for the month and recharge to prepare for summer! The first place winner will receive all cash! 

To kickstart the month of May, try this new recipe! 

Almond Butter Chocolate Smoothie

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 TBSP Almond Butter
• 1 serving Chocolate protein powder
• 1 tsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 C frozen riced cauliflower
• 1 Tbsp cacao nibs
• 6 ice cubes
• Blend well -add sprinkles of almond butter & cacao nibs! Yummmm!!

We hope that you will join us for the May Transformation Challenge! This challenge is for ALL women in the community! If you want to join us, email transfitathens@gmail.com to schedule a time to come weigh in! 

We hope to see you in the studio, soon! Let's make this May the best month yet as we focus on making exercise our medicine! 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit 

5 Tips You Need to Spring Clean Your Week!

Sweet friends, 

We were thinking about all the people who have been inquiring the past few months about wanting to make a change in their life--a new refreshing change toward a healthy lifestyle! Like all of you who were spring cleaning your closets this past week; now is the time to spring clean your lifestyle!! Just making a few small changes can help you feel more organized, refreshed, and focused on your health. We have 5 tips that you can do this week to reset your body, mind, and spirit!

5 tips that help you revive your healthy lifestyle!

Tip 1: Start on Sundays or Mondays

Sit down with your newspaper, see what is in season and fresh and plan your weekly menu. Get the kids involved ask each family member what they would like to eat (within reason) and plan accordingly. We use a dry erase board and write out breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and dinner. The children love helping decide what is for dinner and it helps them to learn about food groups and what you need to make a balanced meal. Meal prep is essential! Here is a FREE meal plan! Click HERE! 

Tip 2: Pre-cook Protein for the week on the day purchased

Buy chicken, pork, and other meets and try cooking them all the day purchased. Bake or Grill 4-8 chicken breasts with little seasonings then throughout the week you can chop and put in a salad, a tortilla, or make chicken salad. The easy step of pre-cooking protein will help you to eat more at home for meals and not feel so rushed in the evenings.

Tip 3: Wash & Cut veggies and fruit for half of the week and store in grab-n-go containers or plastic bags for easy access.  Make a veggie tray for the week and try to keep in the fridge and bring out for the family as afternoon snack or appetizer before dinner.

Tip 4: Make snack baskets for your children and for you!

The premise of the snack basket is that everyone is not rummaging through the pantry multiple times a day.  Pre-make snacks a the beginning of the week in portion controlled bags and the snacks will be ready for active families! Snack baskets for adults are also ideal as a post-workout snack or afternoon pick-me-up!

Step 5: Make an appointment for exercise

Your doctor, hair, and other appointments are important and your health should be top on your list. Make an appointment with yourself, a friend, or a trainer to exercise 5 times a week. YOU are worth it! Put it on the calendar and stick with that time consistently! Don't forget our new HIIT class is tomorrow and Thursday at 9:30 AM! This is a great way to revive your cardio workout! 

We are so proud of you and your goals to get healthy! You will start to see that when you make these healthy decisions, your family and friends will, too! You are an inspiration. If you would like to meet with our Registered Dietitian or Nutrition Consultants, you can purchase a session on our website HERE or app HERE! If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. Let us know how we can help you live transformed! 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Client Spotlight You Don't Want to Miss!

Sweet friends! 

Today, we want to share the stories of three beautiful ladies who will surely inspire you that YOU CAN do anything you put your mind to!! We are so thankful for each of these ladies and the hard work and dedication they put into living transformed each day! One goal of each of these ladies is to have strong bones. Marilyn, Ba, and Molly have been doing strength training exercises for over 2 years and have seen amazing results! We often focus and talk about the importance of building up bones and increasing our bone density in sessions.  We need weight-bearing exercises, Vitamin D, and Calcium to maintain strong bones as we age!  Check out these top five superfoods for your bones! Find ways to incorporate these foods into your meals! 

Top Five Superfoods For Your Bones:

1. Dark Leafy Greens- choose dark greens like kale, collard greens, and turnip greens! These greens are a great source of calcium and Vitamin K, which helps reduce risks of osteoporosis. 
2. Sweet potatoes- Sweet potatoes add potassium and magnesium into your diet! 
3. Grapefruit- one grapefruit will give you enough calcium you need for the day! 
4. Figs- offer you calcium, potassium, and magnesium! 
5. Salmon- It has Vitamin D that helps your bones use calcium and the omega-3 fatty acids, which help your bones! 

Marilyn Nutter, Molly Efland, Ba Steedman

Molly's story about living transformed:

I started working with Caroline in March of 2014, so this is an anniversary year for us! At that time I had retired from full-time teaching and wanted to devote some time to get my body in ‘shape’.  Even though I’d always thought of myself as being reasonably fit, healthy and enjoyed being active, my body was showing signs that I was getting older and had to do something different to tone things up. I needed guidance to get started, keep going, and have fun while doing it. Caroline quickly gave me that guidance and motivated me to set obtainable goals for exercise and nutrition. When I exercise at TransFit now, I leave feeling refreshed, tired too, but well refreshed for the day ahead. I love working out with so many positive women who may have different goals than me, but we certainly have a common bond of exercise, nutrition, and positivity to improve our lives. It’s hard work for sure, but I can’t imagine not continuing. I work out at TransFit twice a week, go to yoga on two other days and try to swim at least once a week. I also walk each day, some days shorter walks than others, but I just have to get outside and move.

One of the biggest changes I have made is how to plan meals better and really think about what I’m going to eat each day.  I’ve loved learning about so many different good things to eat that are healthy for you! Who knew you should eat a small snack between meals?? Hemp hearts and quinoa are now on my steady diet. Luckily I have a husband who is willing to try new recipes…at least once. Before working with Caroline I wasn’t a big breakfast eater, but now I know the benefits of eating something to get you started each day. Here one of my easy go-to breakfast recipes:

Baked Apple with Yogurt and Nuts

• 1 apple, I like Honeycrisp
• ½ to 1-cup Greek yogurt, plain or vanilla
• Cinnamon
• Roasted pecan halves
• 2-3 teaspoons of hemp hearts

Slice the apple into bite size pieces, place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Sprinkle them liberally with cinnamon. Cook in the microwave for about 1 to 1 ½ minutes.  Dollop the yogurt on top, then the pecans, then the hemp hearts. If you use plain yogurt you might want to drizzle a little agave syrup on top. The apples give out lots of nice sweet juice, just depends on your taste.

 Ba's story about living transformed:

I retired from full time teaching after more than 30 years and am now teaching half-time.  I love teaching and hope to continue for several more years. I have a wonderful, supportive family - including 2 beautiful grandchildren. I have always been active, but I wanted to continue to be active. I felt that an exercise program for "me" would help. TransFit supported me and my friends in working to help us with strength training, nutrition, but most importantly, positive energy. I enjoy working out with others and sharing our concerns and victories. I always feel better after exercising. I am challenged constantly and want to work harder! I come to classes twice a week.  I walk most days and I love to go to yoga.  I would like to start back playing tennis. I used to play, but would love to start back! I love to set goals and am currently trying to continue to work on a better diet for me and my husband! Another goal is to exercise together, but it is a challenge. However, a new healthy lifestyle affects other facets of my life and I now feel better and have been able to make many new friends! 

Marilyn's story about living transformed:

Marilyn is the most dedicated woman and is the most consistent in her Tuesday/ Thursday small group! Her strength amazing us each day as she lifts weights and has the most beautiful plank. We love hearing about the new superfoods she eats each morning! You may see Marilyn out walking with her friends most mornings getting in her cardio! This lady is our inspiration - living transformed and encouraging all her friends to stay active! 

Ladies, thank you for inspiring us! What a joy it is to have each of you in the TransFit community! We hope that you feel encouraged by these ladies! 

For those of you who took the TransFIVE Challenge, let's finish strong! You can do it! We believe in you! If you didn't take the challenge, it's not too late to start! You can download the FREE eBook HERE! 

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Let's Finish March Strong! Revive Your Body With The 5 Day No Sugar Challenge!

Happy Saturday! 

We had an amazing week in the studio and look forward to finishing March strong with you! Today, refocus your mind on those goals you set at the beginning of the month. We can finish March stronger than we started! 

We hope that you have been exercising daily for our Maximize your Motivation in March challenge! Bring in your calendars at the end of the week, to be entered for a month of free sessions! Today, we want to challenge you to take our Spring TransFive challenge. What better time to start, than the last 5 days of March?  YES, YOU CAN! 

Our TransFive challenge is a five-day SUGAR elimination challenge. We will send you our Spring eBook that is filled with a 5-day meal plan, recipes, tips, and daily scripture to help you conquer the challenge! As you accept this challenge keep these tips in mind: 

• Avoid simple carbohydrates, like processed bread, cereals.
• Avoid added sugars in foods, artificially sweetened desserts, and candy.
• Consume ALL your meals prior to 7:00 P.M. Then, brush your teeth for the night and avoid any food until the next morning when you eat breakfast.
• Drink a minimum of 80 ounces of water DAILY.
• Try to eat fewer fruits and MORE veggies!
• Exercise each day for a minimum 30 minutes- one option would be to alternate your strength training and cardiovascular exercise.
• Find an accountability partner for the 5 days.
• Beleive in yourself - we believe in you! 

Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 avocado, diced (or you can double this to 2 avocados!)
• 4 ounces crumbled gorgonzola or goat cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• Half a small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Strawberry Vinaigrette (recipe below)

Strawberry Vinaigrette 

• 1/2 pound fresh strawberries
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

To prepare the strawberry vinaigrette, place all ingredients in a blender, blend until smooth. Toss all salad ingredients together with your desired amount of dressing until combined. Serve immediately.

Thank you to all the sweet ladies who came out to support our Night of Hope event! We enjoyed getting to sparkle, fellowship, and celebrate with each of you! Hope 139's website has officially launched! Click HERE to go to the website!

Through the Hope 139 website, you can learn more and make donations! If you have any questions, please email shelley@transfitathens.com. It is an honor getting to see how the Lord is moving within our community of TransFit ladies to lift up and encourage women who are less fortunate!  THANK YOU! 

ACCEPT the challenge!  5 Days will revive your body, mind, and spirit!  You are strong and you can complete these FIVE DAYS! We believe in YOU!

We look forward to encouraging you this week! Book sessions today so you have the days and times that are best for you and to help keep you accountable for reaching your goals!

Download our app, TransFit to book sessions and find recipes, inspiration, and workouts! Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Snapchat @transfitathens, to keep up with what is happening in the studio, enter in for great giveaways, and find new recipes or workouts to try! If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Revive Your Breakfast for Spring! 🍳🌸

If I took a poll of our readers, friends, and family what percent of them do you think would call themselves “morning people?” It’s becoming a rarity these days to find those who wake up easily in the mornings, love to arise with the sun and get moving in preparation for the day ahead!  One word: BREAKFAST. Everyone may know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but that, unfortunately, does not mean that everyone takes the time to sit down to a solid meal before jetting off to work or school. According to the NPD Group, approximately 31 MILLION Americans skip breakfast. The same survey also found that many males ages 18-34 as well as teenagers (as opposed to younger children) do not eat breakfast. Women ages 55 and older were the most likely to eat a morning meal. What were the common reasons for skipping? People weren’t hungry, they didn’t feel like eating, or they were too busy or running late. 

Despite whether you are hungry or not, busy or not, you NEED to make time for eating breakfast. Breakfast consumption can increase the feeling of fullness, and high-protein breakfasts can help regulate appetite throughout the day. Breakfast is also good for your overall mood, metabolism, and overall health.

Kick-start your day with some new Spring recipes below! These are simple to prepare the day of, or, if you still think you will be rushed in the morning, these can easily be prepared the night or weekend before! You are worth a few extra minutes to have breakfast! 

Don’t stop, however, at simply eating breakfast. The morning meal is the perfect opportunity to insert some family time and inspiration into your day. A wonderful tradition to start with your kids is to do a simple devotional or bible verse first thing in the morning. It not only gets your kids’ minds jump-started, but it also has them (and YOU) putting your mind and focus on important things first thing in the morning. You can even stick those bible verses or quotes into your little ones’ or loved one's lunchboxes!

Here are some of our favorite breakfast recipes you can add to your mornings! 

Spring Greens Shake 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Vanilla Unsweetened Almond Milk

• 1 serving Vanilla Protein Powder

• 1 small frozen banana

• 1 tbsp Ground Flax Seed

• 5 fresh mint leaves

• 2 cups spinach 

• 1 cup crushed ice

Blend, serve, and top with fresh mint leaves and cacao nibs! Enjoy! 

Chia Coconut Oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup steel cut oats of old-fashioned oats

• 1-ounce dry chia seeds

• 1 cups unsweetened coconut milk

• 1 tsp. cinnamon

• 4-5 drops stevia extract

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes

• 1 tsp. 100% pure maple syrup (optional)

Soak oats and chia seeds in coconut milk overnight (I place in a large mason jar and shake a few times). Before eating warm oatmeal on stovetop or microwave until desired consistency. Stir in stevia and/or maple syrup and more coconut milk to reach desired consistency and top with coconut flakes. 

Mini Egg Frittata

Ingredients:

• 10 large eggs

• 1 cup chopped bell peppers

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 1 cup cooked crumbled chicken sausage or turkey bacon 

• 1 cup chopped spinach

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a non-stick or silicone muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

Heat olive oil into a a non-stick frying pan over medium high heat. Add the bell pepper and onion and saute for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the meat and spinach and cook an additional 2 minutes. Place 1 heaping Tablespoon into each muffin cup.

Next whisk the eggs into a medium size bowl. Stir in the salt and pepper. Then pour over the meat mixture in the muffin tin, leaving 1/4″ from the top.

Cook for 23 to 30 minutes, or until the egg has puffed and comes clean with a toothpick.

Run a knife around the edges to pop the egg frittatas out. Enjoy while hot.

Store in the an air tight container in the refrigerator. Eat within 5 days.

Join us tonight for our Night of Hope! We will kick off the night at 6 PM! Join us for the FREE bodyweight workout, for women of all ages and abilities! There will be great food and fellowship! We would love to see you tonight! You can sign up on the app under SPECIAL EVENTS! If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

We hope you enjoy these new, healthy breakfast recipes! Let us know what you think! You can find more recipes our website if you want more meal ideas!

If you would like to meet with one of our nutrition consultants or registered dietitian to jumpstart your Spring, you can email us at transfitathens@gmail.com or book an appointment on our app! Don't forget about our three March Recharge Nutrition packages! We want to help you live transformed in body, mind, and spirit. 

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit 

What Should You Eat For a Healthy Snack Today?

Ladies, 

Part of living transformed is taking your healthy lifestyle with you on the road. Packing healthy snacks for mini vacations or business trips don't have to be complicated! Our TransFit Team encourages you to plan and prepare weekly so you're organized at home with your meals. Similarly, taking just a few minutes to prepare a bag with healthy snacks, you're one step ahead while traveling with nutritious options to munch on during your trip! 

Our Team wants to share with you some of our favorites! 

WATER

Pack a large water bottle or several smaller ones. This way you avoid dehydration and your skin keeps its natural glow!

FRUIT

Don't leave fresh fruit behind while you're away! Grab what's left in your fruit bowls, like clementines, apples or bananas.

PROTEIN AND NUTS
Remember, protein helps you feel fuller longer. So you'll want good protein sources. We like Rx bars, grass-fed beef sticks, and raw nuts. And it only takes a minute to measure out 1/4 cup portions of your nuts or trail mix and store in individual snack bags. Yay for portion control!

CREAMER

We appreciate good coffee creamer! : ) Especially, if you're dairy-free these are both great options for traveling. See picture above! 

Some other favorites:

• Dry Roasted Edamame

• Macadamia nuts

• RX bars

• Pistachios

• Vega Protein Shakes

• Nutpods

• Organic Fit High Protein Weight Loss Bar

• Koia 

Once your snack bag is ready, don't forget to pack your running shoes and workout clothes! We want you to plan exercise into your trip! You'll feel energized during your trip, but also when you return home! If you're traveling with family, this is an opportunity for you to spend extra time with them. Whether it's a sweat session in the gym, a round of tennis or golf, a walk on the beach or jog around a new city, we want to encourage you to keep moving!

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Need a LIFT in Your Spirits This Week? NEW Session Added 11:30 Monday's!

Happy Sunday! 

We are all ready for a great new month of March! HOPE is in the air! Start your Monday with us at TransFit and lift your spirits! 

The new TransUpLift session will begin tomorrow (Monday) at 11:30.

TransForm your Body- Elevate your Spirit- Renew your Mind! 

TransUpLift will inspire and challenge you while you release toxins and tension from your entire body. The 55-minute session will help you clear your mind by flowing in rhythmic, yoga-inspired movements. Activate your core, strengthen your arms, and tone your legs in the full body session. By allowing the body to gracefully move and flow, you will free yourself to be re-energized and lifted up! You will leave the session with renewed energy and total strength in body, mind, and spirit! This session will use only your body (not weights or machines) to UpLift your day! 

Bring your yoga mat or borrow one of ours for this new, inspiring session. 

We are excited to announce our March Lunch and Learn date! Mark the calendar for March 8 at 11 AM! We will meet at The National and hear from master chef, Peter Dale. We will enjoy a delicious and healthy Power Lunch, learn about the nutritional components of the power lunch, how to cook this fabulous lunch, and gain some insight on how to make your own healthy lunches at home with some of Peter's favorite recipes! You don't want to miss this! Sign up on our FREE app under SPECIAL EVENTS! The cost is $20 and it includes the power lunch, drink, and tip! 

If you need some ideas while meal prepping, check out our website under the HEALTHY LIVING TAB! Don't forget about our March Recharge Nutrition packages! You can find more details on our past blog and under SERVICES on our website! 

Sign up for our new TransUpLift session, Lunch and Learn, and other sessions on our FREE app! We hope to see you this week! Come join us! 

If you have any questions, email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. Let us know how we can help you live transformed! 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

Need a March Recharge? New Accountability Nutrition Packages!

Ladies, 

We hope that you read our blog yesterday about a new HOPE in March and the new ministry we are supporting, Hope 139 house, Inc! We are so excited to partner with Shelley and her ministry. 

We want to introduce our Nutrition Packages that we will offer this month! We encourage you to purchase them TODAY because it will provide you accountability throughout the month! Each package is different and is meant for you to choose the one that is best for YOU! We hope that you will take advantage of these packages and kick-start your nutrition this month! We want to provide you with accountability! Each package price shown below is a weekly price, but we encourage you to purchase the full package that will allow you to commit to nutrition and accountability for 4 weeks! 

March Recharge Package ($50 weekly, $200 (4-week minimum)

• Accountability with nutrition by food journaling daily and in person or phone check-in, once weekly 
• March accountability sheet
• Goal sheet
• Weekly challenges and inspiration

March Recharge Package Elite ($75 weekly, $300 (4-week minimum) 

• Accountability with nutrition by food journaling daily and in person or phone check-in, once weekly 
• March accountability sheet
• Goal sheet
• Weekly challenges and inspiration
• Weekly meal plan, recipes, shopping list

March Recharge Package Platinum ($100 weekly, $400 (4-week minimum)

• Accountability with nutrition by food journaling daily and in person or phone check-in, once DAILY
• March accountability sheet
• Goal sheet
• Weekly challenges and inspiration
• Weekly meal plan, recipes, shopping list
• 1-1 consultation at beginning and end of the month to set specific goals, assess progress and maintain accountability 

We want to invite you to our Lunch and Learn on March 8 at 11 AM! We will hear from Chef Peter Dale from The National and learn about the Power lunch, plus recipes you can try at home! We will also hear from Kaeti Shurling, our dietitian and Shelley Tanner, as she shares about her new ministry, Hope 139! We hope that you will join us! Sign up on the app under SPECIAL EVENTS! 

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit 

Top 5 Super Foods For Your Heart! ❤️

Happy Wednesday! 

It has been another incredible week in the studio! Thank you for bringing your heart and soul into every hour! We can continue to celebrate the love we have for our bodies through movement and change our perspective to view exercise as worship! That is how we can live transformed!  While exercise is a way to honor your body, eating nutritious, healing, and nourishing foods is another way to live transformed.  Exercise and nutrition are a vital piece to keep your hearts healthy! We want to share five superfoods for your heart and a fun, new recipe to try! 

1. Hemp Hearts. Hemp hearts are the "heart" of a shelled hemp seed. They are rich in protein and have a high balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and enzymes. They have been shown to decrease blood pressure, as well as lower the risks of colon and prostate cancer. Also, they can relieve indigestion because they have no known allergens.  Sprinkle hemp hearts on your salad, yogurt, or smoothie. 

2. Avocado is full of healthy fats and contains many vital nutrients and fibers that your body and heart need. Avocado offers nutrients so that you can have a healthy heart! 

3. Leafy Greens contain a nitrate content. This nitrate content allows the heart to pump blood more efficiently and allows for an overall better blood flow. 

Baby Spinach Salad with Blueberries and Pecans

• Fresh baby spinach leaves, rinsed and spun dry
• 1 pint fresh raspberries or strawberries, cleaned
• 1 pint fresh blueberries, cleaned
• ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup Goat cheese, crumbled

Blueberry Vinaigrette 

• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• 1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp. honey
• Salt and fresh-ground black pepper
• 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Combine the spinach, raspberries, blueberries, pecans, and feta in a large bowl; toss. To prepare the vinaigrette, in a food processor add the blueberries, vinegar, honey, and salt and pepper to taste. Process to break down the blueberries. While the food processor is running, slowly add the olive oil. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust any ingredients to suit your taste. Pour the vinaigrette over the spinach salad and serve.

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4. Tomatoes have nutrients that are found to help prevent cardiovascular disease. Additionally, tomatoes have nutrients that can protect and reduce cholesterol and blood pressure. 

5. Berries are a source of micro nutrients and fiber. They support your heart through decreased activity of carbohydrate digestive enzymes and inhibit inflammatory gene expression and foam cell formation. If the cell formation and gene expression is not kept under control, it can result in heart disease and a lower, decreased heart health.  Raspberries are the highest in fiber, lowest in sugar fruit! Enjoy! 

Dark Chocolate Energy Bites for the Heart

Serves 20

• 1 cup dates, pitted
• 2 cups walnuts
• 1/3 cup cacao powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 cup hemp seeds
• 1/4 cup creamy nut butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ***optional- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Pulse in food processor. Roll into balls and chill for 30 minutes. Enjoy this fudgy, sweet protein-packed snack! 

Add these foods to your meals throughout the week! We believe in YOU! We have nutrition sessions available if you would like to meet with our dietitian or registered nutritionist, to learn more about your health and nutrition. You can purchase these sessions via our app or website!

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit