kettlebella wisdom

Talk Hurty To Me!

2010-03-09T13:59:00.000-08:00

Hello My Darling Ones,

Just establishing that if you think pain is an automatic part of the kettlebell game, think again!

How are you feeling? And how do you feel when participating w/ your beloved kettlebells?

Do all your parts seem to be in working order, or does anything feel funky or painful?

If any of your bodily sensations are straying towards the uncomfortable side of the tracks, please (if you don't already) TELL ME!

Kettlebells are an amazing tool that foster the use of healthy body mechanics that will keep you upright and able bodied all your live long days. SO, if something hurts - it simply means something is amiss.

Kettlebells are an amazing tool, but what's even more amazing are our bodies and how they work. One thing that you can rest on is that our bodies are logical. If something doesn't feel right with it - it's probably not!

What I don't know can hurt you, but what I DO know can potentially help.

Solutions may be simple or complex, but know that it's more likely to that you'll find an answer if you're actually looking for one.

So, if your body is speaking to you inappropriately, lay it on me! Share that stuff! It'll only help.

To encouraging you to workout loud ;).

xo, M

Flower Power! (plus Pool Party II starts Wed!)

2010-03-01T21:04:00.000-08:00

Hello My Bizzy Buzzy Bees,

We're still in the spirit of sharing, and I figured you might want to hear from a incredible force that has attended the first Pool Party.

If you know Ms. Lucy Rose personally, you know she has a bit of the divine in her - but now there's a little something more. I want to personally say that a big transformation has visibly happened with Ms. Rose. Our lovely blossom would often have a bit of a puss on her pretty face in response to the difficulties of mastering the swing, or the seeming ridiculousness of the demands of the workout.

Much has resulted from her Pool Party training and a recent weekly commitment for just over a month. Graceful efficient movements, increased strength and stamina, and generally WAY more joy during a workout. Lucy's body "gets it" now, and the pleasure that it gives is clear.

"My Kettlebella beginning started when I became one of the original members of the "Pool Party". What I enjoy most about my kettlebell experience is that the training not only works me physically but also gives me a sense of how powerful I feel. The physical and mental strength that is generated at a Kettlebella class is a seriously groovy hip way to get more power to the people!"

- Lucy Rose

So what are you waiting for? Pool Party II commences this Wednesday 3/3 at 6:30pm. Would love to have you join the other bathing beauties for an experience that will develop you inside and out.

So whatever your variety - Tiger Lily, Snap Dragon... come be loud and proud!

To not supporting Shrinking Violet-ism.

xo, M

Zen Cookson

2010-02-21T17:13:00.000-08:00

Yes Darlings,

The testimonials are piling up for those who have reaped the benefits of kettlebells for a myriad of reasons.

Our own lovely Jen Cookson shares a bit of what is (or isn't) on her mind...

"Kettlebells is not only the BEST total body workout I've ever experienced, but it helps me to foster an almost meditative mind state. Because the Kettlebell movements require constant mental focus, my mind is blissfully devoid of the constant chatter to which it is accustomed. When I complete a Kettlebell class, my body is spent and is humming with satisfaction while my mind is quiet and rested.

ALSO it doesn't hurt that within 3 weeks of regularly attending Kettlebells I noticed more definition in my biceps, my thighs fit more comfortably into pants that were previously snug and I became aware of ALL of my stomach muscles for the first time in my life.

Inserting weekly (initially, and now bi-weekly) Kettlebells classes into my routine treadmill workouts has kicked my fitness up a level - without having to make a huge time commitment.

Plus I just bought my 1st pair of size 8 jeans ever!!"

- Jen Cookson

Impact and results my darlings! How fabulous! Now, what's your story?

Lastly, the hour is almost upon us! Pool Party II (Wednesday's at 6:30pm from 3/3 - 4/28) is fast approaching!

If you desire the benefits of this amazing tool, but are a weensy bit concerned about it's inherent intensity or your level of conditioning - COME!! For the love of God, come! You will NOT regret it.

So be in touch with tales of triumph, the promise of attendence, or whatever else might need to be voiced.

All (heart and) ears.

xo, M

Amy's Got Back! (and Pool Party II rally)

2010-02-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

Hello Darlings,

Thought it might be good to hear about the kettlebell's virtues from someone besides myself...

"After a hip injury left me unable to play sports as I had been doing for the past 22 years, I began searching for a workout that gave me the same full-body satisfaction that sports provided. I wanted to have that feeling of leaving it all out on the court/field, like I could challenge myself and improve - and most importantly, I wanted to feel strong, capable, and balanced again.

I found kettlebells (and Michaela) a year ago and they have provided all of that and more. My body has changed - I am stronger, faster, harder - and my confidence level has gone up.

In recent weeks, I have been trying on gowns for my wedding this summer. It meant so much to me that I could look in the mirror and see the results of my hard work at kettlebell classes. My back looks great, my arms are toned - and I will walk down the aisle confidently, knowing that kettlebells has helped me achieve my physical goals. And it meant even more that I could share this happy news with Michaela, who has been incredibly supportive of this kettlebell pupil.

Thanks kettlebells. And, more importantly, thanks Michaela!

Amy Greer

Love it! So what's your story?

And yes! Pool Party II

If you're on the fence, make sure you don't have summer leave you behind! If getting in shape and checking out kettlebells have been on your to-do list for this year - let's make it happen! Two birds, one stone, and a whole heck of a lot of sweat, groovy tunes, and fun!

So let it be known! Declare your desire to unlock the secrets of age old fitness wizardry. The magic will be commencing Wednesday's at 6:30pm 3/3 - 4/28. Be in touch about your wishes so we can get them fulfilled

Awaiting to hear with bated breath.

xo, M

Pool Party II (ease your way into the way of the kettlebell)

2010-02-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

Hello Luvs,
There has been talk, and now there's action. I'm getting a class together for individuals who want a gradual progression into the kettlebell workout pool, rather than being thrown in at the deep end.

This fun and systematic training will be beginning on Wednesday's at 6:30pm on 3/3 through 4/28.

Phew! That's a long time to ease into kettlebells! It is! Intentionally so. By having our class run so long, you are ensured to not only get the kettlebell in you but for you to get into kettlebells!

Price for this whale of a good time is $135 due at the onset of class.

So get in touch if you're interested and come!
Learn and perfect what you've been wanting to use to get you in fantastic shape!

Get strong! Get lean! Feel great in your body! Feel great about your body!

Do this all with one of the most intimidating workout tools in a completely un-intimidating way.
Hand holding and continual encouragement will be rampant.

You deserve what you want. Let's go get it.
xo, M

Zoom, KaBOOM, and Eeek! (update for Sat)

2010-02-09T07:59:00.000-08:00

What is all the commotion about My Lovelies?!?

Well, perhaps it's about how things are going down this week.

So, we all know how kettlebells use interval training to get you to be your most fabulous, most fit self, but we're going one step further.

I'm sure you've heard "Kettlebells will get you fit fast." leave my lips many a time, but did you know that kettlebells and specifically how you train w/ kettlebells can get you fast fast?!?

In the world of exercise if you want to get stronger you move heavier weight.
If you want to have more endurance you go for a longer duration.
And if you want to be faster and able to react more quickly and powerfully you cram more reps into a certain amount of time.

Ok, so obviously amazing for athletes and those who are involved in a sport. But what about the rest of us?

Well darlings, if a normal kettlebell workout averages about 900 calories burned think about the added deficit you'll be creating by working those bitty buns just a wee bit harder in the same amount of time as usual.

Kettlebells = Efficient. Always. This just happens to take it to a new level.

So come and develop increased speed and explosiveness through a slightly different focus. Waist whittling will just be an inadvertent by product ;).

Oh! And Eeek for real! Update!

This week Tuesday and Thursday are right on time at 6:30pm, however this Saturday the 13th will truly be for the (early) birds. 8:30am darlings! A thousand apologies. Please be in touch about it if it majorly disrupts your weekend.

To supporting you being Fast and Furious.
xo, M

Think Pink!

2010-02-01T21:08:00.000-08:00

Time to don those Rose Colored glasses Luvs!

Why?

Well, because it simply makes all things better to view them through "glass half full" eyes.

It is so flippin' easy to get down in the mouth about various aspects of ourselves and our lives. Not pleasurable, but certainly easy.

The amazing thing is it takes just a smidge more effort to wipe the smudges off those lenses, and behold a whole new world brimming with possibilities and potential.

We're in the month that celebrates love my darlings! Let that be the thing that reminds you you can turn your perceptions a rosier hue with the flick of your mind.

So come don your shade of choice, and join in the group of other 4 eyes on Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm and Saturday at 9:30am.

Strict spectral discrimination will be enforced.

xo, M

If It's Broke, Don't Fix It!

2010-01-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

Yes Lovely Ones,

Now that "Wha, wha, what?!?" has come and gone from your thoughts - hear me out.

We are in agreement that if something isn't working for you, you should probably do something about it. However, what I'm suggesting is focusing on something BESIDES the thing that doesn't quite fit w/ you and your life.

Why?

Well. the more attention we give something the bigger and stronger it gets.

Don't want to eat the entire pint of ice cream? Keep focusing on it, and it's sure to come true. Don't want to eat the entire pint of ice cream? Put your attention on anything else, and those little imps in your mind will get quiet relatively quickly.

It seems the more we struggle w/ what we don't want, the more of it we actually end up getting. By turning your attention away from a certain undesirable behavior, we weaken it's perceived hold on us. How freeing is that?! Lots of power in this way of operating!

So let's leave dysfunctional behaviors and beliefs behind by simply leaving them behind. You are destined for greener pastures my friend, and the fastest way to them is to begin to focus on and move towards their verdant lushness.

Need practice? Come to class! On Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm and Saturday at 9:30am, we'll be focusing on things that help your body feel strong and healthy and move you closer to your goals. Thoughts of that pint of ice cream will kindly be left at the door.

To moving out of the darkness and into the light.

xo, M

Not Right Not Wrong

2010-01-18T19:40:00.000-08:00

Hello Darlings,

That's right, it's/every thing's just different.

Especially your bodies.

Often during class or when someone is becoming familiar with the kettlebell the question, "Am I doing this right?" will come up.

Now, you are correct in assuming that there are MANY fundamental dos and don'ts with our cuddly little cast iron friend - but then there are a whole array of movements and positions that are particular to your exquisite snowflake of a body.

Hurt = Bad. Always. But there tends to be a multitude of better or best depending on who and what that who is doing.

Does this make things more relaxed? I hope so.

Doing what feels more natural at any given moment - whether it's swinging in a more upright stance, taking an extra step to reach standing in your Turkish get up, or giving yourself a break when you need it - is all RIGHT!

And let me say this, coming from a place of believing that you're doing a good job, and that you're correct in what you're choosing will escalate you in a fast and furious way inside of Kettlebella's walls and beyond.

So let's let go of doubt, and embrace our uniqueness Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm and Saturday at 9:30am!

Oh! 6 week Gradual Progression Session set to begin mid Feb. Please let me know if you're interested in easing into kettlebells with other like minded folks.

To celebrating being who we are as we are.

xo, M

Interval Training! Glory Be!

2010-01-12T06:10:00.000-08:00

Hello Loved Ones,

Let's talk about something that I'm sure you're all well aware of, but may not know how accessible this is to you.

Interval training! Yes! More calories burned, less time = fabulous.

"Interval training can supercharge your fitness, boost your metabolism, burn off that extra fat and start reaching those goals that you have set yourself." (http://www.intervaltraining.net)

Interval training consists of short bursts of higher intensity exercise followed with either lower intensity exercise or brief rest.

Interval training is, "the quickest way to get fit, lose fat and supercharge for sports performance." (http://www.intervaltraining.net)

Hmmm...short bursts, high intensity, brief rest...sounds a lot like kettlebells!

So if you forgot that interval training is in your back yard come out for a visit Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm and Saturday at 9:30am.

You may more easily achieve all those New Years resolutions that you didn't set ;).

To refreshing your memory.

xo, M

Mio Destino

2010-01-04T05:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year My Darlings!

I don't know about you all, but the end of this calendar year actually did feel like we were rounding a corner.

So, what I ask you is different?

Has anything become clearer? Or less comfortable? Are you excited about something on the horizon? Is change happening in general?

I do hope things are going your way, or getting shifted around and mixed up if they're not.

Because you see, (I believe) we all have a destiny. It's pretty much guaranteed not to be a straight course, but there is a fixed nature to it all.

Now listening to the call of that pull is not mandatory, but our higher self can make things pretty unpleasant when we don't.

You know what feels good, and when the universe says "YES!". Let those signs be your guide and harmony and joy is sure to follow.

So, are kettlebells part of your destiny? Perhaps, or perhaps the magical power of motion will help you get mentally clear in order to see those sign posts. Use and abuse the kettlebell people! It is not a single purpose tool.

Whatever your agenda - come Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm, and Saturday at 9:30am to get closer to your path. That is if you're not on it already ;).

**Any interest in another 6 week session for easing into kettlebells ?? Please let me know. Happy to make it happen :).

**Check out this month's RI Monthly for some Kettlebella action. Much love and appreciation to our very own elite writer Jamie Samons for the hook up.

xo, M

(almost) New Year, New You, New Time (1 day only)

2009-12-28T05:48:00.000-08:00

Hello Love Bugs,

The days are dwindling that make up the rest of 2009. Amazing that a new year is almost upon us!

I realize that this may feel more like a time of hibernation than creation, but perhaps the cold and darkness can also make it a time of reflection and an arena to start to cultivate your desires for the coming year.

Now, not so fast! I too am definitely of the New Years Resolution Semesoltion :P camp. Empty promises to ourselves that we never fully intend to keep just plain suck. They tend to result us in feeling more poorly about our ability to achieve our goals than if we had never made them in the first place.

What I'm wondering (and proposing) is if we can actually harness this time of beginning again and truly come from a place of being another year older and another year wiser?

I desire to do this very thing.

So let's be gentle w/ ourselves in this coming year. Let's focus on what we've learned and use that to help us move towards what we want and deserve in our lives.

Come and bridge the New Year from your learned place and strengthen your body and your resolve to get you what it is you desire.

This week the party is only happening Tuesday the 29th at 6:30, and SATURDAY the 2ND at 10:45!!! (Little time shift to eliminate excuses from the result of an overly joyous New Years Eve celebration).

Looking forward to swinging with all you sages.

xo, M

Tuesday Saturday, Tuesday Saturday

2009-12-21T05:38:00.000-08:00

Yes Darlings!

>

> Tis the schedule for this week and the next!

>

> So, let's take the guess work out of when you'll be attending.

> Tuesday Saturday, Tuesday Saturday.

>

> Helpful mantra to keep you centered and focused? Tuesday Saturday,

> Tuesday Saturday.

>

> Bright spots in your week to keep you going? Tuesday Saturday,

> Tuesday Saturday.

>

> Set days to help you create that calorie deficit that you may

> require?... Tuesday Saturday, Tuesday Saturday.

>

> Dates to ensure your fitness does not slip around the holidays?

> Tuesday Saturday, Tuesday Saturday.

>

> Time to visit and have fun w/ other like minded kettlebellers?

> Tuesday Saturday, Tuesday Saturday.

>

> So whatever your reason,

> come this week on Tuesday 12/22 at 6:30pm and Saturday 12/26 at 9:30am

> (also last Wednesday 12/23 at 6:30 for my Phase II ladies :(...)

> AND next week on Tuesday 12/29 at 6:30pm and Saturday 1/2 (eek!) at

> 9:30am.

>

> Repetition is the the route to mastery y'all. How about giving

> yourself that gift this year?

>

> With bells on!

> xo, M

>

Tis the Season

2009-12-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

Yes Lovely Kettlebellers,

Tis the Season! Tis the Season to do more, to stay out late, to eat, drink and be merry!

Tis.

Oh what fun! You say? Yes, if fun stays fun, and doesn't turn to fatigue or feeling overloaded...

So, do do it up. Go out! Stay in! Have fun w/ your friends and loved ones - but for heavens sake, take care of you all the while.

For tree trimming, or menorah lighting, or general toasting w/ libations is way more fun when all your cylinders are firing.

Where to get that energy if you are running on fumes?
Sleep. Then Eat. Third on the list is Kettlebells. Fabulous formula.

So, come Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm and Saturday at 9:30am.
(also Wednesday at 6:30 for our steadfast "Phase II" participants, 2 more weeks only!)

Come if you're in the holiday spirit! Or especially if you're not and need a little rekindling of your spirit.

To providing a warm and sweaty place out from the cold.
xo, M

EAT EVERYTHING!

2009-11-23T07:49:00.000-08:00

Alright My Darlings,

We all know that Thanksgiving (and the holidays) is a time of celebration, indulging, and often feeling deeply guilty about what we've filled our overstuffed bellies w/.

Well, let's get rid of some of that harmful nonsense before it even begins.

Rather than freak out about being surrounded by a tapestry of seductively delicious (and believed to be "bad') food, enjoy it. That's right, enjoy it, and EAT EVERYTHING!

When you allow yourself to have what it is you "think" (we'll get back to that in a min) you want, it takes all the power out of that French Apple Tart with Creme Brulee ice cream, and gives it back to you.

When you stop wrestling w/ the mind, you get a chance to be in your body, and have that give you feedback about when it's hungry, what it craves, and most importantly when it's FULL.

Your body won't steer you wrong, I promise you that. So give it a whirl this week, see what happens. Put the real driver back behind the wheel. The ride you experience may really give you something to be grateful for.

Oh, and kettlebells! ;)

No class on Turkey Day, but intense body awareness will be taking place Tuesday @ 6:30pm, and Saturday @ 9:30am.

Have a glorious Thanksgiving and know that the biggest thing you have to be grateful for is you.

In Gratitude.
xo, M

The Athlete Within

2009-11-09T07:47:00.000-08:00

Hello Darlings,

We all seem to think that some individuals are born better at one thing or another. While that may indeed be true, chances are those talents and skills have been cultivated somewhere along the line.

Children are shaped by their environments, and tend to bring that into their adult life. So if education, sports, or being shy was emphasized in your family - chances are you may have kept to that path.

So who cares? Right. Well, not so fast...

How you see yourself, and what you see as being possible is simply based on what's been established (by you, or someone else). The glorious part is that you have an opportunity to cultivate whatever you want NOW.

So what if you've never aced a test or run a 5k or spoken to a roomful of strangers?!? Just because you've never done it, or never FELT like you could do it - doesn't mean it's true.

I just want to remind you that what you desire to be/do is already in you. It may need some nurturing, but it's already there.

Now what's so cool about using that mental part to your advantage is that it gets you closer to being that 4.0 student, that athlete, or to that confident individual brimming with personality.

So if being a physical super star is your goal, let's help it grow!
Tuesday's and Thursday's at 6:30pm and Saturday's at 9:30am.
(Don't forget my lovely Pool Party attendees Wednesday's at 6:30pm - 2 more weeks left!)

And if that's not your deepest desire, come anyway. All other achievements can be obtained through the consistent usage of kettlebells ;).

To You!
xo, M

Location, Location, Location!

2009-11-06T12:44:00.001-08:00

That right My Darlings,

Where you "are" mentally is crucial to everything. Being focused on your strengths and the gifts in your life can get you clear and joyous, while the negatives can send you to an emotional Siberia.
It's really quite incredible.

Focus on crap = Feel like crap.
Focus on the gemstones = Feel like a jewel!

So why, I ask you, would one consciously choose to put themselves amidst a pile of debris while you could just as easily be placed on top of the world w/ the sun shining warmly on your beautiful face?

What is clear is that when you choose to fill your mind and sight w/ what's right w/ you, you get to be here! Right now! Benefit being? It's easier to make decisions that really benefit you, and get you closer to what you truly desire.

So go ahead, give it a whirl! See what a little gratitude and self-acknowledgment will get you. Heck, it might even get you swinging and sweating w/ a kettlebell Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm, and Saturday (now until forever) at 9:30am. (Wednesday at 6:30pm too for my lovely ladies!)

My guess it will be worth well more than your original investment.

To Reclaiming Prime Mind Real Estate.
xo, M

The Class's A**

2009-11-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hello My Darlings,

A dear and wise friend (and Kettlebeller!) recently helped me shift my perception around what a great workout actually does for someone.

I've heard (and requested) demands for butt kickings in order to feel a sense of accomplishment at the end.

HOWEVER, having your derriere handed to you does not always result in a feeling of satisfaction, NOR does it necessarily make you want to do that bloom in' workout again!

What my lovely sage illuminated for me was that butt kicking SHOULD indeed happen in a workout, you just want to make sure it's the workout's backside that catches the rap.

So make that happen when you exercise, whether it's in yoga, cycling, or kettlebells. Own what your doing. Own you in what you're doing. You CAN tame the mat, rule the road, and rock the kettlebell! At any stage. Because pretty babies, that workout is yours.

So, let's bring it on! - Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm, Wednesday at 6:30pm (for my budding kettlebell divas), and Saturday at 9:30am.

Ready to witness the empowerment.

All My Love.
xo, M