Java Loving Dieter Rejoice

Lauren from Boon and Boys enjoys the benefits of coffee as part of her workout routine. Watch her multitasking  her workout and her java time @booneandboys on Instagram. Then check out how to Multitask Your Workout for more inspiration.

 

Great news! That cup of coffee you enjoy so much might actually help you lose weight! Not only is coffee low in calories (about 2 calories a cup) but the caffeine in a cup of coffee can boost metabolism, stimulate thermogenesis, suppress your appetite, and give you the energy boost to get more out of your workout. At just 16 cents a cup for home brew that’s one bargain workout-booster! Treating yourself to coffee out will feel like a bargain too when you remember all that your cup of coffee can do.

There are some coffee cautions though. For best results remember to drink even your favorite beans in moderation. Too much caffeine can increase your stress levels and cause you to have trouble sleeping, both of which are counter productive for weight loss and performance. How much is enough? Try shooting for three or four cups of coffee spread throughout your day. Maybe you would benefit from one cup before your morning workout and one before each meal. Experiment to see what works best for you. Also, remember that when it comes to coffee for weight loss – black may be best. Creamer and sugar add extra calories and when you are working to loose weight, every calorie counts! There are some nice alternatives out there if you do want to spice up your morning coffee. Try spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Sugar free syrups can cut the calories and still give a flavor punch. Skim milk or soy milk are popular lower calorie creamer alternatives. Interested in turning your morning coffee into a protein source? I just found out about Ripped Cream, a great new alternative packing 80 calories but also adding 6 grams of protein to your coffee-break. That’s a great protein punch for the calorie trade off. So enjoy your favorite grind or blend your way, knowing it just might help you reach your weight loss goals!

 

 

 

 

Multitask Your Workout

Above is one of the most impressive multitaskers on Instagram. Check out more of Amanda Bruce’s photos – @weirdomandys

 

 

Like me, you might be having a hard time finding time for all you need to do? Dread exercise and need a good distraction to get you through? Love workouts but love time with loved ones too and don’t want to have to choose. Multitasking workouts might be for you!

Have errands to run? Try literally running downtown. Once you get there power walk from one chore to the next. Need to catch up on email or want to watch your favorite television show? Try doing either or both while on the treadmill. Have a desk job? Place a pedal machine under your desk or use the thigh-master while you work. Want to make the most of your time doing housework? In my teens read in a magazine that actress Loni Anderson did ab flexes while washing dishes. How about a housework race? See how fast you can do the chores and how many steps you can get in. Live near work? Try walking or riding your bike instead of taking the car. Bored stiff by planks? Try reading an e-book while you work your core. Fido need to stretch his legs? Of course taking him for a walk or a run would be a great idea. How about adding in a game of Frisbee? Want to spend quality time with the kids? Try going on a roller skating outing like my hubby and kids use to do or play a game of backyard football. Amanda Bruce has made an art out of exercising while playing with the kids as you see above. Want to catch up with friends? Go for a hike while you talk.

Want more good news? The benefits of multitasking your workout go beyond just your time savings and making exercise more bearable. According to an article on mentalfloss.com multitasking may boost your performance as well. “In a study from the University of Florida, adults who were asked to complete mental tasks while pedaling on stationary bikes were shown to move faster with no negative impact on their cognitive performance” – Michele Debczak, Mental Floss (follow Michelle on Twitter). No more excuses! Workout while you catch up on all those other great things you do!

 

Amanda Bruce stretching while enjoying intimate time nursing her baby.

Multitasking at it’s most acrobatic – the amazing Brittany Walsh playing with her cat while practicing.