Remembering “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood”

You may not remember what you were watching on television 44 years ago today, but if you were about my age, say 2-5 years old, you were probably watching the debut of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.  This first-of-its-kind “television visit” with Fred Rogers helped children develop their imagination, creativity, cooperation and self-esteem.  The show was theme-based, slow and simple.  However deceiving these qualities can be, the Neighborhood was a tremendous success.  Interestingly, my 5 Minute Fat Burning Workouts are also theme-based, slow and simple.  But don’t be deceived. Because you now have 88 different – and effective – workout themes to choose from, including today’s Screaming Abs II.  So thanks for the memories & RIP Mister Rogers. – Rich

It’s never easy

Sunday's Fat Burning Workout

You’ll never hear me say that developing and maintaining a daily fitness program is easy.  It just gets easier to keep it going.  And more rewarding each time you workout, whatever you do.  Like today vs. yesterday.  Yesterday I felt like someone ran me over with a steamroller – you know the feeling. I barely made my 20 minute stretching and abs, but I made it.  Today I felt like a million bucks!  I hit the gym for an hour, then went for a 2-mile run at the Silver Lake Reservoir, then taught an 11a yoga class.  And I’m 47 and lived a party lifestyle until I gave up alcohol three years ago.  So change does happen if you really want it to.  It’s never easy, but in the case of a daily fitness routine, it’s well worth it.  So if you haven’t started one already, well let’s get going.  Because with each passing day your body is not getting any younger, or firmer, or leaner, or stronger, or more flexible without doing something. So make that something the most important 1% of your life.  See you tomorrow – R

Self-confidence

Yesterday I went to San Diego to teach with The Boulevard Zen Foundation yoga teachers Carolyn and Jen.  It was our monthly workshop class for everyone at the shelter including kids, moms and staff.  Although our turnout was rather light, we spoke with one staff member who explained to us in one word why the moms were reluctant to join in the fun.  Self-confidence.  Most of us know a thing or two about self-confidence, or a lack thereof, when it comes to challenging the mind or the body with something new.  And that’s exactly what a new fitness program does – it challenges the mind and body in ways that are unfamiliar to us.  Thus making it hard and undesirable – at first.  With the imperative words here being “at first”.  Because it gets easier.  It truly does.  The hard part is just getting started.  I explained to her that beginning a new yoga program with our teachers is like swimming in the ocean.  At first you walk in with the water around your ankles.  Then you wade a little further, up to your knees, then waist, and ultimately you’ll take the plunge and dive in.  And if you’re fearful of those crashing waves, you may not take the plunge right away, but over time you will gain the confidence to go further, advancing to the next level, gaining momentum and confidence every step of the way.  And that’s what it’s all about – gaining self-confidence through action and advancement that will certainly spill over and positively affect others areas of your life.  So if you haven’t already done so, take the plunge and get started today with a new fat burning fitness routine.  Because who doesn’t have 15 minutes a day to respect themselves?