Supersets, Cake, Core Strengthening

Tip of the Day: Supersets

Converting the exercises in your workout routine into supersets is a great way to keep moving. Do a set of one exercise, and withouth stopping, to a set of another exercise. Then rest a bit before repeating. We're told by some people to rest between sets, but doing supersets will bump up your calorie burn, and it'll also add some cardio to your strength training!

Healthy Recipe: Pudding Cake

I know, it sounds delicious, but full of guilt. Well, it's not! It's 142 calories/serving. I haven't tried this recipe yet, but I've been craving chocolate cake today, so I thought I'd find a healthier version. This is from one of my favorite sites "Eating Well".

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup nonfat milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup pecan halves, toasted (see Tip)
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 1/3 cups hot strong coffee (optional)

-Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly coat an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
-Stir together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder and salt in a large bowl.

-Combine milk, egg, oil and vanilla in a glass measuring cup.

-Make a well in center of the dry ingredients and gradually pour in the milk mixture, stirring until combined.

-Stir in pecans.

-Spoon into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
-Dissolve brown sugar in coffee; spoon over batter.

-Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, about 25 minutes.

-Let stand for 10 minutes; serve hot or warm.

*How to toast pecans

-Spread nuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F, stirring once, until fragrant, 7 to 9 minutes.

Delish.

Exercise: Core Strengthening

Core strength is so important not just while exercising, but doing any kind of sport as well. It really helps the balance of your body, and helps you to perform at your best. Your technique will be in tip top shape, which will prevent you from any injury, and help you get the most out of your workout! Here's an example of a great core strengthening exercise move:

Side Pillar

Lie on your left side with your forearm on the floor under your shoulder, and your feet stacked together. Push your hip off the floor, creating a straight line from ankle to shoulder and keeping your head in line with your spine. Pause for 1 to 2 seconds, then lower yourself and repeat. After you've completed your repetitions, lie on your right side and repeat.

To get the most out of this move, really tighten your core/abs while doing this.

Sneak Peek: I found thi great cleanse diet! I want to try it before I post it, so I'll post it by next Saturday...So stay tuned!