I’ll be honest, I was a little skeptical about the Shrink Session workouts. Having spent the majority of my career thus far in finance, the idea of chanting motivational phrases through my workout just seemed cheesy and strange. Still, I went to my first Shrink Session with an open mind and was amazed at what I discovered.
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Health Food Trends to Follow
From gluten-free to 100% natural, there are a lot of buzz words appearing on food packaging these days. However, it can be difficult to know which health food trends are worth following and which ones to skip. See our favorites below.
Photo by Sweet on Veg
Quinoa
Quinoa contains all 9 essential amino acids, making it a complete source of protein; one cup of quinoa contains 8 grams of protein. Compared to other grains, quinoa has almost twice as much fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer, and is also a good source of iron, magnesium and riboflavin. Erin Stutland, creator of Shrink Session, hopes the quinoa trend is here to stay because it is so healthy for you. However, she suggests preparing it at home as you can often make the same dish yourself for much cheaper.
Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are preserved by natural bacteria feeding off the carbohydrates in the food, which produces lactic acid. The result is the creation of probiotics and healthful enzymes, which help improve gut health and boost the immune system. Fermentation also helps break down the food, making it easier to digest. Examples of fermented foods include sauerkraut, pickles, miso, kefir, and Kombucha tea.
Photo by Breville
Green Juice
Erin hopes people will continue to enjoy green juice after the trend fades, as it is good for everyone. It can be difficult to consume the recommended amount of vegetables per day, but green juice makes it easy to get the nutrients you need. Green juice can also help expand the variety of vegetables you eat, which helps make sure you are getting a variety of vitamins and minerals.
Photo by Rubyran
Hemp Seeds
Chia seeds have had their time in the spotlight, and hemp seeds are beginning to become more popular. While there is room for a variety of seeds in your diet, hemp seeds contain 50% more protein than chia and flax seeds, making them a great option for those who don’t consume meat. They also contain both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help support brain function. Try them sprinkled on yogurt or blended into a smoothie.
Flexitarianism
Going meatless even one or two days a week can have benefits on your health as well as the environment. Flexitarians tend to have a lower BMI than meat-eaters. Additionally, omitting meat from your diet some or all of the time can help you consume less calories and fat, and lower your cholesterol. If you’re unsure about going vegetarianism, flexitarianism can be a great way to introduce more plant-based foods into your diet.
Photo by Malcolm Manners
Teff
Said to be the next quinoa, teff is a tiny seed grown in Ethiopia. Teff is actually the smallest grain in the world, but is packed with protein, calcium and iron. It can be substituted for wheat flour and is naturally gluten-free, making it a good option for those avoiding gluten.
Paleo Diet
The Paleo diet is based on the fact that our bodies haven’t changed since the Paleolithic times. On this diet, you’ll stick to eating like the cave people did, consuming a clean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, oils, meats and fish. The Paleo diet is beneficial as it is an easy way to avoid processed foods, and incorporates plenty of protein and healthy fats into your diet. The protein and healthy fats will help you feel full, so you’re able to stick to this natural way of eating.
5 Workout Trends Worth Trying
Trying a workout trend is a great way to mix up your exercise routine. Switching up your workouts is also a way to challenge your body and keep your muscles guessing, so you’ll see better results. Consider trying one of these trends to keep your fitness routine engaged.
SoulCycle
Jess from Big City Little Blog is into SoulCycle, a workout that takes spin to the next level by using music to keep you working hard and incoporating hand weights so you get a total body workout. Jess has been spinning for years, but feels the addition of DJ’s and disco balls creates a club environment that makes SoulCycle a fun way to get a great cardio and strength workout. SoulCycle classes are offered at Soul Cycle Studios, located throughout the United States.
Photo by Ben Bradshaw
Rowing
Rowing has been around for a while, but it’s growing in popularity, with some people even referring to it as the new spinning. The move of rowing is complex, which has great cardiovascular benefits. Additionally, rowing works your total body, from your arms, to your back, to your legs, making it a great way to build strength. Take a rowing class at a rowing studio like Row House or City Row, or try Shockwave at Equinox, a class that pairs circuit training with rowing.
Dance
Erin Stutland, creator of Shrink Session, loves that there is a big dance fitness trend happening right now. Not only is dance a fun workout, but it’s also great for your body. In addition to cardio, dance can help improve your coordination and boost your mood. Try Erin`s choreography in her Signature Dance Cardio Workout. If you’re looking to take an in-person class, try the Broadway Dance Center (hip-hop and theater classes are favorites), or 305 Fitness, which pairs dance with sports drills for a high intensity workout.
HIIT
Jenn, CEO and co-founder of Fit Bottomed Girls, finds HIIT workouts super rewarding. She says she loves that HIIT is both tough and short – she gives it her all for 15-25 minutes to reap great results like increased fat burning, improved cardiovascular health, and increased metabolism. Jenn’s favorite HIIT moves include pull-ups, ball slams, and tire flips. Try a class at The Fhitting Room. a studio specializing in HIIT workouts, or Uplift Studios, a women’s only facility with a popular HIIT class.
Military-Style Training
While extreme adventure races are getting more popular, military-style training brings this tough workout to your regular fitness routine. In addition to cardio and strength building drills, these classes have a great team environment that helps you push yourself. Try Pure Power Boot Camp or Warrior Fitness Boot Camp, both of which have classes taught by ex-military members.