Real Moms Real Views
Browse: Home / exercise

Jump-a-Roo! {JumpSport iBounce Kids Trampoline Review & Giveaway}

If you have small children, you know they are always on the move and have energy bubbling over! I swear, my two never seem to slow down and I am always looking for ways to get that energy burnt! It’s exhausting! I was so excited when I saw the JumpSport iBounce Kid’s Trampoline; I knew the kids would love it and it would be a great way for them to burn off that extra energy.
Let your little ones entertain themselves with a smile on their face! The JumpSport iBounce Kid’s trampoline is a fun and engaging way for toddlers to exercise! Their personal-sized trampoline will provide them with years of fun, safe and energetic bouncing. This is something they will use every day and it is easily assembled in as little as 15 minutes! The bungee cords provide a soft and lively bounce while the handle bar adds stability so little ones can work on their balance and motor skills. With a JumpSport iBounce Tablet Mount, your kids will be able to exercise while watching the Hop-Along with RompyRoo video – also available as an eBook on most platforms. Let the grand adventures begin! Height of handle: 34 inches from the floor. User weight limit: 80lbs
As soon as the JumpSport iBounce Kids Trampoline arrived, both of my kiddos were intrigued! They were so excited for me to get it all put together so they could start their hippity hopping! I decided it was a great day for it as it was rainy out and we were going to be stuck inside all day! Bravely, I pulled out all the pieces, made sure I had everything and got started; with two little helpers. Now, I am not great at assembling things and usually leave that up to my husband, but I really wanted to see if I could put this together. I was impressed with the sturdiness of the trampoline and felt totally comfortable putting it together. The instructions were clear and it all came together pretty simply, although it did take me quite a while. But, like I said, I rarely do these types of projects and was really proud of myself for getting it all completed, especially with my two “helpers”. When I saw the smiles across my children’s faces I knew it was time well spent and they were ready to try out their new trampoline. We popped in their Hop-A-Long with Rompy Roo DVD and they started jumping along with this adorable kangaroo. The DVD is a great add on to the trampoline! The kids go with Rompy Roo on an adventure. Along the adventure they do several different exercises, and the count them out. It is totally interactive, educational, and fun! I was pleasantly surprised with the mega bounce of this trampoline! The combination of the padded handles and the bungee cords really give it a good spring. My two love the DVD, they love the trampoline and jump all day long; it’s the first thing they do in the morning. It has been days and they are still jumping constantly! I love it; no more bouncing off the walls, they are bouncing on their iBounce Kid’s Trampoline. Yay! This trampoline even has a cool tablet mount you can put on the handlebar of the trampoline. We don’t have a tablet {yet}, so I left it off. I am setting it in a safe place as I’m sure we’ll be getting one sometime soon and we can put the mount to good use. The iBounce Kid’s Trampoline is a great indoor toy offering fun play and exercise for your little balls of energy!
Included with bundle:
JumpSport iBounce Kids Trampoline
JumpSport iBounce Tablet Mout.
Hop-A-Long with Rompidy Roo DVD

Today, JumpSport is giving away one iBounce Kids Trampoline! {$129 value}

Want to enter to win? Here’s how!
Mandatory 1st entry:

1) Check out JumpSport and tell us a feature you love about this trampoline!

Once the mandatory entry is completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

3 entries-Follow RMRV on Pinterest

Follow Me on Pinterest

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

3 entries- “Like” JumpSport on Facebook.

3 entries – “Like” Rompy Roo on Facebook.

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

3 entries: Follow RMRV Google+.

2 entries – Follow RMRV on Twitter.

2 entries: Follow JumpSport on Twitter.

1 entry per day-Tweet this giveaway and leave us your tweet url.

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link.

The JumpSport iBounce Kids Trampoline is Real Mom Recommended!

You have until May 24th @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

 

Amanda May 10, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , , ,

Best Workout Buddy. {Gymboss Review & Giveaway}

I have my mind set that I am going to get this body in tip top shape…whatever it takes, I’ll do it! It seems summer has already arrived here in Texas and I see many lake and pool days in our future. It is already so HOT! I want to look and feel my best so I’m doing all I can to tone and lean up ASAP! With the help of the Gymboss, it is easier to focus on my workouts and not count reps or stare at the clock! My workouts are flying by and I love it!
The Gymboss will make any make any workout easier to plan and execute with more accuracy and consistency. The Gymboss interval timer will give your workout the discipline and structure necessary to take your workout to the next level. This easy to use timer will allow you to control intensity and allow you to focus on the workout to get the best results possible!
I found a wonderful free workout website through Facebook one day. They create daily free workouts and I have been loving it. They use the Gymboss timer in all their workouts, as they are interval based. I knew I had to get my hands on one of these timers as it really made their workouts flow. I was thrilled to receive a pink Gymboss and immediately had to get it all set up for my daily workouts! It was so simple to set up! There are detailed instructions on what you need to do to set your timer and it is very simple. I got to work right away with my Gymboss clipped to my waistband.  I was in disbelief at how much this little interval timer simplified my workout. I was able to focus on my exercises so much more and love the fluidity between movements and exercises the Gymboss allows. If you do any type of interval based workouts or are looking to switch up your workouts, the Gymboss is for you and is available in a variety of gorgeous colors!
Gymboss Facts & Functions:
  • 1 or 2 intervals – 2 seconds to 99 minutes
  • Repeat up to 99 times
  • Beep and/or Vibrate alarm
  • Alarm duration 1, 5, or 10 seconds
  • Stopwatch function
  • Secure Belt clip
  • Compact Size (1 ¾ x 2 ¼ x ½ inches)
  • Water and shock resistant
  • AAA battery required

Today, Gymboss is giving away one Gymboss to one lucky RMRV reader!

Want to enter to win? Here’s how!
Mandatory 1st entry:

1) Check out Gymboss and tell us which color is your favorite and why you want to win.

Once the mandatory entry is completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

3 entries-Follow RMRV on Pinterest

Follow Me on Pinterest

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

3 entries- “Like” Gymboss facebook.

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

3 entries: Follow RMRV Google+.

2 entries – Follow RMRV on Twitter.

2 entries: Follow Gymboss on Twitter.

1 entry per day-Tweet this giveaway and leave us your tweet url.

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link.

Gymboss is Real Mom Recommended!

You have until May 22nd @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

Guide to Healthcare Schools is a good way to learn lifelong health and wellness.

Amanda May 8, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , ,

Watch them Glide! {Mini Glider review & giveaway}

My little guy loves to be outside. He would live outside if I let him… and he’s only 18 months right now. When he gets older, I have no doubt he is going to love being outside even more because he will be able to do ALL kinds of cool things! One thing I am super excited about for him is bike riding. I remember as a kid that was probably my favorite thing to do! I remember learning how to ride too. I remember the falls I took while learning to balance and the fear of crashing as I couldn’t stop fast enough. That is one thing I am NOT excited for my little guy to experience. But, there is a solution to all of that! A balance bike!! Balance Bikes 4 Kids motto is “just say NO to training wheels.”  They believe that the balance bike is the best way to teach your child to ride a bike because it puts the focus on the most important skill first…balance! I was generously sent a mini glider to try out for my little munchkin.

The Mini Glider from Glide Bikes is a quality balance bike built for safety and fun. It’s a popular choice for parents seeking a balance bike that can accomodate very young riders because its very light (8 lbs) and has a seat that lowers to 12″. In addition to its light weight and low seat, the bike includes turn limiters, padded handlebars and stem and other safety features not seen in similar balance bikes in the same price range.

The perfect bike for kids age 2 – 5, the Mini Glider from Glide Bike weighs in at under 8 lbs making it easy to maneuver for even the youngest of riders. On the Mini Glider, your child is guaranteed to develop the motor skills and confidence to easily transition to a traditional pedal bike. The only thing that might slow that transition down is their love of the Mini Glider and the freedom it offers to roam on road and off. Unlike heavy pedal bikes, the Mini Glider is so easy to ride on grass or up hills that kids cherish it like a favored toy even after they’ve learned to ride their pedal bike.

This blue Mini Glider offers incredible stability and balance even at speeds of less than 2 mph thanks to a design that mimics the geometry of a downhill mountain bike. The 65 degree tilt of the seat puts the riders weight over the back tire, improving balance even at very low speeds.

Glide Bike’s Mini Glider has a seat that lowers down to 12″, allowing kids as young as two to firmly plant their feet on the ground and “walk” the bike as they start to learn. This activity is far more productive than pedaling around on a tricycle that does nothing to promote the mastery of balance. The Mini Glider lets kids explore their ability to balance in a way that’s safer than a bike with training wheels because they always feel in control and never have to worry that the bike will wobble or flip. Your basic pedal bike sits too high off the ground, weighs too much and complicates the learning process. For many kids, that means learning to ride a bike is more about fear than fun and that’s no good. Skip the training wheels and let your little rider experience the freedom of a balance bike.

The Mini Glider balance bike from Glide Bike offers your child a fun way to learn how to ride a bike puts the emphasis on balance and steering first.

My little guy probably won’t be ready for this bike for at least a couple more months, (I’m hoping by the end of summer!), but I am so impressed by the ideas and safety that goes into these bikes! If you don’t know how they work, just take a look at this cool video that shows a balance bike in action! This balance bike is REAL Mom Recommended and I’m so excited for my little guy to take his first ride! Balance bikes are available online!

 

Today Balance Bikes 4 Kids is generously giving away Mini Glider

in your color choice!

 

Want to win?  Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry- Visit Balance bikes 4 kids then come back and tell us your favorite item or something you learned from their website.

 

Once the mandatory entries are completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

4 entries-“Like” balance bikes 4 kids on facebook.

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

3 entries-Follow balance bikes 4 kids on Twitter.

2 entries- Follow RMRV on Twitter

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

#Enter to win a mini glider at @agiveawaydaily

5 entries- Blog about this entry and leave us the link

3 entries- Add RMRV on Google +

 

You have until April 20th @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

Audrey April 6, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , , ,

Hot Mama- Part Deux (Zaggora CapriFlares reivew} #hotinhotpants

 

Here we are at the end of March. I don’t know about you, but the year is already racing along! Spring is just around the corner, at least here in my area, but my mind is already looking months ahead for summer. I always kind of consider Spring the “get ready” season. Get ready for summer and swimsuits and shorts and less clothing! This summer I am going to be doing baby swim classes with my little munchkin, so I plan to be spending quite a bit of time at the pool. And you know what that means… wanting to look good in that swimsuit! Now, if you are like me, you are always happy to have ANY advantage against the battle of the (mommy) belly bulge. If you remember a few months ago, I talked about a “secret weapon” I was using to get ready for holiday parties and my trip to Mexico. You can read about that here. I am excited to share that Zaggora, the same great company that introduced me to Hot Pants…aka, my secret weapon, has come out with some new additions to their line of sweat inducing, cellulite burning, thigh, tummy and hip sculpting pants. They are Flares and Capri Flares. I was generously given my choice of the two to try and I went with the Capri Flares.  Zaggora is based in England and hit the market this past July. Their products are designed to help you loose inches and also to decrease the appearance of cellulite. There is a 2 week challenge that the company issues to all who get these.  Lose 2 jean sizes in 2 weeks, doing the same routine, eating the same diet but wearing the product while you work out. Here’s the scoop on how these Hot babies work!

Now for the disclaimer: This next part will be brutally honest! (Don’t say I didn’t warn ya!) :-)

Knowing how Hot Pants work, I was super excited to get these babies on and get moving. I had some surgery in January, which put me out for about 6 weeks. As a result, I lost a little bit of the results I worked so hard for before a trip to Mexico in January. A little softer in the tummy, a couple pounds, a little more top on the muffin… ya know what I mean? I have been aching to get rid of all that, so this was just the ticket to get me really movin’ again! I love the fit of the Capri Flares. They come up high on the tummy, so that gets included too, and hit just above mid-calf. The first time I worked out in them, boy…. If I was sweatin’ before, it was nothing to this. It was literally running down my legs into my shoes! (I warned you!) Now, for some of you, sweat may be about the grossest thing in the world.  But I have just come to accept it as the price for a great workout and even better results! Just be prepared to sweat!… A LOT…. Nuff said!! :-) I didn’t change my eating habits at all, and I worked out 4 days the first week and 5 days the second week. I wore them from morning to before bed, through the workout, then put on my other Hot Pants while I washed the Capri Flares. These pants are special, kind of like wetsuit material, so they must be washed on the hand wash cycle and dried without heat. After two weeks of wearing them, here are the results: I’m down 1.25″ in my hips and 1″ in my waist. I didn’t loose anything on my thighs, but I didn’t gain anything back from before. (I kept my measurements from the previous time!) And if that isn’t enough, I have a pair of jeans that were fitting great before the surgery but were getting tight again. :-( I tried them on the day I started the challenge, yes they were t-i-g-h-t, and then tried them on again this morning… HOORAY! They are have some room in them again! (And NO! I hadn’t washed them right before I tried them on the first time!):-)  I am so excited! Now, results do vary, but I am so happy and I know they will work for you! These are my honest opinions. I didn’t receive any compensation from the company, other than the Capri Flares. I’ve already been telling people about these. My Sis got two pairs LOVES them!! These Capri Flares are  Real Mom Recommended and I cannot wait to continue wearing them! These are just the ticket for any summer vaca’s coming up, weddings… hhmm, maybe your own perhaps, ( sure wish I’d had me some Zaggora clothing before my wedding!), or if you just want to look good at the pool or in your summer clothes! THANK YOU Zaggora!

Currently Zaggora only sells online, but I’ve seen on their Facebook page they are planning on coming to the US soon! There are also tons of other testimonials to check out on their FB page! And for even more fun, follow them on twitter.

Now, you too can get a head start with Zaggora clothing. Enter REALMOMS at checkout

for 10% off your order.

Audrey March 30, 2012 DISCOUNTS, PRODUCT REVIEWS , , , ,

Cool Those Aches & Pains {Bengay review}

 

Who out there has aches and pains from… from what? Sitting at a desk all day that results in a neck and shoulders that are as tight as rocks and feel as hot as coals? Lifting kiddos and then having said kiddo glued to that hip that results in a lower back that is screaming by the end of a day and spasms when you finally lay down? Maybe even getting some exercise in and having your knees sore and tender from running? How about all of the above? If that sounds like you… you are in luck! I recently had the opportunity to try Bengay’s new line of cold therapy. I was generously sent the cold therapy gel and also the pain relief + massage gel to try.

I am a licensed massage therapist. I still see clients out of my home, so I see my share of aches and pains coming through my door. I have this pain relieving gel that is professional strength and I was very curious to see how the Bengay compared to it! I was super impressed!!!! It was so similar I may not have been able to tell if I had put them both on at the same time! :-)

The cold therapy and pain relief + massage are both super cooling, thanks to Bengay’s pro- cool technology, which includes menthol, the secret ingredient! I have been struggling with some knee pain related to exercise, and let me tell you, both of these hit the spot. I felt the cooling sensation kick in within about 5 or so minutes and after that felt relief.

The pain relief + massage gel is perfect to keep by the bed. Perhaps a “willing” hubby or significant other would be up for rubbing  some on your shoulders and neck before bed?? The little massage head is perfect for that!! ( As I’m typing I’m fantasizing about how good that would feel! I’ll be asking my hubby for sure tonight!!) :-) How about even returning the favor as well to sweeten the deal!!

I am so excited to have discovered these little gems! These gels come REAL Mom Recommended and I will definitely be referring them to my massage clients in the future as well! Thanks Bengay!  Be sure to visit them online for coupons! The full line of Bengay products are available at retailers nationwide.

Audrey January 23, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS , , , ,

The Ultimate Fun Board! {Spooner Boards Review & Giveaway}

Spooner Boards look like loads of fun! I saw them before the holidays online and knew they would be a hit with my two children! Spooner Boards facilitate a wide variety of activities and can be used indoors or outdoors! Perfect for all seasons, interests, and ages! Truly the board created for everyone!

Using the Spooner Board, riders of all abilities can pretend they are catching a wave, riding the slopes, or burning up the asphalt without leaving the comfort of the family room. Designed for beginners, kids starting at age 3 can simulate spins, twists, slides, wobbles, and more, while getting a workout, stabilizing their core and improving their balance and coordination. The Spooner is becoming increasingly popular with school physical education departments because of the fun and safe, high-quality workout it provides and its virtually indestructible construction. Comes in seven seriously cool colors: blue, red, green, purple, orange, yellow, black.

Spooner Boards encapsulate a variable mass of definitions of fun, health, recreation, and innovative design. Unlike traditional skateboards, which require large spaces, or snowboards which require winter conditions, the Spooner Board allows kids and adults to practice all the techniques of both sports in a space no larger than a 4-foot cubicle. Spooner Boards break the boundaries of limitations! No matter weather conditions, environment, or location, you can use a Spooner Board! Even on the snow for sledding and boarding. The Spooner is guaranteed for life! If your Spooner Board ever breaks, it will be replaced. Spooner Boards have no weight limit and come in 2 different sizes, making them a perfect toy for the entire family. Spooner Boards are widely used in physical education departments and are great exercise. As children are playing they are improving core strength, coordination, and gross motor skills. Parents and teachers can rest easy knowing the boards were designed with child and floor safety in mind. Spooner Boards are made in the USA and are safe for all ages 3 and up. The smaller of the 2 boards is the 24” Freestyle Spooner Board. The Freestyle Board is great for boarders under 4 feet tall, but can be used by taller riders too. The larger board is the 28” Pro Model Spooner Board. The Pro Model Board is great for boarders over 4 feet tall, but safe for all ages. Watch the videos to see kids of all age’s free styling on The Spooner!

The kids were so excited when our Spooner Boards arrived and couldn’t wait to try them out! Spooner Boards generously sent us two boards; the 24″ Freestyle and the 28″ Pro Model. I opened up the blue 24″ Freestyle Spooner Board first. It seems a bit more age appropriate for my littles as it is a bit shorter than the Pro Model making it more manageable for smaller children. It quickly became a favorite of both kids, especially Hollis. He is constantly standing on it, rocking on it, sitting on it, spinning, and  pretending he’s on a skateboard! It’s amazing to me how many different ways he has found to use it all on his own, offering tons of entertainment and keeping him active! We can play with the Spooner Board indoors as well as outdoors as it can be used on any surface! It is very easy to transport from one place to another and even Hollis can easily carry it around! Even I enjoy playing on the Spooner Board!  The Spooner Board is great fun and also offers a great exercise opportunity! When children are playing on their spooner board they are working all sorts of muscles and developing their gross motor skills! In an age where technology is a major source of entertainment for children, I love that Spooner Boards has created such a great toy for children of all ages; getting them outdoors and active!

Enter the code: 4061985 upon checkout and receive a discount from Spooner Boards!

Today Spooner Boards is giving away one awesome Spooner Board to one lucky winner!

Want to enter to win? Here’s how!

Mandatory 1st entry:

1) Check out Spooner Boards and check out one of their many videos showing the Spooner Board in action! Come back and tell us something you love about Spooner Boards!

—————————————————————————————————-

Once the mandatory entry is completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

3 entries: Subscribe to RMRV emails or RSS feed.

5 entries: Follow RMRV Google+.

1 entry: “Like” RMRV on Facebook!

1 entry: “Like” Spooner Boards on Facebook. {you can leave them a little love, if you wish!}

2 entries: Follow RMRV on Twitter.

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

#WIN a Spooner Board from Spooner Boards @agiveawaydaily!

2 entries: Comment on any non-giveaway post on RMRV!

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link.

5 entries: Make a purchase from Spooner Boards.

Spooner Boards are Real Mom Approved!!

{You have until February 1st @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.}

Amanda January 18, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , ,

Dynamic Duo. {Jockey Tech Terry Sports Bra & Purex CrystalsTropical Splash Review & Giveaway}

Well, we are  in the new year and I have been reading and chatting a lot with friends about resolutions and goals for the new year. It seems each year I am struggling to lose a few pounds and this year is no different. In an attempt to not go along with the crowd, instead of making losing weight a New Year’s resolution, one of my resolutions is to be healthier and work exercise in daily. Hopefully all those other benefits, like losing weight, will just be a result of a few positive changes! Jockey and Purex were so generous and sent me a Jockey Tech Terry Sports Bra and a bottle of Purex Crystals Tropical Splash Fabric Softeners to help me along my way to a healthier new year!

For more than 130 years, Jockey’s mission has been to satisfy the human need for comfort, so everything we do at Jockey, we do with you in mind. We hope you like our stuff, but more importantly, we hope you like how you feel when you wear our stuff.

I love workout clothing and sports bras can be so tricky. You want a sports bra that is breathable, comfortable, & supportive. It can be a challenge to find a well fitting sports bra with all these details, but Jockey has created a contender! I was sent a Jockey Tech Terry Sports bra in Black and have been loving wearing it during my new years workouts! The soft material is moisture wicking, keeping me cool and dry throughout my daily workouts! It has breathable mesh panels and even a convenient hidden key pocket! This sports bra is super comfortable, with it’s soft material and soft bottom band for comfortable support, I could really wear it all day long.
Purex Crystals Tropical Splash fabric softeners have been a fantastic addition to our laundry routine, especially when washing my workout clothes and my husbands work clothes. We all know how stinky workout clothes can get and my husband is a mechanic; I’m sure you can imagine how smelly and dirty his clothes get at work. Purex Crystals are 92% natural crystals that go in at the start of the wash, so they spend more time with your laundry infusing them with long-lasting freshness!  Sounds amazing, right?! Smells amazing, too! Your laundry will smell fresh and feel incredibly soft! Even Bo noticed a difference in how his clothes felt! Those are some powerful little crystals! I have been keeping my Jockey Tech Terry Sports Bra in beautiful shape by washing it with detergent and the Purex Crystals fabric softeners! The innovative Purex Crystals formula does not impact the sweat wicking of the sports bra, so I know washing with this fabric softener is keeping my sports bra in perfect condition!

The Jockey Tech Terry Sports Bra and Purex Crystals are both Real Mom approved!!

Today, Enter to win both the Jockey Tech Terry Sports Bra and the Purex Crystals; a wonderful combo!!

Want to enter to win? Here’s how!

Mandatory 1st entry:

1) Visit Jockey and check out their variety of products! Come back and tell us something you would love to have from their collection!!

—————————————————————————————————-

Once the mandatory entry is completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

3 entries: Head over and sign up for a 20% off coupon from Purex Crystals for Jockey products!

3 entries: Subscribe to RMRV emails or RSS feed.

5 entries: Follow RMRV Google+.

1 entry: “Like” RMRV on Facebook!

1 entry: “Like” Jockey on Facebook . {you can leave them a little love, if you wish!}

1 entry: “Like” Purex on Facebook. {you can leave them a little love, if you wish!}

2 entries: Follow RMRV on Twitter.

2 entries: Follow Jockey on Twitter.

2 entrie: Follow Purex on Twitter.

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

#WIN a Jockey Tech Terry Sports Bra and Purex Crystals from @jockey & @purex @agiveawaydaily!

2 entries: Comment on any non-giveaway post on RMRV!

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link.

5 entries: Make a purchase from Jockey.

{Jockey and Purex provided free samples of their products so I could review them. However, all of the opinions expressed here are my own. {You have until January 24th @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.}

Amanda January 10, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , ,

Raising the Bar! {The Bar Method Workout DVD Review}

Yep. It’s true. This mama is on a mission to get back that pre-pre baby bod…yes, the one I had before I found out I was pregnant with Ava {that would be my first baby} and decided to loosen the reigns on the workout and become less strict on the diet. Yes, those choices did not work in my favor and gradually, I just kind of let things go as I got busy with the kids and life and put myself on the back burner! But that’s okay, I know I can get back to where I want to be, taking care of myself, and The Bar Method generously sent me several of their workout DVD’s to keep me challenged and motivated on my way back to a strong and healthy body! I had heard several positive things from friends about The Bar Method and after my first workout it was very clear as to why! These workouts are challenging, effective, and had muscles burning in places I didn’t even know had muscles!

The Bar Method is a unique workout that utilizes ballet bar fitness techniques and draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training and physical therapy. It is the only bar workout that was designed under the guidance of physical therapists to ensure joint safety. The unique, non-impact exercises target all major muslce groups, improves posture ad increases physical grace. The result is a recognizable “Bar Method Body” that features sculpted arms, flat abs, a lifted seat and firm thighs.

Now fitness buffs can bring the bar home with them, thanks to three all new home DVD’s from Bar Method founder and creator Burr Leonard. According to Burr, “The Bar Method empowers you to push the limits of your potential for coordination, strength , beauty and mental toughness. It was my goal, while creating these at-home workouts, to give students and opportunity to have The Bar Method experience in their own home.”

The new Bar Method DVDs have been created for students of all fitness levels; one can choose from the beginner, advanced, or special pregnancy workout options. A bonus section featured on all three DVDs includes a how-to section on classic Bar Method exercises presented by Bar Method founder Burr Leonard. Users also have the option to select specific sections of the workout which focus on different target areas of the body. Each Bar Method DVD features some of the BAr method’s best master instructors forma round the country.

The Bar Method generously sent me five of their workout DVDs; Super Sculpting, Super Sculpting II, Beginners Workout, Dancer’s Body Advanced Workout, & Pregnancy Workout. All are designed to work your muscles using isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training and physical therapy resulting in a dancer’s body. I know I have always wanted to be a dancer, so I definitely won’t mind looking like one! I decided to start at square one with the Beginners Workout. This DVD features the Bar Method’s Basic Body Sculpting exercises and help beginners and more advanced students to brush up on their form. All you need is a bar or piece of furniture to act as your bar and a couple weights. If you don’t have weights, you can easily find items around your house to use as weights. {water bottles, water jugs, canned goods, anything that will add a little resistance will do the trick!} I must say, this workout was a challenge, but as it is low impact and I was determined to make it through, completing each set, I made it through to the end successfully! The instructor was motivating and really explained each exercise and it’s purpose well throughout the DVD. I felt so good when I finished and was excited to to it again a couple days later! Of course, the next morning I woke up sore, which feels so good and lets me know I did something fabulous for my body! I also worked in the Body Sculpting DVD and the Body Sculpting II DVD; I was totally blown away with both sculpting workouts! These workouts had my body burning and shaking and with the encouragement of the instructor I hung in there and made it through both of them. I worked every muscle and with dedication, I know this DVD will have a major part in getting me amazing results and the body I am working for. You can really feel each exercise and I couldn’t get enough! I am loving these workouts and am beyond thrilled to have them in my home workout library! I am even going to get my mom started with the beginners workout. I have told her all about it and she is ready to give it a go! So perfect as it is low impact and offers many modifications for all levels! The Bar Method DVds offer a wonderful selection of workouts for beginners to advanced, even a DVD for pregnant women! You are sure to find your perfect match, and your body will thank you!

the bar method — integrates the fat burning format of interval training, the muscle shaping technique of isometrics, the elongating principles of dance conditioning, and the science of physical therapy to create a revolutionary new workout that quickly and safely reshapes your entire body. Here are just a few benefits you will achieve by using The Bar Method:

firm, elongated muscles

reduced body fat

high muscle definition in the chest

improved posture

long, narrow thighs

a lifted seat and defined hamstrings

strong, flat abdominals

increased stamina and energy

extended youthfulness

Make sure to follow the Bar Method on Twitter, and Like them on Facebook to keep up news and updates!

The Bar Method is Real Mom Approved!!

 

Amanda January 9, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS , , , , ,

Zero in on your fitness goals {Zero scale review}

 

Christmas is right around the corner. The holiday goodies have started piling up. At my parents house, we have what we fondly refer to as “the table of sin!” It is where all the yummies from neighbors and my parents clients get piled for everyone to enjoy. Add to that the fact that my family has an absolute killer fudge recipe that we make every year which gets added to the holiday goodness. Along with the goodies also come the wonderful festive meals and parties too! It’s enough to make a girl want to just throw up her hands and say “To heck with it all! I’ll live in stretchy pants until new years!”  :-) Unfortunately, I don’t have that luxury this year. We are planning a trip to Mexico in January, so I need to be able to get into my swimsuit and not feel like a whale at the beach. I have a game plan for how I’m going to navigate all the “food landmines” this year. One includes making sure I keep exercising regularly while I’m on vacation. Oh… We’ll be spending the 2 weeks before Mexico at my parents house, out of town, which adds to the challenge of exercising away from home. I’m either going to just cave and spend too much $$ on a pass to the local gym or I’m going to tote all my stuff with me and do it at the parents house. I’m quite determined! The other thing I’m going to be packing is my ZERO SCALE!! It is a revolutionary new way to track your fitness goals! I was generously sent one to try out and I am happy to say I love the concept! Who out there gets discouraged every time they step on the scale. All you see is that big number!! Even if you have lost a few ounces each day, which really is the best way to go about it anyway, it can still be hard to see little progress when you weigh yourself! Well, the ZERO scale takes care of that! It is a scale that takes your weight the first time you get on. From there on out, when you weigh yourself, you only see how much you have either lost….or gained! Brilliant right?? It allows you to focus on small steps rather than getting caught up, or hung up on the big picture!

The original and unique scale designed to help you achieve your fitness goals whether it’s to lose, gain, or maintain your weight. The advantage is that you NEVER have to see your weight again! Our scale shows small increments of gain or loss, plus the number of days since your last check and your very first check so it does all the tracking for you!

All you need to see is your “Results without the weight”! As you may have experienced, seeing your weight can derail the best of intentions to get in shape. In the past you might have worked hard on your diet or exercise programs but you still had a big number facing you. Our clients have discovered that when you ONLY see small manageable numbers of gain or loss, it’s easier to stay motivated and on-track!

With the easy-to-use ZERO Scale, you can forget what you weigh (who wants to know anyways?) and start focusing on looking and feeling great.

4 User settings, plus a Guest Mode (if you must peek at your actual weight) make this the perfect scale to replace your old or overly complicated scales.

 

I love the fact that I can focus on small numbers, which eventually add up to big results! I was also lucky enough to receive the ZERO pedometer, which is a fantastic, sturdy pedometer which helps you track your daily steps.

The perfect companion to help you track your progress! Our digital pedometer simply clips on to your belt, or slips into your pocket, to give you a readout of how many steps you’re actually taking during your day. It can also tell you how many calories you’ve burned based on your number of steps throughout the day.

I know that this is the time of year most people just give up on their diets, but won’t you feel better come January 1st of you have a head start on your fitness goals! Trip or no trip, I know I would. Every year I always vow to not overdo it over the holidays. The ZERO scale helps you see just how you are doing! It would make a great gift for the fitness enthusiast or anyone who is being conscientious of their weight…. yes…I’m advocating giving a scale as a gift! NO… it doesn’t mean you are sending someone “a message!” (Although maybe do a little asking before you just get them one!!) :-) I received a scale a number of years ago from my Hubby for… Valentines Day! And I loved it because he knew I was trying to get back in shape! So there ya go! Happy holidays and here’s to everyone surviving the holidays with a little less jelly in their belly!

The ZERO scale is available exclusively online!  For more information and cool stuff, follow them on  Facebook!

Take advantage of 15% off by entering “zero” at the time of checkout when purchasing The Zero Scale!

Audrey December 15, 2011 Holiday 2011, PRODUCT REVIEWS , , , , , ,

Kick It! {ROCKBOARD SCOOTER Review & Giveaway}

Many of my favorite childhood memories were made playing outside. I grew up in a quiet neighborhood where several friends lived on my street. We would meet after school to ride bikes and play games until dinner time and I spent almost every afternoon on my bicycle, scooter, or skates. Now I feel it is my job to make sure my children have an equally memorable and amazing childhood {x 100}. They love playing outside and I believe if they could live outside, they would! We have been spending most afternoons in our big backyard basking in the sunshine and cool autumn air. One thing they love to do is ride their bikes, tricycles, and other toys. I knew a ROCKBOARD SCOOTER would make an amazing addition to our collection of ride-on toys and as they get bigger will quickly become a favorite!

The biggest difference between our new ROCKBOARD™ SCOOTER and all the others is the fact that the ROCKBOARD is actually 2 scooters in 1! That’s right. Not only can you shred the pavement in “Rockboarding” mode, but with a few simple steps, you can transform the ROCKBOARD™ SCOOTER into a low-profile kick scooter machine!

I love finding unique and fun holiday gifts! ROCKBOARD SCOOTERS are most definitely unique and FUN! I have never seen a scooter like this before and it arrived fully assembled and ready to roll! We have had a blast taking our Original ROCKBOARD SCOOTER out for a few spins around the driveway! My favorite way to ride is Rockboard Style! Standing on the scooter you rock the base up and down and the “ROCKBOARD Propulsion Technology” propels the scooter; the faster you rock up and down, the faster the scooter goes! So awesome and such a smooth ride! You can also use the scooter as a kick scooter for cruising around. I love that this scooter offers both options! I found that riding the scooter both ways was easy to maneuver and steer! The Original ROCKBOARD SCOOTER is a bit heavy, weighing in at 20.8 lbs. It is made for older children {ages 8 & up}. ROCKBOARD didn’t forget about smaller children, they also offer a ROCKBOARD Mini, which only weighs 13.2 lbs. The ROCKBOARD easily folds up for storage or making it easier to carry from one place to another! Our kiddos are going to have to wait a while to grow into their ROCKBOARD SCOOTER, but until then, the husband and I will keep it warmed up and ready for them! ROCKBOARD SCOOTERS are offered in a variety of colors for both boys and girls! A ROCKBOARD SCOOTER would be an amazing holiday gift, perfect for getting kids outside and active while having an absolute blast!

Today, ROCKBOARD is giving away one Original ROCKBOARD SCOOTER!

Want to enter to win it? Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry:

1) Visit ROCKBOARD SCOOTER and take a look around their site! Come back and tell us your favorite color scooter!

—————————————————————————————————-

Once the mandatory entry is completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

3 entries: Subscribe to RMRV emails or RSS feed.

5 entries: Follow Real Moms Real Views by Google Friends Connect.

2 entries: Tell us your favorite outdoor activity!

1 entry: “Like” RMRV on Facebook!

1 entry: “Like” ROCKBOARD SCOOTERS on Facebook. {you can leave them a little love, if you wish!}

2 entries: Tell us your favorite feature of the ROCKBOARD SCOOTER!

2 entries: Follow RMRV on Twitter.

2 entries: Follow Rockboard Scooters on Twitter!

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

Win a ROCKBOARD SCOOTER from @RBscooter @agiveawaydaily Holiday Event!

2 entries: Comment on any non-giveaway post on RMRV!

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link.

ROCKBOARD SCOOTERS are Real Mom {& Dad} approved!

{You have until December 12th @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only. This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure here.}

 

Amanda November 28, 2011 Holiday 2011, PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , ,

Get in shape in the comfort of your home! Want a inexpensive way to lose weight vs a pricey gym membership? Visit Fitness Alliance today!

Whether you're interested in a Mommy Makeover or remodeling your home, Signature Forum is your one-stop resource for all your aesthetic needs. With top-rated providers and tons of articles on popular topics, like cosmetic procedures, Signature Forum is a great resource for moms!

« Older Entries
We love showcasing the best products and companies to our fabulous readers. We are PR friendly and welcome all pitches. Would you like to see your product featured here on Real Moms Real Views through a product review, feature, or giveaway? It's simple, contact us and we will chit chat.

RMRV BLOG BFF’S



Want to Switch your blogger blog to a Wordpress Self Hosted Website (your own dot com)? It's easy. See my switching from blogger to wordpress tutorial and do it yourself quickly and easily!

ARCHIVES


Follow Me on Pinterest
This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure here.