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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 , , , ,

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 , , , ,

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!!

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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 , , , , , ,

Work it this holiday season! {Dustin Maher Review & Giveaway!}

The holidays are full of fun…& temptation! All those yummy treats lurking about , quietly calling to you at oodles of holiday parties. Or does that only happen to me?! Yes, I have a weakness for sweets. There is one thing I love more than sweets though and that is looking and feeling good, especially during the holiday season! I have been trying to get myself back to pre-baby form for a while now and although it is slow going, it is going in the right direction and that is really what matters, right?! I was thrilled when I was introduced to Dustin Maher Fitness and sent his Fit Moms for Life Workout DVD; the first in the monthly program; and his new book just in time to keep me going down the right path and get things looking hot for the holidays!

I love helping everyone I come in contact with get in better shape. I especially enjoy helping moms to look even better than before having kids. The first question I get asked a lot is, why a 28 year old single guy loves working with moms. Well the answer to that question goes back many years to when my mom raised my 3 younger siblings and me, along with my dad. She was a stay-at-home mom and did so much for her 4 children. Looking back, I realized that she spent so much time taking care of her kids that she didn’t take time for herself. I also realized that she didn’t have a good support group of other mothers who were motivated to get in shape and lose the baby fat. I was very blessed to have a mom that was health conscious and cooked very healthy. I learned a lot from her as she taught me what it meant to eat well. I have also realized that when I can help a mom change the foods that she buys for her family and begins to exercise, her kids want to do what she is doing! So not only do I get to help the mother out, but I get to help out the kids and maybe the husband (once in awhile) out as well. ~ Dustin Maher

Dustin Maher Fitness generously sent me the Fit Mom’s for Life Workout DVD (#1 in a series of 12) and I was so excited to get started! The first thing I noticed and instantly loved about the DVD is that the hour long workout is broken up into 4 individual segments! Perfect for motherhood, as sometimes you just don’t have a full hour or you just never know when there may be an interruption and you have to stop and then come back to it later! Dustin has a great intro detailing his program, materials needed, and also shows you how to take your measurements and explains why this is important in tracking progress. {as well as taking before photos…eeekkk!} I also like that Dustin chose to include a testimonial from Fit Mom for Life participant, Jody {also the Fit Mom Featured during the workout}. It was inspiring hearing her story and she definitely got me excited about the whole program from nutrition to exercise!

The workout begins with a nice warm up to get your body ready for the workout! Dustin starts his workout with Strength Training & I LOVE Strength Training. Before having children it was my favorite class at the gym! I love that he has included a tough workout and encourages mom’s to use a challenging dumbbell weight. He really takes the time to show correct form as well as specific modifications in order to make sure you are doing each exercise safely and correctly. This Strength Training segment is a challenge and I can see why women have such success with this program; It is most definitely like having your own personal trainer right in your own home! After Strength Training, Dustin moves into a 10 minute cardio segment; a challenging and intense 10 minutes; but definitely created to get amazing results. You will be sweating and sucking air, but wow, when I make it through I feel so strong and tough! After Cardio Dustin will guide you through a bit of Core Training. I love the “Top Secret” exercise Dustin shares! I feel like my core definitely needs some work and taking time to fit this workout into my routine should help make some changes for the better! Dustin closes out Fit Moms for Life with a stretching segment, which is important and always feel so good after a hard workout. I would highly recommend this DVD program to moms as well as all women. I can only imagine how a new DVD from Dustin each month will keep your workouts fresh and when done consistently will get amazing results; all for about the cost of a gym membership. The fact that Dustin featured a Fit Mom demonstrating each exercise is so inspiring. So many workout videos feature athletes, whose job is to be fit and they make the workout seem so simple; as a result making me feel like a failure when I have a hard time making it through to the end. Throughout the Fit Moms for Life workout DVD you see Jody, who is in fabulous shape, get winded, you see her muscles start to fatigue and sweat on her brow. This is a real woman; leading a similar life to mine, she can do it and it makes me feel like I can, too! The first time I made it through this workout, I was exhausted. I had to take several breaks throughout and it was difficult to get through it…but I did. I got through it. Each time I finish working out with Dustin, I feel better, more confident and stronger.

Dustin Maher’s Fit Moms for Life: How to have Endless Energy to Outplay your Kids! Book is such an inspiring read! Complete with all the major components of Dustin’s workout program, from eating to exercise to mindset; you will be armed with everything you need to be successful! The information he gives throughout this book is priceless and really made me evaluate the choices I’ve been making when it comes to my health and the health of my little family. The Fit Moms for Life Transformation testimonies are a great addition which I found to be so motivational. Throughout the book, Dustin features testimonies from moms who have been working through his fitness program. They talk about everything from where they started, personal tips, and personal advice. I found myself relating to several of the moms featured for so many different reasons. It is always motivating to read about real women, with similar everyday obligations of work, children, the home, and family and see how they have changed their life in a positive way! I am so excited to put the knowledge I have gained from Dustin’s book to good use and start making healthy changes in my lifestyle! If you are ready to change your life and get fit, this book can definitely take you there! Dustin clearly lays out a plan and gets your head in the right place for change and success!

Today, Dustin Maher Fitness is giving away one Fit Moms for Life DVD (#1 of series of 12).

Want to enter to win it? Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry:

1) Visit Dustin Maher Fitness and take a look around! Come back and tell us a product you would love to have!

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

3 entries: Subscribe to RMRV emails or RSS feed.

2 entries: Share with us what makes you motivated {& keeps you motivated} to make healthy choices!

3 entries: Sign up for the Dustin Maher Fitness Newsletter!

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

1 entry: “Like” RMRV on Facebook!

2 entries: “Like” Fit Moms for Life Home Workout DVDs on Facebook!

2 entries: “Like” Dustin Maher on Facebook. {you can leave them a little love, if you wish!}

2 entries: “Like” I Love Being a Mom on Facebook!

2 entries: Follow RMRV on Twitter.

2 entries: Follow Dustin Maher Fitness on Twitter.

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

#WIN a a Fit Moms for Life DVD from @fitmomsforlife @agiveawaydaily Holiday Event!

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

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

The Dustin Maher Fit Moms for Life DVD & the Fit Moms for Life Book are BOTH Real Mom Approved!

{You have until December 19th @ 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 December 5, 2011 Holiday 2011, PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , ,

Hot Mama!! {Hotpants review} #hotinhotpants

 

WARNING!!! This review is not for the faint of heart those easily grossed out! This is review is going to be down and dirty and honest, so if you have issues reading about sweat, then you may want to skip this one!! :-) (But you’ll be sorry you did! ) :-)

Ok, that being said, I have to say this review is perhaps one of my favorites!! I cannot REAL Mom Recommend these enough!! Had to get that out at the beginning because I love them so much!  Holiday season is fast approaching us… and with that comes family gatherings, pictures, holiday parties, and seeing people we don’t often see… aka… wanting to look as good as possible! I have recently been on a great workout kick and have finally lost all the weight I gained with my baby. HOORAY!!!…. only took a year to do it! I haven’t been counting calories, but I have been trying to eat in moderation. I have been working out at the gym and at home between 3-6 days per week. I am finally getting back to all of my pre-pregnancy jeans and pants. The problem is, I have a whole other collection of jeans/pants that I wasn’t able to wear before I got preggers. A little story about me. Before I got PG, I was finishing school, during which I gained 20!!! pounds over the course of 2.5 years. So, all the cute things I had before school I could no longer wear. My goal has definitely been to get back to pre-baby weight/size, but also to really get back to pre-school size too! Right during all of this, I was generously given the opportunity to try a pair of revolutionary, brand new pants called HOTPANTS from Zaggora. (They are really shorts!) These shorts were designed by a company in England and hit the market this past July. They 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.  For real??? I was super skeptical, but of course agreed to try the Hot Pants. It took quite a little bit for them to arrive… They were coming from overseas after all!! When I got them, there was actually a clever little tag that said something about: “sorry for the wait, we think it was worth it and hope you will too!” The pants are made out of what looks similar to a wet suit material. I was instructed to wear them for two weeks during all my normal activities and also during exercise.  I couldn’t wait to get started! (This is me below in my hotpants!)

I have been doing resistance training along with the stair mill recently at the gym, which by itself always gets me really hot and sweaty. Well, the next day I wore these babies on the stairs. I wore them under my usual gym pants because my legs are super white and I don’t show fluorescent legs off! :-) Back to the stairs. When I was done, I was completely soaked, including two big spots on my upper thighs where the shorts end,  the lower part of my tank and also a rather embarrassing one on the bum! (see disclaimer above!) I kept my chin up and hoped no one noticed the latter one! When I got home, I immediately threw everything I was wearing in the washer on the hand wash cycle. These shorts are not to be washed regularly and are to be dried without heat as well, so I air dried them for 1.5 hours in the dryer on air fluff only. Once they were dried I put them back on and went about my business for the rest of the day.

 The rest of the two weeks went very similarly. I worked out 3 days the first week and 5  days the second week.  I put them on when I got up in the morning and took them off before bed. There was a 2 hour block where they were in the wash on workout days.  They fit just great under my jeans too, so I could wear them out and about as well. I measured myself before I started wearing them and then again at the end of two weeks, which was today! I have to say I was completely shocked!! I have lost 1 inch on my hips, 1 inch on my stomach and 3/4 inch on each thigh, and 1 pound. There may be a little error on where the tape was placed, but not only that, I can totally tell in my pants too! I had just bought some skinny jeans for the first time right before I started this, and when I bought them it took a few minutes to actually get into them… ya know what I’m talking about!! Well, now they slide right up! I’m thinking I could actually go down a size! And, on top of that, I just tried on a pair of pants I wore before I got married, (which is the smallest I’ve ever been) and they actually fit, although they are a little tight still. But this is incredible!!! I never would have thought this would be possible in two weeks!! I haven’t changed my eating at all either!  I promise what I’m telling you is my honest opinion. I wasn’t paid for this review, although I did get the Hot Pants in exchange for it. The company says that results vary from person to person, but I am insanely happy! I am taking a trip to Mexico in January and will definitely be wearing these through the holiday season and beyond! They are like my own secret weapon against the battle of the bulge!  If you are daring enough to try them, you won’t be sorry you did! Be prepared to sweat though! Not all day every day like I did on the stairs, but just running around each day I got pretty sweaty in the pants…. but to me it was well worth it!! Once again… Hot Pants come REAL Mom Recommended! Every woman who cares about her appearance should have a pair! Happy Sweating!! Thanks Zaggora!!

Hot Pants can be purchased online. For more infomation and to check out testimonials from other real women who’ve been wearing hotpants, follow them on facebook  and twitter!

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

Audrey November 22, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS , , ,

Work It! {Harbinger Fitness Review & Giveaway}

Like so many mamas out there in the world, I am trying so hard to get myself healthy and fit again! I was so excited when Harbinger Fitness very generously sent me a few of their amazing products to integrate into my workouts and keep me on the right track!

Harbinger Fitness, leader in fitness accessories since 1988. Manufacturing and supplying fitness pro shops, specialty fitness retailers, body builders, personal trainers, juice bars, sporting good stores, and the rehabilitation market with functional training tools.

balance I couldn’t wait to get a Balance Trainer and Women’s Pro Gloves from Harbinger Fitness!

I have always wanted to try a balance trainer as I have seen personal trainers using them in the gym quite a bit with their trainees! I learned from the Harbinger Fitness page that the Balance Trainer is “A safe and versatile Core Training tool, that helps develop core muscle groups while improving posture and balance.” My core is most definitely in need of some whipping into shape, so I just knew this would be a great addition to the little home gym I am slowly creating! This one little tool can be used in so many different ways; use standing, sitting, kneeling, laying down and in tandem with exercise equipment such as balls, resistance cables or two Balance Trainers at a time.” I really LOVE using it during my Lunges. I place one foot on the balance trainer and it makes my challenging lunge workout even progloves more intense! Wowza! One of my close friends uses her balance trainer at the park during her boot camp workouts! Yep, this little guy is a great size and easy to transport wherever you are going to be working out!

The Women’s Pro Gloves I received are so well made and cute, to-boot! They are most definitely a high quality glove with some nice pink detailing! This glove has so many wonderful features; “The palm design features abrasion resistant double leather construction surrounding a foam padding system to enhance comfort and increase durability. Adjustable wrist closure for customized fit.” Although these gloves are pretty thick, they are made from a stretchy ventilator mesh, allowing your hands and fingers to bend naturally while staying cool! I know these Women’s Pro Gloves are going to save my hands big time from calluses, and strain as I slowly get myself back into a good weight lifting routine!

Today, Harbinger Fitness is generously giving away a Balance Trainer and Women’s Pro Glove!

Want to win? Here’s how to enter!

Mandatory 1st Entry:

1)Visit Harbinger Fitness and take a look around! Come back and tell us your favorite item!

—————————————————————————————————-

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.

1 entry: “Like” RMRV on Facebook!

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

2 entries: Follow Harbinger Fitness on Twitter.

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

#WIN a Balance Trainer and Women’s Pro Glove from @HarbingerFit at @agiveawaydaily

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

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

Harbinger Fitness has an amazing variety of Fitness Gear & is Real Mom Approved!!

{You have until November 2nd @ 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 October 19, 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!

For artificial insemination contact a California Cryobank Representative.

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