It's not often that I talk about my husband on social media. To be honest, Bill hates social media and doesn't want anything to do with it. But even though he doesn't understand it, he knows I couldn't do my job without it. It's my virtual office, my e-gym, and a way to reach people and help them. Nevertheless, Bill still just rolls his eyes when I jump up and down like an Olympic gold medalist because Autumn Calabrese and Chalene Johnson just "liked" one of my posts!

But all kidding aside, I'm going to break the rules and talk about Bill this one time because he is the biggest reason I stay motivated. Everyone needs a Bill. Someone in their life to hold them accountable and offer encouragement so they keep going. For example, this weekend I really wasn't feelin' it. Being a health and fitness coach is not something that comes easy to me. I'm battling a chronic illness, I've struggled with my weight most of my life, I am not the fittest, thinnest, or most athletic coach out there, but I do it because I love helping people solve their problems. And this weekend I was really doubting myself, and worried that people might not trust me and want my help. In fact while out with friends the other night, someone asked me why I became a Beachbody coach. I couldn't find the words to explain what I have been so passionate about for the last two years. So I copped out and I turned to Bill and said "It was his idea! Bill thought I should be a coach." And it totally shocked me when he replied, "I knew she had to do it and she'd be really good at it. Yeah, she's all over social media, but she really know what she's doing." Just the push I needed.

But this blog is not about me. This is just an example. My point is, who is there for you to turn to when you're doubting yourself? Will they remind you why you started and offer encouragement so that you do not fail?

How do you find an accountability partner?

Post about it. Post your story on social media. Tell people why you're exercising or eating healthy, or why you want to improve your health. Step outside of your comfort zone, be honest and real, and share your story on social media. I challenge you to try it sometime and I promise you someone will pay attention and respond. And that one comment or like is sometimes just the little push you need to keep going.

Don't keep it in the closet. Be open about what it is you are trying to accomplish. Everyone needs health and fitness, including you. Make your friends and family aware of why it is so important that you keep going and succeed. Don't be afraid to ask them to help keep you accountable. Maybe someone will even want to join you.

Join an online accountability group. Online accountability groups are the most convenient way to get fit and stay fit. Everyone in the group is working on improving their health and fitness. You can workout at home whenever it's convenient, and focus on good nutrition. Your peers in the group will have struggles and successes just like you, but they are there to keep each other accountable by interacting in the private group setting.

Are you struggling with staying motivated? Want to try one of our online fitness and nutrition accountability groups? I'd love to know what health and fitness goal you are aiming for. If you want some more information about an accountability group, start by filling out this form.

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Brenda

Ladies, have you heard? Strong is the new sexy!

Did you watch NBC's new fitness challenge "Strong" that premiered last week?
This new fitness challenge takes average women, just like you and me, and pairs them up with a personal trainer as their team mate and mentor. Each of them is on a journey to reach their full potential. The great thing about this challenge is that their transformation is not necessarily about losing weight, but rather about reaching their goals and building confidence, realizing their potential, improving their health, finding happiness and getting strong.

These women set such a great example for the rest of us and I was so inspired by them that I decided to commit the next 3 months to getting strong - #summerstrong - and I'm challenging YOU to join me!
Our next challenge group starts on Monday, May 9 and I am looking fro 10 women to join me in a challenge to transform ourselves and become the best possible version of ourselves!

This challenge is not about losing pounds

~ We will not count calories
~ We will not let our age get in the way
~ We will not judge our success simply by a number on a scale!

Instead we will focus on
~ Overcoming obstacles
~ Building confidence
~ Finding balance in our busy lives
~ Improving our health
~ Finding true happiness

Together we will get strong!

In the show, each contestant is paired with a personal trainer, but in our group it's even better. You'll have access to a celebrity trainer to guide your workouts and a personal coach to motivate and support you and to answer any questions you might have along the way. It's called accountability and it's very important. The accountability that you'll find in the group is what keeps everyone going. You will not quit and you will not fail! That's the promise we make to one another.

Not sure if you have the time? You just need 1/2 hour a day - every day. I'm a busy working mom like many of you, and I know how hard it is to make your own health and fitness a priority. But believe me, it's possible and it's important. You can take much better care of you family if you start with yourself.

This challenge group is where the magic happens!
We're here to help simplify your busy life. You'll get simple 30 minute workouts, easy meal planning and tons of support. And the best part is that you can do it at home and at your own pace. All you have to do is follow the step-by-step process for 30 days and you will begin to see results.
Membership in this group includes:
• A complete home workout kit with DVDs
• Quick 30 minute workouts anyone can do at home
• 1 month of Shakeology, a super nutritious smoothie perfect for busy moms on-the-go!
• A 30 day customized meal plan with recipes the whole family will love!
• Accountability to help you stay committed and finish the program
• Your very own personal health & fitness coach 24/7, and daily workouts led by a celebrity trainer
• Access to my private, VIP lifetime support group
• A free T-shirt when you finish and send in your results
• A 30-day money back guarantee so you have nothing to lose!

Let's make the rest of our lives the best of our lives. Let's get strong... together! 

Joining this group is easy. Start by filling out the form below to tell me a little more about yourself:
Want to learn more about a challenge group?

Want to learn more about Shakeology?

Got some questions for me? email me: brendalajay@gmail.com

Ready to give a challenge group a try? Fill out this form to get started

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Brenda

What The Heck Was I Thinking?

That's right, what the heck was I thinking last year when I decided to become a Beachbody coach?
Well, I was thinking that my husband was crazy. No, not for marrying me, but for suggesting that I become a Beachbody coach! Although I was having some success with the programs, I certainly hadn't reached my goal, I'm not athletic, I'm not a personal trainer or even a fitness instructor. I'm just a stay-at-home mom who used Beachbody programs and Shakeology to bounce back after being diagnosed with rheumatoiid arthritis. But I guess he saw something in me that I did not even see in myself - potential and opportunity. I had the potential to inspire others from my own journey and I had the opportunity to make it a business and help supplement our income.

I decided to take his advice (for once, and only once!) and signed up. I created this blog, kept doing what I'm doing - working out to my favorite Beachbody fitness programs and the rest is history. Next month marks my one year anniversary as a coach and as I reflect back on what I've accomplished and the people I have helped, I can honestly say that becoming a Beachbody coach changed my life, maybe even saved my life, and it just keep getting better!

So now that I know I'm not crazy, here are the top 10 reasons why I love being a Beachbody coach:

1. Allows me time and flexibility to spend time with my family. I can schedule my work around family commitments and work as much or as little as I want.
2. I stay accountable. Helping people just like you and me reach their health and fitness goals not only helps them but it helps me stay accountable too. For me, staying healthy isn't just a wish, it's a necessity. Staying fit is the best defense I have against my disease and I make sure I maintain a relationship with my clients every day. It's a win-win for all of us!
3. I formed friendships with other coaches and challengers. This is one of those rare business opportunities where there really isn't much competition. I belong to a much larger team of coaches and we work together and support each other 100 percent! Not to brag, but this team I'm a part of, the Dream Team, is currently the #1 team in all of Beachbody! I'd love for you to join us!
4. No commute. I work from home, from my desk or my kitchen or the comfort of my couch. It's convenient and comfortable!
5. Able to be a Beachbody coach and pursue another career. When I decided to become a coach I did it with the understanding that I would not give up my other job. 2 years ago, I started my own online travel agency that I am very proud of. This was my life's dream and embarking on it was a long time in the making. One disadvantage of the travel business is that income is not steady. Beachbody pays weekly and it is a comfort knowing that I can count on some extra cash in my account each week.
6. I help people, I'm not a salesperson. My job is to inspire, help and motivate other people to reach their health and fitness goals just like I did. My clients (called challengers) do not pay me a dime for my services, Beachbody does that. My job is to provide the added service, daily accountability and 1:1 support to make sure everyone completes their program and does not fail! 
7. I reach people through social media. There's no cold calling or pressuring my family and friends. I connect with challengers through social media every day. Many of them I have never met, but we workout and cheer each other, exchange tips and advice, and keep each other accountable. It's pretty amazing, but these lasting friendships are formed by keeping in touch online. 
8. Support and training are online 24/7. Beachbody has a pretty amazing network of coaches and trainers available to provide continuous training and support. Online focus groups and New Coach University are just a couple of ways that Beachbody provides ongoing training.
9. I love the discount & the perks! Saving 25% on all the products I love was a good enough reason for me to become a coach! In fact 85% of Beachbody's 350,000 coaches in the US and Canada are what we call a "discount coach," people who sign up as a coach because they are happy with the products and want to take advantage of a savings. But for those of us who do decide to pursue coaching as a business there are lots of perks like monthly prizes, cash incentives and the chance to earn company sponsored trips that you and your family can enjoy!
10. I had nothing to lose. It costs $40 to become a coach. That's it! You don't have to buy any inventory and you get paid to get fit. I recouped that fee in my first month as a coach. One year later, my team is growing and so are my earnings. Even though I'm working as a coach just a coupe hours a day, my earnings are helping to pay for things like piano lessons, school clothes, Christmas gifts and this year's vacation. It's a challenge, it's exciting and the potential is limitless!

Are you curious about becoming a Beachbody Coach. If so, then The Dream Team is a good place to start. Our doors are always open to new coaches! You don't have to have any experience in fitness or nutrition. All training is provided for you at no additional coast. You don't even need to wait to complete your own health and fitness journey. Many of Beachbody's top coaches are people who started out a lot like me. They shared their own progress and were able to inspire and help others through their example. You've got what it takes - I know you do! There's an easy way to get answers to all your questions about coaching. Simply sign up to take my virtual tour. It's all online and it's self paced so you can sit down and go through it all at once or take your time. There are videos from me, from some other coaches all the way up to the #1 coach in all of Beachbody, Melanie Mitro.

Just CLICK HERE to join the online portal

Or fill out this application for more information:

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Brenda

Get in Shape Without Beating Yourself Up!

What is PiYo?

PiYo is a low-impact, high-intensity body-transformation program. It uses the most effective Pilates and yoga-inspired moves set to a fast pace to help you burn fat while you sculpt long, lean muscles.

You’ll carve every inch of your body without jumps, without weights, and without straining your joints. And rest assured, there’s no complex choreography to learn. Chalene Johnson takes you step-by-step through the moves where you’ll use your body weight to lose weight and get intensely defined! You get your strength, your cardio, and your flexibility training all in one program.

Why is PiYo effective?

PiYo delivers the muscle-sculpting, core-focused benefits of Pilates along with the flexibility and power of yoga. PiYo’s low-impact compound exercises engage multiple muscle groups at the same time—while keeping your body in constant motion. As you progress from one fluid movement to the next without rest, you’ll maintain an optimal heart rate to incinerate calories throughout the whole workout! The result? You get a low-impact, high-intensity, total-body workout, giving you a physique that’s long, lean, and powerfully defined.

Ready to Invest in Yourself, Challenge Yourself and Become the Best Version of You Ever?

So long summer… time to get out the jeans and sweaters and bring out the best in you!

I'M LOOKING FOR 20 LADIES who are ready for a total fitness makeover! You won't need ANY complicated equipment. NO heavy weights. NO long hours in a crowded gym. Get fit using only the weight of your own body.. and you don't even need to leave your house! You can do this, your grandma can do this - anyone can do this!

Just 30 minutes of simple fitness each day, follow a clean eating meal plan for 4 weeks and replace one meal each day with Shakeology to ensure proper nutrition. NO counting calories! NO counting points! NO starving yourself!

This group starts next week and you can be anywhere in the US or Canada to join. All workouts are done in the comfort of your own home on your own time. You'll have ME as your personal coach.. walking you through every step of the program!

If you can commit to changing your life.. and making this fall your healthiest yet..
Message me, friend request me, email me!!! This time last year I was 30 pounds heavier so I know how you feel. Joining a challenge group last August changed my life in SO MANY ways! Make a commitment today to get stronger.. healthier.. and feeling better than ever!

This program is NOT free but includes:

• A complete home workout kit with DVDs
• Custom clean eating meal plan designed for your challenge
• 30 healthy meals! ~ A 30 day supply of Shakeology!
• Measuring tape to track all those inches lost
• ME as your personal coach
• Access to my private, VIP lifetime support group
• A free T-shirt when you finish and send in your results!
• A 30-day money back guarantee

Are you ready to totally transform yourself?
Can't wait to see you in the group and to see you looking FABULOUS this fall!

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Brenda

#LaborDayFix Challenge: Big Results, Lots of Prizes!

Labor Day Fix Challenge: BIG Results, LOTS of Prizes!

Hey guys! Summer is winding down, but I think it’s time for us to wind up and dial in our fitness for the last 21 days leading right up to Labor Day! Here’s how it will work:

I want to help you get great results with 21 Day Fix or 21 Day Fix Extreme in August! So I'm teaming up with Autumn Calabrese to bring you a little extra motivation and fun!

Between Autumn, me, and this challenge group, you will have all the tools and support you need to get GREAT results. Plus, Autumn and I are going to be providing a little extra incentive to join my #LaborDayFix Challenge Group by offering some really COOL PRIZES.

If you're ready for a CHALLENGE and to join a great community, here's what you have to do:

1. Request to join my group Labor Day Fix (#LaborDayFix) on Facebook. Find that group by clicking here. It’s a closed group so send a request and I’ll approve you.
2. Starting on August 17th, we will be following an assigned workout. There will be two paths – one for 21 Day Fix and one for 21 Day Fix EXTREME. I’ll post each scheduled workout one day in advance and then we’ll crush that workout together the next day.

Share what you are doing and WIN some BIG PRIZES!

During the entire 21 days, if you share 1) a photo of where you’re working out AND/OR 2) a photo of what you’re eating that day, and use the hashtag #LaborDayFix – you will be eligible to win 1 of many prizes:

Autumn's Prizes

autographed copy of FIXATE
21 Day Fix Watch
a 1-year subscription to Beachbody on Demand ($155)

Brenda's Prizes

A copy of Fixate Cookbook
Women's workout tank
Shaker Bottle & Shakeology samples


Autumn and I will choose weekly winners. Winning photos will be chosen based on creativity (50%) and photo quality (50%). You can share as often as you want.
Speaking of Beachbody on Demand, one day per week I will throw a little variety into the mix, and we will do another workout from the Beachbody On Demand collection. If you’re already a #BOD member, awesome! If not, ask me about how you can sign up free for 30 days.

Finally, remember to take your before photos, progress photos, and after photos because at the end of the 21 days we will be voting on the most inspirational transformation. In order to be eligible for Autumn's grand prize you have to share your results and/or your journey during the 21 days and use the hashtag #LaborDayFix (you can also share in the group). She will then take her favorites, post them to her Facebook page and allow the community to decide the winner by voting via likes + comments. The photo with the most likes and comments will win.

Autumn's Grand Prize:

Autographed #FIXATE cookbook
21 Day Fix Watch
Yearly subscription to Beachbody on Demand.
Beachbody Performance Ultimate Stack (all 5 supplements)
Also, if you win the Grand Prize and your Coach is the one who got you into this Challenge Group, they win the grand prize, too!

Grab a friend, a relative, a co-worker, whoever, AND LET’S GET STARTED ON OUR #LaborDayFix !

Note: If you don’t have 21 Day Fix or 21 Day Fix EXTREME, ask me how you can get it and save 25% on all your Beachbody purchases

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Brenda

Grilled Pork Chops with Peach & Jalapeno Salsa

Pork chops taste delicious with all sorts of fruits. This flavorful peach and jalapeño salsa makes a superb summertime topping. It’s quick and easy to make, and is ready in minutes. All you have to do is grill the meat! Choose peaches that are just beginning to ripen so they retain their shape when chopped. If they’re too soft, your salsa might look more like puree, but it will still taste great! Try the salsa on chicken tacos, with grilled fish, or as a dip.

Ingredients

2 medium ripe peaches, peeled, chopped
¼ medium red onion, chopped
1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeds and veins removed, chopped
¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
½ tsp. hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco)
2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh cilantro
4 (4-oz.) center-cut pork chops, lean, boneless
¼ tsp. sea salt
¼ tsp. ground black pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder

Directions

1. Combine peaches, onion, jalapeño, red pepper flakes, lime juice, hot pepper sauce, and cilantro; mix well. Set aside.
2. Preheat grill or broiler on high.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or broil  chops for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness.
5. Top pork chops evenly with salsa; serve immediately.

Want more tasty clean eating recipes CLICK HERE
These recipes are great but are you ready for more?

Want to get SERIOUS, get FIT and FEEL GREAT....FOREVER?
Get results with an online accountability group. Fill out this application for more information

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Brenda

Take the Tour & Learn More

Click here to join my FREE 5 Day online virtual tour into Beachbody Coaching

Curious about Beachbody coaching? Worried you can do it because you haven't completed your own personal transformation? Think you don't have enough time? Maybe you think it's just for people
who are fitness experts and trainers. Join me for the virtual tour and I'll show you that just about anyone can become a Beachbody coach as long as you enjoy helping others and are willing to make your own health and wellness a priority. Oh, and if you are worried that you'll have to sell stuff to your friends and family… don't be. We do not SELL anything except a healthy lifestyle that is based upon the principles of eating whole natural foods and regular exercise. Of course, we promote Beachbody Fitness programs and supplements because they work! This is a chance for you to turn your own fitness journey into a business and then share your success with others.

One reason I chose Beachbody coaching is because I can easily fit it into my busy day. First, and foremost, I am a wife and mom of 3 and my tribe is my number one priority. I also have another
career working as a travel agent from my home. The biggest concern I had before I decided to become a coach was how in the world I was going to find the time to get another business up and running. But I was happy to learn that the company offers complete flexibility. You work from home and set your own hours so you can work as little or as much as you are comfortable with. Some people treat it like a hobby and are able to earn enough to cover the cost of their own fitness products, or their cell phone bill, or for holiday shopping. On the other end of the spectrum, there are coaches who are committed full-time and earn a living solely from coaching. The opportunities are limitless. If you focus on building your business, it can be very lucrative. This is not a get-rich-quick scheme, but if you are driven to succeed, coaching can be both personally and financially rewarding.... simply by helping others.

I'm not a sales person. I simply share my story. The last thing I want to do is offend my family and friends with annoying sales pitches. I do not sell anything except a healthy lifestyle that is based upon eating whole, natural foods and by exercising regularly. I hope that my story and my transformation will inspire others to make their health and wellness a priority. I believe in Beachbody fitness programs and Shakeology. I will never have to "diet" again because my lifestyle has changed. I am stronger, healthier and feel younger today because of Beachbody's complete wellness system that includes fitness, nutrition and support. Step away from those 3 elements, and it's just another diet.

Lord knows, I was not a fitness expert when I started on my journey. I was overweight, in pain and could barely walk. But through my own transformation, I've gotten to know the Beachbody system. Everything I learned about Beachbody, I learned through my own experience. As far as coaching goes, Beachbody has training and tools available to help you every step of the way. I have a wonderfully supportive coach, Melanie Mitro, and an awesome support system from other coaches in our team. Our team is made up of people of all ages and backgrounds. There are stay-at-home moms, people with 9-5 jobs, professionals, retirees, and college students, and so on. So if you are considering becoming a coach but you've got a few reservations, I encourage you to reach out to me. I'm looking to expand my team with individuals who want to work on themselves while helping others. People who want guidance, not a boss. Upbeat folks who are open to learning. And those who want to add on to their income from the comfort of their own home.
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Brenda