www.northsfitness.com.au

FITNEWS AUGUST 2011

The July - October Group Fitness Timetable has loads of new classes and instructors, so if you haven’t seen it already pick up a new copy at reception or check it out online at www.northsfitness.com.au/timetable.

IT’S BETTER IN GROUPS

MMAFITNESS

MMATechnique

MIX IT UP WITH MMAMMA stands for Mixed Martial Arts and refers to training that incorporates a variety of authentic training techniques from martial arts such as:

• Boxing • Kickboxing• Thai Boxing • Jiu Jitsu• And much more!norths FITNESS is passionate about these martial arts inspired programs and we are very excited to introduce two new Group fitness classes: MMA Fitness and MMA Technique.MMA Fitness

These kick-arse sessions will help you make amazing fitness gains whilst keeping it interesting and new. It is a class for anyone and everyone, so come and give it a go.Mondays 7.15pm – 8.15pm Tuesdays 7pm – 8pmMMA Technique

This session will focus more on your technique for MMA. Vince, our qualified personal trainer has been a student of boxing of Muay Thai for over 10 years. He also studies Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and is currently graded a purple belt in this art. Saturdays 12.30pm – 1.30pm Enquire at reception for more details.

MEMBER OF THE MONTH

MICHAEL KEEPS IT SIMPLEMichael Bauer has been a dedicated member of norths FITNESS for many years and his motivation is simple. He really enjoys exercise and knows how much better he feels when he looks after his health and fitness. Michael spoke to us about his dedication over the years “I just really enjoy it. I know I feel happier and healthier and more able to deal with day to day stresses. It’s a lot of fun and that’s important.”

Michael also takes a simple and realistic approach to his diet, “I love lots of different foods, but it’s important to enjoy things in moderation. At the same time I try not to get too obsessive or restrictive”. As hard as it can be in a busy lifestyle, Michael knows how important it is to fit exercise into his daily routine, “Exercise is as important as any of the other things I try to fit into my day. Over the last year or so I have tried to exercise more frequently and I definitely feel fitter and stronger as a result”.

The Group Fitness classes have been another source of motivation and enjoyment for Michael. He has loved trying out all the Group classes and has been inspired by the “enthusiasm and encouragement of the instructors and the camaraderie of the group”. Among his favourites are Group Step led by norths FITNESS instructor Coralie and Fit, Firm & Flexible led by Avril. “The Group Active class is a great all-round workout and I always feel pretty good after Power or Cycle though they can be quite tough. Lately I’ve been trying Yoga and Pilates and really enjoyed both. I did the Sunday Stretch class recently and give that a big tick as well.”

He also recalled a funny moment when he walked into a belly dancing class by mistake “I tried to sneak out the door but the instructor was so welcoming and encouraging, I felt compelled to stay. It was terrific so I can recommend it to all the guys!”

Michael offers some words of wisdom to help you achieve your fitness goals: “Just get started, it really doesn’t matter how. Try a few classes, you’re sure to find something you enjoy. If you tire of doing the one, don’t restrict yourself, give something else a go. Why not try working your way through the complete timetable! There’s a challenge!”

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RECIPE OF THE MONTHBROWN LENTIL AND VEGETABLE SOUPThis super healthy, low-fat soup is a perfect hearty meal for winter. It’s quick and easy to prepare and can be put in the freezer to save for another time. Cooking Time: 35 minutesIngredients (serves 4)1 tablespoon olive oil 2 carrots, peeled, diced 2 zucchinis, diced 2 sticks celery, diced 1 brown onion, finely chopped 400g can diced tomatoes 2 cups salt-reduced vegetable stock 400g can brown lentils, rinsed, drained 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped 1 lemon, sliced into quarters or a splash of brown vinegarMethod

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add carrots, zucchini, celery and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until vegetables begin to soften. Add tomatoes and stock to pan. Cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes or until vegetables are soft. Add lentils to soup. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through. Ladle soup into bowls. Sprinkle with parsley and squeeze lemon juice or a splash of brown vinegar if preferred. Season with freshly ground black pepper.

(Source: Super Food Ideas - July 2006, Page 32, Tracy Rutherford)

EXERCISE OF THE MONTHBACK EXTENSIONThis back extension exercise with a stability ball is used primarily to strengthen the muscles in the lower back, but also works the upper back, core and glutes.

Instructions:

Lie face down with the ball under your hips and lower torso. It helps to have your feet against the wall so that you don’t slip.

Place your hands behind your head and lean out over the ball.

Slowly lift your chest up off the ball and by squeezing the muscles in your lower back lift your torso upwards.

Hold for one second and then slowly lower your body back down over the ball.

Repeat for 10 - 12 repetitions.