energymemphis.com – Energy Fitness

July 24, 2020

For the past at least 10 years every time I turn around I am reading something about the benefits of licorice. I have mentioned to our clients at Energy Fitness personal training, nutrition coaching and massage therapy studio that they may wish to consider trying some licorice tea as an introductory for stress relief. It can also aid in reducing belly fat from too much cortisol production from the stress. There are more than 300 different compounds in licorice, some of which have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.

Did you know Licorice is a legume that grows about 5 feet tall? That means it’s in the bean category. When people think of licorice, they usually imagine the black, chewy candy you can buy in the store. You may be thinking it’s just so strong a taste I can’t bear to eat everyday. It definitely has a very unique taste which stops your taste buds in its tracks. What if you could bypass the tongue and go for a supplement? After reading the benefits you may wanna give it a try. There is a licorice variety that is native to the U.S called Glycyrrhiza lepidota, though it’s much less intense in flavor. Glycyrrhiza uralensis is also known as Chinese licorice. It has a sweet flavor and multiple medicinal uses.

Licorice has a history of use in food and medicine for over a millennium. This tasty root comes packed with potent polyphenol micronutrients that have potent medicinal effects for curing anything from nausea to heartburn, and leaky gut. It’s called mulethi in some parts of Asia. The licorice plant is native to the lands of Asia and Southern Europe, and some call it a weed in some of those areas. Its most popular uses are candy, sweeteners, and flavoring in tobacco products. This widely-used herb has established health benefits, and folk medicine uses it to treat all types of inflammatory diseases.

Glycyrrhizin is the active polyphenol compound found in licorice, and it’s also responsible for the side-effects of consuming too much licorice, such as high blood pressure. As a result, many food producers and supplement companies now produce licorice extract for use in therapeutic and food applications – but with the glycyrrhizin removed. Consuming too much licorice can cause potassium loss which can raise blood pressure.

Benefits of Licorice

Improve digestive health which may be affected by Gerd (acid reflux), reduce toxic bacteria in the gut

2) Beneficial in a weight loss diet by ramping up the metabolism. Many people that struggle with weight and controlling appetite would benefit from Licorice because consumption affects the production of ghrelin, the hunger hormone – thereby reducing appetite. Now don’t go on a mad rush to order or buy licorice because alone it won’t have any significant fat-burning effect. Remember it’s all about finding tweaks in habits and what works for you and combining it with regular exercise and a healthy diet to provide a synergistic effect that helps you burn more body fat. Exercise, eat healthy 80% of the time and then stick of licorice for dessert or try one of the suggested protocols below.

3) Enhance Liver health. Drinking in moderation. Keep in mind everyone has a different idea of what moderation is – 1 glass a few times per week as a trainer is more than necessary if you are trying to have optimal health and always trying to lose weight. Drinking in moderation the liver produces enzymes to help repair the damage but those that drink more the liver can’t repair fast enough and hence fat is stored. Try a few licorice chews on the way to the bar as a preventive test drive to better liver health.

4) Improve Cognitive Health & relieve fatigue (think brain and quick thinking): licorice, namely carbenoxolone, has been shown in reducing stress and slowing brain aging that may lead to the development of dementia. Licorice also contains liquiritigenin, has an anti-inflammatory effect and can have a positive effect on brain cells, showing promise as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Other reports out there suggest that is could help prevent other brain and cognitive disorders like Parkinson’s and boost memory and aid in treatment of depression. Here’s another component present in licorice, amorphousness which has anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce blood sugar, inhibit the development of insulin resistance, and prevent Type-2 diabetes. Research shows that licorice helps slow the progression of neurological symptoms and provides relief from chronic fatigue.

5) Improve sleep: Who doesn’t want to sleep better? One specific type of licorice root, called Glycyrrhiza glabra, is known to induce sleep and enhance sleep duration. Two other common compounds in licorice root, namely Gabriel and liquiritigenin, also help induce sleep, reducing the time it takes you to fall asleep at night. These compounds increase the length of non-REM sleep without disturbing deep sleep patterns. Sleep deprivation transpires when a person gets less sleep than they need to feel awake and alert, due to the brain not being able to clear toxins from neural pathways during sleep.

Licorice has also been proven to help with eczema, heartburn, and cough. It may also be effective for cankers, dental plaque, bleeding, high cholesterol, high potassium, IBS, and hot flashes. If you have high blood pressure or are pregnant, you may want to talk to your doctor before using licorice medicinally.

WARNING: Even though I am touting the benefits of licorice remember that more isn’t always better. You should never consume excessive amounts of licorice in food or supplement form.

Here are some suggestions from a brand we love that is a science and medical foods based company:

https://efitness.metagenics.com/licorice-plus

https://efitness.metagenics.com/glutagenics

https://efitness.metagenics.com/tran-q

https://efitness.metagenics.com/fem-premenstrual

If you just enjoy the taste of licorice then go bold but remember that as with anything dosage and consistency is key. Try traditional medicinals licorice root tea or the Yogi teas and of course straight licorice chews if you dare, just watch for sugar content from the companies that are trying to make it more appealing by amping up sugar content.

Not sure what to do or where to start? We can help!

You can get an onsite or virtual assessment so we can access the quality of your bodies movement and discuss your goals. We have streamlined our custom take out fitness programs in a way our clients really like and come back for more. How? We assess them, ask what equipment is available if any, write program for them, send via email or text along with a short 5-10 minute video demonstration of the 2 programs. Interested in this? Call or text to see how we can help you 901-466-6242.

CLICK HERE IF YOU WANT A VIRTUAL FREE FITNESS CONSULT OR IF YOU ARE READY TO MEET ONSITE FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION or GIVE US A TEXT OR CALL AT 901-466-6242

Call, text or email us to get started today!
901-466-6242 or energymemphis@gmail.com

Tonya Tittle, M.S., ACSM
Owner/Dir. of Training, Energy Fitness (established 2002)
ACSM, TPI Level 1 Certified, Rock Tape, Rock Pods (cupping therapy), Rock Tape Blades & Blades Advanced
FMT Basic, Metagenics FLT

Massage services resumed June 1, 2020 and we have new guidelines that will be followed such as staff will be wearing face coverings as well as clients for massage. You will have to sign a Covid19 release form, wash your hands upon arrival, etc. All clients onsite must sign Covid form, successfully answer health Covid questions and socially distance.

Click here for information on our Healing Arts Services

by TonyaTittle

May 2, 2020

At Energy Fitness personal training studio not only do we do personal training and massage therapy we also do nutrition coaching, meal plans and supplement recommendations. In early March when I went to pick up a marketing banner at The Mail Center in Memphis, the owner Mark asked me what supplements I would recommend for this virus going around as one of his customers said Selenium. At the time didn’t have a quick answer for him as someones supplement recommendations has many factors to consider.

Since we are all so different in our nutritional lifestyles, activity level, genetics and stress levels the recommendation we make for supplements is customized after having a conversation with you on all these factors.

What does selenium do?

Selenium is an essential mineral, meaning it must be obtained through your diet. Your body relies on selenium, an important mineral, for many of its basic functions, from reproduction to fighting infection. It’s only needed in small amounts but plays a major role in important processes in your body, including your metabolism and thyroid function.

The amount of selenium in different foods depends on the amount of selenium in the soil where the food was grown. Rain, evaporation, pesticides, and pH levels can all affect selenium levels in soil. That makes selenium deficiency more common in certain parts of the world, though it’s relatively rare in the United States. As you already know the United States is the perfect environment to create obesity and heart disease with the SAD diet (Standard American Diet) that includes too many processed foods and sugar.

Selenium acts as an antioxidant, may reduce risk of certain cancers, may prevent heart disease and mental decline, boost your immune system, reduce asthma symptoms,

Regardless of where you live, certain factors can make it harder for your body to absorb selenium. For example, you may have difficulty absorbing selenium if you are receiving dialysis, living with HIV, have a gastrointestinal condition such as Crohn’s disease, Graves disease or hypothyroidism.

An international team of researchers, led by Professor Margaret Rayman at the University of Surrey, has identified a link between the COVID-19 cure rate and regional selenium status in China.Publishing their findings in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers using data (up to 18 February), investigated possible links between selenium levels in the body and cure or death rates of those with the COVID-19 virus in China. Here’s a link to that Science Daily article.

How much selenium do I need daily?

Age	Recommended daily amount of selenium
Over 14 years	55 mcg
9 to 13 years	40 mcg
4 to 8 years	30 mcg
7 months to 3 years	20 mcg
Birth to 6 months	15 mcg

Foods that contain selenium
How many of these do you or will you add to your diet?

Brazil Nuts – 1 oz/6-8 nuts = 544 mcg (great but not great if you are trying to reduce your fat and calorie intake)
Fish – yellowfin tuna – 3 oz = 92 mcg and sardines, oysters, clams, halibut, shrimp, salmon, and crab, which contain amounts between 40 and 65 mcg.
Ham – 3 oz = 42 mcg (be prepared to pay more for pork as prices will likely go up due to covid complications of processing and likely culling of almost 1.5 million pigs sadly)
Beef / Chicken / Turkey / 20-30 mcg per serving
Brown Rice – 1 cup = 19 mcg of selenium
1 Hard Boiled egg = 20 mcg
Sunflower seeds – 1/4 cup = 19 mcg
Mushrooms- 100 grams = 12 mcg
Oatmeal- 1 cup = 13 mcg
Frozen cooked spinach– 1 cup = 11 mcg
Milk & Yogurt – 1 cup = 8 mcg
Lentils – 1 cup = 6 mcg

Because many of us get into habits and eat the same foods because they are easy or because you just get stuck in a “I don’t know what else to eat!” rut we may not be getting enough variety in our diet causing vitamin or mineral imbalances. If you aren’t getting enough selenium in your diet or other nutrients that your body may need then consider either a source supplement or a generalized multi-vitamin or multi-mineral supplement. Supplement simply means giving your body what it needs from an outside source. Keep in mind that for fat soluble vitamins like vitamins A,D,E and K these should be taken with a little bit of fat to help increase their potential for good in your body.

You may wish to consider the following brands for your selenium or multi-vitamin/mineral needs:

M’Lis:This is the same company we use for our detox body wraps and some clients have used for detox program.

Metagenics: We have a practitioner as a sponsor to have these amazing science based products.

M’Lis Vital – Block out the ickies and bust up the yucks. Vitamin C, astaxanthin, ginkgo biloba and a handful of other synergizing herbs provide your skin and body with an outside defense from germs that may get you feeling (and looking) down.

When you’re on the M’Lis website check out their supplement called daily for a multi.

Metagenics – E-400 Selenium™ – provides the essential trace mineral selenium and natural-source vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect tissues from damage caused by free radicals. Metagenics has a great multi called Phytomulti with or without iron, while you are on the site, check it out.

Usually this is where we tell you what we offer and see if you want to come in for FREE consult, schedule a massage or Nutrition Coaching Services onsite. But, times are different and we’re on lock down with the COVID19 and doing all our training online video and kicking some butts in peoples own spaces. They have been surprised how much we can get their heart rates up, muscles burning and are so appreciative for our help in designing a custom workout program during quarantines.

We are working on a reopening plan to have you back onsite training soon or starting with us for the first time for personal training, nutrition coaching and massage therapy.

CLICK HERE IF YOU WANT A VIRTUAL FREE FITNESS CONSULT FOR OUR VIRTUAL PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION or GIVE US A TEXT OR CALL AT 901-466-6242

Here’s what Energy Fitness is offering online NOW…and maybe as a continued service in the future since it’s been such a helpful service and a hit for individuals seeking professional fitness advice.
+Virtual Consultation for those wanting either a written program, virtual training or nutrition coaching-FREE (value $87)
+Virtual Functional Movement Analysis / Assessment (ask for pricing)
+Nutrition coaching with nutrient and meal timing considerations and meal plans
+Supplement suggestions
+Equipment purchase suggestions
+Personal training program design by Exercise Scientist (Tonya) and additional certified personal trainers on staff (must include assessment-how else can we determine what your body needs if we don’t test your quality of movement) Program design for 2-3 workouts (ask for pricing). Links to video demos may be included in price. You may consider additionally purchasing 2 virtual sessions to have trainer demonstrate and watch your form). Example package: assessment, 2 workouts for you to do on your own and 2 virtual sessions.
+Virtual Personal Training 30-40 minutes 1-3 clients per session
+Small virtual packages of 4 to 6 sessions (1 assessment counts as session)

Call, text or email us to get started today!
901-466-6242 or energymemphis@gmail.com

The services below as well as onsite personal training and nutrition coaching to resume when the lock down on social distancing has lifted!

Click here for information on our Healing Arts Services (Massage, Body Wraps, Reiki, Chakra Alignment, Crystal Therapy
We also have all natural spray tanning, facials & KT/Rock Tape taping, Rock Pods (myofascial release).

by TonyaTittle

March 14, 2020

Who can relate to that relentless specific spot for back or hip pain. Sitting in a car for hours driving or riding and your back just feels tight or tense is not fun. Even just desk sitting for hours can create a back insult that may linger. Lots of walking or standing depending on your pelvic position can also create this same effect. Don’t get me started on high heels and back pain.

We’ve got several clients that we routinely have to show a variety of exercises that can help reduce or eliminate back pain. Aside from just holding a stretch for 3-5 minutes think about stretching as something you may consider incorporating into your life on a more regular basis. This post kind of seems like groundhog day as I believe last month I did a post on it attacking the subject at a different angle.

After 20 years of personal training I have deducted that this is for sure the component of fitness that is the hardest to instill consistency in our clients. Of course we have the hyper-flexible that love to stretch all their favorite ranges of motion. Then there is the tight muscle clients that associate stretching with pain but always feel better after they have stretched.

If you do break into a stretch more often like say morning right out of bed for movement type stretches holding each for 5-10 seconds flowing gently into the next stretch and occasionally throughout the day or just morning and evening you will find it hurts less.

Try this stretch that I recorded this week for our client complaining of his chronic tight back. He said “Will you take a pic of this so I can remember what we did”. Great idea…for compliance! I went one step further and took video so you can see the move in action and steal it. I wanted him to work some core at the same time. I had him perform 25 reps each side and be aware of his breathing as well..no breath holding.

This was not the right exercise for another client in the same session that had back pain flared up from tensing up from going up and coming down the Statue of Liberty. I had her do different static stretches and then put rock tape on her back.

Not sure what exercises to do or when to do them or even if you are having good form?

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, NUTRITION COACHING, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS, PERSONAL TRAINING.

INTERESTED IN

OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

Tonya Tittle, M.S., Owner/Dir. of Training, Energy Fitness (established 2002)
ACSM, TPI Level 1 Certified, Rock Tape, Rock Pods (cupping therapy), Rock Tape Blades & Blades Advanced
FMT Basic, Metagenics FLT

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

by TonyaTittle

February 21, 2020

Our packages at Energy Fitness include meal plans so the clients can have the best chance at nutritional freedom and education about meals that are healthy along with teaching meal timing. We have over 25 meal plans and choose a few for each client based on their habits, goals and food choices. We do realize that there are different levels of commitment for eating healthy and sometimes convenience becomes a factor. So many times in our society the quick foods become the whole meal plan instead of just a rare occasion. Ask yourself why you eat healthy or wish for the desire to want to eat healthy. Healthy skin, better sleep, less brain fog, shed pounds, have more energy and better overall feeling of well being should top your list. If those aren’t your motivation then maybe you can start with having those as mantras when you get off the plan or don’t even have a plan.

This post is just to give you a few options and get your brain working to find other alternatives to junk food or super high calorie fast food. I mean you really aren’t any busier than anyone else and we have lots of executive, successful clients and busy working moms that find the time for eat healthy.

When travelling with the family out of town when pressed for time we pop in a grocery stores and just grab something healthy like tuna pack, salad, and some chopped veggies or gluten free crackers. Sometimes there’s a salad bar or If they have sushi I might grab that if no added sugars. I am an ingredient detective and you should be too. You should be able to pronounce the foods and chemicals that you put in your mouth and body.

There are different levels of fast food. There’s the drive through option, Then there are options like food Bars or walk up service type of service menus as well as grocery store pop ins.

Arby’s: Roast Turkey Farmhouse Salad, Total Calories: 240, Total Fat: 13 grams

Chick-Fil-A: Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap,Total Calories: 350, Total Fat: 13 grams

Chipotle: Burrito Bowl,Total Calories: 330,Total Fat: 8 grams

Dunkin’ Donuts: Wake-Up Wrap,Total Calories: 190, Total Fat: 11 grams

Hardee’s: Low Carb Charbroiled BBQ Chicken Sandwich,Total Calories: 190, Total Fat: 4 grams

Moe’s Southwest Grill: Burrito Bowl, Total Calories: 357, Total Fat: 17 grams

Wendy’s: Apple Pecan Chicken Salad, Total Calories: 340, Total Fat: 17 grams

So that’s 7 fast food now I’ll share my fast food ideas:

bumble and bumble tuna and crackers or chicken and crackers (great for kids) pair with side salad or cherry tomatoes and spinach leaves or sweet baby peppers.

salad to go kits from grocery store (i forego the dressing and eat it bare unless there are lemon wedges handy).

pack my own to go lunch and snacks of salad, veggies and a protein like veggie patty, boiled egg(s), tuna salad

Snacks like aloha bars, vega bars, rice cake and nut butter individual packets (they come in almond, watermelon seed, cashews, sunflower and peanuts in which I never eat peanuts due to mold and cancer) are great to keep handy. I buy cliff, power crunch and zbar’s for the kids. Protein shakes are a great go to meal or snack when no other options.

HAPPY & HEALTHY EATING TO YOU!

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED
TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN

OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

by TonyaTittle

January 11, 2020

As a personal trainer and avid athlete across many sports I really enjoy the benefits of strong and tone arms. Many times at Energy Fitness personal training studio Downtown Memphis we get phone calls of clients stating they want to work on their arm strength and have toned arms. I have included in this post 3 bicep exercises. One exercise with a cable that is available in most gyms or fitness facilities, one with a resistance band and lastly one with a dumbbell.

This one is great as facing away from the stack you are less likely to cheat or round the shoulder forward. Try 2 sets of 8 heavy and do negative or try 2 sets of 10-12 reps at count of 4 (2 seconds up and 2-4 seconds on the down motion). Keep the shoulder blades back in their pockets and assume good posture and breathing throughout the whole exercise.

1 Arm Bicep curl – pictured with a resistance loop. Can also be performed with a band with two handles stepped on with both feet so you can do a double bicep curl. With bands typically you will want to do more reps. Try 2 sets of 20 reps resting 1 minute in between sets.

The first two bicep curls are in the supinated position (where your forearm is rotated in the palm up position). This works on the short head of the bicep which is the muscle that pops. You also need to work on the second head of the biceps (hence bi in the word bicep) so you can have muscular balance and all around definition. Be sure to not rotate the shoulder forward. One tip is to keep your elbow in the meaty part of the leg, specifically the vastus medialis and press your leg in towards your elbow as you curl the weight to the top position. Be sure to breathe and go at an even pace. If you are going heavier then use the other arm to slightly help get the weight in the up position and let go and use the muscle in the down position. Notice the position of my hand-this is called a DB hammer curl. Try 2 sets of 10-12 or go heavy and assist with the other arm for 2 sets of 8 reps.

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED
TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

Tonya Tittle, M.S., ACSM, TPI Level 1 Certified, Rock Tape, Rock Pods (cupping therapy), FMT Basic, Metagenics FLT
Owner/Dir. of Training, Energy Fitness (established 2002)

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

by TonyaTittle

December 7, 2019

We go in bouts at Energy Fitness teaching our personal training clients all the different ways to incorporate inversion into their life. We will often be showing one client different versions of how to go upside down and tell the benefits and another client will hear the benefits and see the exercises and want to get in on the action. Oddly enough with my 500+ pics I had to take more pics just for this post.

Just to be clear before you dismiss this upside down thing for yourself know that there are many different levels so you can start where you body speaks to you. Pictures peppered in this post to show you. Not pictured is plow pose, teeter gravity boots, yoga swing and other aerial yoga cloth props. Of course I’m sure I’m missing something like hanging off bed or couch but you have lots of ones to try. For the wall poses see if a friend or family member can grab a leg and assist you. See precautions below.

My own testimonial: I’ve been doing inversions for about a year now and have regained my 1/2 inch I lost in height most likely from 30 years of running. I’m a believer! I initially started with only 1-2 times per week for about 30 seconds and progressed to 5-6 days per week with totally 3 minutes each session with small rest breaks before going into different poses.

Inversion therapy is a great way to defy gravity and bring relief to common back and joint pains. Most people understand that inversion therapy can help your back but do not realize the benefits it can have for your joints too.

Every joint in your body feels the pressure of weight and gravity each day, and this causes natural wear and tear. While inversion therapy provides relief for this you also need to promote joint health.

Inversion therapy is a technique where you are suspended upside down to stretch the spine and relieve back pain. The theory is that by shifting the body’s gravity, pressure eases off the back while also providing traction for the spine.

For these reasons, inversion therapy may be beneficial for people with:

chronic lower back pain (great for runners after pounding and jostling from a few or many miles sitting, and too much bending of the spine)
poor circulation
sciatica
scoliosis

In theory, inversion exercises should help the spine by:

creating more protective fluid around spinal discs
removing waste from the spine
decreasing inflammation
increasing blood circulation through surrounding muscles
assist the lymphatic system drain toxins from the body

Other factors that may cause complications include:

retinal detachment
pregnancy
obesity
use of blood clotting medications

It takes time to adjust to inversion therapy. It’s best to start off in shorter increments (slowly building from one-minute sets to three) to get used to the process. This can help reduce side effects such as dizziness or muscle strain. Be careful not to overdo it.

Too nervous or scared to hand upside down without help? Try an inversion table.

Adventurous? Find a park or get some anti-gravity boots

https://teeter.com/product-category/decompress/

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED
TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

Tonya Tittle, M.S., ACSM, TPI Level 1 Certified, Rock Tape, Rock Pods (cupping therapy), FMT Basic, Metagenics FLT
Owner/Dir. of Training, Energy Fitness (established 2002)

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

by TonyaTittle

November 8, 2019

Cinnamon is a common spice and it has lots of healthy benefits. Often our clients at Energy Fitness personal training and nutrition coaching studio located downtown Memphis ask for tips and tricks for losing weight. Aside from healthy eating, portion sizes, meal timing and exercise and other nuances we love to push healthy spices and whole food.

This article explains the differences between Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon. These are two types of cinnamon and both of them are healthy, but one contains a toxin that is harmful if you eat too much of it. Cinnamon has different amounts of a compound called coumarin, which may be harmful to your liver in large doses. The tolerable daily intake of coumarin is 0.1 mg per kg of body weight. Consuming much more than that may cause liver toxicity and cancer. Based on the tolerable daily intake, it is not recommended to consume more than 0.5–2 grams of Cassia cinnamon each day. However, you can eat up to 5 grams (1 teaspoon) of Ceylon cinnamon per day. For your reference 1 level teaspoon is 5 grams. Cassia cinnamon for the same dosage has 225 times more coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon. In rodents, coumarin is known to cause kidney, liver and lung damage. It may even cause cancer. In humans, there are isolated incidents of similar effects. Exceeding the upper limit for coumarin is easily possible if you are consuming a lot of cassia cinnamon. In many cases, just 1-2 teaspoons could bring someone over the daily limit (possible if someone is adding this to a protein shake twice daily or fruit smoothies). I limit my dose to 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon daily with my shake(s) depending on my workout regimen.

Benefits of Cinnamon:

antioxidant-rich (antioxidants are like the rust scrubbers in your cells reducing the free radicals that cause damage and cause rapid aging or sickness)
benefits blood sugar control, which is important for people with diabetes
may reduce blood sugar spikes, increase insulin sensitivity and improve metabolic markers associated with insulin resistance
several of cinnamon’s bio-active compounds appear to block a protein called tau from accumulating in the brain. This is important, as tau buildup is a characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease
Ceylon has far less potential to cause harm when consumed regularly
Cinnamon can be used to reduce the glycemic index of a meal up to 29% according to Tim Ferriss and his book the 4 Hour body.

Cassia Cinnamon tends to be a dark brown-red color with thicker sticks and a rougher texture than Ceylon cinnamon and is considered lower quality. It is very cheap and is the type most commonly consumed around the world. Almost all cinnamon found in supermarkets is the cassia variety. It typically comes from Eastern & Southern Asia. Cassia has long been used in cooking and in traditional Chinese medicine. Roughly 95% of its oil is cinnamaldehyde, which gives cassia a very strong, spicy flavor.

Ceylon, or “true cinnamon,” is a product from Sri Lanka and southern parts of India. Ceylon is tan-brown in color and contains many tight sticks with soft layers. These features provide a highly desirable quality and texture. This type of cinnamon is less common and has long been prized as a cooking spice. It is quite expensive compared to the more common cassia variety. It has a delicate and mildly sweet flavor suitable for desserts.

Bottom line: If you regularly eat a lot of cinnamon or take a supplement that contains it, then it should be Ceylon and not cassia. At the end of the day, Ceylon cinnamon is better quality and much safer. Go through a lot? After the research for this blog post I am making the switch to Ceylon cinnamon and purchased a pound online.

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

Tonya Tittle, M.S., ACSM, TPI Level 1 Certified
Owner/Dir. of Training, Energy Fitness (established 2002)

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

Click here for information on our Healing Arts Services (Massage, Body Wraps, Reiki, Intuitive Healing, Astrological/Birth Charts).
We also have all natural spray tanning, facials & KT/Rock Tape taping.

by TonyaTittle

September 7, 2019

Our clients both female and male at Energy Fitness, personal training studio in Downtown Memphis have simple and complex goals for their body transformations.Many of course just say I want to be stronger and more tone (If I had a dollar for every time I heard the word tone in the last 26 years in the fitness industry I could own my own private island 🙂

I’ve been personally incorporating more functional movement testing with our clients since my Titlest Performance Level 1 certification as well as the most recent Rock Tape certification. We’re currently in process of overhauling our fitness assessment for all trainers and clients.

Simply asking you or our clients to move the body in different movement patterns and looking for tightness, weakness and limited range of motion is a key to customizing the core or other exercises we choose as part of a personal training program. Tightness or lack of range of motion in one or more areas of the body may lead to injuries and pain in other areas of the body which is known as referral pain.

This post is about engaging those glutes! Deadbutt..it’s a real thing or gluteal amnesia, is a condition that occurs when your gluteus medius gets inflamed and forgets to function normally.

Access or Measure what you wish to improve. Can you pass or fail the below assessments? Look at the pictures and try it.

1 Leg bridge test (Accesses the ability of you to engage or activate your glute muscle.)

Can you do the below exercises without your hamstring cramping? You should be able to hold for up to 20 seconds or longer.

Standing 1 Leg Balance eyes open and then closed Can you hold your leg at 90 degree flexion and hold for 20 seconds with and without your eyes closed?

correct position

How did you fare? Did you have airplane arms or have to put the other foot down or wiggle it around to not fall down?

If so, maybe you need work with those glutes or balance or just want to improve the overall look of your backside and keep darn gravity from making you have saggy or flat butt.

incorrect position

Try these exercises to teach your body how to use those butt muscles. Hold on it you need to and yes, actually touch your butt to bench or chair. Lean forward as necessary to get up. Use a dowel, golf club or broom handle for assistance if needed. Master your own body weight first before adding weight. For an added challenge try G3 below without weight and the back leg not touching the floor, in fact hold it off the floor and in front of your body the whole time. You may need to hold your arms out in front of you for balance.

How many times should I do the exercises? 1-2 times per week, 1-3 sets of 10-15 reps

h20 is a great exercise as you get a hip flexor stretch also. Especially great for runners or those with excessive curve or sway back as it help the pelvis get back into posterior tilt which can also help make the stomach smaller.

This exercise is a great one to separate the feeling of “Am I using my hamstring or my glute to execute each movement?” as you get instant feedback especially if you are only using your hamstring then cramping. Try 20 reps.

Below is one is a tough one. No problem? First you have to be flexible enough to even get the leg across your body then attempt to lift your butt off floor. Put your elbows on floor to help if you additionally which to work on posture. Make it harder by keeping the bottom leg off the floor while lifting butt and leg up and down. Try 15-20 reps.

Adding a band for resistance for the 1 Leg Heel Pushes is a great way to overload the muscle and get more results. Try 20-50 big range or small pulses reps.

Happy glute work. Keep that butt high and engaged so all your movement patterns are in sync.

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY OR ROCK TAPE & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

Tonya Tittle, M.S., ACSM, TPI Level 1 Certified
Owner/Dir. of Training, Energy Fitness (established 2002)

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

by TonyaTittle

May 19, 2019

Energy Fitness Downtown Memphis loves it when clients follow our advice and implement lifestyle changes. This client contacted us for Nutrition Coaching and then later for Personal Training advice. Rob Clark may have what most would consider a stressful job, Chief Government Affairs Officer of St. Jude and he doesn’t make excuses for finding times during the week to get in exercise. We coach individuals to empower themselves to commit to eating healthier and moving more efficient in their exercise programs.

In his video testimonial below Rob discusses since childhood how he has had a condition called Ankylosing spondylitis (pronounced ank-kih-low-sing spon-dill-eye-tiss), or AS, is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, although other joints can become involved. It causes inflammation of the spinal joints (vertebrae) that can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. He has always known that keeping active helps the symptoms.

Be sure to scroll down for before/after pics and videos

Rob decided he wanted to tap the breaks on poor nutrition choices and make healthier and more considerable lasting lifestyle changes. He is already very active on his own doing strength training circuit classes at the Y twice a week and running a few other times a week but he just wasn’t getting results he wanted. He contacted Energy Fitness to be prescribed the most effective exercises, stretches and meal plan(s) for his body. We initially did Nutrition Coaching and didn’t take pictures but after 6 months of Nutrition Coaching he wanted to again take it to the next level. He purchased a few private personal training sessions which is why we have the pictures dated October. We also did the Titlest Performance Institute Level 1 Functional Screen as he wanted his golf game better. This screen revealed most helpful limited range of motions in his body which was helpful in creating the best program for his goals.

We are sharing in this post his assessment numbers hopefully to inspire you to make a change and inspire you to create better habits. We now take pics even for clients that just get Nutrition Coaching with us. Pictures help us track alignment and posture as well as body weight changes.

Specifics to his exercise programming:

We focused on exercises that were going to tilt his pelvis under to provide a posterior tilt and better his range of motion and hip hinging. We gave him plies (sumo squats), Stationary Lunging back, 1 leg dead lift and specific ab/core exercises that are the same ones we prescribe to clients that have diastasis recti (a separating of the abdominal wall ) which isn’t only applicable to women post baby. Many men have this and are doing the wrong exercises to flatten and strengthen the abs.

Rob Clark’s results

April 12, 2018 to May 2, 2019 (age 57, height 5’11)

Went from 207 to 180.5 LOST 26.5 LBS (4.5 pounds from original goal)
Lost 4.75 inches (notice this number is not as high as others which is acceptable as he gained muscle and lost body fat) Abdoment was 38.25 now 36.5
Body Fat -went from 28.2% to 18.7% LOST 9.5% (abdomen fat in millimeters went from 43 to 28 and illium/love handles went from 23 to 12, back went from 28 to 17. Where each of us holds fat reveals a cascade of hormonal, insulin, carb intolerance, etc about what’s happening in our body.
Flexibility (modified sit and reach test) – went from 1 to 2.5 THAT’S 150% IMPROVEMENT in hip hinge movement)

We are still tracking Rob as he calls us for follow up assessments and continued coaching. We’re so proud of your results Rob and look forward to your continued success. Thanks for allowing us to share your story.

Live in the Memphis area and need to be inspired to get into your best shape or eat healthier and don’t know where to start?

INTERESTED IN THE SERVICES AT ENERGY FITNESS?
552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

Click here for a FREE consult for our personal training or nutrition coaching services (value $87) or give us a call at 901-466-6242

Click here for information on our Healing Arts Services (Massage, Body Wraps, Reiki, Intuitive Healing, Astrological/Birth Charts & Sound Healing Therapy). We also have all natural spray tanning, facials & KT taping.

by TonyaTittle

August 6, 2015

Have you heard of carb cycling? What about calories cycling? As I talk to people that know I am a fitness and nutrition professional they often think healthy eating is just something they could never achieve. It could be that they and you are looking at calories differently than others. Think about how you view each new day in terms of “healthy eating”. If I had a dollar for every person that tells me they “eat healthy” then I would be retired right now but sadly I am not.

I recently visited a family member and took a cooler filled with fish and turkey as well as veggies. I also had food that did not need to be in the fridge such as tortilla rounds, protein shake powder, rice cakes, almond nut butter, blue diamond round rice crackers and some flax and grain gluten free crackers I picked up from Costco. Of course for my higher carb days I had packed with me gluten free graham crackers and other sugary treats like honey flavored chex cereal, marshmellows and some dairy free chocolate chips because I love sugar as do my kids.

So back to carb cycling and how it can help you lose weight and/or finally see those abs. I aim to break your line of thinking on this topic. Just think of how body builders easily manipulate their weight up and down. It’s really just meal timing, supplements and changing up the way you give your body energy. Hopefully the statements below can start getting in your brain and accounts for different personality types thinking.

Think of carbs (carbohydrates) as pasta, bread, cereal, pastries, candy, sugar, potatoes (root veggies) & fruits. A carbohydrate is the bodies preferred source of fuel and provides 4 calories per every 1 gram. If you have carbs available and keep re-feeding your body with them then that is what your body will burn…not fat. Those phone apps are great but if weight loss is your goal then try changing your line of thinking to things like this:

I need to look at my diet in weekly terms instead of I want this today. This way I can look forward to my cheat days.
I will go NO more than two days eating whatever carbs I want. (This is a good motto!)
I will notice how my body starts dumping water (frequent urination) when I cut back on carbs.
Is my body deficient in bread? If you are hooked on bread sub for tortilla, lettuce, cabbage or seaweed, rice crackers, or rice cakes.
Is this food I am about to eat supporting my nutrition goal for the day and for the week overall?
I will notice that I may need to actually add sodium/potassium to my food if my eyes are puffy and my urine is clear (loss of electrolytes which can make you have foggy brain, fatigue and irritability).
I will try amino acids in pill or powder form before workouts as I don’t know what to eat before working out! If you are doing more intense weight training you may want to try either a boiled egg or rice cake with nut butter.
I will learn to shop for foods with nutrient value in mind. I need protein, green leafy veggies, good fats (avocados, nuts, healthy oils), fiber.
If I hate to drink water then I will consume some easy veggies that don’t need to be cooked such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and sweet peppers.
I will at least look at nutrition labels to start learning what low carb really means. A low carb diet is 150 carbs per day. A very low carb diet is 75-100 carbs per day. A very very low (induction phase lasting 2-3 weeks) is 25-74 carbs per day.
I may be willing to try counting carbs every day using the method of adding 20 grams of carbs each day leading up to cheat day (usually consume 3 times the amount of carbs that you have been consuming).
I am just willing to watch my portions size. Example: Man at 200 lbs., 150grams of protein is equal to 600 calories, 60 grams of carbs is equal to 240 calories.
Tell myself “It´s a fairly simple diet actually! Eat when I’m hungry and until I’m are satisfied remembering that I don’t need as much food as I think I do.”
If I deplete my body of the several thousand calories of carbs stored in my body then my body will burn fat for fuel.
If I eat a lot one day or two days in a row then the next day I will be in the mindset of consuming minimal high quality calories and think of it as detox.
On my cheat days I can have these without going hog-wild crazy: Alcohol-Dry wine (regular red wine & dry white), whiskey, brandy, vodka, drinks without sugar and/or sweetener. Dark chocolate – Minimum of 70% cacao (everyday just a tiny piece if needed)

By cutting back on carbs and then having a re-feed, binge, re-fuel, cheat day you are telling your body that you are not in starvation mode and not to store fat. Now go out there and use this info to be your best self, cheesy but helpful we hope.

If you are not a client and interested in getting a FREE personal training or nutritional consult then give us a call at 901-466-6242 or request a free consult (value $87) by clicking here.

Energy Fitness, 552 South Main – Downtown Memphis Tennessee

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Call, text or email us to get started today! 901-466-6242 or energymemphis@gmail.com

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How much selenium do I need daily?

Foods that contain selenium How many of these do you or will you add to your diet?

CLICK HERE IF YOU WANT A VIRTUAL FREE FITNESS CONSULT FOR OUR VIRTUAL PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION or GIVE US A TEXT OR CALL AT 901-466-6242

Call, text or email us to get started today! 901-466-6242 or energymemphis@gmail.com

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, NUTRITION COACHING, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS, PERSONAL TRAINING.

INTERESTED IN

OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN

OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY OR ROCK TAPE & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

Be sure to scroll down for before/after pics and videos

INTERESTED IN THE SERVICES AT ENERGY FITNESS? 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

Click here for a FREE consult for our personal training or nutrition coaching services (value $87) or give us a call at 901-466-6242

Click here for information on our Healing Arts Services (Massage, Body Wraps, Reiki, Intuitive Healing, Astrological/Birth Charts & Sound Healing Therapy). We also have all natural spray tanning, facials & KT taping.

If you are not a client and interested in getting a FREE personal training or nutritional consult then give us a call at 901-466-6242 or request a free consult (value $87) by clicking here.

Call, text or email us to get started today!
901-466-6242 or energymemphis@gmail.com

Foods that contain selenium
How many of these do you or will you add to your diet?

Call, text or email us to get started today!
901-466-6242 or energymemphis@gmail.com

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED
TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED
TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

LIVE IN THE MEMPHIS AREA AND NEED TO BE INSPIRED TO GET INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE, EAT HEALTHIER, WORK AROUND INJURIES, NEED MASSAGE THERAPY, ROCK TAPE, CUPPING, OR DETOX BODY WRAPS & DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR NEED
TO GET OUT OF THE GYM RUT?

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

INTERESTED IN OUR
SERVICES AT 552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN

CLICK HERE FOR A FREE CONSULT FOR OUR PERSONAL TRAINING OR NUTRITION COACHING SERVICES (VALUE $87) OR
GIVE US A CALL AT 901-466-6242

INTERESTED IN THE SERVICES AT ENERGY FITNESS?
552 S. MAIN, MEMPHIS, TN