Lauren Brooks's Blog, page 13
August 15, 2018
CONFESSION #5 - Being a business owner isn't very glamorous
CONFESSION: Being a “strength coach/personal trainer/fitness teacher” whatever you’d call someone like me... and business owner, isn’t as glamorous as it sounds.
Here is my indoor office. In addition to teaching outside, I’m now an avid user of Final Cut Pro, which gives me the control
Published on August 15, 2018 09:07
August 13, 2018
Nutritional Therapy - Digestive Health
How is your digestive health? Do you struggle with food? Digestion? You'd be surprised which foods can be causing you horrible symptoms such as brain fog, bloating, joint pain, flu like symptoms, acne, lethargy. Paige Reagan is sharing some of the most cutting edge information about digestion. In fact she's been through it all! Read about Paige below!
I am proud to introduce you to one of the newest information packed sections of Lauren's Playground. Members Log in to this section here. Not a member? Offering Monthly, Yearly or Lifetime option.
Nutritional Therapy with Paige Reagan
A holistically focused community outreach initiative that will empower you to optimize your own health through a properly prepared, nutrient dense, whole-foods diet.
In this section you will find new cutting edge articles as well as recipes that will be derived from whole foods.
MEET PAIGE REAGAN
Hello!
I’m Paige Reagan, and like you, I am a member of Lauren’s kettlebell community. Late one night in 2012 while desperately surfing the internet trying to find a better way to exercise, I discovered kettlebells and Lauren’s DVD, “The Ultimate Body Sculpt and Conditioning With Kettlebells”, Volume 1. Three days later I attempted my first workout with the DVD and my new kettlebell. My endurance and form were seriously lacking and I could only complete about 90 seconds of the 12-minute Fat Blast but I was hooked! Within 6 weeks I started to see positive changes in my body composition, which fueled my desire to learn more. I scheduled private consultations with Lauren to improve my digestion and she designed nutrition and training programs to specifically help me reach my goals. I continued to get significantly stronger until an unfortunate skateboarding accident in 2013 that resulted in a serious elbow break and tricep tear. Although I did not need surgery, my doctors told me that I would never straighten my arm or be able to swing a kettlebell again. From 3,000 miles away, Lauren was able to help me rehabilitate my arm and regain full strength and mobility. I defied the medical odds and was extremely grateful for Lauren’s knowledge.
The Long Road
I wish I could say that I regained my strength and never looked back but unfortunately my elbow was only the beginning of a long string of injuries and other health issues that have made it difficult for me to train consistently. Although my digestive issues had been relatively stable for some time, they started to become increasingly worse making it nearly impossible to eat. I was suffering from debilitating migraines once or twice a week and had cystic acne that was so bad that I would cancel plans with friends and family. Despite exercising, I had increasing joint pain and was experiencing flu-like symptoms in the evenings. The tests that the medical doctors ran were expensive, unpleasant, and came back with results indicating that I was healthy and fine. In fact, the last doctor that I saw for my digestives issues told me that I had a stressful job and he gave me a prescription for Xanax because he thought that I was depressed and anxious! I knew then that I was only going to get better if I took responsibility for my own health. So, I started by joining the first Winner’s Circle that Lauren offered in 2016 as a way to commit to moving every day, even when injured and feeling unwell. I was also fortunate enough to find a local wellness center that had a naturopathic nutritionist on site. After weeks of tests and assessments, I learned that I had almost 20 food allergies/hypersensitivities, including allergies to wheat and gluten, severe leaky gut syndrome, a pathogenic intestinal bacteria, and 2 genetic disorders that were causing issues with my blood sugar and cholesterol. I was overwhelmed with the diagnoses but felt validated and empowered to make positive changes.
The nutritionist overhauled my diet and recommended supplements to heal my gut. Within a week, my digestive symptoms improved and the weekly migraines and the daily joint pain and flu-like symptoms disappeared. Within 2 months, the acne completely resolved and even the scarring cleared. I regained enough strength to train regularly again and even attended the workshops that Lauren held in Charlotte and Philadelphia. Not only did I have the opportunity to meet and connect with so many of the people who have been in this incredible community with me since I first started, but I also obtained my certification in April, which is something that I thought would never be possible given my health situation. The road to recovery has not been easy, and at times it seems that there have been more setbacks thanprogress. But overall, it has taught me a lot about myself and has made me a stronger person as a result.
So Why Are You Here in Lauren’s Playground?
Over the course of my journey to better health I have met so many people who struggle daily with medical issues of their own. Not only are they frustrated by the care they are receiving but they are also concerned with all of the prescribed medications and their side effects. I have worked in the pharmaceutical industry in clinical drug development since graduating college so I have been involved for almost 20 years in evaluating drug safety and analyzing adverse side effects. Although I believe that there will always be a time and place for pharmaceutical medicines, I know from my own experience that there are other promising ways to regain your health that don’t involve prescriptions and your local pharmacy. I want to share what I have learned but more importantly I want to be a credible resource. So in April, I took another leap of faith and enrolled in a certification program through the Nutritional Therapy Association (NTA) to become a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP).
A NTP is a nutritional therapist certified by the NTA to evaluate nutritional needs and make recommendations for dietary changes, helping clients to balance body chemistry and achieve optimal wellness. The certification is an intense, 9-month program that consists of online science-based coursework, extensive reading, quizzes, essays, book reviews, and other miscellaneous assignments such as recipe development. There are 3 mandatory, extended weekend workshops where students learn the functional evaluation and lingual-neural testing, which are the clinical evaluation tools that a NTP uses to identify and assess nutritional deficiencies. In addition, students are required to have several practice clients for the duration of the course and must also complete a community outreach project.
And this is why I am here! Lauren is graciously allowing me to use her space in the Playground to create a course that is dedicated to providing information related to nutritional therapy. This will not only help me to complete a key requirement of my certification but more importantly, it will give me a place to provide nutritional information to a community of people with whom I share a common interest. I plan to provide articles related to the nutritional therapy foundations, with topics on digestion and ways to improve it without the use of medications and supplements; fats, including misconceptions about fats and good versus bad fats; blood sugar imbalances; food cravings; and more. I am also hoping to post some simple, nutrient-dense recipes that you can try at home.
I am beyond excited to share everything that I have learned so far and hope that it will inspire you to make positive changes that will improve your health so that you can be the best version of yourself. Thank you Lauren for your support and making this possible!!

Members Log in to this section here. Not a member? Offering Monthly, Yearly or Lifetime option.
NEW RECIPE added to Nutritional Therapy plus Digestion articles!
CHICKEN AVOCADO BURGERS - gluten free, dairy free, nut free, paleo and keto friendly
PLUS
SPICY AVOCADO MAYO - vegan, gluten free, dairy free, nut free, paleo and keto friendly
just added in the Nutritional Therapy Section of Lauren's Playground
Members Log in to this section here. Not a member? Offering Monthly, Yearly or Lifetime option.
I am proud to introduce you to one of the newest information packed sections of Lauren's Playground. Members Log in to this section here. Not a member? Offering Monthly, Yearly or Lifetime option.
Nutritional Therapy with Paige Reagan
A holistically focused community outreach initiative that will empower you to optimize your own health through a properly prepared, nutrient dense, whole-foods diet.
In this section you will find new cutting edge articles as well as recipes that will be derived from whole foods.
MEET PAIGE REAGAN
Hello!
I’m Paige Reagan, and like you, I am a member of Lauren’s kettlebell community. Late one night in 2012 while desperately surfing the internet trying to find a better way to exercise, I discovered kettlebells and Lauren’s DVD, “The Ultimate Body Sculpt and Conditioning With Kettlebells”, Volume 1. Three days later I attempted my first workout with the DVD and my new kettlebell. My endurance and form were seriously lacking and I could only complete about 90 seconds of the 12-minute Fat Blast but I was hooked! Within 6 weeks I started to see positive changes in my body composition, which fueled my desire to learn more. I scheduled private consultations with Lauren to improve my digestion and she designed nutrition and training programs to specifically help me reach my goals. I continued to get significantly stronger until an unfortunate skateboarding accident in 2013 that resulted in a serious elbow break and tricep tear. Although I did not need surgery, my doctors told me that I would never straighten my arm or be able to swing a kettlebell again. From 3,000 miles away, Lauren was able to help me rehabilitate my arm and regain full strength and mobility. I defied the medical odds and was extremely grateful for Lauren’s knowledge.
The Long Road
I wish I could say that I regained my strength and never looked back but unfortunately my elbow was only the beginning of a long string of injuries and other health issues that have made it difficult for me to train consistently. Although my digestive issues had been relatively stable for some time, they started to become increasingly worse making it nearly impossible to eat. I was suffering from debilitating migraines once or twice a week and had cystic acne that was so bad that I would cancel plans with friends and family. Despite exercising, I had increasing joint pain and was experiencing flu-like symptoms in the evenings. The tests that the medical doctors ran were expensive, unpleasant, and came back with results indicating that I was healthy and fine. In fact, the last doctor that I saw for my digestives issues told me that I had a stressful job and he gave me a prescription for Xanax because he thought that I was depressed and anxious! I knew then that I was only going to get better if I took responsibility for my own health. So, I started by joining the first Winner’s Circle that Lauren offered in 2016 as a way to commit to moving every day, even when injured and feeling unwell. I was also fortunate enough to find a local wellness center that had a naturopathic nutritionist on site. After weeks of tests and assessments, I learned that I had almost 20 food allergies/hypersensitivities, including allergies to wheat and gluten, severe leaky gut syndrome, a pathogenic intestinal bacteria, and 2 genetic disorders that were causing issues with my blood sugar and cholesterol. I was overwhelmed with the diagnoses but felt validated and empowered to make positive changes.
The nutritionist overhauled my diet and recommended supplements to heal my gut. Within a week, my digestive symptoms improved and the weekly migraines and the daily joint pain and flu-like symptoms disappeared. Within 2 months, the acne completely resolved and even the scarring cleared. I regained enough strength to train regularly again and even attended the workshops that Lauren held in Charlotte and Philadelphia. Not only did I have the opportunity to meet and connect with so many of the people who have been in this incredible community with me since I first started, but I also obtained my certification in April, which is something that I thought would never be possible given my health situation. The road to recovery has not been easy, and at times it seems that there have been more setbacks thanprogress. But overall, it has taught me a lot about myself and has made me a stronger person as a result.
So Why Are You Here in Lauren’s Playground?
Over the course of my journey to better health I have met so many people who struggle daily with medical issues of their own. Not only are they frustrated by the care they are receiving but they are also concerned with all of the prescribed medications and their side effects. I have worked in the pharmaceutical industry in clinical drug development since graduating college so I have been involved for almost 20 years in evaluating drug safety and analyzing adverse side effects. Although I believe that there will always be a time and place for pharmaceutical medicines, I know from my own experience that there are other promising ways to regain your health that don’t involve prescriptions and your local pharmacy. I want to share what I have learned but more importantly I want to be a credible resource. So in April, I took another leap of faith and enrolled in a certification program through the Nutritional Therapy Association (NTA) to become a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP).
A NTP is a nutritional therapist certified by the NTA to evaluate nutritional needs and make recommendations for dietary changes, helping clients to balance body chemistry and achieve optimal wellness. The certification is an intense, 9-month program that consists of online science-based coursework, extensive reading, quizzes, essays, book reviews, and other miscellaneous assignments such as recipe development. There are 3 mandatory, extended weekend workshops where students learn the functional evaluation and lingual-neural testing, which are the clinical evaluation tools that a NTP uses to identify and assess nutritional deficiencies. In addition, students are required to have several practice clients for the duration of the course and must also complete a community outreach project.
And this is why I am here! Lauren is graciously allowing me to use her space in the Playground to create a course that is dedicated to providing information related to nutritional therapy. This will not only help me to complete a key requirement of my certification but more importantly, it will give me a place to provide nutritional information to a community of people with whom I share a common interest. I plan to provide articles related to the nutritional therapy foundations, with topics on digestion and ways to improve it without the use of medications and supplements; fats, including misconceptions about fats and good versus bad fats; blood sugar imbalances; food cravings; and more. I am also hoping to post some simple, nutrient-dense recipes that you can try at home.
I am beyond excited to share everything that I have learned so far and hope that it will inspire you to make positive changes that will improve your health so that you can be the best version of yourself. Thank you Lauren for your support and making this possible!!

Members Log in to this section here. Not a member? Offering Monthly, Yearly or Lifetime option.
NEW RECIPE added to Nutritional Therapy plus Digestion articles!
CHICKEN AVOCADO BURGERS - gluten free, dairy free, nut free, paleo and keto friendly
PLUS
SPICY AVOCADO MAYO - vegan, gluten free, dairy free, nut free, paleo and keto friendly
just added in the Nutritional Therapy Section of Lauren's Playground
Members Log in to this section here. Not a member? Offering Monthly, Yearly or Lifetime option.
Published on August 13, 2018 12:53
August 4, 2018
The Ultimate Get Up Guide - Your Guide To a Super Strong Body
Welcome to the most comprehensive Get Up Guide you’ll ever get your hands on. This is your bible to mastering the Get Up. I’ve broken this exercise down into mini, bite-sized pieces so that you can digest them, enabling you to create a beautiful, flowing Get Up. If you’re reading this right now, I’m guessing you already know the wonderful benefits of mastering this exercise. In case you don’t know, here are a few testimonials below people have shared about adding Get Ups to their regimen:
The Ultimate Get Up Guide
Designed for the complete beginner and strong enough for the most advanced studentView from any device
40 Workout Video Tutorials6 Weeks of Get Up Practice sessions with detailed video tutorials.6 Weeks of Cross Training Exercises - Video Tutorials.Downloadable written program for each week.
“I find the Turkish Get Up to be meditative as well as physically challenging. It forces me to slow down my breath, raise the consciousness of my body, and believe in myself. It also helps me notice what parts of my body need more attention for strength-building. I actually like the descent of the TGU best, as I really turn inward while slowwwwly laying back down flat. That last motion, from elbow to shoulder, is something I'm currently working on improving.” H. Lapidus
“I have found the TGU to be an amazing exercise for getting my mind and body working together. There are so many working parts going on that the synergism of each muscle and the brain is paramount. Love it!” P. Wood
“Years ago when a lifter, sought out to be taught by the “old time “ masters of strength, the master would first have the student train with TGU’s. Even back then they knew the benefits acquired by performing a technically sound TGU. It applies stress to the body in all the planes (sagittal, frontal, transverse)
It works not only qualities of strength, but also stability, mobility, joint integrity, and kinetic awareness. There is also an offset load component by holding the load in one hand, which really fires up the nervous system. Real important in Real Life. And think about it, if we can get off the floor with a good size kettlebell in one hand, how much easier it will be to get off the floor when we get older. Especially when you’ve coached some seventy- and eighty-year-olds to get off the floor themselves. That’s freedom. ☮ ” @coachbc
“Get Ups help my grip, my upper back, glutes and obliques. I make sure to do them at least four times a week. I remember, Lauren, that you spoke several years ago about how when you first started with kettlebells you could not do a TGU even though you were physically fit. At age 51, I want to be able to get up from the floor easily, and I can, in large part, because of TGUs. They help me to keep my torso stable when sitting and walking and because my grip is strong, I can carry things pretty easily.” @hamorah67

GET YOUR COPY HERE and Get Started Now!
If you're a Lauren's Playground member you will receive this free with your membership! If not, what are you waiting for. Get in on the fun here.

The Ultimate Get Up Guide
Designed for the complete beginner and strong enough for the most advanced studentView from any device
40 Workout Video Tutorials6 Weeks of Get Up Practice sessions with detailed video tutorials.6 Weeks of Cross Training Exercises - Video Tutorials.Downloadable written program for each week.
“I find the Turkish Get Up to be meditative as well as physically challenging. It forces me to slow down my breath, raise the consciousness of my body, and believe in myself. It also helps me notice what parts of my body need more attention for strength-building. I actually like the descent of the TGU best, as I really turn inward while slowwwwly laying back down flat. That last motion, from elbow to shoulder, is something I'm currently working on improving.” H. Lapidus
“I have found the TGU to be an amazing exercise for getting my mind and body working together. There are so many working parts going on that the synergism of each muscle and the brain is paramount. Love it!” P. Wood
“Years ago when a lifter, sought out to be taught by the “old time “ masters of strength, the master would first have the student train with TGU’s. Even back then they knew the benefits acquired by performing a technically sound TGU. It applies stress to the body in all the planes (sagittal, frontal, transverse)It works not only qualities of strength, but also stability, mobility, joint integrity, and kinetic awareness. There is also an offset load component by holding the load in one hand, which really fires up the nervous system. Real important in Real Life. And think about it, if we can get off the floor with a good size kettlebell in one hand, how much easier it will be to get off the floor when we get older. Especially when you’ve coached some seventy- and eighty-year-olds to get off the floor themselves. That’s freedom. ☮ ” @coachbc
“Get Ups help my grip, my upper back, glutes and obliques. I make sure to do them at least four times a week. I remember, Lauren, that you spoke several years ago about how when you first started with kettlebells you could not do a TGU even though you were physically fit. At age 51, I want to be able to get up from the floor easily, and I can, in large part, because of TGUs. They help me to keep my torso stable when sitting and walking and because my grip is strong, I can carry things pretty easily.” @hamorah67

GET YOUR COPY HERE and Get Started Now!
If you're a Lauren's Playground member you will receive this free with your membership! If not, what are you waiting for. Get in on the fun here.
Published on August 04, 2018 15:11
July 16, 2018
Can Kids Learn How To Use Kettlebells? Check this out!
Many people come to me asking: "When's a good age to get my kids learning how to use kettlebells?" The answer is: it really all depends. It depends on the willingness of your child. It depends on what the goals are.
I've been training kids for some time now. The youngest being 7 years old. Usually the younger they are, the more challenging it is. Some kids are not ready until they're older.
Many times I won't even introduce the kettlebell until the 5th or 6th session. It truly depends on how they catch on to movement patters such as the hinge, squat and high plank. Many are excessively tight or overly loose. These are all important factors to keep in mind. You have to be VERY careful with kids, like you do with anyone.
If you want to get your kids training properly, with a bit of fun, make sure you hire a professional with a good track record. This is your chance to give your kids a great opportunity that will set them up for a life long experience of healthy training, which leads to increase in confidence, strength, increase in sports performance, conditioning and a more balanced body.
Below are videos of my own kids. It was just a few days ago they all came to me to ask me to start training. They have been watching so many kids come to us - many weak and uncoordinated, then quickly become strong and much more coordinated. This inspired them to ask me to teach them.
My step daughter, who is 8, has had one session. My 9 and 11 year old girls have had 2 sessions. Mind you, they sessions are only about 25-30 minutes long. That's all they need at this age with the right progressions.
If you're looking at getting your kids involved in training, contact us here. Of course we work with mostly adults, but the kids are killing it right now! Coach Graham, Mr Todd, is doing amazing with all the boys coming through! Girls are welcomed too!
Here are 2 video clips from our sessions.
I've been training kids for some time now. The youngest being 7 years old. Usually the younger they are, the more challenging it is. Some kids are not ready until they're older.
Many times I won't even introduce the kettlebell until the 5th or 6th session. It truly depends on how they catch on to movement patters such as the hinge, squat and high plank. Many are excessively tight or overly loose. These are all important factors to keep in mind. You have to be VERY careful with kids, like you do with anyone.
If you want to get your kids training properly, with a bit of fun, make sure you hire a professional with a good track record. This is your chance to give your kids a great opportunity that will set them up for a life long experience of healthy training, which leads to increase in confidence, strength, increase in sports performance, conditioning and a more balanced body.
Below are videos of my own kids. It was just a few days ago they all came to me to ask me to start training. They have been watching so many kids come to us - many weak and uncoordinated, then quickly become strong and much more coordinated. This inspired them to ask me to teach them.
My step daughter, who is 8, has had one session. My 9 and 11 year old girls have had 2 sessions. Mind you, they sessions are only about 25-30 minutes long. That's all they need at this age with the right progressions.
If you're looking at getting your kids involved in training, contact us here. Of course we work with mostly adults, but the kids are killing it right now! Coach Graham, Mr Todd, is doing amazing with all the boys coming through! Girls are welcomed too!
Here are 2 video clips from our sessions.
When both of your kids decide it’s time to begin training you make time! My 11 year old on the left and my 9 year old on the right. It makes me so happy to do it! # Lately we’ve had a surge of kids and teens train with us. Watching other kids, many who started out weak or uncoordinated, who are now strong and fierce, must’ve inspired them. # I vowed to never be a pushy parent. My own kids are not the most blessed with athleticism. They need this kind of training more than ever. So to have them ask me to train them is a prayer being answered. #poudmom #kettlebellkids #laurensplayground #kettlebellworkoutA post shared by ℒᎯUℛℰℕ ℬℛᎾᎾᏦЅ
Published on July 16, 2018 10:07
July 8, 2018
Featuring Denice - 60 year old female - 53lb Turkish Get Up - Stronger than ever
Meet Denice Johnson
Denice is a 60 year old powerhouse of a woman who's been using kettlebells for about 7 years. Despite her ongoing battle with hypothyroidism, she feels energetic, thanks to the time she spends on her training and health.
Denice considers herself a very average person who does not dwell on a specific diet, she doesn't count her macros, much less stress over how much water she drinks daily. She likes to live life and not over think things.
Denice is a busy lady. She works at an office 3 days per week, takes care of her husband, pets, home, landscape and doesn't have the luxury to spend all day exercising.
One of her secrets to training is not letting fear get the best of her. Her motto is "excuses will get me nowhere fast". She feels that there are no room for excuses in her world of fitness and improvement. But she also takes a very balanced approach by giving herself breaks when she knows it’s truly necessary.
A few of Denice's accomplishments:
"After struggling with presses for several years, stuck on the 12kg, I can now floor press the 16kg (35lb) x 5 reps, both sides. I can also overhead press the 16kg x4 reps. (admittedly, the left side the last rep is super tough) I’m able to press the 12kg (26lb) for 10 reps, which I find pretty good!!
I'm snatching the 18kg (40lbs), both half snatch and full snatch for 6 and 4 reps but feel I can do more reps.
I can easily do 3 sets of 8 perfect push ups. I’m doing weighted chin ups WITH 12lb. weight for 3 reps and my non weighted chin ups feel better every time.
My leg strength is pretty good. I’m using my heaviest bell, the 32kg, for MSLDL for 10/10 and 8/8 reps. Stiff leg deadlifts, 32kg for 15 reps x 2 sets. Goblet Squats I use the 28kg for 5 reps. Can probably use the 32kg but honestly, swinging that bell up to catch is intimidating!!!
For the get ups, I’ve moved up from the heaviest bell being the 18kg, to the 20kg andNow to the 24kg (53lb). I’ve done the getup x 1/1 now for 3 weeks using the 24kg. ☺
Here's a video of tiny Denice, 60 years old, doing a 53 pound Turkish Get Up. Most 20 years old can't do this!
left side video of 53lb Get Up - (Modifies accordingly on her wrist)
Right side video of 53lb Turkish Get Up
Overall, honestly I feel strong. I know when it’s time to go up in bell size and I also know when it’s time to stay and work a little longer before moving up as in double clean and front squats. I’m using the 14kg’s, I know I could use the 16kg’s, but I feel the 14’s are work so it’s just not time to move up just yet.
Getting my strength training in is like breathing air, I do not think about it, it’s just a part of my day. I look forward to it most days. Having a good program keeps me confident that I’m not wasting my time. My motivation is my goal to stay strong and able to meet the demands of living an active life for many more years. I’m 60 years old and I’m able to do just about anything I need or want to do. I can carry a heavy cooler, I can move heavy rocks or dig holes for plants. I can climb a ladder with a backpack blower on my back to blow off the roof of the house. I can help carry a keg of beer (which is about every 7 weeks!!). I can paddleboard for hours without my legs or arms totally wearing out.
Being consistent with strength training is working for me. I’ve been active with running or strength training now for 40 years, when I think about that, it’s amazing.
I feel I’m a pretty energetic person (even though I battle hypothyroidism). I just mostly feel good, and I know it’s because of the time I take to work on my health."
Quick note to me from Denice:
Denice at the Kettlebell and Body Weight Workshop in Charlotte, NC
Denice is a 60 year old powerhouse of a woman who's been using kettlebells for about 7 years. Despite her ongoing battle with hypothyroidism, she feels energetic, thanks to the time she spends on her training and health.
Denice considers herself a very average person who does not dwell on a specific diet, she doesn't count her macros, much less stress over how much water she drinks daily. She likes to live life and not over think things.
Denice is a busy lady. She works at an office 3 days per week, takes care of her husband, pets, home, landscape and doesn't have the luxury to spend all day exercising. One of her secrets to training is not letting fear get the best of her. Her motto is "excuses will get me nowhere fast". She feels that there are no room for excuses in her world of fitness and improvement. But she also takes a very balanced approach by giving herself breaks when she knows it’s truly necessary.
A few of Denice's accomplishments:
"After struggling with presses for several years, stuck on the 12kg, I can now floor press the 16kg (35lb) x 5 reps, both sides. I can also overhead press the 16kg x4 reps. (admittedly, the left side the last rep is super tough) I’m able to press the 12kg (26lb) for 10 reps, which I find pretty good!!
I'm snatching the 18kg (40lbs), both half snatch and full snatch for 6 and 4 reps but feel I can do more reps. I can easily do 3 sets of 8 perfect push ups. I’m doing weighted chin ups WITH 12lb. weight for 3 reps and my non weighted chin ups feel better every time.
My leg strength is pretty good. I’m using my heaviest bell, the 32kg, for MSLDL for 10/10 and 8/8 reps. Stiff leg deadlifts, 32kg for 15 reps x 2 sets. Goblet Squats I use the 28kg for 5 reps. Can probably use the 32kg but honestly, swinging that bell up to catch is intimidating!!!
For the get ups, I’ve moved up from the heaviest bell being the 18kg, to the 20kg andNow to the 24kg (53lb). I’ve done the getup x 1/1 now for 3 weeks using the 24kg. ☺
Here's a video of tiny Denice, 60 years old, doing a 53 pound Turkish Get Up. Most 20 years old can't do this!
left side video of 53lb Get Up - (Modifies accordingly on her wrist)
Right side video of 53lb Turkish Get Up
Overall, honestly I feel strong. I know when it’s time to go up in bell size and I also know when it’s time to stay and work a little longer before moving up as in double clean and front squats. I’m using the 14kg’s, I know I could use the 16kg’s, but I feel the 14’s are work so it’s just not time to move up just yet.
Getting my strength training in is like breathing air, I do not think about it, it’s just a part of my day. I look forward to it most days. Having a good program keeps me confident that I’m not wasting my time. My motivation is my goal to stay strong and able to meet the demands of living an active life for many more years. I’m 60 years old and I’m able to do just about anything I need or want to do. I can carry a heavy cooler, I can move heavy rocks or dig holes for plants. I can climb a ladder with a backpack blower on my back to blow off the roof of the house. I can help carry a keg of beer (which is about every 7 weeks!!). I can paddleboard for hours without my legs or arms totally wearing out.
Being consistent with strength training is working for me. I’ve been active with running or strength training now for 40 years, when I think about that, it’s amazing.
I feel I’m a pretty energetic person (even though I battle hypothyroidism). I just mostly feel good, and I know it’s because of the time I take to work on my health."
Quick note to me from Denice:
"Thanks for making my accomplishments part of your story as you are a BIG part of my story. You know I followed a well known Kettlebell Strength coach for about 4 years, working harder than hell and not making the definition or strength gains that I’ve gotten from following you these last 3 years. So truly, a warm Thank You.
Denice"
Denice at the Kettlebell and Body Weight Workshop in Charlotte, NC
Published on July 08, 2018 14:36
July 3, 2018
Summer Kickoff Workouts - Quick workouts under 10 minutes you can do anywhere!
Grab a single bell and your body and head over to your favorite park, beach or favorite place in your home. From your iPad, iphone, android or any mobile device stream these workouts instantly. Or blast it to your big screen for the whole family! In addition to joining in on the summer workouts we have over 2 programs to choose from, this is our latest one.
Summer Kickoff workouts!
Join today and get started!
If you're BRAND NEW to fitness or kettlebell training we have a beginners program. If you're intermediate or advanced we have something for you too!
Something for every level, shape, size, goals!
Well what are you waiting for? Quick trailer of the new workouts added.
Become a member of Lauren's Playground here.
Become a member of Lauren's Playground here. Less than a cup of coffee per day! The only mobile gym you'll ever need. The best investment you can ask for!
Videos, Downloadable written workouts, programs, recipes and nutrition advice. Private Facebook support group to meet other people, find a buddy and get questions answered.
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Interested in a fun way to get super strong and lean? Learn how to use Kettlebells or take your training to the next level! Bust through your plateau with any of our Kettlebell fitness programs. Not sure where to begin... I made a list for you. Get 50% off today. Code: july4thWe are having a HUGE SALE! 50% off all of our DVDs and Downloadable streaming programs. This excludes Mighty Muscle. Code: july4th
BEGINNER Video Programs
The Kettlebell BodyUltimate Body Sculpt and Conditioning with Kettlebells Sexy StrengthShut Up and Train Be SLAM (ebook with video demonstrations)
INTERMEDIATE/ ADVANCED
All above plus
Kettlebell Incinerator Kettlebell LightningLuscious & Lean Kettlebell RevelationLow Volume (streaming only)Be SLAM 2 (ebook/video)Pull Up Guide Ultimate Body Sculpt Vol. 2&3
Link for streaming and downloads here --> http://video.ontheedgefitness.com*excludes Mighty Muscle* “Free for Lauren’s Playground members”
Link for DVD hard copies here
Published on July 03, 2018 14:16
June 10, 2018
Want a Stronger Feeling Kettlebell Snatch?
I want to share with you one protocol that has worked almost every single time with both my local and distant students. This is one way to take your snatch strength to the next level.
Recorded on Live Streaming in the Raw.
Watch Video here.
To learn more and get programs that will constantly set you up for the best performance and strength possible, join Lauren's Playground here
Recorded on Live Streaming in the Raw.
Watch Video here.
To learn more and get programs that will constantly set you up for the best performance and strength possible, join Lauren's Playground here
Published on June 10, 2018 10:57
May 17, 2018
The Secret From Ordinary To Extraordinary
Before I begin my training session, which will entail practicing Get Ups, Single Leg Deadlifts, Pull-ups and Kickstand Lunges, I wanted to send you a quick note.Your mind is so much more powerful than you could ever imagine. Did you know that if you're stressed out or constantly worrying about something it can directly effect how you digest food? Then if you're not digesting food well, you could end up getting headaches, migraines, bloating and even lose sleep.Our minds are so powerful that if we are constantly telling ourselves that something is too hard or "I'll never be strong since I've always had super weak arms" then you will continue with weak arms. You're probably thinking yeah Lauren, what's your point?Not everyone who's showing off their circus tricks online are born athletes or had the privilege of having dedicated parents cart them over to gymnastics starting from birth. My parents were divorced when I was 2 and they both worked full time. I was taken in a school bus after school to a day care every single day. So outside extra-curricular luxurious extras, was not something I was ever accustomed to.Some of the strength or flexibility you may be in awe of from someone may be someone who just really wanted it! Who made the choice to PRACTICE and PRIORITIZE. Typical programs just focused on weight loss doesn't get you better at a skill. Skill training can actually provide muscle strength and weight loss as a byproduct!When I was a kid I couldn't do a pull up to save my life. In fact I was weak and scrawny. It really did a number on my confidence. I couldn't stand that I was weak. In fact I got ANGRY about it. So I decided one day, that's it! I'm going to get effing strong! So I did everything in my power to learn the best way to strength! It took years of strength practice to achieve the strength I have now. I'm no different than you! In fact you were probably way more athletic than I was when I was super young. ;)Want to know the secret from being ordinary to extraordinary?MAKE IT A PRIORITY! Hyper-focus on just ONE goal at a time! Understand that there will be monotony. Understand you'll be practicing the same SKILL over and over again. You'll have to understand that it won't happen over night and killing yourself in a "practice" session won't make it come any sooner. You'll need to understand that there won't be much entertainment and cheerleaders. Get clear and focus on the fact that you'll become extraordinary if you commit!When I was first introduced to Turkish Get Ups I was quickly humbled. I could barely even do a Get up with an 8 pound dumbbell. My ego wanted to just curse at the exercise and say it was stupid. However, I decided to practice the patterns. Understand what creates a STRONG pathway. Get familiar with the most efficient way to get up and get down.I was told that if you're small there is no way to use heavy weight. Fast forward some years later, weighing 116lbs,I had a personal record using a 62lb kettlebell over my head.This wasn't because I was a super human. I didn't take any special pills or drugs to be able to perform a really heavy Get Up for my size.. The secret was I made a commitment and was consistent! I never felt sore or burned out. I listened to my body.I practiced the movement pattern well, worked on mobility and complimentary exercises that would enhance the chances of going from a weak Get up to a very strong Get Up.I tell you this for one reason only! That if I can do it, so can you! Check out my free tutorials I created for Get Ups. SO you can also become strong in the exercise that literally will make you stronger in all areas of life! Part 1 Tutorial can be accessed
here
I'm currently in the process of designing the Ultimate Get Up Guide to achieve the Strongest and Raddest Get Up ever! If you're a
playground member
you will have access to this gem for no extra charge! Yes - being a
playground member
will literally take you FAR! Give you smart tools and skills. Give you programs that are realistic! You will be surrounded with positive powerful minds who have the same struggles as you! You will feel supported and have a buddy system for accountability. You really can't lose!
WANT TO TRY A WORKOUT FOR FREE?GET FREE ACCESS TO ONE OF OUR MOST POPULAR KETTLEBELL WORKOUT VIDEOS HERE
WANT TO TRY A WORKOUT FOR FREE?GET FREE ACCESS TO ONE OF OUR MOST POPULAR KETTLEBELL WORKOUT VIDEOS HERE
Published on May 17, 2018 10:23
May 7, 2018
CONFESSION #4 - I'm not a perfect mom
CONFESSION #4 - I'm Not A Perfect Mom
CONFESSION #4 I’m not a perfect mom. I must admit, there’s been times where I throw my hands up with frustration and feel as if I’m just not cut out for the mother thing. Often wondering how other moms out there do it. Then there are times where I feel being a mom is the greatest gift on this universe. I’ve looked around at other moms, you know the ones that always look cool, calm and perfectly put together, running around solo with 6 kids. Anyone know those moms?
We moms often put entirely too much pressure on ourselves. Have you ever noticed moms can be the most judgmental of other moms? We like to compare our lives and keep score.
I often over hear conversations like this in “mom groups”. Wow it took her a long time to get the baby weight off? I haven’t seen her volunteer at school much. She’s on another work trip? Doesn’t she care about her kids? She’s at the gym again? Doesn’t she ever go to her kids performances? How many activities are her kids in? That mom cooks only organic, from scratch and is always put together. How does she do it? I saw that mom taking her kids to McDonald’s the other day, she clearly doesn’t care about health. She’s always out with her friends, she must have a bad marriage. She never goes out, she must be antisocial. The judgement never ends!
The constant pressure to be THE PERFECT mom is overwhelming. Moms come in all forms. They can be career women, stay at home or do both. She can cook from scratch, order out, wear lots of make up or wear no make up at all. She can be skinny, muscular, big, laugh a lot or be serious. She can choose to be a badass and throw some heavy weights around or choose to be mellow and binge watch tv. There’s no right or wrong. There’s no perfect way and nobody has it down to a perfect science. We’re all doing the very best we know how.
Moms, let’s unite and support each other. Let other moms release the guilt from the pressure. Being a mom is effing hard! I don’t have it down pat. I love the ever living crap out of my kids. I also love my passions and savor my moments alone being guilt free. Cheers to all of the imperfect moms out there doing it their way! #momlife#perfectlyimperfect
CONFESSION #4 I’m not a perfect mom. I must admit, there’s been times where I throw my hands up with frustration and feel as if I’m just not cut out for the mother thing. Often wondering how other moms out there do it. Then there are times where I feel being a mom is the greatest gift on this universe. I’ve looked around at other moms, you know the ones that always look cool, calm and perfectly put together, running around solo with 6 kids. Anyone know those moms?
We moms often put entirely too much pressure on ourselves. Have you ever noticed moms can be the most judgmental of other moms? We like to compare our lives and keep score.
I often over hear conversations like this in “mom groups”. Wow it took her a long time to get the baby weight off? I haven’t seen her volunteer at school much. She’s on another work trip? Doesn’t she care about her kids? She’s at the gym again? Doesn’t she ever go to her kids performances? How many activities are her kids in? That mom cooks only organic, from scratch and is always put together. How does she do it? I saw that mom taking her kids to McDonald’s the other day, she clearly doesn’t care about health. She’s always out with her friends, she must have a bad marriage. She never goes out, she must be antisocial. The judgement never ends!
The constant pressure to be THE PERFECT mom is overwhelming. Moms come in all forms. They can be career women, stay at home or do both. She can cook from scratch, order out, wear lots of make up or wear no make up at all. She can be skinny, muscular, big, laugh a lot or be serious. She can choose to be a badass and throw some heavy weights around or choose to be mellow and binge watch tv. There’s no right or wrong. There’s no perfect way and nobody has it down to a perfect science. We’re all doing the very best we know how.
Moms, let’s unite and support each other. Let other moms release the guilt from the pressure. Being a mom is effing hard! I don’t have it down pat. I love the ever living crap out of my kids. I also love my passions and savor my moments alone being guilt free. Cheers to all of the imperfect moms out there doing it their way! #momlife#perfectlyimperfect
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Published on May 07, 2018 08:32
April 19, 2018
CONFESSION #3 - I haven't always loved females
CONFESSION #3 - CHOOSE KIND Mean girls are real
I haven’t always loved females. This isn’t a bash session against women. But I need to get this off my chest. Before you begin the hate comments, hear me out... I’m a woman whose mission in life is to empower other women. But there’s a reason behind this. Mean girls are real! Have you ever encountered a mean girl before?
So here it goes... I was bullied as a kid. I was the new girl in a small town in Sugar Land (Texas), mourning over leaving my dad and friends in Los Angeles (California).
I was different. I spoke differently. I didn't have a Southern accent. My hair wasn’t like the other girls. It was thick, frizzy and hard to tame in the humid Houston climate. I was a scrawny little girl (smallest in the class) no muscle, no butt and awkwardly had large boobs (as I developed very early). When you’re in middle school and skinny, apparently you’re not “allowed” to have breasts. I was called all kinds of names and ridiculed in front of the new peers. These “mean girls” told everyone I stuffed my bra, called me names like taxidermist, nappy head, stuck gum in my hair, kicked and tripped me in between classes. I was defenseless and had no voice. I was shy and did what I could to hide my new body.
I’ve been betrayed and stabbed in the back by other women as an adult. But through all of this I found the most amazing and wonderful female friends that I’ll love forever. Passionate, loving, loyal and kind women! Women who aren’t filled with jealousy and hate for other women. Women who don’t spend their lives comparing themselves to everyone else.
Thank you MEAN girls for teaching me how NOT to be. I purposely go out of my way to include someone who may be shy, feel left out or just need a friend. Thank you for making me become a mentally and physically STRONG woman.
I love my female sisters. I still love the cruel backstabbing women, but I don’t have to like them. I forgive you. I teach my girls to CHOOSE KIND. I don’t claim to have always chosen this path and I’m sorry if I ever hurt you. If I did, it wasn’t you, it was me. My own demons. All I can do now is focus on love. #choosekind
I haven’t always loved females. This isn’t a bash session against women. But I need to get this off my chest. Before you begin the hate comments, hear me out... I’m a woman whose mission in life is to empower other women. But there’s a reason behind this. Mean girls are real! Have you ever encountered a mean girl before?
So here it goes... I was bullied as a kid. I was the new girl in a small town in Sugar Land (Texas), mourning over leaving my dad and friends in Los Angeles (California).
I was different. I spoke differently. I didn't have a Southern accent. My hair wasn’t like the other girls. It was thick, frizzy and hard to tame in the humid Houston climate. I was a scrawny little girl (smallest in the class) no muscle, no butt and awkwardly had large boobs (as I developed very early). When you’re in middle school and skinny, apparently you’re not “allowed” to have breasts. I was called all kinds of names and ridiculed in front of the new peers. These “mean girls” told everyone I stuffed my bra, called me names like taxidermist, nappy head, stuck gum in my hair, kicked and tripped me in between classes. I was defenseless and had no voice. I was shy and did what I could to hide my new body.
I’ve been betrayed and stabbed in the back by other women as an adult. But through all of this I found the most amazing and wonderful female friends that I’ll love forever. Passionate, loving, loyal and kind women! Women who aren’t filled with jealousy and hate for other women. Women who don’t spend their lives comparing themselves to everyone else.
Thank you MEAN girls for teaching me how NOT to be. I purposely go out of my way to include someone who may be shy, feel left out or just need a friend. Thank you for making me become a mentally and physically STRONG woman.
I love my female sisters. I still love the cruel backstabbing women, but I don’t have to like them. I forgive you. I teach my girls to CHOOSE KIND. I don’t claim to have always chosen this path and I’m sorry if I ever hurt you. If I did, it wasn’t you, it was me. My own demons. All I can do now is focus on love. #choosekind
A post shared by ℒᎯUℛℰℕ ℬℛᎾᎾᏦЅ
Published on April 19, 2018 09:23
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