Thursday, February 20, 2014

Spin Class and Greek Yogurt!


Exercise of the Week: SPIN CLASS 

For the new year i decided to start trying out new classes at the local gym, just to provide variety to my workouts. My first class choice was Combat Cycle, otherwise known as Spin class. This class has always been immensely intimidating to me but i was determined! I ended up loving it, yes it is difficult but the benefit definitely out weighed the struggle. It is definitely a must try!

Benefits: 

  • You get your own adjustable stationary bike with the ability to track your speed and calories burned
  • You control your resistance 
  • This is a great cardiovascular workout that improves your stamina while toning your buns, legs and thighs
  • Spin class burns approximately 7-13 calories per minute (You could burn 420-780 calories in just one hour long class!)
The american heart association recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week (30 minutes a day). Spin class can cover 45-60 of these minutes so why not give it a try? 

Food of the week: Greek YogurtOne of my favorite snacks is Greek yogurt! Not only is it delicious and comes in a variety of flavors, it is a great source of protein and Healthy probiotics. There are a bunch of brands out there from which you can choose from but i would base the decision on the sugar content (keep it as low as possible) and the taste of course! I prefer Dannon light and fit greek yogurt so my benefits listed are going to be based on this specific brand.


Benefits: 


  • Fairly inexpensive (anywhere from $3.99-$5.99 depending on where you live)
  • Quick grab and go snack
  • Contain probiotics which are healthy bacteria that support the digestion process
  • Separated into single servings for portion control 
  • 80 calories in 1 container (150g)
  • Has the LAC (Live& Active Culture) seal (see http://aboutyogurt.com/Live-Culture for more information) 
  • Only 7 grams of sugar per 1 container (150g)
  • 12 grams of protein per 1 container (150g) 
According to DRI's Estimated Average Requirements females ages 19-70 should have 46 grams of protein a day and males ages 19-70 should have 56 grams of protein a day. One Dannon light and fit contributes 26% of women's and 21% of men's daily recommended protein intake. 

References: 
http://www.lightandfit.com/light-yogurt/light-and-fit-greek
http://www.iom.edu/Activities/Nutrition/SummaryDRIs/~/media/Files/Activity%20Files/Nutrition/DRIs/5_Summary%20Table%20Tables%201-4.pdf

http://aboutyogurt.com/Live-Culture