Too many of us take our bodies for granted. We sit for hours, or train constantly (me!) without fully contemplating the stress our lifestyle places on our bodies.

Every once in a while, members of the fitness media will highlight the extreme diet and exercise regimes that make up the "dark side" of the fitness field. Of course, this stance can be slightly hypocritical since so much of the field is predicated on selling both the product -- and ideals -- associated with extreme weight loss solutions.

Recovery is going very well. I am pleased to feel more like myself before Christmas. It had its hurdles but nothing feels better than being on this side of healing. I look very forward to lifting again. Had to pop in and share these delicious drinks with you all.

Another festive season is here (and the stores are already in Christmas mode). These days our holidays seem to roll into each other – Thanksgiving, Hallowe'en, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter, Canada Day, birthdays in there somewhere, and perhaps anniversary celebrations too. This means the commercial world is constantly tempting us with seasonal foods and beverages. There are large ......

Playing with food is always a big component in our kitchen. We love good tasting, good for you foods. This helps me as an athlete, my kids grow stronger, and my family stay healthy. We enjoy getting creative with fruits and vegetables. A main staple in my diet is a protein shake post-workout. I thought I would share some of our favorites.

Many of my clients have questions about what they read online, heard on TV, or were told by a well-meaning friend or colleague. In an era of information overload, it can become difficult to sort through the studies and headlines. For many people it often comes down to using “common sense" or a gut feeling, but that just means it's a personal choice or subjective decision. If you're not sure, seek out the experts in their respective fields (I don't ask my dentist to dye my hair after all). Health professionals should be using current research and evidence in their practices.

It's back to school and time for fall activities to start. For many people, including my clients, this means packing lunches for their kids, acting as a chauffeur and putting healthy eating further down the priority list. You may be trying to enjoy the nice weather or get outside to move your body, but find that you're too busy. Whatever reasons or excuses you have for not eating healthfully, there are many possible solutions when you're motivated to change.

Athletes and active individuals don't always have a lot of time or money to spend on their diet. Yet, we know that food and beverage choices have an effect on health, performance, and recovery. Whether it's a university or college student living on their own while at school or a triathlete training away from home, healthy eating CAN occur on a budget. This may mean dealing with a tight schedule and limited cooking skills, but a little preparation can go a long way and allow you to do the same.

Let me start this blog off by asking you a question: do you think that if we were to duplicate your genetics, and we were to feed one of you 2000 calories of chicken, and the other 2000 calories of ice cream, your body would end up the same? Of course not. It just sounds hilarious to begin with.