a review of, & constant pursuit of, THE BALLET PHYSIQUE

I LOVE that feeling you get from a great workout. The wobbly, shaky, I think I'm going to fall over, feeling. Know what I mean?

I was sent The Ballet Physique dvd's to screen....and let me just say, love.them.

So here was my set up for my work outs....


Beau was ready, leg warmers & all :)


I want leg warmers for me. Minor side note.

Here's some info on The Ballet Physique:
The Ballet Physique DVD Collection is suitable for every fitness level and features two distinct routines. These full-body workouts are designed to melt fat, blast calories, define your midsection, and awaken muscles you never knew existed. The Ballet Physique’s ballet-trained and certified fitness instructors provide detailed cues and modifications that allow you to tailor each exercise to your level. The results will prove that you don't have to be a dancer to look like one.
The Ballet Physique method was created by nationally certified fitness instructor, dancer, and entrepreneur Kristen Zurek. She discovered barre fitness while living in New York City and later conceived the unique fitness regime, which fuses the barre fitness concept with the foundations of classical ballet. Zurek opened The Ballet Physique Fitness Studio in August 2010. It is the first independently-owned barre fitness studio in the Denver region.
“I created The Ballet Physique barre fitness method to prove that you can get the toned, lithe figure of a dancer without having to be one,” said Zurek. “We’ve seen many of our studio clients achieve beautifully lean and sculpted bodies and gain confidence, energy and grace through our workouts. I wanted to produce our DVD Collection for people who aren’t able to take our studio classes and provide everyone with affordable access to our unique and transforming workouts.”
There are 2 workouts:
·Signature Sculpt - a 60-minute dynamo workout that concentrates on toning the muscles using lighter weights, intense exercise sequences, and ballet-inspired positions. It's a program formulated to help develop a lean, graceful body.
·Amped Up - a 45-minute express class, focusing on building strength and boosting the metabolism through the use of heavier weights and fast-paced exercises. It's the perfect workout to maximize calorie burn when you're in a time crunch.

Signature Sculpt is led by Kristen Zurek, while Amped Up is led by Kristin Skordahl. Both ladies have dance experience....not just "hey, I went to Zumba once or twice"....or "yeah I did ballet when I was 2". Both have 18+ years experience in ballet.

Amped Up - 45-minute express class DVD, focusing on building strength and boosting your metabolism through the use of heavier weights and fast-paced exercises.

Signature Sculpt - 60-minute dynamo workout DVD that concentrates on toning your muscles using lighter weights, intense exercise sequences, and ballet-inspired positions.

I always am probably the MOST critical on instructors when it comes to cuing. There's nothing worse than being in a step aerobics class & the instructor cuing you 2 minutes after you were supposed to have begun your 'hammer curls, corner to corner'. (My scrutiny comes from my degree in Exercise Science, so yes, I can judge) :)

The cuing was spot on in these workouts. The way that the instructors transitioned from different muscle groups was seamless.

Here's a sampling (you can see more video samplings here):



Who doesn't want to have the body of a ballerina?

Here is the necessary equipment: light weights (I used 3lbs & 5lbs), a playground ball, a yoga mat, a cushion (something firmer than a pillow), and a ballet barre.

While I still do not have a ballet barre, I highly encourage you to purchase one. Yes, you can use a sturdy piece of furniture, but I kept finding myself compensating form due to lack of range of motion for some of the exercises.

Another suggestion, invest in yoga socks / shoes. (In Walmart terms, the "no skid" socks). The gals sport them in the workouts....theirs are pink & black....LOVE THEM. Mine are grey & black, and were included in a PopSugar Box one month. I would prefer the pink & black.....just saying.

I have always been a fan of barre workouts - I love the toning, and the fact that it's fast paced & uses body weight. If combined with a healthy diet, The Ballet Physique could really transform your body!

I took this from their FAQ page:
How do you compare to other barre programs? The difference lies in the fact that we are locally-owned and not a franchised studio, which means that we can adapt quickly to the needs of our clients and consistently provide outstanding service. It also allows our instructors the flexibility to vary their exercises, choreography and music so that no two classes are exactly alike. This being said, The Ballet Physique is rooted in the same Lotte Berk Method technique as many other barre workouts.

In my opinion, I did find this workout more on the advanced side versus the beginner. While there are modifications for the beginner, I do think they are more "advanced beginner". Ultimately, you will have to give the workout a few tries before just "giving up" and saying it's too difficult. It does require balance & stability - but hello! By improving upon your balance & stability, you're working your core muscles.

Here's some more info from their site:
Our classes have also been proven to dramatically improve core strength and posture by making correct alignment an integral part of each exercise. While a stronger set of core muscles will help you attain a ballerina's lifted appearance, it will also keep you safe from debilitating lower back injuries. Our program can even be made safe for those with existing back or joint injuries, because it is low-impact. The small, intense and precise movements featured in Ballet Physique classes are designed to build lean muscle and melt a significant amount of calories and fat in record time. Although immensely challenging, clients find that the time spent in class passes very quickly due to the nonstop pace, variety of exercises, motivating music, and passionate instructors. If you are worried about "not getting it," rest assured that our instructors will guide you through challenging movements with modifications specific to your needs.

Clients who perform the Ballet Physique program 3-4 times a week can begin seeing beautiful and noticeable changes in as little as one month. These will include: leaner thighs, shapely hamstrings, chiseled arms, a tighter waistline, and a firm, lifted seat.

Like any other workouts, you persevere and build up endurance. When I was running, I didn't just start out running 10 miles. It took what felt like FOREVER to build up to that. (Unlike Sarah who can run 40 miles and not break a sweat.)

If you're in the Littleton, Colorado area or surrounding area, you should pop in to the studio! Give the workout a test run!
Tell them I sent you. Here is their class schedule: https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/home.asp?studioid=11890

If you're like me, and not in their area....check out their DVDs.


DVD Collection - The DVD Collection includes both Signature Sculpt and Amped Up DVDs plus a complimentary Ballet Physique branded exercise ball.

For all readers of my blog, enter promo code FFF20 at checkout for 20% off the collection of dvds!!!! 

If you purchase the "collection" of dvds, you get the playground ball. It's PINK. I have a playground ball....but I want this one.

Remember though the promo code is only for the COLLECTION. It is only good until December 31st!

Perfect for those New Years Resolutions!

And Santa, take note: Ballet Physique socks & playground ball, please!

scavenger hunt

Totally posting just about Stella & Dot right now....read on though, especially if you're in the market for jewelry!

People's Style Watch has posted a holiday gift guide of sorts, and included Stella & Dot. In that posting there is a 50% off promo code.

I can't just give it to you....read here to find it!

Here are the pieces you can score at half off with that promo code....

Sierra - hands down one of my most favorite pieces...the metal is more bronze.
Sierra Necklace

Fatima

LIMITED EDITION - Fatima Necklace

Aphrodite
Limited Edition - Aphrodite Necklace


Indira - fun fact, Lindzi wore this on the Bachelor Pad :)

Indira Necklace

Mischa - I'm not sure that this picture does this necklace justice. I'm sure it's amazeballs in person.
LIMITED EDITION - Mischa Necklace

Stevie - perhaps named after the Fleetwood Mac singer? Either way, rock goddess necklace.
Stevie Necklace


Alexandria - another of my absolute favs!
Alexandria Necklace

So here's how it works....go HERE (opens in new window)

Log in to your account or create an account. Super easy.

Add the necklace of your choice to your shopping bag (you can get 1 of each if you want...just no duplicates)

Enter the promo code PEOPLESD
:)

Depending on when you see this....there is a special for Monday only....get this bracelet for $9.95
Hematite Cupchain Bracelet

The discount for the bracelet is applied at checkout :)

Happy shopping!
www.stelladot.com/fashionablyniki

i shop on any day ending in "y"

Cyber Monday. No different than any other day. Except if you do not normally shop online & this is the one day out of the year that you actually DO!

I prefer shopping online. No crowds. No sales people. Just me, in my jammies, with a cup of coffee.

Bliss.

Since the hubs has been known to sporadically read my blog...I can not say what deals I scored today. Hello, Christmas gifts!!

Here some places I do recommend you checking out....

Victorias Secret - use FREE50 for free shipping on $50, use MONDAY for an extra secret rewards card (yes, that's going on right now), and use PINKSPOT for a free mini dog. (Does anyone else collect these gosh darn things!? I'm a sucker for freebies.)

Ideeli - (invitation link under my "shopping site" tab)....free shipping for 30 days, once you place your order.

RueLaLa - just check out the sales

Ettika - I have a minor obsession with their bracelets. Nobody understands though.



Stella & Dot - add $50 to your cart, get the hematite cupchain bracelet for $9.95
Today Only! Spend $50 and get this bracelet for $9.95 - Shop Now! Double wraps, instantly creating the layered look. Hematite Cupchain Bracelet Regularly $59. *Click here for details.

peace couture fashion show

Well paint my front door red & call me Elizabeth Arden!



Friday night, I was invited to attend the Peace Couture fashion show at the lovely Italian Club in Ybor!

What is the Peace Couture? This is from their website:
Peace Couture is a multi-media event highlighting local fashion designers, artists and musicians. The latest local fashions will be spotlighted in a spectacular runway show, featuring a live performance by Zulu Wave. The event will also feature a "pop-up" retail area with some of Tampa's most unique vendors of clothing, accessories and jewelry, as well as a "nail art" bar. The featured artists will create site-specific installations in the Italian Club Theatre. After the runway show join us for an after party featuring a performance by GUILTMAKER.
Since my birthday was the day before, I figured it could be a fun little "girl's night out". So I made Emily go with me - kicking & screaming that she had to be seen with me :)



 The Spring of Tampa Bay hosted the event. Here's some information on The Spring taken from their website:
The mission of The Spring of Tampa Bay, Inc. is to prevent domestic violence, protect victims and promote change in lives, families and communities. Since our founding in 1977, The Spring has provided sanctuary and services to more than 60,000 abused adults and their children.
Since the fashion show portion did not begin until 8:30pm, Emily & I browsed the "pop up" boutique portion of the event. Loved it!



Some of the paticipants were:

Stella & Dot - which was funny because when I explained to MattyB that I was asked to cover the event, he was like "oh, for your Stella & Dot biz?" - - I had to then remind him that at a relatively not too long of time ago, I was a fashionable blogger that everyone was vying for. No?

A & A Boutique - cute little "repeat" boutique. Here's where I plan to take all my Louboutins & Blahniks when I tire of wearing them. Wait a sec, what am I talking about? I mean, when I actually OWN a pair.

Creme de la Creme - Tampa's "cutest little gift shop"! Emily was ecstatic to see Tyler candles on their display! I was oogling over their fun cocktail napkins, especially this one...


Bella Faccia Med Spa - they sponsored a "nail art bar". We spent a rather long time here :) I can tie in a quick review of Sally Hansen's Nail Effects here, right? Great. While I didn't actually apply the stickers, they appeared to go on rather easily & turned out fab! And let me just say, the esthetician that was running this fun little nail art bar, has a deeply kept beauty secret. She looked to be about 25....when in fact she was turning 40 the next day! She wouldn't tell me her secret.


my red nails & leopard art, Emily's metallic nails

i was just a wee bit obsessed with how it turned out :)
ring is Sidewinder by Stella & Dot


There was also a silent auction going on, with paintings & a scultpure done by local artists. I have never been good at interpreting art. So how would you have interpreted this piece?



So 8:30pm rolled around - we made our way to the 3rd level of this beautiful building.

The fashion show consisted of 4 local fashion designers, a boutique in Ybor and then the Spring Boutique. I was actually really excited for this portion because I had missed our Tampa Bay Fashion Week event, and these designers showed there.

First up was Spathose...."wearable sculpture" - INDEED!






Second, Sandra Hagen




Third, Monstruosite by Dolly Donshey - made me want a blinged out eye patch!




Fourth, Wicked Betty Designs





Fifth, La France which is a vintage boutique in Ybor.







and the show closed with the Spring Boutique



The Spring Boutique portion featured local celebs like Miss Florida, and the lovely Serina Farzan from our local ABC News.

Something informative that was done, a gal came out in between each different designer with an alarming statistic painted on to the back of the canvases that were being auctioned off.

Photos by Kyle Fleming Photography


When the events came to a close, I had the munchies (naturally - shopping does that to you). So we walked next door to the tasty La Creperia Cafe and chowed down!

Shockingly, this was my first experience with Nutella. It was good in the crepe, but I'm not a huge fan of it by itself. Then again, what's not good in a crepe?

Medina Bib necklace by Stell & Dot
Photo courtesy of Kyle Fleming Photography
So I never ever claimed to be a good photographer....check out some legit pics of the event here:
http://www.proofing.kyleflemingphotography.com/event/100588

flash sale - don't miss out!

Stella & Dot has started doing these FLASH SALES. I love them. And I want to share the joy with you.

So here you go.


It lasts for 48 hours - so act now if you're interested! HOLLA!

After the Rain bracelet - on sale for $31.60 down from $79

Cora Chandelier earrings, on sale for $34.50 down from $69


And finally, Cleo Fringe earrings on sale for $29.40 down from $49

Shop all the pieces here: http://shop.stelladot.com/style/b2c_en_us/shop-1/limited-time-offers.html

Happy Shopping!

stylin' for a steal

Well hello!

Yes, I'm still alive! I haven't drowned in baby drool & spit up just yet!
P.S. if you're contemplating mommyhood, the adventure is worth it. The love I have for Beau is just amazing & indescribable!

So even though I've not been acing the whole "fit" portion of my blog - I've been totally rocking the "fashionable" portion! Holla! (please say that the way Heather would).

I scored some awesome pieces at Nordstrom Rack this weekend - you can now shop them online through the Nordies main site! None of the pieces I purchased are still available online - BUT I did see these & I think they are so darling.

patterned on the front & the back - the back has an exposed zipper
shop it: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/eclair-scarf-print-blouse/3350702?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Grey&resultback=2213&pprd=0
$24.97


DVF blouse
shop it: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/diane-von-furstenberg-khalila-silk-kimono-top/3310666?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=2059


I also had some major scores on Ideeli!
Sequin skirt for a holiday party!
W118 by Walter skirt
Retail tag said $198
I paid $49.99


 And I can not leave out the awesomeness of Stella & Dot steals!!!

The Zoe Report recently featured the Chantilly Lace Cuff as the "parallel universe" item for those of that can not afford (nor bare) to drop $1000 on a Givenchy Lace Cuff.

The Chantilly Lace Cuff was designed off of an actual piece of lace!!! Our designer, Blythe Harris, picked up lace swatches while traveling in Paris & brought them back to the design studio, thus using them to design our entire lace collection.

So in my efforts to really rock this Stella & Dot styling business of mine - I've stumbled across MORE of our fabulous jewelry pieces that are an affordable option to pricier designer pieces out there! Super exciting.

Until then....
xoxo
Your Fashionably not-Fit Femme :)