Fitness and protein go hand in hand.

Let's talk about your workout and protein and discover the how, the where and the why!

Not to too long ago, a close friend said to me that he purchased protein powder to go along with a new workout plan. I thought, "Great!" and didn't really think much more on it, until he began asking questions about when and how often to take it. Well, that got me thinking about the whole connection between protein and working out...

What does it do for you? When do you take it? How much do you take? Is it only for body builders? What is this mysterious relationship between protein and exercise?! I felt like it was time to put on a detective hat and twirl my fake, non-existent mustache.

Protein is an essential nutrient for the human body. Just as amino acids are the "building blocks" of protein, proteins are the "building blocks" of human tissues. We need to consume them in order to maintain normal body functions such as muscle recovery and growth, and maintaining energy.

Ahh! The connection between exercise and protein is becoming a little clearer. But there are so many types of protein sources and forms. We may understand what protein is but how do we use it to compliment our visits to the gym? In David Smith's Ultimate Guide to Protein Supplements, he explores the ins and outs of protein and your workout, as well as taking a closer look at the various sources of protein!

So have a fabulous workout, enjoy your protein accordingly, and don't forget your daily fibre!

Image source: winonaagency.com

Thinking of lacing up for a jog? Make sure you've got the right shoes for you!

I remember when I was getting ready for a big three-day trek from Paris to Chartres, France. The first and best decision I ever made was to purchase the perfct pair of running shoes. I visited a specialty store where an orthodics expert examined my feet, my arch and inspected my walk to match me with the pair that had just the right support. Although the excursion was gruelling, I'm happy to report that I didn't suffer a single blister!

It's true we don't all have the time or feel the need to visit a specialty store, but if you want to make a smart purchase for your regular jogs, check out the infographic below! Keep your feet and you joints healthy with good support! Happy running!

Image source: infographicsonly.com

Avoid injury and get ready to hit the slopes!

Don't let the fear of aches and pains stop you from enjoying a fabulous and fun winter pastime...

In the dark and dreary wet weather of winter, one of the bright spots of the season is the snow-covered slopes of a ski hill! I love to ski and what's better is that skiing is a fun way to get some exercise. What is not fun is having sore muscles and sustaining possible injuries. Alpine sports take more than just some guts and sliding down a mountain.

If you're not a young and sprightly teenager anymore or a part of the particular demographic that can avoid sore muscles from a day on the slopes, you're going to want to do some pre-ski preparations! It's true that skiing is skill based; the more you practice and understand technique, the less likely you will hurt yourself. However, if you haven't been skiing for years, don't worry! You can still take measures to avoid sore, achy muscles!

Tip #1: Stretch

One important measure to take in order to avoid injury would be to stretch. In an interview, Robert Forster, physical therapist to 42 Olympic medallists and founder of Phase IV Scientific Health and Performance Center, said, “Connective tissue shortens with time. We stretch to maintain good alignment of the bones.”

Stretch before you ski to warm up and loosen your muscles for a more relaxed ski. Forster also suggests a stretch after skiing to return muscles to their normal size.

Tip #2: Aerobics

Aerobics is an important part of fitness. If you give yourself a good aerobic base before skiing, you will have stronger muscles and be able to better avoid those pesky injuries.

Tip #3: Ski Lessons

If you're new to skiing, treat yourself to a lesson. It's better to learn the proper techniques and minimize your risk for overworked muscles. If you are propelling and stopping yourself with the wrong motion, you risk tiring sooner and straining your muscles.

For more tips and explanations and even simple "get in ski-shape" plans, read The Vancouver Sun's article, Pre-ski fitness can protect against post-ski problems. Enjoy your winter sports safely this year!

Image Source: Goofy Skiing

Sculpt Your Thighs From Every Angle!

Guess what?! You can workout your inner thighs without even stepping into a gym!

Last week, my temporary one month pass to the gym expired. In all that one month, I went to the gym once for a Zumba class. Clearly, the salesman who tried to entice me to sign up for a gym membership at the end of my trial month had no idea who he was dealing with. I take my poor attendance as a sign: I am not meant to be a gym mouse!

I would much rather exercise at home or do fun activities such as a dancing and sports! But sometimes, the weather or schedules get in the way of that and I just need a workout. That's when I look for things I can do at home.

Even though summer is gone and there's no need for shorts, keep your legs toned and rock your skinny jeans ladies! Shape Magazine has shared their Top 10 NEW Exercises for Thinner Thighs

Keep fit everyone! I'm looking forward to trying these exercises out tonight in the comfort of my home!

Image source: Shape Magazine

Train Like an Angel!

It's not all fluff and poses for the Victoria's Secret models. They work to be runway ready!

Whether you are interested in fashion or not, you have undoubtedly seen many many times, images and ads of terrifyingly thin models and photoshopped movie stars floating around. Almost everywhere we look now, there they are: skinny girls and doctored photographs setting an impossibly high and unhealthy standard for body image.

Here's a different image of a model:

It is refreshing to see a company and it's models promote a healthier lifestyle and share their workouts. Yes, these women still seem incredibly small but at least we know they actually work for their figures. Aside from the videos they share, here's another tid bit to consider: many of the wings they wear on the runway are actually quite heavy! These models have put up to 50 pounds of extra weight on their backs while still keeping their walk tall and stilettos firmly on the ground!

In preparation for this year's show, they've started sharing new videos and tips from celebrity trainer, Justin Gelband, to help viewers and fans "Train Like an Angel!"

Don't get jealous; get fit! Until tomorrow PGX'ers...

Image source: Hello Daily News