Strong bodies: fitness & health

This blog will cover all city and statewide bodybuilding competitions and the out-of-state guest posers. Weight-loss success stories from local people, features/bios on bodybuilding, fitness and figure competitors, coverage of fad diets. Nutritious recipes and reviews on local gyms and health food stores. I would also like to cover Adult/Childhood Obesity in America and specifically,Alaska. Weight-lifting techniques/safety as well as the benefits for women. This is just a general idea, as the blog will be constantly evolving.


Stephanie Figarelle

I competed in my first bodybuilding competition as a senior at East High in 2000 and after winning the overall title, bodybuilding and fitness became my passion. I've been a NASM certified personal trainer since 2004 and I love helping people achieve their goals with fitness and proper nutrition. My overall bodybuilding titles include: Ms. Anchorage 2006 and The Anchorage Crystal Cup 2007. I have lived in Anchorage since 1988.

Beat the late night sugar cravings - 11/23/2008 9:01 pm

The Back: Out of sight, Out of mind. - 11/23/2008 5:24 pm

Maximize Fat Loss by following the Glycemic Index - 11/23/2008 2:50 pm

What are you reading? - 11/13/2008 3:59 pm

Prioritzing weak muscles for a balanced body. - 11/7/2008 3:00 pm

Vinegar's for Sickos - 10/29/2008 8:02 pm

Do you even like working out? - 10/29/2008 4:28 pm

NPC Natural Crystal Cup - 10/24/2008 4:54 pm

Training Antagonistic Muscle Groups - 10/24/2008 4:47 pm

The Post-Workout Meal - 10/24/2008 2:52 pm

Music for your muscles - 10/15/2008 5:12 pm

Condition your body for the slopes - 10/14/2008 3:33 pm

Stretch your calves! - 10/7/2008 9:14 pm

Lose fat NOT muscle - 10/2/2008 5:47 pm

Have you checked your flexibility lately? - 10/2/2008 5:02 pm

October 4th 20th Annual Pro-Am Bodybuilding, Fitness and Figure Competition! - 9/29/2008 3:22 pm

Getting to know a local Figure competitor. - 9/17/2008 5:01 pm

Need some help? - 9/10/2008 4:47 pm

Why I bought a heart rate monitor and you should too... - 9/10/2008 4:26 pm

Jagged little pills - 9/10/2008 3:58 pm

The healthy glow in a bottle - 9/9/2008 12:47 pm

Setting goals to maintain the new you! - 9/5/2008 11:16 am

Why most people will never see their abs....

It's simple really....getting body fat levels low enough to see them is PAINFUL. Building muscle and losing body fat means making sacrifices most people wouldn't dream of making. Real change means taking yourself out of your comfort zone and experiencing temporary discomfort in what I call an "adjustment period." The adjustment period is a short amount of time where your body strives to adjust to lower calories and more physical activity.

The only way to 6 pack abs is discipline and sacrifice!The only way to 6 pack abs is discipline and sacrifice!

Most people can't get through this period of discomfort which is why they end up quitting and begin making excuses. I refuse to lie about exercise and the pain that accompanies lifestyle changes. Change is hard. It feels weird and alien to human beings because we do everything within our power to maintain balance and serenity, as does our bodies.

The best part about making sacrifices is that each time you are faced with the decision of discipline and you choose to stay true to yourself by not skipping a workout, cutting back on alcohol consumption or choosing to make a healthy dinner at home rather than eating out- you are that much closer to seeing your abs.

Choosing to lose weight is a huge commitment to yourself and maybe your significant other or kids, but first and foremost you are the one in control of your actions- therefore the decision should be followed until finished. Don't make excuses. If something sounds too good to be true, it is- don't buy into it.

Infomercial gimmicks will only drain your bank account and stifle your fitness efforts, you don't need them. Surround yourself with positive people who support you, read to keep yourself educated and find yourself a personal trainer who challenges and encourages you. Set your standards high and take care of your mind and body, afterall you only get one and life is short.