I started out this morning teaching a Cardio Intervals group fitness class.

When it comes to creating a group fitness routine, at first, it can seem a bit overwhelming because there are literally endless possibilities of what the class can do.  I find that things work best when I keep the routine simple but effective and think about what I like to achieve while I am in a group fitness class.

What I look for in a group fitness class:

• An all-inclusive workout, I don’t want to feel that I barely broke a sweat and I need to hop on the elliptical or lift weights after the class…Believe me, I have been there.
• Fun and motivating atmosphere.  I like to truly feel like a team when I am in a group fitness class, and that we are all working together to complete the same challenge.
• Guidance, if I am not sure of a move, if I feel a different muscle working than the one that is described to me, or if I have a question I want to feel comfortable asking my instructor a question.

Today’s workout really challenged the participants.  They were sweating by the second round, but we were all able to power through and finish the workout together.  What a great way to start the morning 🙂

Breakfast

While driving home, I decided that I really wanted something cold and creamy…kind of like a frappuccino. But instead of pulling into the nearest coffee chop and paying a million dollars for it, I got creative in the kitchen and made a homemade healthier version.

A couple of years ago, Starbucks had a coconut mocha frappuccino.  I think it was probably my favorite, but of course it was a limited time only flavor…luckily I figured out how to make it myself!

Healthified Coconut Mocha “Frappe” Swap

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup cooled coffee
• 1/4 unsweetened almond coconut Almond Breeze
• 1 tsp raw cacao powder
• 1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder
• 1 packet of stevia
• 1/3 frozen banana
• 4 ice cubes
• water until it is the desired consistency (you may not need to add any!)
• 1 Tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in the blender and blend away!  Enjoy  in a cup or a bowl 🙂

Nutrition:

Calories:  159.9  Fat:  5.9g  Carbs:  12.8g  Protein:  16.5g

I thought that it had the perfect amount of coconutty flavor, and the actual shredded pieces of coconut gave it a nice texture.  I will definitely be making this treat again.

I enjoyed my “frappe” along side some egg whites and salsa.

I hope you all have an amazing and productive Thursday!

Of Possible Interest:

• Common Mistakes When Eating Healthy Food fitsugar.com
• Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares How Sweet Eats <—-These seriously look addicting, and I don’t even like marshmallow!