Shake That Batuka *Dance*

If you're looking for a good read and some fun pics go check out FitSugar's Fittest Female Celebs of 2011.

And if you're looking for new ways to mix up your workout routine in 2012 check out THIS new 'Dance Craze'

BATUKA DANCE

I was lucky last year to receive some private Zumba instructions at the BF's Aunt's house before heading to one of the first Zumba studios in Miami for a workout. 

What I learned?

All my previous Jazz and Hip Hop dance training allowed me to catch on to the basic movements really quickly - however, it did not allow me to suddenly channel my inner Adriana Lima and shake my hips with a sexy Latin Flare.  I got a great workout and had tons of fun, but looked as if I was cheering on High School Football for the most part. 

Overall I wouldn't use it as my only form of exercise, but trying out new dance classes every once in a while is a super fun way to mix things up!!  That Batuka Dance looks crazy, but hey, I could see how much fun you could have in a class like that!

Sadly, I can't find any classes listed near me yet -- but will be keeping my eyes open!

Speaking of new workouts to try... I've been dying to take a Booty Barre class, anyone taken a class?  And advicve or tips??

Now that's Bananas... Addicted to Your Workouts?

When I was younger I absolutely hated bananas.

Really, up until this past year.  I used to eat them occasionally because I was told they calmed nerves before a big test or performance, but I never really enjoyed them by themselves. 

I could eat a PB & Banana sandwich, or a Strawberry Banana shake... but plain banana made me sick.

Now I have bananas all the time!

There are so many uses for them!! Adding them to your Protein Shake to make it uuuber creamy,

or even using them to make the most delicious pancakes!

Recipe completely inspired by Julie @ PB Fingers

Banana Bread Protein Pancakes

Serves one

Ingredients:

1/2 cup old fashioned oats

1/2 banana, mashed

1/4 cup cottage cheese I didn't have cottage cheese so I used 5oz honey greek yogurt

1 egg  I substituted egg white beaters for the egg

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

I've made protein pancakes before but I think the biggest difference this time was that Julie's directions said to "Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and blend with an immersion blender until batter is relatively smooth and all ingredients are fully mixed"

Blending up the oats with all the ingredients made for a much friendlier batter!!!

This Photo - Compliments of PB Fingers

 These were my favorite pancakes to date -- and Mike agreed!  Just topped with some Sugar Free Syrup and berries on the side!!!

The recipe makes about 3 pancakes, which is a perfect sized breakfast and keeps you fueled through an intense weekend workout. 

*Inspired* - Fitness Must Haves {omg I love way too many things}

This post was inspired by a Get Fit for 2011 Challenge posted by FitSugar {a very addicting site!}.

As I've continued on my journey of becoming even more active and living a healthier lifestyle I've picked up some new gear on the way and here are some of my favorites:

K-Swiss Tubes (Running Shoes)

I had never owned anything K-Swiss prior to these, but am a *huge* fan of Jillian Michaels and decided to try them out.  I found them in a Famous Footwear, put them on, and ran up and down the aisles countless times to make sure the shoes were legit.  I'm not sure if it is the tube technology, or just in my head, but I really do feel as if I'm springing forward slightly when I wear them.  I think they're great for cross training, squats, lunges, and short runs

My other athletic shoes are the Mizuno Wave Rider 14's
 

(Found in a post by a fellow FitSugar Reader) I saw them on sale at Nordstroms and loved the color (black & lavender) because darker sneakers don’t get dirty as quickly when you’re running outside! Okay… they get dirty just as quickly but they don’t show it
 

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