Is It Really A Man's World?

A few weeks ago Frank Addelia, from frankieslab.com had me go up to his "Lab" to do some filming for his ring DVD that he will be releasing in the next few months.  He took some footage and some photos of me while I was having fun with some kettlebells.  Really had no idea what he was doing and just did my thing as always! This morning I woke up to find this little video compilation of me doing just that on my Facebook page in an artistic sort of way.  Not use to having such focus on myself in this kind of setting, but nevertheless, here's his work.  I think he's definitely an artist and really enjoyed working with him.  Just wait until you see our funny stuff that we did together!!

His words were "Fitspiration - Beauty and Strength - Lauren Brooks RKC Leader"

  Is It Really A Man's World?

Primal Move and Krav Maga Workshop

For the first time ever, James Breese RKC and Lauren Brooks RKC Team Leader are teaming up together in San Diego to present a very unique Primal Move and Krav Maga Workshop. This workshop will give you an ADVANCED INSIGHT into the brand new Primal Move system created by Master RKC Peter Lakatos and will give you the skills that you need to DEFEND YOURSELF - WHEN IT MATTERS MOST!  It will be very basic fun extremely FUN!!!! If you are ready to have some fun that you can integrate in to your TRAINING and REAL life experiences then reserve your spot now!

You will not want to miss this combination workshop!

Here's a bit about James Breese, who I've had the privilege of learning from while I was in London.  James is the real deal!  He has actually had to use his fighting skills in real life and death situations and has succeeded greatly.  His teaching skills are consistent, friendly, spot on, and just down right get you results!  It's an honor to assist this amazing system and combination you are about to learn. 

James Breese, RKC. UK Director for Dragon Door, UK National Instructor and Director for Primal Move, and Krav Maga Instructor.  James will be holding Primal Move instructor courses and certifying people now!

James Breese is the UK Director of Operations for Dragon Door and Primal Move. He was invited by Master RKC Peter Lakatos to join the international Primal Move team after working extensively with him promoting the RKC in the UK and was one of the very first people to have completed the Primal Move National Instructors course in February 2012.

A serving Riot Police Officer in the Metropolitan Police Service in the notorious region of Brixton, Central London, James understands the importance of a holistic approach to fitness - he trains a diverse spectrum of people: Including pensioners, athletes of all levels, executives, beginners and serving specialist firearms and riot officers. James helps achieve their unique fitness goals using RKC training principles and allows them to perform to the best of their ability, when it matters most! 

Following a near death experience after graduating from the Police Academy James discovered Krav Maga and began training under Expert Level 2 Instructors Joe Ambrosino and Jon Bullock for 5 years before completing the 30 day Krav Maga Instructors course. Having trained in Krav Maga for over 7 years, James is extremely passionate about this particular system of self defense and loves teaching others the same methods that have helped save his life � several times over � and would love to share his experiences with you!

What is Primal Move?

Primal Move is an integrated movement system, where the goal is to create better movement, based on the primal and primitive movements once we all had mastered when we were children. Do you remember when you had no pain when you played, ran, played football, threw a stone or climbed a three? Do you remember, when movement was joyful, fun and you felt the flow?

Primal Move�s goal is to make changes through playful, beautiful and mindful movements. Through better movement you will be able to enjoy whatever you like doing in life. We want to show you the potential we all have in us buried deep down. 

In Primal Move we integrate three major philosophy of physical education:

- Flow concept from Professor Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

- Dr. Istvan Balyi's model about the effects of early specialization in sport.

- Functional Movement System created by Lee Burton and Gray Cook.

Our goal is to move better through the unique mixture of unloaded and loaded mobility exercises, strength and endurance practice, while aiming to better movement at all time.

Moving more is not better. Moving stronger is not better. Moving faster is not better. Moving better is better, and we aim to move stronger, more and faster when we have already mastered better.  If you want to see a bit more about Primal Move visit here

Is this workshop for you? Here are some of the things you will get out of it.

• Be one of the FIRST to experience Primal Move before it takes over America!

• Discover what it takes to kick another guy/girls ass!!!

• Anyone who wants to learn how to speed up recovery time and re-discover lost movement patterns. 

• Anyone who has ever had an injury, surgery, or imbalance that wants to move better to prevent injuries, increase sports performance, and achieve results quicker than ever before.

• Discover the brutal secrets to defending yourself against chokes, grabs and bear hugs

• Discover the Metropolitan Police Tactics that Turn your attacker into a cowering wreck without even touching them

• The Secret to defending yourself and loved ones against knife threats in less than 60 seconds

If you answered yes to any of these questions then this workshop is for you!

WHEN:  JULY 1st 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (If enough people request for Sunday it could be subject to change)

WHERE  Gracie Jui Jitsu Academy in Solana Beach

COST:       Price  $149

 Reserve your spot for this amazing fun workshop right here

Introduction Class for Kettlebell Beginners

Ready to Learn Kettlebells with other Beginners in a private setting?

Come join us for a fun Introduction to Kettlebell Training.    

When: Saturday June 2nd 

Time: 10:00a.m - 12:00 p.m.

Where - Encinitas (North San Diego, California) (Address sent 1 week prior to workshop) 

Price  - $59 (All my workshops are at least $129 per person, but we are doing an incredible special right now for beginners only.)

Ready to see what the rage is all about?

Now's the perfect opportunity 

We are proudly opening up a private 2 hour kettlebell workshop that will allow no more than 10 people!  These spots will be open to beginning students that want to learn how to use kettlebells properly along with other smart training to become stronger, leaner, conditioned, flexible, energetic and of course fat loss.  Smart training will include body weight, proper movement patterns, battling ropes, Suspension Training, and tons of appropriate fun progressions to help you on your way to optimal strength, fitness, healthy, lean body, and energy. This workshop will help jump start your journey with a great group starting in the  same place as you.  Together we will motivate, encourage and most of all educate and guide you.  Once you complete the workshop, and we fill you are ready, you will have the opportunity to jump in to any of our group classes or continue on your own safely.

Why KETTLEBELLS?

The testimonials and clients speak for itself.  Look through all the testimonials on my site and inspiration from my blog.  The results show and they show quickly.  When you commit and you are consistent it lasts.  I have had these incredible people coming to me for YEARS!  They just get better every year.  Amazing how one can actually look younger as the years go by.

Small group more private instruction - We are only accepting a small group.  Because it will be hands on and very intimate we only want people who are ready to learn and have an open mind.

Do I need to have any experience with kettlebells or training?

Absolutely not!  That is exactly why we are holding this beginning workshop. We want beginners like you and will take you through a specialized program easing you in to this type of training.  If you are a great athlete you will still benefit tremendously.  We work with all levels of fitness.  You will get incredible workouts throughout, but we want you to leave feeling fresh and ready for more.  This is a lifestyle change, not a quick fix, however the results will happen very rapidly as you continue you journey in to smart training!

What do I do once the  session is over?

Once you have completed your session and we feel you are ready, you will then "graduate" to our all level classes that are currently offered.    We will also be opening new times as well once mid summer rolls around.  If those classes don't work we can recommend other instructors as well that will fit with your schedule. You can also take what you have learned and apply it to a program on your own if that works best for your lifestyle.  We understand classes aren't for everyone and many people enjoy working out in the comfort of their own home.  Benefits of classes do outweigh home workouts due to the accountability, the friendships and motivation made within the group, and of course hands on instruction to insure your safety at all times.  

Where is this located? 

All sessions will take place at a private residential outdoor covered beautiful gym where everything will be provided.  This is in the Encinitas area, North San Diego County (right by Flora Vista Elementary school).  All you need to do is just show up!  Once you have reserved your spot you will get all the details on exact location.

How do I sign up and reserve my spot? 

You can sign up right here below

If you have any questions, requests, or concerns please email Lauren  

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.  The results from our clients have been nothing short of phenomenal and outstanding.

Come by to one of our classes and ask them and see for yourself.  The proof is in the pudding and we are very proud of our students.  They all started the same place as you!

Review from the One and Only Mike Mahler

This review just came in from Mike Mahler, one of the first well known kettlebell instructors in America.  Very honored to receive this from Mike.  

REVIEW for "Kettlebells For Women: Workouts For Your Strong, Sculpted & Sexy Body"

"Highly respected kettlebell instructor and fitness expert Lauren Brooks' book "Kettlebells For Women" is a fantastic introduction to the immense benefits of effective kettlebell training. While the target audience of this book is women, Lauren understands fully that serious women should train hard just like serious men. You don't get a great body like Lauren, by messing around with ineffective exercises and light weights. 

The book details which kettlebell exercises you should focus on, optimal technique for physique composition goals, and also lays out several effective programs to get you started. In addition, Lauren, is also a nutrition expert and does a great job cutting through all the nutrition hype out there and revealing a simple yet very effective strategy for both meat eaters and vegetarians. Fat loss is at least 70% diet so no book on fitness would be complete without useful nutrition info. 

Lauren is a great role model and is a product of the system she espouses to others. This is a must as you should never listen to a trainer that can't follow his or her own advice! Pick up Lauren's book today, follow her advice to the letter, and get ready to transform your health."

--Mike Mahler, author of "Live Life Aggressively! What Self-Help Gurus Should Be Telling You" 

Kettlebells for Women Book GIVEAWAY and Whey Protein

This weeks giveaway is Premier Research Labs 100% Pesticide Free Whey Protein PLUS my new book Kettlebells For Women: Workouts For Your Strong, Sculpted & Sexy Body.  Which many men are using and getting results as well!

Rules: You will earn one entry in to the drawing for doing each of the following below.  The more you earn the higher chances you have to win.  Make sure when leaving a comment you leave your name and which options you chose to participate in so we can track and give you the appropriate entries.  Winners will be chosen at random by picking numbers using random selection tool.  It is possible a winner can end up winning more than once.  In the case of that happening we will need to redraw for that spot.  We will have ONE winner for this since it's only a 7 day contest.  The more entries (numbers you earn) the higher chance of winning since you can be given up to 6 numbers to go in the drawing!  

Here's how to earn multiple chances of winning.  

1. Like my FB Page here  (earn 1)

2. Follow me on Twitter   (earn 1)

3. Follow this blog (on the left hand side)   (earn 1)

4. Share this page              (earn 1)

5. Leave a comment below with your name and why you want to win.  If you write something really cool or inspiring you will get a bonus entry giving you a total of 6 chances!    (earn up to 2)

Good Luck!  This contest will end on May 9th.  Winners will be announced on this blog.  If I don't have your email address make sure you tune in on May 10th to see the winner.  Perfect before Mothers Day!  Let's have some fun!

Fem PMS and Fem Balance Giveaway for Ladies

And the WINNERS ARE

Sharon Shiner said...

Please enter me into the giveaway..I responded to you when you originally asked about PMS etc...unfortunately I am greatly affected by PMS w.sometimes severe back pain that makes it hard to train (let alone move!!!).....
thanks Lauren!
Sharon Shiner

Michelle said...

Could really use being the winner of this one! These workouts are a lifesaver for me....since my late husband's illness and death, I lost the ability to work out after my 13 hours shifts at the hospital....or maybe its just age finally! But the Lauren DVDs pack in just enough to get the heart rate up, tax the muscles a little and do it so quickly, that at least I've done SOMETHING besides hit the wine and crackers! Keeps my weight down and keeps me going! Love your work! Blessings, Michelle

PLEASE email On The Edge Fitness Customer Service to redeem your Fem Balance Products and iVersion Choice.  Congratulations!  Please keep us posted to see how you are doing.  

Several months back I conducted an informal survey on menstrual cycle and training over at the On The Edge Fitness Facebook page.  More than half commented that they were greatly effected with their strength and conditioning training, 1-2 weeks before their period and many during.  Most of it has to do with major swings in hormone levels, deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, and painful periods.  Many females suffer from depression, crying spells, weight gain, water retention, and severe headaches just to name a few.  No wonder your training is greatly effected! For this very reason I am offering a giveaway for an awesome and completely natural product, FEM PMS, from one of my favorite and respected companies Premier Research Labs.  This also will go hand in hand with FEM BALANCE that I will also be giving away as well.

In order to naturally prevent PMS you must take the precautions such as avoid salty foods, caffeine, alcohol, processed sugars, and hydrogenated oils.  Most PMS balance supplements contain lots of single ingredients such a cramp bark and red raspberry.  The single ingredients don't really address the problem. That is why I like this product.  It has an array of high quality natural ingredients that will help tackle most of the common problems.  Rules on giveaway will be posted below.

Here are the ingredients for the Fem PMS

European Red Raspberry Leaf

• Rich in fragarine (uterine tonic), tannins and polypeptides
• Supports and tonifies the uterus
• Provides support during pregnancy, helping to prepare the body for childbirth
• Helps ease nausea

Central American Opuntia Cactus

• Rich in natural vitamin C, bioflavonoids and 17 essential amino acids
• Supports healthy respiratory, glandular and circulatory systems
• Supports healthy nervous system function and mood regulation
• Naturally high in fiber which helps curb appetite
• Supports healthy endocrine and immune function
• Promotes healthy urine flow and helps neutralize toxins and internal waste

Cramp Bark

• Used anciently by Native Americans for swelling
• Supports natural muscle relaxation, especially the uterus
• Supports the natural muscle tone of the uterus
• Promotes a calm, healthy nervous system

Atlantic Kelp

• Rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, iodine, trace minerals, natural vitamins and amino acids
• Supports healthy thyroid function and metabolism

South American Bladderwrack

• Supports healthy thyroid function and metabolism
• Supports the body's natural histamine response

Indian Noni Fruit, Seeds

• Contains natural compounds which promote healthy, cramp-free menstruation
• Contains scopoletin, a natural compound which helps promote calm mood and sense of well being
• Supports menstrual cycle regulation
• Supports the body's natural histamine processes
• Promotes healthy lactation in mothers who are breastfeeding

Indian Turmeric Root

• One of the most versatile antioxidants with unparalleled DNA repair
• Contains natural compounds which support the body's natural histamine processes

Here is how you can easily win these products.  There will be 2 winners!

Leave a comment on this blog to be considered.  The winners will be announced next Tuesday over on my On The Edge Fitness Fan Page.  You must be apart of the community in order to win.  All you have to do is like this page.  I will also announce it on my blog for a day, but then take it down since I have lots of blog posts coming up!!   I will also throw in a downloadable (iPhone, iPad, iPod touch) DVD of choice.

If you prefer not to take a chance Fem Balance and Fem PMS will be on sale for a few days, which you can find under the Nutrition store.  If you know a friend or family member that could greatly benefit, please share this.

My Time in London

Ben and Lyla in front of Big Ben

London is a very meaningful place to me.   My father grew up there and shared many stories of his childhood, his up bringing, and always ended in how proud he is of his British heritage.   I've always admired my dad for his simplicity with life, along with his hard work and determination.  Here is a man who grew up in a bedroom the size of most people's closets, was completely content with it, since that is all he felt he needed.  In order to help get him through college he was a London cab driver.  He came to the states when he was in his 30's leaving his entire family and everything he ever knew in his life to be with my mother.  Upon moving to America he studied in Southern California in order to pass the bar exam.  He took many odd jobs throughout process to contribute to the household.  Growing up listening to his English accent all my life was always fun.  As the English would say, I was a "cheeky" little girl and always "took the piss" out of him.  Needless to say, I find the English humor incredibly funny and when I go back to London I'm constantly laughing and happy.  Just riding the tube is an adventure and comical.  Listening to the thick English accent when they say  "Mind the Gap" and "This train terminates at CockFosters" never gets old.  ( I know I'm revealing my immature humor) Of course the serious side of seeing the culture, amazing sights, the kind people, and the deep history of London is incredible.

Photo courtesy of James Breese after a Primal Move session, by Regents Park.  This photo had to be taken.  For those who don't understand why I found this hilarious, Google it!  

My 89 year old grandparents live in London and I've always had a very strong connection with them, especially my grandmother.  I've always admired how independent they are.  They have been retired for years and live in a very quant humble house in Hampstead.  Every day from morning to night they don't stop moving.  They have a list of all their own daily chores.  My grandparents are very old fashioned and simple people.  They don't have a dishwasher or even a dryer for their clothing.  They hand wash every single dish, hang their clothes dry, iron, sew, cook all their own food.  Laziness is just not an option and this is very typical with much of the older generation I observed when I visit.  The older generation is out and about, doing their own shopping, riding the bus, and seems to be much more independent and healthier than the Americans.  It shows how easy we have it here in America.  Most of us have cars and have become technologically savvy to the point that it gives us the opportunity to not have to do as much for ourselves.  Overall Americans have a cushier life.  I have probably been to London about a handful of times throughout my life.  After all, it's not the closest place when living in Southern California to travel to.   When I go to London there is a part of me that feels as if I'm home.

English Phone Box.  A shame that their aren't many left, due to everyone having their own mobile phone.

This trip was much different and very special to me.  My grandmother has been very sick, in and out of the hospital, because of the horrible side effects she had been experiencing from her chemo treatments.  I knew how important it would be for my kids to get to spend some time with their great grandparents.  Parents know very well that flying half way across the world with 2 young children is a brave feat.  Nevertheless, the importance of the trip out weighed the exhaustion ahead, and we booked it.  I was pleasantly surprised at how much better the traveling went than I expected.  I would say, bringing the kids on my own without Ben, would have made for a whole other experience, that may have not been so smooth.  I strongly suggest one parent per child under 5 if possible, when traveling across the world on 11 hour flights to another country!  

 

Waiting in line with Chloe on my back for the London eye. (Was a super cold day)

Public outdoor Gym, Chloe enjoying herself

We stumbled across this awesome outdoor little gym.  The kids had a blast playing on all the equipment.

Lyla was better at this than all the adults who attempted it.  She kept saying "Mommy look at me, I'm exercising! This makes me healthy, give me so much energy and is fun!"

Cuddling on the streets in London

Looking out over the entire London, from the awesome London Eye

Being sassy and tired, playing with the iPad

Over the years I've had a number people in the UK, ask if I will ever come over and do a workshop.  I promised I'd make it over, just wasn't sure when.  Having 2 kids close together and nursing both children, I chose not to do much traveling during that time.  Last year James Breese, owner of Kettlebell Fever and official UK Dragon Door Kettlebell Distributor, contacted me to carry all my DVD's.  We then had a few moments to meet up in San Diego, while I was meeting with RKC Team Leader Andrew Read about strength training.  I told James I was going to London to visit family and wanted to do a workshop.  James quickly took the wheel and made it happen!  To both of our surprise this first workshop in England had no problem filling up.  James wanted to add some Primal Move to the workshop and immediately after seeing the video of Peter Lakatos, I was sold.  I actually couldn't wait to learn it for selfish reasons!  

First Ladies London Kettlebell and Movement Workshop

Attila Varga, Me, and James Breese

While I was in London, James took time out of his morning to show me some of the Primal Move system, at beautiful Regents Park.  I must say I'm very impressed and look forward to seeing more of it.  James is a fantastic teacher in all accounts from his Primal Move to kettlebell training, he is top notch!  He is a Krav Maga instructor and has actually had to use his skill many times while he was a London police officer.  Very impressive stories to say the least!  I had never worked with him before, but fortunately my intuition about people are usually spot on.  I'm glad I was right!  The workshop took place at one of the best BJJ academies in London at Carlson Gracie.  I was very honored to have, Atilla Varga, RKC and BJJ coach, to be there assisting at the workshop.

For the short time we had, the students made incredible transformations in their progress.  We had every level from the complete beginner to the advanced lifter.  Below is one of the letters I received after the workshop that makes me proud to share.  This kind of feedback is what keeps the workshops alive!

Dreams DO come true!
I've dreamed of taking a class with Lauren Brooks since I first discovered her DVD workouts about 2 years ago. I live in the UK whilst Lauren lives in the US so I thought my dream would remain just that. Well sometimes dreams do come true as I had the opportunity to take a workshop with Lauren on her recent trip to London and what an experience it was! I was very nervous before attending thinking it would be filled with super fit, amazingly honed athletes and I would be left standing in their dust. Not so. There was a great cross section of kettlebellers from out of shape beginners to some RKC's and Lauren taught us all with huge encouragement, intuition and passion. Lauren's love for what she does is evident in every move and sentence. Lauren is warm, encouraging and totally non-intimidating. Her form tips are excellent. For instance in order to stop some manic swings that were being performed she told us all to think "float" at the top of the swing and it worked like a charm - no more bionic swinging! She wants everybody to progress, safely, to be their best selves and to have fun with their kettlbell practice and not view it as a chore.

If you ever get the chance to work with Lauren, please, please take it. I gained so much from my workshop experience - vastly improved form from when I walked in (even the RKC's participating in the workshop had some tweaks made to their form) and increased confidence that I was actually on the right path and pretty darn good at some moves (swings).

If ever Lauren comes to the UK again for a workshop she can count on at least one class member for sure - me!

Thank you Lauren for everything.
Charmaine, UK

   

In closing, I plan on making my way back to London.  Most likely a quick visit solo since it is hard to drag the chidden along.  I look forward to my future adventures on the other side.  Next time I hope to visit Ireland, Scotland, France and Spain if at all possible!