Healthy Dessert Option: Brownies

We hope you have all had a wonderful weekend and did what made YOU happy. Hopefully you were able to make time for yourself to squeeze in a great workout, a therapeutic run, or maybe a walk with your pooch... no matter what we hope you got up and got out there! 

A new week is about to begin but that doesn't mean you have to get the "Monday Blues", we have been working on a fun, new recipe; And it's all about DESSERT... YUM.  Brownies are definitely an indulgent dessert and while we aren't saying you should eat the whole pan of these, we are saying we tweaked them to make them just as satisfying but a little more slim. 

We All Have One of Those Days...

Where you just feel like a busted can of biscuits. If you follow us on Instagram (@abiteoffitness) you would have seen our post yesterday...

Well yesterday was just one of those days. We've all been there: we don't want to work out, junk food sounds great, and you just feel BLAH. It's important to remember that days like this happen! It's okay to have a day where you aren't as motivated and you just need a breather! It helps stay on track when you allow yourself an extra day off here and there. We need to remember most days are great days! You constantly make healthy decisions and for every healthy decision that's made a day, you WIN. Yes, you do, because you made that conscious decision to be the best version of yourself! 

Healthy Dinner Option: "Not Your Average" Gumbo

OMG... we have the perfect comfort food recipe for you without the added "comfort" if you know what we mean ;)

During the colder nights, I think we all want to snuggle up with a blanket by the fireplace and eat something warm and filling.  However, filling doesn't have to mean fattening and it doesn't have to mean lack of flavor.  To me, during the cold nights, a pot of gumbo always sounds so yummy with the rice and the warming stew.  Growing up in the south, this girl loves her some good southern food... that's for sure. 

When making this gumbo recipe I wanted to make sure it was full of flavor but as healthy as possible.  The addition of sweet potatoes may seem strange, but it gives it a sweet twist that is just a delight! 

I know you're gonna love it!   

Snack Time: My Favorite Trail Mix

I love snacking-be honest, who doesn't?! But all day snacking can lead to unhealthy pitfalls. Packing small bites to take with you throughout the day can help maintain weight, keep you satisfied, and will help you stick to your overall diet. It can be hard to pass up the treats that your coworkers or classmates constantly bring in day after day-remember, it's important to treat yourself, but it's the key is moderation! That's why I like to pack healthful snacks that keep me full between meals. One my favorite snacks to make is Healthy Trail Mixes! They are super versatile, easy to throw together, and perfect to take on the go. Check out some of my favorite Trail Mix recipes and how easy and customizable they are!

Ab Workout

Okay, I'll admit it... I'm slightly obsessed with getting a six pack.  

They always say "summer bodies are made in the winter" and this summer I want to be ready to put on that bikini as soon as I can.  There is no worse feeling then when summer gets here and you put on your bathing suit and feel disgusting.  In my opinion, focusing on a nice stomach is one way to feel a little more confident! 

I'm going to share with you some of my favorite ab exercises that I do at least once a week.  I did not come up with these workouts... these are simply exercises I found from other personal trainers, workout dvds, online, and from other people.  I feel when you combine what works for you that is when real progress shows.

Try my recommendation for a 10-minute ab workout! 

Let us know if you tried the workout and what you thought! 

Workin' the abs, 
Jackie & Lindsay
XOXO