MEET LEAH WELLS: PFP’S Newest Trainer
I’m Leah - NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Group Personal Training Specialist. I’ve been a one-on-one and small group coach for two years, working with a wide range of clients at different ability levels. I have coached over 1,500 hours in those few years and learned and improved with each hour.
OLYMPIC WEIGHTLIFTING IS FOR EVERYONE: Why You Should Give it a Try
There is a common misconception that Olympic-style weightlifting is reserved for more advanced athletes. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Weightlifting is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and levels of abilities.
SHEPHERD’S PIE
I use this recipe every year to use up those leftover mashed potatoes. Great for after Thanksgiving or any holiday celebration.
TIPS FOR FEELING HAPPIER THIS WINTER
As the winter months roll in and the daylight becomes shorter, we are all searching for the best ways to feel happy and content in a season known for more darkness. Winter brings both challenges and opportunities, and this blog will guide you to embrace a winter of well-being and understand the keys to finding joy during these colder months using positive psychology research findings.
TURKEY CORN SOUP: What to do with Those Thanksgiving Leftovers
Ever wonder what to do with your leftover turkey? My family found this recipe in our local newspaper when I was a kid, and we’ve made it every year since. I have no idea who the source is, but it makes for a great use of any leftover turkey and pan drippings (if you save those).
EATING LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT
The best way to make the most of your time in the gym is by building healthy habits outside of the gym. A daily or weekly plan is one of the best habits you can establish to look and feel your best. Plan your workouts, what you will cook, and what you will eat. When you dedicate some time to plan out your week or the next few days, building those healthy habits comes seamlessly.
QUICK & EASY INDIAN PORK CURRY WITH COCONUT SAUCE (from Savvy Bites)
Looking for a quick and easy Indian-style pork curry recipe? Look no further! This 30-minute recipe from Savvy Bitea is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend curry night.
HOW DOES VOTING IMPACT MY HEALTH?
It’s not new knowledge that the government is responsible for procedures regarding both population and individual health laws and policies. Not only does your vote matter, but it can greatly impact how issues revolving around your health are dealt with depending on which candidates are elected and what priorities they hold within their agendas.
MY MOM’S HALUPKI: (AKA. Stuffed Cabbage)
My mom used to make stuffed cabbage on Sundays after church. We called it “pigs in a blanket” or by its Slovak name, Halupki. If you are of Eastern European descendant in Pittsburgh, you’ve probably had some version of this recipe. This recipe takes time but is worth the labor. Enjoy!
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MEDITATION
As fitness professionals, we talk a lot about aspects of physical health and fitness, but mental and emotional health are also important for our wellbeing. In fact, regular mindfulness practice has been linked to improved physical health as well as mental. In today's fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and clarity can be challenging. Enter meditation and mindfulness, powerful practices that have numerous mental, emotional, and physical benefits.
MEET BLAKE BERNSTEIN: PFP’S Newest Trainer & Massage Therapist
Meet Blake! Blake is our newest trainer and licensed massage therapist. Working in both fields, he understands the importance of balance. Being your healthiest means working out hard and making the time to recover properly!
ART’S CHUNKY GUACAMOLE
My husband is Mexican, and this recipe is a family favorite. Use it with chips at a party or on your tacos!
CROSS-TRAINING 101
Cross-training refers to the combination of two types of training. This style of training is commonly done by athletes and recreationally active individuals. The benefit of this training style is you get the added adaptations of both training styles you engage in.
TRAINER NIK’S FAVORITE “COFF-TEIN” SMOOTHIE
This was my go-to mid-morning pick-me-up when I worked a desk job since I would typically fast until I got most of my work done. I find it a lot easier to get stuff done on an empty stomach (and I think most people do as well) so this smoothie/drink was the perfect thing to get some nutrients and energy but not feel too full at the same time.
WHY SHOULD WOMEN STRENGTH TRAIN?
The benefits of participating in a strength training program extend much further than aesthetics. Although there are endless reasons why women should strength train, this article will elaborate on five essential reasons that women should join a strength training program.
MY MOTHER-IN-LAW’S CHICKEN SOUP
My mother-in-law taught me her version of chicken noodle soup, and I’ve used it ever since! Nothing earth-shaking here, just some added twists for the trying.
THE BENEFITS OF GROUP/TEAM TRAINING
There's something special about starting a group class or joining a team sport. Working out together helps you form bonds and, ultimately, new friendships. Sharing the same experiences brings everyone together. When you join an exercise group or team, these new connections foster greater consistency and accountability. They can also create more motivation and excitement about a workout.
MEET TIFFANY MARTINCIC: Massage Therapist, Fascial Stretch Therapist, & Rock Tape Practitioner
Hi PFP! My name is Tiffany, and I’m excited to be the new massage therapist here! I recently moved here from Florida with my family. I have been practicing massage since 2014 and have two college degrees in exercise science and kinesiology. I have worked in sports and clinical settings since I graduated.
FARRO: The Super Grain
Farro. It’s known as a ‘supergrain’ because it’s rich in vitamins B and E. Farro also has lots of Magnesium, a mineral that helps with muscle relaxation. This recipe is from a package of farro that I got from Trader Joe’s. It’s a weeknight favorite. Fast and delicious. I’ve added some modifications to make it vegetarian or vegan-friendly if desired.
CARDIO 101
Cardiovascular training, often called "cardio," is fundamental to any well-rounded fitness routine. It's not just about losing weight or building endurance; cardio exercises are essential for maintaining a healthy heart and overall well-being. Let’s explore the basics of cardio training, its benefits, different exercises, and tips for starting your cardio journey.