Live Healthy: Fitness Fashion

Splendid Hair Ties | Target Ello Water Bottle | Neutrogena Cleansing Facial Wipes | Alo Yoga Mat | Target C9 by Champion Women's Layered Tank with Bra {Pink, Yellow, Grey} | Splendid Leggings | Old Navy Shorts | Monrow Vintage Pants | Tory Burch Flip Flops | Nike Dual Fusion Sneakers | Nike High Tops

For my 25^th birthday my mom gave me a gift certificate to a local gym – Kees Camp Fitness Studio. They offer a variety of classes ranging from Zumba and hip hop to boxing and yoga, and of course, pole fitness. Yes, pole fitness. Last night I took my first class – hip hop. The choreography was set to Run the World {Girls} by Beyonce. So inspiring, I haven’t felt that adrenaline high in the LONGEST time. It’s amazing what one dance class can do for the body and the mind. As I was gathering my things to leave, I saw the ladies prepping for the next class – Beginner Tricks. The owner of the studio who was teaching suggested I stick around to check out the class. I accepted, but couldn’t help by think, what am I getting myself into?

I don’t think my arms have been so sore. I have a new found respect for people who have the upper body strength and grace {which trust me, you need some grace} to do some of the things we {ahem, I} attempted. I wanted Michelle Obama arms, and now I am going to get them.

While sweating profusely may not be the most glamorous thing in the world, you can at least look good while you are getting your butt in shape. 

More legwear:

Monrow Cropped Sweatpants FREECITY Sweatpants Shop Loungewear 

Live Healthy: Arm Workout #1

My main goal within the next year is to develop some amazing arms, something a la Michelle Obama for my wedding dress that I get to wear a little over a year from next Saturday. Last week I started taking a barre class at a local yoga studio, Power Life Yoga. Let me tell you something, doing cardio barre in 94 degree heat is hard. But words can't describe how great it felt once the class was over and I realized I survived! I can't wait to go back again! 

*tricep extensions, tricep dips, bicep curls

Live Healthy: Abs Workout #1

Today's Live Healthy post is all about the abs! The warm weather means one thing, it's getting closer to swimsuit season! Time to get those core muscles in shape! Take note of this ab workout brought to you by Amanda Tyson and you'll be one step closer to this, this, and this suit! 

**russian twists, bicycle crunches

Live Healthy: Lettuce Wraps

I'm happy to announce a new series on The Brunette One, Live Healthy. I'm notorious for pinning images of work-outs and healthy recipes {though you may notice I have a bit of a sweet tooth}, but never following through with them in real life. I reached out to my dear, dear friend, Amanda Tyson**, who I've met through Kind Campaign and asked her to put together some easy food ideas & recipes for the girl on the go. First up, easy lunches when you need to bring your lunch to work!

Lettuce Wraps:

Take 3 pieces of Romaine Heart lettuce and wash them.

Spread as much hummus as you’d like onto the lettuce

Add low sodium turkey & veggies of your choice

Wrap them up & enjoy!

**I've known Amanda for many years and I've seen her do some amazing things. She courageously auditioned for Biggest Loser Season 12 and was a casting finalist, but did not make it to the show. After that, she decided to take it upon herself to start her own journey of weight loss and self discovery. She has now decided to motivate and guide others in the right direction and encouraging that everyone CAN do it too!

Amanda is my inspiration to start living a healthier life style, to get my butt in shape for my wedding, and to finally start trying these recipes & work-outs.