Since 2009
THE PRAYFIT DEVOTION
TEMPLE TEMPER
October 12, 2010Read: Proverbs 22
"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control." --Proverbs 22:24-28
Jesus was love. He healed the sick, caused the blind to see and fed the masses.
Jesus was Lord. He hung from the cross, only to defeat death both spiritually and literally.
But Jesus was also man. He bled, he cried, he loved.
With His humanity came another very human trait: anger. One of the most famous anger-fueled outbursts in recorded history was the scene He caused at the temple in Jerusalem in the days before His crucifixion. Upset that the moneychangers that had more or less converted the temple in Jerusalem into an early-A.D. Wall Street, He shouted, threw coins and turned over tables. This depiction of a enraged Jesus is a stark contradiction to the gentle Savior that most of us like to think about but it's important to remember that his anger was purposeful and divine while ours is often petty and misguided.
In a society rife with stress-filled workplaces, conflict-riddled homes, polarizing political debate and seemingly interminable commutes, it is not uncommon for us to give in to our temper -- to lash out at those around us or have a Jesus-at-the-temple kind of outburst. But we are taught in Proverbs and hundreds of other places in scripture that anger is a destructive and polluting force in our lives. In anger, we tend to exhibit the least Christ-like parts of ourselves. Our tongues sharpen, but our sensitivity to those around us dulls. We sling harsh words or worse, often leaving a shameful wake of hurt and despair.
James 1:20 reminds us that man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. As with other sin, our goal should always be to get better everyday -- to systematically stamp out behavior that can harm us (or those around us). It's not to say that you won't have a fleeting moment of fury the next time you are wronged, but how you deal with it (Ephesians 4:26-27) means everything, both to those around you and in the eyes of the Lord.
--E.V.
OBESITY: AN OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD The high cost of America's weight problem in the workplace
Those who struggle with their weight sometimes come to the conclusion (read: rationalization) that obesity is a "victimless" crime -- that they are somehow only hurting themselves. Well, there's a mounting body of research that is proving just the opposite -- that rising obesity numbers are costing our country billions each year. A new study in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, states that the U.S. economy suffers a hit of over $70 billion as a result of an obese work force. This number is measured by a variety of factors including lost work days and down productivity.
For the full story on the Duke University study, click here.
>> SECURITY THREAT: To find out how America's weight problem has become a national security issue, visit Mission: Readiness.
>> PRAYFIT HEADLINES: PrayFit founder Jimmy Pena spoke to the Tyler Paper to promote his upcoming guest-speaking appearance. Read the full article here.
26.2: THE FINISH
October 11, 2010Read: Corinthians 9
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." --1 Corinthians 9:24
Twenty-six miles. Well, 26.2 to be exact. Driving back from San Diego, Loretta checked the online results for her first marathon. The four hours and 14 minutes it took her to run a little over 26 miles represented the culmination of countless days and weeks of preparation and sacrifice. And for a non-runner like her husband, it represented four hours and 14 minutes of pride and excitement.
Finding my perfect place on the course, I hunkered down. With camera in hand, I anxiously awaited the love of my life to turn the corner and head for home. And as I waited, I took some notes. It just so happens that a marathon is to a fitness writer what a farmer's market is to a chef; plenty of ingredients from which to choose.
Oh, and yes, Loretta turned the corner indeed. Just like I knew she would. With a flushed face, she put one foot in front of the other and ran right to me. Well, first she finished the race, of course, but I took her home. All things being equal, somehow I think God understands the marathon.
--J.P.
PRAYFIT WORKOUT OF THE WEEK: 26.2
You workout of the week is to run, bike, walk or swim for at least 26.2 minutes. Go as fast as you can and log your distance, either visually or by using a site like Map My Run (www.mapmyrun.com). Each day this week -- or a minimum of three times -- run the same amount of time but increase the distance. More work in the same amount of time will get you great results, whether you're looking to improve cardiovascular fitness, endurance or just shed a few pounds.
DID YOU KNOW? THE FIRST MARATHON
The name Marathon comes from the legend of Pheidippides, a Greek messenger. The legend states that he was sent from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce that the Persians had been defeated in the Battle of Marathon (in which he had just fought), which took place in August or September, 490 BC. It is said that he ran the entire distance without stopping and burst into the assembly, exclaiming “We have won!” before collapsing and dying.
(Source: Wikipedia)
LEAVING HIM BEHIND
October 8, 2010 Most people, Christian or not, are familiar with the Footprints story. The end stanza where the Lord tells the author why there was only one set of footprints during the hard times puts a lump in the throat of even those with the most hardened of hearts.
"The time when you have seen only one set of footprints is when I carried you."
This week, amidst a storm of work tasks and family obligations, I also found myself alone on the beach. As I chatted to the Lord about all of my stresses -- the deadlines, the bills, my overcrowded daytimer -- I was stopped in my tracks, not by his response but by His silence. Hurt and agitated -- as I would be with any friend -- by the apparent indifference to my woes, I turned to look at Him. Seeing that He was no longer by my side, I looked back. There He was -- struggling to keep up, quickening His stride and straining to hear what I was saying.
He never stopped caring about my problems. I had just become so consumed with stress that I didn't realize that I'd left Him behind. In a week, I seem to have outpaced my Maker, the distance between us filled with my own neglect.
Sometimes, as we struggle to navigate the chaos of life, we forget that God wants us to walk with Him. He'll still carry us through the tough times but we'd do well to remember that checking in with Him regularly will ensure that He hears every word.
Have a glorious weekend -- we'll see you here Monday!
--E.V.
PRAYFIT: WEEK IN REVIEW Revisiting a week of updates, new features and fun facts
>> NEWS: PrayFit is hitting the road!
>> VIDEO: A welcome message from PrayFit founder Jimmy Pena
>> DISCUSSION: Does God call us to be fit?
>> FUN FACTS: How far did Jesus walk?
WALKING THE WALK
October 7, 2010 "For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." --1 Timothy 4:8
As we strive -- and struggle -- to live more like Jesus, it's important to immerse ourselves in God's word on a daily basis. But an extension of Christ-like living, whether we realize it or not, is exercise (1 Timothy 4:8) -- because Jesus did a lot of it, mostly through walking. Sure, most of that was out of necessity but you can bet that He was pretty fit. Would you believe that Jesus walked over 3,000 miles during his ministry? Click the link below and marvel at the mileage He racked up. Then, lace up your shoes and take a walk! WWJD?
>> FORUM: Does God call us to be fit? See what others are saying and leave your thoughts in our forums or by clicking comments below.
DOES GOD CALL US TO BE FIT?
October 6, 2010 Does God call us to be fit? Does He care if we're unhealthy? If the heart is right, does the body matter? We want to know what you think. Weigh in on the discussion here.
And while you're at the forums, visit these other hot topics:
PRAYER REQUESTS: Pray with and for other PrayFit members here.
NO SMOKING?: What does the bible say about smoking?
POLL: Where do you workout? Share with others in our informal survey.
WORKOUT JOURNALS: Find out what other PrayFit readers do to keep fit, or start your own online journal.
CHILD OBESITY: Join the discussion on this growing epidemic.
PRAYFIT 101
October 5, 2010 Paul says in Corinthians (1 Cor. 9:24) to run "in such a way as to get the prize." Assuming that you're heeding his advice today, we want to help you find your stride. Our goal is to provide you with the resources to bolster your faith and fitness in only minutes a day. Take a second to view this message from founder Jimmy Pena.
Then, for more information on how to use this website and all it has to offer you, check out this step-by-step starter guide.
>> SPREAD THE FAITH! Help us spread the gospel of faith and fitness TODAY by "liking" us at Facebook and then suggesting us to five people!
TAKING PRAYFIT ON THE ROAD
October 4, 2010Read: Luke 5
"And he withdrew himself into the wilderness and prayed." --Luke 5:16
The understatement of the year would be to say that we at PrayFit have been blessed. Your faithfulness, encouragement and prayers have overwhelmed us. We're humbled by your response to our automatic e-mail feed and we want to publicly give the Lord all the glory. We thank Him for who He is, for what He's done, for what He's doing right now, and for what He will do in the weeks and months ahead.
With that promise, we are going to follow His lead into our own wilderness for time of prayer, rejuvenation and renovation! Over the next few weeks, we will be doing some traveling, speaking at churches and conferences beginning in Tyler, Texas at the Fit City Challenge where we will be delivering the keynote speech. Not only will we be sharing the PrayFit message, but we will be pre-selling our first book, helping parents, kids and teens live healthier, fuller lives. If you haven’t pre-ordered the book on Amazon for yourself or as a gift, please do so by clicking here.
If you want to book the PrayFit team to visit your church, community center or sports team over the next few months, please e-mail us at [email protected] for more information!
In the meantime, please keep us in your prayers -- as always, you'll be in ours.
In Jesus’ name, we train.
Team PrayFit
EMPTY AND READY
October 1, 2010Read: 1 Chronicles 29
"Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name." --1 Chronicles 29:13
He wipes the sweat from his brow as he sweeps an empty body shop. Every few seconds, his eyes rise to see if any customers had stumbled in, but none do. His wife takes care of the office, the phones, and the plant on the window sill. "Please Lord, bring us a customer." They'd poured out their life's savings. So as he continues to sweep a spotless floor, she straightens the OPEN FOR BUSINESS sign on the front window. It's a good shop. Empty and ready.
Yesterday, we at PrayFit got some news that reminded me of that story. It seems that Eric, myself and our wives are sweeping our own empty body shop, whispering to the Lord to see things through. You know, it's when we empty ourselves that the Lord does His work. But if we're full of ourselves or anything else, we leave no room for Him.
So Lord, we give you all that we do and say. We love you and we thank you in advance for what you will do in the days, weeks and months ahead. We're empty and ready.
(Oh, and thank you for sending a customer to my mom and dad so many years ago. In many ways, because you filled their empty shop, I can fill up this page with your good word.)
Have a blessed weekend everyone. In Jesus' name, we train.
--J.P.
PRAYFIT: WEEK IN REVIEW
WORKOUT: 10-minute full body blast
NEWS: How does obesity affect women differently than men?
TIP: How mastering your bodyweight can bring new progress
>> JOIN THE NETWORK: Not a member of our Facebook page yet? Click here, click "like," click "suggest to friends" and help us grow the PrayFit community!
PEYTON MANNING MOMENTS
September 30, 2010Read: Luke 9
"But Jesus said, 'You feed them.' They answered him saying, 'But we only have five loaves of bread and two fish, unless we go and buy food for all these people.'" --Luke 9:13
I've declared this week a Peyton Manning week. Of all the great things that Peyton is known for in the National Football League (NFL), changing the plays at the line of scrimmage is one of them. More often than not, he breaks the huddle, approaches the line and, based on what he sees in the defense, he yells out a different plan. He calls an audible and, in doing so, changes the game.
Now, for Peyton to be able to read the defense is a gift, no doubt. But I'm as impressed with how his offense adapts so quickly to his changing mind. One thing is for certain, you can't work with Peyton and expect routine. As for me? I'd prefer Peyton to simply remember what we agreed in the huddle; 'Just stick to the original plan, would ya?' I love my daily routine. I can deal with the expected.
You know, Jesus was known for calling a few audibles of his own. Like we see in today's passage, asking the impossible, he'd watch his disciples go from scratching their heads to rubbing their eyes. Maybe that's why Jesus so often asked where their faith was. I know He'd ask me the same. Can anyone relate? Anyone else having a week of unfamiliar routes and last-minute audibles? Anyone else rubbing their eyes yet?
--J.P.
MASTERING YOUR BODYWEIGHT How a simple increase in intensity can maximize your workouts
At Prayfit, we rely a lot on bodyweight exercises. In many of our weekly workouts, you'll see maybe a plyo-push up or a jump squat. Those moves are incredible for developing lean muscle. But I want to explain why. Take the plyo-push up for example. During the plyo-push up, you lower your chest toward the floor slowly, then you press yourself up as powerfully and explosively as possible in order to let your hands come off the floor. Some of you can even do clap push-ups, clapping your hands on each rep.
Well, there's a lot of science behind that simple move. See, during a typical push-up (and any standard rep on anything in the gym for that matter) we decelerate the move so that our hands remain in contact with the floor. Same thing with, say, the bench press. We decelerate the bar as we press up so the bar doesn't leave our hands. BUT, during plyo-push ups, we forget about deceleration and allow our hands to leave the floor. Doing so causes more fast-twitch muscle fibers to be utilized. Fast-twitch fibers are those muscle fibers most responsible for tone for the ladies and muscle mass for the guys. The explosive nature of the ply0s calls those fibers into play.
So the next time you see a jump squat or plyo-push up, you know why. AND, when you get too tired during any of those sets, simply resume the exercise with the standard version of that move and you'll help tighten and tone even more.
>> PARTNERS: Find out who's endorsed us and what people are saying about PrayFit at our Partners page.
I'LL HAVE TO ASK
September 29, 2010Read: Luke 11
“Ask, and you shall receive. Seek and you shall find.” –Luke 11:9
Back in high school, I had a basketball coach ask me if I’d come back to the team. It had been a couple years since I’d played, and by then I’d become a one-sport athlete. His question was as brief as it was surprising when he asked, “Jimmy, we need you back. Will you play?”
My response was only a little less expected than what he said next. I replied, “Wow coach, sounds awesome. I just need to check with my dad first.” To which he smiled and said, “No Jimmy, I was only testing you, seeing if you’d be there for us.”
He shook my hand and thanked me. (I admit, I was relieved.) A little test, I guess. Whether I passed or not, I’m not sure. But I’ve thought about that moment over the years. His question, my response, his reply. And I remember telling my dad about it later that night; dad loved that my answer required his blessing.
You know, we’re constantly being tested and the crossroads are always before us. Which way? That way? No way!! How much better would our lives be if with each decision, big or small, we said, “You know, I just need to check with my Father first.” And as I’ve learned even recently, it’s never too late to ask.
--J.P.
PRAYFIT RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Roasted Tomato Sauce
Makes 10 servings (1/2 cup each)
Ingredients:
6-8 large tomatoes cut into large chunks 1/2 large red onion, roughly chopped 1 red chili pepper, chopped 3 cloves garlic, whole 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon dried oregano Freshly ground black pepper 1 can (15 ounces) canned tomato sauce, no salt added 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1/2 cup red wine 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place tomatoes, onion, chili and garlic on a large sheet pan; add 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, oregano and pepper and toss to coat. Roast vegetables for 25-30 minutes or until tomatoes just begin to char; set aside to cool slightly. In a large pot, heat remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and then add the roasted tomato mixture, tomato sauce, tomato paste and wine. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add basil and parsley; season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Puree sauce using an immersion blender* until smooth.
*If you do not have an immersion blender, puree in a countertop blender in small batches. Make sure to hold the top of the blender closed with a dish towel while the machine is on.
Nutrition Information Per Serving: Calories: 80 calories Total Fat: 3 grams Saturated Fat: 0 grams Total Carbohydrate: 11 grams Protein: 2 grams Sodium: 139 milligrams Cholesterol: 0 milligrams Fiber: 3 grams
Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC is a registered dietitian and is currently a nutrition expert for the Food Network, and has worked as a media spokesperson for Cooking Light Magazine. She has appeared on Good Day Street Talk, Food Network.com, Access Hollywood and GMA Health. Visit her at Dana White Nutrition.
>> NEW TO PRAYFIT?: If you're new to PrayFit and are looking for tips on how to get the most out of your daily visits here, check out our handy "Getting Started" guide by clicking here.
>> SPREAD THE WORD: Our official page on Facebook has picked up over 550 "likes" in the early going. Help us reach 1,000 by the time the book hits stores in December by clicking "suggest to friends" in the top left corner.
HIDE AND SEEK
September 28, 2010Read: Psalm 32
“You are my hiding place. You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” – Psalm 32: 7
I'm no Jack Hanna, but did you know that the rhinoceros beetle is the strongest creature on the planet? He’s the Popeye of the animal world. Elephants? Weaklings. Hippos? Don’t even belong in the same sentence. Oh sure, the elephant can put up to 25% of it’s weight on its back, and the Hippo’s bite provides around 1400 pounds of pressure per square inch, but compared to a beetle? That’s like fighting a lion with a toothpick, especially when you consider that this beetle can carry 850 times his own weight. To put that into perspective, if you were that strong, you’d be able to lift 65 tons over your head.
But what’s interesting to me is not how strong he is compared to the other creatures, but it’s how he got so strong that catches my attention. Scientists say he’s so strong because every day he digs his way to a hiding place to escape danger. He literally moves earth to get to safety. Simply put, he gets strong when he hides.
You know, as believers we gain strength when we go to our hiding place; when we find a quiet place to talk to the Lord and read His word. When we don’t — when we get “too busy” – we’re weakened, out in the open, vulnerable, and subject to predators we were never meant to face. But friends, when life is a jungle, He’s our hiding place and source of strength all in one, and we can go there anytime we want. After all, He moved heaven (and earth) to make sure we could.
–J.P.
THE OBESITY GENDER GAP Does it cost women more than men to be obese?
Obesity is taking its toll on America. A new study conducted by OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development), a group of 33 countries ""committed to democracy and the market economy," showed that the U.S. has the highest percentage of overweight and obese individuals in the democratic, market-economy world. Not exactly a great distinction for us as Americans.
But within our own waist-widened society, it may be women that are hardest hit. Another study, performed by researchers at George Washington University, shows that a woman ends up paying nearly double her male counterparts. While a man racks up $2,646 annually in extra expenses if he is obese, a woman’s obesity costs her $4,879, almost twice as much. For the full story, click here.
RIGHT ON CUE
September 27, 2010Read: Philippians 1
"Being confident in this, that he who began a good work in you, will carry it on until completion to the day of Jesus Christ." --Philippians 1:6
Last night, my nephew Casey called us to play a song he'd been practicing for an upcoming piano recital. Casey, 16, is an aspiring songwriter and musician, and as he thundered away at his keyboard, my wife and I put him on speaker. A few seconds into his masterpiece, Loretta and I were in awe. We couldn't believe his talent. "That's my nephew!" I boasted. And then right on cue, Casey's perfection got pitchy. What should have been sharp went south, and what flowed went flat.
"It needs work," Casey explained with a giggle as he got back on the phone. But of course, despite a few hiccups, we thought it was awesome. "Keep working, Case. It'll come," we encouraged with applause.
You know, Casey's call gave me encouragement for the upcoming week. Each of us has a song to live. A beautiful melody that God loves to hear us play. After all, He conducts our lifesong. And while we might hit a sour note from time to time, like Casey's riff, God the conductor is still at work and loving us through our low notes.
And as it so happens, a few minutes after the call, I sent Casey a text asking him what the name of the tune was. He sent back, "Who I am hates who I've been." (Wow, right on cue.)
--J.P.
PRAYFIT WORKOUT OF THE WEEK: 10-Minute Full-Body Blast
Contrary to what most "hour per session" trainers will tell you, there's a fantastic level of fitness to be had by investing 10 minutes per day in exercise. The following quickie routine is a perfect day-starter for those looking to hit all their major muscle groups without an exhausting trip to the gym. After a few minutes of warm-up -- think 2-5 minutes worth of jumping jacks, running in place and arm swings -- perform each exercise listed, in order, to failure. Move from exercise to exercise without rest, save for the time it takes to list how many reps you performed on each. When you complete the last set of double crunches, rest 1-2 minutes, then perform the entire circuit once more, again listing your total number of reps.
Try this workout 2-3 times this week -- or for several weeks -- and, with proper nutrition, we guarantee you'll be looking and feeling stronger and leaner.
Exercise Sets Reps Jump squats 2 to failure Stationary Wall Squat 2 to failure Power Push-Up 2 to failure Standard Push-Up 2 to failure Double Crunch 2 t0 failure
>> WORKOUT JOURNALS: Chronicle your successes and shortcomings of your experiences with this workout and others in a PrayFit Workout Journal by clicking here.
A WALK IN THE PARK
September 23, 2010Read: Ephesians 6
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” –Ephesians 6:10
On a recent walk, I stopped at a nearby park where I noticed a group of kids huddled around a coach. He was giving a pep talk. I loved it. Squatting down to meet them eye-to-eye, he said things like, “Let’s be aggressive. Help each other out and work hard!” Parents formed a semicircle around the group, and when the team broke the huddle, I realized it was a karate class; self defense for the little guys.
Interestingly, the coach put one student in the middle and then sent one, two, then three other students in to fight him. “The key,” the instructor yelled to the one in the middle, “is to keep the opponent in front of you at all times!” Before the drill was over, it was 4-on-1. The whistle blew, the parents applauded, and the kids rotated positions.
Heading home, it dawned on me that the coach had it right. He said to keep everything in front of you, because that’s where your opponent is. A buddy of mine, Jimmy Page from FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), taught me that God gives us armor, such as the breastplate, the shield and the sword that are all frontal weapons. He doesn’t give us anything to protect our back. Why? Because the battle is in front of us. We’re not surprised by the enemy, nor does he sneak up and attack us from behind.
So I suppose, in a way, our temptations and struggles can be thought of as compliments; God won’t allow us to be tested beyond what He knows we can endure. When God became a man, He lowered Himself to see us eye-to-eye and gave us a self-defense class of our own. With Him, we can conquer anything that lies ahead, especially since we know He’s always got our backs.
–J.P.
OKAY TO SPLURGE
Contrary to popular belief, being super strict 100 percent of the time is not the only way to reach your physique goals. If you're feeling like you need to splurge a bit on your diet, that's fine -- just get better at picking your moment. One great time to splurge is right after a tough workout.
Many people will tell you that if you eat bad right after a workout, you've ruined all of your hard work. But nothing could be further from the truth. The best time to eat bad is right after a vigourous workout. Research shows that you are much less likely to store food (bad or good) as fat and much more likely to metabolize it for energy following a workout. So the next time you want to go nuts and splurge, hit the gym first -- just hit it hard!
REWARD IF FOUND
September 22, 2010Read: Mark 10
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” --Mark 10:45
A few weeks ago, my wife and I noticed freshly posted “LOST DOG” signs throughout the neighborhood. Every other tree bore the image of a cute, cuddly fur ball with big, sad, brown eyes. You couldn’t help but stop and read it, nor could you miss the bold words: “REWARD IF FOUND.”
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m a dog lover for sure, but there were a lot of zeros after that dollar sign. (Josey better stay real close to home if that’s the going rate on the streets.) All I know is that two things must be true about that lost pup: 1) she’s loved and 2) her owner will pay the price to get her home.
You know where I’m going with this, so forgive the comparison, but we too have gone astray. Even on our best days, we’d be be lost forever. But God loves us so much that He allowed our ransom to be nailed to a tree; reward if found.
–J.P.
PRAYFIT RECIPE OF THE WEEK Enjoy Dana Angelo White's recipe for a delicious healthy Raspberry Vinaigrette
Makes 16 Servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon chopped scallion 2 teaspoons raspberry jam Pinch kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper to taste 1⁄2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
Directions: In a medium bowl combine lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, scallion and preserves. Season with salt and pepper and whisk to combine. Slowly whisk in olive oil. When all of the oil is incorporated, mix in fresh raspberries.
Nutrition Info Per Tablespoon: Calories: 65 Total Fat: 7 grams Saturated Fat: 0 grams Carbohydrate: 1 grams Protein: 0 gram Cholesterol: 0 milligrams Sodium: 22 milligrams Fiber: 0 grams
Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC is a registered dietitian and is currently a nutrition expert for the Food Network, and has worked as a media spokesperson for Cooking Light Magazine. She has appeared on Good Day Street Talk, Food Network.com, Access Hollywood and GMA Health. Visit her at Dana White Nutrition.
DRAWING CONCLUSIONS
September 21, 2010Read: 2 Corinthians 3
"And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." -- 2 Corinthians 3:18
We recently took my brother and his family to Universal Studios in Los Angeles (Calif). He's got two young boys so naturally they wanted to hit the roller coasters, leaving yours truly holding the bags. But turns out, there's plenty to do with your feet firmly on the ground.
So while my family was busy doing loopdiloops, I had a caricature made of myself. "Why not?", I reasoned. The man said, "Step right up", so I plopped right down. Those passing by would take a look at the drawing, then up at me, then back to the drawing. I suppose they wanted to see if the picture being painted resembled the real thing. Well, after I paid Picasso, I walked back toward my family holding a cartoon of a stranger. But how could I be bitter? He only drew what he saw.
As Christians, we're supposed to resemble Jesus. Yet, I know in my own life, more times than not I don't look anything like Him. I'm a bad caricature of the real thing. And the conclusions people draw of me, aren't anything close to what I am (or who I have) on the inside. A show of hands for those who can relate...
Lord, help us reflect you today; in how we think, work and live. Help us paint for others an accurate picture of you. Amen.
--J.P.
SEDENTARY NATION More Americans spending their time doing anything but exercising
The epidemic continues. Is there an end in sight? A recent story published at CNN Health showed that most Americans spend a vast majority of their non-work and non-sleep time in sedentary activities like eating, drinking, or watching TV or movies. Just over 5% of subjects in the study reported doing any vigorous activity.
For the full report, visit CNN Health.
PURPOSE OVER PROCESS
September 20, 2010Read: 2 Corinthians 4
"What we see will last only a short time, but what we cannot see will last forever." --2 Corinthians 4:18
There’s an old story about a pharaoh whose young wife died far too soon. In his grief, he ordered his wife’s tomb to be built lavishly. No expense was too great for the monument. Each time he’d survey the construction site, he’d order more jewels and more gold - - Bigger! Higher! His wife’s tomb became his obsession.
One day, as he proudly surveyed his masterpiece, the pharaoh tripped over a box along the perimeter. Embarrassed, he ordered the removal of all the trash. What he didn’t realize was that along with all the rubbish, he’d ordered the removal of his wife’s coffin. See, he was so caught up in the process that he forgot about the purpose.
I was reminded of that story while watching the movie “Up in the Air.” George Clooney played a man whose life was all about the journey. He lived for the process. Flight status boards, frequent flyer miles and hotel key cards were the trophies of his trade. Link enough of yesterday’s trips together with tomorrow’s, and sooner or later, you’ve got yourself a life.
But this week, let’s focus less on our man-made monuments and more on the one who matters. Like John the Baptist, leaping in his mother's womb, to Paul on the road to Damascus, our lives gain meaning when our purpose is revealed. Remember, Jesus is our destination. Everything else is just a first-class ticket to nowhere.
–J.P.
WORKOUT OF THE WEEK: Legs
Of all of the training days you can spend in the gym, leg day may be the most important. Whether or not you "need" better, stronger legs, training them -- again, think purpose -- on a regular basis can help you change your body, all over, for the better.
If you're a beginner or you're coming back from an injury or layoff, this workout is for you. As your muscles strengthen and get accustomed to weight training, you can move on to more challenging free weight moves and intermediate-level workouts, but it’s important to build a solid base first to optimize success later.
Exercise Sets Reps Horizontal Leg-Press Machine 2 12, 15 Leg Extension 2 12, 15 Lying Leg Curl 2 12, 15 Standing Calf Raise 2 To failure
>> WIN! If you haven't started a PrayFit Workout Journal already, now's the time. The next 10 people to start (and keep) their journal with us will win a free PrayFit wristband.
GOOD AS NEW
September 17, 2010Read: 1 John 1
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." --1 John 1:9
When doctors say, “You’ll be good as new,” we know what they mean. They’re taking all their knowledge and expertise and, based on their best efforts, will try and restore us to optimum health. What they don’t mean is that we’ll be as healthy as we were 10, 20 or 30 years ago. We explain to physicians what the symptoms are and where it hurts. Why do we give all that information? Well, simple…so they can know how to treat us and make us aaaaall better. And while we’re so thankful for our doctors, when they say “good as new,” deep inside we know what they mean.
Let’s imagine we’ve made an appointment with Jesus, the great physician. You’re sitting in the exam room, waiting for Him to walk in. You’re hurting. On the wall are no diplomas, no certifications — just framed pictures of the faces of others who have been there to see Him. And now you’re here. For some, this is your first time in His office. And you’re here because life has been painful. It wasn’t supposed to be this way. Maybe your marriage didn’t last, retirement was put on hold, or your health was taken away far too soon. And now you need someone to not only take away the pain, but to remove the hurt.
A light knock at the door and it’s Him. You don’t know whether to fall on your face or hug Him, so you manage to do both. He sits down next to you, and even though He knows the answer to His next question, he asks you where it hurts, and pointing at your heart, you tell Him. In your anguish, He holds your hand, and you notice the nail scars in His.
He stands and grabs His prescription pad, and you watch as He scribbles. He hands it to you and walks you to the door. You look into His eyes, and you thank Him. And with tears still in His, He says goodbye.
As you go to pay the bill, the people behind the desk tell you that there’s no charge, that your physician has paid the price in full; you’re free to go. All you have to do is fill the prescription and you’ll be good as new. And somehow deep inside, you know what they mean.
--J.P.
PRAYFIT WEEK IN REVIEW A look back at a week of healthy living solutions
PrayFit Workout of the Week: More Defined Shoulders
Stats: The ever-expanding reach of the obesity epidemic
Video: Time in the kitchen with nutritionist Dana Angelo White
Q&A: The benefits and drawbacks of using training straps
It was a great week. We're so thankful you joined us and we hope it's been an encouragement. Enjoy the weekend and we'll see you Monday. In Jesus' name, we train.
--Team PrayFit
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SHEPHERDS IN SUITS
September 16, 2010Read: Matthew 10
"And even the very hairs on your head are numbered." --Matthew 10:30
Of last year’s highlights and heroes, none made as much of an impact on me as did a small group of soldiers-turned-bodyguards. Once brave on the battlefield for our country, these men now stand in the gap between danger and their client, with no regard for self. On watch and on guard, for the sake of their call.
As it so happens, I was hired to help their client with training and nutrition, so I had a rare, bird's eye view of their excellence. And what I witnessed was nothing short of perfection. Selfless, stealthy. Shepherds in suits. I say shepherds because shepherds are fierce protectors; they can handle themselves, no problem. And yet shepherds are as caring for their sheep as nurses with newborns. And because I stayed close to the client, I shared his shield. I was safe, not because of who I was, but because of who he was. One call from the client, and you got the cavalry.
So I suppose it's no wonder the bible refers to Jesus as the Great Shepherd. He watches over us night and day, and would go through hell to keep us safe. As a matter of fact, He did.
One call to Him? Calvary.
--J.P.
PRAYFIT Q&A: STRAPS
Q: What's the real deal with weight lifting straps? Are they beneficial or are they keeping me from developing maximum strength?
A: To many of you who love to lift weights, the idea of using a pair of pulling straps on back day is the last thing on your mind. But let’s take a practical look at what exactly is going on when you use straps.
Let’s say your best 10 rep max (10RM) on dumbbell rows without straps is 100 pounds, meaning if you just use your hands, you could row a 100-pound dumbbell ten times. Then we twist your arm and you reluctantly use a pair of straps which allows you to pull that same dumbbell 12 times. First off, if you could achieve 1-2 more reps by using a simple pulling strap, imagine how many more reps your back could endure over the course of a year! That’s two extra reps per set, at, say, four sets per exercise, at four exercises per day, at two days a week. The cumulative benefits to be derived from the benefits that straps offer far outweigh the biggest drawback, which is development of grip strength. However, if you're that serious about grip strength, you can simply add a forearms training session at some point during the week.
Try a set of straps on your heaviest pulling days and see how your back responds to the added weight and volume that they allow. You can try any starter set of straps -- we suggest Versa Gripps (www.versagripps.com). (today's fitness tip is a modified excerpt from my work in Musclemag magazine)
BE REALLY STILL
September 14, 2010Read: Psalm 46
“Be still and know that I am God.” –Psalm 46:10
If you’ve never had an MRI procedure, let me paint the scene. You lay down and the technician gives you ear plugs to numb the deafening sounds that are soon to come. You get secured into position and after a short list of instructions, you’re sent inside this narrow tube. Claustrorphobes should skip the next sentence, because they send you in head first, so that your entire body is inside the casing, with just a couple of inches between the end of your nose and the inside of the cylinder. To say you feel vulnerable is no exaggeration. You battle mental questions like, “What if I can’t get out? What if the power goes out? What if?!”
Your only solace is the comforting voice of the tech that booms around you throughout the exam, repeating his instructions and making sure you’re okay. The most important thing? Be very, very still. Regardless of what’s going on around you, what you hear, as well as your seemingly helpless predicament, don’t move a muscle until the test is done. If you’re able to be still, the physician has a better chance to determine what’s going on inside.
Pretty good advice, don’t you think?
We have a lot going on around us; from the economy, to security issues to relationships. Sometimes we feel trapped, surrounded by the strange but familiar sounds of a life we’ve chosen, asking scary questions like, “What if I don’t get the job? What if I fail? What if?!” Yet the most important thing? Be as still as we can, and listen for His voice through the noise.
--J.P.
(VIDEO) RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Oatmeal Peanut Butter Bars
A few weeks ago, Dana Angelo White gave us a delicious recipe for breakfast bars, and many of you told us you loved them. Well, here's an added treat: Dana demonstrating how to make them in the kitchen! Take it away Dana,and thanks for all you do at healthyeats.com, The Food Network and for all of us here at PrayFit.com!
VIDEO: Oatmeal Peanut Butter Bars
LET'S MAKE A DEAL!
September 14, 2010Read: Phillipians 4
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." --Phillipians 4:6-7
Do you ever feel like a contestant on Let's Make a Deal? Well, that's me today. I've been hit with door Nos. 1, 2 and 3, each with something behind it that I may exchange for what's already valuable to me. Truly, all I need is a life-size deck of cards to poke my face through, and it's game on, Monty.
Decisions, decisions. Our lives are chock full of them, right? From the little ones we dealt with yesterday to the bigger versions around today's corners -- which way do we go?
As believers, isn't it good to know that if we're praying, seeking wisdom and trusting in the Lord that we can go boldly into life's choices with the utmost courage? We can decide in peace, knowing that we've prayed about it and we've placed that particular burden at the cross. But if we don't (and haven't we all been there?) -- if we don't pray daily and seek His will, decision time is anything but peaceful. We end up second guessing, fretting and regretting.
So today, if you're faced with the smallest of choices or even decisions that are life and death, let's present our choices to the One who conquered both. He's been around the bend and because of Him, the coast is clear. Truly, the only door we want to pick is the one He opens.
--J.P.
HEAVY IS THE BURDEN A few more facts about weight gain in America
--Obesity affects over one-third of the adult American population. That's approximately 72,000,000 people.
--200,000,000 adult Americans are classified as overweight or obese.
--American adults are one inch taller and 25 pounds heavier today than they were in 1960.
--In 1963, the average 10-year-old boy weighed 74.2 pounds. Today, the average boy weighs 85 pounds -- an increase of 14.5%.
Source: The Obesity Society