Fitspiration Friday! Interview with Elle HairTwoHeels!

I. Am. So. Excited!!!!!!

As you may know, Elle HairTwoHeels is my partner for this year's Tone It Up Bikini Series. I'm super lucky and SUPER blessed because Elle was one of the incredible, awe-inspiring winners from last year's challenge!

I jumped at the chance to interview her for you guys!

I am the blue text and Elle is in grey!

How gorgeous is my partner?

Hey Elle! Thanks so much for doing this! Tell us, how was it that you first found Tone It Up and when?

I found Tone it Up totally randomly. I was watching YouTube videos to get ideas of what to film for my channel and someone I was watching mentioned that she had done one of their online workouts. I clicked on the link to check it out and fell in love. I had already been looking for a fitness/nutrition program, and ended up losing HOURS watching all of their videos. Their fitness videos, their vlog videos. I felt like K&K were the type of people I would get  along with on a friendship level. The way they acted with each other was the same way my best friends and I act, and I just completely fell in love with the whole lifestyle. This happened to be the same week that the Drop10 challenge had started last year so I joined that challenge then became a member and entered the bikini challenge. I had yo-yo dieted/weighed for YEARS and was thrilled to find a lifestyle that was manageable, fun & yielding lasting results. 

Had you been working on your fitness before? Did Tone It Up first inspire you to get going or give you that extra kick you needed?

I grew up as a dancer, so living an active lifestyle was something I grew up with. Along with high school pressure/ dance pressure, became a pressure internally for me to look a certain way, act a certain way and be a certain persnon that was not authentically me. In university my best friend and I joined a gym and I regularly worked out, but since I didn't know how to manage my nutrition, the results were successful at times, and unsuccessful at other times. I also discovered in 2010 that I had a wheat, sugar, dairy & soy intolerance and  so I was looking for a nutrition plan that would help me reach my goal weight, be easy to maintain longterm, and catered to my food intolerances as well.   

What's your favourite Tone It Up workout and why?

I LOVED the abs routine of the Love Your Body series. I love working my abdominals and so it's hard for me to find an ab workout that will make me sore the next day, but this one did the trick. I also love the Malibooty workout because it's one I can do without worrying about my ankle injury. I also have a love/hate relationship with Tummy Tucks.

Do you have a favourite group fitness class?

I love Zumba classes because of my dance background. I also loved Body Pump when they had it at my own gym. I enjoyed any of the weightlifting classes at my gym but with my ankle needing surgery, I can't do any of the classes right now (restricted from doing lunges, or any ankle impact activities.)

Elle regularly checks in on Instagram - follow her at HairTwoHeels

=0 WE HAVE TO DO ZUMBA TOGETHER ONE DAY! You’re currently suffering with an ankle injury, what are your favourite cardio workouts to work around it?

At first I felt VERY limited cardio-wise with my ankle injury. I also felt very limited in any lower body strengthening exercises because I wasn't allowed to weight-bare on the ankle nor do any impact activities. Even the elliptical was off limits. There is a machine at my fiancé's gym where you basically sit down and use these arm pedals to make a circle motion with your arms. Picture a bike motion but the peddles being in your hands.....I felt like a TWIT using it and I found it disrupted my breathing more than gave me a workout. I pretty much exclusively do the stationary bike for cardio. I'm pricing out used street bikes now that the weather is nicer in Canada. Sometimes I will use the arc trainer but I find I can only do 20 mins of that before it agitates my ankle. I've found the best calorie burn on the bike is when I alter any HIIT workout. I will either stand for the "high intensity" parts, or I will just peddle as fast as I can for them. I can usually burn over 500 calories in 40 mins on the bike if I push myself.

That's so inspiring! What's on Your Workout Playlist right now?

When it comes to working out, I listen to very different music than my normal taste. Normally I'm an old school folk, motown or soul lover, but when working out I like upbeat stuff. Right now my playlist consists of Light's newest album Siberia, the Inner Ninja song, and a lot of Girl Talk. Girl Talk is a band that takes popular top40 type stuff with old school rap/hip-hop and mixes it into dance music. the pace is PERFECT for when I used to run, but now just keeps me pumped up while I'm working out. I highly suggest Girl Talk and Lights!!! I also like a lot of Maroon 5 stuff for working out.

Living the Tone It Up Lifestyle, like we do, is about more than just working out and eating right. Tell us one of your beauty secrets! (Seeing as you're my personal Beauty Guru!)

This is one of my favouite things about the Tone It Up community. I said it while I was in California and I find myself saying it a lot: Tone it Up is MORE than just a workout....it'll change more than just your waistline. I have made some amazing lifelong friends like you and so many others. I have found a community of friends who I feel REALLY close and connected to. Practically none of my real-life friends are into fitness/nutrition so I LOVE having this communities support! My favourite beauty secret right now is for bad under eye circles. I recently found a GREAT combo: use Benefit's Erase Paste then set it with Bare Minerals powder concealer. The powder concealer gives it some extra coverage while setting the cream concealer leaving a flawless look that still looks VERY natural! I have TONS of beauty secrets, so if you'd like more, go subscribe to my channel! 

If you can narrow it down (hehe!), what is your beauty must have?

Yes. haha I like ANYTHING beauty/fashion related and for me it changes often because I like trying new products as well as finding "Holy Grail" products that work the best. I think I always am seeking a beauty regime which will consist of ONLY Holy Grail products eventually, so while I'm finding them all, I'm reviewing and sharing all my knowledge on my channel. In terms of broad beauty must have's I'd say the basics are a great hair conditioning treatment, a great mascara and a great skin product. The rest are all pretty much interchangeable for me. 

Elle has a YouTube channel full of tutorials, fitness related fun and vlogs! 

Are there any blogs or websites you look at (besides Tone It Up of course!) to find inspiration / new workouts to get you that little bit more motivated?

To be honest, not really. I watch Blogilates sometimes, but found her not too long ago and so I can't do a lot of her workouts with my ankle yet. I like Sarah from DietSarah and had the amazing opportunity to meet her in person as well. I like watching her videos to learn diet/nutrition tips. When it comes to what I work out to though, it's pretty much exclusively Tone It Up. WAIT! ok....I also have this KILLER abs workout which is a Denise Austin VHS from the 80's that I had converted into DVD. The outfit is AWFUL, so is the music and she's of the old school "super hyper" instructor type, but it's a great workout so I do it often anyway. I also have the Brazilian Butt DVD workouts. I find him SUPER annoying to listen to, and there is WAY too much ads on the DVD, but his floor work is VERY challenging and something I can do with my ankle injury so I do that about 3-4 times a week too. 

I'm so jealous that you met Sarah Dussault! I LOVE her! Nutrition is obviously super impoerant too! What are some of your favourite healthy recipes?

Other than protein pancakes (which are obviously the best) I love making any fruit smoothie with almond milk. In terms of actual cooked meals I am a brussel sprout FANATIC as well as a shrimp lover.

Do you have a favourite activity to keep you active outdoors?

I was an avid outdoor runner before my injury. My fiance Dan and I are also big outdoorsy people. When weather permits, we go for 1-2 hour hikes with our dog Rosco every weekend. I like canoeing and camping a lot as well and do it most weekends of the summer. I was never a cyclist, but have started because of my injury so that's a new outdoor love of mine. My fiance plays ultimate frisbee and although I've never played a full game, I REALLy enjoy the sport too.

Elle and Rosco! 

You went to Cali as a bikini series winner last year!!! What did you do when you found out that you’d won?

I literally couldn't form a sentence for 24 hours. I immediately went to my friend's house and we checked the site together because I had been stalking my computer for hours waiting for results but then had to run an errand which took me away from my computer. As I finished my errand, I saw that my twitter had blown up with congrats and so I knew I had won something, but I wasn't sure which prize (and I didn't want to get my hopes up). So I called my best friend and we looked it up together. I literally was in SOOO much shock I was shaking. I filmed a video about 30 seconds after finding out (with NOOO makeup on and making little sense) but it captures my shock for sure: 

AS A SIDE: this is a video I shot BEFORE I found out that I won last year, and I think it's important for people to watch considering the 2013 Bikini Series is underway. It helps put our goals in perspective and may help some people stay focussed on the REAL prize:  (I completely agree btw!)

Was it the absolute best girls trip ever?

I literally cannot put into words a) how much winning meant to me b) how amazing the trip was and c) how incredible meeting K&K as well as Holli, Sophie & Laura was. Becoming a Tone it Up girl has changed my whole life, but the trip was so profoundly amazing that whenever I try to describe it or give thanks I always fall short of appropriate words. 

What’s your favourite memory from the trip?

My absolute favourite memory was when the girls and I went out for dinner one night. It was no cameras, no schedule just a bunch of amazing and inspirational women talking about life and self-growth and it's then that I felt the most connected to everyone (including K&K). It was some great conversation and a really memorable time for me. 

The Bikini Series 2012 Winners at the JustFab.com shoot!

It’s the Bikini Series! The most exciting time of year for the Tone It Up team! What’s your plan of attack this time around?

This time around I have the motivation of my upcoming wedding! I've teamed up with you of course, but my goal is to be the healthiest and most fit I can be despite my injury for my wedding. It's a tall order, but an attainable goal that I'm willing to work hard to achieve and committed to fully. 

You're also getting married this year, you busy bee!  (To find out about Elle's fiancé Dan, watch this video - you will fall in love too. Trust me!) How's the planning going! 

The planning is going well!  I can't believe it, but I'm less than 3 months out! I plan on having a TON of videos on my wedding channel up and running soon to share all my wedding knowledge and plans! 

Do you have any goals for the next few months or for 2013?

YES! Sophie @sophiehowl27 showed me how to set small attainable goals to reach my full potential. My short term goals are to have my ankle surgery so that I can reach my long term goal of being able to run again! 

To someone deciding whether to join our Tone It Up Team, what would you tell them?

I would tell them that jumping full in and committing to the Tone It Up lifestyle is a FULL LIFESTYLE OVERHAUL. It will change your waistline, outlook on life, priorities, self-esteem, friendships and SO MUCH MORE for the better. If you're ready and committed to do the hard work, committing to the lifestyle is the best life decision you'll ever make!

Randoms; Just For Fun!

Favourite Fitness Related Quote? There are a few that I live by and repeat often to myself:  "life is a journey, not a destination" "change is uncomfortable" "You never regret a workout" & "the difference between a dream and a goal is determination and action"

Favourite Colour? Aqua or Pink (even before finding Tone It Up)

Favourite Pair of Shoes you own? =P my Birkenstock Sandals or my Asics GT2100

Best Place You've Ever Visited? Honestly it's a toss-up between California and this tiny island on a lake in Ontario  I used to canoe to with Rosco all the time in University. We'd camp all weekend him and I on this island of solitude in the middle of nowhere and I LOVED it.

Happiest Memory? Dancing in the living room with my Mom

Tell us a joke! The 7 dwarfs were in a tub feeling happy......so happy got out :P

Anything Else You'd Like to Say?

GEORGIE IS AMAZING AND I LOVE HER! I LOVE ALL MY TIU SISTERS!

HAHA I love you too!

Thank you so much Elle!! I loved reading this and I hope you did too! 

Do you have anyone you'd love for me to interview? Tweet me your suggestions! 

Happy Friday everybody! 

Fitspiration Friday: Bikini Series Winner Holli Berry!

It has been sooooooo long since I've posted one of these interviews! I know, I'm sorry! I LOVE doing them too so I really have no excuse! 

For those of you that are new to Camp Beach Babe, Fitspiration Friday is an old feature where I interview some of the most influential Tone It Up team members :) 

This week I got in touch with the AMAZING Holli Berry, who was one of the four Tone It Up Bikini Series winners this Summer. 

She talks about her experience in Cali, her routine and more! Check it out below! The purple is me, the blue is Holli! =D

How gorgeous is Hol!

Hey Holli! Thanks so much for doing this! First off, tell us how and when you first found Tone It Up :)

My best friend, Ashley (@ashluv77) introduced me to Tone It Up early in 2011. I jumped in on the very first Bikini Series Challenge, but didn't stick to it. Throughout the year, I did workouts here and there, but nothing consistent. It wasn't til April 1, 2012 that I basically dedicated my life to TIU. Now, I just love sharing TIU with others!

I can absolutely relate. It's addictive isn't it! Had you been working on your fitness before TIU? Did the girls inspire you to get started or give you that little extra push?

Motivation came in spurts. There were times I would work out for a few weeks and then quit. Nothing ever kept me going. Even when I would see results, I would think, 'oh my gosh, I've done so well...time to treat myself.' One treat would then lead to another and eventually, I was back where I started and all that hard work was gone. I was constantly fluctuating in weight. Sometimes I was thick, sometimes I was more on the thin side, but still never fit and happy. In March 2012 I hit a breaking point where I thought, I just can't do this anymore. I had finally hit my highest weight of 172 lbs. I was depressed and always down on myself. You can't have healthy relationships with others if you don't even have one with yourself. Seeing pictures of K&K and the transformations of other members of the community are what really pushed me.

Absolutely! I love how much of a community we are. Do you have a favourite Tone It Up workout?

Malibooty and Sunkissed Abs are both tied for my favorite TIU workotus. I love doing squats and lunges, but a lot of girls dread them. Malibooty gives you a fun way to lift and tone and make a "bootiful booty". Sunkissed Abs is similar in that sense; different ways to get true toned abs versus just crunches, which can get boring. It's fun to spice up your workouts. By doing the same routine every day, not only is your body not getting a variety to make results, but you're less likely to stick to your fitness plan.

Holli getting ready for Christmas!

Great advice! Malibooty is one of my faves too! Tone It Up workouts aside, do you have a favourite group exercise class?

I truly love spinning! I love getting lost in the music and my ride. Instructors that turn out the lights are the bomb. It's an easy way to focus on yourself and get in a major sweat. You don't notice anyone around you. I really want to try out a boxing class. I feel like that would be a blast!

I so want to try spinning! It's on my New Years Try-It List! Do you have a favourite cardio workout?

Circuits/HIIT's are number one on my list for favorite cardio. I don't like being confined to one machine, but I like being able to start my workout with a good sweat. Running outside would be my next fav. It's nice to get out and just take in everything around you; appreciate where you are.

Absolutely! I really learnt to appreciate nature when I started running! Tell us; what's on your workout playlist right now?

I use Pandora mostly, but my current station is "Salt n Peppa Radio". Love oldies that pump me up. When "Push It Real Good" comes on, you can guarantee it is about to be one amazing workout!

ROCKING the Daisy Dukes!!

'Push It' is the BEST SONG EVER!! Now, living the Tone It Up lifestyle like we do is more than just working out an eating right, it's about living a healthy lifestyle too. Tell us one of your beauty secrets!

I am obsessed with teeth! Mine, yours. Nothing is better than a pretty and clean smile. I probably brush my teeth 5-6 times a day. I carry a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and a mini thing of mouthwash in my purse. I chew gum like it's about to go out of business. Got to have fresh breath 24/7! A smile says a lot about a person. If you're around me after I eat, it's a known fact that when I am done, I am going to ask you if I have anything in my teeth. Not as much as a beauty secret as it is a beauty obsession. ;)

HAHA! This is so true though - dental hygiene is so important! What is your beauty must-have? Toothpaste hehe?

I must have lipgloss! Even chapstick works! Some kind of lip moisturizer. If I were on Survivor, that would be one of my necessity items.

Ok, toothpaste and lip gloss! Got it hehe! Are there any blogs that you look at besides the Tone It Up website to get inspiration or new workouts to get you motivated?

I look at ALL of my Tone It Up sisters blogs! I sometimes just click from page to page of fitness blogs to get my motivation. FitFluential is one I look at regularly. I even go on Pinterest and type in fitness, workouts, or inspiration and find pictures or blogs that way. 

Holli (on the left) with Laura, Elle, Karena, Sophie and Katrina on the Girls Trip to Cali!

Pinterest is amazing right? Do you have any favourite activities, besides running, to keep you active outdoors?

I love being outdoors! Hiking is the best! I enjoy getting lost in the hills/mountains, not sure where I may be going. Never been mountain biking, but I sure did bring along my bike my Daddy gave me. I finally put air in the tires, so I guess I will be taking that up soon. My boyfriend loves skiing! I would love to perfect snowboarding. I've been once, but it was an awful roll down the hill. But hey, I enjoy a good challenge.

I can just imagine! Try, try and try again right!? What are some of your favourite healthy recipes?

I love shakes! They fill you up, their refreshing. There are guilt free, holiday drinks for the winter or fruity ones for the summer. Lean, clean and green ones. Also, I love anything breakfast related. I could eat breakfast for any meal. The TIU Protein Pancake is my favorite TIU recipe. Sometimes, it comes out more as a scramble, but hey, it's still delish.

Exactly! Execution is not always important ;) You went to Cali this year!!! What did you do when you found out that you'd won?

Before they announced the winners, I stared at my computer all day, refreshing my facebook, twitter, the TIU blog, watching everyone write they were "patiently waiting". After hours, I decided to step away from my computer and watch a movie. I heard my phone beep, then another beep and eventually, that thing was going crazy! I got up and looked at my twitter, and my news feed had blown up with "Congratulations". I never even imagined I won the trip! When I opened the blog and saw my picture, I had to refresh the page, cause I just knew it wasn't right. Sure enough, I was going to Cali! My heart was racing, I was screaming and just in shock. Called my parents immediately and SCREAMED then balled my eyes out. Was the best feeling ever! I called everyone! My boyfriend didn't believe me. Took me an hour to finally calm down...at least a little bit. I don't think I ever got off that cloud.

Try not to get jealous!! This is Holli on ones of the gorgeous Cali beaches

I know!! I think I will always have that page bookmarked! Was it the absolute best girls trip ever?

It was the best trip ever, PERIOD! It was such an amazing experience. It felt like I was in a dream. We had an itinerary, so we were constantly doing something or meeting new people. I went there with three girls (Sophie, Laura, Elle) I didn't know, leaving there with three new best friends that I wouldn't trade for the world! It was nice having them to share this experience with. And Karena and Katrina...I left Cali with more than just trainers. I can't even describe how genuine they are. We honestly have the best supporting us. Just writing this is making me cry. Oh gosh, I'm pullin' an Elle.  I swear, when I got off the plane after the trip, I was like, 'wait, did that just happen?' It still to this day doesn't seem like it did.

Awwe that's so special! I can 100% believe it too! This is going to be the hardest question ever but what was your favourite memory from the trip?

Our "low key" night was the best memory. It was a personal and private evening of dinner and just six new friends hanging out. We all shared stories and got to really be ourselves. We laughed, cried. I got to see who these girls really are and why I got to be so lucky to sit amongst each one of them. Lots of fun times, inside jokes, and new memories were created from just those three days in Cali!

Oh wow! That sounds amazing! You've recently moved to a different state. How did you make your new home fit in with your new routine?

I did just move. Moved from Kentucky to Colorado. A big jump, but I made the best decision. It's been difficult adjusting my routine. Before I knew that when I was done with work, I was going to the gym. Same routine every day. So far, I haven't been working, so having a set time to wake up every single day and get my workouts in has been tough. Sometimes I go in the morning, sometimes at night. You would think that by me having all day, every day to workout, I would be rocking this bod, but even little things like cardio have been a struggle. I have mentioned many times that the altitude here has had an effect on my workouts. After finally getting into running before my move, I am now starting over. Of course, I won't let that stop me. It's just going to be more of a challenge to keep going. It'll be easier when I get back into working again.

Holli with Karena and Katrina on their JustFab shoot

Now that you're in a new home, do you have any goals for the next few months, or for 2013 in general?

Constantly setting new goals is what keeps me going. In January, I pick up my dress for my sisters wedding. I ordered a size 4, which is two sizes down than I was this past summer. I would love to be that 4 by that date, however, I won't stress and will just keep working hard if I am not there by then. Her wedding is in May, so I have time. I would also love to run two half marathons. One in the spring and the Rock n Roll half in the fall. I've never done a run before, so why not just start big!

Exactly! I'm so nervous for my half! Finally, to somebody on the fence about joining the Tone It Up team, what would you tell them?

Do it! It is so worth it and it's more than a "diet". Caring about your fitness and health becomes a lifestyle. I consider this a new way of living. K&K make working out and eating fun. We're taught to feel good about ourselves, not strive to be a certain weight. The Tone It Up Team is not even just a community to me anymore. It's my family! The support from our trainers and our fellow team members is tremendous! I don't think you can get the constant love and support we do from each other anywhere else. 

I love that!! We really are a family 

I love this haha! Holli lounging in her swag!

Here are Holli's 'Just For Fun' questions!

Favorite Fitness Related Quote?

Wake up with determination. Go to bed with satisfaction.

Favourite Color?


All shades of blue!

Favorite Pair of Shoes you own? =P


Well since it's fall, my current favorite pair are the Quynetta boots @ JustFab. Love any boots with a little heel.

Best Place You've Ever Visited?


Home. There is no place like it. Being far away makes it tough, so when I want a break from where I'm at, home is my getaway. 

Happiest Memory?


My happiest memory was my whole Cali trip. I was able to feel free and just take everything in. I didn't have a care in the world. And for the first time, I felt comfortable with myself and more happy than I had ever been! Being able to get back home and share my trip with my family, friends and all my TIU sisters was amazing! I get my happiest every time I talk about it. 

Anything Else You'd Like to Say?


Thank you! Thank you, Georgie, and for every other Tone It Up girl that has taken the time just to say hi. Some of you don't know the power you have of brightening up someone's day, just by a simple hello. I am so lucky to know such beautiful, positive women who are out there changing lives, not just in health and fitness, but in everything that you do!

BEAUTIFUL! Bikini Series Winners 2012

NO THANK YOU, HOLLI! I love yoouuuuuuuu!

You can contact Holli on Twitter (@Berry_Holli) or she has her own blog which you can access here :)

Search for 'Fitspiration' in the box to find even more interviews! I love doing these so if there are any people you would like me to get in touch with comment below! 

Love and Hugs!

Bikini Challenge 2012, Entry and Prizes!

Hello! Long time, no blog! Well it certainly feels like it after the almost three weeks of daily posts! I've accepted that life does go on after the Olympics and I'm back and ready to step up my blogging game! 

I thought it was time I shared with you my bikini series prize entry. As you know I am not shy at all when it comes to recording videos and my plan was to make one when I went on vacation to Turkey because I thought, what better way to show that I've become a Beach Babe than to record on the beach! I knew I had wifi in the villa and thought everything would work out for the best! However on arrival the wifi didn't work except for emails and luckily I was still able to enter via email (with an essay)! 

Here is my entry - enjoy!

First of all I'd like to thank you girls so much for all the hard work and effort you've put in to organising this challenge it has changed my life beyond words. 

I started this challenge in a dark place. Trapped by Body Dysmorphia disorder, I was hiding from my body and myself. I saw no way out and felt as if I was going to continue my life feeling as if my body wasn't my own. I felt fat, lonely and therefore isolated myself from my family and friends. 

It felt as if I was stuck in a maze, unable to find a way out and getting constantly frustrated with myself for getting lost. 

Tone it Up was my saving grace. 

Through the bikini challenge I was able to reconnect with my Tone it Up family and rediscover my love of fitness and taking care of myself. 

I've developed strength in more ways than one! I'm able to hold a side plank now for a long time without lowering my knee to the ground. I've also become more flexible and am able to touch my toes comfortably for the first time! All thanks to the Beach Babe DVD! 

I've also developed a new-found love for cooking. I've set it into my weekly routine to cook my friends or family a TIU approved meal and we all love it! 

The most significant part of my challenge was that I beat my challenge. I am no longer riddled with body Dysmorphia. I have worked hard to overcome my barrier. 

Now, in every corner of the maze my TIU sisters are there guiding me to the exit. Helping me, just as I aspire to help them. I can happily and honestly say that I love my body. I will forever be indebted to TIU for that!

In total during the challenge I lost 16lbs and 6 inches =D

I know it's brief but I was concerned about the word limit as I had no way to check it on my iPhone!! 

The next thing I knew, one Thursday morning I woke up to discover that little old me had been selected as one of the Runners Up! I was shocked beyond words. I never enter anything that the Tone It Up girls put on to win, I enter to let them know how they've impacted my life, again and again and again. The main prize for me this Spring was falling in love with my body again so I was so shocked and humbled to be chosen as a winner!

Then, after an agonising wait I arrived home from my second vacation in Spain to this package!! Ahh! It was incredible! I'm still grinning! 

My Prize (and the Borelli scarf! I forgot to put it in the pic!)

Naturally, as it's me, I had to record a video with all my new swag! (Thanks to my sister for filming hehe!)

As I mentioned in the video, unfortunately my Tarte Bronzer was smashed in transit so I scoured the internet and found a soloution to fix it! I was so excited (and it took me back to my High School Science days hehe!) It was really easy, a tiny bit messy but it worked!

First off, take your smashed powder and smash it even more! I used a nail stick to do it. Make it as fine a powder as you can! You need to do this to get rid of all the lumps and bumps!

Next take the bottle in your house that has the highest percentage of alcohol in it! For me, it was vodka and it worked really well so I'd reccomend it! Pour a little into the lid and very very carefully start pouring it in to the case whilst mixing the powder and the vodka with the nail stick until you have created a paste. It is really important that you don't let it turn into a liquid! Keep the mixture quite thick.

Next, take some toilet paper or a tissue, fold it in half and press down on your paste with the tissue. This makes the top smooth and as similar to the original product as it could be.

Then, wait overnight (at least) to give the alcohol time to evapourate and voila! Your smashed powder compact has magically repaired!

That's it for now! 

Speak soon! 

Georgie xxx

Bikini Series Celebration

It's official. I'm the worst blogger ever. I'm so sorry!! I've not even got a real excuse other than I was kind of lost for inspiration for a while. All my exams are now over, I'm on Summer vacation, I'm working a lot but I still have time to blog!! 

Starting tomorrow there will be a lot more activity on the blog - I promise!! 

I'm so so so so so sorry!! 

To tide you over, here is a video I made to celebrate the end of the Tone It Up bikini series! (I'll do another post on that soon!)

Georgia <3

Beach Babe Interview: Winner of the Spring Challenge 2011 - Kate Bear

Hi everyone! Welcome to the first of what will hopefully be many interviews conducted with what I think are some of the most influential members of our Tone It Up Team. 

I've been fortunate enough to make fantastic friends with amazing women through Tone It Up and I hope through these interviews I can pass on some of the ways they've inspired me on to you - my readers! 

Today's interview is with Kate Bear. Kate was the winner of the Spring Into Bikini Series Challenge in 2011 and her prize was a trip to California to live the Tone It Up life! 

In this interview Kate talks to us about everything from her trip to Cali to her beauty regime to the now infamous BMoreToned group! Check it out! 

Kate with Karena and Katrina

- Hey Kate! Thanks so much for doing this, how did you first find Tone It Up and when?

I actually kind of stumbled on Tone It Up when I was doing research for one of my clients. At the time, I worked for an agency who had a few athletic apparel clients. Being in charge of one such company’s social media presence, I was constantly looking for something fun and fit to share with their audience. One day, a friend of mine who loves working out shared a Tone It Up workout and I immediately fell in love. Katrina and Karena’s upbeat, fun attitudes. The awesome workout moves. The delicious sounding recipes. The more I explored their website from this one little workout I was passed, the more I knew I was going to love Tone It Up! That was probably around March of 2011 and I’ve been a TIU girl ever since. J

Kate recently on Valentines Day

- Had you been on a fitness journey before then or did finding Tone It Up motivate you?

That’s tricky. I was…but it was a failing one. Basically, I thought I was doing ok but I knew deep down that I really wasn’t. I needed TIU. They were the kick in the butt I needed to really get myself going on the journey I’m on now toward a healthier, more toned me. J

Kate and some of BMore Toned after running a 5k

- How did you find out you'd won the Bikini Challenge and what was the very first thing you did (besides jumping up and down and screaming!)?

I was, of course, waiting with bated breath once they announced the date they were picking the winner. To be honest, I was up against such amazing women, I really didn’t think I stood a chance. Unfortunately, it was actually an extremely busy work day for me so I was tied to projects most of the day. I didn’t get a ton of time to chat with the team online but I get some TIU updates right to my phone and once I started seeing the “Congratulations to the winner!” messages, I threw down everything and watched the announcement video. I was speechless. The jumping up and down and screaming part came much later when it hit me a little harder. Hahaha I immediately told my coworker Annie (who I had just convinced to join the TIU team) and we had a little freak out in the office. I called my boyfriend. I called my mom. I called my best friend, Emma (who ended up going to California with me). I felt so lucky. So blessed. So proud of what I’d done for myself. It was honestly one of the most exciting and indescribable feelings I’ve ever had. J

(and yes, apparently I’m going to end all of these answers with a happy face hahaha) 

- Was it the most awesome thing ever to go to California? (I'm so jealous!)

Yes. There are no other words but YES. J

Beautiful Kate in a beautiful outfit!

- What was the best part about your trip?

Seriously? Is this really a question? How in the world do you expect me to answer this? Haha We did SO MUCH…there’s really no way to break it down to the “best” part. But if you’re going to force me, I’d probably have to say working out with Karena and Katrina. We see them every week in videos and photos and updates and you feel like you get to know them. But you really don’t get to enjoy that back and forth. Not only did I get to hang out with them for a few days, we got to workout with them one on one. We did some cool stuff while we were in California, but that was definitely the coolest. J

Kate and her friend Emma with Karena and Katrina after a workout

- Is Karena as tall in person as she looks online hehe?

Hahaha actually yes. She’s an Amazon-like beauty. Karena and Katrina both are even more beautiful than they are online. Seriously. But the cool thing about them is that, even though they’re models and ridiculously pretty, they’re HEALTHY pretty. They aren’t bone thin. They are fit and toned and healthy. (And tall…well, at least Karena). J

- What's your favorite TIU workout and why?

The ladies have come up with a ton of great new workouts but I think my favorites will always be the Itty Bitty Bikini and the Bikini Strap workouts. They are two of the first workouts I got when I was in the Bikini Challenge and they’ve just stuck with me. The moves are solid and really work you (me) where you (I) need it. Plus, I love them (and pretty much all of the TIU workouts) because they’re quick. Like most of the girls on the team, I work. And over the past year, I’ve really upped my work load and responsibilities causing me to work even more. AKA much less time left to workout and stay fit. Having these short workouts really helps me stay on the ball. If I have time, I’ll do cardio and a few rounds of 1-3 of their routines. BUT If I don’t have time, I know I can still fit in at least 1-2 sets of one workout. I really strive to stay active every day and these workouts help me do that. J

How can you not love her?

- What's your go-to cardio machine at the gym? Why?

Hmm…none. Wait, I guess I can’t say that. Here’s the thing…I’ve never tried to make it a secret but I honestly hate cardio. Hahaha I always have. (although don’t tell anyone, but TIU is starting to change that…what? Who said that?)

I guess if I had to choose it would be the treadmill. But not because I like it. Hahaha Here’s another reason I love the TIU girls – they’ve helped me overcome my fear/hatred (well maybe not completely over the hatred) of the treadmill. With their HIIT workouts, I don’t get as bored on the machine, which a lot of times is my main issue. I like to switch it up if I’m on there – HIIT, run/walk/shuffle step, etc. It makes it less tedious and helps me feel like my cardio is done faster (and most of the time I burn more calories!).

Looking gorgeous in Hawaii!

- Tell us about BMore Toned!

Well, BMOREtoned is our little local group of Tone It Up ladies. It started out small. Sarah (@i_will_overcome) and Jami (@jamijoytiu) realized they were in the same area…then I realized we were so close. Then I brought my coworker Annie (@annietruax) then we gained Caitlin (@cait58TIU) then Lauren (@BmoreLC), Molly (@mbakes2123), Brittany (@beermeamartini) and Mary (@aznstarlette). To be honest, I’m not sure what the order was of everyone joining but it doesn’t matter. It feels like I’ve known these girls forever and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  They really have become some of my best friends and inspirations. We work out at least once a week together on Friday mornings and sometimes more than that, depending on schedules. And what’s cooler is that, over time, we’ve evolved our workout format. We used to just get together and say “ok…so what should we do?” Hahaha Funny, right? Most recently, we choose one or two girls to develop a workout for the week and we go with that. That way we don’t blabber away and we work hard to get our sweat on. J BUT, because we need to blabber away, we get together at non-workout times and hang out. We have holiday and seasonal dinners. It’s really fun. Like knowing everyone on the TIU team, it’s really been a blessing in my life to get to know and become friends with these 

girls. J

Kate with the BMore Toned crew!

- Do you have a favourite group exercise class?

Yes! I love love LOVE CXWORX. This is a core class created by Les Mills and put on at my local gym, Merritt Athletic Club. It’s a 30 minute core class that really rocks your socks off. They really strive to reinforce the fact that YOUR CORE IS NOT JUST YOUR ABS. Of course you work your abs, but you work so much more – your back, your legs, your chest, your arms, etc. It’s a really great (and again, quick) class! J

- We know that TIU are about living a healthy lifestyle as well as working out and eating right. So you've got to look good too! What's your beauty must have?

Lotion. I’m all about skin. That being said, I have scars and acne and run into things all the time and I by no means have beautiful, flawless skin. Hahaha BUT, I do know it is important. I love St. Ives Collagen Elastin for my body. It has this amazing fresh smell like fresh cut grass or some sort of herbal remedy. It’s really soothing in the morning. I also have this Ponds rejuvenating lotion that I use under my eyes and on my face and neck every day. It’s definitely a beauty must have for me. J

- You always look so smiley and glowy! Tell us one of your beauty secrets!

Awww! First of all, thanks! I really appreciate that. I’ve always loved that quote from Audrey Hepburn “I believe that happy girls are the prettiest.” Smile. Smile a lot. It really doesn’t hurt. And it makes your (and often everyone else’s day) at least a little better. J (ßsometimes I do too much, as you can tell my incessant smiley faces)

- What are your favorite songs to workout too?

Oooh that’s a good one. Although there’s often a new song that comes out every month or so that I add, I have a pretty standard list. My current top faves are:

Jay Z – On to the next one

Foster the People – Call it what you want

Rihanna – S&M

Girl Talk – Oh no/Get it get it (most things Girl Talk)

Lady Gaga – Born this way

And, a new favorite, MSTERKRFT – Bounce

The Beautiful Kate

- Anyone who follows you on Twitter will know that you love Pin Ups - what do you love about them?

I find them beautiful and inspiring. I’m not sure what drew me to them in the first place but I just adore them. They’re playful and sexy but powerful in their own way. Plus I think the other reason I’m so drawn to them is because I LOVE the retro style. ADORE it to be honest. Sometimes I can find cute things in today’s fashion world but there are just so many amazing shapes and colors and styles we’ve abandoned that I see on pinups. And the hairstyles…don’t even get me started. J  

- Do you have any favourite websites or blogs (besides Tone It Up) that you visit to get some inspiration/motivation/or just for fun!

Oh definitely. There are SO many amazingly inspiring women out there online – it’s hard to not find inspiration/motivation! A few of my favorites are Eating Bird Food, MizFit Online, Peanut Butter Fingers, to name a few. But, I’m definitely loving the teams behind our women’s fitness magazine’s social teams. They really are stepping up their game and providing engaging conversation and healthy tips. Women’s Health, Fitness, Women’s Running, Health, FitSugar, etc. They are always on top of it. J 

- What are some of your favourite healthy recipes?

Hmm…there are ton! It’s hard to pick favorites. Recently, I was introduced to this amazing salad by BMOREtoned friend Molly and I seriously make it for everything. It’s amazingly delicious and healthy. I also love stuffed peppers. They are so tasty and you can pack them with whatever! I think my favorite combo has been peppers stuffed with turkey, fresh corn, onions, and a little low fat cheese. SO good. (I’ll let you in on a little Kate secret – the key to a delicious stuffed pepper is mixing in an egg white into your stuffing mix. It helps keep everything together and makes it a little fluffier when you’re done). J

Kate loves the glamour of Pin Up Girls - I can relate!! 

- To someone just joining Tone It Up or starting the New Year off with health goals - what would you say to them? What advice would you give?

Get involved with the team. They are your BEST asset, tool, inspiration, motivation, friend, sister, etc. in your journey. No matter what kind of day you’re having, they are there for you. If you just need to say you feel flubbery (we all feel that way), talk to them. If you need to get it off your chest that you hate how work has kept you all week and you just need a cookie to forget about the stress, talk to them. Despite being some 50,000 strong, we are a close knit group. J

Also, set an alarm for your booty call workout. The early morning is daunting, I know. But do it. It will be the best thing you ever do for yourself. Start slow – do a quick workout for 1-2 sets. It really only takes about 10-15 minutes. Then add on another set. Then try a longer workout. And so on. You’ll gradually build up you “morning person”-ness and it will come naturally. Those extra minutes mean more than you could ever imagine. J

- Anything else you want to say?

As always, thanks again to this team. You really have been one of the greatest, if not THE greatest (sorry, Tom – love you J ) thing in my life and I cannot ever stop thanking you for helping me start and continue this journey to a better me. <3 

I LOVE this picture hehe!

Thank you so much Kate!! If it's possible we love you even more now!! Thank you on behalf of all of the Tone It Up Team for being such a huge inspiration! Sending big hugs from Camp Beach Babe!

You can contact Kate on her Twitter page - @KateKateBear

Who else would you like to see interviewed? Email me with your suggestions as well as question suggestions! This is going to be a regular thing from here on out :)