Thursday 31st July 2008 - Week Two Day Four Global Health Challenge - Intention VS Action

I have been discussing with professional friends this week many of the different reasons that seem to appear to be "blocking" others who desire success from reaching that successful outcome with their health results.

Remember that effort = result.
We all have aspects of our lives that need to take a priority at certain times through circumstances that we don't always have control over however this will always happen in our lives. Nothing is set in stone so allow some flexibility but don't just give up.

For most people around the world while the intent to meet their personal health goals is pure, it is the actions they choose that don't always match and sometimes in fact are a hinderance leading to a definite failure.

Here are some examples to think about.

You know the person that trains hard at the gym most days of the week to improve their physique but clearly is not getting the optimum results they could be because of their nutritional intake or social habits. So they train more often or longer. They are probably either eating whatever they desire without regard for its nutrient or caloric value because in their mind "I train so I can eat or drink whatever I want" ... WRONG = Failure.

They lead a highly social life that starts on Friday afternoon and ends on Sunday afternoon. While I don't judge anyone for the life they choose, I do caution you of the impact that it will have on your success result and in fact I have had people do plans before and complain they didn't achieve what had been indicated.

A short conversation with them leads us BOTH to discover and be enlightened that they really hadn't been doing what I had "prescribed" but rather modifying it to suit their social capabilities and desires. To each his own - but don't blame me.

One of my greatest puzzles when it comes to health is the person (male or female) who is totally committed to their cardio training on a daily basis to support their dieting habits but then smokes cigarettes. Really does putting the "poisons" in your Human Eco System that are doing you confirmed harm balance out the exercise to meet calorie intake or deficit ?? Wake up !!!! Wrong = Failure.

So how can you match your intent with your actions?
The first step is to have a plan that outlines all of YOUR responsibilities. Then follow through with ALL the elements and not just the ones that suit you. Those that are too hard shouldn't be dropped but rather find a way to make them less hard and in fact adjust your "attitood compass" to make them palatable.

Remember I have already committed to YOU with this plan to assist get the health results you seek and so YOU need to do what is necessary for YOU to get the results YOU desire.

With minor adjustments all the "perceived" issues can become less of "excuses or personal roadblocks" and more of "personal success achievements" when you confront and concur them.

One of my favorite sayings is "Have the courage to finish what you start !" It's YOUR Body - it's YOUR Life.

Global Health Challenge - Week Two (8 week Overview reposted in earlier blog)

Points to focus on for Week Two :
Goal of this week is to begin to fine tune the Plan and focus on the end result – New YOU
- Reduce alcohol completely from your life for the duration of the E.C.O. System Plan
- Reduce your caffeine intake to one cup per day (if applicable)
- Increase your fibre intake with salads and vegetables
- Increase H20 (water) to 8 glasses per day- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

TONY 's DIARY - (Week Two - Day Four)

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Mid morning:Cup of Coffee + Skim milk

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Cottage Cheese + Tomato + Cucumber + Strawberries + Water + 150g Almonds

Mid Afternoon snack:
Energy Smoothie - 400ml water + 30g Protein Powder + Comination Greens Powder

Evening Workout - Pump Class 45 mins + 15 Mins Hard Cardio Rower

Dinner:
Grilled Salmon + Mixed Leaves + Tomato + Broccolli + Cauliflour + Carrot + Baked Potato Chips. Dessert - None

2 Hours before bedFibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - I again consumed enough water for the day - this is getting easier to do.
Again completed hard workout for lean muscle conditioning and cardio fitness.

Daily mantra :
I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Wednesday 30th July 2008 - Week Two Day Three - Global Health Challenge

One thing that I have noticed about this time that I am doing the Challenge is that I am trying to increase my "cooking knowledge" and not just moving from the BBQ to the Grilling Pan but have started to explore the Oven ... yes I know, who would have thought.

Tomorrow I will post a Lamb Stew that I made and it was actually easier than I thought and those who have tasted it say it's good. When you make things for yourself more often than not you will eat them just because you have cooked them but wouldnt serve them to friends but this was good (recipe tomorrow).

So apart from cooking with the oven I am still focussing on baking. Hey I have to have my vices too you know.

With my training, I have definitely noticed a gain in strength with my workouts to the point that next week I am planning on challenging the intensity on some days and the duration on others. Remember your human machine has the ability to adapt to neuromuscular changes quite quickly which means that constant evolution is paramount for increased gains.

Bottom line is that you need to make modifications to the effort to continue to see results !

Global Health Challenge - Week Two (8 week Overview reposted in earlier blog)

Points to focus on for Week Two :
Goal of this week is to begin to fine tune the Plan and focus on the end result – New YOU
- Reduce alcohol completely from your life for the duration of the E.C.O. System Plan
- Reduce your caffeine intake to one cup per day (if applicable)
- Increase your fibre intake with salads and vegetables
- Increase H20 (water) to 8 glasses per day- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

TONY 's DIARY - (Week Two - Day Three)

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Mid morning:
Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + 4 x Corn Thins with Lean Ham

Lunch:
Chicken and Salad + Water + 150g Almonds

Mid Afternoon snack:
Energy Smoothie - 400ml water + 30g Protein Powder + Comination Greens Powder

Evening Workout - Pump Class 45 mins + 15 Mins Hard Cardio Rower

Dinner:
Grilled Salmon + Mixed Leaves + Tomato + Broccolli + Cauliflour + Carrot + Baked Potato Chips. Dessert - None

2 Hours before bed
Fibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - I again consumed enough water for the day - this is getting easier to do.
Again completed hard workout for lean muscle conditioning and cardio fitness.

Daily mantra :
I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Tuesday July 2008 - My Diary Week Two Day Two - Global Health Challenge

I have been getting quite a few emails this week from people who are doing the Global Health Challenge and feeling not only more energy but also seeing a change in their attitude (attitood) to LIFE.

This happens when you commit to yourself on a plan that YOU believe in. It then takes constant management of that new compass direction heading to maintain it and remain on the path as there will be "obstacles" that appear and also try to divert you from success.

For those that are interested I have now dubbed myself NOT the Naked Chef (that is already taken and besides food sometimes splatters - sheeshhh), but rather the Lazy Chef. I am not a trained chef and learning as I go but don't want to be in the kitchen preparing for hours - that is not me, hence the Lazy Chef tag.

I am trying to get recipes that are easy and still taste good. The recipe for the Turkey and CousCous Rissoles will be added tomorrow. This was easy and tasted great so give it a go and if you have any to add then please email me tonyfindlay2008@gmail.com


Global Health Challenge - Week Two (8 week Overview reposted in earlier blog)
Points to focus on for Week Two :

Goal of this week is to begin to fine tune the Plan and focus on the end result – New YOU
- Reduce alcohol completely from your life for the duration of the E.C.O. System Plan
- Reduce your caffeine intake to one cup per day (if applicable)
- Increase your fibre intake with salads and vegetables
- Increase H20 (water) to 8 glasses per day- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

TONY 's DIARY - (Week Two - Day Two)

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana / Berries. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Morning Workout - Pump Class 45 mins

Mid morning:
Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Protein Bar (40g protein / 8g carbs)

Lunch:
Wrap with Chicken and Salad + Water

Mid Afternoon snack:
Energy Smoothie - 400ml water + 30g Protein Powder + Comination Greens Powder

Dinner:
Grilled Turkey and Cous Cous Rissoles (that I made) + Mixed Leaves + Tomato + Baked Potato Chips. Dessert - Last piece of Citrus Almond Cake that I baked with low fat cream

2 Hours before bedFibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - I again consumed enough water for the day.
Again completed hard workout for lean muscle conditioning. Tomorrow focus is on Cardio.

Daily mantra :
I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Monday 28th July 2008 - Week Two Day One - Global Health Challenge

The simplicity of the program seems to be appealing to a lot of people and that is what it is designed to be. We don't need more confusion but most people want direction with guidelines. That is what this program is designed to provide ... along with awesome results.

Make sure you are doing all the necessary workouts (3 x per week). I was asked by a reader of this blog why I am working out nearly every day. Remember that the minimum effort each week to YOUR "Result Land" is three times but for those that want a bigger result then work out as often as you can. Take a rest day if you need it or lower the intensity on one or two days if you are over three times.

Now for someone who is already lean and healthy, making further improvements is that much harder and requires even more effort and fine-tuning. I say this so that you get a sense of my personal commitment plus it explains why I am doing hard workouts for both lean muscle conditioning and cardio.

I'm also an Spin Instructor and need to fuel up accordingly and also to respect how my body is feeling. This level of challenge works for everyone from the "returning to exercise", or for the "fitness challenged, the "weekend warrior" or even the "professional fitness instructor".

Now to be clear it's not a bodybuilding nutrition or exercise plan. It is designed to prolong life through sound nutrition, increased activity to lower the incidence of diseases like Diabetes, Cancer and Obesity.

Global Health Challenge - Week Two (8 week Overview reposted in earlier blog)

Points to focus on for Week Two :
Goal of this week is to begin to fine tune the Plan and focus on the end result – New YOU
- Reduce alcohol completely from your life for the duration of the E.C.O. System Plan
- Reduce your caffeine intake to one cup per day (if applicable)
- Increase your fibre intake with salads and vegetables
- Increase H20 (water) to 8 glasses per day
- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

TONY 's DIARY - (Start of Week Two)

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana / Berries. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Morning Workout - Spin Class 45 mins Hard Cardio.
Needed to drink loads of water during this class as once we started it got warm real quick !!

Mid morning:
Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Protein Bar (40g protein / 8g carbs)

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Tuna + Cous Cous + Tomato + Cucumber + Pear + 4 x corn thins with hommous

Mid Afternoon snack:
Energy Smoothie - 400ml water + 30g Protein Powder + Comination Greens Powder

Evening Workout - Pump Class - wasn't going to do this but it was so cold in my apartment that I knew that one way to get warm would be to workout - and it was.

Dinner:
Grilled Chicken Breast + Mixed Leaves + Tomato + Broccolli + Cauliflower + Low Fat Cottage Cheese. Dessert - Piece of Citrus Almond Cake (I baked) with low fat cream

2 Hours before bed
Fibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - I again consumed enough water for the day. Again completed hard workout with my cardio.

Daily mantra :
I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Why did I develop the Global Health Challenge ?

I wanted to give an overview of how the next fifty six (56) days or eight (8) weeks of life changing habits is undertaken.

Instead of just implementing a life stopping plan as most DIETS are, that will only have short term potential and limited results, I wanted to explore how we could actually make life changing habits that last and still get you the body you desire.

The issue with any plan that just has short term gains is that when you ‘re-enter” your life patterns, you will probably go back to your old unhealthy habits and you will have wasted your time, and probably your money as most quick fix schemes are designed to make someone else rich.

It’s time for a change.
So this plan is for FREE. All it takes is your commitment and time.

Here is the real reason that it will work like no other plan.
Unless you start to either understand or relate to your body and how it functions you will continue to make the same errors, mistakes and failures that have plagued your fat loss goals from the past. We need to remove, replace and reprogram those failure causing habits.

So what did I do ?
I met and worked with some of the leading behaviour change experts from around the world and they all have the same issues with diets or exercise programs. Any “elimination plan” that doesn’t create behaviour change isn’t going to last.

Taking that understanding onboard I wanted to create a plan that used sensible and sustainable ways that will change your life and give you some knowledge that increases your ability to make better choices. This is the foundation to life changing results and the basis of YOUR Human ECO System.

So what is our plan ?
It is a 56 day program. Much like an 8 Step Life Changing Plan or 12 Step Habit Busting Plan.
By taking the first four (4) weeks of my plan to reduce and replace the elements of your life that impact your health or are detrimental to your goal, and slowly replacing them with better options YOU begin to not only notice the changes but YOU are 100% responsible for making them.

Is this plan easy ?
If you are asking this question you are not ready to do this. The reason that some plans fail to work for you is that you don’t stay committed. You don’t finish them and then wonder why they didn’t work. It’s like only completing half the race and wondering why you don’t get a “finishing medal”.

This plan is not meant to be easy, it is meant to work and last.
The duration is 56 days (8 weeks) which isn’t a long time to see fantastic results and save YOUR own life by making changes you can understand and always implement.

Are you worth it ?

NOTES :

With any suggested lifestyle changing program it is recommended that you seek a full medical clearance before undertaking this or any health program. The information supplied is done on an information basis and not meant to replace any medical advice given by a medical specialist.

If you are unsure whether this will suit you take it to your medical / health specialist and have them see if it is going to be complimentary to your current lifestyle.

Overview of the 8 weeks - Global Health Challenge

OVERVIEW OF THE EIGHT WEEKS FOR THE HUMAN E.C.O. SYSTEM PLAN

Week One -

Goal of this week is begin to eliminate all the unnecessary elements of your nutrition intake that have been causing the problems to your health status. Let’s GO !

- Reduce alcohol intake to weekend only
- Replace white foods to whole grains
- Reduce fat intake with low fat / no fat options
- Increase H20 (water) intake to 6 glasses per day
- Introduce the three (3) days of activity with the AFTERBURNER Workouts to your routine

Week Two -

Goal of this week is to begin to fine tune the Plan and focus on the end result – New YOU

- Reduce alcohol completely from your life for the duration of the E.C.O. System Plan
- Reduce your caffeine intake to one cup per day (if applicable)
- Increase your fibre intake with salads and vegetables
- Increase H20 (water) to 8 glasses per day
- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

Week Three -

Goal of this week is to consolidate the first two (2) weeks of life changing habits – Well done so far.

- Reduce caffeine intake to green tea or better yet none
- Reduce your intake of starch and grains to wholemeal versions
- Maintain H20 (water) intake to 8 glasses per day
- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

Week Four -

Goal of this week is to consolidate the first three (3) weeks of life changing habits – Half way !

- Reduce your dairy intake
- Reduce intake of red meat and replace to white fish
- Maintain the three (3) days of activity – add an additional “family fun day” on the weekend
- Maintain H20 (water) intake to 8 glasses per day

Week Five – ECO Cleanse Week – the Challenge.

Goal of this week is to use the next seven (7) days as the “detox period for an internal eco-cleanse”

- Day one =

- Day two =

- Day three =

- Day four = These 7 Days are broken down and supplied in earlier blog

- Day five =

- Day six =

- Day seven =


NOTE - They say it takes only 21 days to form a life changing habit. Then this is your time as that is how many days are left.

Goal of this next twenty one (21) days or three (3) weeks are designed to consolidate the first 5 weeks and to now being to establish patterns for your new LIFE.


Week Six – Think of what you want to re-introduce and the impact it will have.

This is the first week after the ECO Cleanse so give yourself credit. YOU are only 21 days from completing a major milestone in your life.

+

Week Seven - Its so close !

This is the last 14 days of the life changing plan. Think how differently you are feeling (and looking) with the choices that you have made and are NOW making.

+

Week Eight - The final few days of your plan – WELL DONE !

This is the last 7 days of the life changing plan and now you must make some decisions. Are you going to go back to your old way of unhealthy eating and living ? This last 56 days can be the catalyst for a NEW YOU or just a slightly improved version – YOU decide.


So now you have everything you need to get started.

Are YOU ready to finally take charge of your health ?
Are YOU ready to get ECO-friendly with your body once and for all ?


Then the Human E.C.O. System Plan has been designed for YOU

ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS TAKE THE NEXT 56 DAYS TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE !!!

Sunday 27th July 2008 - End of Week One aka Day Seven - Global Health Challenge

Well that went pretty fast and without too much pain involved.

A good point was raised about my blog titles to include the Global Health Challenge for those joining us late. Remember you can start this anytime you choose which is how it has been designed because we don't all arrive at the bus stop / train station / airport of "life change decisions" at the same time.

So it has reinforced to me the value of log keeping. I have been far less inclined to snack or just fill in time with a coffee when my body actually is craving nutrients. I have also been less inclined to make bad choices and although these are rare for me, I am human and they do happen.

The video's are coming for those that have sent me email requests for those so I hope I don't disappoint :-)))

I am shooting and editing this myself on my laptop, is that a multi-tasking skill or just further signs of my A.D.D. personality ? As well as doing this I am also writing my next screenplay for my other business so time is my only enemy but will try to find some focus time for this.

Just wanted to say that was a little sad for Cadell Evans as he is again second in the Tour De France but next year watch out world but the Wallabies Rugby Union team gave the All Blacks a textbook defeat on Saturday night so it's looking good for the return Bledisloe Cup match.

Global Health Challenge - Week Two (I will repost the 8 week Overview today)

Points to focus on for Week Two :
Goal of this week is to begin to fine tune the Plan and focus on the end result – New YOU

- Reduce alcohol completely from your life for the duration of the E.C.O. System Plan
- Reduce your caffeine intake to one cup per day (if applicable)
- Increase your fibre intake with salads and vegetables
- Increase H20 (water) to 8 glasses per day
- Maintain the three (3) days of activity


TONY 's DIARY - Day Six (Sunday or end of Week One)

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Morning Workout - Got up late so I again did the Pump Class (weights were normal) and then did 10 mins (Hard) Cardio on Rower - again focussing on technique and this time did 1 minute Intervals of fast speedwork then 1 minute of slower pace. Needed to drink loads of water after this which is never a bad thing

Mid morning:
2 x Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Protein Bar (40g protein / 8g carbs)

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Tuna + Crushed Almonds + Tomato + Low Fat Cottage Cheese + Cucumber + Pear

Mid Afternoon snack:

Energy Smoothie - 400ml water + 30g Protein Powder + Comination Greens Powder

Dinner:
Grilled Salmon with herbs + Sweet Potato + Zucchini + Broccolli + Cauliflower.
Dessert - Piece of Citrus Almond Cake (I baked again) with low fat cream

2 Hours before bedFibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - I again consumed enough water for the day. Again completed hard workout. Energy levels were a little lower today so took it easy. Really looking forward to next week and focussing on result.

Daily mantra :
I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Saturday 26th July 2008 - My Diary Day Six

After having a day off training yesterday I felt really good when I woke up so walked to the gym for an early morning class. Used this not only as a warm-up but the chance to burn a few extra calories and do my little part for the environment.

I had decided to push myself a little in the class today as I had had yesterday exercise free. This is a great thing to do when you have some recovery time like weekends. You could pick a few exercises and just do a little more effort than normal which is a great way of increasing both fitness and results.

Looking forward to end of first week and knowing that there is just over 49 days to go .......

TONY 's DIARY - Day Six (Saturday)

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Morning Workout - Pump Class (increased weights over normal) and then did 10 mins (Hard) Cardio on Rower

Mid morning:
2 x Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Protein Bar (40g protein / 8g carbs)

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Tuna + Crushed Almonds + Tomato + Low Fat Cottage Cheese + Cucumber + Pear

Mid Afternoon snack:
Energy Smoothie - 400ml water + 30g Protein Powder + Comination Greens Powder

Weekend Treat - Went to the Movies - Consumed large water with my Choc Top Ice Cream

Dinner: Mixed Leaves + Grilled Lamb Loin + Carrots + Tomato + Broccolli + Cauliflower.
Dessert - None tonight as had treat at Movies

2 Hours before bed
Fibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - I again consumed enough water for the day but as it was the weekend I did have a few social coffee's and went to the Movies and always have ice cream so no big deal to the plan but also had already completed hard workout. Easy night at home watching football on TV and Tour de France (Go Cadell Evans)

Daily mantra :I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Friday 25th July - My Diary Day Five - No Exercise Day

Okay now I wanted to show you how that some days just like you - LIFE - will get involved in your plans and change them and before you know you need to be thinking ahead for your goal to maintain quality nutrient intake.

I had planned to spend the day writing content from home on my next movie script and everything was going to be easy. Everything I needed to eat was there and I would write for about four to five hours then do a workout to clear my head, then get back to some more writing.

But at 9am I received a call that requried I attend a business meeting regarding an upcoming proposal which was scheduled for an hour and I knew could easily go over time. I had already consumed my Energy Shake so knew that I had enough quality nutrients in my system for about three (3) hours so I had to plan ahead just in case. Heading into the city I grabbed a Protein Energy Bar and put it in my bag. Lucky because the meeting did go over.

In fact the meeting went much longer than planned and so I got home for a late lunch which I could control and also I had consumed the Energy Bar with some water during the meeting. I wanted to get some writing done so I decided to make today an Exercise Free Day - which meant that I had need to consume any additional calories so instead of my mid afternoon snack energy shake I just ate a green apple.

In discussing with some friends this week about the Challenge I was asked did I ever get sick of the same breakfast each day and as I look at this as setting up a solid base of nutrient foundation for the day - the answer is no. Besides I actually like the taste and feel positive knowing what is happening.

Dinner was the remaining Turkey rissoles so I had better get some cooking done over the weekend and try some new recipes. Stay strong we have nearly done one week.

TONY 's DIARY - Day Five

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Mid morning:
Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Protein Bar

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Hommous + Chicken Breast + Crushed Almonds + Tomato

Mid Afternoon snack:
Green Apple

Workout Free Day

Dinner: Leftover Turkey and CousCous Rissoles + Steamed Vegetables (Broccolli / Carrots / Tomato). Dessert - None tonight

2 Hours before bedFibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - I again consumed enough water for the day and have cut down on my social coffee's by carrying around water bottle with me and even drank more than I had planned.

Daily mantra :I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Thursday 24th July 2008 - My Diary Day Four + Almond Citrus Cake Recipe

Just so that I can allay any concerns about the eating plan that is provided in the Challenge as someone commented on my Diary being different. The plan I have supplied is fine for anyone as it reduces overall unnecessary calories and re-introduces quality nutrients and yes this is fine for everyone !

I have modified my plan to suit both my tastes and also my time-poor lifestyle. I like the ease of a morning shake and so do it cause it works to get me results and it also takes less than a minute. I plan to film that this weekend to show you how easy it is.

I know that I am "quick to act" mentality so for me, once I make a decision staying with it is easy. For others it is a constant battle. If you are like that you will need to adjust what you do to fit in with your plan but for me, monotony of the same foods and types doesn't affect me. If it get's the result I aim for then so be it. That is just me.

I am receiving great feedback from people who are also doing the Global Health Challenge and feeling positive about their efforts to day which is fantastic but get ready for the first test - the weekend.

I find this "test" happens whenever people make a conscious choice regarding making a life changing decision and nothing is more important than your health but being social is hard to do when others want you to be a certain way and do things not on your plan.
It's YOUR BODY -It's YOUR LIFE.

At bottom of blog is the recipe I found for the cake. Now I have a piece each day as reward for ongoing commitment and I love dessert so that is my "sin of preference". This is a Diabetic approved recipe which means that anyone (apart from the Gluten Intolerant can eat it). Enjoy.

TONY 's DIARY - Day Four

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Frozen Banana. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Mid morning:Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Protein Bar (was out at meetings so planned ahead)

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Hommous + Tin of Tuna + Crushed Almonds + Tomato

Mid Afternoon snack - Cup of Coffee + Skim milk
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 20g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder (no fruit)

Afterburner Workout - I did this and tried to work hard on both elements for 30 mins.
Cardio component 20 mins on Treadmill (Intervals) + 10 mins (hard cardio) on Rower

Dinner: Leftover Turkey and CousCous Rissoles + Steamed Vegetables (Broccolli / Carrots / Tomato). Dessert - None tonight

2 Hours before bed
Fibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - Workouts are going well and I'm feeling strong. I again consumed enough water for the day and have cut down on my social coffee's by carrying around water bottle with me.

Daily mantra :
I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

I cooked this so that I had a treat for the next few days. Recipe for Almond Citrus Cake.

125g low fat spread
1/3 cup castor sugar
2 eggs
1 cup wholemeal self raising flour
1/3 cup almond meal
1/4 cup orange juice
zest of lemon and orange

Preheat Oven to 160 degrees
Spray or line pan (I used a loaf pan and worked okay)
Mix low fat spread, sugar, lemon and orange zest until pale and creamy
Add eggs (1 at a time), mixing well after each one
Fold in flour, almond meal, orange juice until combined
Spread mixture into pan
Bake 20-25 mins

Serve with Low Fat Yoghurt on top. Enjoy

Suggestion - this wasnt in the recipe but I spoke to a friend and she told me to get the juice of four or five oranges and boil up with small amount of brown sugar to form syrup and pour over cake when cooked ... this was so really nice !!!!

Wednesday 23rd July - My Diary Day Three

As I had to teach the Spin Class last night I found that I slept so heavy. I had pushed not only the class but also myself because sometimes it's good to test the Human ECO System is working at it's best - it was.

This project to get both healthier and leaner not only makes me feel that I am doing a good thing but the feedback and interest from people all over the world has been pleasantly surprizing but it's early and it will take dedicated commitment as we head towards the first weekend.

Chatting to a new friend in the U.S. I found out that he had just recently achieved a great health bonus of losing a substantial amount of bodyfat and gaining much needed lean muscle to support a healthy metabolism. This was done with two things - sweat and commitment. He had also cut substantially the unnecessary calories and made focus of quality nutrients - this is a must.

All to often we get "side-tracked" with life issues but it is the achievers who are persistent where others drop off. YOU must make yourself important so that will allow you to continue to focus when the going gets tough(er). It's YOUR LIFE.

TONY 's DIARY - Day Three

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Blueberries. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

Mid morning:
Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + 4 x Corn thins and Hommous

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Low Fat Cottage Cheese + Tin of Tuna + Crushed Almonds + Tomato

Mid Afternoon snack - Cup of Coffee + Skim milk
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 20g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder (no fruit)

Workout - 1 hour Pump class + 15 mins (hard cardio) on Rower

Dinner:
Turkey and CousCous Rissoles (I made myself) + Steamed Vegetables (Broccolli / Carrots / Tomato). Dessert - Wholemeal Banana + Blueberry Muffin

2 Hours before bed
Fibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - Workouts are going well and I'm feeling strong. I again consumed enough water for the day and have cut down on my social coffee's by carrying around water bottle with me.

Daily mantra :
I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

Almond Citrus Cake recipe tomorrow.

Tuesday 22nd July 2008 - My Diary Day Two plus Muffin Recipe

Banana + Blueberry Muffins plus Almond Citrus Cake I made.

Recipe for Muffins at bottom.

TONY 's DIARY - Day Two

As I had such a great first day I slept really well and again felt motivated to help as many people as I can with this project to get both healthier and leaner.

I also find that keeping a personal Diary also allows me to consciously monitor (not dwell) on the quality of the calories that I consume to make sure that I am getting what I need.

It's definitely important to saturate your human eco system with quality nutrients and in doing this you will find that you need a lot less calories overall.

Breakfast:

Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 cup Blueberries. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

NOTE - I have sourced my combination greens powder from the U.S. as I like the content.

In Australia you can use Vital Greens.

9.30am Workout - Pump class (bar with weights) 1 hour

Mid morning:

Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Protein Bar - post workout

Lunch:

Mixed Leaf Salad + Green Beans + Low Fat Cottage Cheese + Tin of Tuna + Crushed Almonds

Mid Afternoon snack - 6 Corn Thins (like rice cakes only thinner) + Houmous + lean ham slices

Cup of Coffee + Skim milk

Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 20g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder (no frozen banana)

Workout - taught 1 hour Spin class (wasn't planned but did a cover for instructor friend)

Dinner:

Mixed Leaf Salad + Tomato + Green Beans + Broccolli + Crushed Almonds + Low Fat Cottage Cheese. Dessert - Wholemeal Banana + Blueberry Muffins (I personally made - recipe below)

2 Hours before bed

Fibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall - Evening workout was unplanned but felt great teaching the class and sharing the exciting project with others. I again consumed enough water for the day and have cut down on my social coffee's by carrying around water bottle with me.

Daily mantra :

I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions.

On the weekend I found some baking recipes and decided to try them. One was for Almond Citrus Cake which I located in a Diabetes magazine so I knew it would suit the program (being low sugar and tasted amazing). The other was the Muffins.

Wholemeal Banana and Blueberry Muffins - makes 12 big ones

Ingredients:

2 very ripe bananas

2 cups wholemeal plain flour

1 + 1/2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp bi carb soda

pinch sea salt

1/2 cup brown sugar

280ml buttermilk - I changed this for low fat milk

1 egg (lightly beaten)

75ml light olive oil (or melted butter) - I used only 60ml light olive oil

200g blueberries rinsed / drained

Preheat oven - 180 degrees

Grease or spray a muffin pan

Mash bananas - buy really ripe bananas or buy them a few days before you intend to cook

Mix flour, baking powder, bi carb soda, salt and sugar in electric mixer

In middle of bowl make well (hole), add milk, egg, oil, banana

Don't overmix - then add the blueberries for a few stirs (don't want to break up blueberries)

Spoon mixture into muffin pan and place in oven for 20-25 mins

Test with wooden skewer to make sure cooked.

I found these to be very yummy !!!

Monday 21st July 2008 - Day One Week One + My Diary

Thank you for all the incredible emails of support and positive feedback. Remember you can start this Challenge anytime you wish. I just wanted to set a date so that I had everything done and ready to load up. For everyone asking me what they need to do to begin the Global Health Challenge.

At the bottom of each day's blog I will be keeping my Diary on here to show that I am also doing what I ask of others. It won't be perfect everyday but that is not my goal. Improvement is what I seek.

Week One - It begins. The set up phase.

1) Buy yourself a Notepad to record your efforts. This will serve as YOUR personal reference Diary, so if you wish you can do this again should you need to. It is one of the most effective strategies that I have found with clients.

In the Diary you will record all of your food and drink consumed each day PLUS write down any activity you have completed.

2) Take a photo of yourself. This is for your records ONLY so do it in a swimsuit.
I get clients to do this as most people don't appreciate their final efforts. You have all seen the "before" and "after" shots that most competitions have. They do this as it is always an incredible difference to those that stick with the plan.

3) Take measurements.
Shoulders (with arms by your side)
Chest (at the nipple line)
Waist (bellybutton)
Hips (Pelvic line)
Thigh (midpoint between knee and top of hip) -

Now write them in your Notepad as this will serve to keep a record and we do this again at Week 8.

This is another way of keeping track of progress. Understand that there will be areas of your body that don't lose as fast as others and yes it is most likely the areas that you dislike the most that will be the hardest to move. We focus on achievements.

4) Optional recording of bodyweight. I find that with our goal to change bodyshape by increasing nutrient absorption for getting lean muscle definition, your weight should become a lower priority as we will be losing bodyfat.

Now I have found with the current amount of people overweight / obese that are being described as "alarming" that all too often we are consuming too many calories for our decreased levels of activity. We need to change this and so recording our intake of food and drinks will help.

Goal of this week is to eliminate all the unnecessary elements (and additional calories) of your nutrition intake that have been causing the problems to your health status and affecting the image in the Mirror.

- Reduce alcohol intake to weekend only - This is not an option. It's only 56 days

- Replace white foods to whole grains- Reduce fat intake with low fat / no fat options (in both food and drinks)

- Increase H20 (water) intake to 6 glasses per day. If you consume more - great.

- Introduce the three (3) one hour sessions for three (3) days of activity with the AFTERBURNER Workouts to your weekly routine or continue with your current activities. It is mandatory to do three hours per week.

TONY 's DIARY - Day One
Felt motivated and got up early to go and do a walk before starting work. This was before my morning shake. Walked for 45 mins at a brisk pace

Breakfast:
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 45g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder + 1/2 frozen banana. Take a Daily Multi vitamin + Joint Power

NOTE - I have sourced my combination greens powder from the U.S. as I like the content.
In Australia you can use Vital Greens.

Mid morning:
Cup of Coffee + Skim milk + Wholemeal Blueberry Muffin (I made these myself - recipe will be added)

Lunch:
Mixed Leaf Salad + Green Beans + Low Fat Cottage Cheese + Tin of Tuna + Crushed Almonds

Cup of Coffee + Skim milk
Mid Afternoon - 2 hours before weights workout
Energy Shake - 400ml Water + 30g Protein Powder + Combination Greens Powder (no frozen banana)

Weights Workout - 1 hour

Dinner:
Piece of Salmon + Mixed Leaf Salad + Capsicum (Red Pepper) + Crushed Almonds + Low Fat Cottage Cheese
Dessert - Small tub of Weight Watchers Peaches

2 Hours before bed
Fibre Shake + 20g Protein Powder

Overall I feel like I achieved my objectives. I am totally committed to supporting my Human ECO System with my actions. I consumed enough water for the day.
Felt strong and motivated which was why I decided to do the morning walk.

Here are all the titles of the BLOGS on here for the last seven months.

The Rainbow Nutrient Refuelling Plan and Afterburner Workout Programs are located on Wed 16th April and the 7 Day Detox (Week 5 of the 8 Week Program) is located on Thurs 22nd May.

HUMAN ECO SYSTEM BLOG - TOPICS By Tony Findlay – Global Health Warrior

Sunday 20th July 2008 - Here we go - the Global Health Challenge
Saturday 12th July 2008 - I'm a Poster Child for ADD and ADHD
Monday 7th July 2008 - NO more excuses for being unhealthy. DO THIS PROGRAM NOW
Friday 4th July 2008 - HEALTH is the New Religion
Sunday 22nd June 2008 - Fitness is NOT the Answer
Thursday 19th June 2008 - It's Official Aussies are the FATTEST
Thursday 12th June 2008 - People DON'T die from being TOO FAT !!
Tuesday 10th June 2008 - The RoadMap of Life
Sunday 8th June 2008 - Saving the world one CHILD at a time
Sunday 1st June 2008 - The PROBLEM we ALL face - Waste VS Waist Overload
JUNE 2008

Saturday 31st May 2008 - Calories also come from your glass, can or bottle
Friday 30th May - the 3R's of Health Education
Thursday 29th May 2008 - FOOD MATTERS Documentary
Tuesday 27th May 2008 - Are YOU eating too many calories ?
Sunday 25th May 2008 - Childhood Obesity Solutions
Thursday 22nd May 2008, The 7 Day Human ECO Cleanse
Thursday 15th May 2008 - Fitness Possessed or Fitness Obsessed
Saturday 10th May - Adjusting your "ATTITOOD" compass
MAY 2008

Wednesday 30th April, 2008 - As the world turns
Sunday 27th April 2008 - Are you wearing your "nutrition seatbelt" ??
Thursday 24th April 2008 - Find YOUR connection
Wednesday 23rd April - Being ECO Clean will make you ECO Lean
Sunday 20th April 2008 - What makes an EXPERT ???
Friday 18th April 2008 - Friends in HIGH Places
Wednesday 16th April - Afterburner Workouts - Part B of the Human ECO System
Wednesday 16th April 2008 - Rainbow Nutrient Refuelling Plan - Part A of the Human ECO System
Sunday 6th April 2008 - The Human Cell - Family Home or Prison Sentence
APRIL 2008

Sunday 30th March 2008 - What happens to the food nutrients when you eat ?
Thursday 27th March 2008 - POWER Shake - a NEW Outstanding Nutritional Product
Friday 14th March 2008 - Breathe slow
MARCH 2008

Thursday 28th February - Men - do we really think that we understand women ?
Sunday 24th February 2008 - Nature vs Nurture in the Human E.C.O. System
Thursday 21st February 2008 - Knowledge is Power
Saturday 16th February 2008 - It's far from rocket science in fact it's just plain wrong that we are eating so much
Thursday 14th February 2008 - Its Valentines Day
Wednesday 13th February 2008 - New disease - Fitness Instructor Intolerant
Tuesday 12th February 2008 - Dehydration is like Global Warming in the Body
Saturday 9th February 2008 - My Life as a Fruit Salad Plate
Saturday 2nd February 2008 - Making a Game Plan
FEBRUARY 2008

Sunday 27th January 2008 - The business of being BUSY
Saturday 26th January 2008 - Australia Day downunder
Friday 25th January 2008 - Update from the FitYoga Conference
Monday 21st January 2008 - I Did It 24 Hours Charity Spinathon
Wednesday 16th Janurary 2008 - Have I Done All That I Can ?
Saturday 12th January 08 - Not long to go till NYC trip
Thursday 3rd January 08 - Happy New Year
JANUARY 2008

Sunday 23rd December - Try to Feed em - Don't fatten em !
Wednesday 19th December - 24 hours on a Spin Bike ... OUCH !
Wednesday 19th December - its beginning to look a lot like ...........
Thursday 13th December - the gravity of the crisis
Tuesday 11th December - Berry Good News from the Wholefood Farmacy
Saturday 8th December - Head over Heels ........
Friday 7th December - Thoughts from Chuan Tzu
Wednesday 5th December - We Failed Again !!!
Monday 3rd December - Control Freak or Control Freq
Sunday 2nd December - Life in Flight - the Journey
Saturday 1st December - SUMMER Fat Loss + Activity Strategies
DECEMBER 2007

Friday 30th November - Your Body and it's Coat of Arms
Tuesday 27th November - Fat Loss Plateau
Saturday 24th November - 7 Day ECO-Cleansing Week E-Book
Friday 23rd November - Thought Pollution
Thursday 22nd November - Self Doubt into Self Belief
Wednesday 21st November - Family based FUN
Tuesday 20th November - Stinking Thinking or Negative Thoughts
Sunday 18th November - Feedback on the Human ECO Plan
Saturday 17th November - What is my E.C.O. plan going to contain ?
Thursday 15th November - What is an ECO System ?
Wednesday 14th November - Diabetes - be afraid !
Tuesday 13th November - My 3 Life Principles
Monday 12th November - Little things can make a HUGE difference
Sunday 11th November - We Need Good Fats
Saturday 10th November - What do I have for breakfast ?
Friday 9th November - Who Hijacked Breakfast ?
Thursday 8th November - Thoughts for YOU
Wednesday 7th November - Supplements = Good or Bad ?
Tuesday 6th November - Eating Out Tips - Sauces
Monday 6th November - How things happen
Sunday 4th November - Summer of Salads
Saturday 3rd November - FIVE strategic tips and a reality check
Friday 2nd November - Do fat loss supplements work ?
Thursday 1st November - Sound the ALARM !!!!
NOVEMBER 2007

Wednesday 31st October - Best Laid Plans
Tuesday 30th October - Portion Distortion assistance
Monday 29th October - Some Positive Thoughts
Sunday 28th October - Riding the troughs of the day
Saturday 27th October - Daily Food Intake
Friday 26th October - Family Fitness = Family FUN
Thursday 25th October - Breakfast of Champions ????
Wednesday 24th October - The value of Cross Training
Tuesday 23rd October - Fat FREE normally means Nutrient POOR
Monday 22nd October - What is Moderation ?
Sunday 21st October - Killer Calories !!!
Saturday 20th October - Marketing is KING !!
Friday 19th October - Eat Fresh and Eat Local
Thursday 18th October - ANOTHER Report to tell us that being overweight is a long term health risk.
Tuesday 16th October - Is the obesity crisis really that bad ?
Monday 15th October - Not every day is a 100% ....
Sunday 14th October - Aussie Men go 1, 2 and three Aussie Women place in Top 10 in Hawaii Ironman Triathlon World Championships
Sunday 14th October - Dont just move more - stop eating so much !
Saturday 13th October - Emotional Baggage = Friend or Foe ?
Friday 12th October - Surrender doesn't always mean Failure !
Thursday 11th October – Comments from Tony -
Wednesday 10th October - Who wins and who loses ?
Tuesday 9th October 2007 - What are you training for ?
Monday 8th October – Computer crashes !!r
OCTOBER 2007

Sunday 20th July 2008 - Here we go - the Global Health Challenge

Overview of 8 Weeks Plan - Developed by Tony Findlay (G.H.W.)
Reviewed with Warrior Nutrition Team

This is it. This is where your Biology meets your Ecology !!
I want to give YOU some detail and explain how this plan can help.
This is not only a plan that I recommend but it is a plan that I personally live by and want to share.

The description of the Human E.C.O. System is:

1. Evolution - This is a recognition of the habits, patterns, trigger points that have impacted upon you achieving weight loss success in the past. By identifying these errors we can move forward with clarity which then allows us to better comprehend this knowledge.

2. Comprehension - This is to provide a level of understanding of your body and the key internal elements such as Heart, Liver, Kidney, Pancreas and Gastro-intestinal Tract, so that YOU start to become personally responsible with greater awareness and change the past.

3. Operation GO - This is the action phase which consists of the outline of the next fifty six (56) days or eight (8) weeks of life changing habits so YOU know what you are going to be doing, the RAINBOW Nutrient Refuelling plan to maximize your ; and the Afterburner Workouts to give you a variety of options for your activity sessions.

Part of our health issues concerning OBESITY are that we seldom get a clear and full explanation of what are bodies have been designed to do. We ALL “assume a lot of things” and as a result are then quick to believe the easy “marketing advice” that is given to us by people whose goal is simply to increase their profits by increasing their sales and whose advice justifies our unhealthy habits.

They make our “poor nutritional choices look cool” and anything cool couldn’t possibly be bad for us - could it ??

We buy into this with our agreement of purchases of their products, but we then seem unable to reason or understand why our health is deteriorating and when ill health of any disease “personally touches us” there is always part denial / part lack of responsibility.

Don’t get me wrong, I am not here to pass judgement or criticise anything that has happened in the past.

My role is to facilitate YOU towards finding intrinsic (internal) motivation for changing your life because no one forces you to sit on the couch watching TV while the fitness centre doors are open or while the sun shines outside beckoning you to “come out and play”.

Life is all about choices.
Do you make the right ones ?
Do you want to make better health choices ?

Then it is time to get ECO-friendly with YOUR body.

All that I ask is that if you do decide to try this you be fair to me and to yourself and complete the next 56 days to show you how your life will not only be different, it will be enlightening.

NOTES :
With any suggested lifestyle changing program it is recommended that you seek

OVERVIEW OF THE EIGHT WEEK - HUMAN E.C.O. SYSTEM PLAN

Week One - It begins. The set up phase.
1) Buy yourself a Notepad to record your efforts. This will serve as YOUR personal reference so you can do this again should you need to. It is one of the most effective strategies that I have found with clients.
2) Take a photo of yourself. This is for your records ONLY so do it in a swimsuit.
3) Take measurements. Shoulders / Chest / Waist (bellybutton) / Hips (Pelvic line) / Thigh (midpoint between knee and top of hip) - write them in your Notepad as this will serve to keep a record
4) Optional recording of bodyweight.

Goal of this week is to eliminate all the unnecessary elements (and additional calories) of your nutrition intake that have been causing the problems to your health status and affecting the image in the Mirror.

- Reduce alcohol intake to weekend only - This is not an option
- Replace white foods to whole grains
- Reduce fat intake with low fat / no fat options (in both food and drinks)
- Increase H20 (water) intake to 6 glasses per day
- Introduce the three (3) one hour sessions for three (3) days of activity with the AFTERBURNER Workouts to your weekly routine or continue with your current activities. It is mandatory to do three hours per week.

Week Two - Up the Challenge while YOU'RE still motivated

Goal of this week is to begin to fine tune the Plan and focus on the end result
- Reduce alcohol completely from your life for the duration of the E.C.O. System Plan - its not that hard a choice for a healthier life
- Reduce your caffeine intake to one cup per day (if applicable)
- Increase your fibre intake with salads and vegetables. Dont just add or increase fruit. We need to get more nutrients into your system.
- Increase H20 (water) to 8 glasses per day
- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

Week Three - Consolidate the first two weeks

Goal of this week is to consolidate the first two (2) weeks of the life changing habits
- Reduce caffeine intake to green tea or better yet none. If you still want to have coffee that is okay but it must be with low fat / non fat milk but no more than two cups a day
- Reduce not eliminate your intake of starch and grains which is the rice / pasta and if you still want bread then go to Multi-grain and only 2 slices per day
- Maintain H20 (water) intake to 8 glasses per day
- Maintain the three (3) days of activity

Week Four - Here is where you will start to doubt your staying power - BE STRONG

Goal of this week is to consolidate the first three (3) weeks of life changing habits and get ready for our week 5 challenge.
- Reduce (not eliminate) your dairy intake - this can add a lot of extra calories we don't need
- Reduce (not eliminate) intake of red meat and replace to white fish- Maintain the three (3) days of activity
- Maintain H20 (water) intake to 8 glasses per day

Week Five – THE CHALLENGE WEEK FOR HUMAN ECO CLEANSING

Breakdown of nutrition intake for this 7 days is supplied as separate pages in the RAINBOW Nutrient Refuelling Plan

Goal of this week is to use the next seven (7) days as the “detox period for an internal human eco-cleanse” and we reduce proteins and then re-introduce them if you wish
- Day one = Protein Salmon or Lean Meat or White Fish ONLY
- Day two = Protein White Fish
- Day three = Protein Egg or Legumes
- Day four = Total ECO Cleanse Day. Fruit, Vegetables and Salad only (lots of water minimum of 10 glasses)
- Day five = Protein Egg or Legumes
- Day six = Protein White Fish
- Day seven = Protein Salmon or Lean Meat or White Fish

Week Six / Seven / Eight

-Goal of this next twenty one (21) days or three (3) weeks are designed to consolidate the first 5 weeks and to now being to establish patterns for your new LIFE.

NOTE – the breakdown of the main 7 days for the Human ECO Cleanse is listed in detail in the RAINBOW NUTRIENT REFUELLING PLAN.
I will list it on here as well.

Are you ready to CHANGE YOUR LIFE ?
Then what are you waiting for ... start today !!

Saturday 12th July 2008 - I'm a Poster Child for ADD and ADHD

I was reading the paper this morning and my blood started to boil - translation - I was getting very angry at the latest Government recommendations for children's health. Now, I have never been diagnosed for ADD or ADHD but have no doubt that I should be a Poster Child for both as any of my friends would attest.

Why do I say this?
I am writing three movie script storylines currently.
I teach Spin cycle classes a few times per week and personally workout daily.
I am developing health program for global health challenge and continuing to educate myself on health issues to help others.
Earlier this year I rode in New York for 24 hours straight with only 5 min breaks each hour on a Spin Bike for Charity after flying halfway across the world from Sydney the day before.

It is these abilities that impress other people with my skills to complete multiple tasks and due to no doubt part to my passion. Now I don't make light of these medical conditions that afflicts others but have found a way to "channel my passions" into results through controlling and taking charge of my health with sound eating principles and regularly energy use with an active lifestyle.

So when I read this article in the Paper today in Sydney I was disgusted !!!

RITALIN and other ADHD drugs have been officially endorsed by the Federal Government as a "first-line treatment" for children, under new guidelines. Parents have also been warned to ignore alternative treatments, such as diet and exercise, which the guidelines claim have "limited or no benefit" in treating ADHD. The draft guidelines have been compiled by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, following a Government review last year. But parents and experts yesterday rejected the guidelines saying drugs should be a "last resort".

Associate Professor David Forbes, chair of the ADHD guidelines working group, agreed that not enough research had been done into alternative therapies. He said evidence proved medication did work in treating ADHD. "No one is saying kids go on medication and stay on it," he said. "There wasn't the evidence to support a positive reaction (for diet and exercise)."

THIS IS A JOKE AND AN INSULT TO ALL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS.

Of course there wasn't enough evidence. Who is going to fund a research study into whether exercise and diet modifications will work to help children? No one.
There is no one to benefit from this research apart from the children that are being over-medicated.

The Drug companies wouldn't do it or else it could affect their sales and profits.
The processed food and sugary drink companies wouldn't do it or they would have to change their food ingredients BACK to whole food WITHOUT additives.

So what is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral developmental disorder affecting about 3-5% of the world's population. It typically presents itself during childhood, and is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity, as well as forgetfulness, poor impulse control or impulsivity, and distractibility. ADHD is currently considered to be a persistent and chronic condition for which no medical cure is available, although medication can be prescribed. ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in children with about 60% diagnosed with ADHD retain the condition as adults. It appears to be highly heritable, although one-fifth of all cases are estimated to be caused from trauma or toxic exposure. Methods of treatment usually involve some combination of medications, behavior modifications, life style changes, and counseling.

So let's take a look at the Ritalin Side Effects.
Nervousness and insomnia are the most common adverse reactions but are usually controlled by reducing dosage and omitting the drug in the afternoon or evening. Other reactions include hypersensitivity (including skin rash, fever, arthralgia, exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme with histopathological findings of necrotizing vasculitis, and thrombocytopenic purpura); anorexia; nausea; dizziness; palpitations; headache; dyskinesia; drowsiness; blood pressure and pulse changes, both up and down; tachycardia; angina; cardiac arrhythmia; abdominal pain; weight loss during prolonged therapy. Allergic reactions: skin rash, hives, drug fever joint pains possible. Headache, dizziness rapid and forceful heart palpitation-infrequent.

So is it just me or does any of this sound appealing for your child to have and go through. I know that I personally would be agitated, upset and distracted with any or all of these side effects and probably couldn't sleep which would make me forgetful, grumpy and angry.

Hang on, what are the indications of ADD and ADHD again ?
Agitated, forgetful, distracted. Hmm definitely a good reason to keep our kids medicated as these side effects definitely can be controlled by inducing a drug filled haze that surely impacts on both learning and cognative habits. So I guess then all we need to do is UP the medication and oh yeah ... commit our kids to long term drug dependancy.

How do I cope when I get distracted?
I channel my focus by controlling my excess levels of energy with workouts and tasks.
I support this with conscious eating habits.
And as a result I am not only more in control, less agitated, less distracted, I sleep better, and of course I am very healthy with low bodyfat which supports positive self esteem.

While my passion is and always will remain fitness and health it is a hard business to contend with the billions of dollars that are spent to market drug company products and unhealthy, processed food that is also supported by the "sugar drinks" industries. These industries while not working together are definitely platforms that support each other with "spin doctor's" and mis-information.

Medical institutions and drug companies garnish massive profits from our children's ill health and while I would like to believe that eventually there will come a time when fitness and health can actually compete, I dont see that in the short term.

Now I am off for a workout to bleed off this disgust and "excess energy" !!!!

Monday 7th July 2008 - There are NO more excuses for being unhealthy. DO THIS PROGRAM NOW

ARE YOU READY TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE ?

Then these 56 Days will allow YOU to regain control of your Human ECO System.
I am going to help by providing all the knowledge as I want YOU to achieve both your peak physical and mental health.

Physical health will come through the nutrition and activity components.
Mental health will come from the success YOU achieve and the love and acceptance of YOUR new body through increased self esteem and changed bodyshape.

This is not a miracle plan - with pills and potions - it takes effort and commitment. Did I just lose some of you?
Sorry, but the effort required is ONLY three hours per week of activity and then the commitment to remain "constantly aware" for the 56 days. This is also not a money making scheme designed to have the only weight you lose come from YOUR wallet.

It is however a chance for you to practice all the elements of the program over a set time period of ONLY 56 days and gain achievable results of both weight and fat loss.

Why do you need to learn these tools?
Because most of us are walking talking derelicts. We know what we are doing wrong, and in fact most of us could probably prescribe a sensible plan to achieve this healthier life but we don't. That is what I mean about creating a new "health" model for success. Change is required and so that means a team effort. I'm committed to helping you change where you currently are to where you want to be.

People often complain about how hard it is to lose weight, and then privately hate themselves for a lack of self control. You see the ONLY real thing in our lives that we control is what goes into our mouths and bodies. Most likely someone else supplies guidelines for your employment. Someone else supplies guidelines for other areas of your life but there is only one control point responsible for eating - YOU.

Now probably like most people you are confused and this leads to looking for the easy option. You know that this is not doing you any favors but as long as there is someone else to blame then you continue to follow the mixed messages supplied by media and "experts".

Be honest with yourself.
Do you really want to be unhealthy?
Do you really like what you see in the mirror?

If not know that you are not alone. This self loathing leads to the majority of people giving up the obvious path of an active lifestyle or even movement because we are a growing number of overweight people in society and until we reach that obese status, we don't worry about 5/10/15 additional kilograms of weight we put on.

We then do nothing and feel a level of self pity when we have to buy bigger sized clothes until we get to the next stage - we reach the point where disease management is required or a medication solution takes away our concerns. We have become a society of lazy people who cope with this by becoming "self medicators" either through pills, potions, drugs, medications or alcohol. A great lot of role models for children we are.

These points may seem harsh with what I have said and if it "stings a little", I don't apologize for being honest, and can accept giving you a little personal pain now instead of waiting until you get that medical demand to change. That was the Tony Pill so swallow it down with some water and let's get to creating personal changes in YOU.

This change can happen and so here is my commitment.
With this eight week program - you WILL gain the necessary knowledge through life changing experiences that YOU control but it will take YOU doing this with strength, compassion and integrity.

Those three words symbolize what I believe will be needed for YOUR journey.

Strength of Mind - when the day seems tough and the easy option is calling to ignore the workout and head for the bar, coffee shop or couch at home.
Compassion of Heart - because we need to love ourselves a little more and be less judgemental to achieve the success we deserve.
Integrity of Soul - commitment and sacrifice always make us draw from our personal integrity bank and we want to have plenty of reserves.

So why would I give this program away for FREE when I have personally spent thousands and thousands of dollars to gain the knowledge through courses and then further spent hours of my own personal research to test this when really I could charge hundreds of dollars for this with only 3 easy payments.

Okay that is a fair question. What about we do this so you realize the value.
It's going to cost $99 for the entire program with three easy payments of $33.
But wait....
To create further value I will pay that amount each month for YOU and all YOU have to do is get off your butt and achieve this goal. I am tired of hearing these two excuses. It costs too much to get healthy and it takes too long to see a result. So I have built a program around those two points.

So what is required :

- Activity is 3 x 1 hours per week = ONLY 3 hours out of 168 hours. I don't care what you do as long as you increase your heart rate for 30 minutes each time. You could do Spin one day. Pump or Bar Class another and Cardio / Lean muscle with my AfterBurner Workouts or you could do anything you like but it must be for at least three hours per week. Now while I support the benefits of certain styles of Yoga and Pilates, as long as you are being physically challenged then it's okay but if you are not being challenged, then this becomes an additional activity. If you are feeling good or better then do more.
NOTE - my goal here is to increase your caloric expenditure

- Healthy eating with the Rainbow Nutrient Refuelling Plan, based around whole food nutrition to load up the body with life enriching Anti-Oxidants, Phyto-Nutrients and other essential ingredents that also allow for lifestyle options of nutrient rich energy replacements.
NOTE - my goal here is to control your caloric intake through quality nutrient dense food options and lower the empty calories that add up.

You see with this plan while in fact it appears simple, it is however very strategic. I had nutrition professionals give it their seal of approval and I have personnally been living on this program now for over 12 months with continuing success.

With all good programs you will get support if you need it through emailing me, checking the blog, and by providing YOUR feedback. We can exchange recipes here too. I have really started to appreciate how easy cooking can be and as a single male that is a blessing in itself. I plan to give video blogs and post them both here and on Facebook to the group.


When do we Start: Monday, 21st July
Cost: $FREE - this is over a $1000 worth of value through my knowledge

To register, all YOU have to do is log here or on the Facebook group and indicate your willingness to participate.

It's YOUR Body - It's YOUR Life !!

Friday 4th July 2008 - HEALTH is the New Religion

That is not exactly true but I wish it was. Because inside these religious temples we seek guidance, we offer praise and make sacrifices.

We give and get love spiritually and are often advised to become more accepting. Accepting of our faults, of our sins, and of ourselves through levels of forgiveness.

We recognise this as a "higher power" and make commitments to do, and be, the best person we can be by finding a relationship with a divine entity. So, why can't we use those same principles of forgiveness, commitment, love and acceptance for our health and create a relationship with our bodies. Imagine if we truly treated our bodies like temples and gave them the same respect and adoration that we do other temples and their beliefs.

Now I often tell my friends, clients, and anyone who gets cornered by me (*smiles), that the outward aspect of our lives is what we think indicates our health. But anyone who knows me and who has read through my blogs will also be aware that my position has markedly changed from the outside "awareness and judgement" of the body to the inside with good reason. You see, when you look at your body in the mirror, it's mostly a negative experience. Rarely do we see our positive physical traits but dwell on our less attractive aspects which is not in anyway a true reflection of the people we are.

So what you don't like you will hide, cover and occassionally change.
But what is happening on the inside that YOU can't see or judge. Because this is where "change" really needs to occur. Deep within your Human ECO System.

You see when I developed this path of learning it occurred to me that most people really have no relationship or love awareness of the "inside" of their body. Mostly we think about how we present ourselves outwardly and that is our "self esteem monitor" for the day and can make us happy, sad or indifferent, but this doesn't indicate how the war on obesity and disease is being fought (won or lost) on the inside underneath the clothes, underneath our skin.

Sadly, you don't often find out you have a disease until the condition presents itself with a symptom and then you will have to start to be pro-active and most likely take preventative steps to minimize the ongoing damage or the ultimate cost is death.

Once you have a disease you go into "management" phases with either strategies involving activity, nutrition or medications. Now the last one is definitely not designed to fix the situation but rather slow down the advancement and keep you requiring a medical dose, as that makes the Pharma companies money. The activity and nutrition will involve you trying to "regain" what you lost through neglect but what is really happening on the inside ?

The Human ECO System strategy I developed is all about PROTECTION.

You see PREVENTION is about the "management" of the disease through a series of steps either prescription or protocol. Where as PROTECTION is all about defence. It is what we need to teach young children who need to be armed with knowledge and then begin to reprogram ourselves before there are "too many symptoms". This is now becoming the "new research" prognosis and outlook for dealing with our current unhealthy status of the masses.

It all begins on the inside and deep within your Human ECO System.
You concentrate and focus on protecting the human cell and to do that you "arm and load" it up with not just the necessary ratio of carbs, proteins and fats, and not just with vitamins and minerals but with all that is required.

Because to function at your best, your Human ECO System requires much more.
It constantly needs water (H2o) on a regular basis and more than a few glasses.
It needs regular physical acivity to make use of the energy you are supplying and support optimal cardiovascular functioning.

AND of equal importance as the others - it needs a good and rich supply of Phyto-chemicals which are nutrients that come from not only fruits and vegetables but also certain beverages (think green tea) and also certain spices. The word comes from the Greek phyto, or plant, and that in itself should indicate a relationship with your Human ECO System.

A combination of ALL of these essential nutrients should come from your eating habits, diet, whatever you call it. If not, then YOU are personally responsible for being less effective in dealing with health strategies that make up and support your human defence network.

Then we need to nurture that human eco system with love and caring through both attitude and action. This is what is required.

So how can HEALTH become a Religion.
Please don't think that I am trying to make light of the religious beliefs of anyone but rather I want to find a connection with you and your body that religion seems able to create.

I need to find and help you appreciate this or as with any health strategy we will fail. We already are failing on a massive basis - obesity and disease are everywhere in our society.

Fitness can't seem to crack through the barrier. Nutrition awareness is a confusing series of "health messages" that are then complicated and prostituted by food companies to create sales through marketing that create even greater levels of confusion until it becomes too hard for the normal person.

Well religion seems to offer some form of help, some form of salvation that many seek.
With the current fitness and health paradigms we can only offer "panel beating or bodywork for the outside of the body" and if that continues to fail as has been happening for many years, our clients then seek salvation from the medical community and medications that cause harm to our human eco systems.

The different forms of activity like Yoga (or Pilates) try to breach and bridge this gap by offering another way to be more silent and learn how your Mind is the strongest and most powerful muscle in the body. No additional noise to add to our daily lives allows us to "listen" to what our bodies are saying and hopefully then act on it.

In my experience with children I have learned that quality knowledge in a format they understand is purely like nutrition for their brains; FUEL them up on effective strategies and they become able to achieve an almost zealot like quality of commitment; almost fanatical in their actions to succeed; and almost adopt a religious fever like attitude about their bodies.

So why does this work with them ?
Is it that they appreciate how important the problem is?

I'm not sure of those answers but I know for a fact that we can make a difference.
We can create a better world health status if we could start to appreciate and love ourselves a little more. BUT it will take commitment, it will take effective strategies, it will take us starting to adopt PROTECTION of our Human ECO System and doing what needs to be done.