Eric Leader's Blog

Hey Everyone!!! Welcome to my blog, I hope that you enjoy the entries. As sappy as it may be, I consider my blog to be my very own personal diary for all of you to share. Hopefully, my entries can not only entertain a bit, but motivate as well. However, if you are a client of mine, don't hold my entries against me, you may end up in my blog :)

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Friday, January 1st:

New Years Message from Tony

Another from Tony regarding New Years:

Hi Everyone,

I wanted to personally wish all of you a Happy, Healthy, Prosperous 2010!

This year will be the year you have been waiting for! Its up to you to make that happen!

I know that this year I will make my first MILLION!

This year, I will achieve every goal I have set out to accomplish! I will accomplish more this year than I have accomplished in the last 10 years!

I know for a fact that if you can see it in your mind then what could stop it from happening?

I want to challenge you all this year. In your mind, envision every dream, every goal, every wish coming true! See yourself having health, money, success, happiness, and peace!

The sky is the limit and there is no shortage of what can be yours!

Don't believe in the economy being bad and that were in hard times or that you're over and out or nothing good happens to you because all those negative thoughts will become a reality!

2010 can be your finest year if you believe!

SEE YOURSELF WHERE YOU WANT TO BE AND WITH WHAT YOU WANT TO HAVE NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE!

This year will be my YEAR! I see it already! I see myself at the very top!

I also want to take this time to thank all of my enemies. The more you hate me and the more you hope to destroy me, the stronger I get and the more I achieve! So please don't stop hating me!

I wish us Happiness!

I wish us Health!

I wish us Peace!

I wish us Strength

I wish us Wealth!

I wish us OUR BEST YEAR YET!

Happy New Year and God Bless!

Anthony Catanzaro

Friday, December 25th:

Merry Christmas

Hey all, I hope that this entry finds you well and enjoying the holiday with family and friends. The following is a nice entry sent to me by a friend of mine named Anthony Catanzaro. I just wanted to share his thoughts:

Hello All!

Well another year has come and gone and I know this year has been challenging for many. There has been so much negative energy thrown everywhere and its very hard to stay in a positive frame of mine when all you hear is bad depressing news.

Every year for the past 6 years I have been sending you messages of hope, messages of faith, messages from deep down in my soul...People wonder if I ever face challenges they wonder well Tony must have the greatest life in the world, he has everything going for him and so on and so forth. I want you all to know that I face the same challenges you face every day. I'm no different than you. I have ups and downs and everything in between but there is one thing I don't have and that's a defeated mentality.

Christmas is here and I know there are a lot of you that may not feel the spirit this year, you may not be feeling that Christmas magic like you did before. You may be saying to yourself I don't feel like celebrating this year, I'm not in the Christmas sprit, I'm broke, etc, etc, etc, STOP!

Remember when you were a kid, remember when Christmas morning was the greatest day ever. Remember when you would wake up and run to the tree to see what Santa brought you. I sure do. I remember the magic of Christmas, its in my heart.

I know there are many of you who are not Christians and don't observe Christmas but understand where I'm coming from.

This is the most magical time of year there is a feeling in the air and if you quiet your soul for just a moment you will feel the magic of Christmas which is simply LOVE...

They say Love is sometimes not enough but my friend to me all you need is love. Its the strongest emotion we have. When we love and give love we receive that same love back.

I believe in Christmas miracles.. I believe there is a reason for everything good or bad. no matter what you have been through no matter what challenges you face there's one thing that can never be taken away from you unless you let it and that's love..

Love beats everything!

For the past 6 years I have been sending you messages of inspiration but this year I'm sending you a simple message LOVE..

I want you all to know there are many different meanings of what Christmas is all about, some want to be politically correct, some want only to recognize Jesus, some really no idea what 'Christmas is about at all.

Love is what this time of year is all about...just Love ...love for you and everyone you meet, even your enemies.

Find the love in your heart and you will find Christmas all over again..

Tina and I wish you the happiest, the healthiest, the most Joyous, and most wonderful Christmas and New year you've ever had in your entire life! And of course we wish you LOVE!

May this year be full of positive thoughts, may it be your finest hour all year long! And may the spirit of Christmas live in your hearts forever!

Merry Christmas and God Bless!

Anthony Catanzaro

Saturday, December 19th:

Let it snow, I think?

Hey all, I hope that this entry finds you well, especially if you live on the east coast. Today, as many of you already know, we got hit by a blizzard bringing us roughly 15-20 inches of snow. I must admit, I definitely doubted such accumulations beforehand, but wow! When the snow started coming down, I was all for it until it just kept coming, and coming, and coming. I could barely get outside my front door. My poor dog refused to walk in the snow, and I froze my behind off all day. This is how I know I am getting old. When I was a kid, there would have been nothing better than 20 inches of snow, but now, I find myself wishing it would stop.

Anyhow, I know it's kind of a silly entry, but I just couldn't believe how much snow we got. Hopefully all of you out there are safe, and enjoying the time inside with your families.

I wish you all the best in health, and Happy Holidays!

Eric

Tuesday, December 15th:

Update..

Hey all, I hope that this entry finds you and yours, well. I apologize for it being so long between entries, things have been very hectic. Weddings, family events, my new dog "Rocky," all good stuff. Anyhow, I just wanted to drop you all a line to let you know that after New Year's, be sure to check my blog periodically for some new contests and challenges. I have some interesting things in store.

Also, I plan on expanding and adding much more motivational material to my site. I'll keep you all posted.

As always, wishing you all the best in health,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Sunday, September 6th:

Get in shape, adopt a dog...

Hey all, I hope that this entry finds you well. I am happy to say that my fiancé and I just recently added a member to the family. We just adopted a Boxador (boxer/lab mix) from the shelter. Let me tell you something, this dog is the greatest. Never barks, never makes a mess in the house or chews a thing, and he's the most affectionate dog I have ever seen. As my fiancé says, if we ever had a burglar, Rocky would just lick him to death :)

Another great benefit of having dog, outside of the unconditional love and enjoyment, is the exercise. I have been walking this guy 3X a day. Walking a dog is great aerobic exercise. Rocky and I have a great exercise regimen (okay, maybe I am crazy).

We start off by walking first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, burning just fat as a fuel source. Then mid-afternoon we take another stroll focusing on hills and trails. Finally, late night after a weight workout, we hit the hills again. I know, I must have issues, but all kidding aside, walking a dog can be great exercise for both the dog and his/her owner :)

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. Another reason why having a dog can be great exercise is the trips to the dumpster. I love my dog, I mean, love my dog. But he's a puppy, and although he started off well, recently he has been pooping and peeing in my house on a daily basis. So in addition to the walks, there are always the occasional trips to the dumpster to drop of the waste.

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Saturday, September 5th:

Be committed...

Hey all, I hope that this entry finds you all well and enjoying the holiday weekend with your friends and family. After thinking about a conversation I had the other day with a client, I just had to blog about it. The client said that she was SO busy that she doesn't have the time to meet with her trainer anymore. To be honest, I have never been so baffled.

First off, her trainer lives roughly five minutes away, and in theory, could be at her door most hours of the day, if not, weekends. However, our client felt that there was no flexibility in her day to meet with her trainer. Not only was her trainer extremely confused, but I was dumbfounded.

Let me tell you something, nothing in life comes easy. Building a business is not easy. Performing on "Dancing With The Stars" is not easy. And yes, I'll extend to you that working out is not easy. However, nothing baffles me more than when someone tries to convince me that there is not enough time in the day to work out. Is there enough time to brush your teeth, to watch tv, to check your email 50 times, absolutely!

As the owner of EPT, my job is my life, and I consider our 30 plus trainers to be my family. I bust my behind all day every day to help our team, and assist our trainers in doing what they love, training. Not only have I not missed a week of exercise in 20 years, but most days I find myself getting my workout in around 11 pm. So where am I going with this?

Be honest with yourself. Ask yourself if you are committed, don't lie to yourself. Don't project your failures on anybody but yourself, and that my friends will help you accomplish your goals.

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Thursday, September 3rd:

I'm Back!

Hey all, sorry it has been so long between posts, but I hope this entry finds you all well. Things here on my end have been a bit hectic. My sister got engaged, I got engaged :), adopted a dog, and the list goes on and on. However, I have something new that I am working on and can't wait to tell you about. I can't tell you yet, I am still waiting to get a few ducks in order. However, continue to check my posts and you'll find out soon enough.

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Thursday, May 14th

"Some times you have to swim through the mud to get to the prairie."

Okay, what are you talking about Eric? Let me tell you something, there are so many parallels that can be drawn between exercise, and life in general. Unless your Paris Hilton or something, things aren't always going to be easy. It's not like someone's just going to hand you a million dollars and say do what you want. You have got to earn it.

I know, I know, your tired. You have thirty kids, and you work a 100 hour week, I have heard it all. To be honest, I don't care. The will to succeed doesn't have anything to do with the obstacles one faces, it has to do with inner desire and ambition. There will always be hard times and challenging events in life, that's just the way it is. But, "some times you have to swim through the mud to get to the prairie."

Listen, I consider myself to be one of the luckiest people out there. I have a great career, great girl, and great family. I love what I do everyday, and feel so fortunate, you wouldn't believe. However, was it always this way? Well, anyone who knows me will tell you, the answer is certainly NO ! I have had my share of tough times, and even tougher times unfortunately. But I am sure that all of you out there have. So what do you do, fold the cards and bury your head in your hands? No, you keep getting up and putting your anti down in the pot with the hope that things will get better.

Life's a roller coaster, never get to high, and never get too low. You'll experience great times, followed by the humbling times. However, whether it's exercise or the game of life, just be sure to get back up and put the anti in the pot :)

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Thursday, March 19th:

Almost Spring :)

Hey all, I hope that this entry finds you well. So how about that weather yesterday? If you are like me, you were probably thinking to yourself, "man, spring is right around the corner, time to kick it into gear." That's the interesting thing about that first warm day after the winter, it will really get you thinking. Soon enough the weather will be gorgeous, and it will be time to get out those spring and summer clothes from the back of the closet. Are you ready?

If not, then now is the time. Kick that diet into gear. Get serious about your workout program. Go above and beyond, don't just quit when you start feeling tired. Run that extra lap, do that extra rep. Get motivated!!! After all, bathing suit season is right around the corner :)

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Sunday, March 8th:

A Special Thanks...

Hey all, I hope that this entry find you well. Sorry it has been so long, but things around here have been nuts. I have a few interesting projects that I have been working on, and look forward to sharing in the near future. All of that aside, I just wanted to take the time to thank our clients, as well as our trainers.

Lets face it, the economy has been crazy, and things aren't quite as affordable as they use to be. However, our clients have amazed me by sticking with us, even in this tough time. I wanted to take the time to thank our clients for continuing to invest in our services. I get asked all the time (most recently by journalists) "has the economy been hurting your business." Fortunately, I am able to say that, although the economy has been rough, our company has remained as strong as ever. We owe that all to our great clients and trainers, something that I would never take for granted.

First off, I just wanted to thank our clients. Even in the down turn of the economy, you all continue to support our company and invest in our services. We look forward to working our butts off to continue bringing the best in personal training to you all, and earning your investment.

In addition, I would like to thank our trainers. You all are the best. We have such a great team here at Every Body's Personal Trainer, and I just wanted to thank you guys for all of your hard work and dedication.

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Friday, February 6th:

Given up yet???

Hey everyone, I hope that this entry finds you all well. So it's February, and studies say that by now, 3 out of 4 people have already given up on their New Year's resolutions to workout. Have you given up yet? Are you still being consistent with your workouts and your diet? Are you going to be like everyone else, or are you finally going to make a difference?

Don't get me wrong, I am all for New Year's resolutions. A clean slate is always a very nice thing, and I am all for whatever motivates someone to exercise. However, what does drive me crazy, is how quickly people give up. Listen, nothing comes easy. If you went and talked to a panel of successful people, I guarantee that a common thread for success is hard work and a don't say die attitude. I have been fortunate enough to train many successful people. As I have eluded to in earlier entries, I try to learn as much as I can from my clients, all of whom I admire. What have I found?

Hard work! Discipline! Consistency! Motivation! All of the same traits that it takes to get into shape. Stop making excuses. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Stop waiting for things to line up before you get serious. There is never going to be the perfect time. Stop waiting, make it happen. The only one stopping you is you, not your husband/wife, kids, etc. Get motivated, and get it done.

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Friday January 23rd:

Article from my friend...

Morning Protein Shake
By Dr. Joey Shulman D.C., RNCP Truestarhealth.com Author

Do you grab a muffin or bagel for breakfast as you rush out the front door every morning? Do you skip breakfast in an attempt to cut calories or simply because you do not feel hungry? If so, you are not doing your body a favor. In fact, a recent study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that skipping breakfast was linked with a greater chance of obesity. People who skipped breakfast were more than four times more likely to be obese than those who ate breakfast daily.
A perfect way to start your morning is with a high energy shake that is packed with essential fats, proteins, antioxidant-rich fruits and fiber. Not only are shakes an ideal meal to maintain energy and boost metabolic function for weight loss, they are also incredibly quick and easy to make. Just toss your favorite ingredients into a blender and presto – your meal is ready to eat! From peanut butter chocolate smoothies for chocolate lovers to tangy tropical delights – shakes are a winning breakfast food.

Consider the following tips to include optimal nutrition in your morning shake:

1. For shiny hair and beautiful skin, add some essential fats, such as a tablespoon of flaxseed oil, to your morning shake.

2. Include your favorite fruits and vegetables for a hearty serving of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.

3. Try to use frozen fruit within 2 or 3 weeks as the taste will alter the longer fruit stays in the freezer.

4. Looking for an energy boost? Add some green powder to your am shake to put some extra pep in your step.

5. Add water and/or soymilk to your shake for a liquid base. If you are looking to cut calories, avoid sugary fruit juices.

6. For a creamier shake, add a high quality yogurt.

7. Instead of ice cream, create healthy Popsicles by freezing smoothies made from yogurt.

8. To help keep calories down, use low fat dairy products in your morning shake.

9. Try to drink your shake immediately after making it. Shakes tend to separate and change consistency when left to sit. If you have to make a morning shake in advance, toss it in the blender to mix it before drinking.

10. To prevent your blender from backing up, add liquid first, followed by solid ingredients.

Wednesday, December 31st:

Have a safe New Year's...

Hey everyone, I hope that this entry finds you all well. Yes, New Year's eve is upon us, and unless you are like me and don't have much of a life (I do own two bunnies :) then you are probably going out to celebrate. I just wanted to wish everyone a safe, and happy New Year's. Please be careful, driving around on New Year's can be very scary. Please, if you choose to drink, please do so responsibly (I sound like one of those beer commercials ).

All kidding aside, I hope that everyone has a great night.

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric

Thursday, December 25th:

Happy Holidays...

Hey everyone, I hope that this entry finds you all well, and that you are enjoying the holidays with your loved ones. I am sorry that it has been so long since my last entry, things have been nuts around here. However, I just wanted to take the time to thank all of our clients, and trainers, and wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season.

I know the holidays can get crazy, but remember to workout, and to be conscious of your caloric intake and expenditure. If you can't meet with your trainer, please get your workouts in somehow. It is so easy just to sit back, relax, and eat and neglect your exercise during the holidays. Remember, keep that body moving.

Keep motivated!!!

P.s. Part of my New Years resolution (yes Joanne I believe in New Years resolutions :) is to work more on my blog, and motivational quote sections. I plan on adding lots of motivational content in the near future. I have also made a resolution to go to the dentist for the first time in years :) but that's off topic lol.

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric Leader

Sunday, November 9th:

We are in very good hands...

Hey everyone, I hope that this entry finds you well. Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of working out with an Army Ranger. You see, a client of mine had her son and his family visit for the weekend, and yes, he is an Army Ranger. Knowing his mom well, I had no doubt the apple wouldn't fall far from the tree.

Now remember, I have worked with all sorts of clients. I have worked with collegiate athletes, professional athletes, bodybuilders, power lifters, and some of the strongest willed people you'll ever meet. It takes a lot to impress me when it comes to working out. However, I have to give it to them, this family is special.

After working out with Chris and his mom (who it just so happens use to be a Supervisory Special Agent in the FBI) I was truly in awe, and that does not happen often. First there is Chris, a high ranking member of the Army Rangers, an elite special force unit. This guy wouldn't quit. His muscular endurance, intensity, and ability to recover were top notch. What was also impressive was the fact that Chris carries a lot of muscle, yet can run and match the muscular endurance of someone much lighter. As a trainer, you always gage the intensity of the workout and workload by a client's facial expressions, not this guy. Instead of waiting for his muscles to fail like most normal people, I found myself just asking him to stop. He could have gone all day.

As impressive as Chris was, his mother (and his wife Julie) were right there with him. No one gave up, no one stopped, everyone pushing themselves to the limit. They were tough as nails, something that I have a tremendous amount of respect for.

Well my friends, if the rest of the military is anything even close to this guy, we are in very good hands. Not only is Chris one of the nicest people you'll ever meet, this guy is about as mentally and physically tough as they come.

Keep motivated!!!

I wish you all the best in health and happiness,

Your friend in health,

Eric Leader

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