Posts filed under 'fitness'
I’ve been riding the same bike for 18 years. It’s an “urban mountain” bike, and it weighs a ton. But, it’s not even close to worn out because I simply don’t ride much. But, just the same, inspired by Madison’s “Ride the Drive” today, I thought I’d take a look at what’s out there in stylish-yet-can-haul-kids category. It may finally be time for me to update.
Friends rave about their Madsen “Precious Cargo Bike.” The kids sit in a bucket right behind you, and over the back tire. That way, they’re not way off back yonder enclosed in the chariot (as we call it) and you feel like a singular unit. It feels like you’re keeping them a little tighter to your chest—a good thing especially when riding roadside. And, when there are no kids, you can haul stuff. Very utilitarian. I’m ruining my own chances by telling you this…but you could WIN a FREE bike from Madsen. The company gives one away each week. My friends purchased their new ride at Williamson Bicycle Works, here in Madison, WI.
I also like the looks of WorkCycles bikes, a company known for making “Dutch city bikes.” They’re made in Amsterdam, but there are a few dealers stateside. Dig the Fr8Family bike, with the seat tucked snugly between you and the handlebars. This model can be fitted to carry up to three kids. Rear seat options available, too. Also like the looks of the Onderwater Family Tandem (pic of dad + 2 tinies). Please, let me not have the need for the company’s 12-seater extralong cargo bike.
WorkCycles has other cool child transport bikes, too. And just cool-looking bikes in general. Maybe it’s just that anything Euro or Scandinavian (except the pop music) appeals to this modernist mama.Like this one, the Secret Service ladies bike. 
Wow, and look. I can look ultra stylish on any of the bikes, sporting a skirt instead of something to sweat in. This makes me want to trade in my yoga pants for a wardrobe from Boden, complete with hip trench coat, don some Dansko clogs, and decorate my home with Marimekko patterns.
— Mama Kate
August 30th, 2009
Not sure what to do this weekend? Problem solved. Head downtown this Sunday, August 30, 8am - 2pm, for Ride the Drive, a family-friendly event celebrating the Madison’s commitment to healthy living. A 6-mile loop from John Nolan Drive to East Washington will wrap around Capitol Square, and you can hop in at any point—on foot, bike, or skates—on the “car-free care free city streets.” Along the way you’ll find great events: kids’ bike rodeo, bike/stroller decorating and parade, art cart and obstacle course; adult group exercise classes; tunes in the tunnel underneath Monona Terrace; a block-long picnic; demonstrations; bike tune-ups; workshops with Suzy Favor Hamilton—and too much more to list here. Check out the Ride the Drive site for complete details.
— Mama Kate
August 26th, 2009
We know the drill. Have a kid or two, feel lumpy and soft. You want to exercise, but where do you find the time or an affordable class or gym?
A couple of years ago, we both started training with Dustin Maher through his MamaTone group fitness classes for moms. We can’t say enough about the experience—particularly the fact that it’s great to work out with gals of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels who know what you’re going through. Dustin’s created a fun and supportive community atmosphere in his MamaTone fitness classes at Supreme Health club, and it’s fantastic to have a workout that is geared toward women’s bodies and getting us mommies back in shape fast. We’ve come to believe that we deserve to carve out time for focused exercise, as it makes us feel and look better, and helps us cope with and de-stress from the everyday aspects of momhood. That’s good stuff.
Together with the gals at Bean Sprouts cafe, we’ve created a monthly mommy chat. It’s an opportunity to gather, grow your community of moms, and talk about topics that are of interest to you. This month’s Coffee Talk, at Bean Sprouts, is loaded with inspiration and tips to make getting into shape easy. Dustin will teach 5 body-transforming
exercises you can easily do at home—whether watching the kids in the yard or Oprah on TV. He’ll also advise on exercises to avoid (yes mamas, it’s crunches!), and share nutrition tips on the top metabolism-boosting foods you can eat. You may have heard of Dustin; his fitness advice has been featured on local news casts for NBC, ABC, and CBS, as well as on Wisconsin Public Radio. He’s also founder of Fit Fun Bootcamps, and has recently launched a series of workout videos.
To learn more about Dustin Maher, his workouts and fitness philosophy, visit dustinmaherfitness.com/about-2/. Be sure to visit his site for more details on attending a MamaTone class free, and receiving a free fitness-related gift from Dustin (sign up for his newsletter). On his site, you’ll also be inspired by some amazing body transformations from some of his clients, and appreciate all the fitness and nutrition advice he offers.
Kids are welcome! They can play while we moms enjoy a complimentary cuppa joe and catch up on getting fit. Stay for lunch afterward, and gnosh on Bean Sprouts delish and healthy eats.
No more excuses — we’ll see you at Coffee Talk!
Date: Tuesday, August 18
Time: 10am-11am
FREE! Bring the kids.
Location: Bean Sprouts cafe, 6719 Frank Lloyd Wright Avenue, Suite 101, Middleton, WI 53562. 608.826.6YUM.
— Mama Kate + Mama Jen
August 9th, 2009
Dustin Maher, Madison’s best trainer helps a lot of people with their fitness goals and should be your first stop if you want to get started working out, up your workout, or meet a certain fitness goal.
He is responsible for the phenomenal class called MamaTone that is hands down, the best, most fun class in town—- and focuses on fitness for moms. Great group of women, one-on-one attention from Dustin—and it’s a blast! There are so many times per week that this class goes on, that even if kids get in the way of you making a certain class, there is another time available where you can get your workout in…
You may also have heard about his Bootcamps — life changing workouts that have you playing your way to a better, fitter you! These camps have been very successful in helping people reach their goals.
Check out videos of some of his workouts and his guest spots on the NBC15 news. He also has a new blog at http://www.fatlosstipsforwomen.com/ where you can read some amazing stories of moms who have worked out with Dustin. While you’re there, definitely sign up for his newsletter that is full of little ideas, tips and videos to keep you motivated!
Mama Jen
January 23rd, 2009
Ladies, if you haven’t been to A Stone’s Throw on Madison’s Monroe Street, you must get there. You’ll find great gift ideas — for yourself, and other mamas on your list. Here’s more incentive: The chance to win a $500 Monroe Street Holiday Experience gift basket, or one of three gift cards from A Stone’s Throw this weekend, December 5, 6, & 7.
A Stone’s Throw (”a lifestyle clothing boutique”) offers clothing and shoes with the bent of hip comfort for active gals — things for being casual or spiffing up a bit, and a whole host of wearables that can go from the yoga room or trail to running around town, all in style. I’ve found great wardrobe anchors from Patagonia and Lolé, as well as fun belts and bags, and funky shoes, adorable Water Girl skirts, tanks and tops — and all kinds of other items that let me be active with the kids, but still look fashionable. The store’s other lines include Horny Toad, Prana, Isis, Mountain Hardware, Ibex, Naot … and too many more to list. The bottom line is that if you’re a fan of the Title 9 or Athleta catalogs, then this is the local source for you.
It’s worth signing up to be on the store’s mailing list: You’ll get great, special discount offers. For example, listees get 15 percent off their total purchase this weekend, with a special card mailed to them earlier in the week. The store’s special events througout the year can be crowded try-things-on-in-the-aisle affairs, so get to them early, if you can.
Don’t forget to check out the store’s Upstairs Closet, which offers “recycled” clothing. Sell your gently used pieces, and you’ll have some extra cash to buy new ones.
— Mama Kate
December 4th, 2008
“Fitness and Fun for You and your Little One” is the tag-line of Stroller Jam which will begin its 8 week session indoors at Keva in Middleton November 3rd. The class will be in the mornings, twice a week, so grab you stroller and check it out.
During these sessions, you will get the benefits of a cardiovascular workout and strength training to help you regain your energy, socialize, spend time with your baby, and get back into shape! For more information, visit http://www.kevasports.com/documents/Stroller%20Jam%20Flyer.pdf You can also call about free trial classes so that you and your babe can test drive the class!
Mama Jen
October 8th, 2008
Just a reminder that another six week session of Madison’s ultra-popular Fit Fun Bootcamps with Dustin Maher begins this Monday, August 18th. This class will take you outside for an outside of the box workout that is as fun as it is effective.
Dustin also runs the popular workout class for local moms called MamaTone fitness class at Supreme Health and Fitness.
August 15th, 2008
Dn Dn DNNNNNNNNNN! Bathing suit season is approaching, and below are some words of encouragement from Dustin on how you can quickly get back to pre-winter shape.
The extra winter pounds that were gained throughout the past few months can be taken off before June rolls around. Here are some ideas to get you or your friends and family into summer shape.
- Cut out all processed chips, cookies, and candy.
- Cut out all diet or regular soda.
- Don’t eat seconds
- Weight train 3 days a week.
- Find a workout buddy
- Join a gym
- Hire a trainer
- Do high intensity cardiovascular training
- Get at least 7 hours of sleep
- Instead of going out to dinner and a movie, take a hike around a lake or park
Watch for our post coming up on Dustin’s Summer Boot Camps where you can get your workout on outside! He’ll have you using the park, and park equipment to tone up for summer! Something you can always do when you take your family to the park.
You can learn more about him in the bio under FitMama on our site. His website is undergoing renovations…
For more info now, email Dustin at dustinmaherfitness@gmail.com.
April 21st, 2008
For quite a while now, we have participated in the phenomenal MamaTone Fitness class that local trainer Dustin Maher put together. Currently the class is offered everyday of the week at Supreme Health and Fitness on Odana Rd and he has added a 10 week class in Waunakee beginning April 3rd.
The 10 week class in Waunakee will be offered at the wonderful new Village Center Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10am, so sign up now to reserve a spot for you and a friend!
This class never gets boring because of the supportive and fun moms who attend and the fabulous circuit that changes weekly. Dustin welcomes moms of all fitness levels to come and see how rewarding and fun his class is!
Mama Jen
March 26th, 2008
