My Journey in Finding Work / Life / Fitness Balance

Fitness blogger Bella Hibbs share work/life/fitness blance

Fitness blogger Bella Hibbs share tips for fitness/work balance

Fitness blogger Bella Hibbs share tips for fitness/work balance

Fitness blogger Bella Hibbs share work/life/fitness blance

Fitness blogger Bella Hibbs in Pink workout sweater

I get a lot of questions on how I find time to workout or make fitness a priority when I run my own business and have now started my own conference. Well, in short, I don’t always feel like I have total balance over work, life, and fitness but I do have some tips that have helped me over the years.

  1.  Two nights on and one night off rule- Years ago I watched a YouTube video about only allowing two nights in a row of events/meetings/gatherings and then by the third night you should “take a night off”. This rule for me has really helped me learn to say no, which we will talk more about next. So when I’m planning events or thinking about accepting an invitation I look at my calendar first that way I don’t spread myself too thin. It can be tempting to say yes to every event/meeting/gathering but you have to be realistic with your time.
  2. Learning to say no- I have a hard time being a people pleaser and I say yes, yes and yes to everything without being realistic of my limitations. Learning to say no or prioritize certain events over others. By saying no to events or gatherings gives me time to meal prep, workout or just spend time with my husband and dog. I can’t stress this tip enough, by saying no you are taking care of yourself.
  3. Timing- Figure out your best timing to work out. Personally, for me, I am a morning person, so if I know I have a jammed pack day I will get up extra early to work out. I know after a long day there is very little chance I will go to the gym so I make sure do it first thing in the morning.
  4. Goal setting– Have a clear fitness plan. Are you looking to lose weight, maintain or gain? Over the holidays I get pretty lax with my diet but I also give my body time to rest and enjoy the holidays. For the spring I kick it into high gear and go back to regular workout sessions and clean up my diet. You have do have clear goals in order to find balance. Ask yourself what do you want from your fitness plan, then find a way to add it into your routine.
  5. Staying motivated– The best thing to help stay motivated is to have a good tribe. Find a group of friends or group training classes and this will help keep you motivated to show up. When your around like minded people it will help you stay on track.
  6. Give yourself a Break- Truly sometimes in life, some things have to take a backseat, that’s just the way it is. So don’t beat yourself up if fitness isn’t your first priority, you are doing the best you can in that moment. When I launched my conference it was right after Thanksgiving, so between all the holiday madness and getting this conference off the ground I didn’t workout that much. I used my time to focus on my new business and that’s okay! Learning not to beat yourself up or feel guilty about missing a workout is so important for your mental health.

I hope you use these tips and that they help you find your journey with fitness, work and life. Again I feel like I’m just figuring out as I go but that’s okay. Keep going after your dreams and everything will workout.

Photography by Stacey Poterson

The New Protein Bar Taking Over the Market- Atlas Protein Bars

Atlas Protein Bar Fitness Blogger

Atlas Protein Bar that has 15 grams of protein

Fitness blogger shares Atlas Protein Bars

Atlas Protein Bars are the new best

Fitness Blogger Bella Hibbs shares why At

Fitness Blogger

Blogger Bella Hibbs Shares The Newest Protein Bar

If you are in need of a high protein healthy new snack than you have to check out Atlas protein bars! Let me be the first to say over the years I have tried probably tried every protein bar on the market. I use to eat Quest bars like they were going out of style but a few years back they changed their formulas and I no longer like their bars. So I was on the hunt for a new bar that fit my needs. Most protein bars either aren’t all that healthy or they taste very dry and chalky. I tried Atlas bars last October and I was totally hooked, these are the best bars I have tried. Atlas protein bars are truly taking over the market because they taste so good.

Atlas bars were around 200 to 220 calories depending on the flavor, 15 grams of protein, 3 grams of sugar (naturally sweetened with monk fruit) and 4-5 net carbs! You really couldn’t ask for a better protein bar. Atlas protein bars launched 3 new flavors last fall, mint chocolate chip, almond chocolate chip and peanut butter & raspberry. These bars not chalky at all and have so much flavor. Plus protein bars are great on those long busy work days and you can order them on directly or on Amazon!

Photography by Stacey Poterson

 

Cinco de Mayo Outfit and Deals

Cinco de Mayo for women

Cinco de Mayo dress for women

Cinco de Mayo fashion for women

Women's dress under $50 for Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is less than a week away and first of all I can think is where is did 2019 go and where can I get a deal on tacos! I have rounded up some fun Cinco de Mayo outfit inspiration plus local deals happening around the Scottsdale /Phoenix area!

This exact dress is from Charming Charlie at Desert Ridge Marketplace.

Now that you found an outfit here are local deals to check out!

Barrio Queen – Food and drink specials, including $4 tacos, $7 chips and guacamole, mix-and-match beer buckets (5 for $20).

Macayo Mexican Restaurants– Drink specials, $3 Dos XX Lager, $4 Fireball Shots, $5 Margarita de Macayo, 16 oz. Grande Size, $6 Beer & Shot Special, Dos XX Lager & Choice of Fireball or 1800 Reposado.

Hula’s Modern Tiki– Signature Lilikoi Margarita will be $6, from 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. After 6 p.m., treat yourself and a friend to 2-for-1 Lilikoi Margaritas with purchase of a starter or entree.

The Vig– Taco platters and pozole for $2 off and $3 Dos Equis.

Plus check out Blancos Tacos and Tequila, Loco Patron and Sandbar on Instagram to see specials they are offering. I hope you have a fun and safe Cinco de Mayo! Enjoy lots of tacos!

A Lozenge That Stops Sugar Cravings!!

I did a 30 day no sugar challenge to start the new year off right. Giving up sugar was HARD! My sister showed me Sweet Defeat, and I was blown away on how well it worked! Sweet Defeat is a lozenge that tastes like a mint and you let dissolve on your tongue, then if you try and eat sugar you can’t taste the sugar! The formula blocks the sweet taste receptors on your tongue so you can’t taste sugar.

sweet defeat really works!

I carry Sweet Defeat everywhere I go! These are great for getting rid of sugar cravings or helping you eat in moderation. It will last about 20-30 minutes, so just long enough for the craving to pass. Try to wait to drink anything once you take the lozenge because the liquid will take off the film on your tongue. Don’t worry Sweet Defeat is only 5 plant-based, natural ingredients, gymnema, zinc, sorbitol, mint and spirulina extract!
Fitness blogger loves sweet defeat

Be sure to watch the full video to learn more about Sweet Defeat! I can’t say enough good things about this product.

Learn About The Ultimate Fitcation!

Get your calendars out and block off February 28th to March 3rd because the 3 Day Fitness and Yoga Party is coming to Scottsdale, Arizona!

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This event is the ultimate fitcation you need to attend. Spend 3 days at the beautiful Adeline hotel while enjoying all things fitness! Everything from guided yoga sessions, wellness workshops on nutrition and personal empowerment to overall networking with like-minded people.

This isn’t a conference where you are sitting inside all day listening to panels and speakers for 8 hours. This is a fitcation where you are up and moving around while connecting with other fitness enthusiast. Each morning you will start with a healthy chef prepared breakfast followed by a poolside yoga session. Then in the afternoons, you can choose between varies different fitness activities that fit your interests. Activities include a fitness crawl, paddleboard yoga or even a Super Circuit Obstacle Course. After all your fitness activities you will enjoy a nice healthy dinner followed by a fun sunset pool party.  There will be over 40+ specialists at the event either speaking or guiding workouts, so there is something for everyone.

3 Day Fitness and Yoga Party in Scottsdale -must go to event!

One thing I personally love is that every ticket includes 3 healthy chef-prepared meals per day! All the meals will be using the freshest local and organic ingredients and don’t worry they will have vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, paleo and pescatarian options. This is so great because now you don’t have to pack and lug around all your meals, you can just focus on the session, networking and enjoying your time. They also have different packages that do include food and drinks.

This 3-day yoga, fitness, fun, food empowerment event will be something you don’t want to miss! If you are interested in attending this one of a kind event click here for tickets. You can also use a discount code to save 10% – “Bella10”

Fitness blogger going on a fitcation

I hope to see all there! Comment below if you are interested in going.

 

Healthy High Protein Snack for the New Year!

Fitness blogger gets healthy in 2019

Going into the new year I’m sure you have lots of amazing goals that have something to do with health and fitness! As you may know, that diet is the most important part of any weight loss goal, but some habits are hard to break.

I personally love to snack all day long but that can add up to a lot of unwanted calories. The best way to succeed with your goals is to identify your habits and see if you can find a healthy substitution.

Today I’m sharing with you an amazing high protein snack that will keep you on track this year! Saffron Road chickpeas are packed with 6 grams of protein, vegan and come in lots of different flavors so you won’t get bored.

Saffron Road Chickpeas Snacks

tasty high protein snack for the new year

These Saffron Roads chickpeas can be eaten on their own as a snack or you can add a little extra protein to your salads or hummus. I personally love just eating them on their own and I love the wasabi flavor! The wasabi flavor is very spicy, I personally love that spice but if you don’t then go for the classic sea salt flavor. This snack has really helped me be able to snack throughout the day without satisfying my goals. I feel good about eating them since there are 6 grams of protein per serving and very filling. You can buy the bag or they also have individual packages that are great lunches.

Fitness blogger shares high protein snack

Here is a list of all their flavors they sell on Amazon! As you can see these chickpeas are very healthy and a great addition to your meal plan. Plus you have to try their new flavor salted caramel, these are so tasty. There is a little less protein for the salted caramel but it’s great if you want something sweet. I also suggest measuring out the salted cameral ones so you are eating the correct serving size.

Chickapea flavors, Saffron Road high snack

High protein snack for the new year

You can find Saffron Road products on Amazon, Safeway and a few other grocery stores depending on where you live, I suggest using the store locator on their website. Overall I can’t recommend these chickpeas enough!

Photography by Phuong Nguyen at PNK Fotography

The Saffron Road graciously sent me products to try, but as always, opinions expressed on Hibbs Life & Style are independent and comprehensive.

Holiday Fitness Gift Guide

I put together some of my favorite fitness products that would a great gift to your friends and family members. All these products can also be found on Amazon which makes shopping super easy. These are all products I already use and love so I know you will love them too!

Holiday Fitness Gift Guide

  1. Athleema Resistance Bands– These bands are amazing if you watch my YouTube videos you see me use these bands all the time! I have had them for over 3 years and they have not broken once! Resistance bands can provide a killer workout and they are great to travel with!
  2. Wake Up Waffles– Wake Up Waffles is a great way to start your day off right with 23 grams of protein per serving, gluten-free, and all you have to do is just add water! Also, they have 8 different flavors to choose from plus they have a keto and vegan mix.
  3. Athleema Jump Rope– This jump rope is great because it’s adjustable for all heights, lightweight and a great way to keep your heart rate up during all your workouts.
  4. 90 Degree By Reflex High Waisted Leggings– I love 90 Degree by Reflex clothes! They are great quality and affordable. They offer lots of different styles and colored leggings but my favorite is the high waisted tummy control leggings!
  5. Basic Workout Tanks– You can’t go wrong with a couple of solid color workout tanks. The material is very soft and great to workout in. I personally have blue and white tanks. If you get the white tank I would suggest sizing up so that it isn’t too sheer.
  6. Walden Farms Syrup– I definitely would suggest getting Walden Farms 0 zero calories if you want some delicious syrup for your waffles! I also will mix in Walden Farms into my oatmeal! You can also find Walden Farms at Sprouts or Fry’s.
  7. Saffron Road Organic Crunchy Chickpea’s– This is a great healthy and delicious snack to gift someone. These chickpeas come in 6 different flavors, are packed with 6 grams of protein per serving and have no artificial flavors or colors!
  8. The Good Chocolate– This chocolate has zero sugar, vegan and very low carb! This is a great healthy treat that will help anyone stay on track with their fitness goals. There are six flavors to choose but mint is my favorite!

*This article contains affiliate links*

How to Style Women’s Athleisure Wear Featuring Bella Hibbs

How to Style Women's Athleisure Wear by Bella Hibbs

How to Style Women's Athleisure Wear by Bella Hibbs in New York

How to Style Women's Athleisure Wear by Bella Hibbs in New York

How to Style Women's Athleisure Wear by Bella Hibbs Fitness Blogger

How to Style Women's Athleisure Wear from Fitness blogger AZ

Fitness blogger shares how to style workout clothes

A rapidly growing trend is athleisure style and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. The amazing thing about athleisure wear is that there is almost no wrong way to wear it because it’s all about comfort. Love this idea of style and comfort but not sure how to pull it off? Check out these easy style tips.

    1. Find your base item– This can be a simple black pair of leggings that you build upon by adding in a fun pop of color or playful prints. By having a base item this will make it easier to build an entire outfit.
    2. Mix and match with regular clothes– Don’t be afraid to mix and match regular clothes with your athleisure pieces. Throw on a jean jacket or a ball cap to pull the look together. If you are using your gym clothes to workout than run errands, then be sure to grab some regular clothes to pull your look into a trendy chic (instead of a sweaty gym rat).
    3. Accessorize– Beyond just leggings and tanks try to think how you can pull the whole look off. Easy go-to accessories are sunglasses, chunky purse or sporty watch will always do the trick.
    4. Go for style– It’s important to remember while athleisure is all about comfort you still want to put a little bit of time into planning your outfit. Don’t just throw old sweatpants and an old t-shirt. The goal is to still look put together but in a comfy way.
    5. Get some cool kicks– You want your outfit to look trendy from head to toe, so you can’t forget about shoes. Having some fun bright colored sneakers can really make your outfit pop or bring the whole outfit together. You will want to take care of your shoes and from time to time clean them off so they don’t look too worn in.

Photography by Jordan Hibbs Photography

Starbucks Coffee and Other Healthy Options

Fitness blogger's go to starbucks drinks

fitness blogger who loves starbucks

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healthy snack and drink you can get at starbucks

Get a healthy snack at starbucks

Quick and easy healthy snack from starbucks

fitness blogger's favorite low calorie starbuck drinks

Fitness blogger eats at Starbucks , learn the healthy drinks and foods

I am a huge fan of meal prepping for the week but even I sometimes run out of the house without enough food. It’s better to eat something than not eating at all. If you don’t eat and skip meals you are more likely to binge later. My go-to snack right now is Starbucks yogurt parfaits with a black coffee. With 14 grams of protein, and a good source of a probiotic you can’t go wrong.

I understand not everyone drinks their coffee black so here are a few low-calorie drink options that are under 100 calories.

  • Caffe latte- tall, non-fat milk
  • Cinnamon dolce latte- skinny tall, non- fat milk
  • Caramel macchiato- skinny, tall, non- fat milk

Have you tried Starbucks yogurt parfaits? What’s your favorite snack from Starbucks?

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Photography by Jordan Hibbs Photography

4 Ways to Lose Body Fat Without Sacrificing Your Lifestyle

find a good relationship with food from these 4 healthy tips

trendy fitness blogger that has 4 tips to lose weight

you don't have to diet to lose weight, see my 4 tips to lose body fat

lose weight with these 4 tips from fitness blogger bella hibbs

classic black nike sports bra fitness blogger bella hibbs

learn to lose weight without dieting fitness blogger

fitness blogger in black nike fashion outfit

Let me first start out by saying I am not competing for any bikini competition right now. I am about 7-10 pounds up from my competition weight, which is totally natural. Right now I want to slim down just a little bit but the thought of going back on a diet and saying no to happy hour just doesn’t sound appealing. With these 4 tips not only have I been able to lose a little weight but I have also started creating a healthy relationship with food. I hope these tips will help you as they have helped me 🙂

1. Drink lots of water throughout the day. When your dehydrated your body can think it’s hungry and those end up being wasted calories. If you aren’t a big fan of water try a club soda, or add lemon to your water.

2. Find easy swaps for your favorite foods. You don’t have to give up for favorite foods, just find healthy swaps. Almost every food has some sort of healthy swap here are a few of my favorite swaps.

  • Sour cream »»»» plain greek yogurt
  • French fries »»»» air popped popcorn
  • Mayo »»»» Mustard
  • Maple syrup  »»»»  Walden farms zero calorie syrup
  • Wine »»»» Fit Vine Wine or Skinnygirl wine

3. You have to get moving! I encourage you to try weight lifting but I understand that isn’t for everyone. Find what you enjoy, this can be a group fitness class, swimming, hiking etc. Also in your everyday activity, park in the back of the lot, take the stairs at work or take the dog on an extra walk.  You will burn more calories and distract you from food. I have been using a Fitbit for 3 years now and LOVE it! My goal is to get 10,000 steps every day even on rest days. It’s a great way to keep track!

4. The biggest key to losing weight is to be in a calorie deficit. Calories in versus calories out (burned). This is good because once you know your maintenance level of calories you need to consume then you can add in the foods you already love. You can achieve this by eating less, burning more calories or a combination of both. This is similar to macro counting. As always I suggest still adding in proteins, healthy fats and veggies etc but this way you can also still enjoy the foods you love without binging! All foods are okay in moderation.

Tell me what your favorite food swaps are?

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Photography by Jordan Hibbs Photography