Healthy Cooking & Recipes - Elements Barre Fit

Health Benefits of Matcha

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 30, 2021

Walking through any town in The Hamptons, you are likely to see plenty of people holding a bright green iced drink. Wondering what it is? It’s called matcha, a Japanese green tea powder produced from dried tea leaves. This vibrant drink not only makes the perfect iced beverage for the summer, but is packed with health benefits. Keep reading to learn about the many health benefits of matcha!

High In Antioxidants

Matcha is a great source of antioxidants, containing up to 130 times the amount present in green tea. Increasing your antioxidant intake has several health benefits including helping prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and promoting weight loss.

Increases Productivity

Matcha is a source of caffeine, which reduces fatigue and improves concentration. However, unlike coffee, matcha also contains an amino acid that prevents overstimulation. These components together increase overall productivity.

Reduces Inflammation

Matcha has anti- inflammatory properties which have been found to benefit individuals who suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Boosts Immune System

Matcha’s anti- inflammatory properties additionally support the immune system. Reduced inflammation increases the body’s ability to fight pathogens. In addition, the chlorophyll present in matcha, which creates its vibrant green color, help detoxify the body from chemicals and toxins.

Best Ingredients to Cook Healthy Meals in The Hamptons This Summer

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 28, 2021

One of the many amazing things about The Hamptons is the fresh food. With farm stands galore, the flavorful ingredients are endless. We searched East Hampton for the best summer ingredients for you to cook delicious meals with!

Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are the perfect ingredient to add a pop of summer to any dish. No matter what your tomato preference is, East Hampton farmers markets have you covered. Try making these mini caprese kebabs as a delicious and easy appetizer!

Berries

Fresh berries bring a delicious sweet flavor to any recipe. Whether you love berries in sweet or savory dishes, they are the perfect addition to any summer meal. Add a handful of berries to your breakfast for extra flavor and antioxidants, or enjoy them on the beach as a sweet and refreshing snack!

Corn

What’s a summer barbeque without corn on the cob? Pick up fresh corn from a farm stand to enjoy a sweet flavor you can’t find in the grocery store. Simply throw them on the grill or whip up a summer corn salad.

Watermelon

A fresh watermelon screams summer. East Hampton farm stands are the place to find a perfect watermelon that never disappoints. Cut it up and bring it to the beach as a refreshing snack, or add it into creative recipes. Make a watermelon, tomato and feta salad that is sure to be a hit.

Peaches

There is nothing like a fresh, juicy peach from an East Hampton farm stand. Enjoy eating a fresh peach for a sweet bite of summer. Try making your peaches into a delicious peach cobbler for a fruit- filled dessert your family is sure to love!

Tips to Stay Healthy While on Vacation

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 28, 2021

Include exercise as a vacation activity

A hike, bike ride or beach walk is the perfect addition to any day on vacation. Whether you’re with family or friends, opt for a bonding activity that gets your body moving. Choose a location that will be worth the trip, with scenic views that will make for great photos.

Cook or order meals with fresh, local ingredients

Wherever you are enjoying your vacation, meals with local and fresh ingredients are both delicious and healthy. In the Hamptons, choose meals with fresh produce and fish. Explore the endless tasty options packed with nutrients to keep you feeling your best.

Pack snacks

Whether your vacation means exploring a new city or laying on the beach, it is important that your body is properly nourished. Choose to pack snacks to avoid relying on less healthy options. Some examples of healthy snacks on the go are nuts, protein bars, carrots, apples and bananas.

Have the treat!

Vacation destinations can be filled with sweet treats that make your mouth water. Instead of restricting yourself, choose to enjoy the treat. Indulging will not break your health progress. In fact, it has been found that consuming desserts every once in a while can help reduce the urge to binge on sugar later on.

Take time for yourself

However you define “you time,” it is a necessity on vacation. Find time to do what you love to relax and rejuvenate yourself before returning to the hectic energy of everyday life. Whether that means reading a book, listening to your favorite music, or having your favorite drink, find the time and enjoy!

Just Finished Barre Class? Fun and Healthy Ways To Spend Your Day in The Hamptons

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 12, 2021

Just finished your Elements Barre class in East Hampton? No worries, there are still plenty of fun, healthy ways to spend the remainder of your day in the Hamptons other than relaxing on the beach! Check out these ideas:

Pick up fresh food at a farm stand

East Hampton has countless farm stands stocked with fresh foods. Whether you’re seeking a snack or an ingredient in an elaborate recipe, stop by the nearest farm stand. Pick up freshly grown fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and even homemade sauces and desserts. Check out the East Hampton Farmers Market each Friday and Sunday for a wide array of fresh foods from multiple sellers.

Cook a healthy meal

Cooking a healthy meal is the perfect use for fresh ingredients from the farm stand. Whether you are experimenting in the kitchen or using a cookbook, the options are endless. Choose a family favorite and admire the power of fresh foods. Pack your meal up and bring it to the beach at sunset for a special evening.

Go kayaking or paddle boarding

In the mood to be active in the water instead of laying on the beach? Go kayaking or paddle boarding from some of East Hamptons most beautiful beaches. Check out Louse Point or Cedar Point Park for calm water and beautiful views! Elements also offers SUP Excursions and Events, where we provide the paddles and boards, location, and instruction if you’re new to the board. Email us at [email protected] to schedule a session!

Find a book to read

Not sure how to spend your beach days? Stop by Book Hampton and search for a book that inspires you. With so many options, there is no doubt that you can find a read that will help you achieve personal growth this summer.

Go on a bike ride

Not quite sunny enough for a beach day? Hop on your bike and explore East Hampton. With so many scenic routes, you’ll enjoy every minute of it! Take a ride down Gerard Drive, or simply take a family bike ride into town for lunch.

Quick and Easy Post Workout Snacks

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 08, 2021

Do you ever find yourself racing to get to work, drive the kids to camp, or get your beach day started after a tough workout? We often prioritize fueling before a workout, yet neglect the need to get in a nutritious post workout snack. However, this snack may be just as important as the workout itself. Fueling your body directly after a workout, specifically by consuming both protein and carbohydrates, allows your muscles to repair and your body to recover properly.
To help you feel your best this summer, we have created a list of quick and easy post workout snacks!

Greek Yogurt with Berries

Greek yogurt is a great protein source, packed with calcium to support bone health, and probiotics to support gut health. Adding fresh berries, a carbohydrate and antioxidant, creates a delicious post workout snack. Stop at your favorite farm stand and stock up on fresh berries for this delicious snack.

Banana or Apple with Nut Butter

Bananas and apples are great carbohydrate sources, and perfect for taking on the go. Pair it with a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter, and you have a nutrient dense post workout snack. Nut butters are not only packed with protein, but also healthy fats that support cardiovascular health. Opt for nut butter packets for a grab-and-go snack.

Veggies or Crackers and Hummus

Hummus is packed with protein and has been proven to fight inflammation and promote gut health. Whether store bought or homemade, this delicious dip can be paired with your favorite veggies or crackers for the perfect post workout snack.

Protein Smoothie

Smoothies are not only a great way to get in your favorite fruits and vegetables this summer, but an ideal post workout option. Fill your blender with your go-to fruits, throw in some vegetables for extra nutrients, and add your favorite protein powder. Try some fun combinations like chocolate banana, kale pineapple, or blueberry vanilla.

How to Beat the Heat with Outdoor Workouts this Summer

Elements Staff Published On: Dec 07, 2020

Outdoor workouts are trending right now, and for good reason. With coronavirus still prevalent, working out outdoors allows for more distance between you and your buds and more fresh air circulation. Plus, in a lot of places, gyms and fitness studios are either completely closed or only open in a limited capacity.

While working out in the great outdoors is an awesome alternative, it comes with its own obstacles. Exercising is already hot and sweaty inside, how can you survive taking it outside? And what if it rains? Read on for tips on beating the heat with your summer workouts!

Drink Plenty of Water

The hotter it is, the more you sweat. The more you sweat, the more you need to drink water. Staying hydrated to avoid feeling tired and dizzy, two common side effects of dehydration. Not a huge fan of H20? Try adding fruit, like watermelon or strawberries, or swapping out still for sparkling water. Coconut water is another good option, as it has natural electrolytes.

Wear Sunscreen

Whether you’re outside for 30 minutes or 3 hours, be sure you slap on some sunscreen. Be sure to reapply at least every 2 hours, and right after you swim or sweat.

Find Some Shade

Try to workout near some shade, like a tree, so you can escape the sun if you’re feeling overheated. If you plan to workout outside often, or if you live somewhere with unpredictable weather, you might want to invest in a canopy tent that can easily be put up in case there’s any light rain, or it’s 115 degrees and you need a sun break.

The Growing Importance of Workplace Wellness In Small Business

Elements Staff Published On: Dec 07, 2020

The Growing Importance of Workplace Wellness In Small Business

If you’re busy thinking of new ways to both attract top talent and keep your current employees happy and engaged, you’re not alone! According to the SunTrust Banks annual Business Pulse Survey, about half of small and mid-sized businesses felt that attracting and retaining employees would be their most significant challenge.

https://www.pilotonline.com/inside-business/article_40e27f38-31f5-11e8-a548-3b0adedf003f.html

Although recruiting and retaining employees is a challenge that all businesses face, it may be even more difficult for SMBs due to smaller budgets and fewer resources. If you’re looking for a quick solution or a good place to start, consider implementing a wellness program for your employees.

Wellness is a proven, effective tool for recruiting new talent. Plus an engaged, healthy, and happy workforce is likely to stick around longer. Improved recruiting and retention, as well as reduced health care costs and absenteeism, can impact small businesses in big ways.

When it comes to company culture, making the effort to improve the health and well-being of your employees won’t go unnoticed. Don’t let the size of your company or allotment of resources be a reason to fall behind the employee wellness trend. For more information about Elements’ Corporate Wellness Program, email us at [email protected]!

3 Tips for a Healthier You

Elements Staff Published On: Dec 07, 2020

Founder Andrea’s Tips for a Healthier You

Eating healthy, feeling strong, and fueling from the inside out is the quickest way to becoming the happiest and healthiest version of yourself!

Check out Founder and CEO Andrea’s 3 tips for integrating healthy habits, exercises, and foods into your everyday!

Tip 1

Weights, Cardio, Protein, Power:

How increasing these 4 powerhouses can optimize your training.

1. Weights: adding wrist or ankle weights to cardio activity increases the workload, meaning you’ll burn calories in a shorter amount of time.

2. Cardio: cardio activity in conjunction with sculpting & toning exercises increases the metabolic rate, which helps the body burn calories more efficiently.

3. Protein- increasing the intake of protein helps muscle function and builds strength. Protein powers the body to build and 3strengthen. You can find protein in powders, lean meat, tofu, and beans.

4. Power- increasing the intensity of your work out STEADILY over time helps the body to gain greater overall health, rather than, for example, adding 50 lbs to your deadlift overnight, which can lead to injury and burnout.

Tip 2:

Ditch the stationary equipment:

Hit the mat & hit the floor.

I see a ton of clients with horrible hip and low back injuries from increased use of indoor stationary equipment.

The body does not move perfectly parallel, however indoor cycle bikes, elliptical machines, and such have a property called sheer force, which holds the equipment in place, forcing the body to only work in one plane of motion. This causes pain and, over time, injury. It’s best to include cardio routines that use weight bearing, free moving exercises, allowing the body to move across all planes of motion with ease. Things like HIIT classes, dance classes, and barre classes are great options.

If you do have an injury, consider rehabbing by focusing on mat pilates exercises to regain strength while allowing the injury to heal. It’s always best to consult a physician if you experience persistent pain or ongoing problems.

Tip 3:

Matcha & Bars:

Yummy energy boosters.

I particularly like to add Matcha and healthy protein bars to my clients’ diets as it helps them curve cravings and boost the metabolism. Matcha is a natural source of energy and caffeine. Regular use in the diet can actually speed up the metabolism by helping the body burn calories faster and more efficiently. It can replace coffee altogether, and mixed with coconut milk is a great non-dairy latte option.

In addition, RxBars are my new favorite grab and go snack, as they are power packed with lots of protein and help the body sustain energy for long periods of time. RxBars are a great supplement as you run from meeting to meeting and have no time for a full meal. This helps the body avoid high and low spikes in blood sugar, which can make you feel both jittery and sluggish.