Feel The Joy!

I have to be honest -- I didn't want to post this picture for Fitness Friday. I immediately went to that negative place where I critiqued every aspect of my body. It still surprises me that just when I think I have this "body image thing" under control, I fall back into old habits.

Then something told me to look at this photo again. When I removed that negative filter, I saw a wonderful moment of joy! What a great feeling, to jump high and reach for the stars! This photo also represents a feeling of gratitude -- my dream of creating a company centered around my core values of supporting and empowering women has become a reality.

I'm also feeling grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with my high school classmate Isti Wallace (aka LilyRising.com) for this Fitness Friday series. I can't wait to see where Isti's passion for encouraging women to be healthy and fit takes her.

So we've worked on our arms -- now it's time for our shoulders!

This week's exercise post focuses on the "dumbbell upright row." This exercise is fantastic for building our upper trapezius muscles and shoulders. Combined with the tricep extensions and bicep curls, all three exercises provide a starting point to getting those arms and shoulders toned. And these simple exercises can be done anywhere - home or gym!

I hope you've enjoyed our Fitness Friday series -- maybe we've inspired you to revisit your favorite exercises to make you look and feel your best!

Please take a moment to visit this week's featured post. We love hearing from you, feel free to give us your comments and feedback!

hoose a pair of dumbbells and stand with your feet at around shoulder-width apart. Grasp the dumbbells with an overhand grip (palms facing down) and place them on your thighs.

While keeping your back straight, lift the dumbbells straight up in front of your chest, to just below chin level.

Keep them as close to your body as possible. Pause, and then slowly lower the dumbbells back down to the front of your thigh area, and repeat for desired reps.

Aim for 3 sets x 10–12 reps.