Goofing off after a full extreme day of filming and running
Tallapoosa, Georgia? Do you mean Tallahassee, Florida? HA HA, that's exactly what I said when I found out that the BattleFrog Atlanta event was not actually in Atlanta, but over an hour away from the city. At any rate, the Foxwoods venue in Tallapoosa was the perfect setting for a butt-kicking good time! WATCH VIDEO BELOW
The guys who make BattleFrog Series one of the Top OCR Races in the World
I was there filming for my Not-For-Profit media project OCRTUBE.com along with my fellow partner in crime, and Beachbody Coach Amanda Nelson. We had an absolute blast chasing some of the BEST athletes in the world. We took full advantage of our Beachbody PerformanceHYDRATE to ensure that we could last all day, and trust me, we KILLED some RECOVER soon after, well.....after we took a shower at a truck stop lol. That's how you get the MUD off when you travel from race to race. Ok, maybe you don't understand ha ha, so maybe just enjoy this beautiful bean footage from this amazing, but brutal OCR event.
The Beachbody Meets OCR Online Challenge is quite simple. The goal is to help anyone, with any fitness level train and prepare for an obstacle course race (OCR) using Beachbody Fitness and Nutrition.
"I have raced with, filmed, and interviewed the best in OCR"
What makes this different from any other program?
Let's face it, there are plenty of workouts and OCR training programs out there, it's all about finding a program that works best for you, and is catered to your level of fitness and goals. I can help you with that. When you take on the challenge, you will also have the opportunity to GIVE BACK to charities such as Hope for the Warriors, Operation Enduring Warrior, and other charities (you choose who you would like to give back to). When you purchase a Beachbody Challenge Pack from me, partial proceeds will benefit the charity of your choice.
"Our Focus is to help people train for a race, stay active, and give back to the community"
Hope for the Warriors
What are some of the Beachbody Challenge Programs?
Beachbody offers plenty of workout programs complete with exercises, fitness and nutrition guides, and the most important piece of the puzzle, Shakeology Nutrition. Some of the most popular Beachbody Challenges that are used for OCR are: P90X (there are plenty of P90X varieties), Insanity, Insanity Asylum, Body Beast, Max 30, and PIYO just to name a few. We encourage all challengers to incorporate some running with all of these programs.
"I have learned from the best in OCR and combined it with my passion as a Beachbody Coach"
How does it work?
It's a very simple process! Just message me here directly, and I will send you a Free Online Fitness Assessment. Based on your level of fitness and goals, I will provide you with options to help you train for a race, or get in the best shape of your life. I will also provide you with information on how your challenge pack purchase will benefit the charity of your choice. You will receive a copy of your offering to ensure that your donation is used for the sole-purpose of giving back.
After you have purchased a Beachbody Challenge Pack, you will then be added to my exclusive "invitation only" Private Online Accountability Group to get the BEST results. You will receive FREE Online Coaching from me, and get weekly access to my LIVE video chats. This group of like-minded challengers will help you with motivation, accountability, and top-notch camaraderie.
Are you an Entrepreneur? Are you a go-getter, do you love helping people? I am always looking for like-minded, strong (inner-strength) people to join my Coach Team. If you have a passion for helping people and are very SUCCESS-ORIENTED, I'd like to chat with you about the possibilities. Message me here for consideration.
What do you get when you have 2,000 people and 30+ solid obstacles in the swamp lands of Clermont, Florida on Halloween Night? Well folks, it's called the Monster Challenges Halloween Edition =) I had the opportunity to film this small homegrown obstacle course race, and it was an absolute blast, check out the video here:
Monster Challenges - Halloween 2015
If you are ever in the Florida area, check out the Monster Challenges and give it a shot, you won't be disappointed, tell them Arnel sent you! =) Visit Monster Challenges here.
Would you like to train for the next obstacle course race or mud run? I've been to almost every type of obstacle race out there. I've filmed and participated in races all over the USA and Canada. I have coached people online through their health and fitness, and I would be happy to help you too! Feel free to message me for some FREE advice on how you can train for your next race using Beachbody Fitness and Nutrition, I'll coach you for FREE! Looking forward to chatting with you!
I recently decided to do a second round of the Insanity Challenge, something that I haven't done in a couple years. With Beachbody coming out with workouts that you can do in 25 to 30 minutes, I started to get used to the short workouts, and I wanted to challenge myself to see if I can still hang with Shaun T for more than 30 minutes. And I just have to say that he is royally kicking my ass LOL.
Don't get me wrong, I can go to the gym and workout for a couple hours, but to do Insanity for two hours, "forget about it" =). I am currently on week 4 of month 1, and staying strong. I definitely feel the burn, but I also am feeling like I haven't in awhile, I just missed doing Insanity.
I used Beachbody Energize Pre-Workout on the days I need that extra push
Here is a quick video of my Insanity Cardio Abs Workout which I did right after Pure Cardio, oh yeah, I was beat to a pulp lol. This was Day 1, Week 4 of my Insanity Challenge.
All I can say is what an EPIC event that Savage Race put together this past weekend in Dade City, Florida. Savage Race is like OCR's (obstacle course racing) "Best Kept Secret". The event was on point from the staff, the obstacles, and the festival area. Staying innovative is something that I notice from this company. They may not be as big as Spartan Race and some of the other veteran companies out there, but I'm telling you, they have a lot of what most OCR companies don't have (from my experience), and that's "class". I would have to say that they fit the bill as being the "White Glove Service" of the obstacle course racing industry. But don't let that fool you, their obstacles are down right challenging.
My Mud Run Fun friends, they love to have a good time!
I 've been attending, participating, and filming the Savage Race for about 3 years now, and they are definitely on my TOP 3 OCR list when it comes to "must do" events. If you haven't been to a Savage Race, I highly encourage it. Take a gander at my latest Savage Race video, and feel free to connect with me, I'd love to meet up with you at a race event. If you love health, fitness, OCR's and just being active, I'd love to add you to my #FitFam network. Enjoy the video =)
So I finally had the opportunity to upload my Island Hopping video from Palawan, Philippines. It was so much fun, I took one of my cousins from Manila with me (he's never been there) and we had a blast together!
Watch Island Hopping Video Below!
I was on the island of El Nido for about a week and also found a gym called the Peak Corner Gym (not sure if it's still there) because I am always looking for a place to workout and keep my fit on all over the world. The day pass was something like only $1.50 US =) The workout that I did in this particular video was a P90X/Body Beast Hybrid workout, which is perfect to maintain my strength for my adventure travels. I ended the workout with a run on this manual treadmill, it was the first time that I've ever been on a non-electric tread, and it royally kicked my ass!
Spent a week in Stowe, Vermont with some family, and had an absolute blast! Feel free to check out the family video that I made, I can't wait to go back =)
Banawa Family Getaway - Stowe, Vermont 2015
My fitness journey began with the Beachbody Challenge, now I want to help you =)
I guess you can say that I have a love/hate relationship with Insanity Creator Shaun T. I've been doing Insanity since late 2010, and it just doesn't get easier, and I know that it sounds a little cliche, but it never get's easier because YOU JUST GET TOUGHER! Yeah...that sounds good, I'll take that ha ha =)
So about the Free Insanity Workout, I'm sure that the question that you have for me is....."Is it really free?" Well, it sure is, thanks to Beachbody on Demand.
Here's how it works:
If you are a first-time Beachbody on Demand user, you will have the opportunity to take advantage of the Free 30 Day Trial which offers over $3,200 online streaming Beachbody workouts, and yes, the Insanity program is included. So it's not just Insanity that you will get FREE for 30 days, you will also have access to the whole online library of P90X and other workouts by Beachbody Celebrity Trainers such as Chalene Johnson (PIYO), Autumn Calabrese (21 Day Fix), and Sagi Kalev (Body Beast). You will also have access to "Sneak Peek" workouts before they are even launched to the general public.
How do I get started?
It's really simple, just CLICK HERE and get your Free Trial Club Membership and try Insanity and over $3,200 worth of other online streaming workouts for 30 days.
Do you want more?
If you would like to get the BEST results, you may want to ask me about my upcoming online challenges which includes everything that you need to get you started on your fitness journey. My online challenges include the Beachbody fitness program of your choice, Shakeology nutrition to assist with your health goals, an exclusive invite to my private accountability group to receive Free Coaching and support/motivation from me, and others in the group who have similar goals as you.
When my sister told me about the Stowe Recreation Path, I wasn't really interested. I am more of a trail runner. I do enjoy an occasional road race, but unfortunately, the pavement really kills my knees.
As we were driving through historic Stowe Village, I noticed the "Rec Path" weaving in and out of some pretty neat buildings and scenery, so being a fan of historic buildings and mountain scenery, I decided to run the 5.7 mile paved trail. I started from our mountain getaway which was about 3 miles, so my total distance for the day was close to 9 miles.
All I can say is that I am so glad that I did it because I was able to see the seasons change before my very eyes. There were also little shops and restaurants along the way. Thompson Park was towards the last mile, and just passed the park was a Corn Maze. I didn't do the maze, but I'll try it next time =).
If you are ever in the Stowe area, I highly recommend it. You don't have to run it if you don't want to. I saw plenty of walkers and bikers on the path. My family met me at the end of the path which ended at Brook Rd by the covered bridge, it was a great way to start my day!
Check out the video that I made from the Stowe Recreation Path, and feel free to connect with me here. Stay active my friends!
Running the Stowe Recreation Path
Take your running to the next level with Beachbody Performance!
Beachbody and Tony Horton (Creator of P90X) does it again!!!! 22 Minute Hard Corps (Discounted Challenge Pack links below)
22 Minute Hard Corps is your no-nonsense, boot-camp-ARSE-kicking fitness program. P90X Creator and legendary trainer Tony Horton has created this very simple to follow program inspired by techniques used in the MILITARY. Each 22-minute workout is a total body drill designed to get you "boot camp fit" in only 8 weeks.
Check out the video here: (Click Below)
I will be starting a 22 Minute Hard Corps Online Test Group, feel free to message me if you would like to partake on this Military-Inspired Challenge. Contact me here!
Yesterday was my father's birthday, he turned 71. This is what my Dad decided to do on his birthday, and all I can say is that this is the reason why he is my INSPIRATION. I hope to one day get to his level because he is everything that a father and husband should be.
My Dad killing it at Spartan Race thanks to Beachbody Fitness
I am currently taking on the my 2nd round of the Insanity Challenge, and my father decided to join me and do the Cardio Power and Resistance workout, check out the video here:
Now I don't know about you, but this man motivates me! He is proof that AGE IS JUST A NUMBER, and that health and fitness is the key to long life and happiness. I love you Dad =)
Family and Fitness is my life!
Have you ever wanted to achieve something but didn't have the right tools, or the right support system? The Insanity Challenge is definitely one of the TOUGHEST fitness challenges out there, but I'm confident that if you join one of my upcoming online fitness challenges, you will find that with the right combination of fitness, nutrition and support, anything is possible! Message me to get started on a health and fitness journey, I look forward to meeting you! =)
Take the Insanity Challenge - Free Coaching from me!
I've been spending some amazing time with my family here in Stowe, Vermont and while my family wanted to do the Auto Toll Road to the Vermont's Highest Peak, which is Mount Mansfield Summit, I decided to hike it instead and just meet them at the Mt. Mansfield Visitor Center.
I took the Long Trail from the base of the mountain which was located just passed the Stowe Mountain Lodge (Trail #1). I took the Long Trail (2.3 miles one way) all the way up to the Summit (The Chin) which was 4,393 above sea level with a total of 2,800 in elevation gain.
From the Chin, I then hiked (and did as much running as I could) along the Summit Ridge (about 1 mile) to meet my family at the Mt. Mansfield Visitor Center. As soon as I arrived, I found out that the mountain was not letting a lot of people go up the Auto Toll Road because there were so many people already up. It was going to take forever for them to come up, so I decided to take the Hasleton Trail back to the Gondola Base of the mountain which was about 1.6 miles. I did a total of about 5 miles of hiking, and it was one of the best experiences that I've ever had. I would highly recommend it!
Feel free to watch the video that I created from my hike all the way up to the Mount Mansfield Summit. It's a great way to experience the breathtaking hike with me =)
Long Trail Hike to the Mount Mansfield Summit (The Chin)
I remember when the PIYO program was first launched, I thought to myself, "this must be a program for girls", and I pretty much laughed at the program. Boy, was I ignorant lol. It wasn't until I actually tried the PIYO DRENCH workout that I eventually started to gain total respect for it. For someone who is religiously focused on P90X and Insanity type of workouts, I thought that this was going to be a piece of cake. Again, I WAS WRONG =)
PIYO is a program that combines Pilates, Yoga, and Body-Weight Resistance movements. It is for anyone interested in gaining more strength and flexibility. The program is low-impact and geared for all fitness levels and includes a full time modifier.
At my Fit Club in downtown Tampa, we typically only host Beachbody's most elite fitness programs, and we just added the PIYO Drench workout into the mix, and everyone loved it. Let's put it this way, every member who did the workout was literally DRENCHED. Although you are not jumping up and down and killing agility moves and a million push ups, this PIYO Drench workout seems to have everyone sweating more than a P90X or Insanity workout. Yeah, I know, you just have to try it! =)
So are you a little curious about PIYO? Ask me about my upcoming Online PIYO Challenges. You will get everything that you need to get to your strength and flexibility goals! Message me here!
I had an absolute blast kayaking and spending time with my daughter and her boyfriend at Caladesi Island. This place is pretty amazing because you can rent a kayak all day and go ISLAND HOPPING and explore miles of mangrove trails. And as far as I know, you can actually go beach camping on these small remote islands.
First of all, Caladesi Island State Park is a Florida State Park located in Caladesi Island in the Gulf of Mexico across St. Joseph Sound to the west of Dunedin, Fl which is just north of Clearwater, Florida.
The only way that you can access the island is either by ferry, private boat, or non-motorized vehicles such as kayak, catamaran, paddle boards etc. The ferry departs from Honeymoon Island. We actually rented kayaks from this place called Sail Honeymoon which is just off of the Dunedin Causeway. You can check out the kayak rental rates here.
Sail Honeymoon provides Sailboat rentals, kayaks, and paddle boards. Included with your rental is a life jacket as well as a medium sized dry bag. The staff is very courteous and knowledgeable about the area, they have been around for years. From the rental facility, it takes about 15 minutes to kayak to the edge of the main island. The mangrove trails are located around the Caladesi Island State Park Boat Dock area, just ask the park staff and they can assist you.
We had an absolute blast and just did a little island hopping. Ocean Kayaking is definitely a lot more work than river kayaking (not river rapids lol) in the normal Florida Springs, so be prepared for a pretty good upper body workout. Thank goodness for P90X ha ha =)
Here is a small check list to bring for a nice day of kayaking:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito Spray (deep woods) if you plan to hit the mangrove trails
- Small cooler with snacks, water
- water camera (dry bag provided for all of your dry goods, phone, wallet etc)
- Flip flops
- Water shoes if you plan on island hopping, the terrain is a little rocky around the remote islands
- GoPro highly recommended =)
- Cash ($2 for park entrance fee)
- Beach towel
- Extra clothes to change in afterwards
There are bathroom facilities in the main area of Caladesi State Park as well as at Sail Honeymoon rentals.
I have been doing P90X since the first time I started my health and fitness journey back in 2010. What I love most about P90X is that it REALLY works. The workouts are nothing fancy or glamorous. You are not snatching things up or climbing ropes, it's just basic and simple functional fitness, and if done on a consistent basis, P90X can provide some pretty darn amazing results.
As an obstacle racing athlete, I enjoy participating in races which require strength to climb ropes, walls, and all kinds of monkey bar variations. There are barb wire crawls and even crazy fire jumps. So how do I train and prepare for these events? It's simple, I just use P90X and incorporate a lot of running. I see people do all kinds of crazy things like tire flips and other unnecessary exercises. Yes, some of those can help, but it is definitely not required, and not proven that it will even help at a race. You just don't need any of that fancy, bulky, "looks good on video" type of equipment. But hey, if you feel that it works for you, then have at it =).
Another thing that I love about P90X is that you can do it anywhere. I especially enjoy going to the gym because sometimes I like to use the equipment to change it up a bit. I recently went to Powerhouse Gym in downtown Tampa and did a modified version of the P90X Chest, Shoulders, and Tri workout. I basically used the worksheet which was uploaded into my iBooks app, and just replaced some of the original exercises with the use of some gym equipment.
Here is the P90X Chest, Shoulders, and Tris Workout Sheet
You will notice in the video below that I used gym equipment to replace some of the push up varieties. I also replaced some of the tricep exercises with gym equipment as well. If you are not familiar with the use of various types of gym equipment, just ask a staff member, or just stick to what the worksheet calls for. I've seen some people bring their laptops to the gym to do P90X, and I really do not recommend it because it may be a liability to the gym owner, plus it would really suck if a weight fell on it.
I encourage all of you newbie P90X'ers to first do it at home, and once you feel comfortable with all of the exercises, then simply go to the gym and use the workout sheets, or even the Beachbody on Demand (Online Streaming) and just follow it through a mobile device instead of a laptop.
If you would like to see how I incorporated gym equipment to do the P90X Chest, Shoulders, and Tris workout, you can watch the video here:
P90X Chest, Shoulders, Tri Modified Workout at the gym
If you would like give the P90X Challenge a try, I can definitely assist you with that. Message me here and ask me about my upcoming Online P90X Challenges. You will get all the motivation, accountability, and nutrition advice that you need to get to your goals. Looking forward to meeting you!
