Weight loss

Tired of Peloton? Here’s a Smarter Workout Alternative

Frustrated person next to Peloton bike exploring workout alternatives

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If you’ve been searching for Peloton workout alternatives, you’re not alone. What once felt like the future of fitness now often leads to burnout, boredom, or plateaus. Whether your bike’s collecting dust or your membership feels stale, it’s time to rethink what your body really needs — and what truly works long term.

Let’s break down why Peloton is falling short — and what you can do instead to get real results.

Peloton’s Rise… and Fade

Peloton exploded during the pandemic. People were stuck at home, and the brand nailed the timing with sleek bikes, energetic instructors, scenic virtual rides, and an easy subscription model. It felt like a movement.

But fast forward, and many people are canceling memberships and unloading their gear.

Why?

Sure, there are business reasons — but from an exercise and results perspective, there’s a deeper issue.


External Motivation Doesn’t Last

The whole Peloton model is built on external motivation: music, scenery, and peppy instructors yelling encouragement through the screen.

That can feel great in the beginning. But it fades — and quickly. Real, lasting progress requires internal motivation driven by clear goals that mean something to you.

It’s not about getting hyped up to pedal harder for 20 minutes. It’s about asking:
What do I want from my body and my life?


Cardio Alone Isn’t a Full Program

Peloton gives you cardio — and not much else. Maybe some light circuit training or HIIT. But it’s still basically endurance training.

  • No structured strength work
  • No fascia-focused training
  • No progression
  • No personalization

Just movement for movement’s sake. And that eventually leads to boredom, plateaus, or worse — injury.


One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Using your legs on a bike isn’t the same as training your legs intelligently. Overuse injuries, imbalances, and limited planes of motion can result from doing the same activity over and over.

Every body is different. You need a program that adapts to your individual structure, needs, and goals. That’s the opposite of Peloton’s cookie-cutter classes.


Why I Built Something Different

At SolCore Fitness, we follow a fascia-based osteopathic approach to fitness and therapy. That means:

  • Your workouts are built around your body’s actual structure
  • You learn to work with your fascia, not against it
  • You develop long-term strength, mobility, and stability — not just sweat

You don’t need fancy gear. You don’t need entertainment.
You need the right stimulus, progression, and support to evolve.


Ready for a Smarter Way?

If Peloton isn’t giving you what you need — that’s OK.

It was designed to be easy, not transformative.

But your body wants more. Your mind wants more. And you’re capable of more.

If you’re ready for a complete shift in how you train and take care of yourself, check out my program. It’s based on the principles of osteopathy and the real biomechanics of how your body is designed to move and heal.

Let’s train for your life — not just a screen.

it’s not just working out, it’s building a foundation for a better life.

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Hey Santa Fe, Bet You Didn’t Know This About Splenda®

splenda sucralose health risks Santa Fe

Splenda, Sucralose, and Unexpected Health Risks

Splenda® (sucralose) has been marketed as a calorie-free sweetener for weight loss and diabetes management. However, recent studies show that drinking even a minimal amount of sucralose affects the body in unexpected and unhealthy ways.

Research Reveals a Hidden Danger

Surprising Effects on Insulin and Blood Sugar

A study from Diabetes Care found obese participants who drank sucralose before a standard glucose challenge saw insulin levels rise about 20% more—resulting in blood sugar responses similar to consuming real sugar. Scientists warn that chronic, excessive insulin secretion can contribute to insulin resistance and raise the risk for type 2 diabetes.

More Than Calories—Metabolic and Heart Risks

It’s not just about calories. Reviews in medical journals show artificial sweeteners, including sucralose, are associated with increased risk for metabolic syndrome, obesity, stroke, and heart disease—even when consumed in small amounts. A recent large study links long-term sucralose use with cognitive decline and vascular issues. The World Health Organization now warns that regular use of artificial sweeteners does not help lower body fat and may raise risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Healthier Alternatives for Santa Fe Residents

Smart Ways to Add Flavor and Protect Health

  • Stevia and Xylitol: Both are natural, zero-calorie alternatives shown to be safe for most people.
  • Unsweetened Tea: Green, black, and herbal teas are rich in antioxidants, support metabolism, and can help maintain a healthy weight.
  • Mint and Lime Water: Add fresh mint and lime to water with a touch of stevia for hydration and flavor.
  • Avoid sugary beverages and artificial sweeteners for lasting metabolic health.

Takeaway—Santa Fe’s Guide to Sweetener Choices

Splenda’s® “dirty little secret” is that it’s not a harmless calorie-free fix. Research shows it can raise insulin, increase diabetes risk, and trigger cardiovascular problems. Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or natural sweeteners for better health and lasting weight management.

Learn the truth about artificial sweeteners and holistic nutrition:
Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program

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How to Choose Healthy Foods in Santa Fe

Santa Fe real food guide, healthy eating, local produce

Healthy Eating in Santa Fe—Confused Yet?

Does “healthy food” ever feel like a moving target? In Santa Fe (and everywhere else!), it’s tough to keep up. Some people say one thing, then a new study drops, and the story changes again. Add in endless marketing, a dash of supermarket “health” trends, and it’s no wonder so many are left scratching their heads by the produce aisle. The truth? What’s healthy for one person isn’t set in stone for everyone else. Food affects each body differently, especially depending on unique health issues, allergies, and lifestyle goals.

Tune In—Start With What Your Body Actually Wants

If the experts can’t agree, how are any of us supposed to nail this down? The best place to start is by listening to your own body. Maybe that means figuring out your metabolic type, or just noticing when a certain food leaves you sluggish or foggy—those are real clues, not just “in your head.” Embrace a little healthy skepticism! Even if an influencer swears by some new trend, question it, try things, and focus on what actually helps you feel and function better.

Real Food is Your (Tasty) Best Friend

Here’s where things do get simple: real food rarely has a complicated label. If your great-grandparents wouldn’t recognize it, that’s another clue it’s not the best foundation for health. In Santa Fe, that means loading up on produce from local farmers, appreciating food that tastes like food—not additives—and keeping shopping lists short and recognizable. Packaged “health” foods? Usually loaded with ingredients that belong in a science lab, not your kitchen.

But since people always ask, here’s what usually makes the cut:

  • Grass-fed and pasture-raised meats, eggs, dairy (local whenever possible!)
  • Organic fruits and veggies—especially in bright variety
  • Healthy fats like coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, real butter from organic cream
  • And, yes, experimenting with what combinations work best for your own energy

Let’s also talk honesty. Everyone is busy, and habits are hard to shift. Don’t beat yourself up for not being a “perfect” eater; just aim for consistent, honest effort. If you splurge on dessert or snack at a party (you’re in Santa Fe, after all!), enjoy it—and get back to real food next meal.

Watch Out for Sneaky Ingredients

A can’t-miss tip? Steer clear of the usual suspects in processed foods: vegetable oils, trans fats, artificial flavors, and colorings. Soy can be tricky—what’s sold in the U.S. is not the traditional Asian variety, and it often comes with questionable additives and potential hormone effects. If a label reads like a chemistry quiz, pause before it goes in your cart.

Shopping With Heart

Choosing real food isn’t just better for you—it supports Santa Fe’s farmers and helps push back against big corporations who prioritize profits over nourishment. Eating well, thinking for yourself, and keeping things simple really does send healthier ripples into the world.

Curious how this approach gets personalized for your goals and health? Explore the SolCore Fitness Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program to see how one-on-one coaching and metabolic typing help you truly thrive:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/holistic-nutrition-weight-loss-program-santa-

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What Not To Do for More Energy

Santa Fe healthy energy alternatives, avoid energy drinks

Tired? Ditch the Energy Drinks—Here’s Why

There’s a reason those colorful cans and tiny shots have become big business. But are energy drinks actually helping in the long run? Sure, you’ll get a quick rush, but the real story isn’t so simple—or so safe.

Energy drinks aren’t regulated like regular sodas, so companies can load them up with whatever they want. Let’s break down their three main ingredient groups:

  • Caffeine: Some cans pack up to 500mg—a heart-racing load that can cause jitters, irritability, or even a 14-point bump in heart rate. With blood pressure or any heart concerns, steer clear.
  • B Vitamins: Overloaded with B’s? Unless you’re actually deficient, you won’t see a boost…and too much B3 (niacin) or B6 could cause side effects like blurry vision or nerve pain.
  • “Natural” Stimulants: Guarana (double the caffeine of coffee!) and under-dosed ginseng join the party, along with heaps of sugar—often over the recommended daily limit in a single drink.

Real Risks—And Smarter Solutions

The scattered “energy” you buy is rarely worth the risk. ER visits tied to energy drinks have skyrocketed; side effects can range from insomnia and headaches to agitation and seizures. Even healthy adults can face a crash, and no one should ever mix these drinks with alcohol or use them before/during/after exercise.

So what actually works for more energy? Start with the basics:

  • Sleep by 9:00–10:30pm and log 7–8 hours
  • Drink half your weight (in ounces) of water daily
  • Eat for your metabolic type

If you still need a boost, try simple, organic coffee or tea—nothing fancy, just the real thing. Energy drinks aren’t your friend, and they’re never worth the potential fallout.

If you’re ready to swap risky energy drinks for a sustainable, holistic plan, check out SolCore Fitness’ nutrition and lifestyle programs:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/holistic-nutrition-weight-loss-program-santa-fe/

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Personal Training Success – Leslie Weinstein

Santa Fe personal training weight loss success story

Meet Leslie Weinstein—Retired, Inspired, and Getting Stronger

Leslie Weinstein’s story captures what SolCore Fitness is all about: giving people support, structure, and a doable program to help them thrive—no matter what health challenges or life stage they’re in. Referred by her friend Barbara, Leslie joined looking for more strength, less fear, and a retirement full of living—not limitation.

With thoughtful support and hard work, Leslie turned a pre-diabetic diagnosis and years of pain into incredible progress—losing weight, feeling confident, and living without the shadow of her blood disorder. Alongside her husband and her beloved dog Alice, Leslie is now enjoying Santa Fe with more energy and strength than she imagined possible.

Q&A With Leslie—Wisdom, Wins, and Real Talk

Q: What made you start?
“I was overweight, pre-diabetic, and tired of feeling helpless. This was my chance to make real change and enjoy an active retirement.”

Q: What did you do before?
“Doctor visits, PT for knee/back/shoulder, and water aerobics. They helped, but didn’t move the needle.”

Q: What results are you most proud of?
“Better stamina, strength, posture, and balance. I’m not afraid of falling anymore—I’ve lost 15lbs, dropped 10% body fat, and my back and shoulder feel great.”

Q: Favorite and least favorite exercise?
“I love almost everything—except for cardio, but it’s worth the challenge.”

Q: Current goals or challenges?
“More weight loss, better balance, stronger knees and back.”

Q: What’s best about the program?
“True attention from trainers, flexible plans, going beyond just muscles and bones.”

Q: Advice for other members?
“Don’t compare; just keep positive movement forward and do the best you can.”

Q: What would you say to someone on the fence?
“Try it for a few months, do your homework, and let the results surprise you. Investing in yourself really does come back around.”

Ready for your own breakthrough? Book a complimentary consult to discover how SolCore Fitness can help you reclaim strength and health in Santa Fe:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/free-consultation/

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HIIT your workouts.

Santa Fe high-intensity interval training, HIIT benefits

HIIT—The Science of Getting Fitter, Faster

With New Year’s resolutions (or swimsuit season) around the corner, everyone wants fat loss and fitness gains—fast. Here’s the good news: sound research proves you don’t have to spend endless hours on the treadmill. Short, high-intensity bursts (HIIT) can deliver all the metabolic, fat-burning, and heart-health benefits of hours of traditional cardio, in as little as 90 minutes a week.

A study from Liverpool John Moores University and the University of Birmingham split sedentary adults into two groups—one did just three HIIT sessions per week, while the other logged 5+ hours of low-intensity cardio per week. The results? Identical improvements in all health markers. That’s massive time savings, and a huge boost for anyone with a busy schedule.

Why Does HIIT Work So Well?

High-intensity intervals don’t just pack a punch in less time—they trigger unique physiological responses. Only this kind of exercise boosts Human Growth Hormone (HGH), the so-called “youth hormone” that helps burn fat, build muscle, and keep energy up as we age.

And then there’s the “afterburn” effect (EPOC): post-workout, the body keeps burning calories at a higher rate for hours, leading to faster fat loss with consistent effort.

How to Integrate HIIT for Truly Lasting Results

HIIT isn’t about going “all out” daily—it’s most effective (and safest) just 2-3 times per week, with a thoughtful progression of exercises and intensity. If you’re new or have any health concerns, get clearance from a doctor. Better yet, work with a qualified personal trainer: they’ll assess your baseline, program the right intervals, and ensure you progress safely while maximizing benefits.

And don’t forget: no program can out-train a bad diet. Even the best HIIT routines work best with smart nutrition—like metabolic typing and real, whole foods.

Start Strong, Stay Safe

Add HIIT into your week, pay attention to sleep, hydration, and recovery, and combine smart training with healthy eating. With the right professional support and consistency, HIIT can get you stronger, leaner, and fitter—in a fraction of the time.

Want a HIIT program personally designed for your goals and lifestyle?
https://www.solcorefitness.com/personal-training-and-manual-therapy/
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How Gut Health Equals a Happy Gut Mind

Gut-brain connection, nutrition, and happiness guide Santa Fe

What Do Gut Feelings Really Mean?

Have you ever had a “gut feeling” or noticed your stomach acting up when you’re stressed? That’s not just a figure of speech—it’s science! The gut isn’t just a digestion machine; it’s a “second brain,” packed with over 100 million neurons that are in constant conversation with your mind. That’s actually more neurons than in your spinal cord or peripheral nerves. This network, called the Enteric Nervous System, directly responds to your emotions, especially happiness, sadness, anger, or anxiety.

Why Stress Changes Everything—From Digestion to Mood

When stress or anxiety strikes, your gut generates inflammation and acidity, making it harder to absorb nutrients and more prone to discomfort or disease. In fact, Harvard research shows that stomach distress can cause or result from emotional stress. That’s why managing stress is so important—not just for your mind, but for your gut!

Great tools for relief? Exercise, music, creative hobbies, nature, meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and even talking to a counselor can all help calm your gut’s stress signals.

Nutrition and Gut Health—The Ultimate Mood Swing

Science is making it clear: what you eat truly impacts how you feel, think, and function. Diets high in processed carbs and sugars (think bread, pasta, cookies, sodas, alcohol) can trigger inflammation in the gut, tamper with your good bacteria, and make your mood and cravings worse. That’s why healthy fats, lean proteins, veggies, and fermented foods (like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir) are so valuable for brain health and mood.

Foods to avoid: Sugar, artificial sweeteners, gluten, alcohol
Foods to savor: Organic fiber-rich veggies, fermented foods, probiotic supplements, grass-fed meats, wild fish, free-range eggs, olive oil, coconut oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados.

Mindset—Train Your Brain, Nourish Your Gut

Unhealthy food cravings? Ask before you reach:

  • Am I stressed out right now?
  • Am I getting enough sleep?
  • Am I drinking enough water?

Stress raises cortisol, encouraging cravings for sugar and carbs. Too little sleep increases the hunger hormone (ghrelin) and lowers the “I’m full” signal (leptin). Dehydration disguises itself as hunger. Instead of snacking, try a glass of water, a quick walk, breathing exercise, or creative project—watch how your brain and gut respond!

Affirmations and visualization techniques can retrain your brain to crave what fuels you best. “I am healthy…I eat healthy and I am fit.” When cravings hit, try visualization, affirmations, and positive distractions.

Everyone is capable of breaking food patterns, rebalancing their gut, and feeling happier in body and mind. Here’s to a happy gut—and a happy life!

Want more practical guidance on holistic nutrition and gut health?
Explore:
Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program
https://www.solcorefitness.com/holistic-nutrition-weight-loss-program-santa-fe/

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The Weight Loss Killer—Stopping This One Thing Will Drastically Help Your Weight Loss

Santa Fe weight loss, alcohol and fat loss guide

Alcohol—the Surprising Weight Loss Killer

“Just one can’t really hurt too much, can it?” For so many people working toward weight loss, alcohol feels harmless—until the science sets the record straight. Research cited by Dr. Dean Ornish in Eat More Weigh Less showed that just three ounces of alcohol can cut the body’s ability to burn fat by up to a third. Other studies push that number as high as 73%.

If that wasn’t eye-opening enough, drinking even a moderate amount of alcohol leads to more calories consumed—men in one recent study took in an extra 433 calories on drinking days (most from alcohol itself), and tended to eat fattier foods while skimping on fruit and dairy.

Does Alcohol Really Derail Your Fat Loss Goals?

Yes—there’s simply no sugarcoating it. Alcohol doesn’t just add empty calories; it actively blocks your metabolism from using stored fat, meaning that beer or cocktail is much more than a “harmless” indulgence. Frank Sinatra said, “Alcohol may be man’s worst enemy, but the bible says love your enemy.” When it comes to fat loss, though, loving alcohol is a recipe for disappointment.

What to Do Instead

If you’re serious about achieving sustainable weight loss, moderating or eliminating alcohol is one of the fastest, most effective moves you can make. Notice how much better your body performs, your cravings stay in check, and your recovery and results accelerate when alcohol isn’t getting in the way.

Want to take your results even further?
Explore the Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program for an individualized plan built around science, your goals, and the realities of Santa Fe living:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/holistic-nutrition-weight-loss-program-santa-fe/


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Holistic Personal Training—Say No To GMOs

Holistic fitness, organic nutrition, and personal training guidance Santa Fe

What Does “Holistic Personal Training” Really Mean?

It’s not just the latest workout trend—real holistic personal training considers diet, lifestyle, stress, and environment, not just what you do in the gym. That means thinking about what you’re putting into your body as much as how you move it. If you’re jumping from new diet to new fitness craze, it’s time to ask: Is your program really protecting your health, or adding more stress?

Why Avoiding GMOs and Glyphosate Matters

Dr. Stephanie Seneff of MIT warns that rates of autism and other chronic diseases track alarmingly with the rise of glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) on our crops and thus, in our food. This isn’t vague conspiracy theory—it’s based on neurological, gut, and immune markers increasingly linked to glyphosate exposure: low serum sulfate, gut bacteria disruption, serotonin/melatonin deficiency, and more. In the U.S., glyphosate use has skyrocketed, contaminating much of our non-organic food supply.

To protect yourself:

  • Avoid GMOs and choose organic whenever possible
  • Shop farmers markets for fresher, chemical-free foods
  • Know that most “too expensive!” objections are offset long-term by lower medical costs and more competition lowering organic prices

Small Steps, Big Results

You don’t need to hit 100% organic perfection. If you’re solid 80–90% at home, don’t stress if your favorite restaurant isn’t fully organic. Each good choice is a deposit in your long-term health bank. And remember: cancer treatment is a whole lot more expensive than a few cents more for organic produce.

Holistic Personal Training Means Total Health

Don’t settle for “random acts of movement” or throw up your hands at healthy eating because it’s “hard.” Stepping up to a truly holistic program means taking ownership of all aspects of health, so your exercise, nutrition, recovery, and habits all work together—not against you.

Ready to take control?
Explore:
Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program
https://www.solcorefitness.com/holistic-nutrition-weight-loss-program-santa-fe/

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Personal Training Success Story – Deborah Trouw

Client success story—weight loss and posture improvement Santa Fe

Deborah’s Story—Rapid Results and Lifelong Motivation

Some members put big pieces together from day one—and Deborah Trouw is a prime example. Within the first month, she was already crushing workouts and advancing beyond her initial goals. In just three months, she needed a whole new set of targets! Deborah’s speed of success is a testament to her readiness to change and her lifelong drive for excellence—traits she’s shown in both career and family.

A UK native, Deborah has gone from raising two kids and starting at H&R Block to becoming a top financial adviser at Waddell and Reed in the US. It’s clear that once Deborah sets her mind to something—change happens fast.

Q & A: Deborah’s Journey in Her Words

What made you decide you wanted/needed to start a personal training program?
My weight had been creeping up and I would lose a few pounds then put back on over the winter. I knew I wanted to weight train but was also aware that I wasn’t standing straight and didn’t want to compound that working out by myself.

What did you do before?
Nothing at all for quite a few years except a bit of hiking with the family. Before that, step aerobics.

What results have you achieved since starting your program and are proud of?
Getting stronger, losing weight and improving posture as well. Sticking to the program for a entire year!

Do you have a favorite exercise? Least? What do you like or don’t like about them?
I like mostly that we rotate through different types of exercises—keeps it interesting and I can see progress when we do an exercise that we didn’t in a while and I am able to do more.

What are some challenges or goals you are currently working on?
Haven’t reached the point that I feel that I’m “there” yet and can just maintain current status.

What do you like best about our program/having a trainer?
Accountability, and knowing that I’m working hard but not overdoing it. I haven’t had an injury so far. You know what works best for my type of body.

What advice would you give to the other SolCore Fitness members?
Mostly to take YOUR advice, and to know that if they are feeling low energy and don’t want to come to the gym to do it anyway, that you will modify the workout as needed.

What would you say to someone on the fence about joining our program?
Check it out for 3 months—you can’t tell by just talking about the program!

Want to experience transformational results like Deborah?
Learn more about:
Personal Training and Manual Therapy
https://www.solcorefitness.com/personal-training-and-manual-therapy/


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