All Entries For sparkpeople
SparkPeople and SparkRecipes Back Up After Technical Difficulties
Hey, everyone!
As you may have noticed, SparkPeople.com and SparkRecipes.com were down for a bit last night, and we apologize for the inconvenience. Unfortunately, there was a fire near our server facility, which shut everything down temporarily. We're happy to say that we are officially back up and running now, and nobody was hurt in the fire.
If you were unable to log in yesterday to get your daily SparkPoints, you can click here to get credit for the day you missed. We know how important consistency is to you all, and we'd hate to mess up your streak because of a technical difficulty on our end!
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask--we'll answer them the best we can!
SparkCheers!
The SparkPeople Team Read More ›
The Best Foods for Energy
Want to know what's really zapping your zip? Don't blame your bed—or the lack of time you spend sleeping in it. The real problem may be sitting on your plate. Find out the surprising reasons behind your energy crisis and take steps to fill your tank.
Energy Buster: Sugar Substitutes
Since you can't digest them, low-calorie sugar alcohols—including mannitol, sorbitol and xylitol—can cause stomach distress like bloating and gas, which are major energy drainers. Read More ›
Introducing 'The SparkPeople Blog'
You might have noticed that something's different on your favorite healthy living blog this morning. As of today, the DailySpark is now The SparkPeople Blog. You'll get the same everyday tips on healthy living from the same SparkPeople's experts. It's just in a new place, with a slightly different, easier-to-remember name. And, yes, you'll still get your SparkPoints for reading.
The SparkPeople Blog now lives on SparkPeople.com, rather than on a separate website. Not to worry--you will still be able to find all your favorite DailySpark blog posts both via the SparkPeople Blog and any favorites you might have saved. And you'll continue to see SparkPeople Blog posts in our daily emails and elsewhere across the site. Read More ›
Tired of Starting Over?
Inspired by this piece of motivation? Share it! Check out hundreds of inspirational quotes and images on SparkPeople's Healthy Inspiration page.
Wake Up to a New Challenge This April!
Raise your hand if you're a morning person!
…Anybody?
Ok, so waking up in the morning is tough for most of us. However, when you make an effort to do so consistently, it's entirely possible to make it a habit—which is a great way to build more fitness and productivity into your day. So, how would you like a little extra boost of motivation to A) Get up in the wee hours, and B) Make strides toward your healthy lifestyle goals at the same time?
We're going to help you do just that with our ''Rise and Shine'' Challenge! Read More ›
Feel Better and Get Fitter by Spring!
It's almost March, which means we've made it through the worst of winter (knock on wood!). Can you believe that spring is less than a month away? Although the arrival of spring promises warmer weather and better conditions for exercising outdoors, it might also make some of us realize that we hibernated a little too much over the winter. Maybe you skipped a few workouts due to bad weather or the flu, or the winter blues derailed even your best efforts to stay consistent. It can be hard to get active again after a lull in your exercise plan, but it's entirely possible to get back on your feet. And we're here to help you do it! Read More ›
SparkCoach: The Official Blooper Reel
My one-year "Sparkversary" of working at SparkPeople came and went in January, and I've been reflecting on all the amazing things I've gotten a chance to do over the past 12 months. Between writing, editing and managing content on the site, I also got to go on a whirlwind adventure to California to help direct and film a batch of videos for SparkCoach, our premium interactive coaching program. But I wasn't in this alone—I also had the pleasure of working with SparkGuy himself and SparkPeople member Shelli (MOSTMOM1). (You might remember Shelli's "SparkPeople Cup'' and "Hooping Gangnam Style'' vlogs—needless to say, this woman is FUN to work with; we had a blast! You can read her account of our trip here.) Read More ›
The Most Popular Health Headlines of 2012
As SparkPeople's editor, the best part of my job is coming up with great story ideas for our members. Health education is my background (and my passion), so being able to distill often complex topics into digestible—and actionable—pieces to help you reach your goals gives me a lot of joy. I work with an amazingly talented team of experts and freelancers (think certified trainers, behavioral psychologists and dietitians) who really know their stuff and can help bring these topics to you week after week.
I recently looked back at the top-performing headlines from SparkPeople in 2012. These are new stories that YOU read most. Take a look these 15 features for some of the best tips and ideas that you may have missed over the past year (starting with number 1). Enjoy! Read More ›
'I Got Tired of Being the Big Girl'
Meet Chris Kramer, a SparkPeople.com member (username ChrisKenandkids) who lost 73 pounds! Here's how she did it. Plus, find out how she fuels up for her favorite sport: tae kwon do.
How old are you? 43
How long have you been a SparkPeople member? Since September 2009, but really active since January 2011.
How did you find SparkPeople? My sister found the site and became a member. She suggested I check it out. I was doing Weight Watchers at the time I signed up and wasn't ready to make the change until 2011.
What is your favorite feature on SparkPeople? I love SparkRecipes, and I like meeting other members through the SparkPeople Community.
How much weight have you lost? I've lost 42 pounds since becoming serious about weight loss in 2011, and I'm 73 pounds down from my heaviest weight (233 lbs).
How long did it take to lose the weight? It took seven months for me to lose 42 pounds on SparkPeople.
Read More ›
What's New on SparkPeople: October Edition
We've gathered a list of some of the newest content on SparkPeople.com! Take a look at this month's top headlines.
Get Back on Track This Fall
With swimsuit season over and the holidays fast approaching, fall can be a tricky time for weight loss. Stick to your goals all season long with help from SparkPeople!
6 Recipes to Make with Your Kids
Cooking with your children will teach them how to prepare and select healthy food choices for life. Whip up these kid-friendly meals with your little chefs.
10 Excuse-Busting Exercise Quotes
Sometimes, a little motivation is all you need to lace up your gym shoes and get moving. Browse these inspirational quotes the next time you're tempted to skip a workout.
Avoiding Work-At-Home Weight Gain
Despite its perks, telecommuting can create a major conflict with your healthy lifestyle. Here's how to stay fit (and avoid the fridge) when home is where your job is. Read More ›
What's New on SparkPeople: September Edition
We've gathered a list of some of the newest content on SparkPeople.com! Take a look at this month's top headlines.
Lose Weight with Fall Comfort Foods
Don't panic over autumn's tricky and tempting treats! Indulge in your favorite fall flavors with these slimming dishes.
The Best Strength Moves for Runners
A strong runner is a fast and healthy runner. Find out which exercises you should be doing to boost your performance.
5 Healthy Foods You Should Be Eating
These supermarket staples are delicious, nutritious--and have been shown to raise "good" cholesterol levels to boot. How many of them are you eating on a regular basis?
The Power Food with a Rotten Reputation
It's been banished from carts and kitchens everywhere--for no good reason! Here's why you should reconsider what you've heard about this unexpected super food. Read More ›
What's New on SparkPeople: August Edition
We've gathered a list of some of the newest content on SparkPeople.com! Take a look at this month's top headlines.
8 Guiltless Grilling Ideas
Expand your cooking skills beyond hot dogs and burgers this Labor Day. These healthy and delicious grilled foods will impress your guests--and keep your diet in check.
Open Your Eyes to Better Sleep
Are sleeping problems keeping you up at night? Try these simple strategies for better shut-eye
Is the Corporate Ladder Making You Fatter?
When you spend 40+ hours at work each week, you need smart strategies to stay on track. Here's how to eat right on the job--no matter what treats are lurking in the break room. Read More ›
Motivation Monday: If It Doesn't Challenge You...
Inspired by this piece of motivation? Share it! Check out hundreds of inspirational quotes and images on SparkPeople's Healthy Inspiration page. Read More ›
What's New on SparkPeople: July Edition
We've gathered a list of some of the newest content on SparkPeople.com! Take a look at this month's top headlines.
What's Cooking This Summer?
Take a virtual trip to the farmers market for seasonal recipes and cooking tips with our summer food guide. Plus, share your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $1,000 gift card to Lowe's and more!
Your 5-Minute Summer Shape-Up
Summer's not over yet! There's still plenty of time to tone up and bust out that swimsuit. Our newest workout plan takes just 15 minutes per week.
Quiz: Are Your Weight-Loss Goals Unrealistic?
You might be committed to losing weight, but are your expectations setting you up for failure? Here's a reality check on what to really expect along the way.
Shake Off the Pounds
Add some Bollywood flair to your exercise routine! This quick and effective video will help you dance off the inches (and have fun doing it). Read More ›
Share YOUR Success Story with SparkPeople's Before and After Sweepstakes!
At SparkPeople, we are dedicated to helping our members reach their goals and live permanent healthy lifestyles. It takes a LOT of motivation and support to lose weight and keep it off, and we love seeing the progress of our dedicated members and hearing about their well-deserved success stories.
Now, it's YOUR turn. You did it. You put in the time, the sweat, and the energy. You persevered through the ups and downs. You've made enough healthy choices to know that your habits are going to stick for the long haul. You look and feel great--and it’s time to share your success and be an inspiration to others by entering our Before and After Picture Sweepstakes!
Read More ›
