The Pact Blog

Getting fit and staying healthy are hard. Pact uses cash incentives to help you achieve your health goals, week after week. Earn real cash for living healthily, paid by the members who don’t! Available on iOS and Android. Have a Pact success story? Email us at [email protected]

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Pact Community Update: We are aware of the recent issues on both iOS and Android Pact updates. We are working to diagnose and resolve all issues ASAP.

For iOS we can confirm that the freezing issue when selecting activities from the Pact card home screen can be corrected by force closing the app. You will then be able to track activities successfully but selecting prior activities for the time being will cause the app the freeze. We will have a fix out next week to address this issue.

If you will think you will be unable to meet your Pact commitment due to technical difficulty please write into our support team atwww.pactapp.com/contact/form - our team will assist in troubleshooting and adjust your account if necessary.

Thank you for your patience!

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Pact user Pedro just withdrew $73.90 dollars out of his Pact rewards after doing almost 500 healthy activities! What is he going to do with his Pact rewards? In an act of compassion and consideration for the health of the world he’s donating them for relief for the devastation in Nepal. He has decided to donate via Unicef where 90% of every donation goes directly to disaster relief for Nepalese children! 

Pedro uses Food and Gym Pacts. Between his two Pact commitments he usually completes 11 pact activities per week! When asked what part of the Pact program motivates him the most he answered: 

“Well, certainly the fact that if I do not do exercise I get charged! That is why I elevated the stake so that pact charges me $20 per activity missed instead of the default $5. This helps me a lot specially on those days when I am not in the mood of exercising, I remember I will get charged and get up the couch and do something! But really, it has helped me to be constant and exercise the 4 days I set it to and to log everything I eat every day of the week!”

Pedro’s preferred method for meeting his Gym Pact commitment is to reach 10,000 steps a day! He always focuses on getting 10,000 steps a day using his FlipBelt and Jawbone UP even though he also goes to the gym and tracks cycling and walking RunKeeper activities! SO MOTIVATED!

We asked Pedro what his health and fitness goals are going forward: 

“Continue to use the Pact App to work out at least 4 times a week. I am planing on increasing my work out intensity, not just running to reach the 10,000 steps, but also to go the gym more often. At least twice a week.”

Click here for more information on donating for Nepalese emergency relief via Unicef.

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Some Pact App users use their rewards for philanthropy! They donate their funds to create the change they want to see in the world! We want to honor their contribution to society and motivation for wellness! Over the month of May we will be showcasing their stories!

First up is the inspiration for this project Pact user and web developer Daniel! He wrote in with his story to [email protected]

“ I've been using pact for almost two years and I'm really happy with it. It helped me a lot, motivating me to go workout even in the laziest days.

My first plan to spend the money was getting around $40 to have a good dinner or some good bottle of wine to celebrate after the first year. But when I was reaching the desire amount I thought I can use this money for something better, something that I may remind in the future and also motivate me to continue the pact or increase it.

Then one day when I saw something in a website about animal adoptions in WWF. I went there and saw that for $55 I can choose an animal to adopt and receive a certificate and a plush, so my decision went for that, adopting an Amur Leopard.

I was really happy with my decision, and in the next year I add another day to my pact, to get the amount for a second adoption faster. This time I went for a Tiger and already received it last week.

Now I'm already working out to try to reach the third adoption. “ 

Daniel has been a Pact user for 2 and half years. He uses Food and Gym Pact. He usually sets his Pacts for 7 activities for Food and 4 activities for Gym. He is motivated by seeing his rewards accumulate and by the risk of losing funds for not completing his Pact commitment. He uses RunKeeper to meet his Gym Pact commitment by cycling and running! He has accumulated over $100 in rewards! As he spends most of his time sitting in front of his computer for his job as a web developer Daniel uses his Pact motivation to keep himself active and for calorie consumption management! 

We honor your dedication and kindness Daniel! Keep up the great work!  

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Hard Work Pays Off : Pact User Success Story!

Pact user Kris Rochelle reached out to us with a photo and kind words about the success that he has experienced using Pact app! We asked him a couple of questions about his story to share with the community at large and he graciously agreed! Check out the photo of his progress and what Kris has to say about staying successfully motivated with Pact below! 

How long have you used Pact?

I have been using Pact since 2012 when a great friend of mine told me about it.  I absolutely love the app and found it insightful as well as keeping me on task.

Which Pacts do you use? (Veggie, Gym, Food)  

I have now gone to using all 3 Pacts.  I initially started with just the gym portion.  Then proceeded the fruit and veggie and finally adding in the food logging. How many activities do you usually set your Pacts for?  

All my pacts have increased over the last 3 years.  The gym went from 3 and now is up to 5 days per week.  

How do you usually meet your Gym Pact commitment?  

It was initially a struggle to meet my commitment, even having some medical issues that stopped me for a couple of days here and there.  BUT again it is the accountability with those around me.  Fast forward 3 years this has become a lifestyle not just a commitment to become healthy. This was a platform for me to launch myself into a healthier and longer life. What part of the Pact program motivates you the most?

I have found that Pact has held me to a higher standard of accountability not only to myself but for those around who follow it on my Facebook page.  My friends ask me if they have not seen anything if I had met my goal and if I was still working out.  It has helped me create a circle of encouraging supporters. Have you withdrawn rewards yet? If so, did you buy anything you would like to share? If not, how much $ have you accumulated?

I have withdrawn over the last 3 years sporadically.  Things would include gas to get to and from the gym.  Supplements to help me achieve my goals.  I am now back up to $21.70 and rising. What are your health and fitness goals going forward?

Some of my goals are to lose the remainder of the excess body fat and gain 45-50 pound of lean muscle.  In the last 2 months, I have lost 3% BF and added 13 pound of muscle.  This is a huge step given when I started this journey I was 433 pounds.  Now at 246 and noticeably healthier and happier.

Tell us about your success using Pact on our Twitter, Facebook or by emailing us at [email protected]!

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Shannon, Health Enthusiast from "The Glowing Fridge", Blends Up A Cranberry Holiday Superfood Smoothie Exclusively For Us!

We’re a big fan of Shannon from “The Glowing Fridge” – a vegan blog filled with colorful recipes, daily eats, and healthy tips. A glowing goddess who writes from Chicago, Shannon dazzles us with her expertise in nutrition and health after she made a life-changing commitment to practice a plant-based vegan lifestyle. The transition to greens has led Shannon to truly experience a state of health that goes beyond maintaining a disciplined diet: she feels and breathes healthier – a glow that comes only from eating healthful foods. “Pampering our glow” is a term she’s given to describe the effect plant-based eating has on our bodies.

  We asked Shannon to create something exclusively for Pact users. Using ingredients inspired by the holiday season, it’s no surprise that she blends up a nutritious, tasty treat. Pre or post-workout, as a breakfast supplement, while relaxing at home – there are many occasions to sip on this during the holidays. #CommitToYou by following this Cranberry Holiday Superfood Smoothie recipe packed with antioxidants, vitamin B, and much more! Thanks, Shannon!

  Shannon from "The Glowing Fridge"

With the holidays in full swing, temptations are at an all-time high. Many of us start out the season on a healthy note, or at least we try our best! We set intentions and resolutions on how we want to stay health-conscious throughout the next few months. On the other hand, we want to savor the special moments and live a little. It seems like a battle year after year. After all, we do have shopping lists to tackle, cookies to bake, hot cocoa to sip on, cozy fires to snuggle up to and Netflix marathons to watch. Being mindful and staying nourished doesn’t have to be a battle though. By making small, realistic goals, we are more likely to stay on track, ease our minds, take some stress off, and enjoy a few treats without going overboard.

An easy way to make sure you’re incorporating nourishing fruits and vegetables into your daily eats (so you have less room for the tempting treats!) is by starting out your day with a smoothie. Not just any smoothie, but a creamy Cranberry Holiday Superfood Smoothie. This beautiful concoction of seasonal fruits and veggies with added superfoods will power you through your holiday hustle (aka trip to the mall) during the next few weeks and will help guide you to make healthier choices throughout the day.

So what’s in this holiday inspired smoothie?!

Cranberries are a popular holiday staple, usually seen in cranberry sauces and side dishes, but adding them to your morning routine is a delicious and immune-boosting way to eat with the seasons. The vibrantly colored cranberries are packed with antioxidants and protective plant chemicals (phytonutrients) which have anti-cancer and disease-fighting compounds. Adding frozen bananas gives it a yummy and creamy shake-like texture. For natural sweetness, we’re adding gooey medjool dates that provide fiber, potassium and copper. Maca offers hints of caramel notes and is the ultimate superfood powder for energy, stamina, hormone-balancing properties as well as iron and B vitamins, which are especially beneficial for those on a vegan diet. This smoothie has it all and will leave you feeling nourished, energized and balanced - a perfect mix for celebrations and festivities!

**I should add that for color and photo purposes, I did not add spinach to the smoothie but I highly recommend including greens whether it be from kale or spinach. Greens are king!

Cranberry Holiday Superfood Smoothie

½ cup fresh cranberries

½ cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)

½ of a small beet, peeled

1-2 cups spinach or kale (optional)

2 bananas, frozen

2 gooey medjool dates, pitted

1-2 teaspoons maca powder

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or more as needed)

Do This: Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy!

Makes about 3 cups. Serves one.

  Thanks Shannon for your contribution! Do you have a healthy recipe you’d like to share? E-mail [email protected] 

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Kick Off Your New Years Resolutions with Pact and #CommitToYou

We’re all about helping you commit to your goals. Getting fit and staying healthy are hard - especially during this time of year when the holiday season, rainy weather, and family gatherings challenge us to stick to fitness and health regimens.

It’s important to set personal goals and strive towards attaining them. New Years resolutions are a great way to incorporate healthy behavior into your everyday routine. As a way to wrap up the year and bring in 2015, we invite you to participate in our new social challenge: #CommitToYou

Throughout December, keep us in the loop whenever you do something that counts towards your personal health goals by uploading content on Instagram and Twitter using #CommitToYou

We will be administering mini contests, inviting you to share tips, answer questions, or tell stories about your progress

Prizes will be given away weekly! Get your friends involved to win more prizes.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to stay in the loop on the challenge and prizes!

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Crossing Places Off My Travel List: Trekking in Nepal (Part 1)

Nepal is home to the Himalayas, beautiful wildlife, rich culture, and kind-hearted people. Its landscape offers unlimited possibilities for trekking and mountaineering: immense mountains such as the Annapurna Circuit or Mount Everest bump Nepal to the top of the travel list for outdoor adventure seekers, wanderlusts, and young Jack Kerouac’s. Trekking along dirt paths, tiptoeing through slippery streams that glisten with rocks, whacking through untamed and unstrained vines, and climbing, climbing, and more climbing…it’s a physically enduring challenge that tests your stamina and strength, but transforms your spirit, leaving you with a refreshing new attitude towards your very existence. After wrapping up our 10-day trek and touching down in Syaulibazzar, twelve of us piled into an old, beat up Jeep with our luggage strapped to the top. Sweaty, exhausted, and silent (except for the occasional gasps and shrieks from barely clearing the cliff), an indescribable aura filled the air as we reflected on our journey.

  My mom had planned this trip to Nepal in advance with a dear friend, but after graduating this past spring it was only fair that I invite myself and tag along last minute, right? Precursor: The closest activity to trekking that counted towards my outdoorsy skill level prior to the trip had been “exploring” around Muir Woods, Point Lobos, and the occasional hike in Tahoe Donner. I wanted to go on this trip for several reasons. It was an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (being even more meaningful since I'd never left the country) and living in a busy, metropolitan city, it’s not everyday I find the time to surround myself with the great outdoors. Besides, no one would pass up an opportunity to scale alongside cliffs in the rural land, get fit, and exercise.  

 We started the trip in Kathmandu and took a 5-hour private bus ride northwest to Pokhara, a lovely city home to the enchanting Phewa Lake, where we stayed overnight in a hotel and left the next morning to Nayapul (1-hr drive North). This is where we started the trek; guided by our lovely leader, Rashan, and a group of 10, we were anxious to start our expedition!

I was the youngest out of the group; the age gap ranged from 22 to late 50s and travelers came from all around the world! Malaysia, Amsterdam, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Baltimore were a few places we called home. Together we made a solid group that all kept the same pace for the most part and the porters, mountain men who carried our luggage, stuck by us at all times. If one of us needed a rest or gained a head start they were there to lead. The trails were busy during this time of the year with other trekkers, donkeys, and porters so throughout the whole trek we shared the road. Dirt, man-made stone steps, small streams, and bridges were all types of surfaces on which we traveled. 

The route:

From Nayapul, we starting trekking 1527 meters to Tikhedhunga and stayed overnight in a simple guesthouse. After breakfast, we hiked for 6 hours through little villages and the jungle. The villages along the way had rest stops, restaurants, and overnight beds for trekkers. In most cases, shops were painted bright, vibrant blue. Restaurants had tabouret windows with stunning, outdoor panoramic views. Children would frequently be playing or helping out in the kitchen. This was a reoccurring theme throughout the villages we’d pass on the trek.

Day two hike in the mountains was our hardest since it was a constant climb uphill by dirt path or stairs. In many cases, we had to move over to make way for the cattle as they passed with heavy cargo. The views couldn’t get any better as we ascended further up the mountain – we stopped frequently to take in the beauty and fresh air. After a few rest stops, we were happy to touch down in Ghorepani, where we stayed overnight after a butt-kicking 2775 meters.

As we reached the top, the clouds parted to reveal Dhaulagiri (the seventh highest mountain in the world) and Annapurna South. According to our guide, this was an extremely rare sighting…this was remarkable. I felt so tiny but hugely powerful at the same time amongst these marvelous, gigantic mountains.

The next morning we woke up at dawn, put on our warmest jackets and headlights, and climbed an hour up Poon Hill to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas. The highlight of the trip and perhaps a huge reason why people embark on treks to Nepal, this moment was simply incredible. Although the stairs to Poon Hill felt never-ending and they were crowded with other trekkers, I remember thinking to myself, “It’ll be all worth it at the top.” Here at 10,531 feet, we made it with time to spare! It was still moderately dark and in the distance, a thin, golden silhouette began to emerge. At the top was a busy lookout house, tourists setting up tripods and cameras, and a station selling coffee and hot chocolate. We sat on a ledge facing Annapurna South (7291m) with an unobstructed panoramic view of Annapurna (8091m), Fishtail Mountain (6993m), and Dhaulagiri (8167). The sun rose and beamed against the snowy white mountain peaks as they glistened with hues of light pink and orange. We were blessed on the occasion of seeing Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South from our guesthouse the night before, but this view from Poon Hill was second to none. Mom by my side, I felt extremely fortunate and grateful for this experience: the events leading up to this moment, the current state of feeling on top of the world, and the events still to come on our trek.

At the top of Poon Hill, don't blink! You'll miss it.

The Nepalese people believe the mountains are holy – their energy has a direct correlation to everyday actions or events. “Mountaineers do not say ‘I climbed Annapurna’ – they say ‘Annapurna let me climb her,’” it was said in Kathmandu, when we met for the first time as a group before the trek began. Among the Himalaya massifs, I understood their people’s belief that the mountains hold a kind of mystical power.

Continuing our trek to Tadapani, a 6-hour hike through the jungle, the weather decided to hail on us before we touched down. We took shelter in a mountainside guesthouse that overlooked the rest of the village, which was covered in gloomy clouds and damp from the downpour. Rooms were separated with plywood and were located above the lobby, a small set up with a fireplace, communal tables, and closed-off kitchen. After a hearty meal, we retired to our little cots and prepared for an early checkout time to Chomorong, a beautiful Gurung village, the next morning. The trek to Chomorong was mostly downhill as we passed along riverstreams and paced down log stairs for 2060 meters. Once we arrived to our last teahouse stay, we rewarded ourselves with Everest tall cans and walked down to Jhinu for a natural hotspring bath.

The baths are surrounded by enchanting scenery and radiates with energy from the lively watercourse. There was a 100-rupee admittance fee (equivalent to 50 cents) and they sold individual shampoo and soap packets at the entrance. The site is equipped with a few showers and changing rooms. There were three different baths, man-made alongside a river with a powerful current, with temperatures around 70-degrees Fahrenheit. Although we were the only ones wearing t-shirts and shorts (all the other ladies were sporting bikinis) we felt it was necessary to respect the Nepali culture and dress modestly in public.

We wrapped up our last night in the mountains with a simple dinner and a surprise cake - a kind gesture from Rashan. After buying a few rounds of drinks for the porters and feeling a little loose ourselves (I blame it on the altitude), we took the party uphill to a teahouse next door and danced around the quad until community complaints forced the music off. What an eventful way to end our last night in the highlands of Nepal! After six days of trekking together our group had become like family. Extending encouraging words to help climb infinite stairs, learning more about a team member’s culture overtea breaks, and borrowing toilet paper from each other were a few ways that this trek brought us closer. Now that it was ending, I felt bittersweet when we geared up and made our way downhill to our final destination in Syaulibazzar. Here we would take the bus back to Nayapul, where the journey began.

This trek has allowed me to learn the different culture, customs, and traditions of Nepal, while exploring its wondrous terrain. We were blessed with exceptional hospitality and a highly gifted tour guide who fed us with fun facts, great food, and lots of laughs. Nepal has changed my perception on outdoor trekking and has left me with this burning desire to emancipate myself with nature more often. Hiking outdoors gives you a lot of time to think, an escape from your everyday. I came off the plane at SFO with a handwritten note-to-self in my back pocket (more-so along the lines of a 3 item checklist). Learn to take it all in and cherish it. Do things that make you happy. Outdoors is free.

  “At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair should be messy and your eyes sparkling.” -Shanti

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The 5 Emotional Stages of Barre Class Explained Through GIFS

There's been a lot of buzz about barre classes lately. Whether you're a Pure Barre fan, a Pop Physique kid, or a Bar Method devotee - there's a studio out there for ya. But what is barre class really like? How hard can it really be? Here's the 5 emotions you'll go through during class - all explained via GIFS. 1. Excitement:  Don't celebrities go to barre class? It's like a fancy ballet class for adults. You're so ready to kick some bootay. 

2. Dedication: Ok - maybe this is a little bit harder than you thought it would be. You should have never giggled at the 2 lb. weights during the beginning of class. But you got this - you're in it to win it. 

3. Pain: Who ever knew those little movements could be so painful? Your legs are shaking and you want to cry at the thought of doing another plank. All you can do is close your eyes and push on through it. 

4. Defeat: There will come a point when you're ready to call it quits and walk out of the studio with your head down in shame. Embrace the shake? No thank you - I'd rather embrace my bed and Netflix. 

5: Accomplishment: You did it! You made it through #buttschool. You are a fitness warrior. Don't you feel awesome? Now run to the front desk and buy yourself the monthly unlimited pass.

Have a Pact story to share? Want to guest post on the blog? We'd love to hear from you! Email [email protected].

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For the full article head on over to Women's Health.

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Risa Xu Shares Her Favorite Spots In Boston To Get Fit!

Whether it’s sharing personal style tips, staying fit with flare, or schooling us with what’s hot on the runway, Risa is your go-to girl for all things fashion and fitness. She attended our Pact x The Handle Bar spinning party in Boston a few weeks ago, where we ended the workout with cider and cold pressed juices (read up on her experience)! Born in China and having migrated to the United States at age 2, this gal has traveled more than half of the United States with her parents, who were acrobats frequently on tour for show productions. “So I really did grow up in the circus,” Risa says. So neat, right? She currently lives in Boston as a student, but has big plans to move to New York City after. You can get a sense of how committed and passionate Risa is to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and staying active (while looking darling, of course) via her blog.

After finishing her first-ever spinning class with us, Risa was inspired to share her favorite workout spots and classes in Boston! To all of our Bostonians, you’ll definitely want to check out these places if you haven’t been before. Risa, we’ll let you take over…

There’s lots of things I’ve learned from moving to Boston — from learning how to multi-task when multiple teams are playing at the same time, to how to make it down Beacon Hill when there’s a blizzard, all the way to how all five feet of me can avoid getting trampled when the sidewalks are a little busy. But if there's one thing I can absolutely give credit to Boston for doing for me, it's getting me into the best shape I've ever been in. It’s been a combination of lots of things but I think one of the best things Boston has to offer is the variety of classes and the sense of community that is forever present. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite ways to get fit and classes you have to try!

  Run Club

Where: Nike Boston Run Club, 200 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116

When: Every Tuesday, Thursday 6:30PM, Every Saturday 9:30AM

  Given my work and class schedule, I’ve only ever been able to attend the Thursday runs. Hopefully before I move, I’ll be able to squeeze a couple more sessions in. There’s other run clubs in the city (Marathon Sports hosts their’s on Wednesdays!) but the team at Nike Boston has my heart.

I mean, they take a group selfie before the run, they stretch to Michael Jackson at the end, and they adjust themselves to the group’s pace for the night. They even have themes — we all dressed in Pats gear when the Pats played the Giants on a Thursday night!

  I’m definitely not the fastest runner — my fastest mile to date is 9:08 but my average pace still hovers just around 11 minutes — but I’ve never felt discouraged because I wasn’t as fast as the group of people at the front.

  They have two distances you can choose from: a 3-miler or a 5-miler. And whether you’re a coconut water lover, a nuun devotee, or just want some plain ol’ H2O, you’ll have access to that at the end of the run.

Yoga

Where: Health Yoga Life, 12 Temple Street, Boston, MA 02114

When: Daily yoga classes for different levels. Check (https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/home?studioid=6205) for a full schedule

  I was always intimidated by yoga — those handstands, those back bends, those… what do you even call that?! But I’ve always been fascinated by it. And when I found that Health Yoga Life was right around the corner from where I was living at the time, I figured it was time to give it a shot.Yoga, at some point, became more of a therapy for me, a place for the daily stresses and annoyances to leave my mind. I almost forgot that I was sweating and giving my body quite the workout.

  Whether you’re wanting to try yoga for health reasons, for clearing out your mind, or if you just want to learn how to do handstands and headstands, Health Yoga Life has something for you. My favorite classes were always led by Vyda, who is also one of the founders of the studio. There’s a way her classes flow in combination with her voice that is just perfect for me.

  One of the classes that stands out in my mind the most is when HYL organized a free class after the Boston Marathon attacks in 2013. I think that day was when I really appreciated yoga for what it is — it’s not about being better, more flexible, or whatever it may be than the person on the mat next to you. But rather, it was for a sense of community, love, and understanding, as well as physical and mental healing. All in all, the studio is clean, is located pretty conveniently right in Beacon Hill, and brings a sense of community that is organic and doesn’t feel forced. I’ll definitely miss HYL when I move to New York!

Krav Maga

Where: Krav Maga Yashir Boston, 200 Terminal Street, Charlestown, MA 02129

When: Check their website for full class schedule (http://www.bostonkravmaga.com)

  Okay, I’m sure this last one feels like it came out of nowhere. But you’ll see where this is going in a bit. 

I took a “donate-what-you-can” seminar in aid to the Red Cross’ disaster relief fund in May 2013. The seminar was open to everyone and was all about being taken hostage and not letting it progress to the point of an abduction.

If you’re not familiar with what Krav Maga is, it’s the martial art that is taught to the IDF, or Israel Defense Force. It’s not really a “system” but rather it’s different ways to take on hand-to-hand combat — and it’s taught to IDF soldiers and operatives.

Their location? Getting there may or may not scare the living daylights out of you. I was still living in Beacon Hill at the time, and while there is a bus route that probably could have taken me to where they’re located, I figured I’d get a 2 mile run/walk in. On the bright side, you get to walk past The Connie!

If you’ve never tried any type of martial arts but have always wondered, Krav Maga Yashir Boston offers a free trial class, seminars, a 4-week course, kids’ Krav Maga, as well as a free women’s self defense program every Sunday.

If you’re interested in my recap about my experience from that day, you can read all about it here on my personal blog. Gershon Ben Keren, the head instructor at Krav Maga Yashir Boston, also writes a fantastic blog that he updates frequently: http://www.bostonkravmaga.com/kravmaga-blog.html)

Sadly, I don’t have in action photos from this day — but check out their website for some awesome pictures from their seminars and classes!

In a little more than a month’s time, I’ll be packed up and moving to New York City — while this is bitter sweet, it’s a new journey for me, which means it’s a new fork in my fitness journey as well. I’d love to hear what all of your favorite places are — whether it’s in Boston, NYC, or your local area. Everyone benefits from knowing where the best places are and what might be really awesome to try!

  Let me leave you with one last thought: If you ever visit Boston, run along The Charles. I don’t care if you’re not a runner, if you’re a marathon runner or you’re couch-to-5k’ing it — take a quick jog around The Esplanade and appreciate all the beauty that Boston has to offer. #BostonStrong

Thanks Risa for sharing your top gyms and fitness classes in Boston! We look forward to visiting these spots next time we're in the area. 

Cheers,

The Pact Team

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Music Monday: A Killer Spinning Playlist

It's a fact: a killer playlist can make a workout. Recently at our Boston Blogger Party we learned that The Handle Bar sure knows how to put together the perfect blend of jams. Bellow is the playlist from our spinning party.  Press play, turn up the volume & get ready to sweat.

Boston Bloggers post sweat sesh at our party @ The Handle Bar Southie Have an idea for a Pact event you'd like to see? We'd love to hear it! Email [email protected].

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5 Tips for Running in Fall

Fall is officially here. The air is crisp and the Pumpkin Spice Lattes are a plenty. Whether you're an expert runner or new to the game - it's the perfect time to lace up your sneaks and hit the pavement.  Here are our favorite tips that will help you get the most out of your runs this season.

Dress for the weather. Gone are the days of when your running outfit consisted of just shorts and a tank top. Fall weather can be fickle. Not sure what to wear? Answer these quick questions from Runner's World and get your answer!

Sign up for a race. There are so many awesome races happening this season. Want to do the full 26.2 or does a 5k sound more your speed? Use this running activity finder to select the perfect race in your area. Make a new playlist. A new season means it's time for a new playlist. Don't have the time to put together your own playlist? Services like RockMyRun  and Spotify have some pre-created lists that will fill all your music needs.

Set attainable goals. Setting mini-goals can help keep you on track. Have a big goal and set mini-goals along the way. Establishing a mini-goal - like running a mile 3 days a week - will help push you forward. New to running? Try these beginner running goals the next time you get your run on. 

Go for a hike. Mix up your workout routine and go for a hike! Taking the scenic route while still getting your exercise on? Sounds like a win-win to us.  What other running tips should we include on the list?

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Running Tips For Newbies, Brought To You By Kelly From "Run, Selfie, Repeat"

Kelly from Run, Selfie, Repeat is a runner and media sensation residing in New York City. It’s her insanely humorous self-commentary, exceptionally brilliant use of GIFs, and keen insights into the world of running that lead us to believe you’d want to be bestfriends with her. She created a buzz after taking selfies during the NYC Half Marathon with attractive men trailing her to help her mind off the race. #HotGuysOfNYCHalf went viral and after an interview with Good Morning America, the press could not get enough of her. Cosmopolitan, Huffingtonpost, Washington Post, and Women’s Health Magazine are only a few publications featuring articles on Kelly’s small joke that escalated into an international story.

Run, Selfie, Repeat About Me

She never imagined herself a runner; in fact, she admits, “I was the kid who used to hide in the bushes or play dead to get out of running the mile in school.” We’ve all felt this desire to find refuge in a blanket and hide in the nearest corner when faced with a challenge – especially when it comes to running. When we came across Run, Selfie, Repeat - some time between getting sucked into her charmingly cheeky tone and realizing she has a real gift for associating with her readers – one post in particular really stood out to us and we had to share. Brace yourself for these 10 honest tips and recommendations on the following (P.S. this is directly from her blog): 

 “What to Expect When You Start Running”

"But I hate running." I know, I get it. Want to know the top three questions I get asked:

"How do you not get bored?"

"Why would you pay money to run that far?"

"I hate running, how do I not hate running?

ALL WONDERFUL QUESTIONS. We are all on the same page because once upon a two years ago I hated running with every fiber of my being.

I like to say I was just desperate enough the day I decided to go for a run. It was Thanksgiving day and the gym was closed for the holiday. I didn't sleep the night before because I was having debilitating anxiety. I thought to myself, "Hey girl, why not put some shoes on and go for a little jog. A little fresh air will help." I had become fairly active the last two years of college. I had worked really hard to lose 50+ pounds and fell in love with spin class. Whenever I felt overwhelmed I would just go spinning. But the gym was closed so I couldn't spin. I wouldn't say I was out of shape by any means, just your average body who was fairly active. I literally didn't make it to the end of my block when I had to stop to catch my breath.

The first month of running is THE WORST. It's really, really, really tough. But want to know what flies by really quickly? THAT FIRST MONTH. And if you can hop that small hurdle you're good as gold. If you aren't a runner and want to become one (I highly recommend it but I'm biased) I say try to couch to 5k challenge. I honestly believe everyone should run an endurance race. It's one of those bucket list items that fills you with an overwhelming amount of pride. But how do you get there? Well here is what you can expect when you first start running.

1. Pain: You are going to be so incredibly sore. But you know the phrase, "It hurts so good?" Just keep moving. The best way to relieve sore muscles is more physical activity! Get that lactic acid out of your muscles!

2. Your pride will die a little. Want to know what isn't fun? Not being able to run a mile without stopping. I was there, I couldn't even run .2 miles without stopping when I first started. Here's the thing it's mind over matter. You can actually continue to run as you're wheezing, huffing, and puffing. Just because you feel like you are going to pass out doesn't mean you are going to pass out. Slow your roll and run .25 or .5 miles. Then walk for 2 minutes and repeat. Do that for 3 miles. Run until you don't think you could run another step, walk for 2 minutes, and run some more. (It get's better I PROMISE!) Or download RunKeeper! This app will ask you what you want to accomplish and then get you there. A mile? A 5k? A half? Full Marathon? RunKeeper not only got me running but trained me to go from couch to 26.2 in 6 months.

3. DON'T QUIT! Fun is not going to be a word you use to describe running in the beginning. In fact you may want to use some explicit language to describe your new hobby. It's going to be hard and you may be tempted to just cut your losses. DON'T YOU DARE! I promise you it will get better. It's just going to be tough while you build your base. Just keep telling yourself, "I AM A WARRIOR. I AM AMAZING. I CAN DO THIS BECAUSE I AM A BAD ASS. JUST KEEP SWIMMING, JUST KEEP SWIMMING, JUST KEEP SWIMMING."

4. Make time. Look, I get it. You have a life. You probably have a family, friends, a job, pets, commitments, and a social life. I always love talking to Mom's who run because they always tell me, it's the only hour I get to myself. My social life gets body slammed when I train for a marathon. I am always telling people, "I can't I have to run in the morning." But guess what rocks when you get invited to something you don't want to go to? Or when you're invited to something that is going to cost a lot of money you don't have? Being able to say, "I can't I have to run in the morning." #GetOutOfJailFreeCard. You're welcome.

5. You will be slow. 10, 11, 12 minute miles here you come! But guess what a 6 minute mile and a 12 minute mile have in common? Someone who ran them. You have to start somewhere and running a 12 minute mile is NOTHING to be ashamed of. So instead of focusing on how slow you are, focus on how awesome you are for doing it. Because it's awesome. Honestly. You go Glen Coco.

6. There will be runs that suck. There are great runs, there are good runs, there are bad runs, and THERE ARE THE WORST RUNS IN THE WORLD. Guess who had one of the worst runs in the world on this past Sunday? THIS GIRL! And guess how long it was? 17 FRIGGIN MILES! I almost quit every 5 minutes. Want to know torture? Spending 2 and a half hours convincing yourself to just keep going. So yeah, I get it. There will be times when you just don't want to do it. I've had to stop a handful of times to sit on some street corner and cry because I was so over it only to realize I was still miles from home. Some runs will feel like the world is ending. But then you will be done and it will be over. And at the end of the day you tried. That's all that matters.

7. Buy running clothing. Say it with me, sweat wicking material. Not sure what that is? Read all about it by CLICKING HERE. Chafing is THE WORLD'S WORST. Running in cotton is a TERRIBLE idea. And go invest in proper running shoes. I ran my first half marathon in shoes that were a size and a half too small. Guess what happened? BLISTERS. ALLLLLLLLLLLL THE BLISTERS. Take care of your joints and knees by getting fitted for running shoes. (Go into a store, find a few pairs that work for you, then find them online. Don't spend $200 on shoes. $75-120 MAX. More running shoes 101: CLICK HERE)

8. You may have to get up early to run. Have a dinner after work? Getting drinks with friends? You may have to get up an hour or two earlier to get that run in. But what doesn't kill you makes you stronger...right?

9. You will sweat all the sweat. Probably more than you've ever sweat in your life. I have come home from a run soaking wet before. But just because it's hot or cold out doesn't mean you get a hall pass not to run. I hear people all the time say, "it's to hot to run." Unless it's 95 degrees, you run. Just hydrate. No excuses.

10. The day will come when you can run 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10+ miles without stopping. Tell everyone you know. The day I ran 3 miles without stopping I think I told every random stranger I encountered because I felt like a billion dollars. It was probably the coolest thing I had ever done. Then I ran 4, 5, 6, then 13.1 and then I ran a marathon. Each milestone deserves a celebration dance. Put that 13.1 or 26.2 sticker on your car. Shout it from the mountain tops.

Every single time you get outside for a run (or if you are one of those incredible people who can stand a treadmill) you have an opportunity. An opportunity to be alone or socialize, think, breath, and just be. Excuses are easy. You can't run a 5k, 10k, half, or full marathon making excuses. You have to just say yes. Commit. It's 4-6 months of your life. 4-6 months you will spend working towards something so huge you will hold with you for the rest of your life. It's going to be hard. Nothing of worth comes easy, unless it's winning the lottery (which is wonderful).

That first month is going to be tough. But every run will get a teeny bit easier. Every run will push that limit farther and farther away. You really are limitless. You can do all the things you never thought you could. All you have to do is take that extra step. Every time you want to quit just take that extra step. The only person standing in your way is you. And I get it, I am biased but running saved me from myself. I say this to you in all seriousness, if I can run a marathon ANYONE can run a marathon. I wish you all could have known me just 2 years ago to understand what I mean by that. I don't consider myself super athletic. I'm just crazy enough to love running marathons. Run a 5k. Run a 10k. RUN A HALF MARATHON! RUN A FULL MARATHON! I dare you.

Thanks Kelly for the good laughs! You’re an amazing source of inspiration for readers, runners of all kind, and the entire team over here at Pact. Keep up all the hard work and we look forward to seeing what the future has in store for you. 

Cheers,

The Pact Team

CL

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This Upcoming Monday Join Us For A FREE Cardio Pilates Bootcamp In Greenway Park w/ Move SWEAT Love

This upcoming Monday, September 22, we are joining forces with Ali Baldassare from Move SWEAT Love to host a free Cardio Pilates Bootcamp in Greenway Park! Special guest DJ JT Stevens will be scratching live beats to keep you pumped during this one-hour session! Ali does it all—a full time pilates and fitness instructor, brand ambassador for several brands, and recreational marathon runner—it’s no wonder she has been featured as an influential fitness guru in a handful of publications and blogs. We were able to catch up with her and learn more about the bootcamp babe behind Move SWEAT Love.

Ali has been a dancer, athlete, and all around fitness enthusiast all her life. A Jersey girl at heart, she has been teaching group fitness classes and training private pilates clientele for over nine years. She holds certifications through Mad Dogg Athletics (spinning), Schwinn, Power Pilates, Piloxing, and Zumba. Not to mention, she’s a brand ambassador for several brands including Energybits, Sweetgreen, and Lululemon Athletica. Sheesh, talk about an all-star athlete!

“This is the second year I’ve hosted the Move SWEAT Love Cardio Pilates Bootcamp on the Greenway,” she says. Ali’s ultimate goal from the beginning of Move SWEAT Love series (summer 2013) was to fill the greenway and to get as many bodies as possible working out together under the city lights.  “It came back this year by popular demand since the series was so successful!”

The class is a fusion of cardio drills, pilates, and innovative core exercises designed to challenge, strengthen, and tone your whole body. Ali’s passion towards teaching and motivating students to achieve their best and feel good demonstrates her integrity and strong work ethic as a fitness professional.

“The greatest reward of teaching is watching the impact it has on my students’ lives outside of the gym or studio.” Ali continues, “I feel honored to be able to provide an experience in every class that not only promotes physical fitness, but a way to de-stress, to meet new friends, to escape from their day to day, to connect with their bodies on a deeper level through movement and music, to build new self-confidence and to create a positive environment that poses new challenges and new discoveries of strength and capabilities that are carried through to other aspects of life outside class.”

In Ali’s spare time, she runs marathons, takes classes, hangs out with friends, and tries to keep up with her little mini Dachshund, Oscar. As much as she loves being an instructor, taking classes as a student is a way for Ali to stay motivated (yoga is her favorite!). We can’t wait to team up with Ali this upcoming Monday and be a part of the energy that’ll hit the Greenway. The class is open to everyone no matter your skill level and it’s FREE. Best of all, we’ll be giving away Pact swag bags filled with fitness goodies to the first 250 attendees & if you check-in to the event on Pact you will automatically earn $5 in bonus rewards. You can RSVP here!

This year’s Move SWEAT Love series has been the highlight of Ali’s teaching career and she hopes it continues to evolve and grow. “It’s unlike anything else to be outside in the heart of Boston with a live DJ pumping you up and a community of friends old and new that come together to workout.”

Ali’s Biggest Fitness Tips:

Cut yourself a break. It’s great to have goals and a plan to get you to that goal, but make sure the goal and the plan is realistic and flexible. If you miss class or the gym one day before you got caught up at work, it’s not the end of the world!

Try new things and try them more than once. It’s just a fact. If you don’t enjoy something you will not stick with it, however don’t be so quick to decide if you love or hate something. Try that new class or workout at least 2-3 times to decide if you like it or not because your second experience might be very different from the first!

Be mindful inside and out. You can work your butt off in the gym, but what you put in your mouth and the rest you give yourself is equally important. Be mindful with what you eat and drink, how you workout and honor when your body needs to rest. Because it does!

Be sure to wear athletic attire to move and sweat in. Sneakers are optional as most participants do the class barefoot. Everyone must bring a yoga mat, a towel (optional), and water! See you there.

Let's get to it, 

The Pact Team

Published by Casey Leong

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KRISTINA OF "APPETITE FOR INSTRUCTION" SHARES HOW TO MANAGE A BUSY SCHEDULE AND PRACTICE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AT THE SAME TIME

We love hearing how our Pact App helps users to create and monitor personal fitness goals and stay accountable for living healthier. Eating better and finding the motivation to tie up your laces and go get’m tiger is easier said than done, especially when you have a tight, less flexible schedule that leaves little time for yourself. We asked Pact User, Kristina of Appetite for Instruction, to share how she practices a healthy lifestyle and remains focused on her career as a teacher of seven years with a strict agenda.

  Born and raised in Arlington, VA, Kristina moved to Boston after receiving her Ed.M. from Harvard and began her career as a high school math teacher and International Baccalaureate Coordinator. With an alarm clock set at the crack of dawn, nonstop lesson planning, and stacks of paper to grade, Kristina admits she was victim to the “dreaded ‘back to school’ downward spiral into missed workouts, eating takeout for diner, and guzzling down Starbucks every morning.” Despite efforts of squeezing in late yoga or early barre classes in Boston, cooking complicated meals, or following typical health and fitness tips, Kristina felt there had to be a better way to fit health and fitness into her day-to-day routine.

  “I just got exhausted trying to drag a yoga mat and backpack home on the T at 9:00 p.m. or more prone to buying breakfast at Flour or Starbucks after a 6:00 a.m. class,” says Kristina. We can’t blame her. “Following typical health & fitness tips doesn’t necessarily spell success under teacher constraints…Even when I belonged to Boston Sports Club and aimed to arrive close to 5:30 a.m., I felt rushed trying to fit in the workout + shower + breakfast [tip] before trying to beat the early-morning rush to the copier at school.” Kristina put her foot down and decided to stop excusing herself from workouts and cooking just because she follows a different teaching schedule. This year, she has made a pact with herself to 1) cook simply and 2) move more and efficiently.

  Kristina believes in planning and preparing non-complicated meals that will reheat easily and last through the week. She uses her Evernote Recipes notebook to save and store recipes from her favorite food blogs to refer to later. “I plan out meals on Saturday, shop Sunday, and prep on Sundays while listening to podcasts or reruns of my favorite shows in the background,” she says. Some of her favorite meals include Nom Nom Paleo’s zoodles & meatballs and Pioneer Woman’s smashed potatoes.

  Follow Kristina's Blog for simple & fun meal prep inspiration! 

Kristina still runs and attends boutique studios like spin, barre, and Pilates in the morning or afternoon, depending on when she’s able to finish her lesson plans. 

  “Using Pact keeps me accountable to doing five workouts a week. However, that doesn’t mean I’m going to five 90-minute yoga classes or running 10 miles every day. I also try to fit in more walks when I can,” she says. Kristina reminds us that by using Pact, you can set workouts around your crazy life; it’s important to take your busy schedule into consideration when setting a goal. “I sometimes fulfill my gym Pact by walking to Kendall Square using RunKeeper (a 30 minute walk counts too!). My husband and I sometimes go for evening walks so that we can have some “us” time, fresh air, and just talk (rather than just collapsing in front of the tv). 

Read Kristina's blogpost on Health and Fitness: The Teacher Perspective

Bravo Kristina! Thanks for sharing your story and motivating others to use Pact and RunKeeper to reach their health goals!

Do you have a pact story to share?  Email  [email protected].

Cheers,

The Pact Team

Published by Casey Leong

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September is National Yoga Month!

September is National Yoga Month! To celebrate we've put together a list of some of our favorite yoga tips, exercises, and resources! Intimidated By Yoga? Get Over It With 5 Beginner Tips If you’ve never done yoga before, it can be extremely intimidating. But have no fear! Here are 5 easy tips to help all yoga newbies feel less intimidated. 

source: Stylecaster

Why Dudes Should Do Yoga. Listen up, yoga-skeptical men: Yoga is a full-body workout. According to some scientific research, yoga can build strength, increase flexibility, and improve balance, stability, sleep, and relaxation. Still not convinced? Read more about it here.

source: Greatist

10 Perfect Poses for Yogis on the Go For a traveling yogi, the biggest challenge can be finding time to squeeze in your practice. YogaJournal put together the perfect sequence for when you're on the go.

source: YogaJournal What is your favorite yoga tip? We'd love to hear 'em! Email us at [email protected].

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Pact Weekly Updates

With our most recent iOS (4.1.1) and Android (4.3.1) releases this week, we've had plenty of updates and changes for the Pact community.

Here's a quick review of some new features and updates you may have noticed:

New Motion Tracker makeover for Android and iOS

Check out our new Motion Tracker look and our quick how-to video for those who are new to the feature.

New look for gym check-ins

A redesigned workout page makes it easier to check in wherever you are.  Here's a how-to on adding and checking into a new gym:

iOS Auto-correct feature is BACLK!! We mean BACK :)

For those of you that struggled with all the silly typos filling out our Pact app forms - thank you for your patience.  Auto-correct is back to save the day!  You can now typo in peace - we've got you covered.

PACT CONTESTS / GIVEAWAYS / & WINNINGS!

Don't miss out on your chance to win some awesome prizes and Pact swag!!  Just follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for our contests and giveaways!

Here are our winners for the week:

Our Pact user, AJ, shares how she pumps iron with Pact's Motion Tracker, using the #HEALTHPACT tag, and we're sending her some Pact swag!!  Well deserved.

Pact user, Arthur, shares his best training tip with us "When running long distance, focus on smaller goals.  When you complete one small, set a new one to complete your long run." and he'll soon be stylin in his new Isaora #TrainBetter workout gear!

We couldn't agree more Arthur!  small steps = BIG results

We wish you a Merry Friday and a Happy Weekend!!

Cheers,

The Pact Team