Getting Fit in Agoura: Part 2 [VIDEO]

I'm already into my first week, and I'm feeling awesome. Though the fitness routines at are exhausting, not unlike boot camp, I come out of each class feeling energized.

For this second installment of our six-part series, Ferrum Fitness co-owner Jessica Unbewust wants me to focus on my "core," from where it all stems. Unbewust stresses that it is from here that I will strengthen my back, improve posture and tighten my abdomen.

In the video, she illustrates two "core" exercises that we will work on throughout our program.

For this week's nutrition tip, Unbewust wants me to urge readers to make it a habit to look at the ingredient list and labels of everything you purchase. She insists that before buying an item at the market, flip it over and look at the nutritional facts and the ingredients list.

"Many products such as cereals, breads, salad dressings, pasta sauces, etc. have added sugars and high fructose corn syrup, added artificial colors, flavorings and preservatives," she said. "Try to buy products that have the least amount of ingredients in the list, If you can't pronounce the ingredient you shouldn’t be consuming it!"

It is also very important to consume lots of water, particularly during and after a workout routine.

A believer in clean eating and healthy food combinations, Unbewust also offers the following recipe as part a nutrition packet she hands out to clients.

Lentil and Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:   

• 1/2 cup quinoa   

• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth   

• 1 cup green lentils   

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil   

• Juice of 1 lemon   

• 1/2 tsp salt   

• 1/2 tsp black pepper   

• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric   

• 1/2 tsp paprika   

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil   

• 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley   

• 1/2 cup pine nuts   

• 1/2 cup raisins

Preparation: 1. Place quinoa and broth in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Cover, lower the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside  to cool. 2. Meanwhile, place the lentils in a medium sauce pan and cover with 3 cups water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until cooked through. Drain, rinse, and set aside to cool. 3. Make the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, turmeric, paprika, basil, and parsley in a small bowl.    4. Combine the cooled quinoa and lentils in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and mix in the pine nuts and raisins. Makes 2 Servings

Unbewest has been a certified personal trainer since 2002. She has certifications from NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), ISSA (International Sports Science Association), AFAA (Aerobics & Fitness Association of America), and AFTA (American Fitness Training of Athletes).

*Unbewust advises to check with your doctor first before beginning a strenuous new fitness program.