2013 RUNVENTURE TOUR IN BALI

May 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:

Mention ‘Bali’ to just about any Australian and images of beaches, Bintang Beer and ‘Rhonda and Ketut’ instantly spring to mind for many. But there’s much, much more to this beautiful tropical island paradise and a new ‘RunVenture’ tour promises to show the slightly more adventurous traveller the ‘real’ Bali.

The tour is the brain child of Sputnik, Chief Swashbuckler at The Swashbucklers Club (and regular InShape News contributor). Although Sputnik has been visiting Bali for more than 20 years, clocking up more trips than he can remember, it’s only been his involvement in ultra marathon trail running over the past few years that has sparked his imagination to develop a special kind of tour there.

“Bali has lots of great tours,” said Sputnik. “These are typically for surfers, people who want to do Yoga and those looking to trek. But there was absolutely nothing for runners,” he said. “So when I was there in 2012 and wanted to go running, I found it almost impossible to find interesting and safe places to run. That got me thinking. So I asked myself, “What if I found some cool places, then invited people to come over and go running with me?” From there the cogs turned.”

The result, is something Sputnik calls a ‘RunVenture Tour.’

“It’s simple really,” said Sputnik. “There’s a little bit of running, a little bit of adventure and a whole lot of awesomeness,” he said.

The 2013 RunVenture Tour

It’s a concept Sputnik says should suit a wide variety of fitness types, from relative beginners to more experienced runners. Originally, he planned on creating something super challenging for even his craziest ultra running friends, but eventually settled on a more modest experience that even includes a leisurely mountain bike ride option for those who wanted to give their feet a rest on a few of the days.

“The original plan was to find 20 to 30 kilometre runs and do that every day for seven days,” said Sputnik. “But after doing the research, hiring guides to take me to various places, checking out the difficulty of the roads and trails and experiencing the effect of the warm weather, I decided to tone it down a bit,” he said.

The longest run is a 17 kilometre beach run. However, Sputnik is quick to point out even that even this stage has a shorter version with runners able to drop in half-way so the distance travelled is more comfortable.

On most of the seven days, the runs are about 10 kilometres in distance, with the routes ranging from gentle, downhills to steep inclines up to the top of an active volcano.

“Yep, the day that we run to the active volcano top will be tough,” said Sputnik. “I can’t imagine too many people being able to run to the top of Mt Batur. But once you’re up there you can enjoy the scenery,” he said. “Mind the descent is also fairly challenging.”

Other runs include a ‘Jungle Run’, ‘Lake Run’, ‘Waterfall Run’, ‘Elephant Run’ and ‘River Run’ with the emphasis, says Sputnik, placed more on the experience and the destination, rather than any particular pace or distance.

“Most running events around the world are races of some sort,” said Sputnik. “Single day races, stage races, or actual training camps and it’s all fairly hard-core and competitive,” he said. “Even if you just go for the experience, there’s still a level of pressure, whereas this is fundamentally different and way more fun.”

“Every run finishes somewhere exciting. This maybe river rafting, zip-lining through the trees or waterfall diving,” said Sputnik. “There’s always a soft adventure component to what we’re doing,” he said. “Nothing too crazy, but certainly enough to keep things interesting.”

In addition to the scenic runs, highlights of the all-inclusive tour include visiting newly hatched baby sea turtles, rafting down the Ayung river, a sunrise dolphin cruise, a tree top adventure course, waterfall diving, watching the sunrise from the top of a volcano and a visit to Bali’s best Elephant Park.

Non-Runners Are Also Welcome

The other fundamental difference is that he RunVenture Tour has been designed with non-runners in mind.

“In a lot of ways, running is an inherently selfish activity, particularly when you’re running longer distances,” said Sputnik. “You get out there for hours at a time and do your thing. Many runners leave friends and family behind whilst they run (the selfish act) and the only way they can get involved is to be part of your support crew,” he said. “So we went to a lot of effort to make sure that those not running could join-in on. So every day a guided walk in a similar location is held, then everyone joins together for the adventure activities.”

This makes the tour perfect for non-running partners and even children who are up for a bit of adventure and a lot of fun. Sputnik says the first tour in August has already had a lot of  interest and is on the verge of selling out, so plans to run several more tours next year are already in progress.

“We were pretty sure people would like the idea,” said Sputnik. “But it’s honestly blown us away,” he said. “We’ve had interest from as far and wide as Singapore, the United States and South Africa, and they all want to know more. Already we’re looking at launching a RunVenture Tour next year in another really exciting destination.”

For more information on the Bali RunVenture Tour visit the SwashbucklersClub.com.

Although the Early Bird Pricing deadline has passed, mention InShape News when you book before May 31 and you’ll receive a special 10 percent discount off the price of the tour.

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GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT HELPING TO REDUCE HIGH LEVELS OF STRESS

March 14, 2013 By

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:
By Nina Gass and Tricia Snell
 

The Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is changing the lives of Australians, one guest at a time. Tucked away in the mountains above the Gold Coast in the Tallebudgera Valley, this lifestyle retreat aims to reduce stress, which according to Lifeline Australia affects 91 percent of Australians in at least one important area of their lives while almost 50 percent feel very stressed.

This level of stress is not only impacting the social lives of Australians, but it is also creating an adverse effect on the economy. Medibank reported that Australian employees are absent an average of 3.2 working days each year due to stress, which costs the country’s economy approximately $14.2 billion.

Gwinganna is focused on minimising this impact. The retreat sends its guests on a journey of discovery that leads them to a way to restore their health and vitality while de-stressing and unwinding. Not far from Brisbane, the retreat truly feels like it is situated a world away from the hectic pace of current Australian life. From detoxification and wellness techniques to organic cuisine and nutritional counselling to exercise and relaxation, this retreat delivers a comprehensive, holistic approach that has changed the lives of its guests.

The Gwinganna Team are Relaxation Focused

Behind Gwinganna, which is situated on a plateau and spans over 500 acres, is a team of experienced health retreat, lifestyle and culinary professionals. This includes Tony de Leede, owner and founder; Sharon Kolkka, general manager and lifestyle specialist; Hermann Schafellner, resident organic chef; and Carolina Rossi, nutritionist. All share a philosophy of helping people to add balance and ignite their passion for personal health and wellness.

Surrounded by ocean and valley views, Gwinganna, which means ‘lookout’ gains its name from the Australian Aboriginal people who were the original custodians of the land. With a vision of creating a full-service health retreat that embraces its heritage, successful Australian Body Works developer and owner de Leede has spent a number of years renovating the Gwinganna property. Additions include more accommodation, a gymnasium, another pool and training studios. Then, there are the custom-designed spa facilities and professionally trained staff.

“The focus is on the guest experience,” said de Leede. “Our staff members’ ability to understand and impact upon the retreat experience consistently makes Gwinganna a ‘must visit’ location and helps fulfil our objective of helping people alleviate their stress,” he said.

Gwinganna Strives to Deliver Lifelong Changes

The retreat is not your traditional health and wellness getaway. Instead, it aims to turn the guest experience into lifelong lifestyle changes. This means that focus is placed on the guest experience, says Kolkka the retreat’s general manager, which is an evolutionary process that serves as a support network for busy, exhausted people who are seeking to improve the quality of their lives.

“Each year, we review our programs,” said Kolkka. “This ensures that we are delivering the skills and support that people need to thrive and enjoy satisfying lives full of vitality,” she said.

“The structure of each day is unique and custom-designed to work with the body’s natural circadian rhythm,” said Kolkka. “The concept of afternoon Dreamtime is unique to our retreat and allows guests to rest, recover and enjoy the spa on their schedule,” she said. “Physical activities are divided into Yin and Yang, and guests learn how to understand their bodies’ needs.”

“Beyond the extensive service menu of health and wellness options, our location provides a way for guests to get up-close and personal with wallabies, koalas and native birds,” said Kolkka.

Additionally, Gwinganna is committed to sustainability. Currently, it is the only Australian wellness retreat to be eco-certified. This commitment extends to every aspect of the retreat – from its purchasing policy and organic food and skin care to a full-time organic gardener who teaches guests how to grow their own food, along with an organic chef who prepares all of the guest meals.

Organic and Biodynamic Foods Add to the Gwinganna Experience

Speaking of food, Gwinganna provides a bountiful culinary experience to show guests how delicious and fulfilling it can be to focus on organic, biodynamic food. The menu may also may make it easier for guest’s to avoid alcohol, cigarettes, drugs and foods that are not allowed at the retreat while they undergo detoxification.

“Gwinganna’s food philosophy is to use low human intervention when preparing food,” said Rossi. “This increases the nutritional value and helps the body absorb more nutrients,” she said. “Having an organic diet dramatically reduces pesticide levels in the body, decreasing the body’s toxicity. Finally, a balanced diet of carbohydrates, proteins and fats can help with various body functions, optimizing health.”

The onsite organic chef could not agree more with this philosophy. Chef Schafellner creates the retreat’s menu with the help of de Leede and Rossi, ensuring suitability and nutritional content.

“Real food is energising for the body and adds vitality,” said Schafellner. “In turn, this helps motivate people to be more physically active,” he said.

“Focusing on organic, clean food that minimizes toxins in the body can also improve one’s mental and emotional state,” said Schafellner. “I’ve watched guests change over the week that they are here,” he said. “It’s amazing and rewarding.”

Gwinganna Guests Feel Empowered to Live Healthier 

Many Gwinganna guests have experienced significant changes, including a sense of calmness, vibrancy and contentment. They are implementing Gwinganna principles, which have helped change their outlook and reduce or eliminate stress.

Guests, such as Angela Egan, entrepreneur, and Kirby Leitch, a nurse placement supervisor, who have spent time at Gwinganna cannot speak highly enough of the retreat and its positive impact on their lives.

Egan, who holds a bachelor of commerce degree in human resource management and marketing, visited the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat on three occasions. Her first visit was in February of 2009, her second in January of 2010, and her last was in October of 2012.

“The first time I experienced Gwinganna I was suffering from chronic fatigue and sleep deprivation,” said Egan. “Since participating, I have significantly changed my life for the better,” she said.

“The best thing about all of the programs at Gwinganna is that they are a combination of physical, emotional, spiritual and nutritional wellbeing,” said Egan. “They are a holistic program that ensure participants can share as little or as much as they want,” she said. “They also always have yin (slower more nurturing) and yang (faster more action based) activities so that it provides a balance and caters for everyone on the program.”

“Above all though the food is absolutely amazing,” said Egan. “It is 100 percent organic and about 25 percent of it is grown on site,” she said. “It is delicious and nutritious and you feel as though you are dinning in a 5-star restaurant for every meal – well you kind of are.”

Leitch, who holds a bachelor of nursing degree and a graduate diploma in psychological studies, visited the Gwinganna Retreat in December of 2012 on a 7-day detox package.

“It was a health reset button for my body,” said Leitch. “I detoxed off caffeine, dairy, gluten, sugar and alcohol,” she said. “I exercised every day and the spa treatments were amazing.”

Leitch, says that at-first the package was testing, especially as her body adjusted to a lack of the everyday stimulants it had been used to consuming.

“It was challenging for the first 3 days, in the sense that I experienced headaches and nausea at times,” said Leitch. “Once this past, I experienced better quality sleep, increased energy levels and a general feeling of happiness within myself,” she said. “I could feel myself improving every day.”

“The spa sanctuary is absolutely beautiful,” said Leitch. “The treatments are aimed at making you feel calm, relaxed and pampered,” she said. “There are many options to choose from. It’s hard to pick.”

“It [the retreat] allowed me to take a break from my life,” said Leitch. “After partaking in the seven-day detoxification program, I felt healthier on a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level,”she said. “As a registered nurse, I learned a lot about illness and diseases as well as prevention through a holistic approach. I have been able to incorporate in my life and those of my patients.”

For more information about the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, please visit www.gwinganna.com.

 

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION COLLEGE GIVES CAMBODIAN CHILDREN A BRIGHTER FUTURE

March 13, 2013 By

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:
By Nina Gass and Tricia Snell
 

Aiming to improve life for disadvantage children in Cambodia, many of whom work from a young age and live in poverty, the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE) and the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) have teamed-up to offer a mutually rewarding and life-changing educational experience held in Cambodia for ACPE students and Cambodian Children.

The ACPE Cambodian Cultural Experience, which began in 2011, is helping Cambodian children by giving them a reprieve from their exhausting daily activities. A recent Understanding Children’s Work (UCW) report estimates that some 52 percent of 7 to 14-year-olds, or 1.4 million children are working. This, says the UCW, prevents children from gaining an education and also harms their individual welfare. Plus, it slows the ability to tackle poverty.

Yet, programs like the ACPE’s Cambodian Cultural Experience Program is bringing attention to the plight of Cambodian children and providing them with education, new sport and activity experiences, and life-skills training not to mention fun.

Australian College of Physical Education Students Gain a Great Deal from the Experience

Scott Reynolds, who is 21-years-old, has seen first-hand that the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE) and the Cambodian Children’s Fund are working to improve the lives of disadvantaged children in Cambodia. For the second year in a row, Reynolds has been fortunate enough to travel to Cambodia on a three-week programme that has enriched his own studies and focused on helping others upon graduation.

Reynolds, currently studying for a Bachelor of Applied Fitness at the ACPE, has gone from the ‘happy shock’ of his first visit in 2011 to mental and physical preparation for the second trip he took in December 2012.

“While a lot of the program was the same, which helped me get ready by being more fit and organised with my hydration and diet plan, I also noted small changes that made it feel like a new experience,” said Reynolds. “There were new buildings and programmes for the kids,” he said.

“Best of all, though, was the fact that the number of kids participating had greatly increased from the previous year,” said Reynolds. “Some of the same kids I had met the previous year had greatly improved their English and fundamental movement skills,” he said.

Sarah Trees is another Australian College of Physical Education student who could not resist returning to Cambodia for a second time. Trees who first went to Cambodia in 2011 says the trip teaches her so much about herself.

“It’s strange to think that the people you meet, who live in such poverty, can teach you so much about what kind of person you want to be,” said Trees. “Compared to us, these people have nothing and yet they are some of the happiest, grateful and peaceful people I have ever met,” she said.

The Australian College of Physical Education Program Improves Life For Cambodian Children

The program is a way to take Australian students outside of the classroom and into the real world. The aim is to create well-rounded students through their time helping Cambodian children improve their own chances of having a better life. For both the Australian students and the Cambodian children, it is an opportunity to experience new things, challenge themselves, and exchange cultures for a life-long impact.

“It is an amazing live experience,” said Reynolds. “I felt very happy and warm inside, knowing that what I was doing was so rewarding,” he said.

Yet, he has some practical advice for anyone considering the programme.

“This trip is not for everyone,” Reynolds said. “It is very demanding. The temperatures and humidity can be challenging,” he said.

“You work at least 12 hours a day,” said Reynolds. “It’s a third world country, and it quickly reminds you how different it is from Australia,” he said.

Neglect and Malnutrition are Pushed Aside for Swimming, Health and Wellness and First Aid  

Despite many of the Cambodian children show signs of suffering like physical neglect, malnutrition, acid burns and limb amputation, they are positive, enthusiastic and eager to learn. Learning environments include classroom instruction and  essential life skills such as swimming, health and wellness, and first aid. Then, there is the sport, which introduces children to Australian favourites like Ultimate Frisbee, Oz Tag, and Cricket as well as Volleyball, Soccer, and Basketball.

On his trip this year, Reynolds experienced just how eager these students were to have these opportunities.

“The children are very thankful,” said Reynolds. “They will listen intently to every word and the demonstrations you give them,” he said. “Then, they will go and practice for hours until they have perfected what you showed them.”

“Although it [the program] is only three weeks, these children have a chance to see what is possible, and I hope it helps lead to positive change for them,” said Reynolds.

For more information about the APCE and the Cambodian Cultural Experience, please visit www.acpe.edu.au. To donate to the Cambodian Children’s Fund or learn more about the plight of Cambodian children, please visit www.cambodianchildrensfund.org.

Ultimate Frisbee Defined

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ART FOR MARK LOBERT IS A LIFESAVER

March 6, 2013 By

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:
By Nina Gass and Tricia Snell
 

Adelaide artist and gallery director, Mark Lobert,  47, who has battled lung disease over the last 18-months says that art is his breath of fresh air.  Lobert, however, is one of many. According to the Lung Foundation Australia, some 7 million Australians over 35  are at risk of lung diseases, including lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Art for Lobert is a lifesaver. It has helped him cope with lung disease as well as diabetes over the last ten years. It has also provided him with purpose and balance, igniting his creative spirit and inspiring him to share the life-saving properties of art with others.

When it comes to health issues, Lobert is not alone. Lung disease and diabetes are among the significant diseases impacting Australians. Lung Foundation Australia estimates that nearly one in seven Australians over 40 has COPD. While 4 percent, or 898,000 Australians have diabetes. A rise of 1.5 percent since 1989.

However, despite the debilitating nature of such illnesses, Lobert shows no signs of slowing down. From art workshops for corporate and team dynamics to lessons for the disabled to entrepreneurial success, he has added layers of colour and expression to his life.

Lung Disease is Debilitating But Art Makes it Bearable

Lobert, South Australian award-winning artist, has experimented with colour and technique all of his life.

“I started to paint as a creative way to express myself, and it grew from there,” said Lobert. “My art is who I am,” he said. “Some works are simple, bright and bold. Others are complex, intricate and layered. I am all those things often at the same time.”

And, it is art that may have been his haven during those times when his illnesses led to feeling overwhelmed or hopeless.

“The lung disease can be so debilitating that just walking and doing everyday activities can make it hard for me to breathe,” said Lobert. “On those really tough days, I pushed myself to paint a few strokes,” he said. “I would become so absorbed in that work that eight hours later not only would I have created a new art piece, but I also exercised my mind and body.”

Art Fuels Lobert’s Passion to Create

It is this sense of achievement which pushes Lobert, even when his body is resistant. This drive is also fuelling Lobert’s entrepreneurial spirit to create a business and to help others. Lobert sells his art as well as hires it out so clients can enjoy art in their home or office in a way that fits their budget.

“Typically I hire to corporate clients to enhance their offices and buildings and to those selling their homes to help engage buyers during the sale process,” said Lobert. “I work with each client to establish the best and most suitable art and financial arrangement for them,” he said. “Hire can be short or long term and from as little as $50 a month.”

Lobert also focuses on bringing art to others. He does this by way of hosting exhibitions and displaying art work from a range of artists. This says Lobert encourages others to find themselves through art as he did.

Art Generates a Physical, Mental and Emotional Well-being

Lobert has been running art workshops for two years as a way to build team dynamics, encourage creativity and to have fun working together. His own life-saving experiences with art have encouraged him to make it accessible to others who can benefit from its answer to physical, mental and emotional issues to stimulate well-being.

“I initially conducted art classes for people living with a disability,” said Lobert. “They enjoyed the sessions and felt positive after finishing their own original art,” he said. “This inspired me to start the art workshops so more people could experience these same positive feelings.”

“I found that individuals who had never met before were building rapport during the three-hour class,” said Lobert. “That’s when I decided to apply that to workshops for organisations that wanted to grow their team dynamics.”

For more information about Lobert artworks and exhibits at the Mark Lobert Gallery, paintings for sale or lay-by, or to participation in art workshops, please visit http://www.marklobertgallery.com.au.

The Mark Lobert Gallery is located in Adelaide at Port Adelaide precinct, 111a Lipson Street, South Australia.

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WORKPLACE HEALTH CHALLENGE IS IMPROVING WORKPLACE INJURY AND ILLNESS AND CHANGING EMPLOYEE AND EMPLOYER MINDSETS.

February 15, 2013 By

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:
By Nina Gass and Tricia Snell
 

Workplace Health Challenge (WHC), an intensive workplace health improvement program, is seeking to minimise workplace injury and illness that Work Safe Australia estimates cost more than $50 billion a year.

Workplace injuries and illnesses, state the Australian Bureau of Statistics, are both physical and psychosocial and can have an impact on long-term health. In fact, research indicates that sitting down for prolonged periods at work can increase heart disease, diabetes and mortality risk.

Australian Health Survey results agree that radical change to Australian health is a must. While smoking is down three percent in the last four years and drinking rates have dropped 1.4 percent, the number of people considered overweight and obese has risen by more than two percent. This means that nearly two-thirds of the Australian population are classified as overweight or obese.

WHC has been implementing policies, procedures and programs since 2002 that are transforming individuals and the workplace. Many WHC participants have reduced high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, lost five to 50 kilograms of body fat, and have improved muscle strength and body tone as well as gained more energy and vitality.

Workplace Health Challenge’s Events are Having a Profound Impact

Workplace Health Challenge (WHC) and Operation 10 Kilos founder Julian (Jules) Smith is intent on changing the mindset of employees and employers when it comes to fitness, health and well-being. Smith, who holds a bachelor of health science degree from RMIT University, has been working since 2001 to bring these innovative events to workplaces throughout Australia and around the world.

The events yield multiple benefits, including those that impact the corporation’s bottom line – reduced sick leave, improved time management skills and greater productivity. Employees see that their employers are concerned about their health, wellness, and quality of life. The life-saving results of these programs are also helping prevent early death from illness and disease.

“While these types of benefits have been proven, it’s still been a tough battle over the years to convince some organisations,” said Smith. “These organisations have not placed an importance on health and well-being programs for their staff. Our response was to start offering our events ‘free of charge’,” he said. “We have gone from just five to 10 workplaces each year to hundreds of organisations that now pay a small entry fee per participant. These include both owner operators and large corporations in Australia and across 80 countries.”

Workplace Health Challenge Utilises Team Principals to Encourage and Motivate

Smith believes the four-time per year, twelve-week long WHC events are a must do for workplaces. Although all health, fitness and weight loss programs share the same principles – eat healthy, exercise and stay motivated – what makes WHC different is the impact it has when an entire workplace is involved.

“The power of the WHC lies within the workplace environment and is based on the ‘peer group pressure principle,” said Smith. “We are all in this together,” he said. “WHC is the ultimate team event. Success comes from the teamwork because those participating are encouraging, motivating and disciplining one another to achieve the program goals.”

“WHC is based on a system of success that includes eating five to six healthy meals a day, implementing a sound and simple exercise program of under three hours per week and utilising the systems in our book to track and monitor progress,” said Smith. “Having four events that coincide with the seasons helps keep participants on target. It’s a long-term strategy where organisations and individuals use a multi-year plan to achieve their goals.”

2013′s New Workplace Health Challenge, Operation 10 Kilos, Will Be the Ultimate Challenge

Smith feels all his efforts, over the years, have produced numerous memorable results – from a feature story on Channel 9’s A Current Affair to every organisation that has ever ‘given the WHC a go.’

“Since humble beginnings where the first ever WHC event and program was launched in my former football club, West Brunswick Football Club in Victoria, Australia, the WHC grew into a workplace based concept,” said Smith. “My thought was if it worked so well for a bunch of amateur footballers by transforming their lives, then it will ‘bloody’ work for a workplace,” he said.

“Officially, WHC first launched within the power and mining industry in La Trobe Valley, Victoria, Australia at Hazelwood Power Station,” said Smith. This program had over 8 companies participate and well over 100 employees join, including staff from companies such as Fluor, BAE Systems and Alstom.”

Since then, says Smith, staff and management from organisations such as Cadbury Schweppes, ANZ Bank and Australia Post, as well Telstra, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Australian Customs and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), just to name a few, participate in WHC events and programs.

The many participant success stories, from the local football club where the program initially launched to those across all industries, have been the inspiration for Smith’s number one health and fitness tip.

“Don’t Quit,” said Smith. “We’ll be updating the program to reflect our new 2013 strategy,” he said. “But be warned, this will be the ultimate challenge!”

To find out more about Workplace Health Challenge and the new program, Operation 10 Kilos set to launch this year, or to register your interest, visit www.workplacehealthchallenge.com. Julian Smith can be contacted directly at info@workplacehealthchallenge.com.

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DIETICIAN SHAMALA RATNESAR TACKLES LIFESTYLE DISEASES WITH TOTAL LIFE SOLUTION

January 16, 2013 By

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:
By Nina Gass and Tricia Snell
 

Award-winning dietician Shamala Ratnesar is committed to reducing type 2 diabetes and heart disease, known lifestyle illnesses that have cost Australians more than $15.3 billion.

Diabetes Australia estimates that 280 Australians are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a preventable disease, every day. Therefore, Ratnesar’s solutions are focused and strive to deliver a healthier and happier lifestyle by developing a longer, leaner body.

In fact, many of Ratnesar’s clients, with pre-diabetes and diabetes, have made dramatic changes thanks to her extensive research. Based on strong medically-driven results, Ratnesar’s HOPE Formula and Total LIFE Diet appear to be working.

Insulin Resistance is an Underlying Problem

Ratnesar, an accredited practicing dietician, speaker and author, who holds a master degree in nutrition and dietetics, oversees a weight loss and lifestyle clinic in Sydney. Her Total LIFE Diet has helped so many people that a major health research institute is now conducting a study to see how the program compares to the current Australian Government guidelines.

Having seen a rapid increase in cases of pre-diabetes and diabetes, Ratnesar says that many of her clients are seeking to lose weight and to regain their energy, but that they also wish to feel full.

“The underlying problem is a condition called insulin resistance,” said Ratnesar.  ”This occurs when insulin doesn’t work properly after it reaches our body cells,” she said. “These health problems are due to poor food choices and a lack of exercise. Many people also under-estimate just how much they actually eat and what constitutes a serving.”

The Answer to Beating Diabetes is Diet Related

Ratnesar wants people to understand that most diets are myth and fad based and  will not lead to healthy living. Her extensive studies on Omega-3, food and weight control have found that shakes, supplements and pills are just gimmicks. There also does not seem to be any scientific basis for eliminating carbohydrates or sugar from ones diet. “Instead, the answer is a comprehensive nutrition, health and weight loss program. The HOPE Formula helps achieve many different health and weight goals,” said Ratnesar. “H=healthy and tasty diet; O=Omega-3 magic; P=positive thinking and positive action; E=Exercise,” she said.

“Having a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean going without or feeling hungry,” said Ratnesar. “If anything, it’s about abundance, variety and quality. It’s okay to eat bread and potatoes, and diabetics can have a little sugar. The ideal diet balances significant quantities of protein, legumes, vegetables and low-fat flavourings,” she said. “You can include a small amount of good fat like canola and olive oils as well as herbs and spices. Imagine eating pizza, fish and chips, and Black Forest cake, but still losing weight. It’s possible.”

The Total Life Diet is a Solution for Everyone

The philosophy behind Ratnesar’s Total LIFE Diet is about enjoying life to the fullest, rather than telling you what you cannot eat or do. Ratnesar has spent considerable time creating options to suit everyone. This includes the young and old, vegetarians and meat lovers, and the busy person as well as someone on a tight budget.  Overall, the Total LIFE Diet is a customized solution for those looking to lose and maintain their weight for life.

“I believe The Total LIFE Diet book is a life-saving program that can transform the lives of millions of people in Australia,” said Ratnesar. “My hope is that, with such a range of meal plans and globally-inspired recipes, everyone will find something they like to keep them motivated to reach their goals,” she said.

Shamala Ratnesar’s books, The Total LIFE Diet (The Total LIFE Diet Centre, 2012), RRP $35.00, The Omega-3 Diet Revolution (Pan Macmillan, 2006), RRP $33.00 and The Omega-3 Life Program (McGraw Hill, 2002), RRP $30.95, can be found online. All three books can be purchased as a bundle for $66.00 at The Total LIFE Diet Centre.

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The 2012 Kidney Kar Rally is Outback Bound

January 6, 2012 By

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:

If you love the Australian Outback, have a passion to try something new and adventurous that is challenging and want to support a worthwhile cause, then Kidney Health Australia’s Kidney Kar Rally is just for you.

The Kidney Kar Rally is a charity event like no other, because it is organised by individuals who have rallied competitively for most of their lives, it follows the traditions of the Australian reliability trials of old, and it caters to everyone no matter your age, driving experience, or vehicle type.

Those who are successful in life are often adamant about giving to others, becoming more community focused, and contributing a portion — often 10% — of their earnings, to help those that are less fortunate than they are. However, gone are the days where a philanthropist simply writes out a cheque and posts it, in order to support a charity that they feel warrants their financial assistance. Today’s philanthropist can now make giving an activity where they become involved in a fun-event, get to know a little more about the organisation, and connect with like-minded souls from all walks of life.

One such event is Kidney Health Australia’s Kidney Kar Rally, which challenges the mind, revives the soul, and gives the body time-out from its normal everyday existence. This event is unique, because it not only supports Kidney Kids, an initiative that focuses on giving children affected by kidney disease, and their families, a much-needed reprieve from the rigors of kidney illness, but it also follows the traditions of the Australian reliability trials from the 70s. Trials, which test the driver and navigator as well as the vehicle and have results recorded on time-distance averages.

The overall beauty of the Kidney Kar Rally, however, is that it caters to all entrants regardless of their rallying experience, and it can be as competitive or as relaxed as you like. Some entrants take longer to traverse the 4,000 kilometres event than others. Nevertheless, all entrants are involved because they believe in the cause, are passionate about cars, and do not mind getting down and dirty, especially when their fundraising initiatives and entry fee support Kidney Health Australia and their endeavours.

Kidney Health Australia, originally known as the Australian Kidney Foundation, opened its doors in 1968. Today, the not-for-profit organisation seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals and their families who are suffering, or affected by, kidney and urinary tract disease. In addition, Kidney Health Australia endeavours to raise community awareness about Chronic Kidney Disease, which, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, contributed to almost 10% of death’s in Australia during 2006 and more than 1.1 million hospitalisations.

Kidney Health Australia’s Kidney Kar Rally enables the non-government funded organisation to plan and implement children’s programs throughout the year. These programs include Kidney Kids National Camps, Kidney Kids Capers, and Kidney Kids Family Fun Days, all of which, allow children suffering from debilitating illness to enjoy those joyous and pleasurable activities that other children do daily.

Natalie Lansbury, mother of Maddi, an angelic 7-year-old girl recently diagnosed with ‘Dense Deposit Disease’, a rare and aggressive form of kidney illness, knows first-hand what Kidney Health Australia’s support means.

“When your child is on dialysis, you are so restricted. Everyday life revolves around their treatment and normality is gone. When Maddi went on the Family Fun Day, held at Luna Park, it was the most amazing thing to see. Her whole face lit up”, said Natalie. “Maddi went on the roller coaster time-and-time again, and had a huge smile on her face. Kidney Health Australia’s support made it doable and affordable, which we are so grateful for, especially when we are country-based.”

Maddi, according to Natalie, went into renal failure only three months after her diagnoses, and had been on dialysis for some 14 months. She had a donor kidney transplant on the 21st of March 2010 and spent a number of onths in hospital. Therefore, the happiness that the family were briefly able share, on the Family Fun Day, is a moment in time that they will hold very dear.

Peter Lanyon, whose daughter, Jodie, battled kidney disease for much of her life, also knows how supportive Kidney Health Australia can be. Peter, who is the Kidney Kar Rally’s longest competitor, has been with the rally since it began in 1989, some 22 years. For Peter and his daughter, Debbie, Jodie’s younger sister, the event is something that they cannot afford to miss.

“My initial involvement with the Kidney Kar Rally was through the inaugural event in 1989, which was then named the Kidney Kaper. My eldest daughter, Jodie, was a kidney kid. Diagnosed at the age of six, Jodie’s illness quickly developed into end-stage renal failure and, for the rest of her shortened life, she dealt with dialysis, transplantation, and rejection of donor kidneys. Throughout those early years, my wife, Wendy, and I were working with hospital social workers to foster support groups for other families of kidney patients. After reading about the upcoming event in the Sydney Daily Telegraph newspaper, I saw it as an opportunity to combine my desire to become involved in motorsport and a chance to contribute and learn more about kidney disease, function and support,” said Peter. “The feeling of family and mateship, which comes with every rally start, when all the participants come together for another year, is most memorable. The greatest thing though, is the continued support that my family give me throughout the year, and to have my youngest daughter, Deb, who waved me off as a seven-year-old in the first rally, become my navigator, which she has done now for the past six years.”

Over the years that Peter has competed in the event, he has seen competitors come and go and the event evolve into a popular “must-do” affair for the young and old.

“The first couple of events, although they were a competition, were more of a social event. Impromptu “bonnet parties” were held along the track with groups of competitors spreading out their goodies on a bonnet and the rest ‘digging in’. However, the problem with that was we weren’t getting into town ’til way after dark and we were missing all the meals,” Peter said. “The Rally of today offers different things to different people. It is still social in the evenings, but can also be competitive during the day if that is desirable. We also have cars that just come along for the ride, cruising through the day and enjoying the nightlife. Although people have come and gone over the years — some returning a few years later — the character of the people remains. All competitors have a strong community spirit and desire to help others, and this drives them through their fundraising efforts, with the goal at the end being an enjoyable “road trip” like no other.”

From city-to-town via some of the most remote outback locations, the Kidney Kar Rally has travelled across Australia from all compass points, and back again, more times than anyone can remember, and best of all, no two events are the same.

Kim and Arthur Davis, the rally’s road directors for the past 12 years, believe that the event is such a resounding success because of its safety record, comprehensive planning and diversity, and the shared camaraderie of each event.

“The Kidney Kar Rally has evolved into a much more well-known event in rally circles, especially with the number of charity events now being organised. The event prides itself on its unblemished safety record and the popularity of this rally speaks for itself with the number of participants taking part”, said Kim. “We have a very interesting and varied life, meeting new people on our travels around this wonderful country of ours, and each year we thoroughly enjoy the company of all of our “rallytives”, when we get together for yet another Kidney Kar Rally adventure.”

Kim has been involved in the administration-side of rallying, and a service-crew member for Arthur for over 30 years, and, Arthur has competed in rally events and organised them for more than 40 years. In fact, the couple met on a rally — Kim was administrating while Arthur was competing — and, from there, they built a lifetime together surrounded by wheels.

“Arthur and I actually met at a rally in the early 70’s when he was a competitor and I was assisting with admin. I have been the service-crew member for many of the rallies Arthur has been involved with, and of course the administration side-of-things. The most demanding being the NSW State Rally Championship in 2000. Our eldest daughter attended her first rally at the age of 4 weeks and has been involved ever since,” said Kim.

Arthur’s car rallying history is impressive, having competed in the International Southern Cross Rallies from 1972 t0 1980, the London to Sydney Marathon in 1977, and the Repco Round Australia Reliability Trial in 1979 as well as the N.S.W State Championship from 1982 to 1988, which he won in 1987, and the Mobil Round Australia Rally in 1996. In addition, Arthur has also organised many rallies for the Bathurst Light Car Club, including the N.S.W State Championship at Bathurst in 2000 and has been on the organising committee for the Wynn’s Australian Safari.

When asked how it felt to be involved in competitive car rallying, Arthur said, “As a competitor it is one of the most exciting things to do, tearing through the forests at 200kph in the middle of the night. The highs and lows of rallying are dramatic – from the highs of winning, to the lows of breaking down and being forced-out of an event.” Pausing to reflect for a moment, he added, “I feel extremely privileged as the sport has taken me right around-the-world, I have been to countries where no-one would dare go these days. Rallying is certainly ‘the sport’ for the biggest adrenalin rushes. The trust between driver and navigator is paramount. One cannot work successfully without the other; it is a real team effort.”

Listening to Kim and Arthur speak about their involvement with rallying, it becomes clear why the Kidney Kar Rally is so well-organised.

“We plan a rally by working out where the event hasn’t been in the past, where we think we can find suitable roads, and then we start the mapping process. Arthur does a huge amount of preparation before each rally, especially studying maps of the areas that the rally intends to run through. We spend up to 20 weeks a year ‘on the road’ searching for a suitable course,” Kim said. “We make a point of liaising with farmers, State Forestry officers, National Park rangers and government bodies to secure permits for the event to travel over their roads and tracks. We then drive backwards-and-forwards over the areas that we intend to use and finally chart the course.”

Once planned, Kim and Arthur then publicise the rally in all of the areas that the Kidney Kar Rally will travel. They carry out radio and press interviews, drop flyers into letterboxes throughout the rural areas where the rally passes, organise all of the catering for the eight-day event, and send out a list of all available accommodation, at each overnight stop, to the participants.

“The rest of our time is taken-up with the enormous amount of administration involved with running such an event – from taking entries and keeping accurate accounts of each participant’s fundraising money to answering enquiries from prospective entrants. It is important for us to keep the participants informed of all that is happening with the event each year, and we accomplish this primarily through a newsletter that we publish several times a year,” said Kim. “We make a point of being accessible to everyone at all times, either in person, by phone, or via email.”

Then, there is the preparation of the Kidney Kar Rally ‘Road Book’, which many competitors refer to as the “Rally Bible” because, without it, you are simply lost for direction. The Road Book contains instructions for all roads travelled during the rally and allows competitors to find and complete all stages.

“Creation of the ‘Road Book’ is huge,” said Kim. “As all our charting of the roads and tracks firstly needs to be put into the computer. Then, once complete, we print the whole lot and copy this and make it into books for all participants. Some 20,000 to 25,000 pages of paper make the ‘Rally Bible’ possible each year.”

The 2012 Kidney Kar Rally, which starts on August the 14th and finishes on the 24th, will travel from Mandurah to Bendigo via the Nullabor, and pass through many states. Typically, more than 50 vehicles enter the rally, and many of these will be looking to be the event’s highest fundraisers.

In previous years, the rally has raised more than $500,000.00 for Kidney Health Australia, with some of the highest fundraisers contributing more than $20,000.00 per vehicle. The beauty of being amongst the top-ten highest fundraisers for the event is that you start each day in the position that you obtained. For example, if you were the fifth highest fundraiser then your vehicle will start in fifth position daily.

The Kidney Kar Rally runs annually in August and the entry fee of approximately $4,500.00 per vehicle covers all meals and insurance for the driver and navigator. Additional team members can entry the rally for $850.00 each. If you do not want to compete in the rally but wish to follow the event or be a support vehicle for a competitor, you can enter as a ‘Kruise’ participant, or back-up vehicle for $2,500.00.

For more information on the Kidney Kar Rally and how you can be involved in this year’s event, or subsequent years, please contact Kim Davis toll-free on 1300 300 544 or email arkida@hotkey.net.au, or you can visit www.kidney.org.au.

Please Note: This article was originally written by Tricia L. Snell and published in Lifestyle Investor Magazine Vol. 1.6 | Issue May/June 2010. It has been updates and re-printed with the permission of the Lifestyle Education Group.

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MELINDA GAINSFORD-TAYLOR IS SPRINTING TO SUCCESS

December 29, 2011 By

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IN-DEPTH FEATURE:

Imagine standing before a crowd that consisted of hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world, on not one or two occasions, but three, whilst wearing the colours of your nation and representing your country.

If you can visualise this as well as harness the euphoria and sheer adrenalin that such a moment produces, then you would know how Melinda Gainsford-Taylor, Australian Olympic and Commonwealth Games sprinter and Wide World of Sports TV presenter, felt as she competed in the 1992, 1996, and 2000 Summer Olympic Games.

“My first Olympic experience was surreal,” Gainsford-Taylor says.

“I cannot forget the 100m and 200m qualification rounds. I was so excited to be there, but it didn’t really hit me until I went to the opening ceremony. I recall looking down at my uniform and thinking, ‘I’m here, and I made it.’ I had dreamt of this moment since I first started Little Athletics when I was nine and it was my dream to be an Olympiad.”

“The Aussies in that crowd were amazing, and I discovered how much I loved performing in front of a crowd and how much I enjoyed the competition. It was so much fun at Barcelona and Sydney, which was my third Olympics.”

“I have told my children stories about competing at the Olympics and have shared with them what it feels like to represent your country in a sport that you are so passionate about,” says Gainsford-Taylor, who is mum to Nicholas, 7 and Gabriella, 4.

“To finally achieve what I worked so hard to accomplish. That’s what made it surreal.”

“One of my financial goals now is to take my children to the Olympics, so that they can get a sense of the magnitude of such an event and how it resonates inside of you.”

Denoted for her smile and wonderful disposition, Gainsford-Taylor, who was born on the 1st of October 1971 in Narromine, a small country town inNew South Wales, can be simply described as one of the most jovial and light-hearted spirits to ever grace the Australian sporting arena. And, even though she confesses to be a humble farmer’s daughter, she has gained an impressive track record that dates back to when she first donned a pair of track shoes.

On a national level, Gainsford-Taylor has taken home bronze, silver, and gold for sprinting events, including the 1994 Commonwealth Games held in Victoria, Canada, and she has won more than 10 individual titles.

Tough Times

However, most Australians will remember her for her courageous effort at the 1998 Commonwealth Games where, in the final metre of the 200m race, her knee gave way to injury and she finished a disappointing fourth after leading the race. But, for Gainsford-Taylor, this made her more resolute than ever to succeed.

“After competing in 1998 and injuring my knee, it was tough. I had a really tough time because the Olympics were coming up in 2000 and I refused to give up. I wanted to compete in these games in front of a home crowd.”

Gainsford-Taylor, who retired from her sporting career in 2001 because she felt that her body had simply had enough and she longed to start a family with her husband, Mark, believes that her sporting career, amongst other things, has given her the discipline and skills needed to reach the top in a professional and investment sense.

“As a professional sprinter, I had a wonderful lifestyle because I was doing what I loved. I worked hard and succeeded, and I got to travel around the world and compete at the Olympics, which was a childhood dream. I had good times and bad times, and this is character building,” Gainsford-Taylor says.

“It’s the discipline and desire to achieve that drives you, and, after you retire from being an Olympic competitor, you reflect on what you have learned and this then builds you up for adult life. This is why I love kids being involved in sports because it teaches them so much.”

Gainsford-Taylor pauses and then adds, “It’s about teamwork. My upbringing taught me this. Parenting teaches you so much. We are a sporting family. My parents have taught me a great deal, and, from this, I believe that, when kids are young, you need to invest time, as good habits established early on give the greatest reward in the end. This can also be said of investment.”

When asked to elaborate on investment, Gainsford-Taylor laughs, stating that she could now be possibly giving herself away.

“I am a conservative investor. I think security, future, and family. I am not ‘a life is too short, so let’s do it’ kind of person. This is why I feel that super is so important, as I have seen people who have not invested in their future and they don’t deal very well with stress as they age.”

“Sporting careers are short-lived so I have always thought it wise to invest my money. We personally invest in property. We have rental properties and save for a rainy day. My husband and I bought a unit when we were engaged and its value has tripled since then. This unit was expensive and people thought we were crazy, but we weighed up the pros and cons and we wrote these down. The pros outweighed the cons so we went ahead and bought it and have never looked back. It was a really good investment back then and still is today.

Big on Savings

“I am big on saving for the future of my children as well, as it is tough for kids to break into the housing market these days.”

“Investment is like sprinting,” says Gainsford-Taylor. “When you run well or make a good investment, it makes you feel good and the reward pays off. Run bad or make a bad investment, and then you just have to work harder next time to be successful, and you must learn from your errors.”

Gainsford-Taylor, who is very family-orientated, believes that happiness, her family, and good health as well as security and being fit and active are the most important things in life in terms of lifestyle, and she also thinks that it is vital to turn off the computer and walk away from technology every now and then.

“I am so passionate about being a parent, though it can be quite frightening at first. As a farmer’s daughter with a conservative father who is smart with money, I learned to also be smart with money. I also want to pass this knowledge on to my kids so that they are smart with money as well. Plus, I want them to be active and fit so that they feel good about themselves and happy. From my athletic and family background, I want my kids to understand that sometimes life is not easy and that they can overcome their problems.” GainsfordTaylor adds, “Once you have kids, your whole financial focus changes. We immediately took out life insurance, income protection, and disability cover so that we covered all bases – do you know that it only costs a cup of coffee per week to cover your future – and this is important if you have a family and a mortgage, so that you cover your debts and provide for those you may leave behind in the event of an accident. You honestly just don’t know what life is going to dish out.”

But, if you thought that life after the Olympics, for Gainsford-Taylor, was all about her family, then think again. Gainsford-Taylor is the Australian national Olympic selector for track and field; she is on the board of Directors for the Manly Sea Eagles; and she coaches kid’s explosive speed sprinting three times a week for N.S.W Little Athletics. In addition, Gainsford-Taylor is also a public speaker, a public relations ambassador for Asset Superannuation, and a TV presenter for Wide World of Sports and Fox Sports.

When asked how she became involved with Asset Superannuation and the Wide World of Sport, Gainsford-Taylor tells two very compelling tales.

“I was working at a firm and I wanted to know more about superannuation, so I asked the accountant for financial advice, and he suggested Asset. I continued to ask around, and I also looked into it myself, and they seemed to be a really good option, so I opened an account. That was more than 14 years ago, and I have been with them ever since,” Gainsfrod-Taylor states. Then, laughing she adds, “Actually, it was funny, because they approached me to do PR for them after I had been a member for many years. Evidentially, someone noticed my name in the member listings and they thought I would be perfect for the role of public relations for their firm. It was an easy decision to endorse their product because I had been using their services for years and really believed in them, and I still do.”

“A lot of people think I have only just begun with the Wide World of Sport, but, once again, I’ve had a long association with them. I progressed to the Wide World of Sports from the age of 16 years. I did a talk for the program when I had stress fractures and was recovering. Then, I ended up doing work experience with them. So, twelve months ago, when I was asked to come on the show, I naturally jumped at the opportunity.” Giggling, Gainsford-Taylor says, “I have learned so much about sport, all different sports, which I find fascinating because I was so focused on my own sport. And, do you know that I discovered that I missed the adrenalin rush from being a sprinter and that live television replaces this for me? It is such a buzz.”

Time Management

So, how does Gainsford-Taylor manage to do all of this, be the full-time mother of two fit and active children, and juggle finances?

“The key is time management. As an athlete, I had to work hard on this. But, when I compare my life back then to now, that was a cruise.  Now, I write ‘must do lists,’ set myself a weekly schedule, and use the Internet as a resource. Honestly, it is vital that you constantly reassess and dedicate time to manage your finances. I usually make this a regular task throughout the week so that is does not become overwhelming and I can keep on top of it.”

And, when it comes to investment advice, Gainsford-Taylor believes that before you consider putting your money into anything, you need to ask questions and find someone you can trust, and then write down the pros and cons of the investment you are choosing to invest in before you start using your money.

“Money is hard to come by, so it is important to invest wisely so you don’t lose it, and you need to get good support and advice. Therefore, I firmly believe that you should start with low-risk investments, and then progress as you become familiar with the territory. Investment can be daunting, but, if you work out your risk level, as in what is suitable for you and your finances and what type of investment you would like to invest in, then it can be less inhibiting. I am really big on investing for the future.”

Gainsford-Taylor, who confesses that she is not one for expensive clothes and shoes or cars, sees her future being stress-free and all about security, comfort, and financial viability.

“I am investing in my life and that of my children. I want to be fit and healthy and be comfortable and reasonably secure. I don’t want to be rich in a monetary sense but rich in a lifestyle sense. I want to have savings and put this into high-investment accounts.”

For more information about Asset Superannuation, please visit http://www.assetsuper.com.au/.

Please Note: This article was originally written by Tricia L. Snell and published in Lifestyle Investor Magazine Vol. 1.5 | Issue March/April 2010. This article has been re-printed with the permission of the Lifestyle Education Group.

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TARKYN LOCKYER’S GAME OF SECURITY

December 28, 2011 By

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IN-DEPTH NEWS FEATURE:

Tarkyn Lockyer, Collingwood midfielder, trains hard and looks after his health and fitness, so that he can be the best he possibly can on the footy field, and he uses the same strategies when it comes to investment, looking for minimal risk and making hay whilst that sun shines.

Born on the 30th of October 1979, in Western Australia, Tarkyn Lockyer, a midfielder for Collingwood Football Club, declares that when he debuted in round 8, on the 15th of May, 10 years ago, he was simply blown away by the size of the crowd and the sheer magnitude of the game.

“Compared to the MCG, I played country football before playing for Collingwood. I remember being I in awe my first game; the size of the MCG, it is massive, and the game pressure was enormous, but fantastic,” Tarkyn said. “I also could not get over the support from members and fans, it was huge. On average there are 60,000 fans at one of our games, so when they cheer you can really hear it.”

Since his debut, Tarkyn has played over 200 games with Collingwood and has scored over 140 goals, earning him the title of ‘a consistent veteran’ amongst his fellow players and peers. In addition to this, Tarkyn has also been awarded four Best and Fairest trophies, being the RT Rush Trophy in 2000, the Jack Regan Trophy in 2001, and the JF McHale Trophy in 2002, as well as the JJ Joyce Trophy in 2007. He also placed as runner-up for the Copeland Trophy in 2000, and has accumulated 16 Brownlow votes.

Thought Tarkyn believes that his success on the field is attributed to a number of factors. “The brand of Collingwood is big, we train at second-to-none facilities, everything is there, and we are spoilt,” Tarkyn said. “Winning is more than just a victory. Post-game recovery is a pay off when you win, and your bruises and scratches are worn with honour. It is about putting the effort in and then getting the reward, this is what drives you week-to-week. I cherish this feeling after the game.”

During the 2009 season, Tarkyn played 22 games, scored 30 goals, and he ranked 1st in total marks taken, with a game average of more than 18 disposals. His season highlights included 29 disposals, 21 kicks, and 14 marks during the Brisbane match on the 17th of April, and scoring four goals in the match against North Melbourne on the 1st of May 2009.

However at only 178cm in height and weighing in at 81kg, Tarkyn Lockyer, who sports the number 24 guernsey for Collingwood, confesses that he is not the largest footy player on the field and this can have its drawbacks, especially when most players have a height and weight advantage.

“I am not overly tall or quick, therefore I have learned to do everything correctly away from footy, so that I can be professional on field and leave no stone unturned,” Tarkyn said.

But what the veteran lacks in height and speed, he makes up for in tenacity. In 2007, Lockyer led the league for marks with an impressive score of 203, proving that even those with a disadvantage can succeed.

“I don’t think I am unique, but I do think what sets me apart from others in AFL, is the fact that I know my strengths and weakness and I work on making these advantageous. My preparation for the game focuses on developing my skills and often this is intense.”

Lockyer has progressively worked toward establishing himself as one of Collingwood’s key midfielders, and at times as a defender. To reach the top in a sporting sense, Tarkyn believes that understanding the game on and off the field is the key to success.

“Purely from a footy sense, a good understanding of structures and good game play enables you to be successful. If you are not smart enough to read the game, then you will not cope with the pressures of the game, it is that simple,” said Tarkyn. “It is important to be able to use and depose of the football under duress. Plus, you need to get your body to a level where you can perform consistently.” Tarkyn pauses and then adds, “For some players, it is so easy to get distracted and off-track, especially when they have to deal with the point of views of the media, the public and the supporter. Therefore, it is important to be a role model and avoid bad publicity, you have to have a level head and make the publicity a fun scenario, so that you don’t get caught up in the Hollywood styled hype. Honestly, it is about coming into the game with hopes, and then developing your skills so that you cope with the game on and off the field, so that you don’t get caught.”

But, Lockyer’s football career with Collingwood has not been without its challenges.

Tarkyn Lockyer injured his knee during the 2003 season (April 12th), in a game against Geelong. He turned awkwardly and tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, during a tackle with Geelong’s David Wojcinski. The club doctor, Paul Blackman, stated at the time that he expected Lockyer to be unable to play for the next 6 to 9 months, and at the worst, it could possibly be as long as 12 months before a full recovery was made. Some 14 months later, Tarkyn returned to the field after having a knee reconstruction, and recovering from stress fractures to his right foot.

When asked about the ups and downs he has experienced in his career, and how he has coped, Tarkyn said, “From an injury point of view, routine and preparation help me get back to my former fitness, I just put everything I can into getting me back on top. I can’t speak highly enough of the sports medicine team at Collingwood they are incredible when it comes to rehabilitation and assisting players to get back what they had, and to feel success again.”

Tarkyn is grounded and family focused when it comes to life and lifestyle. “My whole life is clearly sport and football and the single most important thing I have to put my mind to, but my family is my number one accolade. I remember when my son came along, I then had an opportunity to put everything I had done into perspective,” Tarkyn said. “The five most important things in my life are my family, my health and well-being, football, financial security and assets, and friendships.”

Tarkyn’s son Charlie, who is three, is only but one of the footballers loves in life, his other two, apart from football, are his wife, Benita, and daughter, Leni, who is 18 months old. And it is these individuals that inspire Tarkyn to focus on his future and work toward greater financial stability.

“My driving force when it comes to investment is life after footy. When I exit the game, I want to have a good solid base and equity to support my young family, so that I can pay for my children’s schooling and then be able to sit back and watch my kids grow. I want something behind us, for us to have no mortgage to pay and to not have to be concerned with how the children’s schooling will be paid for, Tarkyn said.”

Predominately a bricks and mortar investor, Tarkyn also professes that he dabbles in shares, and has an investment portfolio and a broker. “When it comes to investment I guess I like to see my investments, this is why I elect to invest in bricks and mortar mostly. Very early on in my career I tried to get ideas and perspectives from the people I trusted, such as my parents, when it came to investment. My mum and dad kept telling me to buy a house. So I did. This was my first investment, and the feeling of home ownership was truly monumental,” said Tarkyn.

Tarkyn believes that when it comes to investment you make hay while the sun shines and this for him means minimising risks and looking at longer term investments rather than short term.

“When it comes to investment, do the research, because if you have enough information you can then work out if the investment is good or bad. I honestly believe in talking to as many people as you can,” Tarkyn said.

“Talk to financial advisors and other people you trust and respect, and ask them questions, get a lot of advice and tips, but just remember that you need to sort out the good information from the bad, and that you need to work out your investments for you and your own personal requirements. Keep your goals in mind, and be disciplined, for example – focus on paying off your house and paying your debts as soon as possible, and don’t get side-tracked with other things that involve higher risks and give you no apparent rewards.”

“I have a lot of faith in my manager, and the financial people who help me. I have my finances set up so I can concentrate on footy, and I don’t have to worry about payments, or financial stress.”

“I firmly believe it is about finding value for money and portfolio growth. Clearly if you are not making money, then you need to change something. I am all about security, I need to know where my money is growing,” Tarkyn said. “I watch stocks with my broker, and I have a hands-on approach. This comes back once again to advice.”

In addition to being a Collingwood player, Tarkyn also owns and runs Elite Lifestyle Solutions (ELS), a health, well-being and teambuilding initiative, in conjunction with fellow Collingwood team player, Nick Maxwell. ELS operates out of the Lexus Centre and includes group and one-on-one training sessions that incorporate running, riding, swimming, free-weights, and football skills, as well as innovative fitness and training concepts to improve lifestyle and the quality of life.

And, it is the philosophies that he teaches at ELS that construct Tarkyn’s ethics for life, as his future is about enjoying a quality of life with those that he loves the most.

“Lifestyle is really important, for me, it is about enjoying my family, watching kids growing and spending time with them when my footy career ends,” said Tarkyn.

“However, when it comes to my future investments I would have to say that I am intrigued with the housing market and how we are going to go in an investment sense, because of the recession. Many people have told me to invest in certain share portfolios, because we have seen the worse and we are out of it, but others say we are still in it and to just sit still. Me, I am sitting on my hands at present, and just waiting to see what unfolds.”

For more information on Tarkyn Lockyer, or ELS, please visit http://elitelifestylesolutions.com.au

Please Note: This article was originally written by Tricia L. Snell and published in Lifestyle Investor Magazine Vol. 1.3 | Issue November/December 2009. This article has been re-printed with the permission of the Lifestyle Education Group.

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Emotional Freedom Techniques Helping to Reduce Australian Obesity

December 21, 2011 By

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NEWS FEATURE

More than 56 percent of Australians are overweight or obese and some 72 percent lead sedentary lifestyles with little or no exercise.

Obesity in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, has a significant impact on the health and social lives of Australians, and affects economic conditions. All, of which, can be linked to a lack of exercise and a poor diet.

Rod Sherwin, an energy therapist at Tap4Health, an innovative weight loss medium, believes that weight and emotions are connected.

“I help people with emotional issues and peak performance,” said Sherwin. “Emotions drive our behaviours a lot of the time and this can apply to eating disorders and weight issues – the emotions that drive us to eat what we know we shouldn’t. I also work with the limiting beliefs and self-talk that holds people back from achieving their potential.”

Sherwin uses ‘Emotional Freedom Techniques’ or ‘EFT’ principles that were developed by Gary Craig, a Stanford engineering graduate and ordained minister, to help reduce Australian obesity.

“I came across EFT in my own personal development journey and thought it was so powerful that I needed to share it with others,” said Sherwin. “This method is a form of energy therapy, a generic term for the fields of energy psychology and energy medicine, which work with the body’s energy system to create mental, emotional and physical changes.”

Sherwin, who holds a Bachelor of Engineering and Science and is, currently studying Kinesiology, feels that EFT is an excellent weight loss motivator.

“EFT helps by dealing with the emotional drivers and sabotage patterns that are causing us to eat,” said Sherwin. “Whether we are depressed, angry, bored, anxious, or something else, eating supresses these feelings. Energy therapy can help identify, clear, and heal these emotional patterns. This then allows us to make conscious choices about when and what to eat, rather than doing so on autopilot.”

The proof is in the results says Sherwin, who does not believe in a ‘perfect’ lifestyle balance.

“Well, for starters, I don’t believe in ‘perfect’. There is ‘good enough’ and ‘what works for now’. Life is complicated and changes on a daily basis,” said Sherwin. “By making our goals and routines too rigid, we are actually imposing more stress on ourselves, which is counter to what we are trying to achieve in terms of health and wellbeing. Today, you might only be able to fit in a five minute workout because there is a deadline approaching but, tomorrow, you might be able to go for an hour’s exercise or to a meditation class because the deadline has now passed and the kids are all staying at a friend’s place.”

Sherwin, who balances his own energies using a variety of gentle exercises and martial arts, says that his number one health and fitness tip is to be gentle with yourself. He also believes that it is important to find out what works best for you and your body, especially when it comes to nutrition.

“Pay attention and notice what works for you. No diet works for everyone,” said Sherwin. “Some people do better with carbs for breakfast, some people, like me, do better with protein for breakfast. Take a scientific approach. Experiment with different food types and groups, and one hour later notice how you feel.”

Sherwin’s overall philosophy on health and fitness centres on three areas.

“Our health is a combination of our thoughts, emotions, and physical wellbeing,” said Sherwin. “We all tend to focus on one or two of these areas, but we need to pay attention to all three areas to gain optimal health and wellbeing.”

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