Compfit

STRESS

2009-03-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

In times of stress we release hormones into our body which can suppress our immune system, and keep us in a state of depression and illness. Understanding how the body reacts to our perception of any given event is the first step in moving into a higher state of health. When we allow a situation to overwhelm us for a prolong period of time the body responds by releasing hormones that tell the body to store fat, and make us more vulnerable to sickness. Knowing this allows us to re-access how we perceive experiences and maintain a positive healthy mindset throughout the day. Engaging in regular exercise and surrounding yourself with positive supportive people are also other great ways to balance the stress in our lives.

King 5 Evening Magazine-Seattle's Best Personal Trainer nomination

2008-09-17T10:15:00.000-07:00

Please take 30 seconds to vote for me at the King 5 website under Health & Fitness-Personal Trainer
http://best.king5.com/contests/best-of-western-washington/2336

Voting goes through October 13th, 2008

Thanks for taking the time, Blessings Eric

Term Blogging

2008-06-30T15:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been a full term since I last blogged. Surely this must put me in the category of older adults, that with the fact that I'm rapidly approaching 50 years of age. Funny, I feel like I'm just entering my thirties so I must be doing something right. Teaching my second term at Seattle Central and looking forward to several camping trips in the month ahead.
It's almost two months since the amazing World Rhythm Festival and my DVD has now taken form. The cover graphics and text are all complete and the 5 minute DVD promo will be complete within two weeks. Working hard to have it completed sometime in the fall. Stay tuned, I promise to blog more. (Picture of class at 08 festival)

Occasional Blogger

2008-04-20T11:01:00.000-07:00

Well, I thought it was high time I post another blog. Since my last blog I've been working hard on my DVD as well as begun teaching a personal training certification course at a local college here in Seattle. Next week is the 15th Annual World Rhythm Festival to be held at the Seattle Center and this year I've had the opportunity to act as the program coordinator which is truly a blessing. Although it consumed many hours during the winter and early spring it's always nice to contribute to something so worthwhile. If you have a chance, stop by Saturday April 26th to pavilion A where I'll be teaching my fitness dance class with some amazing musicians. Hope to see you at next weekends festival and stay tuned for my upcoming DVD. Happy and warmer spring temperatures to come. Eric

Return From The Playa

2007-09-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, what an amazing experience I had in the Nevada desert these past 10 days. I have just returned from my second burning man experience and this year I had the opportunity to teach two classes while I was there. I decided to schedule the classes at 11-am in the morning and learned the best time to teach on the playa (desert floor) is 1-am. Yes, that right just after midnight when it finally cools down a bit, which is definitely not 11am. I also lost 7 pounds over that time period from eating less because of the heat and having to either ride my bike or walk everywhere I went. Ultimately, I will put that weight back on over the fall and winter because of the coming holiday parties and cooler weather. The top picture was taken when I returned to my camp after being caught in my first sand storm. Now it's time to refocus my attention back on my DVD and creating original high intensity music to help you move. Ciao, Eric

Dance for Peace and Social Harmony II

2007-08-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a fun and exciting time we had last weekend on Alki Beach. It was a pleasure to perform with Diano Garcia (congas), Josh Metz (bass), Tyler Orion (trap set), Thione Diop (Djembe), and Lance Scott (Djun Djuns). We played the music we've been working on for my up coming DVD and the response from the crowd was overwhelming. Thanks to all who came and all who were there in spirit for this amazing event. Please stay tuned as we continue creating high energy music for movement and fun dance routines for exercise. Look forward to seeing you at the next event, Ciao Eric

World Rhythm Festival 07

2007-05-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who made it out to this years festival and to all of you who couldn't and still were there in spirit. It was a blast with a amazing turn out for my workshop as well as the entire festival. The band is still creating fun energizing music to dance to and you can check out our latest tunes at our weekly Tuesday class now featuring drum and bass. Ciao and blessings, Eric

Q&A Expert in Runner's World April Issue

2007-03-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

We'll it was nice to see my answer to a question from a reader of Runner's World Magazine in this Aprils issue. However, I did have to stop and think, hmmm do I really listen to country music for my cool down? I actually think country music is great and I had the opportunity to listen to quite a bit of it after graduating from college in 1985. I moved down south and lived with my grandmother for a year in the Florida panhandle while I decided what the next step in my life would be. It allowed me to experience a vastly different culture than the one I came from and a part of that was being introduced to country music. That being said I haven't listened to country music since that time, but do believe country music would make good cool down music because of its lower beats per minute. Check out the rest of the Q&A below or in a copy of this months issue (pg. 38). Ciao, Eric

Q: When I run with my iPod, I speed up on fast songs. Is that okay?
A: Sure. In fact, changing your pace by song is an excellent way to do interval training because typical tracks last three to five minutes-an ideal time for pickups. Put together a mix in which a fast song is followed by a slower one for recovery. For fast tracks, I like house, Latin, hip-hop, and rock. Stay away from beats that are too fast for your capabilities or workout goals. For slow songs, I go for country or pop ballads, easy listening, and world-beat music. Also, use slow songs for your warm-up and cooldown.
-Eric Wilson (compfit.com) is a personal trainer and percussionist.

Afro-Urban Groove

2007-03-20T16:34:00.000-07:00

Please come join us at the 14th Annual World Rhythm Festival held at the Seattle Center April 13-15th. This is a free festival with dance & drum workshops along with amazing performances from around the world. I had the honor of leading last year's Seattle Rhythm Festival and assure you this years festival will be great. Saturday the 14th I will be teaching a workshop from 1:45-3PM in the Center House. Here's a picture from 2005's festival and hope to see you on the 14th. For more information visit http://swps.org/swps?zs=4488116743;dpage=indrhythmfestival

Dance for Peace and Social Harmony

2007-03-04T18:09:00.000-08:00

Thanks for all who were involved in putting this event together and to everyone who attended, it was surely a great success. Afro-Urban Stew, my new band, played and brought the crowd to it's feet dancing with original percussion rhythms and fun dance movements. Please stay tuned as the band continues to grow and as we add a bass and saxophone to the mix. Keep moving and hope to dance with you soon, Eric

Much Thanks

2007-01-24T01:07:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to those who could make it to my first class of 2007. I had a blast and it looked like you did as well. As the drummers continue to create original rhythms we will continue to express ourselves through dance that we may become stronger by the spring and achieve our personal fitness goals. Thank you blessed drummers that we may continue to create beautiful music that moves us from our core. Hope to see you all next week, E

Tuesday Winter Dance Class

2007-01-10T14:06:00.000-08:00

Interpretive African/Funk Dance with Live Drumming
Every Body Health & Fitness Gym
2609 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98144 (Just West of MLK Ave.)
Tuesday, 01-16-2007 , 7PM - 8PM
Live percussion rhythms set the tone as I lead you through various dance styles (African, funk), core strengthening, and stretching. This class focuses on safe, fun movements designed to strengthen, tone, and ready your body for the coming Spring. $10 suggested donation and $5 for students. All level class, bring water, and a towel. Currently set for Tuesdays through February. 2609 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98144 (Just West of MLK Ave.) fenced parking lot next to gym. Call (206) 579-6880 for more information.

DVD Grooves

2006-12-29T10:32:00.000-08:00

For the last several weeks I've been meeting with some of Seattle top percussionist creating the grooves for the upcoming DVD. This is a very important part of the process in that the music must be able to motivate me to move before I can become motivated to move anyone else. Being involved in every aspect of this project from music and dance to branding and marketing I'm determined to make this product and effective tool that can be used as long as you continue to move. Stay tuned for some hot rockin tunes from the NW with a bit of ole funk.

Exercise DVD

2006-11-01T15:22:00.000-08:00

I must apologize for my lack of class and workshop activity over the last 6 months, however my time has been well spent producing my first Exercise DVD to be released in "07". Please stay tuned for more information about my first DVD and a workshop tour to follow.

Decompression

2006-10-05T21:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, now I know what decompression really means. Since my last blog almost a month ago I've been slowly getting back into the swing of everyday life. I lost 8 lbs during my burning man experience and feel a renewed energy to move into the fall. As I comb the city looking for a good space to teach my dance class (a space that will accept live drumming), I continue looking at the list of Fall projects to be completed. Next and biggest is my first exercise DVD to be released by the beginning of the New Year. Stunned tuned it should be a blast.

Return From The Playa

2006-09-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

Well I am back and in one piece. Wow, that was truly an eye opening 10 days in the desert. Having had the opportunity to experience other cultures abroad it was great to experience one so different here. The people were so nice and friendly (of course not all) and everyone seemed to have so much to share with each other. The art in all its many forms was something one could only imagine in a Star Wars, Austin Powers, Woodstock, Techno, and Alice in Wonderland meets in OZ movie. Actually that description is a bit too simplistic and I would recommend checking it out for yourself if you haven't been already. If you do go you may want to go with a theme camp so you'll have many of the amenities (electricity, shower, enough water) of being home, otherwise it could be pretty rough for a first timer alone. All in all I had a great time and loss a few pounds due to the heat (suppressed my appetite), and the work required to build a camp and get around the playa. For more information and pictures see: www.burningman.com and http://currenttv.com/burningman/

The Playa and Weight Loss

2006-08-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

Well it's finally approaching, my first if not last Burning Man Experience. After 9 years of listening to friends trying to convince me to get to the playa the time has finally arrived. I'll be in the Nevada Desert for 9-days living in extreme conditions consisting of dust storms, severe heat, and very cold nights, all the while surrounded by open-minded individuals from around the world. I've been told by some that I can't imagine how difficult it will be, and I think back to some long sick nights I experienced in Africa and know all will be well. What somewhat concerns me will be the noise level from 2 AM until 10 AM. Will ear plugs be able to assist me in attempting a slither of sleep that I might brave the elements for another day all the while focusing my attention on the most positive experience possible culminating with the burning of the man in center camp next Saturday night, wheeeew. One thing is for sure and that is I'll lose some weight. When the only way to get around all day is either by foot or bike and the daytime temperature exceeds 90 - 100 degrees (heat suppresses appetite) everyone there should either maintain or lose weight over the 9-day period. Hmmm, maybe next year at Burning Man I'll lead a playa weight loss week with my camp. For more information on Burning Man see, http://www.burningman.com/

Daily Stretch

2006-07-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

Over the last several months I've noticed my body has been a little more sore and tight. I'm attributing my discomfort to more movement during the Summer months, and not enough stretching or massages. I find that when I use my hot tub I stretch much more and feel over all more flexible and relaxed. I know most people don't have a hot tub, however a hot bath with lite stretching in the tub will do wonders. I know it's a bit hard to take a hot tub or bath at this time of year, but that's probably why I'm so sore. Hopefully we'll have a cool NW evening this weekend so I can feel 28 again.

Wow Wow

2006-07-17T10:54:00.000-07:00

Wow wow is the exact description of this years Seattle Rhythm Festival. During our final performance of the night Thione Diop (master drummer from Senegal) consistently used the above term to describe the energy after each song. It was great to see so many people still there after an 11 hour day full of drum and dance. Thanks again to the entire drum and dance community, which came together to make this festival such a great success in so many ways (including financially). If you weren't able to make it please stay tuned for the World Rhythm Festival coming Spring of 2007 @ www.swps.org

Greenlake Class

2006-07-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

Beginning next Wednesday July 19th I will be teaching a $5 core strengthening class starting at 6:30 AM in the morning. This class will follow Justina Patricio's free running group which meets at 5:30 AM every morning on the corner of Greenlake Way and 64th (across the street on the grass). You can meet with the group before heading around the lake at your own pace and return for a core workout. For more information about the running group contact justina at (justinapatricio@yahoo.com)

Much Thanks

2006-07-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

As the Rhythm Festival approaches I need to express the gratitude I have for all the angels who have stepped forward to assist with making this Festival happen. There have been so many, but I must say a very special thanks to two. Chris Neilson (SRF web-master) was the first person I consulted when making the decision to move forward with the application process. Knowing the time required for such an event and the man power that would be needed Chris assured me the drum and dance community of Seattle would fully come out to support this event. Well Chris was right and with all the time he spent in those first two critical months on this festival we all should be thankful.
Mary Jo Pertello (SRF Operations Lead) has been nothing less than amazing and has come in and dedicated countless hours to the details and operations of SRF 2006. It has been a pleasure to work alongside her knowing that the Community has a treasure in it's mist and a great musician to.
I could go on with so many others, but will finish by saying a huge thanks to the entire SRF lead team. This would not be happening with out you.
Let's have a great time Saturday.

Seattle Rhythm Festival

2006-06-28T00:49:00.000-07:00

The first Annual Seattle Rhythm Festival will be held July 15th, at the Seattle Center Center Stage House. I have the fortunate opportunity to lead this event with the support of the entire drum and dance community. Thanks to everyone who has stepped up to bring this Summer Festival to life. See www.swps.org/SRF2006 for festival schedule.

March Fitness

2006-03-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

March is a great time to begin your new fitness routine and to make significant changes by the Summer. Over the last several days, not only has it been sunny here in the NW, the temperature has been mild and conducive to outdoor movement activities. Get out side and take a walk, or come to my Sunday Sweat Class, and before you know it the Summer will be here and so will your new healthier self.

February 12th Class

2006-02-12T14:56:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all for coming to todays first Class aka "The Sunday Sweat". It was a great turnout and the first hard core movement I've had since returning from the Super Bowl. I will no longer include the freestyle portion at the end of class. Please remember to bring water, a towel, and mat if you can. See you next Sunday and a big thanks to the drummers.

Super Bowl

2006-02-07T00:13:00.000-08:00

Wow, just got back from the Super Bowl in Detroit and just remembered how exhausting travel can be. I will rest up for my First Sunday Class, which is scheduled for this coming Sunday the 12th.

New Class Time

2006-01-21T12:15:00.000-08:00

Well I've just been booted out of my Tuesday class scheduled time because H&R Block complained about the drumming being too loud. Oh well, I guess I'll have to try Sunday mornings 10:30 - 12PM at the Velocity space at 911 Pine St. It will be a mix of African/funk dancing with core strengthening, stretching, and probably a bit of meditation to end class. Looks like the first class will be on the 29th of January (Chinese New Year)

Insrtumental Version

2006-01-15T20:44:00.000-08:00

Good news all, I just received the instrumental version of the Fitness Rhythm CD. It will be available on Amazon and at the University Book Store by months end so please tell a friend. It sounds great with newly added bass tracks for increased energy. Should be having an event soon so please check my website for my details.

Regular Class on Tuesdays

2006-01-13T10:27:00.000-08:00

From now on until March Tuesdays 5:30 - 6:30 will be my new class time. This one hour class will be designed to work you hard for a one hour time period with dance and core strengthening. Hope to see you next Tuesday and tell a friend, Eric

Compfit

2005-12-26T22:26:00.000-08:00

I find it much harder in the winter to engage in consistant movement. Dance classes and yoga have been the anwser for incorporating movement into my daily lifestyle. Sawe has a great class on Wednesday night at Spectrum Dance Center. Of course if you haven't had an opportunity to check out my class please do so tomorrow night Tuesday, December 27th. Happy Holidays, Peace E

Compfit

2005-12-22T22:38:00.000-08:00

It's been tough getting my workouts in lately. Also been eating more at Holiday parties. Lucky for me my friend lo lo invited me to her yoga class tonight. Looks like a great way to catch up and move at the same time. A movie afterwards works as well.

2005-12-22T22:08:00.000-08:00

"Making music for movement"

Fitness video taping

2005-12-18T23:30:00.000-08:00

If you are in town this Tuesday make sure to stop by class for a great workout to some live music. I've decided to focus the last portion of class on body toning movements to complement the cardio dance portion class.
I have also begun putting together the dance sequence for my first fitness video which should begin shooting the beginning of this coming year. Stay tuned for more info.

Preparing to release 2nd CD

2005-12-16T12:32:00.000-08:00

I have just received the CD design art work for "Fitness Rhythms, Instrumental Version" and should receive the mastered copy of the CD with in days. Thanks to all who have purchased and supported me through this process and for keeping my Cd as one of the best selling workout Cd's on Amazon.com.
Next week starts the process of putting together the team who will help me create my first exercise video to be released in 2006.
Hope to see you in my next dance class December 20th, 2005 (see www.compfit.com for more details).

Next Tuesdays Class

2005-12-13T14:30:00.000-08:00

Live percussion rhythms set the tone as Eric leads you through various dance styles (African, funk), core strengthening, and stretching. Live music lends a unique flavor to this spiritual experience, while you learn to move safely.

All level class, work at your own pace. 3-class punch card $25 ($8.33 per class) or 1 class drop in $10. Bring water, and a towel.

Tuesday December 20th & 27th from 5:50 - 6:50 PM
911 East Pine St. (Just off the corner of Broadway and East Pine St., next to H&R Block).