Show notes
The Down Syndrome Ironman Chris Nikic attempts to be the first to complete an Ironman event with Down Syndrome. Welcome back to the Living Healthy Podcast! Today we’re going to be talking to an inspirational young man named Chris Nikic – The Down Syndrome Ironman. You see, Chris has Down Syndrome and by crossing that finish line, he became the first person with Down Syndrome to complete an Ironman. He broke a barrier that no one really thought was possible, and he showed the world what someone with Down Syndrome could accomplish if given the chance and the encouragement. He’d been training for right around 2 years to make this a reality and he finished with a time of 16 hours, 46 minutes, and 9 seconds. That’s right, he raced for nearly 17 straight hours. Now for those of you that don’t know, an Ironman is a race that starts with a 2.4 mile swim, then a 112 mile bike ride, and finishes by running a full 26.2 mile marathon. It’s a grueling event and one of the greatest physical challenges you can endure. And Chris did it! So today we’re joined by Chris and his dad Nik to talk about their incredible journey getting to this point! How Are We Doing? Tweet us! @LAFitness using the hashtag #LivingHealthyPodcast Email us at blog@fitnessintl.com. Post a photo on our Instagram and using the hashtag #LivingHealthyPodcast This podcast should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor. Recommended Podcast Episodes 3 Year Anniversary – Living Healthy Podcast Update3 Year Anniversary – Living Healthy Podcast UpdateToday is the 3rd Anniversary of the Living Healthy Podcast, presented by LA Fitness. Hi everyone! I just wanted to give you a quick update on what is going on with the show. We are trying to plan out 3 LIVE podcast episodes covering Exercise, Nutrition, and Sleep... Andrew Gabell | May 21, 2021 The Down Syndrome Ironman – Chris Nikic – Living Healthy Podcast Ep. 48The Down Syndrome Ironman – Chris Nikic – Living Healthy Podcast Ep. 48The Down Syndrome Ironman Chris Nikic attempts to be the first to complete an Ironman event with Down Syndrome. Welcome back to the Living Healthy Podcast! Today we’re going to be talking to an inspirational young man named Chris Nikic - The Down Syndrome... Andrew Gabell | Feb 8, 2021 5 Steps to Jump Start Your Diet – Living Healthy Podcast Ep. 475 Steps to Jump Start Your Diet – Living Healthy Podcast Ep. 47Welcome to 5 Steps to Jump Start Your Diet, the 47th episode of the Living Healthy Podcast. Today we discuss 5 Steps to Jump Start Your Diet with Registered Dietician, Debbie James. Debbie has broken them down into the anacronym H.A.B.I.T so they are easy to... Andrew Gabell | Jan 25, 2021 Relationship to Food – Living Healthy Podcast Ep. 46Relationship to Food – Living Healthy Podcast Ep. 46Welcome to today's episode about "Your Relationship to Food." It's the 46th episode of the Living Healthy Podcast. On today's episode, we are discussing how you can honestly assess your relationship to food and how you can create a positive relationship to food... Andrew Gabell | Jan 11, 2021 Trimming Fat and Keeping Muscle – Podcast Ep. 45Trimming Fat and Keeping Muscle – Podcast Ep. 45We're "Trimming the Fat and Keeping the Muscle" on today's episode of the Living Healthy Podcast! On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, just in time for Thanksgiving, we learn about trimming or "cutting" the fat after you finish the bulking phase. This is... Andrew Gabell | Nov 23, 2020 Myth Busters: Gym Edition – Ep. 44Myth Busters: Gym Edition – Ep. 44Today's episode is all about Busting Gym Myths! Does spot training really work? Is Cardio the best way to burn fat? We talk to Master Trainer Jordan Jones to find out the answers, so buckle up because you might just get your bubble popped. Sorry about that! Andrew Gabell | Nov 9, 2020 Is Sugar Bad For You? – Podcast Ep. 43Is Sugar Bad For You? – Podcast Ep. 43On this week's episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we ask Registered Dietician Debbie James the question "Is sugar bad for you?" Andrew Gabell | Oct 26, 2020 Cancer Screening and Prevention – Podcast Ep. 42Cancer Screening and Prevention – Podcast Ep. 42WE’RE BACK!!! On today's episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we're talking about Cancer Screening and Prevention with Dr. Rick Van Etten! Andrew Gabell | Sep 21, 2020 Food Safety and Sanitation – Podcast Ep. 41Food Safety and Sanitation – Podcast Ep. 41Debbie James, RDN, brings us her expert opinion on food safety and sanitation, along with information on how you can eat well if you have to shelter in place. Andrew Gabell | Mar 23, 2020 The Basics of Bulking – Podcast Ep. 40The Basics of Bulking – Podcast Ep. 40On today’s episode, you’ll hear from one of our own Master Trainers about what you should be eating and how you should be exercising during your bulking phase. Andrew Gabell | Mar 9, 2020 Corporate Fitness Challenge – Podcast Ep. 39Corporate Fitness Challenge – Podcast Ep. 39We don’t just talk about living an active lifestyle, we do our best to live it! Today we’re giving you a peek into corporate life with LA Fitness. Andrew Gabell | Feb 24, 2020 Elimination Diets – Podcast Ep. 38Elimination Diets – Podcast Ep. 38The Elimination Diet is not what it sounds like! We’re sitting down with Debbie James, RDN, to bring you what you need to know about this interesting diet! Andrew Gabell | Feb 10, 2020 Understanding Yoga and Meditation – Podcast Ep. 37Understanding Yoga and Meditation – Podcast Ep. 37On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we are joined by LA Fitness Yoga Instructor, John Lyman, to discuss what it’s like to practice Yoga. Andrew Gabell | Jan 27, 2020 Beverages and Your Body – Podcast Ep. 36Beverages and Your Body – Podcast Ep. 36On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we discuss popular beverages and their impact on your health with our Registered Dietitian, Debbie James. Andrew Gabell | Jan 13, 2020 Train Like a Triathlete – Podcast Ep. 35Train Like a Triathlete – Podcast Ep. 35On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we sit down with Triathlon Champion, Dave Ruby, to learn what it takes to compete among the best. Andrew Gabell | Nov 18, 2019 How to Like Running – Podcast Ep. 34How to Like Running – Podcast Ep. 34On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we speak with running expert, Greg McMillan, to learn what it takes to start running and enjoy the journey. Andrew Gabell | Nov 4, 2019 The Importance of Sleep – Podcast Ep. 33The Importance of Sleep – Podcast Ep. 33On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we speak with Dr. Bob Davari to discuss the importance of sleep and what happens when you don’t get enough. Andrew Gabell | Oct 21, 2019 Fruits and Veggies – Part 2 – Podcast Ep. 32Fruits and Veggies – Part 2 – Podcast Ep. 32On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we continue our discussion with Debbie James, RDN, to dish out the details on super-fruits and veggies and how to make them taste better! Andrew Gabell | Oct 7, 2019 Fruits and Veggies – Part 1 – Podcast Ep. 31Fruits and Veggies – Part 1 – Podcast Ep. 31On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, Debbie James, RDN, answers some questions about fruits and veggies. Can they lose nutrients if they’re frozen? Is there a difference between organic and non-organic? Listen to find out! Andrew Gabell | Sep 23, 2019 What You’ve Been Wanting to Know About Fad Diets (Paleo, Keto, and More) – Podcast Ep. 30What You’ve Been Wanting to Know About Fad Diets (Paleo, Keto, and More) – Podcast Ep. 30On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, Debbie James, RDN, answers some frequently asked questions about some of the most popular fad diets: Paleo, Whole 30, Keto, Anti-Inflammatory, and Intermittent Fasting. What are the Pros and Cons? How do they compare? Andrew Gabell | Sep 9, 2019 Why Metabolism Declines With Age (And How to Reverse It!) – Podcast Ep. 29Why Metabolism Declines With Age (And How to Reverse It!) – Podcast Ep. 29On this episode of the LHP, Debbie James, RDN, talks metabolism. Why does metabolism decrease as we age and how can we reverse this? Andrew Gabell | Jul 29, 2019 Injuries: Back, Knee, Shoulder – Podcast Ep. 28Injuries: Back, Knee, Shoulder – Podcast Ep. 28On this episode of the LHP, LA Fitness Master Trainer, Geoff Fox, joins the show to discuss how to prevent and handle back, knee and shoulder injuries. Andrew Gabell | Jul 15, 2019 The Plant-Based Diet: What You Need to Know – Podcast Ep. 27The Plant-Based Diet: What You Need to Know – Podcast Ep. 27On this episode of the LHP, we're discussing what a plant-based diet is, how it differs from a vegetarian diet, and whether or not you should try it. Andrew Gabell | Jul 1, 2019 Fitness vs. Nutrition Trivia Showdown – Podcast Ep. 26Fitness vs. Nutrition Trivia Showdown – Podcast Ep. 26On this episode of the LHP, it's a fitness vs. nutrition showdown with guest experts Debbie James, RDN and LA Fitness Master Trainer, Geoff Fox. Andrew Gabell | Jun 17, 2019 How to Gain Healthy Weight – Podcast Ep. 25How to Gain Healthy Weight – Podcast Ep. 25On this episode of the LHP we speak with LAF PTD, Tristen Alleman, and LAF RDN, Debbie James, as they share their expert advice on how to gain weight the healthy way. Andrew Gabell | Jun 3, 2019 NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Podcast Ep. 24NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Podcast Ep. 24For the second year LA Fitness is working with NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, to help bring awareness to mental health throughtout May. Andrew Gabell | May 20, 2019 Mental Health Month – Podcast Ep. 23Mental Health Month – Podcast Ep. 23May is Mental Health Month and we've partnered for the second year with Kaiser Permanente to help bring awareness to the importance of mental health. Andrew Gabell | May 6, 2019 All About That Cardio – Podcast Ep. 22All About That Cardio – Podcast Ep. 22On this episode of the LHP, we bring back to the show LAF, PTD, Tristen Alleman, and, listener favorite Dietitian Debbie! And we talk all about cardio! Andrew Gabell | Apr 22, 2019 How to Read A Nutrition Label – Podcast Ep. 21How to Read A Nutrition Label – Podcast Ep. 21On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we have a listener favorite on the show, Dietitian Debbie, who helps us better understand nutrition labels. Andrew Gabell | Apr 8, 2019 Fast Food and Your Body – Podcast Ep. 20Fast Food and Your Body – Podcast Ep. 20On this episode of the LHP, we bring back a favorite to the show, LAF RDN, Debbie James! We talk all about one of everyone's guilty pleasures, fast food. Andrew Gabell | Mar 25, 2019 Give Me Strength Training – Podcast Ep. 19 Give Me Strength Training – Podcast Ep. 19On this episode of the LHP, we speak with LAF, Personal Training Director, Mark Joseph de Guzman, who educates us on the importance of strength training. Andrew Gabell | Mar 11, 2019 The Heart: Love, Fitness and Heartbreak – Podcast Ep. 18The Heart: Love, Fitness and Heartbreak – Podcast Ep. 18On this episode of the LHP it's all about the heart. Heartbreaks, heart health, food for the heart, and how fitness plays a role on the heart. Andrew Gabell | Feb 25, 2019 Life with ALS – Podcast Ep. 17Life with ALS – Podcast Ep. 17Lynne Nieto, wife of Augie Nieto, and co-founder of Augie's Quest, joins us in studio to discuss what ALS is and how you can help in finding a cure. Andrew Gabell | Feb 11, 2019 The Basics of Health, Fitness, and Nutrition – Podcast Ep. 16The Basics of Health, Fitness, and Nutrition – Podcast Ep. 16On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast we cover the basics of health, fitness, and nutrition with three outstanding guest experts! Andrew Gabell | Jan 28, 2019 Goals vs. Resolutions – Podcast Ep. 15Goals vs. Resolutions – Podcast Ep. 15On this episode of the LHP, we speak with LAF PTD, Tristen Alleman, who shares what he's seen with members successfully accomplishing their resolutions. Andrew Gabell | Jan 14, 2019 Fitness and Food: How to Navigate the Holiday Season – Podcast Ep. 14Fitness and Food: How to Navigate the Holiday Season – Podcast Ep. 14On this episode of the LHP, we speak with Debbie James, RDN, and LAF Master Trainer, Heather Edson, on ways to stay healthy and fit this holiday season! Andrew Gabell | Nov 19, 2018 HIIT Play: High Intensity Interval Training – Podcast Ep. 13HIIT Play: High Intensity Interval Training – Podcast Ep. 13On this episode of Living Healthy, LAF Master Trainer, Geoff Fox shares his knowledge on high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Warning: Puns ahead. Andrew Gabell | Nov 5, 2018 How to Train Like an Elite Athlete – Podcast Ep. 12How to Train Like an Elite Athlete – Podcast Ep. 12Elite athlete, Matt Harrison, shares how he went from living comfortably to transforming into an elite athlete with just a few changes to his lifestyle. Andrew Gabell | Oct 22, 2018 It’s Time We Talk About Mental Health – Podcast Ep. 11It’s Time We Talk About Mental Health – Podcast Ep. 11On this episode, we speak with Dr. Neel Doshi, DO, a psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente Orange County, about the importance of mental health. Andrew Gabell | Oct 8, 2018 How to Never Fail at a Diet Again – Podcast Ep. 10How to Never Fail at a Diet Again – Podcast Ep. 10On this episode of the LHP we talk with nutriton expert, Debbie James, RDN, and get her advice on how to never fail at a diet again. Andrew Gabell | Sep 24, 2018 What to Do When You Feel Like Quitting – Podcast Ep. 9What to Do When You Feel Like Quitting – Podcast Ep. 9On this episode of the LHP, we speak with Master Trainer Geoff Fox and get his advice on persevering even when you feel like quitting. Andrew Gabell | Sep 10, 2018 How to Meal Prep the Right Way – Podcast Ep. 8How to Meal Prep the Right Way – Podcast Ep. 8On this episode of Living Healthy, we're talking meal prep. Everything from how-to, to common mistakes, and how it can to keep it budget-friendly. Andrew Gabell | Aug 27, 2018 Aqua Fit: Land Lovers Welcome – Podcast Ep. 7Aqua Fit: Land Lovers Welcome – Podcast Ep. 7Ever wondered what it might be like to dive inside an Aqua Fit class? Join us as we get an insiders look into the world of water aerobics. Andrew Gabell | Aug 13, 2018 Bad Mood Foods – Podcast Ep. 6Bad Mood Foods – Podcast Ep. 6Can certain foods truly cause us to feel angry, sad or tired? The answer may shock you! Learn more about these bad mood foods on the #LivingHealthyPodcast. Andrew Gabell | Jul 30, 2018 The Silent Killer – Podcast Ep. 5The Silent Killer – Podcast Ep. 5High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. We speak with experts in the field about this deadly silent killer. Andrew Gabell | Jul 16, 2018 Zumba®: A Fitness Fan’s Happy Hour – Podcast Ep. 4Zumba®: A Fitness Fan’s Happy Hour – Podcast Ep. 4On this episode of the LHP, we speak with Zumba® instructor, Ana. Find out why Zumba® just might be your new favorite Group Fitness class! Andrew Gabell | Jul 2, 2018 From Tragedy to Triumph – Podcast Ep. 3From Tragedy to Triumph – Podcast Ep. 3On this episode of LHP, we speak with Logan Seelye, LAF member, motivational speaker, and author, who shares how to move on when life knocks you down. Andrew Gabell | Jun 18, 2018 Cycling: Is it Right for You? – Podcast Ep. 2Cycling: Is it Right for You? – Podcast Ep. 2On this episode of the LHP, Andrew and I compete in our first ever LAF Group Fitness Cycle class. We give you an insiders view so you know what to expect! Andrew Gabell | Jun 4, 2018 The Top 5 Nutrition Myths – Podcast Ep. 1The Top 5 Nutrition Myths – Podcast Ep. 1Welcome to the launch o…
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