Review: Take the Stress out of Tipping (iPhone)

Take the stress out of tipping

Tipping Tips - iPhone

This may seem like an unusual application to review on this site.   But as a big gadget and technology fan I am keen to share useful applications that will save you time and hassle.  

I am constantly looking at ways to reduce stress using my iPhone and some smart-phone apps can directly or indirectly assist with this goal. 

Tipping Tips is an iPhone app that provides tipping advice.  There are many apps out there that will calculate tips for meals out, or split the bill between several people, but this does far more.

For anyone who travels to another country you will have encountered the struggle with how much to tip and when, for example a taxi from the airport, porter or other services.  Do I pay the exact fare, round up or pay a fixed percentage?  What works in one country doesn't apply everywhere so the answer isn't always straightforward.  For example did you know it's insulting to tip in Japan (bar a few minor exceptions)?

Pricing: UK - 0.59p, US - $0.99

Tipping Tips - iTunes App Store

Review: Runkeeper PRO App (iPhone)

RunKeeper Pro

If you enjoy walking,  running or other activities that can be tracked via GPS - RunKeeper Pro should be on your iphone (or Android device).  

It is feature packed, tracking all the vital stats in relation to pace/speed and distance.  It will record both automated and manual activities of your choice and provide prompts on your progress throughout.

For workouts you can choose between programming your own or use one of those supplied.

One of the most useful features is being able to listen to music on a run (for those who wish to do so), and you can take phone calls and when finished the app will continue where you left off.

For those looking to socialise their progress - in-built Twitter and Facebook integration is included so you can post your workout results.

It is now iPhone 4 compatible and there is a feature reduced free version.  It currently costs 5.99 GBP and 9.99 USD.  Not the cheapest of iPhone applications however it replaces dedicated GPS devices costing hundreds. 

 

RunKeeper Pro - iTunes App Store (UK)

RunKeeper Pro - iTunes App Store (US)

Review: The Paleo Solution (Book)

Review: The Paleo Solution - Robb Wolf

 

This book could be entitled "The Paleo Lifestyle".  Which is how I view my take on Paleo.  It is more than just a diet.  So if you were expecting just another low carb diet/recipe book, this isn't it. If you want a list of rules with rigid guidelines that you can never deviate from, this isn't for you either. 

So where does it fit in and what can you expect? 

Do you have any questions about how a modern framework based on a Paleolithic lifestyle will help you lose weight, slow the ageing process and improve performance? Then this is it. 

If you suffer or are likely to suffer from auto-immune diseases such as Ulcerative Colitis, Crohns, Rheumatoid arthritis, etc - this will provide answers on managing these conditions.

If you're wondering what types of exercises/activities will help you achieve the above goals, and why less is sometimes more, then this will provide answers. 

Concerned about avoiding cancer, diabetes, heart disease and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, etc? This is for you. 

Many of us we need a lifestyle review. Not only in terms of restful sleep and reducing stress levels, but with making the right 'real food' choices and performing activities that are aligned to these goals. Sounds easy, but sometimes we need guidance and the author has lots of experience in this field. Some of us want scientific evidence and there is copious amounts of this in the book. Some of us want to try the Paleo Solution based upon the experience of others and you can find these in the many testimonials available related to Robb's work. 

This book discusses some of the reasoning behind the conflicting advice to be found in the world of nutrition. With some of the author's advice flying in the face of conventional wisdom. Robb Wolf presents this to us with supported pre-historic evidence, his world class expertise with strength & conditioning coaching and the latest studies in scientific research.

I've had the pleasure to spend a day with Robb and to pick his brains.  His book is an excellent additional reference.

A worthy and highly recommended read.

Review: The Paleolithic Solution Seminar (Robb Wolf)

I recently attended a one day seminar by Robb Wolf on the Paleolithic Solution held at Crossfit South Brooklyn.

Robb Wolf, is a former research biochemist (studying under Dr Cordain author of the Paleo Diet) and a world class strength and conditioning coach.  Thus making him a leading contributor on discussing how to live a 'modern' Paleolithic lifestyle from a nutrition, exercise, performance and lifestyle perspective.  

I have read many articles and books, and currently 'practice' a contemporary Paleo Diet.  But I still had a few concerns.  I had my notepad and pencil ready with many questions prepared.  I was seriously looking forward to this!

A significant amount of material was covered in a single day, and the benefits discussed in terms of improving performance, body composition and health.  

Useful for:

• the lay person who wants to know why a Paleo lifestyle will benefit them (and what they need to do to get there);
   
• For trainers/coaches who want to make informed and goal-based paleo-centric decisions for their clients;
   
• Science geeks who want to know more about Endocrinology, digestion and nutrition's relationship to modern scourges such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, Parkinsons, Alzheimer's, etc.

When taking a superficial look at the Paleo Diet it is easy to fall into the trap that 'a one-size fits all' can work for all individuals.  However, that is not a criticism of the methodology.  There are certain principles that should be applied to all that will provide a solid foundation (for you or your clients) when aligned to goals and objectives.

The mark of a good teacher:

the ability to relay complex topics with simplicity (without diluting the message);

presenting practical and theoretical applications of the concepts;

discussing counter arguments and tackling difficult questions;

presenting with humour, passion and relevance.

Not patronising or condescending;

The above Robb delivered with ease.    

Sometimes I attend seminars and come away with more questions than answers.  Not this time.  I had many questions answered (and I had quite a few).  I was given further reference material to peruse and now feel much more confident in asserting my position when challenged.  I also met many interesting people.

If you have the opportunity to attend one of his seminar's, I would highly recommend it.  If you don't have the opportunity, just buy his book as soon as it's available! The Paleo Solution