The answer is actually not as straight forward as we might like it to be. It depends on a few factors. How long we have been working out, what kind of exercise we do, and even how old we are all are important factors regarding how quickly we lose our “fitness” level. [Read more…]
Basically, what Alan revealed is that it is often what we eat that creates the bulk, not the weights we are lifting. He explained that the idea that “toned” physiques come from lifting lighter weights more times, just isn’t supported by science. “Producing bulky muscles requires not just heavy weights, but heavy calorie consumption, typically above the daily calories recommended for most adults. [Read more…]
We’ve all been there…at a gym, surrounded by exercise, and no motivation…
My gym is the local Y (YMCA), which here in Charlotte, North Carolina, is extensive and offers incredible amenities. Although I don’t get to the Y much anymore, last week I found myself there while #6 (Grace) was at rowing practice (her team practices at the Y when they can’t get on the lake).
Surrounded by rooms of equipment, machines, free weights, and even climbing walls, I was at a loss of what to do. Has that ever happened to you? I was standing there with more exercise opportunities than I could ask for, any workout at my fingertips, and nothing enticed me.
Lacking in motivation to create my own workout and typically ill-timed for a group exercise class, I walked the gym. I guess I figured some exercise machine would reach out and grab me. None did and so I spent at least 10 minutes wandering around, looking pretty pathetic actually.
After passing an exercise bike, a rowing machine, and a treadmill at least five times, it dawned on me that I now only had 45 minutes left before Grace would be done with her practice. Finally I decided to get on all three for 15 minutes each. At least I wouldn’t be bored. [Read more…]
The following are nine reasons I am a happy coffee drinker: [Read more…]
“Seat work” at a barre class…don’t let the fact that it looks easy fool you…
Now that I have your attention, I’ll use the term glutes (I don’t even let my kids say butt). Glutes (of which the gluteus maximus is the largest) are a key component of the core. Yes, they are associated with the core. Let’s just say they support the core.
According to Joe Tedesco at Architech Sports, “Glutes … are part of the core. Typically, we tend not to think of them that way because they appear to be relatively far away from the stomach. It helps to think of the core as a base of stability, rather than to associate it only with the stomach area. The core begins at the top of the ribs and includes the whole area to about mid thigh. Therefore, whatever helps to create stability in those areas can be thought of as part of the core.” [Read more…]
The following are three ways to lose a few pounds in a few weeks:
The Tabata method paper was published in 1996 in the journal “Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise.” entitled, “Effects of Moderate-Intensity Endurance and High-Intensity Intermittent Training on Anaerobic Capacity and VO2max.” These doctors discovered that interval training produces much better results than aerobic training. This included building as much muscular endurance as 45 minutes of normal cardio training. [Read more…]
That short conversation got me thinking. What does exercise do for me? It’s a whole lot more than physical. Yes, it keeps me fit, but after all my years of pounding the pavement, cranking out pushups, or tweeking my perfect strength routine, I have come to believe that the most substantial benefit of fitness is what it does for my peace of mind. [Read more…]
