Showing posts with label Exercise. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Exercise. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Could This MMA Workout Change the Way You Workout?



Certainly, there unfolds a period when your exact workout center regime will receive good old. Anyone hit in which skill level that is certainly really familiar using their company durations in the places you finished experiencing can be caused by training regimens that will had become disinterested during exercising generally speaking during this process. The actual essential thing that will preserving and then creating with any toughness and even level of fitness is almost always to replace your exercise sessions and also to bodily or emotionally working out rough for brief breaks of your. Possess you been told about Rushfit with Georges Saint Pierre? This particular workout was initially among the choices I uncovered as soon as exploring so that you can grow my best exercise session strategies. Thought pertaining to We've qualified this plan of action to the amount of Four week period I figured it is of great benefit motor scooter won't quite simply invented little review in my small meets using it up to now.

To begin with, we could purchase the Rushfit software when it reaches this variety of cheap value in comparison with additional very similar choices so that it was initially essentially the often most successful decision to at least test it. Significantly prefer these types of forms of activity courses Rushfit will come set up making use of the exercise routine you can expect to carry out, guidance ideas, and also a diet guide. They seem to be fundamentals when starting up any specific cutting edge organize and are usually usual in these days.

When I originated my primary Rushfit exercise session I'd been impressed only exactly how simple it was subsequently to perform the different work outs during basements easily in the slightest degree. The house is usually a typical capacity so i enjoyed considerable living space to maneuver around with the online video media. Forty-five or so minutes following your training Blu-ray set about I had been completely wrecked, however in a smart way. The actual video stopped working my own exercise routine inside five fine periods with the forty-five fine extend and noticed similar to this prepared any physical exercise appear to be it all required half of energy. That's the reason, I got blister, it also believed terrific!

Just after our chief exercise I additionally experienced a cost-free marketing tool review worksheet that could be shipped to you can easily record my best is a result of this exercising one specific. At this point that I'm with evening Thirty one it is great to see exactly how my personal final results need superior over the comparatively minimal time. The particular workout plans while in the exercising seem to be often varying that could be noticeable to my opinion presently currently ahead of the best way critical it is to alter workout routines which means that your muscular tissue are rarely getting accustomed to the identical type of matter.

For anyone wondering about whether they should call have originated with Rushfit or else, ultimately enable going without shoes reaches its destination using a money back refund? Realistically, if you worry somebody acquiring the consequences offered for sale they can discount an individual's sum total basically no questions requested. In the event that this won't demonstrate trust in the technique I will not determine what should. With luck, the critique supports anyone to more than supply Rushfit just by Georges Saint Pierre a trial while it possesses labored well suited for me and my friends then there's pointless it's hard to gain comparable as well as greater results plus treasure analyzing my best Rushfit review.




Rushfit
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10 Acne Free Skin Tips For Everyday Life

Acne is one of those pesky little problems that shows up especially when you dont want it to. Most people spend a lot of time and money to keep pimples from popping up but it doesnt always stop them. Because acne has several causes and not everyone experiences the same type of acne, it makes it difficult to completely eliminate acne from occurring.

The acne industry is continually growing due to its frequent occurrence. Acne products and treatments are widely available and used. However, what if there was another way to keep your skin clear of acne. Diet, lifestyle, habit, and skin care all contribute to acne free skin. Follow these tips to reduce your acne outbursts and keep your skin looking young and beautiful.

1. Avoid touching your face. Not just with your hands but also with anything that potentially has microorganisms on it such as hair, towels, pillows, or tissues. All of these can carry oil, dirt or bacteria onto the face, which can cause acne. Although its difficult, limit the contact between your face and hands. If you must touch your face remember to wash your hands first. Additionally, use clean towels, pillowcases and tissues when coming into contact with your face.

2. Dont pop your pimples. When you pop your pimples the bacterium within the clogged pores comes out, which can further spread the infection and inflammation. So instead of having one pimple you can end up with 20. Additionally you increase inflammation, and redness of the area surrounding the pimple due to the unnecessary pressure. Not to mention that if your hands are not clean when you pop your pimples, you can transfer more dirt, oil and bacteria into your pores making your acne worse.

3. Eat a healthy, balance diet. This includes eating fresh fruits and vegetables that are loaded with vitamins, minerals and water. Fruits and vegetables are easily digested and keep the flow of elimination in the body up to par. Caffeine, sugar and refined carbohydrates increase the oil produced within the sebaceous glands making acne more likely to occur. Eating a balanced diet keeps your skin healthy and nourished from the inside out. Healthy foods improve the look of your skin.

4. Drink water. The body needs water to properly hydrate the body, maintain blood pressure and elimination. Dehydrated skin, looks dry, can crack and can retain bacteria and toxins that is normally expelled through perspiration. Additionally water helps to maintain skins elasticity, which promotes cellular growth and repair. A proper amount of water to drink is 6-8 glasses daily. This will keep your skin glowing and naturally acne free.

5. Use oil free products. This includes cosmetics, cleansers, face washes, and hair products. The oil in these products can contribute to clogged pores and acne outbursts. Oil and cream based products can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Additionally, avoid using cosmetic products over pimples. Although its natural to use cosmetic products to cover up acne breakouts, it can actually make acne worse. The chemicals in make up can exacerbate acne and cause more inflammation on the skin.

6. Always remove make up at the end of the day before you go to bed. Leaving make up on you face allows pores to become clogged and acne bacteria to flourish. Residue from make up can accumulate on pillowcase and cause dirt and oil build up in your pores. Always use a fresh pillowcase to avoid sleeping on dirt and oils from your hair and face.

7. Shampoo your hair regularly. Dirty hair or hair with product in it can transfer oil, dirt and bacteria to you face upon contact. By keeping your hair clean you can avoid the transfer of these pore-clogging materials. If you do use product in your hair use a headband, or pull it back off your face. The chemicals in hair products although ok for your hair and scalp may cause irritation when it comes into contact with your face. Always shower after exercise as well. Sweat can cause product, oil and dirt to move from your hair to your face, which can get trapped in your pores causing acne to occur.

8. Exercise on a regular basis. Exercise increases circulation of the blood, nutrients and oxygen to the skin, which allows for proper expulsion of toxins and chemicals through perspiration. Exercise also reduces stress, which reduces the hormone imbalance within the body, which can cause acne.

9. Try to 6-8 hours of sleep a night. Our brain and body need time to reboot and recharge through sleeping. When we sleep our body cleanses the system of toxins from the previous day. In addition, sleep gives our body the rest it needs to be able to maintain all the systems of the body especially the immune system that protects our skin. Without adequate energy our body is unable to work properly and our systems dont work efficiently. Sleep restores our bodys energy levels so we can adequately fight off infection, inflammation and bacteria.

10. Stop smoking. There is no doubt that smoking is bad for you health. However, in addition to all the terrible things that it does to your bodies it also harms our skin and can actually make acne worse. If quitting is something you struggle with try to cut down on the amount you smoke until you are able to give it up completely.

Graduated with a BA in exercise science and have worked in the medical field since. My focus is alternative medicine however all aspects of health interest me. Check out my health website! http://www.universalhealthinfo.com/Acne_Free_Skin_Tips.html

Monday, July 29, 2013

4 Fitness Tips That Smart and Successful Women Swear By



Going to work, cleaning the house, paying the bills and running to the next appointment are the everyday challenges of many women.

But what would happen if your body failed you, reducing your ability to meet those everyday challenges. What if you couldn't continue being a superwoman?

Look around and you'll see many walking wounded women struggling to meet the need of everyday life.

They gain weight, are moody, fatigued, stressed, have low self-esteem and confidence. Their health and fitness are their greatest liability to their quality of life. If you want to have it all, you health and well-being are crucial. Whether you are starting out on a life long journey of well-being or you want to maintain your healthy nutrition and exercise program for a balanced lifestyle try these tips, pick the ones that work for you. We are all different so one size does not fit all.

1. Set Achievable Goals

Think of your goals and ask yourself what you want to achieve through exercise. Is it that glow of good health, more energy or even more strength? Purpose is the first step to motivation.

Include a short-term goal, a goal you know you can meet. Remember, often less is more, particularly if you have a long term goal. Achieve that goal first, feel good about it, and then set the next goal.

Also, have some long term goals, whether it be to participate in a fun run, or to drop two or three kilos and improve your muscle tone. It is important you have a clear direction if you want to stay on track.

2. Learn Something New

Adding spice to your life keep you interested and stop you from becoming bored. The same is true with exercise. The same old exercise routine week in and week out can become boring and is a major reason why people stop exercising.

Try a new activity or create variety to help overcome exercise boredom. Variety and something new also stresses different working muscles improving your overall fitness.

If you always go for a run, try a different way or tackle a steeper hill or perhaps give your muscles a rest with a good long walk!

Another idea is to start a new discipline such as karate or ballroom dancing. My local gym runs belly dancing classes twice a week and everyone has fun.

3. Monitor You Progress

Keep a training diary of your exercise and eating habits. This will not only show a record of your success, but will also serve as a reminder of all efforts so far.

4. Use and Wear Equipment That Is Comfortable and Easy To Use

Exercise is not about how you look, but more about how you feel. Dress in loose-fitting and comfortable clothes that are made for working out.

Wear comfortable shoes that breathe and offer support. Invest in a good pair of trainers. There is nothing worse than using equipment that is poorly look after or difficult and uncomfortable to use. It really puts you off and can destroy your motivation. If choosing to use a treadmill consider one that offers great features such as the Sole F80 Treadmill, to enhance your desire to use the equipmentand aid with motivation.




If perhaps you would prefer to be able to find out more information on the sole f80 as well as continue to keep up-to-date on the latest engineering with regard to upcoming designs, you should check out my personal sole f80 treadmill review website.

Sunday, July 28, 2013

How To Eliminate Belly Fat



How to get six-pack in a month

In today's world where we focus a lot on our appearance the quest for a good looking and a healthy body is not just for professionals. Men and women young and old struggle with their diet and work-outs to get the results they want.

Often the work-outs planned by us "amateurs" are less than optimal and we usually spend a lot of time and effort in vain. This is because we simply do not know what will give us the maximum effect of our training.

A well-defined six-pack is something you and I want and it doesn't matter if you're young or bit older, we all want it. First of all - doing abdominal exercises is key of course but if you have too much fat around the belly area they won't show anyway. Sure your stomach will be flatter than before if you work hard but I guess you have some abs underneath the subcutaneous fat and it is therefore far more important getting your fat levels down a notch. If you're below level 25 BMI this should be within your reach.

If you're over 25 in BMI you need to work a bit harder and seriously rethink what you're putting into your body when it comes to food and beverages. I have put together a simple to follow list that will get you a six-pack in one month - but only if you're committed to it!

First Step

Organize your diet. Your diet is one of the key components to get your six-pack. Avoid anything fried, canned food, fast food and all the diet with high doses, saturated with. Is high in fiber, avoid fat and try to focus your diet around the narrow meat, low fat dairy products, vegetables, seeds and nuts. If you have a higher BMI starting off with a low-carb diet will get you going faster

Second Step

Avoid liquid calories. If you want a six pack in a month for you better skip the beer, soda and other sweetened drinks. Instead, you should drink plenty of water to help your combustion.

Third Step

Work out your abs. If you want to get the definition in your abs you have to train, and train hard. Instead of 1000 sit-ups, run 6-12 petitioner in multiple sets (3-6), you should therefore hold a dumbbell, weight or medicine ball to load your abs harder. Other good exercises include superman pushups and brutal bench.

Fourth Step

Fat burning training. Fat-burning workout is intense or long-range basis. Good training methods include running, cycling, swimming or rowing. I really recommend you to do shorter work-outs. For me a 30 minute well set-up interval running work-out is far more efficient than a 1.5 hour slow jog. It is better use of my time and my body responds better in terms of fat loss.

Fifth Step

Compose a schema with the following activities: Monday, Wednesday and Saturday you'll go running, and do abdominal training. Simple as that, three times a week go out for an interval running work-out and top that with some abs workouts.

Step 6

Sleep - When the going gets tough, the sleep is very important, so make sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night for the body to recover and build muscle. You'll probably notice that your sleep will improve. I'm always sleeping like a baby after working-out.

As a final note - how long does it take to make a diet and workout schedule, build muscles and get that six-pack depends on your commitment. It is absolutely possible to do this in one month following the steps above..




John Max Miller is the owner of the fat loss blog http://www.losingabsfat.com and is devoted to sharing his own experience on how to live a healthier life with better diet and less excess fat. Please visit the blog to read more articles and share your thoughts!

Saturday, July 27, 2013

Ab Workout for Men - Basic Best Workout Tips



Every man dreams of having rock solid abs. This is no secret that a well-toned body is judged primarily on the basis of the abs and if you don't have great abs, then it is considered tantamount to ineffective working out.

The problem with abs is that everyone has differing opinions regarding the best abs workout for men. Many people make the fatal mistake of just working out their abs muscles in the hope that this will result in six packs. Nothing can be further from the truth because your abs muscles are covered with fat and if you don't workout to shed off fat, they will forever stay concealed beneath the fat. You need to have a proper workout - one that will enable you to tone and shape your core while burning fat.

One effective solution for this is to incorporate compound exercises in your workout routine. Exercises like dead lifts can be an extremely effective ab workout. Men don't realize how important these compound exercises are for your abs. This is because these exercises are great fat burners, which help you to tone your body and get solid abs at the same time. Compound exercises pull your muscles and really make them work in order to build strength and lose fat.

The crunch is an exercise without which any abs workout for men is considered incomplete. There are different variations of the crunch, which will enable you to work different parts of your abs. You will be able to get excellent results if you focus on form and make sure that you execute the exercise properly. A common mistake that many people make is that they rush through the crunches thinking that they'll get a better workout with more quantity.

However, more is not always better when it comes to your body and especially ab workout. Men don't realize that they have to appreciate the limitations of your body. Furthermore, they should make sure that when they are doing abs exercises, all their focus should be on abs muscles.

Oftentimes, we make the mistake of rushing through the exercise because, let's face it, abs exercises are hard. We can feel the abs muscles burning when we are stretching them and this makes us coax ourselves into rushing through the exercise. When we do this, we sacrifice our form, which results in us using our back and shoulders to do the bulk of exercise for us. This, therefore, makes it extremely important to maintain proper form when exercising.




Adrianna Courtney is a professional writer and have interest in fitness and providing services on ab workout men and on abs workout for men

Friday, July 26, 2013

The Best Natural Cures for TMJ



The best cures for TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) disorder are natural ones. Natural cures for TMJ would include stretches and exercises that would do the same for the TMJ or jaw joint as normal physical therapy exercises would do for your knee or ankle.

A mainstay of physical therapy guidelines is to first reduce the swelling and try to restore normal range of motion with stretching exercises. Then use other exercises to repair and strengthen the muscles to prevent re-injury. There are dozens of simple exercises you can find online that you can try to see if they help.

If you have a lot of pain associated with your TMJ disorder you may want to try ice packs or heating pads. Use one or the other and if it doesn't work try the other. Just apply either one for about 10 minutes at a time to help relieve your pain.

To work on your stress levels you can try some Yoga breathing exercises or some other stress reducing activities. You could lessen the list of things you are trying to do each day and start listening to some soothing music regularly. When you do stress reducing therapy you need to try to clear your mind and learn to relax every muscle in your body.

You could change your diet to only include soft foods. If some foods you feel you must have are somewhat chewy you should cut it into tiny pieces before eating it. Also, don't eat foods that are hard or crunchy like nuts or raw vegetables.

One thing that will help you is to find a magnesium supplement and start taking that. Magnesium will help to reduce swelling and offer some natural pain relief for your jaw and head.

There are a few cures for TMJ you may want to stay away from. They would include surgery which is very painful and expensive not to mention highly invasive and unproven, drugs which would only give you temporary relief and side affects you don't need, and TMJ guards which are plastic or nylon tooth guards that you sleep with in your mouth.

The TMJ guards can actually give you a TMJ cure depending on the cause of your disorder and whatever TMJ symptoms you are suffering from. They have been known to work great if the doctor is experienced using them. You would need to make sure to get a thorough exam from a dentist that has experience with TMJ symptoms in order to figure out the root cause and an effective treatment plan.

Cures for TMJ need to be tailored to fit each patient depending on the root cause and the symptoms that are presenting. The most common root cause of TMJ is stress, tension, or anxiety which leads some people to grinding their teeth in their sleep or clenching their jaw unconsciously. If that is the case with you your treatment plan will need to address that as well as your TMJ symptoms because, if not, you will continue to do damage to your TMJ in your sleep or unconsciously.

Another thing you can do is network with other TMJ patients. If you find someone with similar symptom they may be able to put you on the right path to finding your own cures for TMJ.




Dan Lambeth is a TMJ cure expert. If you want more information on Cures for TMJ visit http://www.TMJ-Cure.org

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Benefits Of Abs Among Women



Apart from the fact that flat abs are an image booster, other benefits are so good that they cannot be ignored. Having perfect abs can provide many benefits to you. Some of these benefits are:

Reduced Back Pain

Flat abs help support the muscles as well as bones of your back. This is because when there is limited mass on the middle part of your body, your back will not need to bear any extra weight from your tummy.

Fewer Sports Injuries

If you love playing sports, your flat abs can help you fight well with possible sports injuries. It depends on how much you want to crank out in sit ups. Those who do quite frequently are less likely to get injuries.

Research indicates that if you do a lot of exercising for your abs such as pushups, two-mile runs, and sit ups, physical resistance will increase in your body. You will suffer less from injuries you get in sports.

A Healthy Life

Doing the best ab workout for women leads one to a healthy life. Although having flat abs does not mean that you will never have to visit a doctor, research reveals that those who have flat abs live longer than those who do not have fat abs. Flat abs reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure, kidney cancer, heart attack and heart disease.

Longer Life

When there is a comparison between people who do abs workout regularly with those who do not do it, it was found in a research that people with flat abs live longer. This is mostly because of the fact that belly fat is extremely dangerous for your health. Eating a healthy lifestyle and losing those extra pounds from your abdomen can work wonders for you in terms of longevity.

Increased Self-Esteem

Once you have been successful in involving yourself in the best ab workout for women, you will naturally feel that your self-esteem has reached its peak. Eventually, you will feel good. Increased self-esteem brings you self-confidence and you can face the world with self-belief. Besides this, you will be able to communicate well with others in your social circle.

Increased Energy Levels

According to various scientific studies, people who exercise to flatten their abs tend to increase their metabolic rates. As a result, their bodies tend to give them an increased level of energy. They enjoy life enthusiastically this way and value it more. After all, living an active life is what everybody wants.




Alicia Francesca is a professional writer and have big interest in abs workout and fitness and providing services for best ab workout for women and abs workout for women.

Prevention Is the Best Medicine for Longevity

As you might have heard that Jack LaLanne died at the old age of 97. He lived a long healthy life. He proved that with the right fuel (Nutrition), your body would function the way it is designed to do.

His healthy life was not by chance, or that he had the right genes, no, it was because he did the right things to his body. He exercised at least four times a week and he ate the right foods.

I dont know the reason for his death, but I would assume his heart muscle lived out its useful life. Everything breaks down eventually. Mr. LaLanne lived a healthy life that I am sure everyone would want. That is to eventually die of old age, not of old disease.

Mr. LaLanne lived in a time where fast foods did not exist. Where everyone in the family sat down at the dinner together to enjoy a nice home cooked meal. A meal made with fresh vegetables and food free from pesticides and chemicals. Not like the foods today that does contains pesticides and chemicals. Fast foods were not part of his diet.

For the last thirty years or so, we have gotten away from having a nice healthy home cooked meal and instead have gone with the fast food meals. We want everything in an instant in todays society. We take a pill to get rid of a headache even though it comes back practically everyday. We want to feel better in an instant and ignore why we are having the headaches.

The pills that we take for instant relief really good for our bodies, or is it doing more harm than good?

We must STOP and take a long hard look at what we are doing to our bodies. Why not look at what is causing the headaches and look for some solutions. Are the headaches because of taking in too much caffeine after drinking five cups of regular coffee a day?

Instead of taking medications that are not good for our body, let us find out the cause of the problem and eliminate the cause. If we dont know the cause, simply changing your diet and adding food supplementation will be a good start in fixing the problem naturally.

Prevention works almost 100% of the time. If we change our diet and add food supplementation, we will be taking a pro-active role in changing our health for the better. We will be a step closer to living a long healthy life-like Jack LaLanne had.

Gerry Gaboriau has been health conscious for many years. He wrote this article to illustrate that eating the right foods, exercising and Supplementation is needed to be in your best health.

Connect on Skype: gerry.gaboriau

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

The Best Exercises That Dont Require Equipment

If you want to burn fat and tone your body at home, Ive got some good news for you. You dont need to spend hundreds of dollars on a cardio machine, ab exercises, or home gym. In fact, you dont need any equipment to do a solid workout at home.

Yes, some fitness products are good and can help but there are plenty of exercises that dont require any equipment at all. In this article, Ill go over some of the best ones.

Exercise #1 - Push Ups

If you want to work on the pectoral muscles at home, what can be better than push-ups? This is an effective bodyweight exercise that targets the chest, shoulders, and triceps. There are a number of variations of this workout: One with elevated legs which targets the upper part of the chest muscles mostly. Another with elevated hands which targets the lower part of the chest, and the standard, even one.

Exercise #2 - Close grip push ups

While this is also a variation of the push-up, this one is a tricep exercise and not a chest one. To do the close grip pushup, all you need to do is to assume the position of a regular push-upm with one difference: your hands should be close to each other on the floor with the fingers touching each other.

Exercise #3 - Squats

What better way to tone and shape the lower body than with squats? This is a highly effective lower body exercise. To do the squat correctly, you need to make sure that your knees dont pass the line of your toes as you descend and that your back remains straight throughout the exercise.

Exercise #4 - Calf raises

To tone the calves, you dont need any equipment. Calf raises are a great exercise that you can do at home to strengthen and tone the calves. If you have a step or stairs to do this exercise one, use them. If not, then you can do calf raises quite effectively on the floor. Just stand on tiptoes, let your heels fall toward the floor without touching it and push yourself back to tiptoes.

Exercise #5 - Reverse crunches

To train your abs, you should perform some reverse crunches. Lie on the floor with both knees bent and your feet off the floor. Clench your abs and bring your knees toward your chest. Lower them back to the starting position and repeat.

As you can see, there are plenty of exercises that dont require equipment that you can do at home. Do these and see results.

For more excellent home workouts click here: Best Exercises Without Weights
To see how you can burn stomach fat quickly click here Exercises To Lose Belly Fat
John Davenport lost over 30 pounds in his twenties after being overweight most of his life. He now runs a weight loss forum and publishes a diet and fitness newsletter.

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Should We Stretch Before Exercise?



Stretching is a term that is used very loosely in the fitness industry. Everybody has been taught as young kids to stretch out. I remember in 1st grade physical education, my teacher leading us through stretches before a game of kickball. When to stretch or not to stretch at all is the question you can ask yourself. For the past 13 years as a personal trainer, my fitness manager has come to me year after year saying that the stretching trends and methods are changing. For the most part, I personally will always at least warm-up my body before exercising at my correct intensity, and that's usually because of instinct and because it will help me get to my target heart rate much faster! Let's take a look at what we've been told regarding stretching, and when it's best according to current fitness standards.

At one point in time, we've all been told to stretch out before doing any kind of aerobic exercise, mainly to avoid injury, help performance, and help with muscle soreness. According to current personal training standards, there is still no proof that is convincing to support that stretching prevents muscle soreness. Muscle soreness is simply a result of muscles being worked, and fatigue being reached during your exercise routine. Muscle soreness is not actually a bad thing, proper nutrition and rest will help you get through muscle soreness.

Next, I've always been taught that stretching would help my performance as an athlete. Current information that is being taught to trainers, is that stretching before exercise has no influential impact on a person's athletic performance. I now question what coaches all over the world are teaching their high school and college teams. I know for a fact that many football coaches are still teaching to run on your toes, because it makes you faster. Coaches don't understand or care that this is extremely painful for your knees, and could shorten your career.

As a personal trainer with all my clients, I teach that a warm-up is needed, but not stretching before any type of exercise. I will explain exactly what I mean by a warm-up. The best known warmup exercise that I use with all my clients, is the "hokey pokey". The "hokey pokey" is a warm up routine that asks for every part of your body to require some kind of energy. Warming up is simply getting every body part to accept consistent blood flow. Let's not make warming up difficult, when simple things like the "hokey pokey" work well.

I've always taught clients to stretch when their workout is complete! Stretching at the end of your workout, helps to properly "cool down" and bring your heart rate back to your normal resting rate, and will also help improve range of motion.

In conclusion, stretching is best after your workout is complete, there has been no conclusive evidence showing me anything different. Please do your own research, and give me your feedback.




Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to read an article of mine that I feel will help you to reach success. My name is Pierce Calloway, and I've been a certified personal trainer for the past 13 years. My main goal in the fitness industry is to give the best possible, most accurate fitness advice, and share the love of Jesus Christ with every one of my clients. I have an online fitness website that can be found at http://www.thebosuball.com. Thanks again for the time you've given me to share my heart.

Monday, July 22, 2013

Strength Training for Beginners - How to Start Your Child Off Right



It wasn't too long ago that strength training for adolescence was thought to be taboo, and it would put developing bodies at greater risk of bone damage and growth plate injury. These stunted growth myths have become old-school thinking. More than a decade of research has found that, if properly supervised and planned, strength training for kids is perfectly safe. The important thing is not to overdo it, as body building and competitive weight lifting should not be done.

So when would it be okay for kids to start weight training? According to Avery Faigenbaum, who is a professor of exercise science at the College of New Jersey, when they have an interest in it and can accept and follow directions. For some children that could be as early as seven or eight years old. The fact is, it does them good. More athletes and non-athletes are now into it to increase muscle strength and endurance, to improve motor skills and for overall fitness.

Many boys are more than eager to get started on a weight training program, but girls are now getting into it as well. There was a time girls were afraid they would develop big, bulky muscles. However they now understand that they do not produce enough testosterone to build large muscles. They still will feel and be stronger, and that and better health will build confidence.

Some of the guidelines for strength training programs for adolescence are:

1. First and foremost, all training should be done supervised by a qualified instructor who is trained to work with youths.

2. Strength training should not be done on consecutive days, and no more than three times per week. On other days the focus should be on flexibility and aerobics.

3. Each session should begin with a warm-up such as jumping rope, but never with stretching.

4. Part of the value this brings to the child is the education in learning proper techniques and principles for exercise at a young age. Understanding the necessities of proper warm-up and cool-down periods, and learning how to conduct training that is safe will be with the youngster for a lifetime.

5. Balance, coordination, and flexibility are should all be part of a challenging but broad-based training agenda in the beginner workout schedule.

6. Weight machines and free weights aren't the only way to train. How to gain muscle without weights show multiple approaches to get the job done, and they may provide some variety to keep the child interested. Weighted ropes, medicine balls, body weight resistance and elastic tubing are other devices that can be used effectively.

7. The cool down period can incorporate stretching plus less intense calisthenics. It is safest to have the exercises performed without resistance, and when the particular technique is mastered only then gradually increase the amount of resistance. A trainer will know when greater resistance can be taken on as the child matures.

As with adults, a strength training program should be individualized based on goals, present abilities, and where the child is mentally. It is vital that the trainer has experience working with kids, as a child's training program should never be a scaled-down version of an adult's regimen. It must be an enjoyable experience, or he or she will merely lose interest.




Getting your children involved in strength training involves a qualified trainer and a Beginner Workout Schedule. The Best Way to Gain Muscle involves proper diet and a long-term plan to meet your goals. Rich Carroll is a writer and health enthusiast living in London.

Having Trouble Sleeping? Here Are Some Golden Tips

If youre among the many who are having trouble sleeping there are some great tips to heed that are cheap and dont have side effects. Many believe that drugs are the only answer but the reality is there are quite a few great natural ways that really work.

Tip number one to take into consideration is that you are meant to sleep in complete darkness. Many dont realize that something as simple as a LED clock can throw off your production of melatonin and serotonin made by your pineal gland. Make sure you use blackout shades covered by heavy curtains and eliminate the LED clock. The slightest amount of light can signal your brain its time to get up and get moving. Many dont realize even the smallest glow from your clock can disrupt your internal clock.

The reality is life over thousands of years has evolved based on whats known as circadian rhythms. With invention of modern electrical lighting comes a major disruption on your internal clock. Think about it for minute. What happens if you get up to go to the bathroom and turn on the light? Five hundred years ago the sun didnt come up for you to relieve yourself. Believe it or not science proves that light from your eye moved directly to your hypothalamus from your optic nerve which in turn influences your biological clock instantly.

The next tip is to try to get to bed as early as possible. Science shows that your body does the majority of its recharging in between the hours of 11pm and 1 am. This coupled with the fact that your gallbladder tends to discharge its toxins during this same period can cause extra issues as toxins back up into your liver. Think about it for a moment. Before the invention of electricity most folks would turn in for the night not long after sundown. This is the same for animals as well. God never intended us to stay up till 1 and 2 am.

The final tip would be to try elevating your heart rate by doing any form of decent exercise. Many find it quite amazing how well they sleep after even a moderate exercise session. People dont realize that god didnt intend for us to drive to every location and sit in a office all day. We arent meant to move. When you take on a sedentary lifestyle it causes many precipitating factors to happen. One of which often is sleep impairment.

Max has been writing articles for 4 years and has a passion for health and fitness. He also writes on improvement as well. Check out his site on curtain hardware or on extra long shower curtains.

Sunday, July 21, 2013

Morning, Evening? When Is the Best Time to Exercise?



If you are trying to lose weight or are simply interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, then regular exercise is a key ingredient in their recipe of goal achievement. However, many of us are struggling with lives that are increasingly busy and, consequently, we see our free time diminish as our responsibilities increase. This is bad news for people who want to exercise, especially because the best time of day for a work out is between 4 and 6 pm. Great. Right after work and right before dinner-probably the time of day when we have the least amount of energy!

Of course, exercise practices are subject to much debate among nutritionists and researchers and as with nearly everything else in life, not all agree with each other regarding how to design the optimal exercise program. However, most experts generally agree that the late afternoon/early evening is the best time to exercise because

· Our strength levels are greatest in the afternoon and this helps our endurance. We can exercise longer, harder and push our bodies more than we can any other time of day.

· Due to increased strength, we are less likely to injure ourselves while exercising. Many people injure themselves when exercising in the morning or late at night, but mid-day strength keeps us from getting hurt as often.

· Our body is in balance hormonally and our body temperature is at its highest. We are thus feeling our best and mindset is an important part of exercise.

The problem with the late afternoon vis a vis exercise is that it is a time of day when we are least likely to exercise or be able to exercise. Researchers have also concluded that people who have a fitness program that they do in the mornings are the most likely to be consistent and keep up with their work outs. However, in the morning our body is at its weakest and most vulnerable, so its looks like we have run into a bit of a conundrum here.

The truth is, while it would be great to exercise at the right time of day, it is more important that you exercise at all. If the only way you can keep your work-out routine regular is by going for a 5 am jog, then go for 5 am jogs. Don't stop yourself from exercising just because you can't get on the treadmill at 5 pm everyday. One strategy that you can use to get the best of both worlds is to try and walk as much as you can between workouts and maybe commit to going on a walk before or after dinner (if weather permits). You may not have the strength for a full-on work-out at the end of each workday, but if you can incorporate movement in some capacity, you will take advantage of your body's optimal late afternoon condition. Whatever you do, get active-your body needs it!




About the Author

Maureen Hamilton is an Integrated Neuro-Linguistic Programming Master Practitioner, Hypnotherapist and a Demartini Method Facilitator. Maureen has previously worked in many areas of health in Australia as well as overseas. Her health background includes training in general and midwifery nursing, mental health plus other modalities. Maureen is very much involved in promoting and assisting people to obtain optimal health and is absolutely committed to helping people to stop smoking and/or lose weight naturally using Hypnosis and NLP.
If you would like to find out more, visit http://masteryourlifepower.com and and talk to Maureen about your requirements.

Saturday, July 20, 2013

Effective Workout Tips: Get Your Dream Body in 30 Minutes a Day



Disclaimer: Before following this or any exercise program, check with your doctor.

Did you know that you don't have to workout for hours in order to get your dream body? It's true. In fact, only 30-45 minutes a day is enough to firm you up and trim you down-if your exercise routines are the correct type. Follow these effective workout tips and get your dream body in just 30 minutes a day.

1. Intersperse high intensity workouts with lower intensity ones. You can do this in two ways. Either you can pump up the intensity during your regular workout, or you can perform high intensity workouts every other day. For instance, your exercise routines could include:

  • Walking on the treadmill for 30 minutes at three miles per hour. But every five or 10 minutes of this workout, crank your speed up to four miles per hour for two minutes.

  • Walking on the treadmill for 30 minutes at three miles per hour, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, pick up your pace to four miles an hour.


 

Remember always to increase your endurance before you increase the intensity of your workout.

2. Combine Cardio with Strength Training. The folks at Curves Fitness Centers have it right: combining cardio with strength training is one of the most effective workout tips. This is called circuit training, and science has even confirmed its efficacy at burning more calories than either cardio or strength training alone. Plus you can cut your workout time in half!

3. Mix it Up. If you enjoy your exercise routine, that's great. But if you enjoy it to the point that it becomes easy, you've got a problem. You see, your body becomes very efficient at performing exercises that you do all the time. At that point, your workout does not, well, work out very well anymore. To keep that from happening, mix your exercise routines up. Intersperse jogging with walking, tennis, or swimming, for instance.

4. Consume Protein. One of the best workout tips is to consume lots of protein. Your muscles need s it to rebuild muscle. This is true, by the way, for both cardio and strength training workouts. So make sure you include lots of protein in your diet.

5. Eat Carbs. Just like you need protein to repair muscle from your workout, you need carbs to give you energy. Eating a banana before your exercise routines are a great way of providing energy for your workout.

Although there are many effective workout tips, these are five of the most important. Just pace yourself, work up to your goal, and you could have your dream body in just 30 minutes a day.




Christine Mattice is well-verse on fitness and nutrition. Visit http://www.allfitnessweb.net for quick, easy, and PLENTIFUL fitness and exercise tips.

Friday, July 19, 2013

Basic Hamstring Injury Exercises

What is a hamstring strain?

A hamstring strain refers to an injury or partial tear of the proximinal hamstring muscles. A hamstring strain is a common sports injury to athletes who are required to perform quick and hard muscular movements. Hamstring injury exercises are caused by violent muscular exertions sometimes tearing away a part of the tendinous origins of the hamstrings especially to biceps femoris from the ischial tuberosity. A hamstring injury is sometimes referred to as "pulled hamstring" which may have caused by a direct blow or accidental punched at the muscle located at the back of thigh. When this happens, there may appear contusions (bruises), swelling, tearing of some of the muscle fibers and rupture of blood vessels, producing blood clot or hematoma, with a feeling of soreness. The degree of the injury sustained can be determined by its appearance and symptoms:

* Bruises in the thigh area. Muscle tears will cause the tissue to bleed and bruise. The discoloration usually starts within the first few days upon impact starting at the thigh region and further down the knee towards the foot area.

* Swelling in the thigh during the first few hours after injury. Blood tends to build up due to the injury causing the thigh area to swell. Any other muscle movement or contraction can be very difficult and painful. The application of compressive bandage within the affected part can help suppress the swelling.

* Spasm. The most common reaction in hamstring injury is muscle pain. In case the pain continues despite first aid medications, muscle relaxants may be administered to help ease the pain.

* Difficulty of contractions. Sudden movements in the knee would be painful after a hamstring strain and may hamper the patient from walking normally. If contraction continues, the hamstring muscle may be completely ruptured.

* Weakness in the hamstring can persist for weeks for severe cases.

Function of Hamstring

There hamstring muscles are grouped into three called semitendinosus, semimembranosus, and biceps femoris, collectively called as the hamstring muscle group. The function of hamstring is for flexing or bending leg from the knee joint extending up to the thigh at hip joint. Knowing how the hamstrings work will give us the extent of the injury when the hamstrings are dislocated. The hamstrings are vital in our daily activities and bodily movements like walking, running, and jumping. In addition, hamstring controls the movements of the lower body. Despite these functions, hamstrings are not very elastic compared to other muscles and are prone to stress and pressure.

Severity of a Pulled Hamstring

Due to sudden extended pull on the legs, like kicking or performing a kick, athletes involved in sports like track and field, soccer, and basketball are prone to hamstring injury. To avoid injury to the leg and thigh, athletes has to undergo hamstring injury exercises or warm-up exercises before embarking to extensive workouts. A minor hamstring injury or "Grade 1" injuries can take about two weeks to heal. The tearing injury is usually microscopic that happened on the muscle fibers causing the muscle to bleed. A "Grade 2" injury is a partial tear in the muscle. While in severe hamstring strains or "Grade 3" injuries, healing may take to three months or even more. When this happens, the hamstring muscle can be wholly damage that may need surgical operations to treat the affected region. In case of a complete rupture, rehabilitation is required. Grades 2 and 3 injuries are considered serious cases requiring assistance from a sport's doctor, physical therapist, or trainer to help in the rehabilitation.

Treatment for pulled Hamstring

A hamstring injury can be a minor pull, a partial tear or a complete tear. Treatment for a pulled hamstring must start at once following an injury. The first 48 hours is vital and critical to the patient. Most hamstring injury responds well to plain, non-surgical treatments. For minor hamstring injury, the following treatment may be carried out by the athlete themselves or with some help. Recommended treatment for hamstring injury include rest, ice treatment, compression, and leg elevation.

* Cold therapy treatment. Apply ice directly to the injury at least 15 to 20 minutes within two to three hours for two days to reduce tenderness and pain. A thin towel may be used to protect the skin from ice burn. If there is swelling, continue to apply the therapy until swelling is reduced.

* Use of compression bandage. The bandage will give support and help reduce swelling. This will provide soothe leg sore and minimize intra-muscular bleeding.

* Leg elevation. To reduce swelling, the injured leg should be placed higher than your heart while resting. This will enable blood and fluid to guard against hamstring injury. Leg elevation must also be done during cold therapy treatment to help reduce the swelling.

* Leg therapy. If the leg pain and soreness had settled down, physical therapy can now begin. Mobilization of the injured lower limb is good to rehabilitate the muscle in the leg and thigh to restore strengths and muscle vitality.

Hamstring injury exercises; recommended

An injured hamstring takes a longer period to heal. For its full recovery, you need hamstring injury exercises such as stretching. If the leg strain is minor, then body exercises can start after two days from the happening of the injury. Continue with the ice treatment for one or two days until swelling disappeared. However, if the injury is severe, it may take ten to three months rehabilitation. For improved pain management and strength, hamstrings are trained with muscular movements like the knee curl, lifting as well as lower body exercises like stretching, walking, jogging, hopping, cycling and others.

* Stretching. It is vital for tight muscles and joints. Stretching will improve movements in the joint and promotes muscle flexibility, strength, increase endurance and improve muscle movements.

* Using weights for strength. When the injured hamstring became stronger, you can carry some weights to strengthen the muscle. Strenuous muscle training would most likely cause muscles to ache. Do not overdo, start in small amount of weight until your body get used to it. Always start with warm up exercises before indulging in excessive weight training. Hamstring warm-ups could include leg swings, standing bicycle, and lightweights.

* Walking, jogging, hopping, or cycling can be done gradually. At home, you can use some basic exercises like climbing stairs, or doing some household chores to increase strength and stamina.

Post-operative exercises must have the supervision of the attending physician or the physical therapist. If there is feeling of tightness or stiffness of the hamstrings, reduce the amount of exercises or just maintain stretching to make the muscle feel loose and comfortable. Until your injured hamstring is ready to resume sport activities, maintain the recommended hamstring injury exercises to keep the muscles fit and in good shape. Follow the exercises discussed above, to strengthen the hamstrings and prevent injury to your leg.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Jogging Stroller Or Bike Trailer?



I've been into fitness, eating right and staying fit for a long time. I have numerous passions when it's coming to staying fit, but jogging and biking are the top two to be sure. This can lead to a difficult conundrum - jogging stroller or bike trailer?

Bike Trailers Are Lifestyle Machines
The great thing about trailers is that you can take more than one child with ease and you take them along way. Modern cycle trailers are stable and safe. Before the advent of that technology, people would sit their children in a plastic seat strapped onto the back of a bike. No more. Like great jogging strollers, child carriers for bikes have come a long way.

Both have numerous advantages. Most models of bike trailers have plenty of safety features such as five point harnesses and big wheels. The five point harness is especially important in a bike trailer, because the possibility of a quick stop from a relatively high speed is there.

Jogging Strollers Are Very Flexible
Jogging strollers also have a lot of advantages. They are designed for speed and rough terrain. They have lots of safety features and usually lots of comfort features for the kids also. This includes things like a canopy to protect from the sun, drink and snack holders for you and the kids and cargo holders.

So how does one decide? If you enjoy both activities but can't necessarily afford both then you have a choice to make.

You can't make it on price, they are generally priced about the same.

Features? No, they are generally both well featured for the money.

Selection? That won't work either, there's tons of different manufacturers of both types of strollers.

Jogging strollers are best suited to a person that might ordinarily run by themselves. That's why they tend to be popular with new Moms. During the day if Mom wants to exercise, but doesn't want to hit the gym, jogging is the answer. Odds are, you are going to take your whole family jogging!

On the other hand, if your choice of exercise tends to be more family related activities then a bike trailer might be better for you. If you tend to walk or hike with your kids and family, or generally do things as a family group, then the bike trailer is the right choice.

It's hard to go wrong with either choice. Both will serve you for a long time. Both are safe, a lot of fun and will help keep you fit. The important thing is that you keep moving and keep fit.




Jogging strollers or bike trailer? It depends on your lifestyle.

Ways to Bulk Up Fast

Youll require a strong sense of commitment if you are working on how to bulk up quickly. Youve got to check how many calories you take in, because calories is needed on your muscles. Calories helps the entire body for energy.

Learning the number of calories you ought to consume will depend on your build and weight, using your weight and multiplying it out to determine the correct calorie count for your body, on a daily basis.

Here are some of the best methods for how to bulk up quickly.

Youll want to lift heavy weights to bulk up, but you will want to do so carefully, to avoid injury. After you consume calories, you will have the energy needed to lift bigger weights. It is essential that you use the correct technique and form to have good results.

Whenever you determine your correct calorie consumption with the correct lifting workouts, put into consideration how much protein you will be consuming. Youve got to know everything that is necessary so that youd know how to bulk up quickly. In estimating the protein youll require, use your height and weight and also the sort of develop you have. A lot more protein is needed in your body in case you have a muscular physique.

Getting more protein in your every day diet may be done through foods or supplements, or both. Supplements could be useful for gaining protein without fat as well. The supplements may save you time, too, because you wont have to be preparing a great deal of high-protein food. Do not depend on supplements for proteins you also want to eat real foods.

You will find three main components which will assist you demonstrate how to bulk up quickly. The chemistry under your muscle growth is a good place to begin. In order for this area to work well appropriate diet is a must. You also need to exercise on a very regular basis - you cant bulk up with supplements alone. Your personal trainer can assist you bulk in a speedy manner with the assist of specific exercises. Do not forget to rest. Your muscles actually are built whenever you are recovering from exercise.

In bulking up, begin with your diet, adding the calories you need to get the most effective results. Lean calories will help add muscle in the body. Youll need 3500 calories daily in case you weigh about 200 pounds. Consume good calories and avoid fatty foods.

Protein ought to be increased in your diet, too, to work out how to bulk up quickly. To improve the muscle mass in your body you need a gram and a half protein. An athlete that weighs about 250 pounds will want a bit over ten ounces of protein a day. Be sure to take your protein hours ahead of your work to ensure that you are able to use the energy it provides.

For more information about this, check out How to Bulk Up Quickly. And to get some great fitness advice I recommend you going to Fitness Advice.

What Not to Say: 4 Attitude Statements That Sink Personal Wellness

As owner and practitioner of a fully-booked alternative wellness center in New York City, and as a weight and energy mentor for individuals across the country, I have the privilege of working with many people every week. Together with each patient, I use a combination of eastern and western modalities to improve overall wellness. In almost every case, we find that mindset--that is, a persons attitude or way of thinking--can have the power to make or break wellness goals. While an optimistic mindset lends a tremendous boost to health and wellbeing, a poor one can sabotage progress in a heartbeat.

No one can power through wellness issues while feeling hopeless or stuck in a rut. I often am alerted to this underlying problem by offhand comments a patient makes. These red flag statements tell me mindset should be moved to the top of the priority list. Do you find yourself saying these things from time to time?

"Same stuff, different day."

This statement reveals a person whos going through life in a hum-drum, mechanized way, feeling devoid of a zest for life and missing that spark of creativity. Its almost as if the "same stuff" person is just marking off the days on calendar. Theres no sense of excitement or hope, just a routine muddling forward.

If this sounds like you, dont keep rolling thoughtlessly along. Take action to break the cycle. Shake up the ho-hum routine! I challenge you to plunge into three new experiences this week. Your new activity doesnt have to be expensive or take up lots of precious time, and you dont have to be convinced youll love it forever before you start. The point is to just do something different. Me? Im trying gyrotonics, gratitude lists, and massages.

"I tried that once, and it didnt work."

Ask yourself: Have you seen remarkable results after one exercise class or one vitamin pill? Chances are you havent. Its no surprise that there are few experiences that are so powerfully life-changing that an accurate negative evaluation can be made after just one try.

When a particular modality, supplement, or activity doesnt work like magic after only one attempt, dont be discouraged. Tangible or measurable results take time. Commit to giving it a realistic try before deciding something just isnt for you.

"Its always been that way, so Im doomed."

It might be true that you have a long-term condition. Truly, Im not brushing aside the facts of your current health; it is important to honestly honor where you are today.

But just suppose you were to adopt a new openness to the possibility that things could improve. Often those who say "This is the way it always is" are actually expressing frustration with a temporary situation. Even with a chronic condition, receptiveness to change may lead to small or even extensive improvement. Keep the faith.

"Why is everyone getting healthier, thinner, richer--except me?"

Its not possible to judge your progress fairly if you use another human as your measuring stick. Every body, every personality, every set of life experiences is different. What works for one person may not offer the same results for another.

Dont compare yourself to others. Instead, ask yourself, "Whats my progress been in the past few months, and what how can I be proactive to help myself even more?"

So often, the first step toward improved wellness is an improved mindset. Listen to yourself on the days you feel tired, sore, low, or just blah. What we say sets the stage for how we act--and how we feel. Begin today to put a positive, hopeful spin on your health by putting positive, hopeful words in your mouth.

The ancient saying "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" is true when it comes to addressing your health and wellness. Are you ready to make that first step? Give me a call at 212-686-0939, or visit my Website. Let me be your guide on the path to looking, feeling, and BEING the best you possibly can!

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Various Types of Gym Equipment



Going to the gymnasium has become a very popular pastime for many people all over the world. It is not only a way to keep fit but also a way to spend extra time in a healthy way as opposed to engaging in mischief. People go to such places because they do not own most, or not all of the gym equipment that is available at the facility. They therefore choose to go to the gym and pay a fee usually charged either monthly or annually. Having one of the machines at home may be helpful but it may not give you the overall fitness and muscle toning that you may be after. It is therefore wiser to just hit the gym when you need to work out.

One infamous type of equipment that is found at the gym is the treadmill. It is one of the most sought after machines and one of the most used. It helps people to build up stamina, enabling them to run and cover distance without actually moving from their location. The treadmill can be set to rotate at a pace that is comfortable for the person working out. It also has options to add an incline to make the workout tougher and really help to tone your lower legs. Advancement in science and technology has seen the advent of treadmills that are hooked up to widescreens that keep changing scenery as though one is truly running in the outdoors, when in truth they are just in one place. The treadmill is ideal for toning leg muscles and for cutting weight. This improves cardiovascular functioning.

Other types of gym equipment include weights. Weights are commonly preferred by men and women who would like to build arm muscle and biceps. They have varying weights and are usually circular in shape with a hole in the middle where the bar for lifting is passed. A beginner is usually advised by the instructor to start with the lighter weights and slowly progress to heavier ones. It is important to have an instructor when you are first learning how to lift weights because if these exercises are carried out correctly they could lead to damaging muscles. Once you have learned to complete these exercises out properly, you will be able to train alone of with a friend. You will be able to see the results of your work out over time.

Much lighter gym equipment includes the dumbbells. They are mostly used during aerobic sessions to help flex the arms and the shoulder muscles. They are also very good for the lower back muscles. If you are looking to lose some weight or just to try and keep in better shape these are great.




Writing about gym equipment, Zoe Robinson aims to provide readers with informative knowledge into her experience gained within this area and offer readers the chance to view a website she has experienced positively. View a range of home gym equipment today.

Monday, July 15, 2013

Crunch the Habit of Doing Crunch After Crunch



Your other exercises are typically in the range of 8-15 reps. So what in the world makes you think that doing crunch after crunch, after crunch, after crunch will have any effect?

If something at the gym takes you hundreds of reps in order to feel even a minuscule burn, you're doing it wrong.

I don't know how crunches became so popular. I think people like them because they're easy to do, and because the stomach area is the number one problem area for most people. But you're not going to get six-pack abs from doing thousands of crunches. Crunches do little to strengthen or tighten your core. Plus, they really only hit the top half of your abs, leaving your lower abs neglected. You're wasting your time and effort.

There are much better ab exercises. Here are three of our favorites:

Roman chair

Most gyms have this piece of equipment. It's the chair with armrests but no seat to sit on. To complete one rep, you start with your legs straight below you and pull your knees up to your chest with your abs. For a more advanced exercise, keep your legs straight and extend them straight out in front of you. Try to finish with your legs slightly past parallel with the ground, and try to hold your legs in the final position if you can for an additional burn.

The key to this exercise is to not swing your legs. Momentum is the ultimate results killer. Try to go slower if you feel the tendency to swing your body. Bring your legs down slowly when returning to the starting position after each rep and focus on using the lower part of your abs to get them past horizontal.

Try to do sets of 15-20 with your legs fully extended, if possible.

Stability ball sit-ups

These are excellent for your abs and the only other exercise I do for my abs besides the Roman chair. Most gyms have these balls in various sizes. Grab one of the larger ones and sit on it such that the arch of your lower back rests along the curvature of the ball. Extend downwards as far as you can comfortably go for the starting position, and contract your abs and obliques to thrust your chest as high as possible. Go up slowly upwards and slowly back down. Remember, this is a sit-up, not a crunch.

By using the stability ball, you really have to focus on your core to keep yourself balanced during each sit-up. Try to also do sets of 15-20 reps of these.

Sprinting

Sprinting is easily my favorite ab exercise. The process of driving your knees explosively forward as you sprint will work your abs and obliques more intensely than any other exercise. I can't remember the last time I did a sprint workout and wasn't sore all around my midsection.

Not to mention, a regular sprinting regimen like the one used in EpicFit20's Premium Membership will help shed fat from the stomach and oblique area, making the ab muscles look even better.




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