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Gyms have their positive points: they are convenient, house lots of equipment, and often have childcare available to parents who need to tote their tots to the gym (this includes yours truly). Gyms also can offer a range of fitness classes and most  have personal trainers on staff. If you're not a huge fan of going to the gym however, and would like to try something different, check out these fun alternatives... Stroller Fit® SF targets the  “mommy muscles” – those muscles used during  labor and delivery, and post-partum, and basically every day thereafter. Moms have a chance to get ......
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Maybe you've been on a workout train for some time, diligently going to the gym and happily taking your dose of cardio and weight training, maybe even a few classes too just to challenge yourself. Perhaps you've been on this train, per se, for years, then all of a sudden, you're okay with missing a workout, then two. The idea of going to the gym or out the door for a jog becomes a chore, when it was once something you enjoyed. Have you been there? Are you there now? If so, read on... I think I can help. True, I am a trainer, but at heart, I'm really a fitness buff and have been since college. ......
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Because I love yoga, and Pilates, but am by no means a guru of either practice, I felt compelled to pass along some helpful resources so that you can learn more. Yoga is one of those activities that evolves as you evolve. The yoga you do today will not be the same yoga you do a year from now, and your body won't likely be the same body either (note: this is a good thing - Yoga evens 'things' out, balances muscles, massages the joints, just all-around good stuff ;0). I've learned through my own yoga/Pilates journey that there is always something new to learn.  That said, here are some fabulous......
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Even though I have addressed this topic before (a-hem, at least twice before), I'm circling back because A) I keep getting asked, "I did strength training today, what should I do tomorrow?" and B) I keep getting asked, "Is it okay to do both strength training and cardio on the same day?" If you want to cut to the chase, check out: "Cardiovascular or Weight Training: Which should come first?" Otherwise, stay right here, 'cause I'm about to WOW you with...pretty much the same thing I said before. ;0) Here's the thing - you need to know what it is you want to get out of your workouts. Are you try......
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You have probably heard about Pilates, or possibly know someone who talks of "reformers, chairs, straps, pulleys" (and other contraptions), and silently wonder, "what the heck is Pilates anyway?" The Pilates Method (or simply Pilates) was developed in Germany in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. The core-strengthening and posture-improving benefits of regular practice have helped the Pilates Method develop a loyal following of faithful participants in recent years. The aesthetic benefits of regular practice can be seen on the physiques of famous devotees, such as Madonna and Gwyneth Pa......
Apr

28

This gadget you see to your left here is one of my very favorite training tools. It is a TRX suspension training system, and I love it. It is lightweight and sets up in under 2 mins. You can use it indoors (with a door attachment) and out. And, it is easy to learn (but is also deceivingly challenging, making it the ideal tool for those who like to push themselves…safely).

Spurred by questions regarding the TRX Suspension Training system, I thought I’d give you my two cents, and also point central Ohio fitness enthusiasts toward local resources, in case you’d want to give it a try…

First, know that the TRX is not a gimmick, it is a tool that truly delivers what it promises – total body fitness. Don’t believe me?  Watch this video with Drew Brees, who recently utilized the TRX to rehab a shoulder injury.  A slew of professional athletes and pro teams use the TRX to gain strength, improve flexibility, and achieve overall body conditioning.

Second, the TRX is fairly easy to learn. Even if you are comfortable using the online instruction videos and DVDs from Fitness Anywhere at home, you can take a class to learn from a certified professional. I highly recommend it.

Learn it locally – Columbus, OH

You can learn from yours truly, if you wish. Email me if you’d like to find out more about private training using the TRX (info@blueskygym.com)

Also, the Dublin Community Rec Center offers classes for beginners, as well as “express” style workouts for individuals who have some experience with the TRX. You need to be a member of the rec center to take these classes. You can register online. DCRC spring/summer fitness schedule

Urban Moves in Bexley
2354 E. Main Street, Bexley, 43209

If you really want to learn the TRX, I recommend taking a TRX workshop from Fitness Anywhere. There is one on Feb. 7th in Toledo @ the West Toledo YMCA
2110 Tremainsville Rd., Toledo, 43613
Contact: Margaret Pratt @ 415-655-4781 for more information.

Apr

07

Fans of “The Perfect Push-up” rejoice, there is a new kid in town…The Perfect Situp.”I know…it is about time (wink.)

Having never actually tried “the perfect push-up” or “perfect situp” do-hickies, I can not honestly attest to their perfectness, however, I think that any apparatus that improves form and, most of all, gets you excited about doing the exercise, is worth a shot. Also, most people do abdominal exercises incorrectly, so if “the perfect situp” helps, then there will be a lot of people standing a little taller very soon, and sporting some six-packs too.

The scoop: The Perfect Situp promises to target all four abdominal muscles (transverse abdominus, rectus abdominus, and external/internal obliques); enable you to complete abdominal exercises with perfect form; and allows you to progress as you get stronger by adding resistance in the form of 10-30lb blades.

View the video to see how it works: Perfect Situp video

Cost: $99.95 + free shipping

I haven’t tried it myself, but will surely check it out at the next fitness convention I attend. It is always fun to sample new equipment!

If you have tried the Perfect Situp, I’d love to hear what you think…!

Apr

06

skywallThis piece of equipment might well be one of the coolest things I’ve seen (and after more than a decade in the fitness business, I’ve seen a lot of cool things)…Skywall! A motorized climbing wall that enables you to hone your climbing skills, without the height (or necessary belts and harnesses). The wall is about 11 ft tall, has 10 different climbing speeds, and the rocks can be moved around, so each climb is completely unique.

Some benefits to climbing, in case you’re new to this sport (as am I):

Climbing…

  • strengthens and tones nearly every muscle in the body
  • strengthens joints
  • strengthens the core
  • burns an incredible number of calories: 150-250 per 15 minutes on the motorized wall!!

You can find out more about the Skywall at Motion Fitness.

P.S – There is a kid-sized version of this wall that is 9ft high and recommended for kids up to age 9. Another, slightly larger model is designed for kids up to age 12. My two cents: this seems like a fun way to introduce kids to climbing in a safe environment. If I can find out what gyms/where have these, I’ll pass the info along.

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