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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  âmommy musclesâ â 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......
Oct

22

For a program to be truly effective, it must include both cardiovascular and strength training activities. True, you burn more calories during cardiovascular activity sustained within your target heart rate zone for 20-mins or more, but weight training builds muscle, tones and strengthens your body, and keeps your metabolism at an optimal level. Muscle is also where fat is burned!


Cardio 411

The Benefits of Cardiovascular Training

The benefits of consistent training extend beyond the obvious changes that occur. Yes, your physique will shrink, the number on your scale will go down, and your wardrobe will become more flattering. In the short term, you will:
•    Develop a healthier heart
•    Increase endurance
•    Strengthen muscles, bones and joints
•    Sleep better
•    Improve sense of well-being
•    Cope with stress better
•    Burn calories more efficiently

Those are some great benefits for a modest time commitment on your part. But wait, there is more…over the long-term, regular physical activity will also reduce your risk of:
•    Dying prematurely
•    Dying from heart disease
•    Developing diabetes
•    Developing high blood pressure
•    Becoming obese
Some studies correlate regular exercise with a lower incidence of colon, breast, lung and multiple myeloma cancers.

Jun

22

Clearer thoughts. I’ve been saying for years that I do my best thinking when I’m running. This is especially true outdoors AND when I don’t listen to anything other than my rhythmic breathing and feet hitting the pavement. While I don’t have scientific evidence to support it, my hunch is that being alone, with no other distractions, helps to organize your thoughts. Or, maybe the soothing effects of being in close proximity to nature reduces daily stresses long enough to let clear thoughts emerge.

Don’t like sustained bouts of cardio, you say?
If you are one of those exercise-loathing souls, then perhaps the idea of having time to yourself will make it more enjoyable. Just think — while you walk/jog/run, you can reacquaint yourself with your own, original thoughts (ones that you actually conjure up on your own and can sustain for longer than 60 seconds without being interrupted by Pokeman facts, Webkinz’ pet names, and snack requests). For many moms I know, this benefit alone sends them out the door with smoke on their heels. Over time, they learn to enjoy the actual exercise part too (wink). The natural endorphins probably don’t hurt either.

Whatever the case, if you want to clear your head, then hit the trail (and leave your iPod at home).

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