Controversial School Fitness Option—Pole Dancing, Anyone?

I realize that many college co-eds resort to uh, shall we say, creative means to pay for their educations, but I must admit I was a bit stunned when I heard that a European high school was actually making it easier for students to learn the ropes of pole dancing, in case they needed to put their skills to use in the future. Am I the only one who equates pole dancing with strip clubs? Apparently administrators at South Devon College in the United Kingdom don’t see the relation. In their eyes pole dancing is merely a source of fitness. … Continue reading

The Fitness Week in Review for Week Ending June 6

What a week! Can you believe that it’s the first week of June and that we’re at the halfway point in the year? Intellectually I know time has passed, but it feels like yesterday that my daughter entered 1st grade and all of a sudden she was officially passing the 1st grade and is now a 2nd grader. It’s more than enough to make a mom weep, but more on that at another time. Right now, let’s take a look at our fitness week in review. Focus on the Olympics In our continuing series that focuses on the Olympic athletes … Continue reading

Dance Fitness – Wanna Dance?

So You Think You Can Dance is back on television and like last year, my daughter and I are totally hooked. This Thursday they will launch the actual contest. Whenever I watch the show, I’m reminded of just how physical is dancing (not that I needed the reminder), but with the show back on, it’s a good time to remind others as well. If you’re interested in switching up your fitness routine this summer, consider dancing as a way to invigorate your workout while also toning your body, burning extra calories and just overall feeling great. Think dancing can’t burn … Continue reading

A Review of Bhangra Aerobics

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I was excited about a new fitness trend, Bollywood-style aerobics. In my enthusiasm for East Indian culture, I hadn’t really considered the whole aerobics thing. You see, it has never been my forte. The reason? I am incredibly uncoordinated and have no sense of rhythm. I am one of those “wanna be’s,” where I would love to be able to shake my stuff and look good doing it. But alas, I was not gifted with any musical talents and that includes dance. So here was my first problem with “Bhangra Aerobics.” There … Continue reading

Do You Prevent Your Own Success?

A friend of mine gave me a great book recently. In April, I was going to England for a week and I’m always desperate for good reading material on the plane. We’ve got an odd collection of books around here, but I love books that have buried wisdom in them. This book is called “How to Be Totally Miserable.” Our doubts are traitors, And make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt. – William Shakespeare Misery Loves Company Too often we sabotage our own success whether in life, in school or in our fitness choices. … Continue reading