Search Results for: blog dont let the cold weather derail your fitness routine

The Ultimate Stairmaster

Forget about those fancy elliptical machines that supposedly place less stress on your knees, if you want a high-intensity, calorie-burning exercise, then find the nearest flight of stairs. Stairs are everywhere, but most fitness lovers tend to pass them by in favor of high-tech gym equipment. But, why? Stairs don’t cost a dime to use and provide a workout that returns maximum value in minimum time. Studies show stair climbing gives you more bang for your buck because of the vertical component still, fitness experts say the exercise doesn’t have a big following. Perhaps, it’s because most exercisers don’t realize … Continue reading →

Fitness Myths: Setting the Record Straight

Now that we know sit ups won’t melt away body fat and building muscle doesn’t necessarily translate into a speedier metabolism, let’s debunk a few more popular fitness myths: Myth: Lifting Weights Makes You Look Bulky If you are a woman, who is concerned that lifting weights is going to make you look like Popeye, you can stop worrying. According to experts, women can’t develop muscles like men. However, if you are still not convinced, then workout with lighter weights, or complete exercises that use your own bodyweight for resistance. Bottom line: The average woman doesn’t produce enough testosterone to … Continue reading →

Pilates Becoming Popular with Men

For years Pilates has been popular with women looking to improve their flexibility and strengthen their core. But, a new study out shows that the exercises designed for total body conditioning are now attracting a record number of men. Some 12.5 million people participated in Pilates in 2006, the latest year for which figures are available, up from 9.4 million in 2003, according to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association. What’s more, of those 12.5 million more than a third are men. That’s up more than half from 2003. Experts theorize that the growing number of men who are supplementing their … Continue reading →

Debunking Fitness Myths

I always wonder about those sweaty guys I see in the gym who do dozens of crunches, then stroll over to the vending machine to down a bottle of Mountain Dew. Unless that’s the only high calorie beverage they consume all day, I would think they would be better off drinking a bottle of water. That is if they ever want to see the six-pack abs they are trying to create via the crunches. Crunches won’t get rid of body fat. That’s one of the biggest fitness myths out there. The only way you are going to be able to … Continue reading →

More Gift Ideas for the Fitness Fanatics in Your Family

If you have a swimmer, biker, runner or walker in your family, then you might be struggling to familiarize yourself with the slew of exercise equipment on the market today, as you search for the perfect Christmas gift. Save some time and a lot of needless stress by reviewing the high-tech fitness gadgets listed below. Both items come highly recommended by experts (and mere mortals) who use them on a daily basis: Garmin Forerunner 405 Given its price this is a fitness item that you might want to reserve for a truly beloved family member. For $300 your resident fitness … Continue reading →

Christmas Gift Ideas for Fitness Fanatics

Struggling to find the perfect gift for the fitness guru on your holiday shopping list? Then, you’ve come to the right place. While many people shy away from getting exercise-related gifts for loved ones because of the high price or lack of knowledge, shopping for fitness gadgets is really not that difficult. Take a look at the following items that can help refresh your loved one’s workouts without breaking the bank: Nike + iPod Sport Kit This inexpensive yet effective gift retails for just $29. If your fitness fanatic friend uses his existing iPod Nano or iPod Touch while running … Continue reading →

More Tips on Staying Fit During the Holidays

A new survey out says the average American can expect to put on 10 pounds of weight between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. Basically, the research shows that most of us are weaklings when it comes to resisting the temptation to gorge on holiday goodies. What’s more, survey respondents also shared that they are simply too busy to hit the gym during the month of December, which further hinders the fitness process. So what can you do to avoid the seasonal slump? Take a look: Strength Training. Incorporate strength-training exercises into your workout to maximize calorie burning. Lunges, push-ups, and … Continue reading →

Staying Ahead of Your New Year’s Fitness Resolutions

If you are firmly resolving to get in shape in 2009, then why not get a head start on your promise by burning fat over the holidays? It’s not as difficult as it might sound. By following the tips below you can get fit (and be two steps ahead of your New Year’s resolution) and still party like its 1999: Create a Home Gym. It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate; rather get creative with what you have. For example, crunches, push-ups, jumping jacks and many other exercises can be done without any gym equipment. Use this “home gym” … Continue reading →

Fitness Food for Thought

“Don’t Let the Cold Weather Derail Your Fitness Routine,” “Making Workouts a Priority During the Holiday Season,” “Don’t Let the Holidays Ruin Your Fitness Routine”—-BAH HUMBUG! I know, I know. I was the one who wrote the aforementioned blogs, but honestly, I’m too tired to brush my hair let alone hit the gym for a workout. And I know I’m not alone. So, for all of you regular gym goers who are desperately looking for someone to support your decision to take a break from exercising today, you’ve come to the right place. In fact, I actually found a fitness … Continue reading →

Exercises That Burn More Calories in Less Time

With the holidays fast approaching and Old Man Winter bearing down, it’s easy to find excuses to ditch your regular workout. However, health experts say it’s a bad idea to remain inactive for a long period of time. Instead of taking an extended break from your regular fitness routine; experts say you should consider modifying your regime to include quick calorie-burning exercises that can be accomplished in a shorter amount of time. That way you can remain active over the next few weeks without putting a dent in your holiday schedule. Here are some tips on how to do so: … Continue reading →