Outdoor vs. Indoor Workouts

I sometimes wonder whether I prefer indoor or outdoor workouts. Where I live, weather isn’t usually a major factor. I guess it depends on what my schedule is like, how motivated I am, and if I am working out with someone. Outdoor Workouts I enjoy outdoor workouts because I love fresh air. Hiking and biking are great ways to get moving and see the world around. Hiking especially is a passion of mine because I love nature, especially tress and animals. Biking I also enjoy because you can go far in a short time. Walking can be a convenient workout … Continue reading

Back-to-School = Back to Regular Workouts

In a matter of days (if it hasn’t occurred already) your household will get back to “normal.” Meaning that the kids will be back in school and you can resume your “regular” exercise routine. For those of you who don’t have an existing fitness regime, the prospect of having your kids in school for six hours a day allows you to devote some time to working out. Seize the moment. Now that you have the time, make the most of it. Studies show that lack of time is the No.1 reason people say they don’t workout. Time is critical in … Continue reading

I is for Indoor Cycling

Indoor workouts are a great thing – especially during inclement weather. Spring, summer, winter or autumn, you can perform your indoor workouts no matter how hot, cold, rainy or otherwise the weather is outside. Indoor cycling isn’t just for people looking to work out, but also for athletes looking to maintain their fitness throughout the year – particularly cyclists – in the off season. Cardiovascular ExerciseLeg Strength Regular indoor cycling will build strength in your legs as well as in your cardiovascular system. Cycling engages every leg muscle as well as your glutes to a point. Regular sessions of cycling … Continue reading

The Fitness Blog Week in Review June 9 – June 15

It’s been a long week here, my daughter got over a bad bout with a fever last week and I’ve spent most of the week trying not to come down with it myself. Unfortunately, I haven’t been very successful. Let’s take a good look at the week in review before I take a day of ease on Saturday. Saturday, June 9 Hot summer days are not always conducive to outdoor exercise. When temperatures cruise upwards of 95 degrees, it may be time to investigate Indoor Workouts. Sunday, June 10 Does School-Based Fitness Fade Over the Summer? There is some speculation … Continue reading

Indoor Workouts

It’s summer out there and let me tell you, it’s here hot and sticky. The temperatures are soaring up into the 90s and the air is so thick, you could cut it with a knife. The last thing I want to do is go out and try to power walk in hot, sultry soup – so let’s take a look at some indoor workouts we can do. Walking is the Number 1 Choice I read a study yesterday that stated walking is the number 1 choice, by far, for most individuals. This is hardly surprising. On another website, a poll … Continue reading

The Fitness Blog: Week in Review – Sept 23-29

Fitness Blog’s: The Week in Review Sept 23-29 It’s been a terrifically busy week here in the Fitness blog and you’d think after 10 months of talking about fitness, I’d be tired of it, but I’m far from that date. We’re winding September down and we’re heading into October. Be sure to check out the September End of the Month Fitness Goal Check today and be back here tomorrow to start our run on October fitness. We’re going to talk a lot about Women’s Fitness in October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the meanwhile, here’s a review … Continue reading

Doing Some Floor Exercises While Watching TV

One of my favorite things to do while I am watching TV is to do some toning exercises. Sometimes on a really packed and tiring day I only have a half hour to get in some exercise. While cardio would be my first option to spend that time, sometimes I am too exhausted. Instead of just sitting in front of the TV, I’ve come up with a small workout routine that focuses on toning. Before beginning a floor workout, it is a good idea to warm-up. I enjoy doing jumping jacks or jogging in place for five minutes. For stomach … Continue reading

Getting Back Into Trail Running

Today I went for a power hike that turned into a trail run. I started my workout with hiking over half a mile. After power hiking, I jogged for as long as I felt comfortable about fifteen minutes, then eased into some intervals of power hiking and sprinting spurts. Trail running to me is like taking your hike to the next level. You push yourself harder and blast calories faster. However, because of this it is harder on your body. Trail running is a great outdoor workout. If you like to run in your neighborhood and you like nature, trail … Continue reading

Pros and Cons to Elliptical Machines

I am a pretty big of my elliptical machine. I have a NordicTrack, found at most exercise stores and department stores that carry exercise equipment (such as Sears). Although the elliptical machines are one of my favorite workout machines, like with any machine, there are pros and cons. Pros One pro to an elliptical, whether at the gym or at your home, is that it is an indoor workout. Indoor workouts are convenient when the weather outside is less than desirable. Indoor workouts can also be safer. Instead of running outside where you have to deal with terrain, the elliptical … Continue reading

Staying Motivated While Using an Elliptical Machine

I started using an elliptical machine when I was a teenager. Now I am on my second machine and I still love it. Elliptical machines are a great addition for your at-home gym. They can seem a bit pricey but they last 5-10 years. The best thing is that it is great for days when you don’t want to workout outside. My elliptical has a built-in fan that is especially useful for hot days. Here are some ideas to keep you motivated while working out on your elliptical machine. This can be applied to other indoor cardio machines as well. … Continue reading