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Tae Bo: Tae Bo 2004 Capture the Power System
LONGMONT, Colo., Sept. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Functional Innovations, LLC announces the release of the P.A.S.T.(TM) Core Training System; an award winning product that improves real-life fitness with over 100 functional exercises. The patented P.A.S.T. (Posture, Agility, Strength, and Total Body Integration) Core Training System was designed by Todd Langer, CEO of Functional Innovations and a leading health and fitness specialist, while overcoming disabling injuries, "My desire to live a pain-free life has been the driving force behind years of academic study and personal trial and error," said Langer. "What I've learned is the best results come from improving balance, posture, and core strength within a total body framework."
In recent times a high-tech revolution has changed our lifestyles, but not the way our body's are designed for movement. As such millions of people have succumbed to repetitive strain injuries and cumulative trauma disorders that gradually worsen in the face of gravity. Dr. Tom Ravin M.D., President of the American Academy Musculoskeletal Medicine, expands on this notion, "As technology increases in the age of the computer, we must make every effort to insure that the structure of the human body does not deteriorate in the process and the P.A.S.T. Core Training System is an innovative step in the right direction."
The versatile P.A.S.T.(TM) Core Training System is a standalone functional fitness system that trains total body movement patterns, not muscles in isolation; so, you're more likely to get carryover into real-life situations. The balance boards use proprietary technology to improve your standing posture and your core muscles are naturally engaged during each and every exercise. Another unique aspect is that the balance boards can be turned over and become a base where the adjustable pushup handles are inserted as a way to spruce up any Yoga and Pilates routine.
Weighing just over 5 pounds, the equipment is durable and compact; enabling you to train practically anywhere and it's become a favorite for the home workout crowd and a worthy travel companion. Functional Innovations, LLC provides free videos, online and in all downloadable formats, to make it easy for you to get the results you want without compromising your busy lifestyle.
This release was issued on behalf of the above organization by Send2Press(R), a unit of Neotrope(R). http://www.send2press.com/
Source: Functional Innovations, LLC
Web site: http://www.balance2posture.com/
by Paul Reeve
Imagine if an old friend were to confide in you about an investment that was impossible to fail...how would you react? Also suppose there was a huge amount of supporting evidence for the investment claims...wouldn't you be inclined to take advantage of the opportunity and not miss out on the rewards? Although the answer to these questions seems obvious, when it comes to investing in our health and quality of life we often choose to ignore what obviously works. Take for example, exercise...
Physical fitness may be the ultimate investment opportunity. Think of it this way. If you are willing to make the commitment (investment), you will feel and look healthier, have an abundance of energy, be more self-confident, more productive and discover a more joyous and fulfilling life. These are rewards that money cannot buy and the substance of high quality living. And, the investment of exercise becomes even more attractive when you consider that there is absolutely no down-side risk. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose. How much better can it get? How many times can you remember ever having a better offer? The honest answer is probably never, and yet many of us fail to act on this extraordinary opportunity. We simply choose to procrastinate or ignore the proven benefits of exercise!
Here are a few reasons that sometimes inhibit our willingness to "step out" and make a change or take a chance:
Sometimes our vision gets clouded. We lose tract of what is really important. Forget about the less important activities that tend to clutter our daily routine and focus on exactly what needs to be accomplished to reach your goal.
Looking at the "big" picture can seem overwhelming. And the bigger the task, the more overwhelming it can seem. Break the task apart into smaller pieces. If you want to lose 50 pounds try losing 10 pounds and repeat the process five times! Need to start an exercise program? Begin with short, simple exercises and then slowly expand your routine. Don't exercise too hard when first starting-out or you will become stiff, tired, disillusioned and soon quit.
Have you ever not wanted to start something for fear of failure? Take the first step, acknowledge the fear and the next step will come easier. Once fears are acknowledged, they usually quiet down.
Sometimes we start to think that a task is unpleasant or boring. Just like any other activity, this can also be true for exercise. There are days when we just plain lack the enthusiasm and motivation to continue. It's part of human nature. On days like these focus on 'why' you are doing it. Think about all the people you care about and who may need and rely on you. What would happen if you became ill or disabled and was unable to work for a period of time, or worse, if you were out of the picture completely. How would things change? If something happened tomorrow, how would your family or business manage without you? What do you want your life to be like in the future? There are many tasks or chores we do, that we may not like, but are necessary to live a happen and productive life. Focus on the bigger picture.
Indecision can be defeating, but doing "anything" is better than doing nothing. There are no wrong choices and very few choices that can't be undone or done again. Can't decide on a particular exercise program or routine? Pick a few exercises and start with something simple. If you don't like it, go on to the next exercise.
When you lack the confidence to start something new, take a deep breath and try to figure out why. Are you hesitating because you really lack the skill or is it just imagined? If it's real, try to find out where to gain the skills you need or find someone with the right skills who can help. In the case of exercise, finding a qualified personal fitness trainer can sometimes do the trick, but be wary...some PFT's are overzealous and tend to start newcomers on programs that are too strenuous.
Life just seems too busy to find time for some activities. Large, uninterrupted chunks of time are very hard to come by. And if we're honest, when they do come, we'd rather do something totally pleasurable! Exercise has to become part of your routine. It can't be an option. Make it a high priority just the same as your career, and other areas of interest. You will be surprised at how easy exercise becomes when approached this way!
Have you ever subconsciously (or otherwise) invited distractions so that you have a "good" reason not to get something done? Sometimes it's the simple things like answering the phone or sitting down to watch that "one" TV program, that distract us. When you find yourself doing this, take control of the situation and make a conscious decision to do what you are avoiding.
To get the full benefits of exercise, or any other fitness endeavor, you must agree to become a willing participant. This will require commitment on your part. And remember, as you embark on your mission you are investing in something near and dear to your own heart...your life and a future of healthy living.
Paul Reeve is a Personal Trainer responsible for training individuals one-on-one and assisting them in achieving their health and fitness goals and providing them with guidance, support and motivation. Presenter and lecturer for Fitness Professionals, Sports Organizations, Sport Coaches, Corporate and Community Organizations. Webmaster for http://www.treadmilladviser.com - providing informed advice on exercise treadmills. Paul Reeve may be contacted at http://www.treadmilladviser.com
by Nitin Chhoda
As human beings, we are creatures of habit. We tend to create routines that guarantee a series of small pleasures or comfort. Though routine can bring a sense of order to life in an increasingly chaotic world, it can be counterproductive when working out - following the same exercise regimen over and over not only gets boring, but can lead to exercise plateaus that can decrease your results.
Performing the same activity repeatedly at the same level makes the body more efficient, which eventually results in lower caloric expenditure from the activity. In fact, research shows that by sticking to just one activity, the number of calories burned by exercisers may decrease as much as 25 percent..
For instance, if you normally exercise for 45 minutes four days a week on a treadmill with the same intensity and time for each workout, over time you will not benefit as much as you did when you began. Your body will become accustomed to the routine, and it can become increasingly difficult for you to meet your fitness goals. The repetitiveness also can be boring - even with music, TV or a magazine for distraction, the exercise might become mundane, which also can decrease the likelihood you'll continue working out.
Fitness professionals agree the best solution to dodge exercise plateaus and workout boredom is cross training. Cross training simply means mixing together a variety of exercise activities into a varied regimen. Cross training works because of 'energy efficiency'. This means that your body becomes accustomed to a certain type of exercise after a period of time. If you mix it up, you are surprising your body, which responds by burning more calories in an effort to 'adjust' to the new exercise. For example, if you play tennis after a long time, you feel sore the next day, because it's something new for your body. As you play more often, it get's easier to adjust (time to try something new?)
Do you work out at a gym? Instead of 45 minutes on a treadmill each time, jump on a Lifecycle exercise bike for 30 minutes, then spend 15 minutes on a stairclimber. Swim one day and lift weights another. Health clubs with an extensive choice of group exercise classes make cross training a breeze; once a week try indoor cycling, step aerobics or kickboxing. Check out the newest classes emphasizing stretching and toning, such as Pilates or yoga.
Home exercisers also have options. Some treadmills can be raised for steep hill climbing one day, lowered for running flat the next. Or vary the intensity level - alternate going hard for five minutes and easy for five minutes. Premium equipment usually offers different exercise programs to help spice up your workout. Just try experimenting - even participating in a recreational volleyball or softball league can add to a well-rounded, varied workout regimen.
Clinical studies show most people plateau in their exercise programs somewhere between their sixth and eighth week. Exercisers should make sure they change their routines at least that often to maintain workout efficiency and prevent boredom. Ideally, having at least two different activities should be alternated daily or conducted within the same workout.
By taking the routine out of exercise, fitness fans can reap positive results and enjoyment from their workouts. The result - Feel better, look better - after all, variety is the spice of life.
For more information about these exercises and to get free full color exercise routines, diet plans and grocery lists, visit Best Weight Loss Programs and Toning For Women. You can train with Nitin at the Phone Fitness Trainer website Nitin Chhoda may be contacted at http://www.best-weight-loss-programs.net or nitin@totalactivation.com
by William M.
Copyright 2005 William Mackie
Fitness has evolved tremendously since the early days of round cement dumbbells and jump ropes. Now all the luxuries of home are provided for you in your workout experience, to help make it more convenient, enjoyable and have it feel less like, well, working out, as possible. Cardio machines now come equipped with numerous amenities, from personal televisions to fans. People now can seclude themselves from the rest of the world with head phones that connect to televisions’ as they workout. Strength equipment has also advanced with more user friendly resistance machines that provide every possible way in which to target a muscle.
Yes, our society has defiantly advanced, at least in terms of the equipment we use. However, some how, even with all of our technological advances we are still more over weight and obese than ever. Many people sit and wonder to themselves how could it be that movie stars can obtain and maintain such fit and beautiful bodies? They have access to much of the same technological advances as the rest of us do in our fitness centers and home equipment. After all, is it not about how much you do and not what you do? This is far from the truth; movie stars, models, performers, their just like you and me. They have cravings, they get too tired to workout and they have access to similar equipment. So again, how is it that with their hectic schedules, being constantly bombarded with rich foods, and being only human, that they can look so good, all the time! The answer is that they have access to something most people do not, a great personal trainer! I know what people will be thinking when they read this, “I can’t afford a personal trainer” or “I don’t have time to meet on a regular basis with someone.” Online personal training is the solution to much of the nations’ health problems.
Online personal training can provide people with the direction they need to help them reach their goals. They can do this with access to a certified personal trainer, but without the cost and time needed to acquire one. Online personal training is the New Era of the fitness industry and can get you where you need to be, on the fast track to a healthier more attractive body! Here’s how it works. Participants obtain access to an online training website. From their, the participant selects the plan they prefer most (prices usually increase depending on the type of program selected). Once a program is selected, a simple questionnaire is required to be filled out to determine you current health status, preferences and future goals. You are then set up with you own login screen name and password that gives you access to your programs online. The trainer will send you your workout plan periodically through email and post it on your login access online. Participants can print out their workouts, which consist of a picture of each exercises start and finish positions, written directions on how to perform each exercise and the correct order to perform each one are all provided. How many sets and reps to perform are included as well. For more detailed explanation of an exercise, clients can even access their program online and watch a video of a model demonstrating each exercise start to finish properly. Another great advantage to online training is that you have constant access to a personal trainer via email or phone, to ask questions about your program or any general health and fitness inquiries. The benefits seem endless, depending on the program one chooses, nutritional components are also supplied in different degrees. The nutrition component is based on your goals and eating habits. A licensed nutritionist supplies you with a daily meal plan and grocery list in which to choose healthy options based on your goals and health needs.
The best features’ of online training is that it is affordable, convenient and made specifically for you. You too can have the advantages of a personal trainer without the time commitment and cost. Online training truly is the New Era of Health and Fitness!
Certified Personal Trainer with a knowlege base in exercise science. We use goal setting techniques to boost effectiveness of fitness training.
William M. may be contacted at http://www.upstarttrain.com/ or upstarttraining@yahoo.com
by Gary Matthews
If I were to tell you that you could burn away as much fat as possible by sitting at your computer twiddling your fingers and toes, would you believe me? Well I sure hope you don't!
However, losing weight in the confines of your own home at your computer is not only possible, it's a reality. What I mean is that you can use the advice that's given to you through online fitness coaching to pursue a more productive way of burning off undesired fat and reach your fitness goals.
Any program, no matter how difficult or time consuming takes EFFORT. Through online coaching, anyone can receive the advice and the motivation to put 100% effort into their fitness goals. The end result whether its weight loss, toning, and muscle gain can be achieved with certainty.
It's all about saving time and money!
If you can imagine yourself with a personal trainer at the gym, receiving face to face advice, and helping you out physically with your exercise routine. Then by all means sign up to one of your local programs and off you go! There's nothing wrong with having your own personal trainer.
But the down side is that these expert trainers cost money. Some can charge $150 per hour, and many find this service so expensive to the point where their wallets are paper-thin and overdue bills are pilling up!
The cost each type of personal training (offline - meet your trainer type) varies with different levels of service and convenience, let's investigate some of these services on offer.
This has to be the least expensive due to the fact that you're already paying the club a membership fee. You could be stuck with long cues for equipment let alone the discomforting stares of fellow exercisers.
With a personal trainer, this can obviously be the most convenient provided you have some equipment at home. You might find yourself walking to the bank more often with the higher rates these "come to your home" types charge.
If you've accepted the invitation for personal training at their studio, chances are you'll be paying fees that would fit into the "pricey" category. Location is also another factor; if the studio is located further away than you can walk then it may not be convenient for you.
Furthermore, if the personal trainer has a busy schedule, you may not get the appointment times you had hoped for.
Although location and price can be inconvenient, there's no doubt that this method can be the most effective way to exercise. Sometimes, it's a case of confidence and personal preference to avoid certain situations, which may leave you embarrassed, confused or bothered.
For example, many have been pushed into taking advantage of the local gym's personal trainers. In terms of the convenience factor, it's a plus if you've signed up for a lengthy period. But you might find that sweating and stretching in front of hundreds of people just isn't your thing! Many people just can't stand that.
Diets and Personal Training are alike!
The truth has to be told here. People who start an exercise routine (with or without a personal trainer), only half will continue this good habit for long-term. The rest will have thrown in the towel within 6 months.
How surprised would you be to find out that old habits are repeated when you stop personal training?
This obviously varies from person to person but the lack of trainer support can sometimes render a person lazy to the point where they neglect their fitness... because for many it's the external motivation that provides the will to exercise and reach their goals in life.
Online fitness coaching can provide a very similar service to traditional personal training, and the costs involved are usually much lower and much more affordable for the general population.
In many situations, online consultation can be an excellent service if the trainer can deliver the right amount of motivation and supporting advice to the client. This can be seen in the case of weight loss, where many clients find weight loss a difficult task due to lack of confidence.
There are always that bunch of people who will shy away from a personal trainer because of misconceptions and stereotypes. They may fear loosing face having to hire one or be under false impression that trainers are just for athletes or bodybuilders.
This is far from the truth - a supporting hand from a trainer can go a long way for many wanting to slim down or improve their fitness levels.
Online coaching really excels when the trainer acts as a mentor and plays a supporting role to dissolve misconceptions and stereotypes about people's inability to achieve the results they're after.
* Personal coaching no matter where you or the trainer are located around the globe can help you develop the will and motivation to exercise
* Save money on travel expenses and expensive personal trainers
* You can exercise when you want discarding the need for timed exercise appointments
* Where self-motivation fails, online training can provide enough support to stick with a homemade program.
* No need to workout at a specific place designated by the trainer, take control over your workouts at home, at the gym, at work or on the road
* Sit in the comfort of your own home on your computer to receive coaching and advice
* Have your training questions and problems answered with educated responses, promptly and confidentially via email
* Allows for tremendous flexibility, especially for those who travel.
* Allows privacy for those who are intimidated by "public" personal training, such as people who don't feel comfortable with their bodies.
* The American Council on Exercise asserts that online training is an effective supplement to working one-on-one with a qualified trainer
As you weigh down the benefits of online personal training, you'll find that each method will give you substantial results provided that YOU are willing to put 100% effort into your exercise & dietary program.
Personal trainers can't do all the work for you, but they can guide you in the right direction to the point where you can observe results in weeks not years.
Whatever the interest, the choice comes down to you. Whether you're comfortable just working out with a friend, willing to spend money to see a personal trainer, or find opportunity with an online trainer, the achievements you make will be proportional to the time you put in.
Gary Matthews is the author of the popular fitness eBooks Maximum Weight Loss and Maximum Weight Gain. Please visit http://www.maximumfitness.com right now for your 'free' weight loss or muscle building e-courses.
Gary is the author of several ebooks, including "Maximum Weight Loss in Ten Weeks" - the complete ebook and time-saving solution for burning away unwanted fat, and "Maximum Weight Gain in Ten Weeks" - easy-to-use and follow techniques that serve as a guide to muscle growth without having to "live in the gym".
Visit Gary’s website at http://www.maximumfitness.com/
Gary Matthews may be contacted at http://www.maximumfitness.com
by Dave Soucy
Have you been diligently following your fitness program, yet feel your results are not as evident as they once were? Have you hit a point in your resistance training where you cannot seem to increase the weights you use? Maybe you feel a little sluggish in the gym? If any of these issues apply to you, it might be time to employ a little variety in your program.
As I have pointed out many times before, your body is a wonderful machine. What other machine gets better and stronger the more you use it? When you place your body under the stress of exercise, it adapts to that stress by becoming stronger and more efficient.
In reality, it goes through three stages in response to the stress of exercise: shock, adaptation, and staleness. Shock is your body’s initial reaction to the new stress of exercise. That muscle soreness you felt in the first couple of weeks of your program is a manifestation of shock. In the adaptation phase, your body adapts to the stress of exercise by becoming stronger and gaining endurance. You notice you are able to work out longer and use greater resistances in your routine.
Problems begin to occur though when you continue to perform the same routine after your body has fully adapted to it. Strength and endurance gains slow or stop altogether because your body no longer needs to adapt to the stress you are placing it under. This is staleness. In extreme cases, called overtraining, your performance will actually begin to suffer and you take steps backward.
How do you avoid this problem? Periodization, or regularly scheduled alterations to your program, is the key. By altering your fitness routine, you force your body to adapt to a new set of stresses. Alterations can include changing the number of reps or sets you perform, the weights that you use, the number of days per week you work a particular body part, or the exercises you do. It can even include a break of a week or two from resistance training where you focus on another activity such as biking, swimming, or running. This is called active rest and it allows your body to recuperate and prepare to face the challenge of your resistance program when you come back to it in a week or two.
As my personal training clients know, it is important to keep your body guessing. It is by consistently challenging your body in new ways that you can ensure you will continue to see positive results from your efforts.
Dave Soucy, Fitness Consultant and Certified Personal Trainer, is the owner of Perfect Fit, LLC. Dave can be reached via email at info@perfectfitonline.com, or through www.perfectfitonline.com
Dave Soucy may be contacted at http://www.perfectfitonline.com or info@perfectfitonline.com
by Dave Soucy
Guess what? Fitness and weight loss takes effort. That should be fairly obvious, but based on the amount of money people spend on 'lose weight fast with no effort' diets and products, apparently it isn't all that obvious.
How about a little straight talk here. If you want to improve your health and fitness, you are going to need to first accept the fact that it will take effort, along with a real determination that you want to make a positive change in your life. As long as you keep looking for the next quick fix, miracle diet, or amazing infomercial product, you will never reach your health and fitness goals.
The sad truth is, most people won't reach their health and fitness goals. Why? Because they refuse to make fitness a priority in their lives. People will say that they plan to make fitness a priority first thing tomorrow, or next week, or next month, or January 1st, but more often than not they are saying it to themselves to justify one more piece of cake today. Face it, if you are not ready to make your health a priority today, what makes you think you will suddenly make it a priority on some magical date in the future? Do you know anyone who has actually stuck with and succeeded at a New Year's resolution? Neither do I. Do you know why that is? Because if you are not committed enough to start pursuing your goal today, simply flipping the calendar will not suddenly endow you with that commitment.
People are willing to make adjustments and sacrifices to get some things that they want. We might add that extra half hour commute each way for a higher paying job. We adjust to the lack of sleep when a new baby arrives. We'll rearrange our schedules to make sure we don't miss the latest episode of a ridiculous 'reality tv' show. Yet, when it comes to our health, suddenly making adjustments are monumental efforts that just cannot be accomplished.
"I just do not have time to exercise."
"The kids complain if I try to cook healthy meals."
"I can't afford a gym membership or exercise equipment."
"I work hard all day and deserve to relax when I come home."
"I can't help it. I'm addicted to McNuggets."
"I'm too tired to exercise."
It is amazing that people can find extra time for their commute to a higher paying job, but cannot find the time to ward off that heart attack that could hit on the drive home from work one day at age 50. Well, without your health, that high paying job is not going to be doing you a lot of good. And you may get a good laugh from that dumb reality tv show tonight, but that won't be much consolation if you develop Type II diabetes tomorrow.
I am being blunt here for a reason. I want you to think. If you have been putting off pursuing a health and fitness program, I want you to stop and really examine why. Are your reasons truly legitimate? Do you really not have 30 minutes free anywhere in your day? Can you really not afford to spend less than $100 to get some basic equipment that could improve your quality of life? Or are you simply making excuses to justify your lack of commitment?
The time is now to stop making excuses and decide if you want to make a positive impact on your health, not only today, but in the years you have left in front of you. Close your eyes and think about where you will be in six months if you keep letting those same excuses prevent you from doing something about your health and fitness. Think about how you will feel. Think about how you will look. And don't say you'll be fine because you are going to start exercising next week, because next week you will tell yourself the same thing. Just like you did last week. And the week before that.
Now close your eyes again, except this time think about what you could look and feel like in six months if you made a commitment right now to make your health a priority. Envision yourself 20, 30, maybe 40 pounds lighter. Imagine you have increased energy. Maybe that cholesterol number might have dropped below 200 for the first time in years, or your blood pressure dropped back down to normal levels without medication. And, suddenly everyone tells you how wonderful you look. Guess what... It can really happen. As soon as you accept the fact that it will take effort, an effort that is more important than just about anything else you can do today, you will be on your way.
Dave Soucy, Fitness Consultant and Certified Personal Trainer, is the owner of Perfect Fit, LLC. Dave can be reached via email at info@perfectfitonline.com, or through www.perfectfitonline.com
Dave Soucy may be contacted at http://www.perfectfitonline.com or info@perfectfitonline.com
by Aaron Potts
When considering your options as a personal trainer, one of the very first things to decide is WHERE you are going to train your clients. The most obvious answer for most trainers is to get a job at a local fitness facility and train clients there. This is certainly an option, and one that is recommended especially in the beginning of your career. The structure and experience that you will get by working at a successful gym or fitness center is invaluable for a new personal trainer. However, there are drawbacks to working with your clients at a gym, and some clients will be unwilling or unable to workout at a local facility. Don't lose those clients by not having other options!
Working out with your clients in their homes is an option for any trainer, and by offering this option to your clients you can increase your potential client base by a dramatic number, and you may even decide to exclusively offer home personal training. In order to decide if this type of business model is for you, there are several points to consider, and they include time management, exercise modalities to be used, and business resources that are available.
Managing your time and your schedule is a critical consideration when deciding whether or not to work with clients in their homes. Unlike working at a facility, the amount of time that you need to dedicate to each client is increased, sometimes to the point of even doubling the time spent for each client session.
For example, let's use a standard one-hour training session as our business model for this discussion. Although many trainers are utilizing different training times with their clients these days, one hour is still a good time frame to use for your scheduling reference. You want to remember that as a home personal trainer, you can be on a tight deadline to get from one place to the next, so you don't want to schedule your sessions back-to-back like you can when you are working at a fitness facility.
You must also factor in your travel time to get to your client's home, as well as to get to the home of the following client, the client after that, and so on. If you live in an even reasonably populated area, you will have to allow at least 15 minutes of driving time to and from every client's home, and sometimes as much as 30 minutes per client, depending on the size of the geographic area that you train in. Using our one-hour training session as an example, just one training session can cost you as much as 2 hours of your time.
A standard 8-hour workday will now only allow you to train between 4 and 6 clients, depending on where they live in relation to your starting point, as well as in relation to each other. Your best bet whenever possible is to set up your clients in a roughly straight line, or possibly a circle that brings you back to your starting point at the end of the day. The last thing that you want to do is set up a client who lives 30 minutes north of your starting point followed immediately by a client who lives 30 minutes south of your starting point. Not only will you eat up massive amounts of time driving to and from your client's homes, but you will put serious mileage on both your car as well as your wallet at the gas station! More on that in the Business Resources section below.
The next thing to consider is the type of training that you will be doing with your clients in their homes. Unless they have a full fitness facility set up - which is rare - it is very likely that you will have to come up with ways to put them through a vigorous workout without the massive amount of equipment that is available at a full-size fitness facility. In order to put together these home workouts, you need to address the two different energy pathways that your clients will need to use during their workouts: aerobic and anaerobic.
Although many trainers are used to the massive resources available at a local gym, getting your clients a variety-filled and intense anaerobic workout in their home is actually easier than most would think. With nothing more than an exercise ball and a portable set of dumbbells, you can take your clients through the full range of motion and exertion on almost the same scale that is afforded those clients training at a gym.
If you are just starting out in the industry, or are simply used to working your clients out at a fitness facility, you should do some research on the Internet for dumbbell workouts, bodyweight workouts, functional training, and sport-specific training. Those 4 keyword combinations alone will net you hundreds of websites with free or low-cost resources that will teach you thousands of exercises that can be done with little or no equipment.
The key to getting your clients a good anaerobic workout at home is not the type of equipment that is used, or the actual amount of weight that is moved, but rather the INTENSITY of the workout. A bit of trial and error will teach you how to take a client through their paces in a safe but intense manner that will leave most people ready to call it quits in 30 minutes or less!
Taking your clients through appropriate and effective aerobic workouts can happen on many levels. The 2 obvious differences are going to be whether they get their aerobic activity during their session, or if you assign them activities to do after you leave. You could also do a combination of both, depending on the needs and the fitness level of the client.
If you are going to take your clients through an aerobic workout during their session, you can either incorporate "heart rate maintenance" exercises into the workout itself, or you can get the anaerobic exercises out of the way, and then move into an aerobic workout for the second half of the session. Just remember that if your goal is to keep your clients inside their target heart rate zone, there will be very little rest time in between exercises.
However, before you blindly go forcing all of your clients to stay inside their target heart rate zone for the entire session, consider the fitness goal of the client, and the metabolically intense benefits of structured strength training compared to a session when you just make sure they are sweating the whole time!
Another option for your client's cardio is to have them do it on their own after the end of the training session. Obviously they still need your guidance on what to do, how to track their heart rate, and how long they should perform the activity, but not all clients will actually need you to stay there and guide them during the activity.
Also, it is not uncommon for people to own a piece of cardiovascular training equipment such as a treadmill, elliptical trainer, stair-stepper, etc. Nonetheless, most clients will still need some specific guidance on how to maximize the benefits from the type of equipment that they have access to. Things like interval training, cross training, and training at different heart rate levels are all things that you should educate your clients on, especially if they are going to be doing cardio on their own.
You must also consider the business resources that you will need access to when training clients in their homes. The time factor has already been discussed, and you should also consider the daily expenses involved in this type of training model. These include equipment expenses, "on the road" expenses, and auto expenses.
Equipment expenses should be minimal. You may have an initial cost, but after your initial purchases, all of those assets are reusable. Basic items for home training include an adjustable set of dumbbells and an exercise ball at a bare minimum. It would also be a good idea to have a roll-up exercise mat, a jump rope, and any other items needed for the type of activities that your clients will be engaging in. A great cardio idea for clients training at home is boxing drills. If you were to utilize that type of training, then a decent set of protective gloves for the clients would be in order, as well as target mats that you hold for them to strike during their drills.
In all cases, the items that you own stay with you, and they are simply taken from one client's house to the next. It is a great idea to have your clients eventually buy their own gear, however, which keeps you from having to tote arm loads of equipment into and out of their houses day after day. Also, depending on the type of program you put them on, they may use some of their own equipment in between training sessions.
"On the Road" expenses include food and drinks while you are traveling. Depending on your schedule, you will be on the road anywhere from 2 to 12 hours at a time! In those cases, you will obviously need to plan healthy places to eat along the way, or keep portable meals in your vehicle each day. In any event, make sure that you consider the cost of eating away from home as part of your business expenses.
Auto expenses are potentially the biggest expense that you will have to face in order to train people at home. The wear and tear on your vehicle - although accountable on your taxes - can still be a drain on your financial resources. You have to keep your vehicle insured, fueled up, and in good working order at all times. The last thing that you want to do is be late for a client session because your car broke down, or you ran out of gas! Also, at anywhere from $1.50 to $2.50 per gallon, gas can get expensive if you put in a lot of miles every day.
As you can see, there are many considerations when deciding whether or not to train clients in their homes, and you must weigh those considerations against the benefit of being "free" from the gym trainer's normal boundaries, and instead being in charge of your own day to day business. In return, you can command higher per session fees for home training. Since you are saving your clients a lot of driving time and gym expenses, as well as giving them an opportunity to get healthy in the privacy of their own homes, it is not unheard of for a home trainer to charge $75 to $100 or more per session. Figure in scheduling issues, the exercise program that you will have your clients on, and the resources needed, and decide for yourself if this type of training program will work for your business!
Aaron Potts is a Personal Trainer and Fitness Success Coach whose customers include both consumers as well as other fitness professionals. Sign up for his free Fitness Journal at http://www.fitnessdestinations.com or visit his coaching site at http://www.ptsuccesscoach.com
Aaron Potts may be contacted at http://www.fitnessdestinations.com or info@fitnessdestinations.com
by Pamela Blackburn
The most often quoted excuse for not exercising is lack of time. However, you may be surprised to learn of another common barrier to getting fit. Read on to find out more including an ideal solution to the problem.
While there is ample evidence of the benefits of exercise, statistics reveal that two-thirds of American adults are not physically active on a regular basis and a quarter get virtually no exercise at all. This is bad news since our sedentary lifestyle is creating a ballooning health risk to our population.
The most common reason cited for not exercising is a lack of time. Exercise is just not given a high priority in people's schedules. However, a recent survey by the American Council on Exercise found another surprising result. Nineteen percent of respondents claimed that they were just too out of shape to work out.
"Gym Intimidation", or being scared to be seen in the gym, can be a powerful barrier to getting in shape. This fear is especially true when the participant views the gym as being filled with hard bodies in scanty dress. People who are not fit often believe that they need to get in shape prior to going to the gym.
Another 46 percent of those polled complained that gyms are too crowded and 11 percent said that people who attend the gym are too rude. Common complaints include not wiping down equipment, monopolization of weight machines and long, disturbing chats on cell phones.
In addition, another 21 percent pass up on going to the gym because they do not know what to do once they get there. Most said they are afraid to ask questions and get assistance.
Fortunately, gyms are not the only place to exercise. In fact, having a personal trainer come to you at your home or office is a great way to alleviate many of the common excuses attached to exercise.
Many people say they do not have time to exercise. Going to a gym requires getting dressed, driving to the gym, waiting on equipment and driving home. When a trainer comes to you, they bring all the equipment needed and your workout is planned, efficient and based on your schedule.
Secondly, there is no fear of gym intimidation when working out in your own home. Since you will not be comparing yourself to others, you can simply focus on doing your best and work at your own pace.
Every year many Americans resolve to get fit. However, research shows that more than half of people who begin exercising will drop their program within three to six months. This is where scheduling time to exercise and the accountability of having a personal trainer is very effective.
A personal trainer will help you import an exercise routine into your weekly schedule. Since they plan the design, you do not have to think about what to do but simply follow their instructions. Your trainer will hold you accountable to keeping your appointments, thus creating a higher success rate of reaching your goals. Most people are less likely to cancel their exercise time when they will be charged for it regardless.
The positive result is that the participant gets into a routine of exercising. It becomes more natural and a way of life. Becoming fit and feeling better is a benefit worth the effort!
Pamela is a Certified Personal Fitness Trainer with a passion for fitness and good health. Her certifications include Physical Fitness Specialist, Biomechanics of Resistance Training, Indoor Cycling and Focus Pad Training from the world renowned Cooper Institute in Dallas, Texas as well as Personal Trainer from the American Council on Exercise (ACE). She has competed in NPC Figure Competitions and is represented by the FAME Agency for fitness modeling.
Please visit her website for more information at http://www.pamelablackburn.com.
Pamela Blackburn may be contacted at http://www.pamelablackburn.com
6 Keys To Getting Maximum Results In Minimum Time With Home Exercise Equipment
Lose Weight-Can You Get Flat Stomach With An Electronic Muscle Stimulator?
by Tom Storms
I used to love going to the gym. The sounds, the smells, the grunts, the groans. Nothing seemed more inspiring. Then life got in the way. I got busy. Very busy.
Working with my fitness clients and athletes took up a lot of time, and frankly, I wasn’t too thrilled about taking the time to drive to the gym anymore. I do have a life, you know. Then there was the fight for parking not to mention the fact that I had to wait to use the equipment while someone else finished up his or her workout. I didn’t really like the music they played so loud I had to shout over it so my training partner could hear me, and the sales staff was constantly hounding me for referrals.
But I have to tell you about my new favorite place in the world to workout. My home studio. In fact, I like it so much that I recommend that everyone train at home if a gym membership isn’t up your alley. It’s got everything in it that I want, and everything that I need to successfully train. AND get this it didn’t cost me an arm and a leg.
Training at home has been so successful for me and some of my clients, I’ve set up an online facility that will allow me to personal train anyone in their home. You can give it a look at www.thebodymatrix.com. The greatest part about it is you don’t even need equipment if you don’t have any. Bodyweight workouts are phenomenal for conditioning and weight loss. Obviously, if your goals are more specialized, some equipment may be necessary.
Consider this. How much do you have to spend each year for a health club or gym membership? Now add up all the years you’ve gone to the gym and all the years you will go to the gym for the rest of your life. That’s a big chunk of change! When you think about it, it makes total sense to buy your own equipment and do it at home.
There’s no drive to the gym. No waiting. No annoying sales people. You can listen to the music that you want to (or put a TV in the gym for cardio training). Oh, and the best part is that it’s always open. Want to get in a good workout on Christmas day. You can.
Here’s the tricky part. You can’t just go out and buy whatever equipment seems popular on TV or in magazines. Do that and you’ll be unhappy in less than a month. You need a plan to determine what you need in the way of equipment to successfully achieve your fitness goals.
The following 6 points are MUSTS if you want to save time, money, and maximize your success in a minimum of time.
1. Define your personal fitness goals as specifically as you can. For any fitness-related goal there are a number of methods you can use to be successful, but first you have to know where you’re going. Do you want to get stronger? Do you want to build muscles? Lose weight or reduce your body fat? Increase endurance? Reduce stress? Are you preparing for a sport? All the above? Without knowing that you could end up spending more money than you need to on equipment that you’ll never fully utilize. Not to mention you may fail in your attempts to achieve your goals.
2. How much space are you willing to devote to your home gym? If you’ve only got a 5 x 5 space at home, you’re really going to have to be efficient. Don’t expect to fit large pieces of fitness equipment into such a small space. Be realistic. Maybe it’s time to clear out the room you’re using for storage or that corner of the garage that is just wasted space. Maybe you’ve got some space, but you’ll need to make your gym a little more portable so you can store it away when it’s not in use.
3. Familiarize yourself with your options on types and brands of exercise equipment. Find out what you’ll be comfortable with. Would you invest in a house or car without looking at several options or a test drive? Remember, this is an investment in you. There are all types of equipment from treadmills and crosstrainers, to selectorized weight equipment, to barbells and dumbbells. Check out equipment on the Internet or in catalogues. Stop by the exercise equipment retailers and actually see it and even try it out before you even consider buying. Believe me this is time well spent. When the time comes to discuss equipment with the appropriate person, be it a salesperson or a fitness professional, you won’t be completely in the dark when it comes to determining your wants and needs and end up buying something you hate or won’t use.
4. Consult with a fitness professional. Take advantage of a professionals “in the trenches experience” and educational background when it comes to matching your fitness-related goals with selecting the appropriate equipment for you. Again, this saves you time and money by preventing you from wasting money on useless or poorly designed equipment. You may also find that your fitness professional may have relationships with fitness equipment retailers which will allow you to buy your equipment at a discount.
5. Always buy top quality equipment from a reputable retailer. Yes, it costs more money, but as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for”. This is so true when it comes to exercise equipment. Avoid the temptation of trying to save a couple dollars by buying equipment that may not be up to your required standards. Buying top quality equipment will last you a lifetime. If you have any doubt, compare how much you have or could have spent on gym memberships over your lifetime with the cost of your new fitness equipment. I have no doubt that you will always spend less money on your home gym than you ever would by purchasing a lifetime of gym memberships.
6. Utilize local retailers as much as you can. While it may seem logical to save money by purchasing equipment online or via a catalogue, shipping charges on fitness equipment can be outrageous. You end up spending more than if you shopped at your neighborhood retailer. There is also an issue of maintenance. Even the best equipment can experience the occasional breakdown. Try getting a mail-order company to service your equipment. It’s not easy. Your local retailer can usually resolve your problems in no time at all.
There you have it. These recommendations will help you tremendously. Please keep in mind that it’s just not as easy as it seems, but it is worth the extra time especially when you’re making such a serious investment in yourself. That’s why I encourage you to seek the help of a fitness professional.
If you’re sick, you go to the doctor. If you’ve got a tax problem, you see an accountant (or an attorney!). Have a toothache? You’re off to the dentist. Leaky pipes result in a call to the plumber. So why is it that so many people attempt to solve their health and fitness problems without consulting an expert? I don’t know exactly, but I encourage you to make the investment in yourself – in your quality of life – by hiring a qualified professional to educate you and help you get started.
If I can be of any assistance to you, please don’t hesitate to call me. I’m happy to speak with you and give you my recommendations without any sales pressure (I hate it when people try to “sell” me, so I wouldn’t try that on you).
Please visit my web site at www.personaltrainingfitness.com and subscribe to my newsletter, or call me to schedule an appointment at (775) 224-7155 to obtain any additional information you may need. Thank you.
Yours in good health, Tom Storms, CPT, Personal Trainer, Fitness Consultant www.personaltrainingfitness.com (775) 224-7155 info@personaltrainingfitness.com
P.S. If you would like a FREE consultation to determine your fitness equipment needs don’t hesitate to call me. I’d be happy to help you. If you purchase some home fitness equipment, I’ll also give you a FREE consulting session to introduce you to your new home fitness equipment.
NOTE: This publication is not intended for use as a source of medical advice. You should obtain medical advice from your private healthcare practitioner. Before beginning any exercise or dietary program, consult with your physician to ensure that you are in proper health and that this or any exercise or dietary program will not put you at risk.
Tom Storms is a nationally certified personal trainer / fitness consultant from the American Counsel on Exercise. Tom has been training private clients full time for the last 12 years. Specializing in online personal training from his web site; www.personaltrainingfitness.com, Tom offers his services and resources worldwide.
Tom Storms may be contacted at 4370 Reggie Rd or tom@personaltrainingfitness.com
by Lynn Bode
There’s been a lot of buzz recently about Interval Training. So, you may be wondering what it really is and, more importantly, why you should incorporate it in your fitness workouts. Well, if you want a workout that can help propel you to the next fitness level, burn more calories, increase your speed, improve your power and more, then it’s time to learn more about this effective technique.
A simple definition of Interval Training is: short, high-intensity exercise periods alternated with periods of rest. These higher and lower intensity periods are repeated several times to form a complete workout. Here’s a basic example: walk for 5 minutes at 3.5 MPH, walk for 1 minute at 4.2 MPH and then repeat this sequence several times.
Most people spend their workout time only performing continuous training exercises. These are exercises where the intensity level is basically constant throughout. An example of this is walking at 3.5 MPH, at 0% incline for 30 minutes.
Continuous training is very effective and should not be eliminated from your weekly workouts. However, it’s recommended that you include both Interval Training and continuous training sessions as part of your fitness regimen.
Why should you include Interval Training? As previously mentioned, there are many benefits to this type of training and execution is relatively simple. Interval Training can help you improve cardiovascular fitness, increase speed, improve overall aerobic power, burn more calories, break-through a plateau, increase workout duration, reach new exercise levels, expand your workout options and increase your workout threshold – just to name a few.
Plus, this training method has useful applications for beginners, intermediate exercisers and even conditioned athletes. There are two basic types of Interval Training. For the majority of exercisers (novices and intermediate) Fitness Interval Training methods are recommended. Athletes can choose a more advanced technique known as Performance Interval Training.
The Fitness training method utilizes periodic increases in intensity. Typically the higher-intensity levels range from 2-5 minutes in duration and are followed by lower-intensity periods that also range from 2-5 minutes. And, a critical element in Fitness Interval Training is determining the appropriate level for the higher-intensity periods. This level should not exceed the anaerobic threshold (which is usually reached below 85% heart rate reserve).
On the flip side, the Performance training technique involves periods of near maximal or even maximal intensity (e.g. >85% heart rate reserve – even reaching 100%). The higher-intensity levels can range from 2-15 minutes in duration and are followed by lower-intensity periods that also can range from 2-15 minutes in duration.
Don’t let the two types of training and their ranges confuse you. Incorporating Interval Training methods into your exercise routine is actually quite easy. Since the majority of exercisers fall into either the beginner or intermediate category, we’ll focus on getting started with those techniques.
To begin, choose the type of exercise: walking, jogging, swimming, biking, etc. Next determine your lower-intensity level. This is usually somewhere between 50-65% target heart rate. This will be your baseline, lower-level intensity. Then simply increase the intensity-level up to where you feel like you are working hard to very hard, but avoid reaching a level over 85% target heart rate. If monitoring your heart is not feasible, instead use the RPE scale where 1 is basically at rest and 10 is working extremely hard. For example, if you find that when you are exercising at a comfortable level you rank a 5, then bump up to a 7 for the higher-intensity intervals.
You may choose to systematically raise and lower your intensity (e.g. 2 minutes lower intensity followed by 1 minute higher intensity and repeat) or you can alternate more randomly by raising and lowering the level at your discretion. To increase your intensity, you may choose to change the speed, incline, or some other variable.
Interval Training can be especially helpful in situations where you are trying a new form of exercise. For example, this can be very beneficial when first learning to jog. If you attempt to jog continuously without building up to it, you will probably fatigue quickly and even give up. However, if you begin with intervals of walking interspersed with jogging periods, the workout will be much more enjoyable and effective. Also, you will be more likely to stick with the program and achieve the end result – continuous jogging.
Now that you know the benefits of Interval Training and the basic techniques for it, why not give it a try for yourself? Not only will it provide health benefits and improved fitness levels but it is also a great way to avoid workout boredom. Plus, with Interval Training workouts often are more enjoyable, go by quicker, and improvement results come faster. So why not try spicing up a stale, run-of-the-mill workout with Interval options? You may even find yourself excelling in an activity you were skeptical of even trying.
Lynn Bode is a certified personal trainer specializing in Internet-based fitness programs. She founded Workouts For You, which provides affordable online exercise programs. Visit: http://www.workoutsforyou.com for a free sample workout. Fitness professionals improve your business, visit: http://www.trainerforce.com
Lynn Bode may be contacted at http://www.workoutsforyou.com
by Logan Rokwild
When you are setting up a gym in your home, you will need about ten basic pieces of equipment to make it successful. If you are setting one up for a male, you will probably want to make sure some of the weights are heavier to meet their needs. First, you will want a 50llb dumbbell set. A good dumbbell set which includes a set of 5llb, 8llb and 12llbs dumbbells. Dumbbells are essential in toning any body because they create lean, defined muscles which give you a sleek look as well as help burn more calories. You also are going to need a barbell set. Barbell sets are good to go along with dumbbell sets because they target different areas of the muscle, giving you an all around better workout. To help you with your weight lifting, you can purchase a pair of weight lifting gloves, which will allow you to have a better grip on the bar, as well as protect your hands from calluses.
Now that you've got all your weight's set up, you are going to need something to work out on. If you're budget allows, you can purchase a weight bench, which allows you to do exercises of all kinds. However, if you can't afford to buy a weight bench, you can buy an aerobics step, which allows you to do many of the same exercises. You can also use an exercise ball to do your exercises on, which is very popular because they help increase balance, and core strength. After you are done your work out, you need to stretch, so a mat would be useful so you avoid rug burn, as well as bruising you're spine. These are the basic necessities for any home gym, but if you find you're self wondering what exercises to do after you've got you're gym set up, you might want to purchase a workout book as well.
Logan writes about various topics.
Logan Rokwild may be contacted at
by Chris Chew
You have probably seen plenty of advertisements extolling how Electronic Abdominal Stimulators can melt your belly fat fast and quickly. Most of these advertisements will also claim that their electronic abs stimulators can also flatten your tummy to reveal your six pack abs muscle. They even claim that by using electronic abs stimulators for X minutes is better that 300 sit ups or crunches, so you can say bye bye to diets and exercise forever. Too good to be true?
On the other hand, you may also have come across many articles and messages from the health and fitness industry or from your fitness personal trainers who refute the advertisers claiming that the only way to get a flat tummy with well defined six pack abs muscle is through healthy eating and exercise. Now that is hard work isn't it? So you will rather take a chance with an electronic abs stimulator won't you?
So who is telling the truth? Ok, instead of joining in the controversy, this article points out what the authorities such as U.S. Food and Drug Administration has got to say. Below is an excerpt from U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA Consumer magazine July-August 2002. You can read the full report at http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2002/402_abs.html :-
"In May, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed complaints against three manufacturers of these devices, alleging that they have made false claims in their advertising, seen in heavily aired infomercials on national cable television, shorter television commercials, and ads in the print media.
The unfounded claims cited by the FTC include the promise of "six pack" or "washboard" abs without exercise, claims that the devices will give users a trimmer waist or cause fat loss, and that use of the device is equivalent to (or better than) regular abdominal exercises, such as sit-ups or crunches. The FTC complaints also allege that the advertising claimed falsely that the stimulators are safe for all to use, and did not disclose adequately the possible health hazards for some people.
Q. Why does the FDA regulate electrical muscle stimulators?
A. Electrical muscle stimulators are considered medical devices under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Under this law and the agency's regulations, the FDA is responsible for regulating the sale of all electrical muscle stimulators in the United States. Therefore, firms must comply with appropriate FDA premarket regulatory requirements before they can legally sell their stimulators. Most electrical muscle stimulators (EMS devices) that have been reviewed by the FDA are intended for use in physical therapy and rehabilitation under the direction of a health-care professional. If a company wants to sell EMS devices directly to consumers, the company needs to show the FDA that the device can be used safely and effectively in that setting.
Q. These electrical muscle stimulators are advertised not only to tone, firm, and strengthen abdominal muscles, but also to provide weight loss, girth reduction, and "rock hard" abs. Do they really work?
A. While an EMS device may be able to temporarily strengthen, tone or firm a muscle, no EMS devices have been cleared at this time for weight loss, girth reduction, or for obtaining "rock hard" abs.
Q. Is the FDA concerned about the unregulated marketing of these devices?
A. Yes. The FDA has received reports of shocks, burns, bruising, skin irritation, and pain associated with the use of some of these devices. There have been a few recent reports of interference with implanted devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators. Some injuries required hospital treatment. The FDA is also concerned because many of these devices have cables and leads. If those cables and leads do not comply with electrical safety standards, there is the possibility that users and other household members could be electrocuted. The FDA is currently investigating firms that are illegally marketing EMS devices.
Q. What does FDA regulation accomplish?
A. Before they may legally sell their devices, firms that market EMS devices must be able to demonstrate that these products are as safe and as effective as similar devices that are legally marketed. Devices may be marketed only for uses that are established for the device or for uses that the firm can support with data. At this time, the FDA is not aware of scientific information to support many of the promotional claims being made for numerous devices being widely promoted on television, infomercials, newspapers, and magazines.
Q. Does that mean that it's unsafe to use an electrical muscle stimulator that has not met FDA requirements?
A. Using a product that has not met FDA requirements isn't necessarily unsafe or dangerous. But it could be. Unregulated devices also may have safety problems associated with cables and leads that can lead to accidental shock and electrocution of users and other household members, including children.
Q. If I use an electrical muscle stimulator, will it give me the same kind of effect that lots of sit-ups, stomach crunches and other abdominal exercises will?
A. Using these devices alone will not give you "six-pack" abs. Applying electrical current to muscles may cause them to contract. Stimulating muscles repeatedly with electricity may eventually result in muscles that are strengthened and toned to some extent but will not, based on currently available data, create a major change in your appearance without the addition of weight loss and regular exercise."
Now, who is telling the truth about electronic muscle stimulator being able to melt tummy fat and reveal your six pack abs? Well, you be the judge and come to your own verdict.
Chris Chew is a Fitness Personal Trainer based in Singapore. His clients are made up of pageant winners, TV personalities, actors and international models. For more info and free fitness tips, check out his website at http://www.sgfitness.com and http://www.sgfitnessonline.com
Chris Chew may be contacted at http://www.sgfitness.com or chris@sgfitnessonline.com
by mansi gupta
It's a healthy body that can home a healthy mind. Fitness has been one of the prime considerations for the humans for ages. Several fitness programs have been developed for different kinds of works and sports. There are several procedures that can be devised and executed to tone the body muscles. They include running, weightlifting, exercise etc. These entire have different out comes and they require different level of skill and stamina. One of the basic requirements before going in for training is that of a good trainer. It is a great risk to try out the workouts by oneself. Every exercise has a different position and posture which when tempered with can result into sever damage to the body tissue.
One of the basic components of a fitness program is weight training. It is the systematic lifting of weights to strengthen and tone specific parts of the body. The nuances of this include the different weights, having proper attire for lifting weights etc. For example the gloves must be worn before going for high-end weights as it may cause corns in the palms and they also provide a good grip on the bars of the weights. The weight lifts are customized for different sports. Some sports like discuss throw or hammer throw require much more weightlifting then the lighter sports such as table tennis.
Gymnasium is a favorite place for aspiring athletes and fitness conscious people. The number of equipments in the gym can be really enticing and inviting for the work out. But it has to be kept in mind that not all devices are ones cup of tea. The requirement of a trainer is a prerequisite here too. Basically there are two categories of equipment found in a gym, the machines and the free weights. They both cater to different parts of the body and have different ways to execute. The machines are better in a way that they have meters in them which tell the extent of workout that a person has undergone. This helps the athlete keep a track of his stamina.
Work out is also required by certain kinds of patients to keep up their body in shape to defend the attacks. Especially in case of patients suffering from cardiovascular ailments the doctors suggest a set pattern of workout to provide strength to the heart muscles. These are light exercises for example brisk walking, lifting lightweights.
Another major component for a fit body is the dietary schedule. It is the intake of recommended food while one is undergoing a fitness program. Excessive intake of fats during fitness tenure can make the whole procedure futile. The dietician, who in most cases is also the fitness trainer, provides a list of proper foods to supplement and support the body's work out. The food is a combination of solids and fluids. They, in which ever forms are, must be able to fulfill the bodily requirements of structural components. They must be rich in carbohydrates for the energy purposes and proteins to build the body tissues.
Fitness is fast becoming a very important characteristic of the human beings. The heavy work schedules and the long working hours require a person to be mentally and physically fit to take the toll of such work. So don't forget to include a fitness schedule in your work schedule.
Mansi gupta writes about Guide to a Fit Body .
mansi gupta may be contacted at or mansigup@gmail.com
Trunz-Carlisi, Elmar. Practical Muscle Training. Barnes and Noble Books: New York (2003).
Wade, Jennifer. Personal Training: Individual Fitness Programs & Training Plans for Every Body Type. Sterling: New York (1998).
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