Just to be clear from the start: there is not one single aspect of strength training that will suit everybody. Free weights and dumbbells, as well as machines, will help you gain strength, the effects varying by person. Also, remember that other options exist, such as elastic bands or lifting one’s weight. Strenght training options […]
training
Turning the pedometer into an ally along the way
Besides the obvious usefulness offered by pedometers, also known as step counters, and other wearable activity devices, quantifying your workouts can help you stay motivated. Here are a few basic guidelines to purchase one of these devices. A frequently asked question when starting out is whether the activity is enough to produce the expected results. […]
Health Tip: get stronger with just one set
For most people, one series of 12 repetitions with the right amount of weight can help them gain strength and improve physical fitness as effectively as multiple series of the same exercise. The one-series method is also more effective time-wise, which makes it easier to incorporate into a routine. Different health organizations recommend introducing strength […]
Can I build up strength through isometric exercise?
Isometric exercises are contractions o a very specific muscle or group of muscles. During these types of exercise the muscle doesn’t appear to change in length while the joint involved doesn’t move. Isometric exercise isn’t a particularly effective way of gaining strength, but it will help you to maintain it (this is why it’s often […]
Choosing the right shoes for walking
Given the fact that feet play a critical role in countless physical activities, choosing the right shoe is essential if you want to enjoy your workout, prevent injury and obtain the best results. Buying the right walking shoes is not a trivial matter, even if it may seem like it. The first thing is to […]
Should I work out if I have a cold?
The truth is you don’t necessarily have to stay away from mild to moderate exercise if you have a regular cold and no fever. In fact, physical activity may even help you fight congestion by opening your nasal airways. physical activity may even help you fight congestion by opening your nasal airways. As a rough […]
What if I get stuck at the same weight?
Although it may seem hard to believe, it’s actually quite normal for the scales to get stuck at a certain number and decide to stay there, after a lengthy period of dieting and noticeable progress. Don’t worry; the program didn’t suddenly stop working. So-called weight-loss plateaus are a natural part of the process, and that’s […]
Eating healthy is important, especially if you work out
If you have a favorite athlete, you already know that when and what to eat can make a huge difference, whether working out or during competition. Diet and physical activity go hand in hand and are mutually related, for better or worse. If you prefer working out in the morning, you should have breakfast at […]
Is pulling my own body weight a good way to strength train?
The short answer is yes. Lifting your own body can be an effective method to strength train, and a good complement to your exercise routine. The effects of using your own body weight as resistance training can be just as effective as working out with free weights and machines. After all, the concept is the […]
Health Tip: training before going to bed
Did you know that moderate exercise reduces stress, anxiety and, normally, improves the quality of sleep? However, some people do experience difficulty falling asleep a few hours after exercising. The key is to realize that each person is different, and that training in the evening doesn’t pose any problem whatsoever to others. Some people do […]