For some, the thought of the holidays brings a sense of dread…hard to believe it is almost that time again. Then for others it brings a sense of cheer. But like it or not, they will be here before you know it. How do I know? I am already seeing Christmas decorations. Wow, can’t we at least get through Halloween first? So that means we will be faced with holiday eating temptations yet again. How did you manage last year? Did you hold up or did you buckle? I think it’s important that when it comes to fitness, we not … Continue reading →

I will admit that I don’t particularly enjoy a cardio workout. I prefer standing still movements, like plies or on the floor exercises. The truth is that I’m not a fan of intense (or even moderate) movement. But I force myself to do it (although, not as much as I should). The reason is because cardio has so many benefits. First of all, it helps with weight loss. It gives you more energy and can reduce stress levels. But it also has tremendous health benefits, such as reducing your risk of chronic diseases. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that … Continue reading →

Lately I have been hearing the phrase “curvy” used more and more. Some say it is just a kind way of saying you are fat. But others believe its time to bring back the old-fashioned way of referring to someone who has an hourglass shape. I think it’s important to get one thing straight. Not everyone is supposed to be skinny. Curves in themselves aren’t bad. But one area that needs to be addressed is the middle. Belly fat is extremely unhealthy and increases the risk of serious diseases such as cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Although … Continue reading →

It is “Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” so let’s focus on the benefits of exercise. Studies have shown that there is a reduction in mortality and recurrence for those who participate in regular exercise. The problem is that despite this, too many breast cancer patients don’t keep active. Sometimes it is for physical reasons, the toll of treatment on the body and feeling tired. Other times it is emotional, just not having the motivation to get moving. This is where supervised exercise programs can help, which many hospitals and medical centers offer. The problem is that once the program has ended, … Continue reading →

Pregnancy doesn’t have to be a time in which you become a couch potato, eat everything in sight and gain more weight than necessary. Maintaining a fitness regime or even starting one up after becoming pregnant is important. Some people think that exercising while pregnant is dangerous. It can be if done incorrectly. This is why it’s always a good idea to first talk with your doctor. You may have certain restrictions or exercises that should be avoided. But for the most part, anything goes. Some exercises are particularly beneficial when you are pregnant. This includes walking, weight training, swimming, … Continue reading →

I have heard many women complain that they don’t have the time to exercise. They work, take care of their home and families. There aren’t enough hours in the day to do all that you want to do. But I think the key here is what you “want” to do. How about what you “should” do? I want to do a lot of things. I want to finish the cross-stitch project I have been working on for three years now. I want to take a weekend away with my husband. I want to put aside one day a month to … Continue reading →

Fitness isn’t a one time deal. You don’t try it one day and suddenly develop a habit or lifestyle of fitness. Rather, fitness is more like a journey. Think about journeys you have taken in life. First, consider a literal journey you have gone on. It usually consists of a lot work preparing for it. You have to plan, prepare and pack. By the time you are done, you are almost wiped out. Fitness tends to start off this way. You plan what you will do, you try and prepare your body and you pack on some exercises…only to find … Continue reading →

There are all sorts of gadgets out there which help in tracking your physical activity. Bands you can wear on your wrists and apps on your phone are just some of them. Of course, you can always do it the old-fashioned way, with a notebook and pen. No matter which method you choose, there are some real benefits to keeping track. First, it helps you to put together a plan that works best for you. After you have tracked your activity levels, you can usually get a good feel for the time of day in which you might be more … Continue reading →

While there are some things you should always do when it comes to fitness, there are many things you shouldn’t. I talk a lot about starting off small, working your way into an exercise program and changing things up. But today we are going to look at some things you shouldn’t do. For instance, you should never skip breakfast. Experts have been saying it for years. It is one of the most important meals of the day. It can provide just the energy you need, as it kick starts your metabolism. I like to exercise in the morning but I’m … Continue reading →

So you’re ready to get off your duff and get moving? You might feel a bit overwhelmed about developing a fitness plan…but you don’t have to be. First, write down your plan. I prefer to type mine up. There is something about seeing your plan in writing that makes it easier to stick to. My current plan looks this way: Monday – Cardio- Tuesday – Arms Wednesday – Core Thursday – Legs Friday – Core Your plan could look very different. You may have instead, the days you will go to the gym, the days you will walk or whatever … Continue reading →