Tired of weights and treadmills? Dance to get fit!

Fitness doesn’t have to be about hauling weights and pounding treadmills. Instead of grunting and aching their bodies into shape, some happy souls strengthen the core by tripping the light fantastic. And many experts believe that the current craze for all things dance is fueled by television. Read more

Strong shoulders are a joint effort

Try to imagine how many movements and activities you make with your hands during a typical day. It would be impossible to count the times you lift, touch, push, pull, twist or gesture. Now consider the fact that for every one of these movements, your shoulder joint and shoulder girdle are called into action to position your arm and hand properly, and to generate force, or at least stabilize against the loads present. Needless to say, this is a part of the body that we don’t want to neglect. Read more

A debilitating disease that is often unknown

Mimi Winsberg never knew that the energy bars and pasta that sustained her during endurance training were also making her ill. She had completed dozens of triathlons and marathons, but four years ago, when she was in her late 30s, her health and athletic performances rapidly and inexplicably spiraled downward. Read more

The crosstrainer elliptical machine is useless for fat loss

If you are using an elliptical-type machine for intervals, then I believe that you are not getting the results you deserve. In my opinion, the elliptical machines are one of the least effective methods for losing fat – just as bad as spinning classes. Now you might know someone that is uses the elliptical all the time and is lean. But I will be the farm that they can thank their genetics, their strength training, and their nutrition for their results. I have yet to see someone transform their physique with the elliptical trainer. In fact, when someone comes to me with a failing program, I often see them using the elliptical for their interval training. And that’s the first things I change. Read more

Programs and facilities designed just for kids

You already know that kids in the U.S. are getting fatter. And, you know that many fitness centers are reaching out to this market to help improve the health of these children, and the country as a whole. Three fitness centers, in particular, are offering programs to help children stay fit, lose weight and improve body image – all in a fun atmosphere! This summer, the Mid-Island Y Jewish Community Center, Plainview, N.Y., is offering a new summer camp called Tween Adventures in Fitness. It is designed specifically for boys and girls ages 11 to 13 who want to achieve a healthy lifestyle and body image, says Marketing Director Amy R. Manheim. Read more