Exercise RSS

Everyone has encountered exercisers who seem to think they are the only ones at the gym. While you can’t control the behavior of others, you can do your best to follow gym etiquette rules and set a good example. Over time, your politeness and consideration may rub off on others. Be timely You might think that slipping into a group exercise class late is harmless, but it can disrupt both the instructor and fellow members. Missing the warm-up and any special instruction at the start of class can also put you at risk for injury. Out of respect for everyone...

You want to make the most of every workout, so what should you do first -- cardiovascular exercise or strength training? There are arguments and research to support both sides, leading most experts to determine that it depends both on your goals and your personal preference. Cardiovascular Endurance If your goal is to improve cardiovascular endurance, especially if you are training for a distance race, doing cardio exercise first may be the best choice. Starting your cardio with fresh muscles will help you push through the time or distance you need to accomplish. Glycogen stores (glucose stored in the muscles...

Strong shoulders not only give your upper body a sculpted, fit appearance, they also play a role in good posture. It’s important that your shoulder exercises target each of the three areas of the muscle -- the front of the shoulder (anterior deltoids), the middle of the shoulder (medial deltoids) and the back of the shoulder (posterior deltoids). These three exercises are easy to incorporate into your strength training routine for balanced shoulder workout. Overhead Press Seated on a Stability Ball (Anterior and Medial Deltoids) Sit on a stability ball with your feet flat on the floor. Use your core...

Flexible muscles and joints allow you to move more easily without pain and stiffness. Everything from daily activities to intense workouts are made easier by improving flexibility. Make this important fitness component a priority by taking time to stretch every day. Hold these stretches for at least 20 seconds and perform each two to three times. Full Body Reach and Bend Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Extend your arms straight overhead. Reach your hands to the sky and hold. Lean towards the right, bending slightly at the waist. Hold the stretch here so that you feel it from your...

When gaining strength and improving fitness, it is not uncommon to hit a plateau. Don’t let it discourage you. Here are a few ways to break through and continue making progress. Switch To Circuits If you use a traditional style of weight lifting with strength moves followed by rest periods, your body may have adapted to this type of training. Incorporate weight lifting circuits into your routine and create a challenging pace for your workout. Choose eight to ten exercises that work major muscle groups. Perform one set of the first exercise and then move quickly to the next without...