If your time is spread thin and completing a full-length exercise session isn’t possible, accumulate 30 minutes of moderate physical activity throughout the day. Walk the dog for 10 minutes at a brisk pace in the morning. Vigorously clean the house in the afternoon for 10 minutes. And dance or actively play with the children for 10 minutes in the evening. Fit in what you can, when you can. Look for opportunities to get in short bursts of activity because it all adds up. (more…)
July 9, 2012
July 5, 2012
‘Heart’y Motivation
According to the National Sporting Goods Association, running and jogging participation increased by 7.6 percent from 2000 to 2001, with 24.5 million Americans now participating in the sport. It’s not surprising to me that running has gained so much in popularity. I started running in the mid-’80s, and I remember thinking at the time that “this couldn’t possibly be good for me: all this pounding on my joints, and it is darn hard!” But my running partner convinced me to keep it up, and he increased my running distances from 1 mile to 2, 3 and so forth. Today, I run, on average, five days per week, and train for at least two marathons per year. When I miss a run, I feel out-of-shape and depressed. But, there are also times when I don’t really feel like running, either. At those times, I’ve often realized that the problem is a lack of cross-training; I’m simply doing the same thing again and again. I get into a rut by running the same distances, running the same pace and even running the same courses. What I need is variety to spice up my training. (more…)
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April 19, 2012
Take a Peek at a Yoga Class
To learn proper yoga techniques, it is important to find an instructor who has been certified by a yoga school and knows how to work with people with your type of arthritis. Ask a health professional for a referral. (more…)
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March 27, 2012
February 9, 2012
Bush Chooses Next Surgeon General
President Bush nominated Tucson, Ariz., trauma surgeon Dr. Richard Carmona to be his next surgeon general, elevating a former high school dropout and “poor Hispanic kid” to the brink of the nation’s highest healthcare post. Bush cited Carmona’s expertise in preparing for terrorist attacks and other emergencies as a principal reason for his choice. He also was impressed by Carmona’s resume, which includes stints as a Green Beret and SWAT team member, as well as a pair of daring rescues. (more…)
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January 9, 2012
Member Orientation Breeds Success
By implementing a new level of member orientation, Cooper Fitness Center (CFC) was able to increase member satisfaction, personal training revenues and employee management skills, all in one fell swoop. (more…)
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November 3, 2011
A Word About Water
Water is essential for good health, especially during the hot summer months. Physical activities during the summer often leave us dehydrated, exhausting our body’s supply of water. Yet many of us exist on soft drinks, sports drinks, or alcoholic drinks (many with hidden calories) to keep us cool and refreshed. (more…)
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October 19, 2011
Stretches That Can Enhance A Surfer’s Flexibility Part 5
Calf and Achilles Tendon Stretch: Stand in front of a sturdy vertical object, with the right foot on the floor with the toes pointing forward and the knee slightly bent. The right foot is less than 6 inches from the object. The left foot is 18 inches to the left and 12 inches behind the right foot. The left knee is slightly bent and facing forward. Bend both legs with the spine held straight until a stretch is felt in the tendon above the left heel. Maintain this position for 20 seconds, then move the right foot forward and the left knee six to12 inches back. Straighten the left knee and bend the right knee more, until a stretch is felt in the calf muscles below the knee. Maintain this position for 20 seconds, then repeat with the other leg. Do each stretch at least twice on each leg. (more…)
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October 12, 2011
Stretches That Can Enhance A Surfer’s Flexibility Part 4
Prone One Leg Towel Quadricep Stretches: Lay prone on a pad on the ground. Wrap a towel around the left foot at the instep or front of the toes. Put the knee of the left leg next to the knee of the right leg. Pull on the towel with both hands to bend the left knee, while relaxing the front of the thigh. Maintain this position for 20 seconds, then switch legs and repeat. Do each leg at least twice. (more…)
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October 5, 2011
Stretches That Can Enhance A Surfer’s Flexibility Part 3
Hip Stretches: Pick one of the first two stretches, one of the other three.
Seated Groin Stretch: Sit on the floor with the back against the wall. The soles of the feet meet on the ground in front of the groin with the knees pointing out. Push down on the knees with the hands, while keeping the elbows close to the side of the body and the neck and Trapezius muscles are kept relaxed. Relax the inner thigh muscles so they can be stretched for 20 seconds. Repeat at least twice. (more…)
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