The following article from Simon Oldmann explains the benefits of elliptical trainers. I believe they are a great addition to any athlete's training, and can help reduce overuse injuries.
==========================
Elliptical Trainer from New Balance by Simon Oldmann
The New balance Elliptical trainer not only offers an
incredible cardio work out, it is also offers a low impact
workout that meets your workout requirements.
The health benefits to the New balance Elliptical trainer are
great, the major benefit being the design.
The motion that the New balance Elliptical trainer provides
creates a no impact workout that burns more calories then a jog
in the park without your feet ever leaving the mat. It is a
complete cardiovascular workout.
If you are new to exercise, the new balance Elliptical trainer
is the best piece of equipment for you because of the advanced,
easy to use features. You decide which type of workout you want
and at what intensity, and program it into the New balance
Elliptical trainer. The easy monitoring system will keep track
of your stats and provide you with the results of an intense
workout. The settings include resistance, ramp, and speed.
The New balance Elliptical trainers create a smooth and
continuous fluid like motion that delivers a stress and impact
free workout.
The New balance Elliptical trainers provide a better workout
then a treadmill or exercise bike. When you use this trainer to
target the lower body, it assists in building leg muscles. When
you use the moving handles, you are targeting the entire body.
There are a few things that you need to take into consideration
before purchasing an New balance Elliptical trainer. This
machine is an excellent source for workout and weight
maintenance. However, like all exercise equipment, there are
different price ranges.
Determine what your budget is before choosing a model. The
basic price starts at around nine hundred dollars, and
depending on the features and accessories that you add, it
price could be raised into thousands of dollars. Do not be
fooled by cheaper imitation machines. They do not offer the
same quality or features as the new balance Elliptical trainer.
The New balance Elliptical trainer is by far the best piece of
exercise equipment that has been introduced to the market in
years. It delivers a complete and total workout that has proven
to be impact free. Today, you can find new balance Elliptical
trainers in fitness centers and gyms across the country.
Exercise is taken more and more seriously in the world today.
People are deciding to get into shape and stay healthy. The New
balance Elliptical trainer can assist anyone who is dedicated to
being healthy.
About the Author: Simon Oldmann has been writing about the
effects of financial planning on health and mental stability.
Simon is currently writing tips and advice about workout and
Elliptical Trainer at Elliptical Trainer
Source: isnare.com
Sunday, October 15, 2006
A quick guide to aerobic exercising
A Quick Guide to Aerobic Exercising
Copyright © 2006 Mike Stapenhurst
If you are not doing some aerobic training as part of your fitness routine, then you are not benefiting from exercise as much as you could. Aerobic literally means 'with oxygen', and aerobic exercise is any activity that can be maintained continuously, and is rhythmic in nature. It is a type of exercise that causes the heart and lungs to work harder than at rest.
Aerobic exercise is one of the cornerstones of a good fitness program. You should try to exercise aerobically at least three or four times a week for a period of 30 minutes or more. The goal is to increase your heart rate, strengthen the capacity of your lungs and increase the amount of oxygen that reaches your blood stream. (Make sure to get a physical checkup before you start any exercise program).
The amount of physical exercise that you exert during the day is a key ingredient to helping you get a good night's sleep. The more active your body is during the day, the more likely you are to relax at night and fall asleep faster. However, try and avoid exercising less than three before you go to bed.
Adding a regular aerobic exercise activity to your fitness schedule will help you to improve your overall health. Along with running and walking there are several other aerobic activities that you can do. These activities include biking, aerobic dance classes, and jumping rope. Which one you choose can depend on several factors.
1. Walking
Walking is the easiest exercise to begin with, and is the least stressful on your body. It is a good introduction to more strenuous activities like running. All you need to get started is a good pair of shoes and some comfortable walking clothes. You do need to walk at a brisk pace (without straining) to get your heart rate up. When you are just starting out on a walking program, avoid a lot of hills, as this can be hard on your knees. The only downside to walking is the time you will need. Many experienced walkers go out for a one to two hour workout.
2. Running
Although it is harder on the body, running is a very efficient exercise, and only 30 minutes will benefit your fitness. Depending on your age and physical condition, running is a sport you need to start carefully. See your physician if you have any doubts about your capabilities. You will need some good running shoes, and suitable clothing for the weather, unless you choose to run indoors on a treadmill. I have been running year-round for over twenty years and it is my favorite aerobic exercise.
3. Cycling
Cycling is another good aerobic exercise, but you have to work at it! It is very easy just to pedal along without increasing your heart rate sufficiently. Try a varied terrain, with some hills to get your heart pumping. This is a more expensive sport due to the cost of the gear, but it's a great way to see the countryside! The disadvantage of cycling is that it's not something you can do 12 months of the year, unless you live in the south. Like walking, cycling also requires a bigger time commitment.
4. Aerobic Dance Classes
Aerobic dance programs usually provide the hardest workout. I wouldn't recommend this to any one just starting out on a fitness program. For those of us with some training however this is an enjoyable alternative. Aerobic dance uses aerobic exercise, muscle building exercises, and stretching to provide a full all-round workout. A low impact class is a good place to start for beginners. You can try the high-impact version once you have strengthened the appropriate muscles.
5. Jumping Rope
Jumping rope can be very strenuous. You need to pace yourself so you are not continuously out of breath (remember the goal of aerobic exercising). You also have to do some warm-up exercises first, or you will risk an injury. Personally I have found rope skipping to be hard on my legs so I generally avoid this type of exercise. It does have the advantage of aerobic efficiency and you can get a really good workout over a 20-minute period. Jumping rope for 15 minutes will burn about 200 calories
If don't have any time for aerobic exercise on a regular basis, you should try to include moments of activity in your daily schedule. Whenever possible, you should take the stairs instead of the elevator, as little things like that will do wonders for your body. You can also park your car and walk an extra block or two to get where you're going. Look around and you will find many other things you can do to increase the level of activity in your life.
About The Author:
Article Source: thePhantomWriters Article Submission Service
Copyright © 2006 Mike Stapenhurst
If you are not doing some aerobic training as part of your fitness routine, then you are not benefiting from exercise as much as you could. Aerobic literally means 'with oxygen', and aerobic exercise is any activity that can be maintained continuously, and is rhythmic in nature. It is a type of exercise that causes the heart and lungs to work harder than at rest.
Aerobic exercise is one of the cornerstones of a good fitness program. You should try to exercise aerobically at least three or four times a week for a period of 30 minutes or more. The goal is to increase your heart rate, strengthen the capacity of your lungs and increase the amount of oxygen that reaches your blood stream. (Make sure to get a physical checkup before you start any exercise program).
The amount of physical exercise that you exert during the day is a key ingredient to helping you get a good night's sleep. The more active your body is during the day, the more likely you are to relax at night and fall asleep faster. However, try and avoid exercising less than three before you go to bed.
Adding a regular aerobic exercise activity to your fitness schedule will help you to improve your overall health. Along with running and walking there are several other aerobic activities that you can do. These activities include biking, aerobic dance classes, and jumping rope. Which one you choose can depend on several factors.
1. Walking
Walking is the easiest exercise to begin with, and is the least stressful on your body. It is a good introduction to more strenuous activities like running. All you need to get started is a good pair of shoes and some comfortable walking clothes. You do need to walk at a brisk pace (without straining) to get your heart rate up. When you are just starting out on a walking program, avoid a lot of hills, as this can be hard on your knees. The only downside to walking is the time you will need. Many experienced walkers go out for a one to two hour workout.
2. Running
Although it is harder on the body, running is a very efficient exercise, and only 30 minutes will benefit your fitness. Depending on your age and physical condition, running is a sport you need to start carefully. See your physician if you have any doubts about your capabilities. You will need some good running shoes, and suitable clothing for the weather, unless you choose to run indoors on a treadmill. I have been running year-round for over twenty years and it is my favorite aerobic exercise.
3. Cycling
Cycling is another good aerobic exercise, but you have to work at it! It is very easy just to pedal along without increasing your heart rate sufficiently. Try a varied terrain, with some hills to get your heart pumping. This is a more expensive sport due to the cost of the gear, but it's a great way to see the countryside! The disadvantage of cycling is that it's not something you can do 12 months of the year, unless you live in the south. Like walking, cycling also requires a bigger time commitment.
4. Aerobic Dance Classes
Aerobic dance programs usually provide the hardest workout. I wouldn't recommend this to any one just starting out on a fitness program. For those of us with some training however this is an enjoyable alternative. Aerobic dance uses aerobic exercise, muscle building exercises, and stretching to provide a full all-round workout. A low impact class is a good place to start for beginners. You can try the high-impact version once you have strengthened the appropriate muscles.
5. Jumping Rope
Jumping rope can be very strenuous. You need to pace yourself so you are not continuously out of breath (remember the goal of aerobic exercising). You also have to do some warm-up exercises first, or you will risk an injury. Personally I have found rope skipping to be hard on my legs so I generally avoid this type of exercise. It does have the advantage of aerobic efficiency and you can get a really good workout over a 20-minute period. Jumping rope for 15 minutes will burn about 200 calories
If don't have any time for aerobic exercise on a regular basis, you should try to include moments of activity in your daily schedule. Whenever possible, you should take the stairs instead of the elevator, as little things like that will do wonders for your body. You can also park your car and walk an extra block or two to get where you're going. Look around and you will find many other things you can do to increase the level of activity in your life.
About The Author:
Mike Stapenhurst is a long-time fitness enthusiast, runner and walker. He is co-author of the book "Marathon Training Tips". He designs personalized training logs for Personal Logs.com. His new website "26.2" about marathon information and training can be found at: http://www.marathon.ipcor.com. |
Article Source: thePhantomWriters Article Submission Service
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Coming back from injury
Ever had the feeling that you've run too far? That's how I felt today after completing the Clumber 10k in a slow 50 minutes. I suppose I shouldn't have expected any better as I got badly injured in July, and it has been a slow process coming back.
Building back up from gentle jog/walking to running steadily for over an hour. I have been running 4 days a week, and doing weight training 3 times a week. The weight training has slipped a bit in recent weeks, but I have to get back into that.
After today I won't run fast for a week. In fact I could do with taking a few days off all together, but I probably won't do that.
I have found some great alternative exercises in the last few months -- including using the elliptical trainer and rowing machine. I think I will have to use the elliptical trainer more this week so that I recover better before pushing myself too far running again. I'll keep you posted.
Building back up from gentle jog/walking to running steadily for over an hour. I have been running 4 days a week, and doing weight training 3 times a week. The weight training has slipped a bit in recent weeks, but I have to get back into that.
After today I won't run fast for a week. In fact I could do with taking a few days off all together, but I probably won't do that.
I have found some great alternative exercises in the last few months -- including using the elliptical trainer and rowing machine. I think I will have to use the elliptical trainer more this week so that I recover better before pushing myself too far running again. I'll keep you posted.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Mountain Walking in Spain
We've just returned from a week away in Spain. Our most notable days were spent in the mountains near Benidorm guided by a friendly walking company called, Walks Plus
If it hadn't been for our 4 days of walking I might have gone crazy, and drunk myself into a stupor-- which is why most British holiday makers go there!
Our final day was spent on the mountain, Puig Campana, which is 1410 metres. We walked around the top, not going to the summit. This was still tricky walking terrain especially the descent on the "mosserabic" trail.
Our thanks go to Vanessa and Neil Simpson, and their guides for a fantastic holiday.
If it hadn't been for our 4 days of walking I might have gone crazy, and drunk myself into a stupor-- which is why most British holiday makers go there!
Our final day was spent on the mountain, Puig Campana, which is 1410 metres. We walked around the top, not going to the summit. This was still tricky walking terrain especially the descent on the "mosserabic" trail.
Our thanks go to Vanessa and Neil Simpson, and their guides for a fantastic holiday.
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Six Simple Ways to Jumpstart Your Energy In the Afternoon
It’s 11:00 in the morning and your energy is waning. Minutes seem to tick by like hours and your mind feels foggy. You’ve still got six more hours to look alert and act productive, so how do you get through the afternoon without falling asleep, or yawning so much your boss thinks you're bored? Follow these six simple tips!
1. If your job involves sitting at a desk all day or staring at a computer screen, take five minutes to stand up or lean back, close your eyes and stretch, especially in your shoulder and leg areas. Being seated all the time can make your whole body feel stiff and sleepy. Stretching regularly helps limber up your body and gets the blood flowing again.
2. Avoid the tempting lure of caffeine or sugar-laden foods such as coffee, tea or chocolate. Caffeine may perk up your energy levels temporarily, but it also leaves you feeling sluggish after the effect has worn off. Instead, choose whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables to give your body the fuel it really needs! Eating healthier will boost your mood, elevate your alertness and make you feel better all day long.
3. Along with healthier foods, take a quick 10-15 minute walk during your lunch break. Just a few minutes will give you a burst of energy that refreshes you and makes you feel more alert – while burning off your lunch calories in the process!
4. Sometimes, afternoon slumps can be your body’s way of telling you that it needs something. You may be feeling tired if your blood sugar is low (which happens especially after the effect of those caffeine and high sugar foods has worn off!). Packing a low calorie snack like graham crackers, granola, fruit or vegetable slices can give your body a boost and keep you from feeling hungry in the late afternoon and caving in to the urge to devour the entire contents of the vending machine after work!
5. Drowsiness is often a sign of dehydration. Drinking more water throughout the day not only helps keep you awake, but also keeps you from feeling those hunger pangs that inevitably creep up in mid-morning. Taking a large sports bottle that you can drink from throughout the day is a great way to get your recommended eight glasses a day as well!
6. If afternoon fatigue is a recurring problem, it may be a side effect of medications you are taking. Allergy pills are well known culprits, as are some blood pressure and anxiety/depression medicines. Don’t try to circumvent these effects with caffeine, otherwise you’ll overload your body with stimulants while it’s already trying to deal with drowsiness, and you’ll feel mentally and physically exhausted. Instead, try a short 15-20 minute catnap. You’ll be surprised how refreshed you’ll feel when you wake up! (Don’t try this at work though – not unless your boss approves!)
If you follow these tips on a regular basis, you’ll not only stay awake at work, but you’ll also feel better physically and mentally, sleep better at night, and wake up rejuvenated and re-energized the next morning. By maintaining your energy better throughout the day you will also perform better in any sports you pursue-- be it running or football.
1. If your job involves sitting at a desk all day or staring at a computer screen, take five minutes to stand up or lean back, close your eyes and stretch, especially in your shoulder and leg areas. Being seated all the time can make your whole body feel stiff and sleepy. Stretching regularly helps limber up your body and gets the blood flowing again.
2. Avoid the tempting lure of caffeine or sugar-laden foods such as coffee, tea or chocolate. Caffeine may perk up your energy levels temporarily, but it also leaves you feeling sluggish after the effect has worn off. Instead, choose whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables to give your body the fuel it really needs! Eating healthier will boost your mood, elevate your alertness and make you feel better all day long.
3. Along with healthier foods, take a quick 10-15 minute walk during your lunch break. Just a few minutes will give you a burst of energy that refreshes you and makes you feel more alert – while burning off your lunch calories in the process!
4. Sometimes, afternoon slumps can be your body’s way of telling you that it needs something. You may be feeling tired if your blood sugar is low (which happens especially after the effect of those caffeine and high sugar foods has worn off!). Packing a low calorie snack like graham crackers, granola, fruit or vegetable slices can give your body a boost and keep you from feeling hungry in the late afternoon and caving in to the urge to devour the entire contents of the vending machine after work!
5. Drowsiness is often a sign of dehydration. Drinking more water throughout the day not only helps keep you awake, but also keeps you from feeling those hunger pangs that inevitably creep up in mid-morning. Taking a large sports bottle that you can drink from throughout the day is a great way to get your recommended eight glasses a day as well!
6. If afternoon fatigue is a recurring problem, it may be a side effect of medications you are taking. Allergy pills are well known culprits, as are some blood pressure and anxiety/depression medicines. Don’t try to circumvent these effects with caffeine, otherwise you’ll overload your body with stimulants while it’s already trying to deal with drowsiness, and you’ll feel mentally and physically exhausted. Instead, try a short 15-20 minute catnap. You’ll be surprised how refreshed you’ll feel when you wake up! (Don’t try this at work though – not unless your boss approves!)
If you follow these tips on a regular basis, you’ll not only stay awake at work, but you’ll also feel better physically and mentally, sleep better at night, and wake up rejuvenated and re-energized the next morning. By maintaining your energy better throughout the day you will also perform better in any sports you pursue-- be it running or football.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
