10 Tips On How To Start Running

This article will tell you my top tips on how to get off your ass and out running around the streets! You will learn how to get fit safely by following these simple steps and only running two or three times per week. This is very important if you want to reduce the risk of injuring yourself....

1. Invest in a good pair of running shoes. You don't have to buy the top of the range, but it's important to ensure that your shoes will provide sufficient cushioning to protect your back and lower limbs from injury. No fashion trainers with skinny soles!!

2. Walk at first. For the first three or four weeks you should have a 10 minute warm-up walk before doing any running. Then start a combination of running and walking. See below for an outline of the routine.

3. Don't run two days in a row. Give your muscles, ligaments and tendons a chance to get used to running. Three times per week maximum.

4. Run for time, not distance. Your running program should be designed to gradually increase the time you spend on your feet, rather than the distance you cover.

5. Avoid the "Terrible Two's" - drastic increases in time of your runs. The Terrible too's too much, too soon and too fast!! If you ran a total of thirty minutes last week, don't increase it by more than five or ten minutes the following week.

6. Avoid copying good runners! These runners were born with genes that enable their bodies to handle running, you know the ones, lean and skinny. Don't try to copy them as it may lead to injury.

7. Be patient! Don't be in a hurry. Wait until you can run at least 30 minutes without resting before lining up for that first 5km fun run like the race for life.

8. Find a partner to run with. Some of the greatest friendships have been formed during training runs.

9. Run more slowly than you think you should. Also don't run as far as you think you should during the first 6 weeks.

10. Enjoy it! This is your time to yourself, it's meant to be enjoyable.

Outline Routine (after warm-up)

Start by jogging slowly for 15-30 seconds and walking for 60-90 seconds.

Gradually increase the amount of running e.g. 30 sec jog - 90 sec walk, 45 sec jog - 90 sec walk, 60 sec jog - 90 sec walk. Do this for 20 minutes, three times a week.

After 4 weeks try to reduce the time you walk for and increase your running time. E.g. 90 sec jog - 45 sec walk, 2 min jog - 30 sec walk, 3 min jog - 30 sec walk, 5 min jog - 30 sec walk.

Once you are able to run 5 minutes continuous, you can start to try to increase your running so its more continuous and keep your rest to minimum. E.g. 10 min run 30 sec rest, repeat twice. Slow and steady is the key at this stage.

Before you start your running program, you should visit your doctor. This is always a good idea, but especially in case of the following:
Excessively OverweightHeart problems or health problemsNever exercised before or not exercised for many yearsBreathing problemsChronic fatigueAged over fifty

So there they are my top ten tips, I hope you enjoyed and will benefit.

Now you know some vital information which will hopefully help your exercise program and increase your chances of achieving your goals. For more information from our team of sports scientists on personal training, boot camps, diet and nutrition, psychology, injuries and treatments, and rest, recovery and conditioning and many more why not visit: http://advancedsportsperformance.co.uk/

There are many easy to read helpful articles which can inspire you to reach your fitness and exercise goals FASTER!

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Original article

Get A Healthier, Better Looking Body With Jogging And Cardiovascular Workouts

Jogging is a great way to stay fit, and as an exercise, it has many benefits. For those looking to get ripped, six pack abs, jogging is a wonderful way to lose fat and show more definition in the muscles underneath. Staying in shape with jogging can also help prevent injury, as it keeps the leg muscles strong. For many people, it even makes for a good form of stress release or meditation, giving the mind a chance to clear out.

It's easy to see why so many people fall in love with jogging. The whole body sees the benefits. Many consider it a way to have control over their body and their health. Everything from fat loss, to improved cardiovascular function and blood circulation, to stronger muscles and better balance is possible.

Although walking can produce many of the same benefits, jogging is more intensive and the results tend to happen more quickly. Running is more intensive still, but it's easy to get worn out quickly if you're not in top condition. Jogging basically falls in the middle. It's a good moderate-intensity exercise that can be sustained over long periods of time. It's ideal for losing weight, as cardiovascular exercises need to be performed for 20 minutes or more before they start burning fat effectively.

There are countless other cardio exercises that can produce similar benefits. Running up stairways and hillsides, dancing, and jumproaping are a few that can be done almost any time. Swimming and bike riding have the extra benefit of smooth, fluid motions that put much less stress on the joints. Competitive sports are great as well, such as tennis, volleyball, and martial arts. Really, anything that constantly keeps you moving is good exercise, and the more the better.

Doing workouts outdoors offers the most freedom, but there are always times that the weather won't allow for the best conditions. In these cases, indoor sports courts will still let you get your workout. Even in the house, anyone could spend 30 minutes jogging in place while watching the TV or listening to music. The important thing is to not use bad weather as an excuse to not work out. If it starts to become a habit, it can be tough to put yourself back on the right track. Always have a plan B available, and make sure it's something you enjoy. The more enjoyment you get from exercise, the less it feels like work, and the more motivated you will be to do it.

On the average, a person burns 100 calories for each mile they run. Like any skill, the more you do it, the more second nature it becomes. It's also a good practice in building self-discipline, requiring determination to keep at it day in and day out.

One great thing about jogging in particular is that you don't need any extra equipment other than a good pair of shoes for running. It can also be done in almost any park, on trails, college campuses and city streets. It can also be a great alterative to driving to some places, as you get the benefits of exercise without having to pay for gas. Just be sure to choose a route that doesn't follow along a main traffic artery, where exhaust and crowded sidewalks could be a problem.

Often times, people will neglect the cardiovascular portion of their workouts when they're after firmer and more toned muscles. It's true that it doesn't happen without a good amount of strength training and weight lifting. Never the less, jogging and cardiovascular workouts are a key component to getting rid of extra fat and making the body healthier overall.

So if it's the well-defined six pack abs that you're after, adding cardiovascular and jogging activities to your workouts will help you attain the great body you want, as well as a good level of overall health.

Alejo Arizona is a performer and fitness expert based out of beautiful Jerome, Arizona. You can go here to check out his fitness website.

Take a look at the video section to discover more amazing fitness and muscle building secrets.


Original article

Look Good, Feel Better! With Cardiovascular Exercise

While home cardiovascular exercise training devices are not nearly as good as the equipment accessible at the health club, the product quality is generally adequate to assist normal exercises. Be certain to take proper care of them. Taking care of home gym machines is the obvious way to make sure you will get your money's worth from them.

What is wonderful about possessing cardiovascular exercise devices in your residence is that you don't have to be concerned about getting dressed for freezing weather lasting months to go work out. You can also exercise for several minutes or even hours devoid of having to be concerned about someone else seeking a turn on the cardiovascular exercise apparatus.

If you are uneasy regarding the expense of acquiring your personal residence cardio exercise devices, you should a pay a visit to your nearby fitness center then you can evaluate the expense. Bear in mind after you include your initiation expenditures, regular membership charges, and fuel to get to and from, you could have invested in the equipment for your own use.

When choosing cardio exercise devices, stay away from equipment that positions excess weight or level of resistance on the hip-joint. Although it isn't a piece of equipment, swimming pools provide a safe and sound device equally for muscle-strengthening and cardio.

The elliptical exercise machine and fitness bike, placed to percentage incline, offer you low-impact alternatives for cardiovascular exercise. Going for walks using a home treadmill, fixed to per cent slope, generates minimum effect on the hip-joint.

Jogging or speed-walking on the fitness treadmill machine may possibly position an excessive amount of excess weight to the joint. Nevertheless, you need to talk about even light jogging or speedy jogging together with your medical professional prior to taking part in this exercise.

Regrettably, most cardiovascular workout devices could cost a couple of hundred to thousands of dollars. The great news is that we now have vendors that offer inexpensive cardio exercise work out devices. Therefore, it's actually dependent on looking for the ideal merchandise as well as the supplier.

The internet marketers should provide an outstanding supply of this since there are a large number of dealers on the internet. Make sure you look into the trustworthiness of the vendor prior to adding any purchases. Enquiries would additionally be essential along with studying client comments regarding the supplier per se.

Gym memberships, fitness treadmills and other cardio exercise training devices are normally not advisable for small children simply because their physiques aren't prepared for that form of activity. As an alternative, promote enjoyable routines like jump rope, hopscotch, four square and bike rides. If there are other children in the household or community, recommend a game of tag or conceal and go look for. These are exciting methods for youngsters to be active.

Versa climbers are about the most effective and demanding cardiovascular exercise work out apparatus. This device is the very least democratic with cardiovascular devices in virtually any fitness center. Do not be shocked if it is not used and just accumulates airborne dirt and dust. However it is really a beneficial cardiovascular device. It makes a movement like your mounting vertically. They would be pushed to go in opposite to the normal force of gravitational forces. The use of the device could very easily and efficiently increase your cardiovascular rate.

The Twister becomes a very good unwanted fat burning aerobic exercise workout apparatus. It enables you have an efficient toning resistance that provides exercise routines for the upper body. The Twister is a stimulating and pleasant way of firming and toning your body, buttocks, and upper thighs, while burning unwelcome fat. It has been found that twister functions as excellent physical fitness apparatus that assists a person to keep healthy and in condition.

Cardiovascular exercise has been proven to help with weight loss and enhance your physical condition. Now the decision to buy equipment for your home or join a health and fitness club is the big question.

Learn more about cardio workout equipment. Stop by Max and Fran's site where you can find out all about Stamina Pro 15-5300 Upright Bike and what it can do for you.


Original article

P90X Vs Insanity - Which Do You Choose?

Completing the first 30 days of Insanity pushed me with my cardio but the 2nd phase of the Insanity program was a beast. I completed it without missing a workout and feeling good about my results. I didn't see a great reduction in my weight, like I did when I completed P90X, but I can tell that my body fat percentage decreased and I do look leaner. Numbers aside that's the bottom line about doing this anyway right? Looking better and feeling better after a program like this is achievement enough for me! There is another reason for that too but I'll discuss that further down. I don't disregard the numbers by the way, I'll provide those in a minute.

What I Liked About Insanity

I was coming off an injury to my distal bicep, so the idea of a program that uses no weights and equipment, really appealed to me. Well, I used a heart rate monitor, but I'm not sure if you can call that equipment. I also liked the fact that the Insanity program was only 60 days, as opposed to the 90 days of P90X. Once you do Insanity, it's easy to see why it doesn't continue on for another 30 days. It's just not needed. Some may be concerned about losing any gains from P90X, but I would have to say that I don't think that's the case. You still do a bit of upper body and shoulder work just not to the extent of P90X. Push-up and floor exercises that work the chest and shoulders are added to the cardio mix and I was getting a good burn from those. The last point which was a nice change was that the first month of exercises in Insanity were only about 40 minutes including warm-up and cool down. That gets extended in the second month, but a least you build up to it!

What I Struggled With

If you had thought Plyometrics was tough in P90X, just wait till you get to do Max Interval Plyo! That doesn't happen until the second month in Insanity but I find it funny that a word that I hardly used prior to P90X has become a 4 letter word in my mind..."PLYO!"

What Could Be Better?

Shaun T was a nice change from Tony Horton, but for such an Insane workout I thought that there should have been a light warm up and stretch before getting right into it. The warm up was more like a pre-cardio workout to the cardio workout. The stretching is done post warm up which is fine, but its a pretty intense warm up. Also,

the Cardio Abs routines really didn't do anything for me. I thought the P90X Ab Ripper routines were much more intense. Even though I was burnt out after an Insanity workout, when having to do Cardio Abs right after, I still walked away thinking, "Okay, was that it?"

So what were my results?

I started Insanity at the 79.2kg (around the 175 pound mark) and ended up at 78.5kg (173 pounds). One thing I noticed that with the Insanity program is that due to the calorie burn in each workout, I felt that my appetite shot up quite a bit. I found myself eating more during this program than I ever did with P90X. Not eating bad stuff, but just needing more food intake to feel satisfied.

Closing Thoughts

Shaun T and the Insanity program provided me with a great way to continue on with working out since I hurt my distal bicep. I really didn't want to stop since I was feeling really good completing P90X. This program really pushes cardio and I found myself burning calories like crazy. I read somewhere in the forums that the Insanity workouts burn anywhere from 300 to 1000 calories per workout. The product home page says up 1,000 per workout but of course that depends on each person and how intense they worked out that day.

I would recommend Insanity to someone who:

-Needs a change from P90X

-Wants to lose weight very quickly

-Would like shorter workouts without weights or equipment

-Doesn't mind cardio...(maybe "loves cardio" would be a better way to say it)

Overall, I'm glad I did it. It gave me ideas about incorporating some of the routines into P90x in some way when I do another round of it. For example, as fun as it is, I wasn't too keen on Kenpo as an intense workout. The P90X Plyometrics was good, but after Insanity, I think any of those Cardio routines are a bit more intense.

Robert Hickey completed P90X and Insanity can tell you more about his P90x vs insanity experience on his blog. Robert lost close to 30 pounds with P90X and his is just one of many P90X Success Stories on how this program can change your life.


Original article

7 Great Steps to Cycling As an Aerobic Workout

Whether you are a novice or a serious athlete, you will enjoy the scenery as you tour the countryside on your bicycle-and your body is sure to enjoy the aerobic workout. Whatever your fitness level, these tips will help you get more out of your routine.

1. Getting in gear

Bicycling has enjoyed several waves of interest through the years. One reason for its popularity is that it can be enjoyed by just about anyone, regardless of age or level of fitness.

a. This sport can be enjoyed in groups or solo, on the roads or with a stationary bike. Your can also vary your pace, from leisurely touring to intense training.

b. Incorporate bicycling into your schedule. Use bike to work or when running errands.

c. The beginning bicyclist may need only a three-speed bike, but many will prefer to have 10-12 speeds. This will make it easier for you to go over hills and allow you to increase the resistance on the straightaways.

d. Biking at a fast speed is excellent for weight control. Pedaling one hour at 13 miles per hour will burn about 650 calories.

e. Bicycling is especially good for building the quadriceps (a group of four large muscles in the front of the thigh). Toe clips are useful if you have problems with your feet slipping off the pedals, but they also help you to work your calf and shin muscles. You may want to consider toe clips with a quick-release mechanism if the clips are especially snug-fitting.

2. A bicycling routine

Beginners will do fine riding for 20-30 minutes at a moderate rate. Try the following routine for a more disciplined approach.

a. First week: Work on getting comfortable with the bike and experimenting with gears. Try to ride 2-5 miles during the week and 5-10 miles on the weekend.

b. Second week: Include a few short periods of faster riding in your routine. This is called interval training and will help our develop strength and endurance. Aim for 4-7 miles during the week and 10 miles on the weekend.

c. Third week: Include five minute periods of faster riding, separated by five minutes of easy riding. Ride 6-9 miles during the week and 15 miles on the weekend.

d. Fourth week: Try doing one day of three-minute intervals instead of five -minute intervals. Ride 8-11 miles during the week and up to 20 miles on the weekend.

e. Spare your tires. Storing your bicycle near appliances that give off ozone can age your tires, causing cracks and other damage to the rubber. Keep your bike away from refrigerators, freezers, and electric heaters.

3. The right posture

a. Getting the right-size bike is important. When you straddle your bike with both feet on the ground, there should be one to two inches between the front tube (the bar that runs from the handlebars to the seat) and your crotch.

b. When you are seated, your leg should be only slightly bent when it reaches the bottom of the pedaling movement.

c. Bend forward at the hips-not at the waist-when your ride. Keep you back straight and your neck and shoulder muscles relaxed.

d. When gripping the handlebars, keep you elbows slightly bent. This will give you better leverage and shock absorption when going over potholes or bumps.

e. Ease the stress of a long ride by changing your hand position often.

4. Dress for comfort, dress for safety

a. You can bike in just about any clothing, but serious bikers prefer a pair of chamois lined shorts. These reduce chafing and pressure in the groin. A padded seat will also help you stay comfortable.

b. Gloves are useful for reducing pressure on the palms that comes from leaning on handle-bars. Gloves will also protect your hands in case you fall.

5. Riding with caution

a. Inspect your bike before every ride. Check the tires, brakes, gears and headlight.

b. Practice sudden braking techniques. Always squeeze both brakes, the front harder than the rear and let up on the front brake if you feel yourself skidding. Sliding back in the saddle will also help stabilize the bike.

c. Attach a loud horn to the handlebars and use it whenever necessary.

d. Do not ride at night unless you have no choice and then use reflectors and headlights and wear reflective clothing.

e. Secure flapping pant legs with rubber bands to avoid having them get caught in the bike's wheels. Also, tuck in loose shoelaces.

f. Rearview mirrors should be mounted on your handlebars, not on your helmet.

g. A water bottle can come in handy to fight off dehydration.

h. Bicyclists are safest when wearing neon pink. It is easy for motorists to spot this uncommon color.

6. Biking in any weather

a. Windchill rapidly becomes a factor when you are traveling at 15 miles per hour. Consider wearing a mask to stay warm.

b. Hypothermia can occur in temperature as high as 60 degrees Fahrenheit on wet and windy days. Cyclists should wear gloves, leg coverings, and long-sleeved shirts when it is cool outside.

c. In wet weather, brakes do not hold very well. Use caution when your hubs become wet.

d. Take along something to drink when biking in warm weather, preferably two quarter size water bottles.

7. Helmet protection

If you consider the lifelong damage that one head injury can cause, you will see how important it is to wear a sturdy helmet every time you bike.

a. Buy only helmets that are approved by competent authorities.

b. A properly fitting helmet should touch your head at the crown, sides, front, and back. Choose the smallest size that fits comfortably and use the sizing pads included with most helmets to fine-tune the fit.

c. Adjust the straps. With the helmet level across your forehead just above your eyebrows, the front strap should be close to vertical. The back strap should lie straight, just below the ear, without any slack. The chin strap should feel tight when you open your mouth.

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Original article

Why Water Aerobics Is a Great Exercise Option

Looking for a new alternative to your daily walk, or trip to the gym? Why not try water aerobics! This is a is a low impact exercise that will still make you sweat!

You may think that swimming in a pool is all it takes for water exercises. But this is not true! Water aerobics is a full body workout, using every muscle from your legs to your shoulders. After an hour doing this aerobic exercise you are sure to feel the burn!

So how can one get started?

Surprisingly, many local pools offer classes in this sport, and usually for a very low cost. Check your local pool, or local gym to see if they are offering classes. These classes are fairly popular, so be sure to sign up early to ensure you have a spot.

If your local pool or gym does not offer the class, make your own class. There are many shops and online stores which offer great sports equipment, and for affordable cost. You'll be able to build up your own water aerobics kit, and many of these items you can take with you, so even when you travel you can stick to your workout.

What does water aerobics consist of?

This exercise uses cardio and strength training, as well as resistance training. You will be doing a good bit of cardio as you jog in the pool, or do laps. The strength training comes in the form of building your shoulder muscles, leg muscles, and core muscles as you go through the routine. Resistance training is a big part of water aerobics. Many professional swimmers complete a vigorous workout daily involving water aerobics for resistance training and to improve their performance.

The use of outside of equipment is a benefit to your routine, although not mandatory. Water aerobics equipment helps the swimmer maintain body alignment and improve performance; additionally the use of equipment can make for an overall more productive workout. The use of exercise equipment is a perfect way to increase leg and core strength during your workout.

What type of equipment is available to improve your workout?

There is a wide variety of equipment options available to improve your workout. Resistance bands and kick boards are the most common items that are used during a water aerobics workout. An Aquajogger belt is a great option to help increase weight loss during a workout. Use the Aquajogger belt to tone the abdominal muscles and maintain correct posture. A great alterative to the common sit-up!

If you're ready to get started with a water aerobics exercise routine, check out some local sports store or online store to start your water aerobics kit today!

Copyright (c) 2012 SwimShopUSA

SwimShopUSA.com is a family owned and operated business. At SwimShopUSA.com we take pride in providing superior service to our customers. In our eyes customer satisfaction is, and always will be our number one priority. You will find information, product updates, and various swim suits / gear from quality manufactures. We carry a complete assortment of apparel from Speedo and TYR.


Original article

Can You Attain Success With Insanity Weight Loss DVD's?

Like many other weight loss programs, the Insanity program started its venture in the market with great hype. The product popularly known as Insanity has been praised by millions of users around the world and now is listed among the very best ever weight loss solution that has ever launched. This product is a 60 day workout program. It has already outdone many similar products with outstanding effects on the user. But it takes you to another world of living with efforts and eating habits. Reading this Insanity weight loss DVD review will get you to the core strength, information and unavoidable limitations of this program.

Core design of the Insanity DVD's

The product talks about a slightly different approach. However, your comfort will certainly get you through this journey and lose weight successfully in a short time. This product can only help if you have the spirit of competition and sportsmanship. If you are strict about personal issues and have a definitive goal, you will find this product is a great one to be on. The recommended way to get the most of this program involves dedication, honesty and target-orientation from inside. Before you choose this program to be your coach, try to follow the insanity weight loss program DVD reviews and find out what suits you and what doesn't.

Insanity Weight Loss DVD's may not be the right pick for lazy people!

If you don't like sports, if you don't want to be on an exciting journey of extreme physical aptitudes, the program might not be a good pick for you. The users that have been successful with the 60 day program were proactive through and through besides being physically fit and aggressive. Let me be honest, if you prefer passive and low-key forms of sports and physical activities don't go for this program.

Insanity Weight Loss DVD's recommendations

Once you have followed through the program, you should have lost 7 lbs at least. You will also be able to decrease your vital structure (approximately 2 inches in diameter). The creator of this program recommends being focused and continuous. Changing your approaches to life can help you motivate yourself and change the scenario in the shortest hours. If you repeat the course, you will be able to reduce 20 lbs in a year, so the bait is all yours. You should also try to find someone who will accompany you through this journey, talk to people around you about the program and your improvements (blogs, forums can help a lot). Above all, keep up with the chart inside the box to stay focused, result-oriented and success-potent.

Weight Loss Reviews provides unbiased reviews and advise regarding the benefits of the Insanity weight loss program.


Original article

Four Pillars of Getting Abs

I have recently come to understand that planning is guessing, no need to follow many plans that never work and feel guilty afterwards. I am a type of person who wants results quickly, since we always blame ourselves when things do not go the way we planned or the way we want them to, my solution is just to go with what is working for that moment and to discard what is not working.

These days there is too much information overload when it comes to getting 6 pack abs, do not allow yourself to be confused by the training jargon and many different exercises. Do what works for you and stick to it, if you feel that you have to change then change. Do not be afraid to make decisions, take a step forward and face your fears.

It is also vital to be smart, you must have confidence in yourself. Discipline is the middle name of training for abs, without it you are as good as dead. Have a weekly routine schedule to follow - that is not planning, it is simply being smart. When you exercise make it a point that you do not cheat otherwise you are setting out for a disaster that will take a long time to be fixed.

In order to get 6 pack abs you must follow the four pillars rule. The four pillars are discipline, dedication, strength and a positive attitude. You need to stop looking at people, you have a goal and if you use these four pillars as your guide you will get the perfect abs guaranteed. It is obvious that you cannot get your abs in a week or two of starting training, let us be realistic here - there is no quick fix when it comes to getting abs.

You must also learn to listen to your body, going to training frequently is highly advisable but when the body says it is tired you must listen to it and give it a break to recoup so that your muscles can get ready to push those hidden abs out. Fatigue and burnout are usually taken for granted and if you do not go back to training after you have taken a break all the hard work will be meaningless.

Since you have made a decision to get perfect abs, stick to it. Overcoming laziness and procrastination is quite easy when you know how, once you are at the gym and you feel that you do not want to be there, start by taking a light jog or a brisk walk then get on to working out for your abs, you will feel the difference and the need to procrastinate will disappear automatically.

This article was written by Ernest Mokoatle the owner of Perfect Abs HQ.
How to get a 6 pack


Original article

Cardiovascular Fitness and Workouts

The ability of the heart and lungs to provide the various body organs and tissues the required amount of oxygen is referred to as cardiovascular fitness. Cardiovascular health can be maintained and promoted through various ways and complex methods. The process often evolves with time because of recent studies and discoveries made. Brilliant as it may sound, it often leads to a lot of misunderstanding. To better understand cardiovascular fitness, we shall discuss the basics such as the importance and benefits of having a fit cardiovascular system.

The goal to a healthy and long life is through a healthy cardiovascular system. The advantages and benefits of it are very worthwhile due to the fact that it has an impact even in simple activities such as working and sleeping. The concept of cardiovascular fitness revolves around the hearts ability to pump oxygenated blood to various tissues and body organs, as well as the lung's capability to oxygenate the blood being pump. The heating being a muscular organ, like any other muscle, strengthening it is possible. A strong heart improves the efficiency of the cardiovascular system in performing its duties. Physical benefits may also be felt.

The best way to achieve a fit cardiovascular system is through cardiovascular exercises. Through this type of workout, hormones such as endorphins are released which has properties similar to morphine. This produces a great feeling during workouts. Furthermore, an individual who exercises has higher energy levels that those who don't, giving them more energy to work for long periods of time. Sleep is also improved.

Our body's immune system is also affected by cardiovascular workouts. It boosts our immune system which improves the body's capability to ward off infections. Aside from the increase in energy, stamina is also increased. The increase in stamina can help you go through tough jobs every day, even without or little rest. A major health concern for most people is stress. Studies have shown that people who exercise are more than able to cope with stress than those who don't.

There are many ways in order to improve your cardiovascular fitness. Although many people would prefer going on exercise machines such as stepping machines, treadmills, and exercise bikes. It doesn't mean that you would have to go through these machines to be fit, especially for those who can't afford these machines or gym memberships. For those people who can't afford gym memberships or is too busy to go to the gym. Simple exercises at home may be done as long as the heart rate is increased. An increase in heart rate can be achieve through activities such as brisk walking, jogging, or even running up and down the stairs.

However, before partaking in any exercise or workout, it is essential to first consult a health professional. This is to ensure that you are fit enough to do the workouts you wanted, especially high intensity workouts. Your current heart condition should be assessed. This is to avoid certain injuries and even death. Consulting a fitness expert is also important so as to have the right type of exercise according to your fitness level.

For more information about Cardiovascular Fitness. Please visit Cardiovascular Fitness and Cardiorespiratory Endurance.


Original article

Does Zumba Work To Burn Calories?

If you haven't already heard calories can drop off while you enjoy your workout. But whats all the fuss about? The idea first raised itself in the mid 1990's but it wasn't until 2001 that the movement really started. Combining Latin based infused music with easy to learn steps, this really is a fun way to improve your fitness, tone up and of course lose some weight. Most fitness plans involve lengthy gym sessions and harsh diet requirements which can easily lead to you giving up or becoming very bored of the regime you've given yourself. Zumba offers results in your fitness by encouraging you to have fun while you're doing it.

With over 12 million users and a multitude of countries participating, Zumba is now the most successful dance fitness program out there. If you review the numbers you will realize that Zumba appeals right across the board, all ages and all levels of fitness. There are different variations to how you can use Zumba as you can train in water or bring sticks into the workout for different results. The use of music while working out is not that unique but what puts Zumba apart is the choice of music with Latin based dance already being a natural core toner.

Zumba calories are burned by sweating, dancing and most of all having fun. Now we have all heard of high numbers being floated around as far as how many calories are burnt during any one session. I would ask your own instructor for a number as not only does he/she work closely with you but more importantly they know how hard you work. I can say that anything from 400 to 800 calories burned each session is achievable, again depending on how hard you push yourself. Also your diet is very important while your training because eating correctly will give you good energy levels during sessions helping you gain the best results possible.

Once you have a good eating habit established you can see how your daily energy levels increase which can only be a good thing. The purchase of a heart monitor will give you extra control over your Zumba calories burned during your sessions and if monitored correctly it will tell when you have dropped off or increased your intensity levels. It is important for you to know that knowledge in Latin dance is not part of the Zumba criteria as your instructor will have a multitude of step routines that will cater to all levels. Don't forget this is not a dance competition, you are there to improve your fitness levels and burn those calories, meeting friends and enjoying your self along the way.

Another thing I love about Zumba is that if you feel this is something you could run yourself there are steps in place so that becoming a Zumba instructor can become a reality giving you something to strive towards. Zumba really does tick all the boxes so I say get involved for yourself see those calories drop off as you dance yourself to a better way of living.

My relationship with exercise over the years has never been consistent, with a busy work and home life a grueling trip to the gym has often been last on the list. That was until Zumba change all of this, I couldn't believe how easily I fitted something I enjoyed into my weekly plan without any of my other responsibilities being affected. You can read more about what Zumba can do for you and answering some of those questions you have here:

http://www.zumbacalories.org/


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Two Groups Of Aerobic Fitness Factors

Health associated fitness factors. These factors define how well the systems of your body operate.

1. Physical Structure - the quantity of lean mass compared to the amount of body fat typically is declared in terms of percent body fat.

2. Cardiovascular and Respiratory Endurance - ability of the heart, lungs and muscles to carry out activity over a sustained period of time. The usual fitness test for this component is the one mile run.

3. Musculature Strength - ability of a muscle group or a specific muscle to exert maximal force against a resistance one time through a full range of motion. The common fitness test for this component is pull-us or flexed arm hang.

4. Musical Endurance - ability of a muscle group or a specific muscle to exert a sub maximal force repeatedly over time. The usual fitness test for this component is curl-ups.

5. Flexibility - ability to stretch, twist and bend the body with ease through an entire range of motion. The common fitness test for this factor is the site and reach test.

Skill associated fitness factors. These factors define the physical capability of a person to become an athlete.

1. Balance - ability to keep the control of the body while fixed or moving.

2. Agility - ability to alter direction of the body promptly and easily. The usual Fitness- Test for this element is the shuttle Run.

3. Coordination - ability to synchronize the senses, such as auditory sense and sight, with body parts in the process of executing motor tasks smoothly and precisely.

4. Power - ability to merge force and speed in one movement

5. Speed - ability to quickly make a motion with your body from one point to another.

6. Response Time - the time between a signal and the beginning of a movement.

Health benefits of aerobic fitness

With regular aerobic exercise your heart becomes stronger and you need less resting while doing work. Regular exercise makes you have more energy. Aerobic exercise is also the best cure for weight problems. Your blood pressure will be decreased, muscles and bones strengthened. One of the biggest problems in today's way of life is stress. Aerobic exercise scales down tension and stress. Other benefits which you can expect include: higher quality of life, increased capability of your brain to learn, improved body composition and much better sleep.

Before doing any aerobic exercise don't forget to warm up.

Warmed muscle tissue is less likely to be strained or damaged. Warming up before doing exercise will also make your body ready for more vigorous training.

At the end of your aerobic training don't forget to cool off.

Cooling off periods minimize the chances of you passing out after exercise has been completed. If your running comes to an abrupt end, blood will pour into your legs in large quantities and there will be less blood available for your brain.

Cooling off periods assist the return of blood to the heart. Cooling off periods also scale down muscle irritation.

Lydia Meternick is an author who has a wide spectrum of interests. She writes about an array of topics and her latest blog is focused on Sole f80 treadmill, a fitness machine which gives people an opportunity to exercise within the comfort of their homes.


Original article

How Much Cardio to Lose 10 lb?

Achieving the goal of getting perfect abs fast depends largely on your mindset and your attitude. In the realistic sense of things, it is not easy to get ripped in a week, even with your contour abs belt, slender tone belt or the flex belt. You need patience, not just a quick fix. We want things now and at no extra cost. Having the right mental attitude will assist you to achieve almost anything you desire. So it depends on how you look at it, if you want something badly enough then it should be worth the sacrifice.

In my training life, I find that water plays a major role in reducing extra or unwanted belly fat. Here is a skill I constantly use to keep up with the water intake process in my system. Set a time for when you want to take your first glass of water daily, I usually do it from 9:00. Drink a glass of water per hour, your goal is to drink eight glasses of water per day (i.e. 2 litters). I do not think that is a difficult thing to commit to. Drinking at least two litres of water daily helps to reduce your body fat, when you prepare for a cardio exercise, water molecules are able to reach out to the body cells and also provide you with energy.

Do not lose focus; you are certainly heading for a perfect six pack and a lean sexy body. Make sure that you can keep up with this routine for at least three weeks. In most cases you will find that after three weeks of repeating one routine over and over again you get used to it, whether it's a new job, diet or training, it has been proven that a person can adapt to something new within three weeks. The bottom line is that you must keep doing crunches for at least three weeks, do not think that you will get rock hard abs without doing a bit of crunches here and there. Crunches help to speed up the process of getting perfect abs greatly when combined with other exercises.

The importance of drinking at least two litres of water per day is that as humans we obtain or retain eight to ten percent of the water we drink in our bodies. Water is very important in losing excess fat, lack of water can slow down your metabolic rate and with that you will have your liver burning fat whereas it should be trying to regulate and maintain certain amounts of water levels in the body. It is better for your muscles to burn belly fat because they will develop into the six pack abs you have dreamt about for so long.

This article was written by Ernest Mokoatle the owner of Perfect Abs HQ.
How to get perfect abs


Original article

P90X Weight Loss DVD Review: A Step-By-Step Dissection

Infomercials have influenced the outlook of many people around the world, as some digital products have been changing the lives in these recent few years. Many users have been following some popular digital products and reported to accomplish better living. Well, the product that has changed the perceptions in the weight loss industry today is better known as the P90X weight loss DVD program. This is certainly the most popular weight loss program across the globe at this moment. This product comes with a well-equipped guidance system that can help anyone to accomplish the goal of losing weight successfully without exerting dangerous effects to the body.

Insider secrets of the P90X DVD program

As the users have reported, the product has been successful in implementing discipline that helps. There are specific descriptions of the procedures that you will need to follow during the course. The comprehensiveness and easy-to-follow modules make this product an ultimate success in this field. But as a new user or a potential consumer, you might have a few questions in your mind, such as how much weight will you lose, what type of diet this product suggests etc. Let's discover the insider secrets and learn about the product thoroughly.

I assume that you have already ordered the product from Amazon.com and your mail has hit your mailbox. Once you unpack, you will get 13 P90X weight loss DVDs in a small little case that you will need to follow through next 90 days. Try to keep them together and in an arranged way to get things organized and smoother.

What's inside the box: P90X DVD program?

Then you will come across the overview book explaining everything of the program. You will have the exercising methods; nutrition plan and everything you might need for the program in that book. This should be your companion while you are following the P90X weight loss DVD through these 90 days.

There are also a few add-ons inside the box. You will get a food guide and a tracking chart to provide administrative support while executing the method. The product is comprehensive and equipped very well for anyone interested in losing weight in a systematic way. For the starters, the creator of the product has suggested a pull up bar or resistance bands to get the initiative. Dumbbells and traditional exercising equipments can also help. Once you have prepared yourself for an active 90 days, you can start and follow watching the P90X weight loss DVD from day 1.

Weight Loss Reviews provides unbiased reviews and advise regarding the benefits of the P90X weight loss program.


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Interval Training on the Treadmill

Are you on a mission to lose weight? If this is so and you are serious about it your workouts probably involve some sort of treadmill exercises. The treadmill can be a great machine to aid in your weight loss goals. Treadmill training is popular because of the fact that it is relatively easy to buy and install a treadmill at your home. Let's say you get this brand new treadmill and are ready to begin your workout routines. You do a conventional treadmill workout for a couple weeks and are becoming bored with it. It now may be the time to start doing some interval training on treadmill type exercises.

Just by alternating the settings on your treadmill can give your muscles the variance and workout they need. In order for workouts to reach maximum effectiveness you must expose your muscles to different intensity levels within the same workout. Interval training on the treadmill accomplishes this goal. Try starting at your slow to moderate pace in your warm up and then increase the speed of the treadmill as you advance in the stages of the workout. By doing this you are performing a very basic interval type workout.

The key to any interval training on a treadmill is to vary not only the actual speed of the treadmill, but the incline and decline functions as well. Essentially your goal is to incorporate periods of both high intensity and low intensity within the same workout routine. With that said, there is no real standard interval treadmill training. Your workouts should be geared towards whatever you feel comfortable doing. We all work out with different goals in mind and those play the biggest role in determining how your specific interval training should be mapped out.

You will see that as you progress you will actually see yourself looking forward to your next treadmill routine with great anticipation. Why is this? This is because interval training on a treadmill is always changing and it is a natural human condition to be drawn to anything that is diverse and constantly changing rather than to be drawn to something that is very static and outright boring. After you see the results these workouts have as far as calories burned you will find yourself looking to get back on that treadmill as well.

Since any workout regimen is going to include a heavy dose of cardio type exercises you might as well make those parts of your workout as successful as possible. One of the great ways you can accomplish this is by interval training on treadmill type exercises. This type of training can be done at any time that you normally do your cardio workout, if you workout for 20 minutes, you could begin at a low intensity for 3 to 5 minutes then increase to at higher intensity for 3 to 5 minutes following this cycle for the entire workout. The time shown can be easily modified depending on your fitness level by decreasing or increasing the time for either low or high intensity.

What is good about this type of interval training, it can be used by the beginner or athlete who wants to increase their cardiovascular endurance or burn calories. As with all cardio exercises stay within your capabilities and do not exhaust yourself, stay within your target heart rate range to get the best benefit from interval training on the treadmill.

Find out more information to increase your health and fitness levels at;
http://www.fitnessexercisenow.com/


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