Sep 30, 2011

Ten Foods That Will Give You Energy

  It happens to all of us and it happens to the best of us; that mid-morning feeling of dread when you can hardly keep your eyes open or that 3:00 pm fight to keep your eyelids open.

  Instead of reaching for another cup o’ Joe why not eat a food full of ingredients that will give you energy? We have found the ten best foods for energy:

  Whole grains such as whole grain breads and rice.

  Oatmeal is a great source of energy because oats are the best source of energy.

  Bananas are all potassium. Potassium helps your muscles contract. Therefore, bananas are great energy boosters.

  Orange Juice has Vitamin C. Any questions?

  Salmon is very high in protein.

  Beans have everything you need for energy; protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

  Dried Fruit is the perfect high energy and low fat snack.

  Almonds are actually the most nutrient dense food. Perfect for energy.

  Yogurt is full of protein and carbs which are exactly the combination you need for a burst of mid-morning energy.

  While it gives you energy at first it will eventually bring you crashing down and that is pasta.

Sep 29, 2011

Tips on How to Lose Water Weight

  Many people want to learn how to lose water weight, and it’s actually not a bad idea for the short term. There is only so much water stored in your body at any one time, so it is important to remember that this cannot be looked at as a long term solution.

  While you will likely be able to cut some weight rather quickly by removing some water, you will need to do more than that to keep the weight off your body for good.

  While this is the general philosophy on cutting water out of your body, there is also the argument that you can try to control how much water is in your body at any one time.

  You basically need to tell your body how much water you want to maintain at any given time and try to regulate the amount of water you are putting into your body.

  When it comes down to it, you just need to tell your body that you don’t need to hold on to excess water for too long. If you want to know about losing water weight fast, then you’ve come to the right place.

  How to lose water weight – drink more water

  It may seem like quite a paradox, but one of the best ways to lower the amount of water that is going to be in your body at all times is to drink as much water as possible.

  Your body holds on to water if it thinks it will not get more anytime soon, so you need to let your body know that you are living in an environment where there is plenty of water around.

  When your body realizes that it can pretty much get as much water as it wants at any time, it will begin to store less of it because it will know more will be on the way. Someone with a lot of water weight in their body tends to actually not drink a lot of water.

  Drinking many glasses of water per day is very healthy for your body, and it can help you learn how to lose water weight much faster than you ever have before.

  Ways to lose water weight – avoid sodium

  Sodium and salt will definitely make your body retain more water. If you want to cut some of the water weight in your body, then you will want to avoid foods with salt as much as possible. If you are the kind of person that tends to put a lot of salt on their food, then that is probably one of the reasons why you are retaining so much water.

  If you want your body to get rid of that excess water, you need to cut the salt and let the water flow right through your body. Anyone who wants to know how to lose water weight needs to look no further than how much water they drink and what kinds of food they eat.

  If you are consuming a lot of salt, then drinking a lot of water will actually not work in telling your body to not hold onto the water so much.

Sep 27, 2011

Why Do I Have Muscle Aches in Legs

If you have some muscle aches in legs, then you probably also exercised for the first time in a while the other day. These muscle aches should not be viewed as a problem, and they are actually a good sign as long as they don’t become too severe. Most people simply do not exercise enough, and that is why they often feel rather sore a day or two after going to the gym.
If you want to stop getting those muscle aches in legs, then you need to get more exercise for your legs on a regular basis. It may seem quite strange, but exercising the affected regions is really the only way to take care of your sore muscle problem over the long term. As you build up more muscle in your legs, it will become easier to complete your workouts and you won’t feel as sore as you used to.


Getting muscles aches in your legs becomes more common once you get into your older years, and this is mainly caused by a large amount of inactivity once you get to a certain age.
You have to keep exercising into your later years if you want to avoid joint and muscle pain, so don’t think you can just stop working out at a certain point in time.
You need to keep exercising as you get older if you want to avoid feeling sore every time you get up to go to the fridge.
Exercises to get rid of your muscle aches in legs
You will need to do plenty of exercises on a regular basis if you want to get rid of your muscle aches in legs. Depending on your age, there are loads of different exercises you can do that focus on the legs, and just going for a walk every day will be enough for some people to avoid pain in their legs. The younger crowd will want to stick with leg lifts if the proper machinery is available; if not, you could always go for a morning jog when you wake up every day.
Doctors recommend getting about thirty minutes of exercise every day, so that’s what you should be shooting for when you are trying to avoid muscle pains. It will be hard to keep your exercise routinegoing at first, but you need to push through those first few tough weeks so you can reach your goals. If you aren’t willing to feel a little pain in the beginning, then you will never be able to get rid of your muscle pain.
Get rid of pain by going through painful workouts
It sounds quite strange to many people, but one of the best ways to get rid of muscle aches in legs is to do exercises that tire your legs out to the point of hurting. If your legs don’t hurt the day after doing a workout, then you are not pushing your body hard enough when you exercise

Sep 26, 2011

The Perfect Equipment For All Workouts At Any Fitness Level

  However, for effective results, practice with your new total gym fitness at least fifteen to twenty minutes a day for about three to four times a week. With regular exercising, you will find that you have gained a new energy and a new tolerance.


  With total gym fitness, you can try some of these exercises:


  An arm pullover is best when you are trying to concentrate on your shoulders [Shoulder Exercises], triceps [Tricep Exercises], back, and lower abs. To perform this, lie on the gym fitness board with your knees dragged to the lower body and grasp the pulley with your both hands insanity workout dvd sale.


  Now, pull yourself toward the top level of the board. Repeat the arm pull over exercise ten times a day to see effective results.


  To improve your lower abs, lower back and upper back, try to perform a twister. Begin this exercise by sitting at the top of the gym board and holding pulley in the hand.


  By using both arms at greatest level of resistance, pull from one side to another side. You can see improved results if you try this exercise ten times a day regularly.


  Leg pull is the best fitness exercise of total gym fitness to improve your calves, lower abs, upper abs, and hamstrings. To practice leg pull, lay at the bottom of the fitness board keeping your legs toward the top. Hook your legs in the pulley.


  By using your leg muscles (only), pull your body to the top of the total gym fitness equipment. Repeat this exercise regularly ten times a day.

Sep 23, 2011

2 Exercises That Mostly Require Machines

  Weight training can be expensive and you might find yourself short on money at times.


  Barbells and weights might seem like a very economical choice since the barbell can be used for a huge variety of exercises.


  But unfortunately, there are some exercises that just can't get by without some type of extra equipment.


  Worst still, many of these exercises serve as the only way to strengthen certain muscles.


  Because of this, weight trainers need to be prepared to shell out some money for these weight training machines.


  The bench press


  The bench press is an essential piece of equipment for those who want to strengthen their chest muscles. On the bench press, you can develop a powerful chest by placing the barbell on your chest and lifting the barbell in the air.


  The bench press is also an excellent addition to the weight training room because you can use it for resting and performing other exercises. This bench press can range from 150 to 200 dollars depending on the complexity.


  Can you get by without it?


  The bench press gives you a convenient rack for placing your barbell, making it much easier to start each exercise.


  This allows you to safely perform the bench press by allowing you to place the barbell on the rack when you are physically exhausted.insanity workout dvd sale You might be able to substitute the barbell for dumbbells.


  The chest can be strengthened by pushing both dumbbells in the air in the same way that you would lift the barbell.


  If you can find an object that you can lie on with both sides open, you will be able to drop the dumbbells on the floor once you are done with them. Of course, make sure that there is a mat beneath so that you don't damage your floor.


  Leg extension machine


  The leg extension machine is a hinged machine that allows you to perform both the leg extension and leg curl exercises. The leg extension works muscles in the front of your leg.


  These muscles are almost impossible to work out without the leg extension machine because you will not be able to balance weights with your legs.


  The leg curls are almost impossible without the leg extension machine because the motion that you are required to perform is very awkward when performed any other way. Placing weights on the backs of your legs would be very dangerous and almost impossible to balance.


  Can you get by without it?


  You might be able to make some progress if you buy ankle weights. Ankle weights are cheaper than the leg extension machine and are Velcroed to your ankles.


  The only downside to these ankle weights is that you will not be able to lift as much, since these ankle weights mostly only go up to 20 pounds each. But if all you're aiming for is muscle tone, these are a worthwhile alternative.

Sep 22, 2011

Is eBay A Good Place To Look For Fitness Equipment?

  eBay is very effective at providing low cost solutions and products to just about every consumer item in the world, and with millions of daily listings perhaps it is for you as well.


  However, you may be wondering if eBay is worthwhile for purchasing fitness equipment from.


  The answer is a tentative yes, as there are a few factors that may not make it the best place to shop, including time, bidding wars, and on occasion high shipping costs given fitness equipment tends to be heavy cheap insanity workout dvd.


  However, this aside, eBay can be a great place to find fitness equipment if you know how to shop the popular site.



  When you first head to eBay you will notice that there are over a million items on average listed under the eBay category of "sports" that is broken down further into the "sporting goods" subcategory and from there into "exercise and fitness" which is where you want to be.


  There are six more subcategories from here, but if you have reached the 'exercise and fitness' category then you are on the right track to finding the best exercise equipment you most likely want.


  Here you can find anything from seven to ten thousand items once again depending on when you log in. On a random day eBay was tested to see how great the deals were, and here is the breakdown of the results:


  The first product researched was the Total Trainer device which goes for a retail price around $500. On eBay it was advertised for Buy It Now (which means you do not have to bid, but can purchase for this price) at $277. The result, even with high shipping costs you are still going to save a lot on this product.


  Next product: Jolie Weights. Retail price of these weights is $19.99, but online they sell for $14.99. However, add in the shipping and you will probably end up spending about the same price so unless you get a great shipping rate you probably will not save much.


  This is the typical result of a search on eBay for fitness equipment and pretty much everything else. Sometimes you score big, especially when high priced items, and sometimes you break even.


  Thus, you should also shop eBay with a basic knowledge of what constitutes a great deal and protect yourself by always checking seller rankings and carefully reading product specifications to make sure you get exactly what you expect, and most of all you need to know shipping costs, especially for heavy items.

Sep 21, 2011

Get The Best Fitness Machines From These Top Places

  If there's one thing people treasure the most, it is their health. Good health is the key to a better and longer life.


  It will not come as a surprise if you see many people going to the gym everyday or doing their regular exercises outdoors and at home.


  However, there are those who are no longer able to take care of their body due to heir busy lifestyle. If you are one of them, insanity dvd workout the best thing you should do is to buy your own fitness machines.


  Fitness machines are those which people often use when they exercise. They are designed to help you become stronger, slimmer, and healthier. Fitness machines come in different designs and styles.


  There are those which are suitable in improving your cardiovascular endurance and stamina like theexercise bike, treadmill, and ski machines.


  Meanwhile, if you want fitness machines that provide a whole body workout, you may consider buying arowing machine or a cross trainer which is a combination of a rowing machine, stepper, and treadmill rolled into one.


  There are so many fitness machines to choose from and they are all beneficial for your health. The question now is, where can buy one for your home gym?


  There is no need to worry since fitness machines are not so hard to find. Here are the top places where you can find amazing deals on fitness machines.


  Fitness and exercise stores


  The first places you have to look into are fitness and exercise stores. You will find a wide selection of fitness machines from these stores. Further, you can also find exercise equipment and accessories which can aid you in your routine.


  Moreover, they are available on sale, which you can purchase at very low prices. They also come with free instructional and exercise videos and a warranty.


  Online health stores


  If you are too busy to look for fitness machines in malls, you can look them up online. There are online health stores that offer them at reasonable prices. The sites will provide you pictures, specs, and prices of these fitness machines.


  There are some that offer free shipping and even a money back guarantee. On the other hand, there are also individuals who sell second hand fitness machines and they advertise through the internet. You can buy a good one at an amazingly low price.


  Gym


  There are cases when the gym has to close or needs to buy more modern facilities. You may be lucky enough to buy some of their fitness machines which are still in good working condition at very low prices.


  Just check the machines carefully before buying since some of them had been used for several years.


  Wherever you want to buy your fitness machines, make sure that they are worth every penny. You must always ask a specialist before buying one so you can tell which ones are appropriate for you or not. Moreover, try them out first before buying them and check for damages.

Sep 20, 2011

Resistance Band Exercises

  Do you want to work out, but don't have a lot of space for weights or machines? Resistance band workout may be your solution. They allow you to exercise your muscles in the comfort of your own home.


  Resistance bands were originally used in physical therapy settings and for the elderly, but have since been adopted into the mainstream fitness community.


  



  Resistance bands are made from rubber tubing that is attached with handles. As you pull the handles, the tension on the rubber tube increases. The tension on these thick bands creates resistance against your muscles.


  Benefits of Resistance Band Workout


  Cost


  Resistance bands are an economical way to get into shape. They are less expensive than free weights and home gyms. A set of resistance bands costs anywhere from $7 to $20, depending on the resistance level.


  On the contrary, home gyms often start around $200 and can cost up to $5000, depending on the added options.


  A good free weight bench with weights usually costs $200 and up. This price can fluctuate depending on the size and style of the bench, as well as the amount and type of weights that are purchased.


  Space


  Many people don't have the space for an elaborate home gym or for a set of free weights.


  Resistance bands take up virtually no space, and they can be used anywhere. You could easily put them in your suitcase and work out in the privacy of your hotel room.


  Storage is also easy. They can be stored in a dresser drawer, closet, or just about anywhere that you choose.


  Variety


  A resistance band routine will allow you to add diversity to your current strength training program. This will help combat any dullness that can be experienced from a daily routine. There are almost countless exercises that you can perform with resistance bands.


  Safety


  People will sometimes get hurt using free weights, due to the lack of support during the movement of the weights. The tension of the resistance bands reduces the chances of injury, because you maintain constant pressure during the entire range of motion.


  homefitnessplans


  Resistance bands are color coded for specific tension levels. The resistance ranges from light to very heavy.


  Large muscles in the legs and chest require more resistance than some of the smaller muscles in your body. For this reason, it is best to purchase at least 3 different color bands. The tension of the bands that you decide to purchase will ultimately depend on your current fitness level.


  Some resistance band manufacturers will sell interchangeable handles for various bands. Keep it simple and buy bands where you don't have to switch the handles between exercises.


  Most bands also come with accessories. Door attachments allow you to attach the band to a door for certain exercises. Ankle cuffs are also available to assist in some leg exercises. You may even want to purchase an exercise CD that outlines various resistance band workouts.

Sep 19, 2011

Safe Shoulder Exercises


The following exercise will help build a foundation to improve athletic performance, while minimizing the chance of injury to the shoulder.


  These movements will also help isolate and strengthen your rotator cuff muscles.


  1. Isometric Movements


  Start in a standing position and raise your right arm at your side to shoulder height and bend your elbow 90 degrees.


  Have a partner provide resistance on your wrist and elbow, while you try to internally rotate your arm. Hold this position for 15 seconds, and then relax. Do this same movement with your left arm.


  For the next exercise, remain in the standing position and internally rotate your right arm so that your forearm is at a 45 degree angle with the floor. In this position, your partner will provide resistance against your wrist and elbow.


  Hold this position for 15 seconds, and then relax. Do this same movement with your left arm.


  2. External Rotation Exercise


  Start this exercise in a face down position on a bench with a light dumbbell in your right hand. With your elbow extended off the bench, flex it 90 degrees, so that your forearm pulls downward.


  In this position, externally rotate your arm so that your forearm is parallel with the ground, and then move it back to the starting position.


  Perform 15 repetitions of this exercise with both arms.


  3. Seated Rotation Exercise


  Start this exercise in a seated position with a dumbbell in your right hand. Hold the dumbbell vertically out in front of your body with your elbow bent.


  In this position, rotate your arm up and towards your right side. Perform 15 repetitions of this exercise with both arms.


  4. Lateral raise


  Start this exercise in a standing position with a dumbbell in your right hand. Slowly raise your right arm with the dumbbell until it is level with your shoulder, and then lower it back to your side. Perform 15 repetitions of this exercise with both arms.


  Avoid These Exercises to Avoid Shoulder Injury


  First and foremost, remember that your shoulder muscles are easily prone to injury from overuse. Unlike some of the major muscles Fitness blog of the body that can require a dedicated day of training, the shoulders can be effectively trained by incorporating exercises into your existing routine.


  1. Wide Grip Bench Press


  Wide grip presses can often lead to shoulder impingement. When performing a bench press movement, keep your elbows tucked close to your sides. Your elbows should remain in a straight line with your shoulders. This will decrease the strain on your shoulder muscles during the movement.


  2. Behind the Neck Shoulder Press


  Many overhead movements increase your chances of shoulder injury. If you decide to incorporate an overhead press movement, its best to avoid lifting weight behind the neck.


  This range of motion often increases the stress on the muscles and joints of the shoulders. Instead of bringing the weight down onto your shoulders, you can press it from your chest.


  3. Upright Rows


  This exercise should also be avoided by anyone with shoulder pain. During this movement, your shoulder is placed in an internally rotated manner. This position puts undue stress on the shoulder and can result in impingement.

Sep 18, 2011

Get Fit With a Hula Hoop

  Many people often give up on their exercise programs because of boredom. Exercise doesn't always have to be a chore. According to a Harvard Medical School study, only 18% of Americans meet the weekly recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate physical activity.


  This lack of exercise can increase your odds for heart disease, diabetes, and a host of several other medical conditions. There are many ways to incorporate some sort of exercise into your schedule. The key is to try to make your workout challenging and fun at the same time.


This is where the hula hoop comes in to play. Made popular in the 1950s as a child's toy, the hula hoop has been rediscovered by the fitness community.


  A hula hoop and a little upbeat music can turn your dull workout into an exciting way to get into shape.


  Types of Hula Hoops


  Traditional Hoop


  These hula hoops are the light weight plastic hoops that are commonly used as children's toys. While these can be utilized for exercise, they are often difficult for adults to use; they also don't always provide the same benefits as a weighted hula hoop.


  Weighted Hula Hoop


  A typical weighted hula hoop jeson_WorkOut weighs between one and five pounds. They are larger in size than most children's plastic hoops and measure around 38 to 42 inches.


  Before you purchase one of these hula hoops, make sure to pick one that is right for your size. The American Council of Exercise recommends a hula hoop exercise that reaches somewhere between your waist and chest when measured vertically from the ground.


  Also, keep in mind that the heavier the hula hoop is, the easier it is to keep going. Lighter hoops will take more energy to keep going.


  If you choose to work out with a weighted hula hoop, they can be found at most fitness stores.

Sep 17, 2011

Diet and Mood Changes

  What you decide to eat can play an important role on your emotional state of mind. Research has revealed that what you eat and when you eat can help to determine how you feel throughout the day.


  People consume food for a variety of reasons. While the primary reason we eat is to provide caloric intake and energy for daily activity, sometimes people will eat "comfort" food during times of stress.


  



workout online-insanity workout online

People have also used food as a social medium for thousands of years in many cultures.


  Celebrations and other large events are often centered on some type of feast. It's evident that food can have powerful social aspects, but how can certain nutrients from food we eat affect our mood changes? Let's have a look.


  The Glycemic Index


  According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the glycemic index is a measurement of the effects that carbohydrates have on blood sugars in the body.


  Foods that rate high on this index are typically higher in carbohydrates and simple sugars. A low glycemic index food releases glucose more slowly into your bloodstream.


  When blood sugars are high, you will experience increased energy and often elevated mood. Conversely, when blood sugars are low, energy levels usually decline along with a decrease in mood. Foods that cause a stable blood sugar can often help to prevent this unstable shift in moods.


  Today, the use of many energy drinks and supplements is on the rise. These drinks and supplements can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar.


  While this may cause a temporary elevation of mood along with increased energy, too often the feelings are short in duration, and are followed by a decrease in blood sugar. This usually results in a rapid energy decrease and a decline in mood.


  Timing of Meals


  When you skip a meal, your blood sugar can drop. This often results in feeling lethargic and tired. To avoid this undesirable condition, eat small frequent meals and snacks throughout the day.


  Additionally, when you eat meals on an empty stomach, you're more likely to notice changes in mood.


  What to Eat


  The ideal food will provide effective nutrients that will give you the necessary caloric intake and at the same time help stabilize your mood. According to Dr. Richard Wurtman of MIT, certain nutrients in foods can affect the neurotransmitters in our brains.


  According to Dr. Wurtman's research, these brain chemicals transmit messages between nerve cells that are responsible for mood and performance. Simple adjustments to the following diet components can have a profound impact on the way you feel throughout the day:


  Protein


  Protein breaks down in our bodies in the form of amino acids. Foods high in protein, such as eggs, meat, fish and milk increase an amino acid known as tyrosine.


  According to the Mayo Clinic, tyrosine can increase production of dopamine. This pleasure hormone helps to ease stress and anxiety. Tyrosine also increases norepinephrine. This neurotransmitter helps to keep your mind sharp and alert.


  Harvard psychiatrist, Dr. Alan Gelenberg conducted research that revealed that norepinephrine can also help to regulate mood changes and control depression.


  Tryptophan


  Foods that are high in protein also contain the essential amino acid tryptophan. This amino acid can increase serotonin levels in the brain. The Mayo Clinic says that serotonin is a neurotransmitter that can have a calming effect and helps to play an active role in sleep.


  This explains why you want to crash on the couch after your Thanksgiving feast. Poultry such as turkey are high in tryptophan.


  Another possible benefit of tryptophan is that it can help people who are in pain. A Temple University study showed that patients who were suffering from chronic facial pain experienced significant pain relief when treated with tryptophan.


  Folic Acid


  Foods that are rich in folic acid such as fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts have been known to help combat depression. According to the University of Minnesota, many people who suffer from depression have low levels of folic acid in the body.


  Low levels of folic acid can cause serotonin levels in the brain to drop. Research has indicated that as little as 200 micrograms is enough to spike folic acid levels. This can easily be obtained from just one glass of orange juice.


  Problem Foods


  Foods that contribute to blood sugar spikes should be minimized or avoided. Limit your intake of sugar, corn syrup and other sugar like substances.


  Also avoid excessive intake of foods that are high in fat. Along with the obvious cardiac issues, these foods can cause inflammation in the body and lead to a feeling of sluggishness.

Sep 16, 2011

Mixed Martial Arts Training Routines

  Mixed martial arts fighters need to be in top physical shape to withstand the demands of their sport. Elite MMA fighters undergo daily grueling conditioning to allow them to fight effectively during competition.


  MMA fighters often train in a variety of fighting disciplines such as: wrestling, boxing, kickboxing, jujitsu and other forms of martial arts. This multidisciplinary approach helps to make the athlete a well-rounded fighter.


  



While it's important for these athletes to train in a variety of fighting disciplines, it is equally important to maintain a well-rounded physical fitness program.


  It doesn't matter how well you fight, if you lack endurance. A fighter who is not in physical shape will quickly run out of steam during competition.


  Explosive strength is also another important ingredient in a fighter's fitness repertoire. During a bout, the fighter will rely on speed and strength during many situations.


  You don't have to be a professional fighter to get into fighting shape; however, by following a fighter's workout routine, you can still benefit from the positive physical attributes that are associated with this type of intense training.


  An MMA training routine is a full body functional program that incorporates the crucial fitness components of cardiovascular endurance, explosive speed, strength and flexibility.


  Cardio for Mixed Martial Arts Training


  Experienced fighters will tell you that stamina and cardiovascular endurance is one of the most import factors of MMA training. In order to improve endurance, fighters must increase their VO2 Max. The VO2 Max, otherwise known as the Maximal Oxygen Uptake is the widely accepted measurement of how much oxygen your heart can transport to your lungs during physical activity.


  MMA fighters with higher VO2 Max measurements will typically be able to last through the multiple five minute rounds that their sport demands.


  Roadwork to Mixed Martial Arts Training


  To build endurance, fighters participate in daily running sessions, otherwise known as "roadwork." These routines are usually split into jogging and interval sessions. Here's an example of a weekly running program:


  Monday - Jog for 30 minutes at a comfortable pace.


  Tuesday - Jog 100 yards, and then sprint for 30 yards. Perform this interval 4 to 6 times.


  Wednesday - Run 3 miles at 60% to 70% of your maximum heart rate.


  Thursday - Jog 40 yards, followed by 100 yard sprints. Perform this interval 4 to 5


  times.


  Friday - Run 3 to 5 miles at 60% to 70% of your maximum heart rate.


  To incorporate the principles of cross-training, you can substitute other exercises on some of the running days. For example, you can substitute cycling, swimming, or elliptical training to give your muscles and joints sufficient time to rest.


  Plyometrics


  Plyometrics allow the fighter to utilize explosive speed and power during a bout. Whether throwing a series of quick punches or performing a takedown, speed and power are crucial ingredients for a fighter.


  Plyometrics incorporate full body movements such as jumping onto a box and then back down to the ground, or performing a jump squat while carrying weight. These movements are often sports specific; however, due to the demands placed in your joints, these exercises should be done with caution.


  If you decide to add a plyometric routine to yout workout, make sure you get at least 24 hours of rest between workouts.


  Strength Training Routine


  Along with the proper form, and effective MMA athlete needs to be able to utilize brute strength to force opponents into various movements during the fight. Compound exercises should be the bread and butter of any effective strength training routine. This will help build overall body strength in the quickest amount of time.


  Here is an example of a simple, yet effective weekly MMA strength training routine:


  Monday - Bench Press - 4 sets of 10 reps


  Incline Bench - 3 sets of 8 to 10 reps


  Squats - 4 sets of 8 to 10 reps


  Tuesday - Rest


  Wednesday - Leg press - four sets of 8 to 10 reps


  Military press - 4 sets of 8 to 10 reps


  Curls - 2 sets of 8 to 10 reps


  Thursday - Rest


  Friday - Dead lifts - 4 sets of 8 to 10 reps


  Leg extensions - 3 sets of 8 to 10 reps


  Saturday - Rest


  Sunday - Rest


  Exercises in the above workout plan can be substituted with other movements. There are a wide variety of additional exercises that are frequently utilized by MMA fighters such as:


  Medicine ball sizes


  Sledgehammer training


  Tire flipping


  Resistance band training


  Yoga ball exercises

Free Weights and Machine Weights can both be used

  Free Weights and Machine Weights can both be used as you want to strengthen and build muscle. Free Weights and Machine Weights are both very effective however there are advantages and disadvantages to using Free Weights or Machine Weights.


  If you are a beginner to working out with weights then in general using Machine Weights are better and as you become more of an intermediate to advanced Free Weights can be better however you can use both Free Weights and Machine Weights in your weight training routine.


   Workout PlanA



FREE WEIGHTS - ADVANTAGES


  Free Weights are more versatile and allow you to perform hundreds of exercises to work all the muscle groups in your body.


  As you workout targeted muscles using Free Weights additional muscle groups are also worked out to stabilize your body as you work the targeted muscles.


  Using Free Weights will help you increase your balance and coordination as you need to keep your body stable to keep a good posture during the exercise.


  Free Weights take up less room and cost less than Machine Weights.


  FREE WEIGHTS - DISADVANTAGES


  Lifting heavy weights without a spotter or without maintaining proper posture increases your chances of getting injured.


  Using Free Weights can increase your workout time as you will need to spend time adding or removing weights plates to barbells or dumbbells for different exercises.


  You need to have more control and focus using Free Weights as you will be supporting the Free Weights completely on your own.


  DUMBBELLS VS BARBELLS


  Barbells will allow you to lift more weight with both hands simultaneously. Dumbbells on the other hand will allow you to balance the strength in each arm correctly and you can do many more types of exercises using dumbbells.


  



MACHINE WEIGHTS - ADVANTAGES


  Machine Weights are generally safer than Free Weights. As you are not holing the actual weights there is no change of you dropping the weights onto yourself allowing you to workout on your own without a spotter.


  Most Machine Weights are very simple to use. You select the weight by inserting the pin into the weight stack and away you go.


  Machine Weights allow you to target specific muscle groups without using other muscle groups to the same extent you would using Free Weights.


  Machine Weights help guide and control your movements, making it easier to maintain proper posture as you are forced to using the Machine Weights in a specific manner.


  You can usually complete your workout in a shorter time as you will not be fiddling with weight plates. To increase or decrease the weight simply pull the pin out from the weight stack a push into a different weight.


  MACHINE WEIGHTS - DISADVANTAGES


  If you are much bigger or much smaller than the average person, you may have trouble positioning your body in the correct manner on the Machine to use it properly. Most machines are not designed for people under 5'5".


  Exercises using Machine Weights usually involve working the muscles on both sides of your body at once. If one side of your body is stronger than the other you may end up lifting more weight from your stronger side on the machine. This will not help you balance your body strength.


  As you are using a Machine Weight you are limited to a specific movement which only allows you to perform one specific workout.


  Machine Weights can be expensive and bulky, which can make them impractical for home use if you have a tight budget or limited space.

Sep 15, 2011

There are numerous different techniques that are said

  There are numerous different techniques that are said to offer you the great results you are looking for, and one of them is the split routine. This means that you split the muscles into groups, and work on them separately. This way you will be able to work more intensely with each of them, since the exercise has a smaller area to cover.


  There are some fitness experts who do not suggest the majority of people to use split workoutbecause not many of us are gifted with being able to do fast recovery. Their concerns should be taken into consideration since one of the most common mistakes that people make is overtraining.


  


split routine

Workout Plan


Nonetheless in the most of the cases the split routine could be effectively used by the majority of the trainers. The thing that you should keep an eye out for when using this technique is the way that your body reacts to the training.


  In case there is some soreness or tightness in the muscles, it is clear indication that the given group is not ready to be trained again, directly, or indirectly.


  In case of the beginners as well as in case of the intermediates the best solution is to be performing split exercises regarding a certain muscle group once a week.


  There have been some studies showing that the split routines could offer as many benefits as the full-body single-set routines. If you would like to have some changes, you could also add a full-body routine twice a week so that things won't get boring.


  You could choose some split exercises to get your entire body moving, with the most muscle groups possible. You shouldn't think that the best solution for beginners is to use the split workout routines, because this idea that is considered to be common knowledge isn't backed up by scientific evidence.


  One of the most important things to keep in mind regarding split exercises is that you shouldn't be training the same muscle group all over again. As an example you may do some bench presses that target the pecks but in the same time these exercises work the triceps too.


  For the next exercise you shouldn't move on to pushups because they also work the triceps which most probably aren't recovered yet and you will just over train them that is a waste of time.


  To solve this problem you should choose some exercises that work those muscles that co-habitat nicely or to train those muscles that have nothing to do with each other. As an example one day you could be training your triceps and in the other day your hams.


  It is interesting to know regarding these split workouts that there are some muscles that need less recovery time, like the muscles of the upper body because of the fibers that the muscles are made of, so there should be no problem if you have some crossovers.


  The legs are less likely to handle intensive workout, so you shouldn't forget this when making your plans for split routine.

Sep 13, 2011

Those not currently on any kind of fitness routines

  Those not currently on any kind of fitness routines, may find it difficult to make a start. There is so much information out there about what is best or what will give you the best results, that the information overload can be confusing.


  


fitness routines

Making a start on any fitness routines, whether it be for health reasons, or to lose weight, need not be difficult or complicated. Read on to see some simple and easy fitness routines that can be easily incorporated into a regular day -


  Brisk Walking - no matter what the fitness experts say you need to do to get fit, and no matter what the equipment manufacturers say you need to buy, the fact is that one of the most effective fitness routines ever, requires nothing more than a long stretch of road or terrain and your own two legs.


  This may be the easiest start to make. If you are really out of condition, start with as little as 20 minutes a day, or walking as fast as you are comfortable with.


  Slowly work your way up in terms of speed and distance; aim for 45 minutes of brisk walking a day and see what a difference these simple fitness routines can make for you.


  Swimming - If for some reason you don't enjoy walking, or due to some reason you are unable to or have been advised against walking, then another exercise that makes up of one the best fitness routines ever is swimming - low impact, no sweat, and a full body work out.


  Again start slow and take breaks if this is the first time you're going to be swimming for fitness or weight loss. Then aim for a modest 20 laps of 50 meters each which you can do in about half an hour or so, see how much better you feel and look in just a few weeks!


  Weights - One may imagine that weights are for body builders but they are not - weights are for all of us who want a strong and healthy body, strong bones and able joints now and later as well. Weight fitness routines not only help increase fitness and strength but they also help prevent problems like osteoporosis, increase endurance and body balance. Un-worked muscles can pain if you are not in the habit of using them.


  So when you first start with any weights fitness routine, you are likely to actually being in pain - those arms and shoulder muscles that you have literally challenged to work for the very first time by lifting weights, can really hurt. So it is important to give the body days of rest after the day you lift weights.


  Even when your muscles are conditioned to the lifting and have got used to it, two or three days of lifting each week could well suffice for one to get all the benefits of a weights fitness routine. Just remember to challenge yourself to lift heavy enough that you can't do more than 12 reps and light enough that you can do more than 8.

Sep 12, 2011

Human Growth Hormone Helping Fitness and workout

  HGH or humane growth hormone is naturally produced by the body in sufficient quantities till the age of 21. The production starts to drop after this and by the time a person is 80, the production of HGH falls down by 80-90%.


  This is the master hormone that is responsible for the growth of the human body. It helps build muscles, bones, organs and the basic link between the cells.


  


Growth Hormone

Low levels of HGH could mean decreased muscles, gained fat, reduced sex drive, increased cardiovascular risks and a lower life expectancy. Fitness blog


  On observation of its effects on muscles and fats, researchers have been able to confirm that lower levels of HGH could be a major hurdle for fat or obese person to lose those extra kilos.


  Studies have shown that HGH in low doses helped obese women to lose weight faster and also to keep it away longer.


  HGH increases the metabolism of the body, thus increasing the capacity of the body to burn more fat. This leads to loss in the fat content of the body but helps to retain the muscle content.


  Thus a person loses weight but not their body muscle. It also helps to increase the levels of HDL the good cholesterol, thus reducing cardiovascular risks too.


  HGH has been used by body builders for quite some time now, and is becoming popular among athletes too. It helps them to enhance their performance without having to resort to using illegal steroids.


  HGH can be taken in very low volumes and can be administered by the physician, thus providing it the cloak of privacy. It helps to increase the muscle mass that helps them to perform better during and after a prolonged treatment with HGH.


  This is not to say that the use of HGH is advisable for everyone. It is very essential that HGH treatments be undertaken only after consulting a doctor and only under their observation.

Sep 9, 2011

This is a compilation of some of the exercises

  This is a compilation of some of the exercises and training routines used during the last three months. Top 10 most effective workout videos of all time livestrong com i m only able to do the yoga and cardio workouts, at this time it s not easy and it s not fun and it s grueling but you can do this i haven t been doing the videos for. Workout videos total gym workout videos - free exercise video instruction buy the home fitness for exercises and diet tips. Gratuitous victoria s secret workout video no matter what body part you want to sculpt, we have workout videos to help. Abs workout video - abc news back to school stretches: pilates thigh and butt routine: strengthen your chest & back: upper back exercise for perfect posture : complete abs and upper body exercise.


  Karmichael dunbar s workout video on vimeo nextround upcoming lets you add your very own image, video, link, or list posts to nextround the best of upcoming gets promoted to nextround s front page. Fitness workouts - diet videos - dieting and weight loss - diet getting bored with the same old workout tapes choose from dance, hip hop, toning and more from this list of free online workout videos. Workout videos - fitness and exercise videos - seventeen dan kloeffler heads to fit republic for an intense ab workout. P90x workout - 1 workout system - order p90x: 1-866-492-0438 px90 workout videos from seventeen the seventeen trainer: fun workout videos this collection of exercise videos will help you lose weight and stay fit.

Foam Roller Exercises for Tight Muscles and Injuries

  Take a look at any physical therapist's office and you most likely see foam rollers. These rehabilitation devices are made of polyethylene foam and are shaped like a cylinder tube. They can be from 1 to 4 feet long and approximately 4 to 6 inches in diameter.


  Foam rollers are used in rehabilitation clinics and some gyms due to the convenience and versatility. Foam roller exercises help patients improve balance and core stability, while at the same time offer some of the deep tissue benefits of sports massage without the hefty price tag.


  


Foam Roller Exercises

(photo by mybodystudios)


  Purchasing a Foam Roller


  This simple piece of equipment comes in a couple of different sizes. For example, some rollers are up to 36 inches long while others are only 18 inches in length. Sometimes people prefer the shorter rollers if they plan on traveling with equipment.


  Foam rollers also allow for different degrees of pressure. Some rollers are hard, while others may be softer. You can pick the roller that provides an adequate amount of firmness and comfort that is suited for you.


  Benefits of a Foam Roller Exercises


  When using a foam roller, you can experience effective physical benefits in a short period of time. Despite its simplicity, the foam roller offers a variety of benefits to include:


  Stretching and lengthening of tight or overused muscles


  Improved blood circulation in your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments


  Easy to use by applying your own body weight


  Similar physical benefits as a deep tissue or myofascia massage


  Inexpensive and convenient to use


  Helps increase your body's range of motion


  Can be used for rehabilitation and exercise


  Helps to lengthen and stabilize muscles


  Imp[roves posture and balance


  Increases overall body flexibility


  How to Use the Foam Roller


  There are several different applications that the foam roller can be used for. This piece of equipment is fairly straight forward; however, it might take some practice to successfully master the proper mechanics of this fitness tool.


  Here are a few general tips to help you get started on a productive foam roller routine:


  Warm up your muscles prior to engaging in foam roller exercises


  Carefully position the foam roller under the part of your body that you want to loosen


  Don't rush through the routine; move slowly and deliberately


  Try not to roll over your bones or joints: stick to the soft tissue areas of the body


  Focus on areas where you need to increase your range of motion


  Skip a day between foam roller workouts to allow your body to rest


  Consult with a doctor or stop the activity if the roller is causing additional pain to any existing injuries


  Foam Roller Exercises


  Depending on your condition or fitness goal, you can utilize the foam roller for a wide variety of physical ailments, or as a valuable asset to your fitness repertoire.


  The following example will help you get started on a few exercises that will help with certain injuries as well as your fitness needs:


  Myofascial Release: Myofascial release is a technique that utilizes some of the soft tissue of the body's fascia. The body's fascia connects your bones, muscles, blood vessels and nerves. The fascia and muscles make up the body's myofacia system.


  Through overuse or chronic injuries, your bodies myofacia can become stuck together, which often results in pain as well as restrictive range of motion. By using the foam roller to apply direct pressure on these tight areas, you can effectively soften and release the troubled parts of the body.


  Iliotibial Band Stretch: The Iliotibial band is a tendon that runs along the outside of your hip down to your knee joint. When this tendon becomes tight, pain often results in the outer part of the knee.


  To help elleviate this pain, start by lying on the side of the effected knee with the foam roller directly on the ground beneath your leg and just below the hip.


  Bend your top leg, while keeping the bottom leg straight, and gently roll down to just above the knee area. Concentrate on the tight areas of your IT band by pausing and applying more weight to those areas. This may be painful at first, but as your IT band loosens up, the pain will decrease.


  Perform 3 sets of 15 to 20 repetitions.


  Glute Roll: Tight gluteus maximus muscles can sometimes result in decreased flexibility and can cause hip, back and knee pain.


  Start this exercise in a supine position with a foam roller positioned directly under your glutes. Slowly roll down the foam roller while stabilizing yourself with your hand flat against the ground. Stop as your get to your knee area and then roll back up to your glutes.


  Pause and apply pressure to any tight areas of your glutes and hamstring muscles. Perform 3 sets of 15 to 20 repetitions.


  Core Stabilization Exercise: Foam roller exercises can enhance overall core strength due to the foam roller's lack of stability. This movement causes the participant to utilize stabilizing muscles of the body to prevent the foam roller from slipping during activity.


  Start this exercise by lying supine on the roller with both knees bent with your feet flat on the floor. Hold your arms out at your side for balance, while contracting your abdominal muscles. Then lift both feet off the ground about 6 inches and hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds. Perform 34 sets of 10 to 15 repetitions of this exercise.

Sep 8, 2011

The following are the bodybuilding workout routines

The following are the bodybuilding workout routines to build muscle mass:
Drop sets:
Drop sets is a bodybuilding workout routine which involves doing an exercise with a set of dumbbells, putting them down, picking up the next lighter weight , and doing another set without stopping.
There are number of ways of varying this technique, for example, using the dumbbells on a rest/pause basis, doing the exercise until exhausted, putting down the weights for ten seconds, then forcing out additional reps. Another good exercise to use drop sets on is the leg extension machine.
Strip sets:
If a plate or two is removed from the weights, you can do more repetitions. Take another plate off, and you can keep going even longer. Each time you do this, you are forcing the muscles to recruit more muscle fiber. This training principle is called the Stripping Method.
Don’t use the stripping method at the beginning of an exercise when you are fresh and strong, but use it for your last set.
Since the changes in weight must be made quickly so that the muscles don’t have time to recuperate, it helps to have a workout partner ready to slip off the plates off the bar. Don’t go for weights that are too low as you won’t grow by handling lighter weights.
Negatives:
Whenever you lift a weight using the contractile force of your muscles you perform a positive movement, when you lower the weight, uncontracting the muscle you perform a negative movement.
Negative repetitions put more stress on the tendons and supportive structures than on the muscles themselves. This is beneficial because you want tendon strength to increase along with muscular strength.
Always lower the weights slowly and under control rather than letting them drop to get full benefit of negatives in your normal workout [Body building workout]. Negatives are excellent to add strength to a weak bench press.
Bench press with weight exceeding your maximal press, slowly lower the bar to your chest and with the help your partner return the bar to the starting position.
Isotension/flexing:
During the rest period between sets, you can flex and contract the muscles you are training. This not only keeps them pumped and ready for more action but also a beneficial exercise. Flexing is a form of isometric exercise and isometrics involve very intense muscle contractions.
Super sets:
A Superset is one of the bodybuilding workout routines, which consists of two or more exercises performed in a row without stopping. You can do even three exercises without stopping known as tri sets.
You can use supersets to train two different body parts one after the other. You can do a number of exercises in a row for the same body part. Weight is moderate to heavy with minimal rest between exercises. You can perform super sets on are triceps
Twenty ones:
Twenty ones is a body building technique based on the number of reps done in a given set. The set is broken up into three different sets done consecutively, within the same movement. The three different aspects of the set involve partial range of motions within a full range of motion.
Many body builders have used seven reps, hence the name ‘twenty ones (3 x 7). The exercise is done using moderate weights. Each portion of the movement is done immediately one after the other with average rest between sets.
For bicep curls, do seven partial reps from the start point to midway, followed by seven partial reps midway to the end of the movement, then do seven full range of motion standing curls to end it.
Forced reps:
Forced reps is one of the bodybuilding workout routines, which involves working the muscle group to failure. Forced reps take place with in a given set and can consist of maximal weight to failure (less reps) or light to moderate weight (high reps).
To allow full contraction of the muscle to occur, lifting partner is essential. Time required is minimal between forced reps (as long as full muscle contraction occurs) and time between sets utilizing forced reps is longer to allow greater recovery.

Sep 6, 2011

Are Weak Forearms Curtailing Your Muscle Building Progress?

It’s an important question to ask yourself, but it’s even more important you answer it honestly. For most people – particularly beginners who lack muscle building knowledge – the muscles of the forearm are among the most neglected in the entire body. Because the upper arms are the darling of all physique trainees, some people don’t put much effort (or zero direct effort) into training their forearms because they feel it’ll detract from their upper arm development. Or, they’ve bought into the idea that direct forearm training is unnecessary because they get enough forearm work from every other lift. Is forearm training really necessary and if so, how hard should you train your forearms?

You absolutely should train your forearms directly. Forearm and grip strength is critically important to almost all free weight exercises, and you will soon find yourself being held back in a big way if your forearm and grip strength is lacking.

To lift a weight properly you need to be able to grip it properly, and you also need to be able to maintain the desired wrist position – all functions of the forearms. And that’s not all – stronger forearms and grip give you much more confidence in your ability to complete a lift, which makes all the difference.

Most people eventually reach the point where forearm strength gained indirectly through other lifts won’t keep pace with the ever increasing weight and direct work needs to be done. At this point your entire workouts begin to suffer if you don’t do something about it. Powerlifters, to their credit, are very stringent when it comes to performing direct work on all different muscle groups and any powerlifter will tell you that forearm and grip strength is critical and to achieve superior forearm and grip strength direct work is definitely needed.

It’s also not enough to just have strong forearms you need to have forearms that are capable of remaining strong throughout your workout, resisting fatigue. For this reason I recommend alternating between doing heavy forearm training to build up maximum forearm strength and also slightly lighter training with much higher volume – pushing through lactic acid – to build up greater endurance. Sets of static holds in various wrist positions for prolonged time are also good, often enabling you to handle heavier weight.

A few months of this kind of work and you will really notice the difference in not just your forearms and grip, but all of your lifts.

Sep 5, 2011

Human Growth Hormone

If you have been researching your workout alternatives online you have probably come across “Human Growth Hormone” advertisements, but do you know what the risks of using Human Growth Hormone are?
The body naturally produces this hormone in the brain. Medically it may be applied to help kids grow and develop when doctors deem it necessary, but like everything else it can be abused.
Athletes, and other individuals who have no medical reason to consume the human growth hormone can see horrific and dangerous side effects. Drawn to the human growth hormone because of its physiologic effects which include increase in muscular mass these individuals put their lives at risk. On a fully developed person the human growth hormone can cause the following:
  • Increase the size of hands, feet and even the jaw.
  • It can accelerate a healthy person’s heart rate.
  • It can cause headaches and dizziness.
  • Although human growth hormone has not been directly linked to cancer doctors warn of possible connection.
There are other side effects, some good and others bad, but please do not buy attempt to buy the human growth hormone without a prescription. Federal law imposes up to 5 years of jail and a fine of $250,000 for whomever sells human growth hormone without a prescription. There may be legal consequences also for the person who buys it.
Human growth hormone is in my opinion not worth your health or your money.

Sep 4, 2011

Assisted Pull-up

STEP 1. Choose a suitable weight, then kneel or stand on the platform and grip the handles. Keep you abdominals and lower back muscles strong and slowly extend your arms until they are fully stretched. Make sure that you keep your shoulders down and retracted slightly back - this will help to keep the tension on your back muscles.

STEP 2. Keeping the movement under control and your elbows pulled down and back, pull yourself back up to the start position. Repeat for the desired number of reps.

Sep 1, 2011

Tom Hardy Diet Plan

Tom Hardy's diet is nothing crazy. He works out relentlessly so has a little more leniency to eat things like pizza and ice cream from time to time. However, the majority of the time he focused on healthier eating. He has chicken and rice on a regular basis. He uses protein shakes as well, specifically to help him build muscle mass for his roles in Bronson and Warrior.

It's likely that he's cutting a lot of calories for his role as Mad Max. He says that he's smoking and eating one meal a day to drop 30lbs. The vision for Mad Max is that of a hungry wolf...really lean and muscular but dangerous looking.

Jackknife workout

STEP 1. Get into a pushup position with tops of your feet and your shins on the ball and your hands on the floor.

STEP 2. Pull your knees close to your chest, letting the ball roll slightly forward. Keep your arms straight, and squeeze your abs hard at the top.