It's not hard to find articles about the hazards of too much sitting. If you're stuck with a job that requires lots of it, that stinks. There are things you can do to mitigate it, but the best option is to do less of it.
If you do a lot of work on a computer, you might think sitting on a Swiss ball is a good ideal. Alas, not so much. A stand-up desk can be a great option, but they tend to be expensive. Fortunately, there are improvisational options. (Click on the images to see larger versions.)
Starting a new, irregular (as in not on a regular schedule vs. just odd, although it may be that at times, too) series: "Quick Question". So if you have any (questions, that is), ask them in the comments and I'll try to get a response post. Unless it's a stupid question. (I'm looking at you, Sparky.)
Today's question is, "What is triple extension?" It's one of those questions best answered in a video. So voila.
Be seeing you.
-gary
Have you ever skipped a workout?
This question reminds me of the adage that the only way to never fall off a horse is to not ride. If you work out, sooner or later you're going to want to skip because you just don't feel like doing it. If it happens too often, your fitness plans (or dreams) are doomed. And let's face it, that's pretty common, and is partly why every year the gym crowds of January dwindle back to "normal" by March.
But it doesn't have to be that way. While never missing a workout would be ideal, there's a compromise: on the days you feel like skipping, feel like doing nothing, just do something. Anything.
Not much posting going on here lately, as Blended Fitness has kicked off its inaugural run and is demanding a lot of my attention. (Don't feel bad if you missed this one: it was invitation only. The next group starts in January. Stay tuned.)
For those who don't know, our Blended Fitness programs combine in-person personal training sessions with online training programs, coaching sessions, education, and more. (The name comes from "Blended Learning" which combines e-learning and classroom learning.)
There are two things I think set Blended Fitness apart from other forms of online training or coaching. Continue reading
Did you exercise today? Did you work out? Did you train? What's the difference?
While calories are not the only factor in fat loss, they do play a significant role. As a result, people often go to great lengths to reduce calories consumed (diet) and/or increase calories burned (exercise). But losing weight can result in some unintended consequences that impact continued loss or maintenance. Continue reading
It's a trap bar! (Sometimes called a "hex bar" due to the hexagonal shape.)
While originally intended for shrugs (working the trapezius muscles, hence "trap" bar), it's most commonly used these days for trap bar deadlifts since it makes it easier to maintain a neutral spine and eliminates shin wear and tear.
This was my first time using one. A little weird, but a nice addition to the toolbox. Thanks for the gift, me!
