Posted by Chad Anderson CSCS on December 9, 2008 under Core Training, General Fitness, Weight Loss | 
Abdominal training is the focus of a lot of attention these days. The belly is the number one problem area for most people and often is the area worked the most (usually on a daily basis) during an exercise routine. However, the abdominals are a muscle group just like any other and they need to recover as well. Therefore, for those who insist on working the abdominals frequently, I recommend taking the following approach.
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Posted by Chad Anderson CSCS on December 4, 2008 under Weight Loss, Wellness |
The holiday season is upon us and for many that spells good times, good food, and good-bye waistline! Although some (ok, most!) of the weight gained during this time of year can be attributed to overeating, the abnormally high level of stress everyone is under lends its helping hand to the problem. Therefore, here are 10 things you can do to help alleviate the holiday stress: Read more of this article »
Posted by Chad Anderson CSCS on December 2, 2008 under Weight Loss |
If you’re having trouble dropping the pounds, you may just need more variety in your exercise routine. From my experiences, most people stay on a given exercise routine way too long and don’t do enough different exercises. They usually find what’s comfortable and stick to it. Unfortunately, this is not an effective strategy. Read more of this article »
Posted by Chad Anderson CSCS on December 1, 2008 under General Fitness, Strength Training |
There still seems to be some confusion regarding this topic, so I just wanted to post a quick blurb about breathing technique during resistance training. Your breathing pattern should look like this:
- Breathe In: During the eccentric phase. The eccentric phase is when the muscle in lengthening. For example, during the bench press you would breathe in as you are lowering the bar.
- Breathe Out: During the concentric phase. The concentric phase is when the muscle is shortening. For example, during the bench press you would breathe out as you are pressing the bar off the chest to the starting position.
- Avoid: Holding the breath during a full repetition or multiple repetitions.
To simplify the above, just remember this: Breathe out during the hard part of the movement; breathe in during the easy part of the movement. Under some circumstances, advanced breathing techniques may be used. However, this is all most people will need to remember.
Posted by Chad Anderson CSCS on November 24, 2008 under Wellness |
I’m sure most of you enjoy getting the occasional massage from a professional massage therapist. It can be very soothing and relaxing. However, the benefits go way beyond what you may think. Here is a brief list of some of the benefits regular massage has to offer:
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve circulation
- Boosts immune function
- Relief from chronic headaches
- Improves sleep
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Reduces/relieves muscular tension and pain
- Promotes relaxation
Posted by Chad Anderson CSCS on November 20, 2008 under General Fitness |
For those who have journeyed into the mountains to ride the bike/walking trails you know what a treat, and challenge, it can be. This, I must say, is one of the best activities I have ever done to improve my physical conditioning and I highly recommend giving it a shot if you have not already.
If you are not familiar with mountain biking, you may be wondering how to get started. If you already have a mountain bike, helmet, and gloves…you’re set. If not, you will want to venture over to your local bike shop and they will be able to fix you up with an appropriate bike and the accessories you will need. Read more of this article »
