Health and Fitness Blogs

Watch a group of elite runners warming up and you won't see any of them bending over trying to reach their toes. Instead, you'll see athletes moving their bodies to improve their range of motion, increase flexibility, and guard against injury. "Stretching has progressed to a more functional, dynamic method," says physical therapist Christ Frederick, codirector of the sTretch to Win Institute in Tempe, Arizona. "It helps runners of all levels perform better." You may be familiar with dynamic warmup moves like butt kicks and high-knee marches.

Here's another addition to the long list of the benefits of exercise. Researchers at the Siteman Cancer Center at Washington University School of Medicine and Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis have found that colon cancer patients who exercised regularly were less likely to die from the disease. The date, gleaned from the American Cancer Society Prevention Study II, involved more than 150,000 men and women. "We examined the association of 10 and 15 year change in physical activity with risk of colon cancer incidence and mortality in the Cancer Prevention STudy II," the author said.

April is a bit of a tease when it comes to seasonal foods. The sun is shining longer and more intensely, the snow is melting and it feels like we're coming out of hibernation, which should mean more fresh eats. But April serves as the bridge month between winter and spring. In locavore speak, that means there's still not more going on in most of the country when it comes to fresh produce. But take heart!

www.meganmerchant.com Why should you try Zumba? "It's not like a workout," explained Diane Walterstiel, 55, of Alpharetta. "Before I come, I'm tense, but when I leave, I could kiss the world." The Zumba organization believes you should find joy in your classes as you move freely and confidently in your own body, whatever size, shape or age you might be. There are no comparisons to be made and no class levels to achieve, other than your own personal fitness goals. And that is why we are inspired to share Zumba! So here are some tips and inside knowledge on Zumba

Kick off for UBC is May 2nd! This 4 week event (5 days a week) is for everyone, male and female! All fitness levels will be challenged. From the beginner to the experienced athlete! Join us!

April is upon us!! A new month to make a new agenda for...I have to admit March was not my best month fitness wise or goal wise. My goal was to tackle my time management issues, however I think my time management was worse than ever in March, lol!! The bright side of my "time management" introspection made me realize more than ever: I work best flying by the seat of my pants; Too much planning stresses me out! I've also learned that LISTS vs. Schedules work best for me. Loads of LISTS are on the horizon for me!!

Last night my youngest child got sick, so at least I knew the night before that I would have to stay home with her and cancel all my appointments. I ended up running the dog for 3.5 miles this morning because I knew I wouldn't be able to do anything else the rest of the day. Have a back-up plan if you have unexpected situations that may alter your exercise regimen. Stay tuned for tomorrow and the MRI.....BTW knee didn't bother me on the run, which was somewhat hilly.....

According to Scientists, sleep does the following; (1) it serves as the energy restoration (recharging) period from daytime activities; (2) it affords bodily protection at night when sensory capacities are down-regulated; and (3) it affords the brain needed time to consolidate important experiences and memories for learning (Gerber et al. 2010). Inadequate amounts of sleep could lead to obesity and hinder weight loss. Some tips to help you get those sweet dreams*: 1. Cut down on caffeine consumption in the late afternoon and evening. 2.

I have often dreamed of blogging, but having it actually become a reality here on IdeaFit, I find it difficult to express my thoughts at this time. But knowing me, this will change! :) I want to let you know that I will be speaking more to the women who read my blog than to men. I have created a fitness routine called Force Fitness. It was designed specifically for busy women who want to burn fat, get some awesome muscle definition, and burn mega calories! I have four workout videos out: Cardio Force, Core Force, Life Force and Jump Force. All can be purchased at www.collagevideo.com.

Get in on the action....save some money and get Fit!!! Fitness Fusion of the Hudson Valley launches 2011 Promotions, offers valid until 4/10/2011 1. All Teachers & Law Enforcement: take 5% off any package! 2. Rhinebeck Continuing Ed Bootcamp Attendees take 15% off any package“add a clean eating plan take add’l 10% off = %25 off total!