Understanding Recovery

Understanding Recovery Contributed by: Dustin Gonzalez, NASM-CPT We eat, sleep, train, repeat—constantly striving to get bigger, stronger, faster or slimmer—but is there a point where too much becomes harmful? Many recognize the need for recovery after exercise, but do we understand what it takes to fully recover and whether we have actually achieved that state? We …

Essential Oils

Essential Oils Contributed by: Carol Kline Essential oils can provide therapeutic benefits in very small amounts.  For example, patchouli and rose oil can stimulate sympathetic nervous system activity.  Jasmine oil can uplift your mood and help improve depression.  Consider adding aromatherapy to your plan of overall health.  Aromatherapy is where you place a couple of …

Did You Make That Change?

Did You Make That Change? Contributed by: Ciara Floyd, NSCF-CPT, NSCA-CSCS Every January New Year’s resolutions are made and every March many of us look back and ponder our progress. Common resolutions may have sounded something like… “I am going to start exercising 5 days a week.” “I am going to add more protein to …

Does Gluten Free Equal Healthy?

Does Gluten Free Equal Healthy? Contributed by: Michael Devon, NASM-CPT Eating gluten free has a number of health benefits which may include decreased inflammation: great for managing autoimmune disorders, decreased GI discomfort, and the opportunity to substitute healthy gluten free alternatives in your food. Gluten consumption in some individuals triggers an immunologic response in which …

Clean & Clear Skin

Clean & Clear Skin Contributed by: Amanda Albiar, NCSF-CPT When it comes to clear, healthy skin, everyone is looking for the perfect answer. Whether it’s a cleanse, detox, trendy face mask or good old fashioned exfoliating, everyone and their mom is willing to try the next big thing to eliminate acne. According to Dr. Trevor …

Crunches vs. Planks

Crunches vs. Planks Contributed by Bethany Reynolds, CPT Are you building strength doing crunches/curl-ups? Crunches are an effective way to strengthen the muscles of your abdomen, specifically the rectus abdominis or what is known as the “six-pack” of your abs. The purpose of the rectus abdominis is to tilt the rib cage and the pelvis …

Why Women Should Weight Train

Why Women Should Weight Train Contributed by: Shawn Dassie,M.S., NASM-CPT, NSCA-CSCS It’s about time we talked about the brilliant benefits of weight training for women—because way too many women are missing out on them.  Traditionally, women often shy away from lifting weights for a number of reasons, from fear of bulking up to thinking they’re …

If You Have Time To Workout, You Have Time To Stretch

If You Have Time To Workout, You Have Time To Stretch Contributed by: Michael Devon, NASM-CPT Stretching is often overlooked as a valuable component to any fitness program. Stretching can help combat pain, fatigue, poor posture, and improve strength and overall fitness. If you have time to exercise then you have time to stretch! After …