Feeling unbalanced and disconnected from your inner self? Who doesn't feel that way these days? Kate Boswoth seems to make time for the horses, but should you?
If going to the derby doesn't sound like your idea of a relaxing trip but you would like to pack your bags for a unique, life-changing experience, then read more
You push yourself to your limits when doing cardio, but do you stretch yourself to the limit afterward? Many trainers agree that people neglect regular stretching as part of their fitness plan and they're sorely (pun intended) missing its benefits.
I am here to tell you that a little stretching goes a long way. Stretching regularly helps prevent injury by increasing the range of motion of the joints and thereby improves performance. A muscle that can work through its full range of motion is a stronger muscle.
It also counteracts the tightness that happens just from your basic daily activities - like wearing high heels (these make your calves tight). Stretching keeps you limber, lithe and agile. Who wouldn't want that?
So now that you know more about the benefits of stretching, you're going to need to know how to do it. To learn a few tips on stretching, read more
If your abdominal strengthening routine is feeling stale, why not put a twist on it?
This variation on the basic "sit-up" targets the obliques. Try it at home or the gym soon and let us know what you think of it.
Move 1) Lie on your back with bent knees and twist both legs to the left until your legs are on the floor. Bend elbows and interlace fingers behind your head. Really cradle and support your head.
Move 2) Exhale pulling your deep abs in to your spine, lift your head and upper back off the floor using your abdominals. Keep your shoulders square to the ceiling because it's so easy to cheat. Really focus on your left shoulder coming off the floor as much as the right one by actively reaching it towards your right hip.
Inhale and slowly lower your head. Repeat 9 more times before switching sides.
Fit’s tip: It is good to stretch your spine and obliques before doing the sit ups. To stretch, lie in the twisted position from "Move 1", but reach your arms straight out to the side and rest them on the floor. Hold the stretch for about 30 seconds on each side.
For many of us the cold weather is here which means so is cold and flu season - UGH!
I always feel like a bullseye when it comes to catching a cold, especially around the holidays when all the kids are running around wiping their ripe noses on my pants - gross. I wash my hands a million times but after I catch it, I need to call in the troops and tackle it from the inside out.
To learn how to cut your cold time (and its severity) down, read more
Let's start by saying everyone is different, and while we can't make you Jessica Alba (this isn't plastic surgery here), we can fill you in on what's reported Miss Alba does to keep fit.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself when you are feeling stressed is to turn to someone else.
All those stresses can get bottled up and gabbing with a supportive pal about life and what's ailing you (or her) can instantly relieve stress. Talking about your problems not only helps you gain perspective, but you can usually brainstorm some ideas to try in those troublesome times.
Fit's Tip: If your best friend lives far away, she's only just a phone call away, and even just leaving a message can help.