Remember to Do Some Cardio Before Strength Training


Updated 10/16/11 7:51 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 9 comments

Remember to Do Some Cardio Before Strength Training

Even though strength training seems like low impact exercise that doesn't mean you should skip out on warming up. Start off with at least five minutes of brisk walking, jogging, biking, or jumping rope. Here are some reasons why: A cardio warm-up raises muscle temperature, which helps your muscles contract more forcibly and relax more quickly. You'll feel stronger and reduce the risk of Read more

Is Doing Cardio Before Strength Training Bad?


Updated 05/03/12 1:25 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Is Doing Cardio Before Weights Bad For Your Muscles?

Many of you say that you go to the gym twice in a day, but does the order of your workout matter? New studies, according to The New York Times, may answer the age-old debate held by many hardcore fitness fanatics — whether or not doing cardio before or after your strength training routine is bad for your muscle development. Many athletes and serious exercisers try to avoid doing both in the Read more

One Month Till Memorial Day Weekend! How to Get Bikini-Ready Now


Updated 05/02/12 4:15 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Diet and Exercise Plan For Summer

We are pumped to share one of our favorite stories from Self here on FitSugar! With spring in full swing, we've already said goodbye to the winter blues. But as you enjoy the milder weather and longer days, keep in mind that Memorial Day weekend is merely a month away — meaning it's almost time for bikinis and short shorts! So, is one month enough time to score your best body yet? It sure is, Read more

5 Muscle Myths You Should Stop Believing


Updated 04/28/12 6:53 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

The Biggest Strength-Training Myths

Muscle building is an important component of any exercise routine, but are you strength training the right way? Here are five common myths about muscles, and why they aren't true. Heavy weights make you bulk up: It's a common belief: lifting heavy weights will have you looking more bodybuilder than long and lean. But in reality, your muscles won't get Ms. Olympia-sized from lifting a 20-pound Read more

How to Warm Up For Every Type of Workout


Updated 03/29/12 1:55 PM · Posted by · 1 comment

How to Warm Up For a Workout

You know that you should warm up no matter what, but if you ever wondered what exactly you should be doing, here are specific warm-ups for different kinds of workouts. Yoga: Think you don't need to warm up before yoga? Think again. Warming up before your class can help your performance and keep you from being sore the moment you stretch out into Downward Dog. Keep your wrists, shoulders, and Read more

5 Things You Should Never Do During a Workout


Updated 03/28/12 5:22 AM · Posted by · 1 comment

What Not to Do During a Workout

There are many things you shouldn't do before a workout, such as cold stretching (learn more prewrokout no-nos here). To make the most of your actual workout, here are a handful of things to avoid while getting your sweat on. Exercise on an empty stomach: Used as a common weight-loss technique, exercising on an empty stomach can actually prevent weight loss. Without fuel in your system, Read more

5 Reasons You Need a Gym Membership


Updated 03/18/12 6:27 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

Why You Should Sign Up For a Gym

Not everyone loves the gym — and in fact, there are times when canceling your gym membership is a good idea. But if you're wondering whether to sign up for a gym, here are five reasons one may be perfect for you. You're new to it. If you've never exercised before, you'll need someone to show you the ropes to prevent injury. Joining a gym is good for this reason — you'll be able to get Read more

11 Bootcamp Workouts to Have You Looking Your Best For Bikini Season


Updated 05/11/12 3:28 PM · Posted by · 3 comments

Bikini Boot Camp Workouts

With bikini season just a few months away, get a jump on your fitness regimen now, instead of scrambling one week before your beach vacation to realize it's too late. Do a few of these circuit bootcamp workouts every week, alongside a solid cardio routine and healthy diet, and you'll be beach-ready as soon as the sun comes bearing down this Summer. This boot camp video workout from Jeanette Read more

The 4 Things Runners Need to Do Every Week


Updated 03/25/12 7:59 PM · Posted by · 3 comments

How Runners Can Prevent Injuries

Running is one of the most popular forms of cardio because it's inexpensive, you can do it anywhere, and it burns major calories while toning your lower body. That said, if you run, here are four things you should be doing every week. Vary your workouts: Doing the same running workout all the time can not only be boring, but can also lead to overuse injuries in the muscles. Mix up the surface Read more

Go From Tortoise to Hare With These Running Tips


Updated 02/26/12 10:45 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

How to Become a Faster Runner

A friend asked me to go for a run the other day, and I agreed with the disclaimer that I was pretty poky in the speed department. I was surprised that I wasn't as slow as I thought. I've been working on my pace, and I guess what I've been doing has been effective. Try these tips on your runs to give your running pace a little kick in the pants. Don't fear the hills. Running uphill is much Read more