Even the most fervent fitness fanatics have things we just won't do. I'm all for taking up new fitness habits, but they don't always stick. I shy away from ice climbing, and I have friends who are terrified of surfing. Some fitness fears are more basic: maybe you've always wanted to take group kickboxing classes, but the thought of keeping up with the steps keeps you up at night. Or perhaps you Read more

We are pumped to share one of our fave stories from Shape here on FitSugar. You've always heard that when it comes to building muscle mass, heavy weights are preferred over lighter weights. But a new study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology has found that isn't always the case. In fact, you can build just as much muscle by lifting lighter weights. If you do it right... 10 Health and Read more

Location and machine availability may be the biggest reasons why you chose your gym, but there's more to be had with your membership. Get the most out of the hundreds of dollars you're spending with this list of extras you may be overlooking at the gym. Workout props: Maybe you only use the machines, but don't ignore the props lying all over the gym floor. Things like battle ropes (those thick Read more

Not sure what the difference between aerobic and anaerobic activity is? In our Get Fit For 2012 group, FitSugar reader meetcasey explains what each term means and why we should be doing both. Aerobic exercise requires the body to utilize oxygen to create energy. With anaerobic exercise, the body creates energy without extra oxygen — your body relies on its natural chemicals to create Read more

Are you a fan of your gym's weight room? While some people love it, others are either too intimidated or embarrassed to exercise alongside those six-pack-sporting gym goers who seem to have it all under control. But being scared of the weight room is no reason to stay away. Here are four ways you can get over your apprehension and learn to love working out with weights at the gym. Go with a Read more

Valentine's Day is always a good excuse to heat things up, and there's always a healthy, fun, and sexy way to celebrate the love-filled day, whether you're spending the holiday with friends or that special someone! Girls Night Out: Pole Dancing Class A pole dancing class is a frisky way for friends to celebrate Valentine's Day together. It's a little intimidating to swing around a pole while also Read more

We are excited to share one of our fave stories from Fitness Magazine here on FitSugar! Awards season is in full swing, and we can't help but wonder how these celebs manage to look so good. And what's a girl without access to expensive Hollywood trainers and stylists to do? We caught up with actress, model, and former wrestler Stacy Keibler (who looked stunning on the arm of boyfriend George Read more

No need to be nervous about taking your fitness class: FitSugar community member (and fitness instructor) livinginthin has some helpful tips to help you navigate your way through the workout. Did you just join a gym? Good for you! Group fitness classes can be a fun and effective way to get into an exercise program, but venturing into that loud, crowded room for the first time can be pretty Read more

If you've signed up for a new gym this year, figuring out how things work, from treadmill etiquette to the location of the foam rollers, can be a bit overwhelming. Tack on an overcrowded locker room and intimidating-looking machines, and it may want you to skip a workout. Instead of skipping out on exercising altogether, figure out your gym's dynamics when it's less crowded. Find a time when Read more