Strike a Yoga Pose: Upward Facing Dog


Updated 04/27/12 10:31 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

How to Do Upward Facing Dog Pose

Just about as common as Downward Facing Dog, Upward Facing Dog pose, or Up Dog as I like to call it, not only elongates and increases flexibility in your spine, but it's a great pose for opening your chest, throat, shoulders, and the front of your thighs. When doing this pose, try not to tense your glutes or crunch your lower back. If it hurts your wrists to have so much weight in your palms, Read more

How a Determined Desiree Davila Won a Spot on the US Olympic Marathon Team


Updated 04/27/12 4:42 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Marathoner Desiree Davila on Making the 2012 Olympic Team

We are pumped to share one of our fave stories from espnW here on FitSugar! This week's is an inspiring story about marathoner Desiree Davila, who will be representing the US in the Olympics for her first time. The following is an excerpt; read the entire story here. By Bonnie D. Ford At last January's Olympic trials in Houston, Texas, four top women had distanced themselves from the field: Read more

3 Leg Stretches Runners Should Do Daily


Updated 04/20/12 11:09 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Running Stretches For Tight Hamstrings and Hips

I don't think I've ever met a runner who doesn't suffer from tight hips, hamstrings, or a lower back. The receptive movements and strengthening aspect of running can cause tight muscles that need extra attention. Of course you should never skip the stretching session after a run, but here are three lower-body stretches you should do every day — even on the days you don't run. Open Lizard What Read more

7 Ways to Get Stronger Arms in Yoga Class


Updated 04/10/12 10:18 AM · Posted by · 3 comments

How to Get Strong Arms in a Yoga Class

Practicing yoga is one of the best ways to relieve stress, but since you're holding yourself in challenging positions, it's also a killer workout for your upper body. Superstrong, sculpted arms not only look good in a strapless dress, but also enable you to do more advanced yoga poses. Here are some ways you can build a stronger upper body with yoga. Practice, practice, practice: Taking a class Read more

Don't Pop or Lock These: Mind Your Elbows


Updated 11/15/11 2:00 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Avoid Hyperextending Your Elbows During Exercises

Unless an instructor or trainer calls you out, most people don't pay attention to what's happening with their elbows. When straightening your elbows during weight-bearing exercises, have you noticed if you unintentionally hyperextend them? You'll know that you have hyperextended elbows if your joint extends beyond 180 degrees when completely straightened. Going to the hyperextended place means Read more

3 Must-Do Yoga Poses For Tight Hips


Updated 11/02/11 3:10 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Yoga Poses For Tight Hips

Whether you suffer from tight hips because you run, sit at a desk all day, are pregnant, or were just born with oh-so-tight hips, here are three yoga poses you can do every day to increase flexibility and reduce tension in this commonly stiff area. Mix up the sequence each time you do it to keep your muscles guessing. One of my favorite stretches after a run, Lizard will target your hips and hip Read more

Class Act: Paddleboard Yoga


Updated 05/25/12 9:21 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

What to Expect From a Paddleboard Yoga Class

It's been remarkably hot here lately, and even though I'm used to doing yoga in a heated room, the 90-degree temps and humidity are starting to get to me. To combat the heat, I decided to check out a new three-class yoga series offered by my studio called Yoga and Paddleboarding. All I needed was some comfy clothes I didn't mind getting wet, and they offered a paddleboard I could borrow. For Read more