No-Back-Breaking Pilates: The Hundred


Updated 07/05/11 12:35 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

How to Avoid Back Pain During Pilates

You might be avoiding the essential Pilates exercise the Hundred because it strains your lower back. But don't give up! We might be able to help you fix this problem possibly caused by tight hamstrings. Or you could be overextending your lower back by forcing your legs to straighten. Weak ab muscles and tight hip flexors could also be the culprit. It's difficult but crucial to constantly pull Read more

Tips for Preventing Back Pain: Part III


Updated 11/29/07 5:30 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

Tips for Preventing Back Pain: Part III

Back pain is a not only a pain in the back, but also a pain in the a**, figuratively speaking, since it can leave you missing out on festivities of the holiday season. There are many simple things you can do for yourself to help prevent back pain as well as reduce current back pain you may already be experiencing. Here are just a few: Sleep on a firm mattress and box spring that doesn't sag. Read more

Tips for Preventing Back Pain: Part II


Updated 11/28/07 11:41 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 5 comments

Tips for Preventing Back Pain: Part II

Back pain is not only a pain in the back, but also a pain in the a**, figuratively speaking, since it can leave you missing out on festivities of the holiday season. There are many simple things you can do for yourself to help prevent back pain as well as reduce current back pain you may already be experiencing. Here are just a few: Practice good posture. If possible, don't sit for long periods Read more

Running vs. Jogging


Updated 03/19/07 12:24 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 12 comments

Running vs. Jogging

Maybe this seems obvious - running means you're moving at a faster pace than jogging. The question really is - how much faster? Technically, if it takes you less than 9 minutes to complete 1 mile, you are running. If it takes you more than 9 minutes to complete 1 mile, you are jogging. They are both considered great cardio and aerobic exercise that work your muscles and are good for your heart, Read more

The Skinny On: Your Lower Back


Updated 05/25/10 12:26 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 3 comments

The Skinny On: Your Lower Back

The common expression is "pain in the neck" but it seems like it should be "pain in my low back" since about 80% of Americans complain about low back pain at some point in their life. The low back supports everything above it - the torso and the head. It is also involved in almost every action we do - standing, sitting, twisting and lifting. So if you have a pain in your low back it pretty Read more

Common Treadmill Woe: How to Avoid a Stiff Neck While Running


Updated 05/14/12 12:15 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Proper Running Form on the Treadmill

Many people prefer hitting the treadmill to running outdoors, but if you're not careful, along with that toned tush you might end up with a stiff neck, resulting in a nagging headache. Follow these tips the next time you hop on the treadmill to prevent this common running woe. Keep Your Gaze Forward One gym perk is its televisions, which allow you to catch up on the news or your favorite TV Read more

5 Things to Never Do During Indoor Cycling Class


Updated 05/02/12 4:00 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Indoor Cycling Class Tips

Indoor cycling classes are an amazing cardio workout, but if you don't know what you're doing, you'll walk away frustrated, or, even worse — injured. Compared to other group fitness classes, indoor cardio cycling is also a little harder to pick up on when trying it for the first time. After getting the lowdown on what to expect from your first class, follow these rules on things you should Read more

Dispel These Common Complaints and Start a Love Affair With Running


Updated 05/07/12 12:18 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Common Running Complaints

You want to love running, you do, but every time you head out for a run, you end up hating it even more. Check out some of the most common complaints below, and find out how you can turn your relationship with running around for the better. "My Knee, My Back, My Feet — Everything Hurts" Pounding the pavement is not easy on the body, and one reason for aches and pains is poor running form. Read more

Know Your Basics: How to Do a Lunge


Updated 05/01/12 3:10 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Do a Lunge

Lunges are a quintessential exercise; you can do them anywhere and the effects can be seen in no time, in the form of shapely, toned legs and backside (just in time for bikini season!). If you're planning on incorporating lunges into your routine, however, make sure you're not doing more harm than good. Find out how to do lunges correctly below. The basics: It's important to do lunges properly Read more

A Body Check That Won't Hurt: Tips For Proper Running Form


Updated 04/23/12 10:50 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Running Form Tips

Running is all about stepping one foot in front of the other. Sounds easy enough, right? But if your running form is incorrect, you'll end up with aches, strains, and injuries that could prevent you from lacing up your sneaks at all. Make sure to avoid these running-form mistakes the next time you hit the treadmill, trail, or pavement. Head: It sometimes feels good to close your eyes and relax Read more