How to Breathe While Doing Resistance Exercises


Updated 10/12/07 5:24 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 4 comments

How to Breathe While Doing Resistance Exercises

I know it seems funny to be reading tips about how to breathe, but the problem is that most of us do not breathe properly while lifting. In fact a lot of people actually hold their breath, which is problematic because it can cause your blood pressure to skyrocket. So here is the deal. When performing exercises where you pull/curl, exhale as you pull/curl and inhale when the muscle is lengthening. Read more

Inversion Issues: How to Remedy Common Shoulderstand Complaints


Updated 05/25/12 10:05 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Remedies For Common Shoulderstand Complaints

You're loving your yoga class from Half Moon to Pigeon Pose, but as soon as you get to Shoulderstand, you're less than psyched. Although a basic — challenging, but basic — pose, Shoulderstand can put you at risk of strain and injury when done incorrectly. Turn this pose into your favorite by checking out these common complaints and ways to remedy them. "I Can't Breathe" If you're well Read more

Get Lifted: How to Do an Overhead Press Correctly


Updated 05/09/12 3:50 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Do a Standing Overhead Press With Dumbbells

Yes, it's almost tank top and bikini season, which means that bare arms will be the norm for the months ahead. If you want to sculpt shapely shoulders and toned arms, learn how to incorporate the overhead press into your workout routine. Proper form: You can do an overhead press using dumbbells, barbells, or resistance bands. The following are tips on how to do a standing overhead press using Read more

Energize Your Morning with 4 Wake-Up Moves


Updated 05/09/12 4:30 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Energizing Morning Yoga Routine

We are pumped to share one of our favorite stories from Self here on FitSugar! Can't get through your morning without your daily java fix? You're not alone. According to a survey conducted by the National Coffee Association, Americans spend an average of $164.71 on coffee per year. That's almost enough for a monthly car payment or a couple of weeks worth of groceries! Want to wean yourself off Read more

6 Best Ways to Flatten Your Belly By Summer


Updated 05/11/12 3:00 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Get a Flat Belly For Summer

We are pumped to share one of our fave stories from Prevention here on FitSugar! By the Editors of Prevention A toned, flat tummy is a goal many of us strive to achieve in time for bathing suit season, but endless crunches and ditching all your favorite foods until July 4th isn’t the right—or fun—way to do it. A sculpted core and trim tummy can be attained by incorporating small changes Read more

5 Ways to Challenge Your Tree Pose


Updated 04/27/12 3:53 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Tree Pose Variations For Arbor Day

In celebration of Arbor Day this Friday, I can't help but think about the peaceful and majestic Tree pose. If you've mastered the basic pose already, here are some ways to challenge your Tree. Arch: When doing the traditional Tree pose, balancing your torso straight over your standing leg allows you to stack your bones on top of each other to create a stable pose. Make balancing on one leg Read more

Yoga No-Nos For Pregos


Updated 04/15/12 2:56 PM · Posted by · 3 comments

What to Avoid in Yoga When Pregnant

Fun issues like nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, and the need to hit the ladies' room — three different times during a workout! — makes it difficult to keep up with a regular exercise routine when pregnant. If you're expecting, taking up yoga (or continuing to go) is wonderful because not only does it alleviate some of these annoying discomforts, your body will stay strong and flexible. Read more

4 Reasons to Stick With Pilates


Updated 04/15/12 10:27 AM · Posted by · 11 comments

The Benefits of Pilates

Fad workouts come and go, but Pilates continues to be a favorite among Hollywood starlets and well-versed fitness fanatics. What's to love about the exercise? Check out these four reasons to do Pilates below. Complementary workout: Whether you are a hard-core swimmer or a bootcamp devotee, incorporating Pilates into your workout routine helps keep your muscles loose and flexible, important for 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

From the Community: Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Activity


Updated 04/02/12 2:40 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

The Difference Between Aerobic and Anaerobic

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