FitSugar

8 Ways to Start Your Week Off Right

FitSugar — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 04:30:00 -0800

Though some of us like to do intense workouts on the weekends, for many people, Saturday and Sunday are a time for relaxing and getting out of your fitness routine. It's important to start off Monday on the right foot, so you're on the right track all week. Here are my suggestions for things you can do Sunday night to make sure you're back on track for a healthy Monday morning.

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10 New Workouts to Try

FitSugar — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 04:30:55 -0700

Going to the gym every day can feel monotonous. An easy way to get out of a rut is to try a new class or workout. Here are some of the classes you told us you wanted to try, as well as a few of our own suggestions to inspire you.

Source: HoopNotica

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6 Mistakes You're Making at the Gym

FitSugar — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 08:00:13 -0700

Squeezing in gym time can be tricky, so you want to make your time there worthwhile. In order to strengthen your muscles effectively and prevent injury, make sure to avoid these six common workout mistakes.

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Take it From Jennifer Garner: Use the Weight Machines

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 23:30:00 -0700

I am a big Jennifer Garner fan. Not only does she seem to be totally down to earth as a mom, she also has been slowly toning up (rather than the usual celeb disappearing act) after having that adorable baby of hers.

Looks like one way Jen gets those lovely arms, other than toting Violet around in her arms all day, is by using the weight machines at the gym. Weight machines, along with any other strength training methods, are a great way to tone up those arms. However, be sure you are getting the most out of it with these tips:

On machines that have multiple handles-such as the shoulder-press and row machines-alternate your grip between palms facing forward and palms facing each other.
Be sure you are using enough resistance. The machines tend to allow us to cheat due to their ease of down-shifting the resistance and the conspicuousness of it. Just like with free weights, you want to exhaust the muscles you are working in 10-12 reps.
Slow it down both ways. People tend to go too fast when bringing the machine to the return position and miss a good portion of their workout. So go slow during the entire movement to work opposing muscles as well as primary muscles.
Pay attention to proper form to avoid injury. Technique can usually be learned by simply reading the instructions on the machine or by having a trainer tell you how it works. Keep in mind that most of the time you want your knees, elbows, hips at 90 degree angles.
Been waiting a long time to use that Lat Pull-Down Machine? Ask the person hogging it if you can work in with her. This means that while she is resting in between sets, you do a set and then when you're resting in between sets, she does hers.

For more pics of Jen toning up with weight machines at the gym, read more

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Flynet

Get Your Butt in Gear: Victoria's Secret Workout Pants

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 02:00:00 -0700

We all know Victoria's Secret makes some sexy lingerie, but they are now also making great yoga pants. I first learned about Victoria's Secret yoga line from team member CGW when she bookmarked a pair as a Fit Find. They have a ton of different styles and colors to choose from, and they're not at all over-priced.

Although they're labeled "yoga pants," they'd be great for any kind of exercise from walking, to jogging, to Pilates, to kick-boxing, to casual bike riding. Wear them to the gym, on a lazy Sunday, or to relax in at home - they'll add flexibility to your wardrobe. (ha - get it?)

I like the splash of color at the waistband of this Foldover Yoga Pant. They come in tons of color combinations like black/strawberry, fern green/spearmint, and midnight/seaside blue. Nowadays, everyone wears black pants, so it's nice to have something that's a little different and a little more colorful for spring.

Another great thing about these cotton/lycra pants is that not only do they come in sizes XS-XL, but you can also choose whether you want a 30", 32", or 34" inseam. You can get these adorable ultra-low rise pants For $29.

Interested in seeing some other styles? Then, read more

Victoria's Secret Yogawear line includes full length or cropped pants, shorts, capris, and loose fitting or straight leg pants. They also have regular waistbands, as well as the foldover ones above. Check out all the styles.

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