Injury Prevention: Flexible Feet to Avoid Plantar Fasciitis


Updated 06/27/11 8:18 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 8 comments

Stretch to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis

Runners, walkers, bikers, and hikers rely heavily on their feet. Feet allow us to do the things we love, but all that stepping, jumping, and pounding can cause damage to the plantar fascia. It's a thick band of tissue that covers and protects the bones on the bottom of your feet. When put under too much stress, these tissues can tear, causing a painful condition called plantar fasciitis. The Read more

Avoid Shin Splints With Heel Walks


Updated 03/30/12 6:01 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 19 comments

Avoid Shin Splints With Heel Walks

One of the dreaded side affects from starting a new walking or running routine is shin splints. The pain down the outside of your lower leg may be caused by a variety of issues, but the calf muscle tends to get stronger before the muscles on the front of the shin. While stretching the calves is intuitive post run, strengthening the opposing muscles on the front of the shin is not. A simple Read more

Injury Prevention: Strong Hips = Strong Knees


Updated 03/26/09 2:44 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 16 comments

Injury Prevention: Strong Hips = Strong Knees

We all know that men and women are different, even in how we exercise. Add to those differences the fact that women are more likely to suffer knee injuries. The difference is structural; the width of our child bearing hips angles the thigh bone (femur) in such a way that it creates some laxity and instability in the knee joint. Not to mention the ebb and flow of hormones women experience Read more

Yoga Series For Runners


Updated 05/11/12 9:00 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Yoga For Runners (Video)

We love running and yoga. We actually find that these two forms of exercise are quite complementary. Yoga is perfect for stretching out all those muscles worked, and often overworked, while pounding the pavement. To ensure that your body can handle all the miles, Kimberly Fowler, founder of Yoga For Athletes, suggests adding these five yoga poses to your weekly fitness routine. This short series Read more

3 Ways Walkers Can Benefit From Going Barefoot


Updated 05/10/12 2:00 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Benefits of Barefoot Walking

If you're into running, there's no doubt you've heard the buzz about barefoot running. It's become trendy for a reason: running barefoot can help you have better form and technique, preventing injury and pain. Runners aren't the only ones who can benefit from ditching their footwear. If walking is your exercise of choice, here are some reasons you'll want to try going barefoot. Active and Read more

3 Reasons to Work Your Back in Time For Summer


Updated 05/02/12 1:20 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Back Exercises For Posture

When it comes to looking your best on the beach, it's not all about how to build a six-pack or which exercises make your backside look the best in a bikini. In fact, having a healthy and strong back can make you feel your best on the beach in more ways than one. Here are some essential back exercises and why they will help you rock a swimsuit with confidence. Stand tall and slim: Wanna look five 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

Preventative Exercises Every New Runner Should Learn


Updated 05/05/11 2:00 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Exercises For Beginning Runners to Prevent Injuries and Correct Form

If you've got a spring in your step because of the nice weather, you may want to enjoy the fresh air by starting a new running hobby. But being a runner isn't just about lacing up fancy new kicks and hitting the pavement. By incorporating a few exercises into your workout routine, you can help prevent some injuries that are common in the running world. Here are a few of them to start doing 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

Anything Wrong With Working Out First Thing in the Morning?


Updated 04/28/12 6:55 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 28 comments

Is It Bad to Exercise First Thing in the Morning?

With work and family responsibilities, and feeling drained in the evening from a long, busy day, often the only time you can squeeze in your workout is to set your alarm for four, five, or six in morning to sweat it out then. Early morning workouts are a great way to start the day and relieve any pre-work stress. Plus getting it done first thing in the morning means you don't have to worry about Read more