Improving Health

Osteoporosis is one of the most serious and common diseases amongst the older population today with the expected prevalence to rise greatly within the next few years. 

The disease is characterized by a significant decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) which leaves those affected at risk of fractures as a result of weakened bones.

As of right now there is no effective cure for the disease. However, prevention through diet and physical activity is the best treatment. So to help you protect yourself from the Osteoporosis, here’s some exercise types that have shown to improve balance, coordination, and promote bone growth.

Arthritis can be one of the biggest obstacles for those living an active life. As time goes on, normal wear and tear on the joints causes the cartilage within them to become compromised. This can lead to periods of pain and stiffness as a result of inflammation.

Today, arthritis is one of the most common diseases amongst older Americans – and is the number one cause for disability. 50 million suffer from arthritis while 21 million report having symptoms.

While this physical limitation has the tendency to lead people to a more sedentary lifestyle, it’s crucial to keep active and moving. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation promotes regular exercise and physical activity as the best non-drug treatment for the condition.

When I first started creating fitness routines I would always have a general idea of what I wanted to accomplish, whether it be improving strength or building endurance. But as the weeks carried on I would lose motivation and consistency. Ultimately, I didn’t accomplish much because I lacked a direction and reason for what I wanted to accomplish.

About a year ago, I decided that I would run my first marathon. However, when I first started training there was no way I could run 26.2 miles (much less 5 miles). So to help me out, each week I set specific goals based on distances and finishing times.

Over a period of 6 months, there was a gradual progression to where I needed to be on race day in order to finish. Once I knew the keys behind setting the appropriate goals I was able to succeed.

To give you a better opportunity to gain more in your fitness ventures, here are some tips on how to create the appropriate goals.

Hopefully 2016 is off to a healthy start, but maybe it is time to make things a little more interesting with your exercise routine and try boxing!

Boxing is becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. It is not only the much-needed exciting change from your normal workout; it also has awesome physical and mental benefits!

Trail running is all the rage these days. It is the much-needed breath of fresh air and change of scenery the average treadmill runner craves.

Bounding along a trail, not knowing exactly what’s around the next bend forces you to stay present. It takes the focus off of the miles, calories, or time and onto enjoying the moment. 

Trail running also burns 10 percent more calories and helps runners improve their balance and agility. Because navigating a trail requires more lateral movements, moving side to side to avoid trees, rocks, etc., it keeps the core engaged. The trail also requires shorter steps, which are better for your joints.

There are so many benefits to a good trail run, but before you strap on your hydration pack and hit the rough terrain, check out these beginner tips!

Fall is here and that means it’s training season. It’s a very popular time to set new goals and run 5ks, half marathons or full marathons now that the temperature is finally cooling down!

Following a training plan is obviously important, but there are additional ways to make sure you are best prepared for the big day.

Rowing is by no means a new type of workout, but it has certainly been gaining some momentum as a popular fitness class.

Some people are even referring to rowing as the new spinning!

In the past, the rowing machine has not been the star of your local gym. More likely it was hidden in a corner and did not see much action.

Today, the rowing machine has moved up in the fitness world and into the fitness-class studio.

More and more people are getting excited about rowing classes — and for good reason.

The dog days of summer are upon us, and humidity hits you like a choking fog when you step out the door.

Physical activity in the heat can be risky if you aren’t careful, but that’s no reason to put your workout goals on hold entirely.

Follow these five tips to stay safe when exercising this summer.

Think your typical hot and sweaty spinning class is a good workout? Wait until you try hydrospinning!

Hydrospinning is what’s trending now in water fitness. It’s just your typical cycling class… except your bike is under water.

It combines the energizing atmosphere of the indoor cycling studio with the benefits of water-based exercise.

There is a lot of marketing about products to fuel your workout.

“Buy this energy drink.”

“Use this protein powder.”

“Eat this power bar.”

Forget all the ads and commercials — there are 4 low cost foods that naturally fuel your body.