A look at the Insanity Workout

Posted: May 10, 2013 in Fitness Machines, Non-Fitness, Reviews, Workout Plans
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A lot of people are unsure whether they should try out the insanity workout because they aren’t sure if it actually works. Well, to start, you should know that there is no such thing as the perfect program that will work for everyone. Every person is different, so they will all have personal needs and goals to achieve. You simply need to find out what your goals are when it comes down to it.

The Insanity Workout

The insanity workout is especially designed to put the body through an extremely intense workout, no matter what the person’s fitness level might have been beforehand. It was basically created to make people work hard and give all that they’ve got to reap the best results possible. This maximum interval training program will make you sweat intensely and generally includes plyometric drills and high intensive training that target strength, power, resistance, core and abdominals. In other words, this workout will build up all of your muscles.

The Feedback

The feedback for the insanity workout has been pretty mixed. Some people say that they have started to feel much better about themselves after they started following the program, while others claim that their bodies aren’t as ripped as they would want to be three weeks in.

Then there are those who are extremely impressed by the program and those who experience intense muscle pain from it. Most of the time, though, the feedback is positive with incredibly results at the forefront. While it may take some time for the program to take effect in some people, you should find it extremely beneficial if you are following the workout and a nutritious diet at the same time.

The Price

The main product itself costs around $100 to $200, depending where you get it from, and includes a nutrition guide that will help you keep your energy levels up as needed, and a calendar that will help you track your overall progress as time goes by. Naturally, the workout DVDs will be part of the package, as well. You also have the option to upgrade your program for more intense workouts and to get a professional mat and a body fat tester in the mix. This upgrade costs an extra $100, though.

The Effectiveness

If you do a ton of research online, you will soon notice and realize that this product is very effective for different body types. Naturally, you will have to use your common sense before you start. If you are currently experiencing joint pain, then you might not want to try this out just yet. If you weigh a lot or are completely out of shape because you stopped working out for a while, then you might want to take things slow at first and just build up to it. Remember: the insanity workout was made to challenge people into working their bodies to the hardest, so you are sure to get great results if you put more effort into the process overall.

This article was written by One Polar - Manufacturers of Technical Rucksacks, built to last a lifetime. For more information, please visit; www.onepolar.co.uk 

How to get the most out of your gym membership

Posted: May 3, 2013 in Fitness Machines, Reviews, Workout Plans
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So you have decided to get a gym membership to help you lose some extra pounds before the summer holiday. You have chosen the gym you want to use and paid the relatively expensive monthly subscription. Now that you’re releasing a chunk of your wage every month for a gym then you’ll want to make sure that you’re getting everything you can from that membership. We have some advice to ensure that you’re utilising the facilities at hand and getting the most out of your gym.

Exercise classes
If you’re new to the gym then exercising in front of people can be hard enough, never mind with them, but we urge that you try your gyms exercise classes. These classes can vary but generally offer a general work out that covers many different aspects and it’s much better than just heading straight for the treadmill. Because they’re instructor led you’ll have someone who can push you past your comfort zone and show you exercises that maybe you haven’t tried before. It’s also a great chance to meet your fellow gym goers and start to feel more comfortable there. You aren’t paying money to turn up and feel uncomfortable every week! Making friends at the gym can also act as a motivational tool. Think of it as a time in which you can socialise as well as work out.

Equipment
It’s easy to join a gym and just use the treadmill and weight machines because that’s the equipment you know. To really make the most out of your membership you should be trying every piece of equipment in the gym. Even if it’s just once! Who knows? You might find something that you really enjoy using that exercises the part of your body you want to get into shape. Regularly mixing in different exercise machines into your routine means that you’re going to get a much more comprehensive workout so don’t be shy about testing new stuff out. If you don’t know how to use the equipment, just ask. As part of your membership you should be entitled to training on all the equipment there.

Personal training
Most gyms offer a free one on one session with a professional trainer when you join the gym which will be your chance to get all the questions you can in. What kind of routines should I be doing to reach my goals? Is there a specific set of equipment I should be using? After your one on one the personal trainers will start to charge, but if you’re not willing to shell out the amount they’re asking then you could always ask for a bit of help. The trainers are always happy to assist in the hope that you’ll enlist their services in the future. You might be surprised at how much you can get for free!

Turn up!
Ben Goodyear, who has worked for a number of health clubs Bristol, told us that “before you join the gym, ask yourself if you have the time and willpower to use it”. You may think this an obvious piece of advice but you would be astonished at the amount of people who sign up to the gym only to never end up going.  We understand that you might not always be in the mood to head for a sweaty workout after a day in the office but you’re going to feel so much better for it! Plus, many gyms only offer contract subscriptions so if you have signed up for 6 months that’s how long you’re going to be paying for so you should endeavour to go at least once a week.

Your gym membership is going to be the key to losing those pounds, staying fit and lowering stress levels so make sure that you’re doing everything in your power to make the most out of your time there!

Obesity Worldwide Infographic

Posted: March 6, 2013 in Non-Fitness
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Obesity Worldwide Infographic

 

Source

How Protein Can Make A Difference In Your Weight Loss Goal

Posted: February 25, 2013 in Diet and Nutrition
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Whether you are just starting out or have been in the diet for a while, you might have encountered several diets that are said to be the most effective and most popular in the weight loss industry arsenal of weight loss plans, and those that are the ones that are based on proteins. There are probably several reasons why many opt to use high protein based diets and the reasons are explained further in the next few paragraphs.

How Protein Can Make A Difference

One of the reasons why a high protein diet is popular is the effect that it has on the human body’s sugar level. Proteins help to balance one’s sugar level and thus help maintain weight. When one’s sugar level is balanced, one will not feel the overwhelming urge or get cravings, which causes one to overeat in the process.

The protein also helps reduce the sensation of hunger by releasing the Peptide YY, which is also known as the weight loss hormone. Once the hormones are released, the person will feel less hungry and thus reduce the food that he or she consumes.

Proteins also help build muscles, which help burn fats. The more calories that the muscles burn the more fats are converted to energy. By having more muscles in the body, the faster the metabolism rate of the person and the faster the person loses weight.

Recommended Dosage

Of course, too much of something is always bad, and eating too much protein is not exempt form this caveat. Depending on the person that would take the proteins, the FDA daily-recommended amount starts from 45-57 grams every day. That dosage though is only to prevent one from losing their muscles. In order to build up muscles and maintain it, it is best to eat higher servings of lean proteins. You can talk with a health provider or your personal trainer of the recommended dosage for optimum benefits.

Choosing the Protein Type

One of the most important things that one should consider before one decides to do the protein diet is to choose the protein that would be the basis of the diet. It is necessary to choose the best possible option to ensure that it will be healthy and ideal for your diet. As mentioned above, there are various protein resources available and we would be discussing it below.

One of the most controversial that rocked the diet scene is the protein diet that is based on soy. Soy protein is said to affect the thyroid glands, although studies and other researches are still being conducted to prove whether the soy protein is beneficial or harmful.

The next protein based diet comes from meats of animals. Many bodybuilders opt for animal meats consuming hundreds to build their muscles. However, animal meats also contain huge amounts of saturated fats that are bad for one’s health. Many animals are also injected with medicines and other hormones, which can be harmful to the person’s health.  If you want your protein to come from animal meats, it is advisable to buy only meat from organic or free-range animals. It might be expensive but when it comes to your health, you should not spare anything.

A protein that comes from whey is another type of protein that is popular. Whey protein and protein that one can get from dairy products are also in demand although it is frowned upon by many animal activists because of cases of animal abuse.

The best type of protein comes from fishes and plant seeds. Fishes such as salmons, sardines, mackerel, herring, trout and Pollock are rich in omega 3 fatty acids. The omega acids help reduce fats and at the same time contribute to the health of our skin. This is why many nutritionists and dieticians recommend eating fishes and replacing animal meat with it. On the other hand, plant seeds, especially ones obtained from the chia and hemp variety offers fiber as well as other nutrients. It is also convenient as you can mix these with other foods.

When To Take Proteins

To ensure that you get the most out of your protein diet, it is crucial that you know when to eat protein and when to refrain from it. For dieters, the best time to take protein is during the morning hours and before you start your workout.

One reason behind this is that protein intake would boost your metabolism, which is responsible for burning fat and converting it into energy.  This gives the person the needed energy for the whole day. Working out also causes some tears as well as burns up energy. Protein ensures that you have energy and at the same time it helps repair muscles and tissues.  Consuming the right amount of protein also ensures that you get the optimum result in a shorter period.

Keep in mind that it is important to eat a balanced diet so you need a health combination of lean proteins and fresh vegetables and whole grains to be healthy and slim.

Zach enjoys writing about fitness and weight loss, he loves bodybuilding, hiking and running.

Train Lean, Train Mean. 10 Exercises To Get You Lean FAST

Posted: February 22, 2013 in Reviews, Workout Plans
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Most people would love to have a lean, ripped physique, but getting your body to this level of perfection does take a little work on your part. A healthy diet is one of the important factors when it comes to achieving that beautiful body, but the right exercises are also important.

If you want to get lean fast, you need to ensure you are doing the right type of exercise, and there are a number of different exercises that can help you in your bid to get a great body in record time. These exercises, combined with healthy eating, can help to ensure you achieve the body you have been striving for. Fitness has become an important part of any healthy lifestyle, and this is an industry that has expanded rapidly in line with rising demand from people who are keen to get into shape and stay in shape.

Effective exercises to help get you into shape fast

If you want to get a lean, mean, ripped body in double quick time, here are some of the exercises that can help.

  • Exercise bike: You can use your exercise bike from the comfort of home, and even use it whilst watching TV. Doing a combination of short bursts at high speed pedalling and then slowing it down can help to get your metabolism going.
  • Running: One of the most effective exercises, this can help to get you lean and in shape completely free of charge. Whether you go running around the block, running in the park, or have a special route that you like to follow, this can be very effective in helping you to lose weight and get toned.
  • Skipping: If you want to get the heart rate going, get the muscles in those legs working, and get toned, skipping is a great exercise and can be done in your own home or garden.
  • Pilates: Doing a Pilates workout a few times a week can help to get your body toned and lean, as it helps to firm up your physique and is simple to do.
  • Trampoline: These days, you can buy a perfectly good, sturdy trampoline for your garden, which can be used by adults as well as kids. This can help to burn calories as well as firm up your body.
  • Dance: Dance classes can be a great way to tone up and firm up your body for a lean look. Whether you join a dance class, follow a dance DVD, or even do Zumba on your Wii, you can really benefit from a range of different types of dance.
  • Swimming: Swimming is a great all-round exercise that can help you to burn calories, get into shape, and can help to tone up your whole body, especially if you use a range of different strokes when swimming.
  • Weight training: If you want to get lean through weight training, you need to keep your training at sensible levels. If you overdo, you can risk building a bit too much muscle, which will bulk you out. However, light weight training can help to get that body toned and lean. Not sure where to start? Find a personal trainer who has been accredited with the Australian Fitness Network to help you draw up a program.
  • Treadmill: If you want to get those legs tones, using a treadmill at the gym or in your home is a great option. You can do everything from gentle walking to brisk walking and running depending on your fitness levels and goals.
  • Skiing: If you want to get lean and have fun, skiing is a great way to do it. Whether you hit the slopes or head to a dry skiing facility, you can get into shape whilst also enjoying adrenaline pumping excitement.

Peter Platt is a computer technician who enjoys a range of sports in his spare time, using the advice and resources on Australian Fitness Network to help him stay in shape.

Obesity, Food & Exercise

Posted: February 15, 2013 in Diet and Nutrition, Non-Fitness, Reviews, Workout Plans
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The Background

Over 26% of adults aged 16+ in the UK are now classed as obese. Researchers predict that if the numbers of those classed as obese continue, by 2030 obesity will rise to 48% in male adults and 43% in female adults. Even more concerning is that 31% of boys aged 2 to 15 and 29% of girls aged 2 to 15 are now classed as obese. At this age the responsibility of a child’weight is with the parent. It is the parents’ responsibility to teach their children about living a healthy lifestyle, so that they will transfer these skills into their adult life. If we don’t start teaching our children about healthy living, the next generation are also likely to also suffer from obesity.

Causes & Effects of Obesity

So how do we learn good habits to pass onto our children? It really is simple; if you consume more calories than you burn you will gain weight. This isn’t to say we should starve ourselves, but we should consider portion size, food group balance and the time of day that we are eating. We should also enjoy regular exercise and make active pastimes a fun way to spend family time together – whether playing games in the garden, running round the park or on bike rides.

Being obese can lead to major health problems such as:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Certain cancers
  • Sleep Apnoea
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Gout

For young people in particular, obesity can also lead to emotional and psychological problems such as depression.

So let’s look at some solutions. Whether you are already looking to lose weight or not, adopting healthy habits will help you get more out of life and set great examples for the younger generation.

Food

There is no need to punish yourself with diets such as Atkins, cabbage soup diet and gluten-free diet and spend loads of money on diet pills. In most cases, the solution is simply down to choosing the right foods and exercising more.

The NHS Change 4 Life website is a great source of information for you and your family to rethink your lifestyle. There are useful tips on attributing portion sizes according to your height and weight and information on food group content and how much we should be consuming of each food group.

The Change 4 Life website also has a handy little tool to assist with meal ideas. You plug in what ingredients you have in your cupboard and it then returns meal ideas based on your ingredients – really useful to help you fit healthy eating into busy lives.

Alcohol

For adults, cutting down on alcohol consumption can help improve your mood and appearance, as it usually means clearer skin and weight loss.  Low alcohol versions of drinks are widely available in supermarkets, which is an option to try when you are looking to cut down. Or you can just change the drinks that you have already – have a single shot rather than a double or half a pint rather than a full pint at the pub.

Exercise

Physical activity is also essential to a smaller waistline and healthier lifestyle. Find out what sports teams and clubs are available for your child at school. These types of activities are often free of charge and being part of team will look great on a CV when your child is looking to go to college or apply for a job in later life. The most common school teams in the UK are rugby, cricket, football, hockey, netball, rounders and athletics.

Have a look on your local council website or visit your local leisure centre, as they will most likely have similar types of adult teams competing in district competitions or just for fun. If sport isn’t quite your thing, there are plenty of other options to be active and have fun with your family and friends, and some are free!

  • Gardening
  • Walking
  • Hiking
  • Golf
  • Running
  • Billiards
  • Ice skating
  • Bowling
  • Laser Quest
  • Paint Balling
  • Cycling
  • Roller blading

Some people eat more when they are bored so even organising a treasure hunt for your kids at home, a coffee morning with your friends, doing some arts and crafts at home or enrolling in a course can help you to avoid eating those unnecessary calories.

Britain is an overweight society and it’not down to the politicians it is down to our own lifestyle choices. So stop putting it off and change your ways today to help Britain become a healthier nation.

Featured images:

This is a guest post from Kirsty at Tenpin Bowling. Bowling is a fantastic leisure activity, so strike out, come along and play and watch those pins come tumbling down, especially f you are looking for active, family entertainment this February half term.

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