Most people shoot for three sets of each activity, but you can actually vary the number depending on how your body feels during training. Paying attention to your muscles is key, especially when determining whether to add a fourth set or move on after three.
Read MoreThe “right” number of reps can vary greatly depending on your goals. The way a bodybuilder trains is going to be different from that of an endurance athlete. It’s important to determine your goals before you start strength training, so you can follow an appropriate plan and get the results you are after.
Read MoreMost athletes spend just as much time recovering from their workouts as they do actually working out. Many of them have weekly visits with a a tissues masseuse who specializes in active release technique (ART) or a chiropractor. It helps their bodies handle the physical stress they are under.
You and I may not have an ART practitioner on retainer, but there are numerous things we can do after working out to improve our recovery.
Read More“I’m not sure I want to work with you. You’re really muscular, and I don’t want to get bulky.” I hear this sometimes from women who are thinking about training with me. I always tell them that it’s totally fine with me. You actually can’t build my kind of muscle by accident. It’s actually harder to build muscle than it is to lose weight!
When you train with me, you’re achieving your goals, not mine.
Read MoreFoam rolling removes knots and tension, much as a massage would. The pressure from your body weight against the roller forces the knot out, leaving you with muscles that are less sore, more mobile, and less prone to injury. Over the years, a number of new product have come out that work off the same principle as the foam roller, but feature different designs. These products tend to be more packable and can help you target different body parts with greater effectiveness. You may want to have a few different rollers available, so you can mix things up depending on how sore you are and which areas need targeting.
Read MoreThere are so many fitness supplements on the market, and it can be confusing to know which ones to take—and when! My research and 20 years as a personal trainer proves that supplements do make a different, especially when you’re losing weight as part of a cohesive fitness program.
Read MoreCalling all mamas! Whether her little ones are 2 or 20, now is the time to get fit. As a personal trainer, I see a lot of women struggling with weak glutes and abs. Many also have weak pelvic floor muscles from childbirth. It’s no surprise then that these three areas get most of our attention during sessions. Here are a few Mother’s Day gift ideas for the mama in your life as she works to get her body back.
Read MoreConsistency is really important when you’re building strength or cardiovascular fitness. In fact, as little as a two week break can significantly diminish your hard-won gym abilities. But sometimes the last thing you want to do is lace up and hit the gym. What should you do? Here are a few ways to push yourself when you’re not feeling like sweating.
Read MoreOne of the things I love about living in San Marcos is that there are so many things to do with my family on the weekend. Lately, we’ve been busy with jiu-jitsu competitions, but you better believe the wildflowers and mountains of San Diego County are calling my name.
Whether you’re a San Diego native, new to the area, or just visiting for a few days, here are my top picks for hikes in the area.
Read MoreInstead of going right from Christmas dinner to the couch or rushing to the mall first thing on the 26th, take 10 minutes to treat your body right.
This quick shot video features exercises that will raise your heart rate, tone your glutes, and strengthen your core. You may not burn off everything you ate on Christmas Day, but it's a great start!
Read MoreYou can’t burn calories for her, but you can give her the ultimate fitness gift. Here are a few ideas for the woman in your life who loves to workout.
Read MoreThe thought of exercising can sometimes bum you out. To change that perspective, try thinking about new types of sport or physical activities that sound fun and try one out. You might find the activity is so cool, it perks up your perspective and you realize you can have fun while exercising. If you can't think of anything, here are a few ideas that are great ways to have fun and enjoy life. Oh yeah, by the way, it's exercising too.
Read MoreOur bodies don't start showing signs of neglect for years, when we're way down the road. Also, if you are predisposed to a specific illness genetically, you may be able to keep that gene dormant if you adopt a healthy way of living now. So make a commitment today to incorporate these 7 healthy habits in your lifestyle.
Read MoreSo much to do, and so little time. Sound familiar? If you find yourself in a position where you just don't have the time to exercise, try this quick morning workout. You might find it gets your mind revved up for the day a lot better than just a cup of coffee. Trust me, your body will love you for it.
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