Annnnndddd Stretch 2, 3, 4….Workout That Lower Back!

May 24, 2010 by akemp  
Filed under Health & Fitness

human back

Image via Wikipedia

About 3 years ago, I pulled a muscle in my back when dancing. Though I’ve had medication and massages, nothing (except for a good bout of physical therapy which I don’t want to pay for) will cure it. One thing that I know a physical therapist will prescribe is various exercies for my back. I figured that I could turn to the internet in my time of need, and it didn’t dissapoint. :)

I found an article that lists various lower back exercises. Since trying these, I haven’t had a really bad spasm in eight months, which is amazing seeing as I would have them every two. If you’re suffering from lower back pain, hopefully these’ll help you like they helped me. :) Be careful though, jerky movements are NOT the way to go. Trust me, I know.

How do you workout your lower back?

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Old school fun is new school fitness!

April 2, 2010 by akemp  
Filed under Health & Fitness

Hula hoop

Image via Wikipedia

After reading up on the health benefits of hula hooping, I am buying one this weekend. What was once a child’s toy, is a fitness tool that can whip your body into shape before you know it.  I find myself hula hooping in stores whenever I see one!

Fun dance classes, childhood sports leagues, and celebrity fitness videos all try to to fill the void between fitness and fun. Well, I think a hula hoop will do just fine. With loud, fun music and friends to have a good time with, working out will just seem like a fun get together.

The best part is that you can do it anywhere. Unless you live in a heavily decorated place with a lot of glass, move some furniture around or find some room to get your groove on.

Drop pounds, tone your core and have fun with this unique exercise.  Weighted hula hoops have been proven easier to use and can help burn more calories.

Do you know how to hula hoop?

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Food Labels: To Read or Not to Read? That is the Question

February 5, 2010 by akemp  
Filed under Food

apple green fruit 240421 lHave you ever taken the time to read the nutrition labels on items in the grocery store?

I’m sure we have all seen the common labels Made with whole grains; Omega 3; Made with real fruit; Zero trans fat; Free range eggs; and even Tastes like medicine!

You probably already know that fruits and vegetables are a healthy choice for your diet. But what about the “packaged junk food fortified with vitamin and fiber powder that screams for attention?” They can all be misleading if you are not aware of what they really mean.

It can be frustrating to want to buy something you really crave to eat, the label says its good for you, but then it turns out to not be so healthy after all. It’s time to expose some misconceptions about food products before putting those desired items into your grocery cart.

Do you know what they really mean? Take a closer look.