You might think of breathing as something that happens naturally, which you don’t have to really “think” about, but there are many benefits in learning to breathe during exercise.
Breathing enough and breathing well during exertion and cardio work can help you prevent dizziness, improve your performance, and even assist with fat burning.
Last summer, XSport Fitness member Harold N. took a hard look at himself. The stressors of life had taken their toll on his weight, energy and mood. He decided he needed a change.
So Harold entered our Get Fit competition — but a major loss made his experience unlike any of the other finalists. Six months later, he’s a trainer at our Crestwood, IL, club where he trained last year to reclaim the body and lifestyle he once knew. And in the process, he also reframed his life on his journey to a new job, new outlook and new future.
Maybe it’s the end of a long, tiring day, or in the middle of a hard work out, or worst of all, when you’re out on the field or competing in a race… muscle cramps can really shut you down.
While they’re not uncommon, you want to avoid them. Aside from the obvious pain, these spasms can cost you your performance, or even your sleep, depending on when they occur. Because cramps seem to come on suddenly without warning, whether it be a stitch in your side while you’re running, or a “charley horse” in the middle of the night, prevention is ideal.
Perhaps you’ve heard of the popular cardio-based, total-body conditioning program created by Shawn T. – it’s called “INSANITY” and it’s based on the principles of what he calls MAX training.
Most people who give Insanity a try feel it pushes them to new training heights, which can mean more calories burned, faster results and a more efficient metabolism. But is it for you?
Maybe you’ve heard of “training to failure,” which requires you to perform a movement until you literally can’t anymore. Note: it’s not for beginners, and it’s not necessary for great results.
But there are other approaches to “as many reps as possible,” or AMRAP, which could be a great way for you to change up your workouts, break through plateaus and reach new goals.
Gone are the days of big, soft baseball players watching daisies grow on the field or sitting on the bench waiting for a quick turn at bat. Modern pros are highly-trained and in peak condition.
Today’s big league players impress with the speed of the swing, agility on the bases, power on the mound and strength behind the plate. To get that fit, try adding these exercises to your workouts.
