To get even better results from your exercising, it is a great idea to include a Bender Ball in your exercise routine.
Crunches and Bender Ball
- June 15, 2009
With crunches the back remains supported, either on the floor, or with an exercise ball like the Bender Ball.
Abdominal Exercise: Sit-Ups and Crunches
The Transversus Abdominus
- May 24, 2009
Also known as the transverse abdominus, this is the deepest of the four main abdominal muscles.
The External Oblique Muscles
- May 5, 2009
Found on the outer surface of the eight lowest ribs, on the side of the abdomen, the external oblique muscles help to stabilize and support the spine.
The Rectus Abdominus
- April 25, 2009
Have you ever seen a really muscular abdomen? It kind of looks like six rounded protrusions.
Let’s Talk Abdominals
- April 15, 2009
How familiar are we really with our very own abdominal wall? Everyone wants these mysterious “abs” stronger and shapely, but why?
First let’s talk about anatomy. Did you know there are four separate muscles that make up the abdominal wall? That’s right. The muscles of the abdominal area are called the rectus abdominus, the internal oblique, external oblique, and the transverse abdominus. There is a fifth muscle, the pyramidalis muscle, which is small and triangular in shape. It is low in the abdomen, located quite low and in front of the rectus abdominus.
These muscles work together to contain the internal organs, support the body (trunk), allow movement, and also cover and protect the internal organs.
The abdominal muscles also give support to the lower back. Weak abs can contribute to back pain.
Whole Wheat for Whole Fitness
- March 28, 2009
Human beings don’t always know what’s best for them. Throughout history, white flour has been a sign of prosperity and refinement, preferred by those who could afford it over whole wheat.
Whether white bread tastes better is a subjective question, but science is pretty clear that whole wheat, and whole grains in general, have a substantial nutritional advantage. Our bodies derive necessary vitamins and minerals from those portions of the grain that would be removed in the refining process. Whole grains are also richer in dietary fiber and may help build our body’s resistance to heart disease, cancer, and a host of other maladies.
So give whole wheat a try, and you’ll be getting more nutrition in every bite!
Excercise During Pregnancy
- March 20, 2009
Many women are concerned about continuing their exercise routines during pregnancy. If you engage in high-risk sports such as surfing or rock climbing, where a serious impact can occur, this seems prudent. But for more run-of-the-mill activities, like jogging or aerobics, you might be able to continue well into your third trimester. Always consult your physician for any special guidance about how your pregnancy should influence your workout. In most cases she will tell you that with minimal modifications you can keep it up!
As you get into the more advanced stages of pregnancy you may find that it’s hard to perform the usual motions, get creative and find alternatives that work for you! Exercising with a partner who can perform emotional and physical support is also great during pregnancy, a special time for both members of the couple.