The Importance of Stretching
The Importance of Stretching
One question I always get asked by my personal training clients is, “How important is it to stretch?” Stretching muscles is very important for many reasons. Stretching improves the appearance of the body by lengthening the muscle for a lean, toned look. It can help increase flexibility and range of motion which are important for joint health. Stretching can improve athletic performance by increasing muscular coordination. It can also aid in preventing muscle soreness and stimulate the muscles so they recover quicker. Most importantly though is stretching can prevent or decrease the risk of activity related injuries.
Eat Breakfast to Lose Weight
Eat Breakfast to Lose Weight
One thing I emphasize with all of my personal training clients is the importance of eating a good breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day but most people are in such a rush in the morning that breakfast is often skipped or consists of the wrong foods. Studies have shown that people who eat a healthy, balanced breakfast are most successful at losing and maintaining weight loss. How can eating a healthy breakfast help you lose weight?
Can Stress Cause Weight Gain?
Can Stress Cause Weight Gain?
I have noticed more of my personal training clients asking me about stress and the effects it may have on the physique. In the busy world we live in today, stress is a way of life. Trying to maintain both a healthy lifestyle and eating habits can be difficult especially when time is scarce and schedules are packed. But too much stress can actually lead to an increase in your weight.
Will Protein Supplementation Make You Gain Weight?
Will Protein Supplementation Make You Gain Weight?
There is a misconception amongst many of my female personal training clients that consuming protein supplements or protein powder will bring about weight gain. While you can gain weight if you’re drinking a protein supplement it is not specifically the protein supplement that is causing the body to increase in weight. Muscle is composed of protein but when you add protein to your diet it is not automatically stored as muscle in the body.
What to Look for in A Personal Trainer
What to look for in a Personal Trainer
A personal trainer can be an excellent resource in guiding you towards meeting your fitness goals. But working with a personal trainer is a commitment of both time and money so you want to make sure to choose someone who will help you achieve maximum results. Here are some things to look for when you decide to hire a personal trainer.
Benefits of Hiring a Personal Trainer
What is Your Ideal Body Fat Percentage?
What is Your Ideal Body Fat Percentage?
One of the most frequently asked questions I get from my personal training clients is, “what is the ideal body fat percentage?” Body fat percentage is the percentage of fat contained on the body. For example, it you weigh 150 pounds with 10% body fat, 15 pounds of your weight consists of fat while the other 135 pounds is lean body mass. Body fat percentages also differ between men and women. Women usually carry a higher body fat percentage than men due to biological reasons. Women have more fat storing enzymes and they produce more estrogen, which promotes more fat storage.
Five Tips to Minimize Weight Gain While on Vacation
Five Tips to Minimize Weight Gain While on Vacation
I’ve been a personal trainer for more than 20 years and one of the most frequently asked questions from my clients is what to eat while on vacation. Vacation is a time to rejuvenate and relax. But does going on vacation mean your diet also goes on vacation? After putting forth many hours of hard work in the gym and kitchen you don’t want to come back home with several extra pounds to lose. Fortunately, you can still go on vacation and maintain your weight by following these simple tips.
The Benefits of a Cheat Meal
The Benefits of a Cheat Meal
For most of my personal training clients, following a prescribed diet is the most challenging part of their program while working towards improving their physique. Following a diet for weight loss requires planning, discipline and will power which can be tough when cravings strike. But incorporating one meal into your weekly diet where you eat what you’re craving can be very beneficial in helping you meet your weight loss goals.
Top Five Mistakes Made In The Gym
Top Five Mistakes Made In The Gym
As a personal trainer with over 20 years of experience, I’ve had the opportunity to observe a large magnitude of people work out at the gym. Although most people have good intentions, many people make mistakes that keep them from getting the results they are looking for. Time is precious and with busy schedules you want to ensure that you are getting the most out of your workouts. Avoid these gym blunders to make sure you are on the right track to meeting your fitness goals.