All posts by NTrainers

The Importance and Benefit of Fitness Tracking

April 9, 2021

Technology these days has permeated every sphere of human life. Things we never conceived were possible a mere 10 years ago now seem like natural occurrences.

A part of human endeavor that has benefited immensely from technological innovation is medicine. From diagnostic devices to surgical equipment and rehabilitation tools; technology has made the practice of medicine easier and more effective.

Today when you walk into a hospital room, you will see a patient hooked up to different devices (depending on the severity of the illness). Some people need the constant monitoring of their heartbeat, others the proper circulation of their blood while some severe cases are on life support.

One very common sight that one would see is a pulse oximeter attached to a patient’s finger. This device is useful for indirectly monitoring the saturation of oxygen in a patient’s blood. It also monitors changes in the volume of blood in the skin. Then it produces a photoplethysmogram (PPG) that can be further used to determine other parameters of the patient’s health.

Apart from gadgets that are used on/for patients in the hospital, there are also those used in the wellness industry. One of the most popular is the fitness or activity tracker and surely, we know why they are the most popular.

The fitness craze is on an all-time high and we cannot say we blame anyone seeing as people have come to see the immense benefits of being fit.

This article will discuss the importance of tracking one’s fitness and the benefits thereof.

What Is A Fitness Tracker?

It is a device that is most worn on the wrist. It is used to monitor the health and wellness (fitness) of the wearer. Also known as activity trackers, they use sensors to monitor the movement, orientation, and rotation of the wearer.

This gadget collects data from the wearer and converts it into sleep quality, calories; steps and in fact every activity that the person undertakes. Some of these gadgets have sensors that monitor the altitude of the wearer this is called an altimeter. It tracks the number of stairs that a person climbs in a day.  It can also record whether you are walking, spinning, or running.

There is an alarm on the device that reminds the wearer that they are yet to complete the required number of steps for the day. It could also be about reminding them to sleep on time, walk more distance, and climb more stairs and so on.  For more one activity tracking devices, check out this site: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Activity_tracker

Uses and Benefits of a Fitness Tracker

This device comes in handy for people who need to keep track of their fitness/health progress and it offers the following benefits: –

Track Progress

The reminder in the device motivates the user to keep up with their program. When this device gives you the stats of your exercise regimen and you see the progress you have made, you would want to continue with the program.  If on the other hand you fell behind, you can also know what you need to do to catch up and meet your target.

Free Tips from The Workout Trainer

The device has an inbuilt workout trainer that is configured specifically to suit your fitness goals. So, no matter how busy you are, you have something that would constantly remind and motivate you to stick with your routine. It would also guide you just as a personal trainer would.

Monitors Your Health

With this device, you can take care of yourself because you can easily record the number of calories you burn per day. You can also monitor your heart rate and count your steps daily.  This would help you to stick to your diet and exercise regimen and regulate your sleeping pattern.

User-friendly Interface

The interface is easy to use for your daily workout. The features are all designed to keep the user on track. These features include an inbuilt screen, alarms that vibrate, history tracking and statistics.  You can check your progress even while working out without having to stop.

Read this article for more on how to use and benefit from this app/device.

Conclusion

From the above description of this great device and its benefits, you can clearly see that it is important for people to track their fitness. And since we cannot do it without help, a fitness tracker is the best way to go.

 

5 Fitness Secrets

March 21, 2021

5 Fitness Secrets You Never Knew Existed

When it comes to taking care of yourself, the first and the most common thing that comes into your mind is physical fitness, and all for the right reason. It is said that a right sound mind resides in a sound body. However, it is also true that physical fitness is not easy to achieve. Some people struggle more than others in keeping themselves physically fit.

If you have been having trouble in stay fit lately, then worry no more. This blog is going to help you in staying fit with minimum effort.

Here are some of the fitness secrets that you never knew existed so, let’s have a look and help you reach your fitness goals.

Getting Rid of Post-Workout Soreness

If you want to get a hot bod and stay fit, then you can simply not do it without shedding some pound through the workout. However, I understand that it is easier said than done. But what if I tell you that you don’t have to worry about post-workout muscle soreness? CBD can help you in getting rid of pain and getting ready for tomorrow’s workout. You can buy CBD products or grow your own weed for this purpose. crop king seeds online review will help you in this regard.

Wonders of Apple Cider Vinegar

If you don’t know this already, then it’s time that you discover the wonders of apple cider vinegar. Drinking apple cider vinegar diluted with water every morning is going to burn the stubborn fat in your body like crazy. All you have to do is make it your routine and drink two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar for weight loss every morning. Don’t forget to use a straw as it may affect your teeth if you drink it directly.

Note Down Everything You Eat Throughout the Day

You need to make sure that you are keeping track of every calorie that you are consuming. It is important because this way you’ll be able to know about your eating habits better and you’ll be able to control your diet. So, make sure that you create a chart and note down everything you eat on it.

Drink Water – As Much as You Can

One can simply not stress enough the importance of drinking water. You must know that you can’t achieve the dream of getting fit physically if you are drinking at least four liters of water every day. It helps to maintain your body in the ideal figure, and your skin also starts glowing. So, make sure that you start keeping track of the water that you’ve been drinking while you are at it.

Focus on Your Mental Health More than anything

If you think that you can achieve your physical fitness goals without taking care of your mental health, then you are wrong on so many levels. You need to make sure that you put your mental health above anything if you want to stay fit physically.

Piles Symptoms Exercise

Common Piles Symptoms You Should Know About

Piles, or also known as hemorrhoids, can be such a pain for countless reasons. It’s even worse when you remember that almost half of people end up developing them one-way or another before they turn 50 years old. On the other hand, the causes of hemorrhoids can vary, even young, healthy people can develop them, especially those who sit around all day and have little to no activity, while on the other hand people who indulge in heavy lifting are also prone to getting piles as well. So in all actuality, no one is totally safe when it comes to it, so here are some common piles symptoms you should know about!

What Are Piles?

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are basically swollen veins that can occur in your anus and the area around it – in the lower rectum. In all actuality hemorrhoids are a normal part of the human anatomy, they are a type of veins that can get out of control due to many reasons!

 

Apart from them being uncomfortable, they typically are not life-threatening and can be treated easily. The causes can vary from medical conditions to too much sitting down and lack of needed activity, so it’s crucial to determine the cause before seeking treatment.  The important thing is to spot symptoms on time and go to a professional for a checkup rather than ignore the red flags.

Pain and Itching

An obvious symptom can be itching and even pain because the person can’t sit for prolonged periods or go to the bathroom properly. These symptoms can cause feelings of unease, and one shouldn’t ignore them or take them lightly. From particular medicines to at-home treatments, thoroughly covered at healyourhemorrhoids.com, it all depends on what your situation needs. It’s essential to take this condition seriously. As much as you try to ignore it won’t simply go on its own. Consulting with your doctor is the best way to decide on the treatment. Don’t let things get bad and seek help too late. It’s always better to solve a problem when it’s small.

Feeling Uncomfortable

If you are just going about your day when suddenly you feel a strange sensation in your bottom that feels eerily uncomfortable and frequently itchy, it might be a sign you have piles. Now, this doesn’t always have to be the case, but if the sensation isn’t leaving after a while, you might want to call up your doctor and visit them just to make sure. The important thing is not to ignore the symptoms, regardless of how seemingly insignificant they might feel. Remember that piles can occur suddenly, and the symptoms can range from mild to extreme depending on the person and the reason they got them in the first place.

Lumps

If you notice any strange shapes and lumps near your anus area, this probably means you have external hemorrhoids. Sometimes, it might surprise you how suddenly piles can occur. Don’t be surprised if you get them after putting a strain on your body such as squatting and pulling a lot of weight, the good thing is you can continue your fitness journey but change it up a bit to help your pile situation! As soon as you feel the lumps, you’ll know. Since they are on the outside of your body, make sure you aren’t doing anything that can make the lumps more irritated than they already are, as the skin is extremely sensitive.

Discharge

If you notice any strange discharge in your underwear or on the toilet paper after you wipe, it might be due to your internal hemorrhoids being inflamed. When internal hemorrhoids get inflamed, they might leek and create mucus. This discharge and the added dampness can be quite irritating and can cause itching around the immediate area. Make sure you clean yourself with warm water to get rid of the uncomfortable sensation and apply wrapped ice packs on the site if you feel any burning and irritation as it helps to calm down the irritation skin.

Painless Bleeding

One of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids is painless bleeding. Obviously, this can be an indication of other things, so you need to consult a doctor to determine if you have piles or not. Piles can become inflamed, causing them to swell up, which leads to the muscles’ spasms in the near area, causing pain. But sometimes, you might notice painless bleeding! This is a pretty common symptom for bodybuilders as they hold their breath for a prolonged period of time and lift a lot of weight on a daily, this can cause sudden bleeding and hemorrhoid popping. Someone might not even know they have piles, and continue with their activities until their hemorrhoids reach a breaking point due to the pressure!

https://unsplash.com/photos/nss2eRzQwgw

Thrombosed Piles

Like with any medical condition, regardless of how common or straightforward it may be, complications can happen out of nowhere. It’s no different with piles. Sometimes people who have external hemorrhoids can develop blood clots, but this is thankfully not happening in every case. In these specific cases, the worst-case scenario is external hemorrhoids becoming thrombosed for some reason that’s yet to be discovered by doctors. Some people are just prone to getting blood clots.

 

Thrombosed hemorrhoids are visible and have a darkish blue tint to them due to the blood clot. If you feel ill and like you have a fever while already noticing common piles symptoms, you might want to call a doctor and seek medical attention, as piles can cause infections.

 

At the end of the day, if you treat the symptoms seriously and go to a doctor on time, you will not only feel better sooner, but you’ll also avoid getting any complications that can cause problems later on. This might be a perfect opportunity to change up your lifestyle for the better, try to adjust the weight lifting to your abilities, and add more cardio if you are sitting around all day! Piles aren’t as dangerous as you might think, but they might be a sign your life needs a major makeover!

 

 

 

 

Indoor Rowing To Lose Weight

Can Smart Indoor Rowing Machines Help You Lose Weight?

One of the most popular concerns when it comes to working out and exercise is whether or not a particular discipline or machine will help with weight loss. It is important to point out that there are no magical schemes or quick-fix solutions. There are not even machines that will guarantee that you lose weight.

Particularly if you don’t put the work and effort in. That’s what the real key to losing weight and seeing real noticeable results is – determination, perseverance, and lots of hard work, sweat, tears, and even a little blood (though don’t purposely hurt yourself).

Of all the many different exercise machines available these days, there is one particular piece of exercise equipment that has become increasingly popular. That piece of equipment is the indoor rowing machine.

Before we go any further, let’s clear it up once and for all – in answer to the question posed in the heading – yes, you can lose weight using an indoor rowing machine. We understand that is not enough information. This is why we are going to open up the subject a little more in the following post.

Weight Loss and Rowing

Although there are a lot of different exercise machines out there right now, there is one that has been proven time and time again to help with weight loss and that is the rowing machine. According to Harvard Health Publishing, the reason rowing machines stand out from the sea of others is that they offer a workout experience that is the closest thing to engaging all the muscle groups in your body, which is key to losing weight.

What Are the Muscles Actually Used When Rowing?

Following on from the last point, a great resource (Fitness Training Star) compares Hydrow vs Ergatta vs CITYROW Go, and they proved that it makes sense to discuss the actual muscles that are engaged when you workout using a smart rowing machine. You may or may not already know that there are more than 650 different skeletal muscles throughout the body. All these individual muscles play important roles in supporting your health in general, which is why it is so vital to keep them healthy and strong by using them, i.e. through exercise.

You will find that most exercise machines focus on one specific muscle group. For instance, exercise bikes tend to focus on lower body muscles like hamstrings, calves, and glutes.

Interestingly, the International Sports Sciences Association stated that around 86% of all muscles are engaged in each and every stroke on a rowing machine, when executed properly.

Let’s break this down further. In the lower part of your body, rowing works your calves, quads, glutes, and hamstrings. During the first part of the rowing motion, the pulling section, your trapezius, rhomboids, pecs, wrist flexors and extensors, triceps, and deltoids are engaged in your upper body.

When you complete the full pull-back motion. Don’t worry about your obliques or abs in your core, as these are also fully engaged during rowing.

How do you Actually Use Weight Rowing?

So, we have so far discussed the potential and possibility of losing weight through rowing. You are probably wondering now, how it is actually done. As we have already noted, it involves a determined and consistent approach. To give you some help, though, we are now going to discuss some specifics you can incorporate into your workout.

Check out the following link for more of the health benefits with rowing.


Sit-In your Rowing Machine Taller 

If you are interested in really firing up your core, you need to keep the correct posture and alignment. To do that, you need to sit in your rowing machine as tall as you can and stop rounding your back and hunching over. Lift up your chest, look forwards with your chin up and avoid dropping your head down. You will be able to keep the airways open and you will have a more effective and efficient rowing machine.

Concentrate on Your Legs

With each rowing stroke, it is important to drive your legs fully into the heel-rest. This helps to engage the bigger muscles that your lower body consists of, such as the glutes, and this will in turn help you to burn even more calories.

One mistake that a lot of people commonly make is focusing on utilizing their upper body as the main driving force. However, if you are looking to get the very best results possible from workouts with your rowing machine, you need to put those strong leg muscles into good use and work them hard.

A good rule of thumb about getting the best from your rowing is that 50% from your legs, 30% from your core and back, and 20% from your arms.

Do Power Strokes Intervals 

Once you have finished stretching and warming up, mix up your exercise routine into three sets of powerful strokes. These are explosive and fast strokes that are amazing for burning calories and melting fat. Although you should stick to the same rhythm throughout your workout interval, you will pull much harder with your arms and core and push much harder with your feet for rowing faster.

A good idea is to try and do 10 power strokes with a rate of 24 strokes every minute, and then 10 recovery strokes. Next, you need a secondary set of 26 strokes every minute and then follow it with another recovery set of strokes and then a final 28 strokes every minute.

HIIT or High-Intensity Interval Training exercises are the kind that is most effective for getting the most out of workouts to burn calories and melt that fat.

Try Endurance Training

Although HIIT training types of exercises are the most effective way to get the weight loss gains you are looking for, you should still use the slower and steadier endurance style workouts that can also increase your weight loss and calorie burn.

So, there you have it, the short answer is still that you can lose weight from using a rowing machine. By following the tips above and remembering the advice we have noted, you can really benefit from using a rowing machine indoors, especially if you are restricted for choice and have to pick one particular piece of equipment.

Home Strength Training Workouts

February 24, 2021

How to Get Fit from Home with Strength Training Workouts

If you are one of the many people who enjoys a work out at the gym you may have found life hard lately. Like many establishments, gyms have been forced to close for a while to limit the spread of covid-19.

Furthermore, with restrictions on movement you may not have been getting the exercise you want and need, especially if you are into strength training.

Keeping fit is not just about satisfying our physical self, but it helps keep mental health in trim too.

This has been a particular problem of late and has added to the daily problems that the situation has brought about. Why are we talking about the pandemic in an article about strength training and home gyms?

The situation we are in has directly led to increased demand in home gym equipment.

In this article we look at why you may want to invest in a home gym, what equipment you need to be looking for, and why you may wish to go down the smart gym route.

Let’s start by talking about the reasons for having a gym in the home.

Why Have a Home Gym?

If you have not thought about a home gym before now it’s likely because you had a gym membership that you used regularly. However, think about this: how much does that membership cost you annually?

And do you really get the best out of it? What about those times you mean to go for a workout, but something gets in the way? And then there’s the travel to and from the gym.

It’s a fact that many thousands of gym memberships are taken out with enthusiasm, and then the attraction wears off after a long day at work when you really can’t be bothered.

Furthermore, with gyms having been closed for a long time, it’s perhaps likely you have cancelled your membership. This is what has happened with a lot of people, and it’s no surprise.

So, the home gym becomes an alternative, but there are other reasons for having a gym in your home. For example, it’s convenient. You can use your home gym any time, and there’s no travel involved.

Others in the household can also use it, perhaps the kids or other family. You’ll be surprised how affordable home gym equipment can be.

If you check out this home gym review, you’ll see that there is more to home gyms now than there once was.

We’ll talk in more detail about smart home gyms and what they’re all about later in the article, but first let’s consider the equipment you need for a strength training home gym, and what else you need to think about.

What Equipment do You Need?

Before we get onto equipment you need to find somewhere to put your home gym. For most people this will be in a garage that is perhaps disused, or a basement.

Each of these is an ideal location for a home gym and can be adapted with ease. You need to ensure that there is plenty of space for moving around and swinging, for example, kettlebells, and also for more than one person at a time to be in the room for instances where that needs to happen.

It could be a spare bedroom or a disused living room or even a shed or outhouse. Have a look around the home before you decide and then mark out your chosen room ready for the equipment. Let’s begin by talking about the basics.

Basic Home Gym Equipment

You need to invest in a mat first of all. This is an essential item for keeping you off the floor when performing the likes of sit-ups and other seated or lying exercises.

You will find a variety of mats available from both online and high street gym equipment retailers, so make sure you get one of a suitable size for your home gym space.

You’ll also need a step or a bench for essential leg exercises. This does not have to be anything too complex just a simple step will do. In addition it is recommended that you invest in a couple of kettlebells.

These are essential implements for strength training and having different weights is useful for varying your exercises, so talk to a supplier about the best examples.

You may also want to buy a set of weights or, if you prefer, power blocks which are effectively adjustable weights that are more versatile.

These should be part of any basic gym set up and will be of great use. Now you know what the basics are – and you may want to add a cycle or a rowing machine, pull up bars and other equipment if you wish – you can start looking around for equipment at the right price.

But before you do, you might want to have a good look at smart home gyms. These have been all the rage in the last couple of years and for good reason. What is a smart gym, and why might it be your best choice? That’s our next section sorted!

What is a Smart Gym?

The latest in home-based exercise systems are the various smart gyms that are taking the home gym market to another level. What are they all about? Put simply, a smart home gym is a machine that uses digital technology to provide all the strength training equipment and exercises you need.

With video screens on which you can access training programs given by professionals and a range of other content to help, and a wide variety of exercises provided by the machine itself, you have a virtual personal trainer.

One of the best-selling smart gyms is the Tempo smart gym and it is popular for a number of reasons. The first is that it comes with a set of barbells and dumbbells as well as a full set of plates, a mat and the machine itself which consists of a central hub displaying a large screen on which you will see yourself replicated if you are using that function.

This is where the Tempo smart gym becomes intriguing. By way of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and using a selection of cleverly designed sensors, Tempo learns about you and your routine, and can recommend where you need to improve and where your strengths are.

It will also advise on amending your routine to reach your goals, which you have given the machine details of. That’s a very brief description of what Tempo is all about and we strongly recommend that you look at it and other smart gyms in more detail.

Conclusion

To conclude, a home gym is a great idea and one that you and all the household can and will make use of. The question is whether you invest in a range of traditional gym equipment for your strength training, or you go for the smart gym, perhaps the Tempo as mentioned.

We will say that on the face of it Tempo looks expensive at a retail price of $1995 (other smart gyms are similarly priced) yet once you start investing in separate items of equipment for a traditional gym the cost will soon add up to a similar amount. The choice is yours, so start planning your home gym now.

Bike Saddles What to Look For

February 18, 2021

Buying a Bike Saddle? Here’s What to Look For

Cycling is up there with one of the best activities for building strength and stamina. It has a plethora of health benefits and can be a great community-based exercise. It is a sport that can be utilized by most abilities and is fun and invigorating, leading to positivity and happiness. It’s no surprise then that cyclists get very serious about their sport and endeavor to invest in all the right gear for maximum effect.

Whether you’re a beginner, advanced, or ‘Tour De France’ quality cyclist, investing in a good quality bike with customized parts should be a priority. The saddle is a crucial part of a cycle and can make the difference between a comfortable or bumpy ride. For a man, choosing the right saddle can save a substantial amount of pain occurring in his body’s most sensitive part from restricting blood flow and nerve compression. So, what should you look for in a saddle?

What Size

With cycling, size really is important! The right size seat will ensure that you don’t slip off or have to carry extra weight from the saddle. It also cuts down the potential for serious injury, so for avid cyclists traveling long distances investing in a custom-fitted saddle is a great long-term option. The science behind the importance of correct saddle sizing is to enable the rider to sit on the bony structure of our posterior rather than the soft tissue. The sit bones on our pelvis help us feel comfortable when seated, unlike the soft tissue, which can compress nerves.

It’s useful to try different sizes to find the most suitable for your specific shape. Before choosing your saddle, measure the width between your sit bones. Many cycle shops will have tools to do this. The general idea is; the further apart your seat bones, the wider your saddle needs to be.

Understanding your flexibility is also important in choosing the most appropriate saddle because it will determine how upright you sit on your bike. You can test this by doing a few exercises. See if you can reach your toes whilst lying on your back and keeping your leg straight. Then try bringing your knees to your chest; this should determine how flexible you are and show how you will position yourself on the bike when riding. With this information, you will be able to choose what saddle will serve you the best.

If you are mostly going to be riding in the city and adopting an upright position, then a flat saddle is the best choice. It’s also suitable for fast riding as you can alter the saddle position when needed. Waved saddles are raised at the back, slope down then flatten out. This saddle is suitable for riders who like to remain in the same position when rising and want to feel fully supported.

Ensuring your seat is in the right position is essential for preventing potential injury. It’s useful to go to a professional bike shop and let them adjust it for you to get this right.

Material

Because a bicycle seat is designed to support your entire body choosing a material that won’t irritate your skin is crucial for a smooth ride. Chafing and rubbing can occur when cycling long distances and is distracting and painful; this is primarily a problem with a synthetic material that can often have seams or sticky bits that can be irritating. Although the most expensive, a Leather saddle is more durable than other materials and much better for the skin. It’s also cool in the summer. Once worn in, just like a new pair of shoes, leather molds to the body and is the superior material for comfort.

If you’re on a budget and leather is out of your price range, what are the best alternatives? Most synthetic materials are water-resistant, but not all. If you cycle in all weather, make sure you choose a saddle that will not absorb moisture, making your ride troublesome. Saddles with foam padding are lightweight and spring back after use.

Saddles with gel padding are an excellent choice for beginners as they provide comfort straight away. They mold to the body immediately without the need for ‘breaking in’; however, over time, they tend to become ‘compacted’ and are heavier than the foam alternative.

There are many other factors to consider when choosing the right bike for your needs. Selecting a pro bicycle fit is an excellent option if cycling takes up a large part of your life, you will be assessed for flexibility and asked to use a machine or bike to identify your riding habits. It’s well worth investing the extra effort so you get the perfect fit. Whatever saddle you choose, I am sure it will bring you many happy hours of riding. Stay, safe cyclists.

Lifestyle Factors and Health Insurance

February 12, 2021

Major Lifestyle Factors That Will Affect Your Health Insurance Plan

Most people need health insurance. It often provides the peace of mind that if something happened to us, our loved ones would have the necessary finance. In an ideal world, we would all pay the same premiums. Sadly this is not the case, as a host of different factors can affect our insurance premiums. It’s an underwriter’s job to assess the risk of an individual dying, and this will vary from person to person.

Some factors are beyond our control, such as our age, gender, and family history. When it comes to lifestyle, however, we have more of a choice. This article outlines some of the major things an insurance company will be looking at.

Stress And Activity Levels

It may be that someone has battled with anxiety or depression. They may be on prescription medication for this currently. Stress sufferers are often more prone to having high blood pressure and heart disease. They can also be at a higher risk of developing such conditions as obesity or Diabetes.

A person’s weight can also affect their longevity. If someone lives a sedentary life they are likely to have a higher BMI (Body Mass Index). This means they would be more likely to fall prey to heart problems, arthritis, or Type 2 Diabetes.

Insurance policies are generally tailored to the person. There could be different levels of coverage or exclusion clauses. If someone were to click here they would see that people want to go online to save time and money. They expect to see different products and providers compared side by side. People also want to complete their application forms over the internet. This applies whether it’s for insurance, mortgages, credit cards, or loans.

Jobs

An office worker is far less likely to have a major accident than a construction worker on a building site. When it comes to dangerous professions we can include firefighters, the police, roofers, builders, and the military. A firefighter could be burned, or a police officer could be assaulted. A roofer or builder could fall from a great height, or a soldier could be shot and killed.

Some people are at risk of radiation exposure, such as radiographers or nuclear plant workers. Others handle hazardous chemicals, such as scientists and lorry drivers.

Alcohol

Insurance companies aren’t concerned if someone only has an occasional tipple. If they drink regularly, however, they will have to disclose how many units they consume on a weekly basis. According to the National Health Service in the UK, anyone who exceeds 14 units weekly could experience ill health as a result.

These medical conditions could range from liver disease to hypertension, or from obesity to cancer. Added to that are cardiovascular issues, and concerns over drinking and driving.

Smoking

This applies to people who are current smokers or who have done so in the last twelve months. Sadly, it can take peoples’ bodies a long time to recover from lung damage, if at all. The term ‘smoking’ embraces all forms including vaping, cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco. This is always a red flag for health insurance providers. Smokers often pay up to 50% more for their premiums than nonsmokers.

One concern would be the possibility of oral cancer. UK medical research reveals that smoking is responsible for 7/10 lung cancer cases.

Illegal Drugs

They are illegal for a reason: because they damage peoples’ health. In the first instance, this applies to a person’s mental health.

Additional causes for concern are bloodborne viruses such as HIV, HCV, and HBV.

Hobbies

No insurance company will increase its premiums if someone is a stamp collector. In contrast, there are a large number of hobbies that will affect it.

They include skydiving, hang gliding and parachuting, rock climbing, bungee jumping, and potholing. Additionally, there is abseiling, scuba diving, and racing.

Poor Diet

The more unhealthy a person’s diet, the more likely they will be to experience high cholesterol levels. Unwise eating can result in a person developing Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, or obesity.

It is always essential, to be honest when completing the insurance application form. Should you fail to disclose something, it could invalidate your policy. That means the company could refuse to pay anything in the event of a claim.

As we can see, there are many things for a medical underwriter to consider before they insure someone. Consequently, some people will be declined insurance whilst others will pay higher premiums. A third category, of course, is those who have their health policy approved at normal rates.

Lap-Band Surgery and Weight Loss

February 4, 2021

How Does LAP-BAND Surgery Help with Weight Loss?

Weight loss is an important aspect of human endeavors. This is because humans of all sizes, shapes, and nationalities love to look their best. The media has always promoted slim people to mean fit. Even though this is not always the case, in reality, medical science has enlightened the general public in that regard.

Weight loss used to be a term synonymous with women. Due to this fact, it became shocking to find men secretly wear waist trainers and subscribing to weight loss programs. Usually, men only utilized the gym to enhance their packs as their primary aim was basically to tension the women and not because they wanted to appear in a certain way or conform to societal standards.
Women, on the other hand, have been put under pressure to believe that wearing any dress size above a fourteen simply is a red flag and signals cosmetic danger. Various news reports, films, and music videos have a way of appealing more to slimmer models. In fact reports have it that plus-size women are naturally body shamed and seldomly get entertainment-related jobs. The exception includes scripts that involve plus-size women and most times they are scripts that portray them in a funny light as they are rarely given lead roles in films and adverts.

Health is Wealth

Weight loss has also become popular among households because of its health benefits. Most ailments require a reduction in fatty foods and junk and this has a positive effect on the reduction of the overall weight of the body. The United States weight loss market recorded a huge market worth of about seventy-two billion dollars. In addition, a lot of health practitioners have further admonished that daily exercise also helps to improve the quality of life and this, in turn, aids weight loss.
Research has also revealed that those who snore can sometimes reduce it to the barest minimum if they reduce their weight. Also, people are constantly examining their body mass index to determine if they have crossed the obesity line. The problem associated with weight loss is that even though it is desirable as people want to look slimmer, it is such a herculean task. Even though it is not impossible, a lot of determination and consistency are required.

Surgery and Secrecy

A lot of people in time past have secretly undergone surgery to get rid of excess fat in places that are not socially acceptable and even though this helps for a while. They soon realize they are gaining weight in places not socially pleasing to society and are at a loss on what to do. Others however find avenues to reduce their fat by spending hours in the gym and losing only a few kilograms.
A new invention called the lap-band is the latest magic that has aided weight loss. The trick why this works more than other trial methods is because of the lap band itself. The band mechanism reduces the amount of food you are able to consume. The amount of food consumed is responsible for the continuous increase in body weight. Finding out how you can reduce weight here in this aspect of your weight loss plan can be complemented well by a lap band.
A lap band is a form of restrictive bariatric surgery and it basically controls the human stomach and it also aids digestion. This means that the hunger of any individual who has the lap band would be satisfied quickly. Having a large appetite would no longer be the individual’s problem as the lap band has taken care of that aspect.

Merits of the Band

The merits of this band cannot be overemphasized because it aids the weight loss journey of anyone subscribed to it. The band is also adjustable, this simply means once you get to your desired weight, you can have the band adjusted at any time scheduled.

Another advantage is that up to seventy percent of the excess weight of the patient can be lost when subscribed to this procedure. A medical doctor stated that even after the lap band has been removed, patients would still continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating in small amounts even after three years. People who are severely overweight and have not responded to all the weight loss programs that they have subjected their bodies to should endeavor to try out this method. As it has been proven medically to work, patients whose body mass index (BMI) has crossed the healthy line should definitely consult a medical doctor and discuss their options.


Losing weight is easier for some than others. The natural method of exercising and controlling one’s appetite is most preferable and recommended because it involves a lesser risk and has no demerits. However, the lap band procedure is also minimally invasive and requires only a shorter procedure.

Fitness at Home Part 3

January 29, 2021

Lisa snow personal trainerHome Fitness Equipment, part 3

by Lisa Snow, personal trainer

In my last posts, we covered the benefits of the TRX Suspension Trainer for home strength training and the BOSU Next Gen for balance and core.  But what if you’re more into stretching than sweating?  Because yoga the perfect combination of balance, mobility, and breathing, it’s one of the best things you can do for your body.  If you’re signing up for a 1-on-1 yoga teacher or class, it’s time to get a high quality yoga mat and blocks.
Most mats are made from the same sad ingredients — PVC and other plastics filled with chemicals.  Not exactly the “healthy” image you have of yoga, right?  When you try to buy “natural” or “nontoxic” mats, they’re often made from natural rubber, which can have a really intense smell that takes a week or more to outgas.  Other “nontoxic” mats are made of recycled rubber, which can still contain leftover creepy chemicals.
So what’s the solution?  I’ve had really good luck with Jade Yoga mats.  They are made from natural rubber, but the smell dissipates in a couple hours, NOT weeks like other brands.  The grip is awesome, and they’re heavy enough to be durable.  After so many bad experiences with other rubber mat brands, I never thought I’d like one, but my Jade mat has lasted and the grip is excellent.  The Harmony mat ( https://jadeyoga.com/collections/yoga-mats/products/harmony-mat?variant=1197640524 ) from Jade comes in a wide variety of colors, and the price tag (around $80) is totally reasonable for someone who’s only going to take one yoga class a week.  (Cheap $30 mats don’t last, and actually cost you more money in the end.)
Whether you’re super serious about yoga, or have joint pain, you may want more cushioning.  If so, it’s worth a little extra cash to get the Fusion mat ( https://jadeyoga.com/collections/yoga-mats/products/fusion-mat?variant=1225775176 ) (around $135).  It’s thicker and more comfortable, but doesn’t come in quite as many colors.  The XW Fusion ( https://jadeyoga.com/collections/yoga-mats/products/xw-fusion) is the same thickness, but has a larger footprint, great for those who are tall or have broad shoulders (around $180).  It only comes in one reversible color, though (purple on one side, dark blue on the other).
Another great option is a cork yoga mat.  While I don’t love cork yoga BLOCKS (just too hard/dense for my wimpy hands!), cork yoga MATS can be great.  Yoloha Yoga makes many different types of mats with a combination of cork and recycled rubber.  They have a unique process to remove most chemicals from the rubber, leaving you with a healthy mat.  When I opened mine, there was no intense smell, and the mats are visually stunning.  Cork mats range from totally reasonable (around $80) to seriously ritzy (around $180).
A great way to get started is Yoloha’s “try before you buy” option ( https://yolohayoga.com/product/try-before-you-buy/ ).  Considering it’s only $10, you think you’re just getting swatches.  But no!  These small mats are actually useful!  Whether you’re on the road, and want something small (not a full size mat), or want to add an extra layer of cushion on top of your home mat, you’ll want to hang onto these samples and put them to work!  Note how the different cork mats feel (some, like the Unity, are really heavy and durable, while others, like the Aura, are quite lightweight, but still strong).  If you later buy a full size mat, they credit you the $10 you already spent, making the mini-mats free.
Note that natural rubber does contain latex, so if you have a latex allergy, Jade, Manduka, Yoloha, and even some Gaiam mats aren’t for you.  Your best bet might be a TPE mat, like the Prana ECO mat.
Whatever mat you pick, just remember you’ll be looking right at it, so colors that inspire you are worth a few extra dollars.  But as always, perfect is the enemy of good.  Don’t have a mat yet, but feel tight from sitting?  Do 5 min of yoga right on your floor.  The grip won’t be perfect, but you’ll have done SOMETHING to move your body today.  And that is a win.

Lisa Snow

ACE & NSCA Certified Personal Trainer
President

Reasons Why Staying Fit is Important

January 27, 2021

There are many reasons why staying fit is essential. The following will explore some of the reasons you might want to consider putting in a bit of time and effort into the fitness department.

Of course, every person is different. Always consider your allergies, medical history, medical conditions, medications, and mental health when looking for ways to incorporate fitness-inducing habits into your daily life. If you are unsure whether a workout regime, diet, sleep schedule, or any other fitness-related change is suitable for you, speak to your healthcare provider about the change before enacting it.

Weight Loss

Let’s get this point out of the way right at the beginning. For many people, fitness is associated with weight loss. This is because physical activity burns calories and dietary changes alter the amount and type of calories coming in. Many people who pursue fitness find that they end up losing a little bit of weight (sometimes they lose a lot). Being a healthy weight can reduce your risk of several chronic diseases as well as increase your daily comfort levels. Some fitness regimens are even specifically designed to bring about weight loss.

Greater Energy Levels

Most of us wouldn’t say no to a bit of extra energy. Let’s face it; our lives can be draining at times. There are work and relationships, home maintenance, self-care, school, family matters, and the general political-social landscape to deal with. Regular exercise, which is a major component of fitness, results in oxygen and nutrients being delivered to your tissues and improves your cardiovascular system’s efficiency. The result of these changes is bigger energy throughout the day.

Boost Your Mood

We’re willing to bet that most of us wouldn’t say no to a boost in our mood either. It turns out that regular exercise and healthy eating can both result in the stimulation of various brain chemicals that result in more feelings of happiness and fewer feelings of anxiety. Many people also experience an improvement in their confidence and self-esteem as they get fitter.

Get Better Sleep

Sleep is linked to pretty much every area of our health. It influences our mental and emotional states, physical health, weight, relationships, work performance, and cognitive abilities. Regular physical activity helps people fall asleep faster, get higher quality sleep, and spend more time in deep sleep cycles. The one side note here is that exercising too close to bedtime can have the opposite effect. Give your body a little time to wind down between exercise and when you want to go to sleep.

Improved Sex Life

Studies have shown that regular physical activity boosts your energy levels, improves your confidence in your physical appearance, enhances arousal for women, and reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction in men. All of these results combined can produce improvements in the bedroom.

Reduce The Risk Of Health Conditions And Some Diseases

Staying on top of your fitness can also help you deal with several common health concerns. Chronic diseases are among some of the leading causes of death in the United States. Regular physical activity can prevent or reduce symptoms associated with:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Stroke
  • Arthritis
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Many types of cancer
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Falls

Build Stronger Muscles And Bones

Physical activity can help you build muscle and bone density. This is because when you exercise, your body releases hormones that help your muscles absorb amino acids. As we get older, we tend to lose muscle mass and function. This, in turn, can result in injuries or disabilities.

Improving bone density is also the number one thing you can do to help prevent or reduce osteoporosis in later life. Experts at fintys.com.au/fitness/ emphasize that any activity that has you working against gravity (hiking, jogging, or playing tennis) can have a weight-bearing effect that improves your bone health. They state that weight lifting is the most effective in this regard.

Clear, Glowing Skin

A daily sweat session can do more than improve the inside of your body. Regular exercise can promote your body’s production of natural antioxidants (which protect cells from aging), stimulate blood flow (inducing skin cell adaptations), and help your body expel toxins through your sweat. These factors have all been shown to increase the clarity of your skin as well as reduce age-related skin symptoms.

The above information should have given you more than enough reasons to give fitness a try. If you’re just starting out on your health journey, make sure to take things slowly and develop an understanding of proper form during exercise to make sure that you’re not risking injury unnecessarily.