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Friday, February 1, 2013

2 Core Exercises To Trim Waistline



Two core exercises to build strength to protect the low back and trim the waistline.

These two exercises do not require equipment but proper form is key.

First exercise is a Side Plank with Scoop. If being up on your extended arm is too much, go down on your elbow. From this starting position, then scoop your arm under you body (see 2nd photo). Repeat 10 times on each side.

The second exercise is the Suitcase Crunch. This targets your lower and upper abs, obliques (sides or muffin tops :). It is also a good glut stretch. For this one, try to crunch together your legs and upper body. Ten on each side with this one too.

The best workout is to do a set of each and then go back and forth 3 times.

Do this every other day and I promise you will feel better about that bathing suite weather coming. And your lower back will be happier because it has some support.

-Tara



Monday, January 14, 2013

Workout Together = :)

Benefits of couples or small group training.

When you train with your spouse, friends, teammates or co-workers; you create a special kind of bond. Exercise releases endorphins (a feel good chemical) and this is will be shared when you workout together = more laughter, joking and bonding. Training with other people can help you be more accountable. You know your best friend will be calling you to give you a hard time if you miss a workout- only because they care. Working out together can stir up some healthy competition too. If your spouse does extra lunges- you know you have to do that many plus more. How about just a good way to catch up with your friends- muti-tasking at its best. :)

-Tara

Sunday, January 6, 2013

Pain Free Run/Walk

How to run or walk without pain.

Running and or walking can be one of the best forms of cardio. A lot of people will set out to do good but end up hurting. The main key here is proper stretching. When you run or walk; you use a lot of muscles that tighten up your hamstrings, glutes, lower back, calves, quads & hip flexors. Without the right stretches; you might feel like you have a sore knee, low back issues or slight pain in your hip flexor (top of the thigh).

These two stretches are great ones to do for your hamstrings (back of leg) and IT band (band on the side of the thigh that runs from your hip to your knee). This hamstring stretch is different because you try to keep your back flat. This activates the hamstrings and you get a better stretch. The key to the IT band stretch is to sit with one leg out in front of the other not Indian style.

Happy running, walking and stretching! :)

-Tara