Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Proform Elliptical

Exercising on an elliptical machine is an excellent way to get cardiovascular benefits without putting pressure on your joints. Ellipticals have become very popular with people who want the same benefits that can be obtained from running on a treadmill while avoiding the risks associated with a high impact exercise. Through innovation and design, ProForm has become a top of the line home gym equipment manufacturer offering a range of high quality ellipticals. If you are interested in getting a ProForm elliptical for your home, learn more about two of the available models and their product features.

990 CSE - Between the technological features and the comfortable design, this ProForm elliptical machine is one of the most popular. The machine has been designed to be compatible with iFit. This means that you can receive workouts that are powered by Google Maps, have an opportunity to train with Jillian Michaels, and be able to connect with friends who are also exercising. There are 20 different workouts built-in to the machine that help you work on endurance and targeting specific muscle groups. If you want to work out based on your heart rate, you can monitor it while you exercise when you use the Dual-Grip CardioGrip Heart Monitor. To keep you comfortable while you exercise, you will find a CoolAire workout fan built-in to the main console like the AC in your car. This ProForm elliptical features the patented SpaceSaver technology that gives it the ability to fold up quickly and easily. When you fold it up, you can save three feet of floor space when the elliptical is not in use. It has a 325 pound weight capacity, and a power incline ramp.

510 E - An economical choice for someone who does not need all the bells and whistles of the 990 CSE, this ProForm elliptical offers the same advanced design and quality as a more expensive model. The stride adjust incline ramp can be set to five different positions to help you isolate specific muscle groups during your workout. Like the other model, it is compatible with the iFit functionality. You can have access to a variety of workouts or connect and compete with friends who are working on their fitness goals. If you have an iPod, you can connect it to your ProForm elliptical and listen to the sound through the two inch speakers. It comes with 18 built-in workout apps, and a heart rate sensor to help you monitor your workout. Although you cannot fold up this machine with SpaceSaver design, it does have a smaller footprint than some of the other ProForm elliptical machines. The weight capacity for this machine is 275 pounds, and the incline ramp must be adjusted manually.

Friday, July 5, 2013

Advantages Of Waxing For Hair Removal

Waxing is an inexpensive and effective method to temporarily get rid of unwanted hair from any part of your body. It is one of the oldest methods used to remove hair from hands, legs, armpits, face and bikini area. With DIY kits available in the market, you can also do waxing at home.

Gone are the days when waxing for hair removal was only used by women. Today, men too use this method to get rid of hair from different body parts. There are several benefits associated with using wax for hair removal.

- Hair can be removed from both small and large areas- There are waxing strips available in different sizes today. They help in removing hair not only from large areas like hands, legs, arms, back and chest but also smaller areas like upper lips, eyebrows and armpits.

- Easy to Use- Waxing is an easy method and does not involve much hassle.

- Takes longer time in re-growth of hair- When you remove hair with wax, they usually take 3-5 weeks to grow back. This saves you from the hassle of removing hair every other day. After waxing regularly, you will notice that you hair growth has slowed down or it has stopped completely for some areas. This means that the intervals between your waxing will increase and you will be less stressed about removing unwanted body hair frequently.

- Smooth hair- The hair that grows after wax is fine and smooth. If you use other hair removal methods like shaving, you will notice that hair not only grows faster but they are also very hard.

- Soft skin- Waxing makes you feel good about your skin. It leaves your skin soft and smooth. You can easily wear those sleeveless and backless tops and dresses without worrying about unwanted hair. Waxing is a great way to flaunt soft and glowing skin.

-Inexpensive- Waxing is an inexpensive way of hair removal. All you need to do is get wax, a wax heater and hair removal strips and you can use them whenever you feel like. At some occasions, you hardly get time to go to a parlor and get your hair removed. Also going to a spa every time can prove to be costly. The DIY waxing kits come in very handy and you can easily remove hair at home using them.

Waxing is one of the best ways for hair removal. It removes hair from the root and leaves you with a soft and glowing skin. If you have any skin allergy, don't forget to consult a dermatologist before using wax.

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

How to Prepare for a CLIA Inspection?

Scientists, medical specialists, and lab technicians all attempt to keep their workspaces clean, sanitary, and free of contaminants that may, at best, introduce errors into their work and research but that may, at worst, make someone sick or even kill them. Because of this, many governmental bodies have attempted to develop guidelines that can be used not only for ensuring that labs and equipment are sterile, but also for the inspection and accreditation of those labs. Of those organizations, perhaps no one has the same recognition for dedication to excellence as the Centers for Disease Control, the CDC. The CDC is an agency that specializes not only in laboratory techniques, but also in helping other labs remain clean and effective. In order to do this, the CDC has developed what it calls the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988, or the CLIA. The CLIA are a set of guidelines that all American laboratories engaged in human testing must adhere to and the CDC field offices conduct biannual inspections of each lab. These inspections cover both state and federal guidelines for human testing labs, and failure to successfully complete a CLIA inspection can have consequences ranging from steep fines to the lab being shut down entirely.

Luckily, the CDC, as well as many other state and federal agencies, not only have frequent workshops on keeping your lab up to date with CLIA rules, but also they offer help in ensuring all CLIA guidelines are being followed. Also, CLIA field offices also sponsor continuing education courses for lab personnel that helps them learn, and to teach others, the basics of CLIA certification and adherence. By attending these meetings and by following a few simple guidelines, a biannual CLIA inspection can be not only simple and easy, but cheap as well. Some guidelines for preparing for a CLIA inspection include:

Always ensure that signature-required documents have signatures. Many routine signature-required documents go unsigned in busy offices, and technicians assume they will have time to sign off on them later. Unfortunately, CLIA inspections officers will check these documents first, and if discrepancies are found they will note them for their review.

Double and triple check supply expiration dates. CLIA inspections focus on the details, and having products in the lab that are even a single day out of date can be a cause for a steep penalty. To keep this from happening, and to make sure that your clients and patients remain safe, always dispose of these supplies, and make sure you do so properly.

Never allow food or drink in the lab. Everyone knows that contaminations can occur from food and drink, and the possibility of your staff becoming sick increases if they eat or drink around the lab. However, everyone is human and mistakes are bound to happen if a tight watch isn't kept over lab technicians and staff. CLIA inspectors will be carefully searching for crumbs and water rings as a sign of food being in the lab. So the best solution is to head it off at the pass and not allow it to begin with.

Regardless of the type of lab you run, and regardless of its size, CLIA inspection will only take a few hours. Because CLIA inspectors are often seen as an enemy, it is common for staff to be discourteous to them. However, it's important to remember that CLIA inspectors are performing an important job, and that they have the backing of state and federal governments. Because of this, it's best to attempt to head off any deficiencies before the inspector arrives, rather than to argue or persuade them to change their mind once they are there.

Saturday, June 29, 2013

Best Treadmill For Running - Things You Should Look For in a Treadmill

Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or not, you should have observed growing popularity of treadmills in the homes. The treadmill provides a low-impact cardio exercise which protects your joints and is a preferred activity for individuals who want a good cardio workout without a lot of pounding on the joints. You can truly expect a fantastic workout with this terrific machine. Nonetheless, buying a treadmill is a difficult task due to the presence of a lot of brands and models out there. Most top quality treadmills share several features which you could search for when shopping to find the best treadmill for running. Here are a few things to remember as you shop around for the best treadmill for running.

Cushioning systems are implemented to lower joint ache, to better imitate running, and to add extra resistance. The best treadmill for running provides a better level of cushioning for longer runs. Manufacturers use various methods of cushioning, including impact absorbing suspensions and flexible decks or frames. The very best systems give variable cushioning under various portions of the belt: optimum cushioning at the front impact zone, intermediate cushioning in the center transition zone, and firm cushioning in the back push-off area. This gives a very reasonable sensation. Improperly designed point cushioning systems end up feeling like mini trampolines and can in fact do more harm than good. You need to avoid treadmills which utilize springs for shock absorption. The reason is truly straightforward, springs actually do absorb the impact but it "spring" and release back the unfavorable energy back to the user which will make the situation worst.

Regardless of your workout habits, your treadmill's motor matters. The motor drives the treadbelt, or track, forward. Horsepower (H. P) is a measure of the motor's power. Horsepower ratings could be identified by peak performance, intermediate duty or continuous duty. Be wary of suppliers that list Peak Power. Peak Power are greater numbers and seem excellent, but all Peak Power shows is truly a motor's maximum power before failure, not it's sustained output (Continuous Power). You need to look for the continuous duty rating. This is the rating of the motor, with a substantial workload and constant use. Good treadmills need to have at least 1.5 C.H.P (continuous horsepower). A 2.5 C.H.P or higher is an ideal selection for individuals who plan to jog consistently on the treadmill.

The belt is an exceptionally essential element of a treadmill. It is the element which comes in constant contact with the user's jogging or running shoes. For the most resilience, search for treadmills which supply two-ply belts. You also need to think about the length of the belt. Strollers can perform quite well with a 48-inch long belt. Nevertheless, if you are preparing to run faster than a jog, 54 ins will perform more efficiently. The longer a running belt is, the more comfy and confident you will certainly feel on the treadmill. In case there are more than one users of the treadmill, it is best to buy a bigger treadmill to match the individual of the biggest dimension, as larger treadmills will also cater for individuals of smaller size.

You also need to protect your investment, so a sound treadmill guarantee is a must. You need to select a motorized treadmill with a life time guarantee on the motor and frame, or a minimum of 10-15 years at the very minimum. Typically, the longer the guarantee, the greater the treadmill's quality and price.

To find the best treadmill for running for your circumstance, make sure it is suitably rated for the scenarios you will experience. You are the only one who knows what you are actually searching for when it pertains to functions in these equipments. Remember: you get what you spend for.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Vegetarian Grocery List: What To Buy, Where And When

Say "NO!" to processed foods

There is a big discussion going on about how vegetarianism and veganism are diets that only the privileged can follow, because they have a high cost. This is hardly the case though, if you do a bit of planning. As with any other diet, buying processed foods such as microwave meals, cookies, muffins and sauces will cost you. Such choices will affect not only your wallet, but also your health. Eating a clean, whole foods diet on the other hand will save you money both in grocery and medical bills!

The planning

In order to plan your grocery list, you need to first make a rough draft of the things you consume on a daily basis. Keep in mind that you need to get daily 5-6 servings of fruits and vegetables. You also need adequate protein that you can get from legumes, eggs and dairy. So all food groups should be present in your grocery list.

The fresh stuff:
Most of your meal ingredients are probably fresh, if you are following a vegetarian diet, which means that you should shop them once or twice a week. Buying larger quantities of fruits and vegetables usually leads to rotten, wasted produce. That's both a waste of money and resources.

Lettuce, rocket, cabbages, scallions, fresh herbs, carrots, kale, cucumbers and tomatoes are some excellent salad ingredients and you should always have enough in your fridge to eat two salads a day. Buying them twice a week is a good plan. The same goes for berries, which do not stay fresh for long. Bananas, apples, kiwi, avocados, oranges, clementines, grapes, melons will keep fresh for up to a week, which means that you will need a refill only once per 7 days.

Root vegetables:
Onions, potatoes, garlic and beets will keep for a long time in a dark cupboard, so buy large quantities, preferably from your farmer's market. You can usually get a better deal if you buy a lot. It is important to buy organic potatoes, as they are consistently in the "dirty dozen" of pesticide-laden produce.

Legumes:
Buy them dry and in bulk. Canned beans might seem like a cheap and convenient solution, but you will save tons if you just buy them dry and soak them overnight. For the same price you can get almost 4 times more portions. Plus, you do not have to worry about the can additives.

Dairy and eggs:
The idea is to visit an organic farm close to you and see if you feel comfortable with the sanitary and animal treatment conditions there. Many farmers markets also carry eggs and dairy products and a proud producer will be happy to explain to you the details of their products. If that is not an option, do invest in organic produce at your local grocery store. You should not make compromises in the nutritional value of your food, because that can compromise your health. Non-organic dairy and eggs are most of the time loaded with antibiotics and growth hormones, as well as pesticides and insecticides that pass into the animals' system through the fodder.

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Tips For A Successful Bikini Model Diet

Amongst many other aspects, nutrition is very critical for a bikini model! A bikini models diet a week or two away for a commercial or magazine photo can either work in their aid or work against them! Nutrition for fitness, or bikini models means so much more than that today! That is why they must commit to whatever it is their eating, drinking, what their activities are, even look at all their bad habits, and much more!

When the time comes 7 days or so, before a magazine and photography shoot starts, fitness and bikini models must cut out all forms of alcoholic beverages to knock out any intoxicants in their bodies. Alcohol will dehydrate their body, and depending on how much is used, it can make them look sick and unhealthy! Some of the symptoms they would see are paleness, dark circles under their eyes, and even discolored looking teeth. All they should be, and need to be drinking is water, and not by any means sodas, artificial juice, or dairy beverages. Their figures do need some calcium to stay strong, so a glass of milk with supper is acceptable. The quantity of Water they should intake everyday is at least eight 12 fl. oz. glasses.

For a bikini model, if you eat properly, your exercise or fitness routine might not need to be adjusted much. Be assured to eat 4 - 6 times everyday. A demonstration of a favorable regimen would be oatmeal, and a fruit for the early meal, a nourishment bar or yogurt for their middle-morning break, a salad for lunch with a light dressing, a diet bar or yogurt for a mid-afternoon snack, a protein shake after your conditioning and training, and a smaller size dinner consisting of white meat, a steamed rice, and a skirting of greens, and their glass of milk.

The varieties of foods bikini models must have in the cupboard and refrigerator ought to be, yogurt, plenty of produce, egg whites, diet bars, fish, white meat, extra lean beef, whole grain rice, oatmeal, and vegetables. They must stay away from fatty foods, and things with an extensive amount of preservatives! Making sure they drink much water persistently throughout the course of the day! Water will help with the flushing out of infections in their body, and dramatically deflate or even annihilate swelling they could show in the course of a magazine shoot.

A bikini model diet exercise plan should never change or transition. They need to stay at their day-to-day exercising to guard off any calories the body has, is taken care of quickly. They must get in at least 45 min. of cardiovascular activity, whether it's aerobics, cycling, running, or even swimming. Cardiovascular activity before their main workout training assures the greatest success rates, being sure to burn the overloaded fat and calories they consume! The workout should be of really high intensity, that makes sure their blistering the unwanted calories and fat. Most of them do a complete body workout 2 to 5 days out of the week before a magazine photo.

Keeping their skin hydrated, and healthy looking as a bikini model is just as critical as keeping their body that way. They use a beneficial,hydration lotion that keeps the skin damp and very flourishing looking! They must implement the lotion when they get out of the shower, and before bedtime. This process guards their skin overnight, so many of them use baby oil for this therapy.

At the end of your bath, before turning off the water, just caress some baby oil from your neck to your toes, pushing it into your skin and let the hot water fall all over the skin for a few seconds, do not wash off the baby oil. Do not to put oil on to your face, doing so will result in your face looking oily, and greasy. This keeps the skin perfectly soft, maintained, and effortless all through the night. Wash your face two-folds daily, in the AM when you wake up, and at night before you go to sleep. Furthermore make sure you abstract any, and all cosmetics before bedtime. You want to help discard any chances of you having an acne break-out!

As a bikini model you have so much more to think about when it comes to your diet. You want to fulfill at the finest of your capability, and that means delivering your best results! It is critical that you implement all of these we talked about to help get you at the top-level. When you're a bikini model, there's no such concept as cutting corners, and only putting in half the effort! You want to get paid, you want more assignments, you want more displays, you'd like to move up in the design and fashion world, which can be accomplished if you have a really great magazine photo shoot!

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

How Eating Fruit Can Help You to Cure Your Acne

When the skin pores are clogged, it causes skin irritation. This skin irritation commonly comes in the form of acne. Most people suffer from acne at some point in their life. In fact, this skin condition is common among adolescents but can also affect babies and adults.

Acne is a skin disorder which is caused by several factors and one of them is the hormone called androgen. The hormonal type of acne is the most common skin disorder that people go through during the puberty age. Androgens cause the sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum. Sebum lubricates the hair to make them shiny and flexible. However, too much of the sebum along with the dead skin cells and hair follicles can cause clogged skin pores.

One way of controlling this skin irritation is by controlling the production of sebum. For men, it can be done by taking a medicine called Isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is a retinoid, a chemical which is related to Vitamin A and it is found in the human body in small amount. Women can also take the "spiro" or Spironolactone which is known for its anti-androgen properties. These drugs may be helpful in controlling the sebaceous glands but may pose some health risks to an individual. Fortunately, one can stay away from these risks through fruit diet since fruits contain vitamins that can control overactive sebaceous glands.

Below are some of the fruits that will help in minimizing acne breakout.

1. Lemon contains citric acid which helps in eliminating dead skin cells that can clog the skin pores thereby preventing skin irritation.

2. Pineapple has bromelain enzyme that reduce the swelling and inflammation of acne.

3. Banana has tryptophan aminoacide which is then converted into serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone which is thought to create a feeling of happiness therefore reducing the effect of everyday stress that can also trigger acne.

4. Strawberry has substantial amount of antioxidants which include vitamin C and alpha-hydroxy acid. These antioxidants promote healthy and youthful looking skin by removing dead skin cells.

5. Apricot is a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin B-complex. These vitamins really help in maintaining a healthy and glowing skin.

These are just some of the fruits that may not only help give your skin that perfect glow but may also help in eradicating, if not minimizing the cases of acne build-up. Regular consumption of these fruits is really essential especially to a person who is always having a regular bout of this skin problem.

However, it is important to remember that even though fruits are helpful in combating acne, there are plenty of factors that can cause this type of skin problem. So, when having a healthy fruit diet doesn't seem to be enough to treat or prevent acne, you may want to add some skin care regimen that should be right for your skin. It should be perfectly alright to try out products that use natural ingredients that are not harsh on the skin and see if it works for you. If the problem persists, it is time to take that trip and consult a dermatologist to seek professional help, care and treatment.

Friday, June 14, 2013

Food Swaps That Help Women Over 50 Burn Fat Without Exercise

Women over the age of 50 experience changes in their metabolism that make it harder for the body to handle certain nutrients. This is why it is important for a woman over 50 to "eat for her age." By following these simple food swaps you can help your body burn fat without added exercise or other lifestyle changes.

Food Swaps that burn fat:

1. Swap carbohydrate calories for protein calories. As your body ages it is less likely to convert all of the carbohydrates you eat to energy and more likely to convert them to fat. You can prevent fat storage and boost fat burning by learning to eat carbohydrates in a way that works with your age.

The trick is to look for opportunities to reduce the amount of calories that you consume in carbs and make up for those calories by increasing protein-rich foods. Your body does not easily turn protein into fat and protein can keep you satisfied longer keeping hunger away.

Here are a few ideas for eating fewer carbs and more protein:

  • Have a chicken Caesar salad, instead of a chicken sandwich
  • Have tuna salad on top of one slice of bread (easy on the mayo!)
  • Have cottage cheese, instead of cereal
  • Have a platter of peal-n-eat shrimp, instead of a bag of chips for an evening snack

2. Swap low fiber foods for high fiber foods. One tip I recommend for woman over 50 is to make diet changes with the goal of working up to eating 40 grams of fiber a day. This is a goal that will help any woman easily manage her weight because fiber is very filling and eating a high fiber diet reduces your hunger and cravings.

Eating 40 grams of fiber may sound like an ambitious goal, but it is easy to reach with a few swaps.

Here are some ideas for adding fiber foods:

  • Have a whole piece of fruit instead of fruit juice
  • Eat steel-cut oatmeal instead of sugary cold cereal
  • Choose brown rice over white rice
  • Add a side dish of black beans to any meal

If you are a woman over the age of 50 and you want to burn more fat, but you don't have time to exercise, then follow these simple food swaps throughout your day. You will make your body a more efficient fat burner without the need to change your lifestyle. You may also benefit from more regularity, less bloating, and a general healthy feeling.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Workout Machines

Fitness is becoming more and more of a focus in people's everyday lives, making all aspects of the workout and athletic industry boom in recent years. This ranges from people joining gyms for monthly memberships to buying all types of workout and athletic gear to keep themselves in shape and burn calories. On thing that people have also been purchasing are workout machines, which replicate the machines you can find in a gym. If you have the space, these machines are actually a great deal, as they will save you money paying a monthly gym membership and allow you to be the only one who works out on the equipment. Check out some of the best workout machines listed below and see if any of them work for your fitness needs.

Powertec Workbench

Retailing for around 1500 dollars, the powertec workbench is for people who are real weightlifters and bodybuilders in their spare time but also want a full body workout. There is a combination of resistance exercises and free weights to choose from, allowing you to bulk up or strengthen your longer muscles, or do a combination of both. There are over 12 stations on this workout machine, allowing you to work every muscle group with a wide variety of exercises. Three people can even use this piece of equipment at one time without interfering with each other. However, it is a big piece of equipment, meaning you'll need some real space for it.

Bowflex PR1000

For those who don't want to spend an outrageous amount of money on their home gym systems and just want to stay in shape, the Bowflex is usually the perfect of all workout machines on the market. It only costs around 600 dollars total and offers a ton of different resistance exercises for someone to do on a daily basis. There are over 30 strength exercises and a built-in rowing station that allows you to burn a lot of calories. It also doesn't take up much space of you leave it out and folds away into a small closet if space in your abode is at a premium.

Bodycraft Xpress Pro

This 2100 dollar home gym is one of those workout machines that has a little bit of everything a real workout fan needs, from bench to leg press to a cable station to a lat and curl bar for your arms and back. Parts of the machine, like the leg press, are options that can be left off so you can save money in the long run on the whole set-up. It also comes with a lifetime warranty so you will never have to buy another home gym ever again.

Friday, June 7, 2013

3 Easy Steps To Control Alcohol Drinking

A lot of people do social drinking. It is a form of socialization especially during formal events, parties and other gatherings. Sometimes, it can also be a form of celebration. However, when done in excess, that is when bad things happen. Excessive drinking is not only bad for your health but also for your friendship or any relationship that is mostly affected once a person is drunk.

Controlling excessive alcohol drinking is also not an easy thing to do especially for those people who have lived half of their live with a beer in their hands. However, people know for a fact that drinking alcohol in excess should be stopped or controlled. There are people with several attempts to stop drinking but end up failed, yet there are countless people as well who found ways to help them control their drinking habit and actually succeed. Here are a few steps to help you get started with your goal to control your drinking habit.

- Divert your interest to other things. Most alcoholic people just drink because they thought there is nothing else they can do with their spare time. Note that there are plenty of interesting things you can do either with your friends or with your family. Think of a way to divert yourself from going to a bar or to any place where alcohol is always available.

- Always be with a friend who does not drink or someone who knows his drinking limits. When going out, always make sure that you are with a responsible friend who not let you dive into your alcoholic fantasies. It always helps if there is someone who will remind you every time you are tempted to drink another glass or bottle.

- Think of the consequences. The consequences of excessive alcohol drinking are not just seen the day after but for the rest of your life. The effects of alcohol in your body go deep into your liver. So the next time you think of getting drunk, think of the effects it will bring the next morning and for the rest of your life.

Businesses and establishments that sell beverages and alcoholic drinks are even made aware of the effects of excessive drinking. They are required to take an RSA course to help people control their drinking habits when they are in a public place. And so, before anything bad will happen, consider controlling your drinking habit now. Check this out for more tips.

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

The Sean Parker Extravaganza

Sean Parker & Alexandra Lenas: Wedding Photo! Sean Parker and his new wife Alexandra Lenas look gorgeous in this lovely wedding photo! The 33-year-old businessman leans in for a kiss while surrounded by an

Sean Parker has tied the knot with Alexandra Lenas after being engaged for two years! “[The couple] were married [Saturday] evening, celebrating with 300 family and friends in a romantic, magical setting,” the 33-year-old businessman's rep shared to

Sean Parker & Alexandra Lenas: Wedding Photo! Sean Parker and his new wife Alexandra Lenas look gorgeous in this lovely wedding photo! The 33-year-old businessman leans in for a kiss while surrounded by an

Sean Parker and Alexandra Lenas's wedding was not intended as a themed affair, but a portrait of the newlyweds projects a wonderfully whimsical element from the nuptials which took place Saturday. Parker and Lenas tied the knot before a crowd of 300 at

Sean Parker & Alexandra Lenas: Wedding Photo! Sean Parker and his new wife Alexandra Lenas look gorgeous in this lovely wedding photo! The 33-year-old businessman leans in for a kiss while surrounded by an

Bruins keeping things in check

The Bruins routed the Penguins, won 6-1, and will take a 2-0 series lead back to Boston.

PITTSBURGH -- The last thing the Boston Bruins want to hear right now is any mention of their 2011 Stanley Cup championship. After the Bruins dominated the Pittsburgh Penguins in a 6-1 win in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals Monday night at

The Bruins held on tight to their 3 goal lead in the 2nd period.

The Bruins had goals in the first and last minutes of the opening frame as they ran over the sloppy and shell-shocked Penguins.

The Bruins scored early and often in their 6-1 rout of the Penguins, and we have the GIFs to prove it.

Monday, June 3, 2013

Body Acne: What Causes Body Acne Breakouts?

Body acne is caused by a combination of factors that may include hormonal changes, dietary factors, infection and genetics. Stress is not recognized as a cause but is known to increase the severity of breakouts and stress can trigger a flare.

Here, you can learn more about the causes and the solutions for the problem.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes that occur during puberty in young men and women, as well as hormonal changes associated with a woman's menstrual cycle can contribute to the problem. The increase in sex hormone production that occurs during puberty causes the hair-producing follicles to become larger and produce more sebum.

Sebum is oil that your body produces to lubricate hairs and for other purposes. A pimple starts out when sebum and dead skin cells combine to become trapped within a follicle or pore. Bacteria naturally present in the pores feeds on the combination and multiplies, creating a minor infection. Inflammation occurs as a result causing redness and additional swelling.

When body acne begins in adulthood, it may be related to pregnancy or a condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome or Cushing's disease that also cause hormonal changes. Steroid use affects the follicles and sebum-producing glands in a similar way and pimples are considered a side effect of steroid use.

Dietary Factors

Whether or not diet is a factor has been widely debated over the years. The current belief is that a high glycemic load in the diet is associated with worsening of body acne. Lists showing the glycemic load of individual foods have been published online.

Infection

Minor infection is obviously involved in all pimples but there is evidence that overgrowth of certain types or strains of bacteria are the underlying cause. Overgrowth of the P. acnes bacteria is widely accepted as the cause, particularly of severe cases of body acne. Strains of staph are also believed to play a role. All of these bacteria have developed a resistance to commonly used antibiotics in recent years.

Genetics

There seems to be some genetic factor as the condition tends to run in families and is typically present in twins who are raised apart. No specific genes have been identified as being related to body acne, but there are multiple candidates.

Solutions for Body Acne

There is little that can be done about hormonal changes and nothing to be done about genetics, although the use of appropriate skincare products can certainly be beneficial. Learning stress-reduction techniques can also help.

Following a diet that has a low glycemic load can be helpful and could also improve your overall health. Diets with a high glycemic load are associated with obesity, the development of type II diabetes and may be a cause of accelerated cellular aging.

There are excellent body lotions and facial care products that contain natural antibacterial compounds for addressing the issue of infection and bacterial overgrowth. Research has shown that antibiotic-resistant bacteria respond to natural antibacterial agents.

If you read my next article, you can learn about the natural antibacterial agents with proven benefits and the body lotions that contain them. Using the right body lotion could help you get rid of body acne for good.

You will learn more about the immediate and the long term solution by clicking HOW TO GET RID OF BODY ACNE link below in the resource box. Margaret Bell, Skin Care Specialist

Friday, May 31, 2013

How to Find a Good Medical Spa in Your Area

We always stress the importance of finding a high quality medical spa. Finding a reputable medical spa, and a location with staff you can trust is of the utmost importance.

The single largest advantage a medical spa has is the knowledge of the staff. Doctors who can listen to your needs and help identify the right treatment are an essential first step. Although essentially all procedures available at a medical spa are extremely safe and unlikely to cause injury, this always assumes well-trained staff members are using the device correctly over the course of your treatment.

This article will provide an overview of things to consider when seeking out a medical spa. We'll be looking at three main areas that can be used to identify reputable place: who owns or operates the spa, what sort of training does the staff receive, and is their equipment safe and modern? We'll also identify some easy questions you can ask over the phone to help you find the right medical spa before you go.

Is There a Doctor in the House?

One of the primary things to consider is who owns or operates a medical spa. The best medical spas tend to be either owned by doctors or run by them. Depending on the treatments offered by a spa, some or all of them will require consultation with a doctor. You certainly want to speak with a doctor before any treatment that involves prescription medication, or that may have serious dermatological impact.

If doctors seem aloof or hard to speak to, it may be a warning sign. Make sure to suss out if this doctor will be able to proactively guide you through your treatment cycle in a way you can understand and are comfortable with. When you call in, you should be easily able to book a consultation with them, and they should be friendly and knowledgeable during the consultation. Beware of anyone who keeps saying 'We can fix that' - you're looking for a realistic doctor, not an over-promising salesperson.

What to ask on the phone: What medical qualifications do the owners or operators of your spa have?

Who is Performing Your Procedure?

In addition to finding a medical spa that is run by doctors, it is also important to make sure the staff who perform the procedure have been well-trained. The ideal spa should have staff who are very experienced using the equipment required for your procedure. Try looking up some online reviews about the business on Yelp or just by searching their name online with the word 'reviews'.

Many medical spas also keep before and after photo collections of former patients as a testament to the skill of their staff and their experience with these treatments. Try asking to see such a portfolio if you have concerns about the people who are performing your procedure. If they're not good at it, their results will probably be poor also.

What to ask on the phone: How much experience does your staff members have with this procedure? What is the training procedure?

Is the Equipment Up to Date?

Lastly you want to make sure that whatever medical spa you choose has modern equipment. There have been significant advances in areas like photo facials, laser skin tightening, and redness removal treatments, among others. You want to make sure that all the equipment used is reasonably modern and is incorporating the latest advancements. Many of the prices for medical spa services seem high because the equipment is cutting edge and rather expensive itself, so beware of spas with unusually low prices. This often indicates the equipment is old and out of date, or that it was bought second-hand. The latest equipment for many laser based treatments is significantly less painful than the earlier models, another big upside.

What to ask on the phone: What equipment do you use for the Procedure, and how long have you had it for?

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Buy The Right Proform Treadmill

Treadmills are very pricey machines with a lot of moving parts, so poor maintenance can make more damage and costly repairs. Additionally, it has a wireless heart control regulation. It's units weight, running area and total dimensions of machines like Proform 505. Treadmills like these usually are not the sort of machines that you buy on a whim, so people who buy them usually do some research first. The amenities include two bottle holders along with a three speed cooling fan to deliver relaxing cool workouts.

75 HP motor, Space - Save design, i - FIT technology, 21 workout programs, and far more. Some models offer fans with three speeds that you'll be able to adjust. Twenty Five Miles - Edwin Starr - If this song won't allow you to move faster since it soulfully encourages you "go on walking" and reminds you which you "got just to walk on," Then have someone take your pulse. Using a Proform treadmill for Running is one in the best ways to get into shape and remain in great condition, since it can be a sport activity you can perform in your own time frame, and without a large amount of extravagant machines.

Time Passed - For most individuals, time elapsed is much more critical that range covered. It is based on Proform warranty which supplies a lifetime guarantee around the motor and frame, with one year of parts plus-home service guarantee. Treadmill lubricant comes having a soil repelling function which extends lifespan and also the high quality of the treadmill devices and patio's, ensuring you the top functionality of those components for the whole year, providing you sleek practice several hours. The Proform 505 CST treadmill could possibly be an outstanding selection for those who would like to begin walking or running within your own home.

So the opportunity to limit your body's natural running movement is the only drawback to using a good treadmill, It works to observe your heart fee so it is possible to make yourself last longer. Proform treadmill is a top ranked, popular cardiovascular machine for home fitness as well commercial gym for several reasons as you don't need to rely on outside weather conditions to plan your walk or run, Making it easy to exercise before the your preferred TV Show or listening your music allow you to entertain while burning your extra calories. This the most important question to ask, which is why it's listed first.

It is equipped with a deluxe sound system that can surely entertain users, 14 in-built workouts, as well as an adjustable cooling fan. The real key which is no prime secret, does the best form; in addition to doing the right level of exercise. Plus, the action of getting the belt to advance initially and make it moving might cause a strain on your joints. This can affect you afterwards because once you understand the particulars in the treadmill, you will be able to use it to your advantage in exercising.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

The Medifast Diet And Salads: What Types Are Best?

I often hear from folks who think that a salad might be an easy way to incorporate their lean and green meal on the Medifast diet. In case you don't know, the lean and green meal is when you are supposed to add in a fresh and healthful meal to the five meals that the company already provides. This is the one meal that you design on your own. I believe the purpose of this is to make sure that you get fresh foods every day and also that you learn how to make good choices. After all, the whole idea is that you aren't on the diet forever.

I get a lot of questions about what type of salad you should be eating. Common questions are whether you can eat a fast food or restaurant salad. Or if the salad can have some type of meat in it. I also get asked a lot about salad dressing. So in the following article, I will try to clarify this.

The lean and green requirements are pretty simple. You should have 5 - 7 ounces of lean protein and three servings of vegetables. Many salads can be made to fit that description. It's best to try to stick to low glycemic vegetables. So you probably wouldn't want to have salad with corn or potatoes. A green salad with some meat, egg, or other vegetarian protein does fit the bill. Most people try to stick to a low calorie and low carbohydrate salad dressing. A good rule of thumb is two tablespoons of a dressing that contains less than five grams of fat and less than six grams of carbohydrates. If you are eating out and ordering your salad from a restaurant, it makes sense to ask them for a dressing that is low in fat and calories and then have them bring it on the side rather than pouring it liberally over the salad.

And yes, I believe that you can make this work with restaurant meals and salads as long as you are careful and not afraid to speak up and make requests. Honestly, if you look carefully at fast food restaurants, you will often find a couple of selections that will work. Any garden or green salad with grilled chicken and a careful choice of dressing applied sparingly can work. Now, a salad that is loaded in bacon, croutons, and cheese isn't going to be the best choice. But a salad that is a true green and light salad meets the guidelines. I don't think that there is any need to feel as if you need to chop up vegetables if you don't have time to do that. Bagged salads and restaurant salads can work as long as you chose them well.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Rapid Weight Loss Diet Fads - Important Information and Advice

How many diets or crazy weight loss regimes have you tried in the past? No doubt countless. In fact, because today's society has more overweight persons than ever before in the entire history of the human race, weight loss regimes are among the number one practices that humans spend so much time, effort and money on. I'm sure you would agree. But why are so many of us still fat? Clearly these rapid-burn weight loss regimes (i.e., fad diets) do not work, otherwise we'd all be skinny by now, and weight problems would be a thing of the past. The following paragraphs will relate some of the crazy fad diet ideas which clearly have proved to be faulty and non-fruitful.

Crazy diet fad #1 - The Grapefruit Craze

This promises rapid weight loss if you eat unlimited amounts of grapefruit (and little else) during the day. This is based on the belief that grapefruit speeds up one's metabolism to the point where weight will magically start to melt away. This diet is not only based on starvation methods but is also very dangerous and could cause one's body permanent damage.

Crazy diet fad #2 - The "No-Carbs" Diet

I honestly don't know who made this diet up, but when you think about it, it makes little to no sense. Everyone knows that if you have 100g of fat, 100g of protein, and 100g of carbs all lined up on the table - it is the fat should be avoided due to the high kilojoule content, not the protein or the carbs. In fact, carbs by themselves are very low kilojoule. I've never been able to work this one out!

Crazy diet fad #3 - The Low-fat to No-fat diet

This also makes no sense. Fat is a highly nutritious and important element to our daily food intake. In fact, avocado, olive oil, fatty salmon and walnuts all contain healthy omega 3 fats which are absolutely essential to a healthy diet. If these fats are omitted or drastically cut back from one's intake - cravings, low-energy, low-concentration and extreme bouts of will inevitably occur. Clearly this is not how we are supposed to eat in the long-run!

Crazy diet fad #4 - The Replacement Shakes

Although I see no harm in swapping one meal a day with low-calorie diet shakes, any more and a person is liable to start going crazy. That's right, literally bonkers! You know why; it's because us humans are born to enjoy fine food, and most days, we incorporate this into our social life. If we are not able to sit down and enjoy a meal anymore, depression and moodiness often take over our 'otherwise' happy or positive self. Can this type of diet be maintained for very long? You tell me.

Crazy diet fad #5 - Counting Calories to Lose Weight

Let's be honest - who of us has not attempted counting our calorie (kilojoule) intake at some point in the past? I know I have. It can sort of be fun at first, but after a few days of it you seriously start to go loony! Keeping this up requires a massive amount of work, not to mention a lot of time involved in reading food labels and recipe energy content, recording your energy consumed, and calculating your new daily total with each consumed addition! If you want to remain reasonably sane, then counting calories to lose weight is NOT the way to go! I'd stay clear from this idea altogether.

Clearly, there are no rapid weight loss diets (i.e., crazy fad diets/ crash diets) that are really safe or suitable to conform to for very long. Attempting to burn rapid amounts of weight off is not safe and is liable to damage your body. The initial weight that comes off from fad diets may excite you, but this is only water weight that you are losing, not actual fat. Rather than attempting to lose weight rapidly you should instead undergo a healthy diet plan and moderate exercise regime that will give you steady results and will be achievable.

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Tips And Tricks For When You Are Tempted To Cheat On Medifast

I sometimes hear from folks who are concerned about what is going to happen when cravings or fatigue hits when they are on the Medifast diet. They often wonder if this means they are going to not lose any weight that week, or if they are going to gain weight. Even worse, they worry that this will be the catalyst that takes them out of compliance and puts that at risk of quitting altogether.

It's my opinion that the fear of cheating is sometimes worse than the cheating itself. I believe that cheating is a fact of life on any diet. And often, it's not the cheating that sabotages you, it's the fact that you don't get back into compliance quickly or that you don't just pick up where you left off. I also believe that how you cheat is more important than if you cheat. So in the following article, I'll offer some tips on how to handle the urge to cheat and what to do if you decide to go ahead and give in.

Know That It's Normal: I find that many people who are considering Medifast think that those who have great success never cheat and are always in perfect compliance. I don't believe that this is the case. I believe that those who have success stick with the diet until they get the results that they want. And this means that if and when they cheat, they pick themselves up and carry on. It is absolutely normal to have bad days. But the key is to not let those days turn into several days that nudge you into quitting.

Try To Distract Yourself Before You Take Action: Let's say that you have a sudden craving for a piece of chocolate fudge and you have just eaten you lean and green meal. My first course of action would be to do something else. If possible, it's optimal to go for a walk or do something physical out of the house. If this isn't possible, brush your teeth. I find that brushing my teeth makes me less likely to cheat because I don't want to contaminate my clean mouth, as silly as that sounds. Another thing that I will try is putting on new jeans that look very nice because of the weight loss. This can sometimes work to snap you out of any desire to cheat. You can also try writing in a journal. Sometimes, just describing the food and how you feel about it will be enough of a release to take your attention away from it. Finally, you can post on one of the forums on the company's website and ask for tips or just for someone to listen. Sometimes, just getting some friendly encouragement will allow you to move on.

If These Things Fail, Look For Safe Alternatives Within The Diet: Let's say you've tried all of the above and you still want that fudge, the next step would be to try and find something on the Medifast menu that will work as an alternative. I am particularly thinking of the brownies or the soft serve. You can also try one of the Medifast approved snacks like the jello or the popsicle.

If You're Going To Cheat, Then Immediately Move On For The Next Meal: I understand that sometimes that coveted food is calling your name and nothing else is going to satisfy you. If this is the case, try to eat a small portion of the food rather than having a colossal pig out session. It's my personal opinion that you may as well savor it if you are going to cheat. Why do it if it's not going to be enjoyable? Once you've made the decision, allow yourself that small and temporary pleasure and put it behind you. Don't waste time or emotional energy feeling guilty or fretting about it. What is done is done. Now it's time to move on. Go right back on the diet for the next meal and just continue forward. Because honestly, the real risk is in allowing this to derail you are get you off the diet. So it's vital that you just move on and get back in compliance without making that big of a deal about it.

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Just Let Your Natural Beauty Shine This Summer

Summer is a time to celebrate natural beauty. Indeed, with such a wonderful chance to spend time at the beach or the cabin, who has time to worry about putting on makeup?

Of course, for many people, the thought of going "au naturale" can be daunting. Most of us have wrinkles, noticeable pores, and skin discoloration that we don't want ruining our fun in the sun, and taking away from our sun-kissed summer glow. And on top of that, many of us consider eye makeup a must have for any public outing, and can't bear the thought of leaving the house without it.

The good news, however, is that at medical spas, you can address get summer-ready in no time with effective and non-invasive procedures and products. This article will address three of the most exciting summer procedures you can get at a medical spa.

3D Skin Rejuvenation for a New You

Most of us have at least one - but probably a few - skin conditions that we'd love to live without. That's why we go to great lengths to hide them from sight, often sacrificing summer fun like swimming or sun tanning.

Thankfully, 3D Skin Rejuvenation, which is available at major medical spas, effectively addresses multiple skin conditions including: redness, wrinkles, sun spots, sagging skin, and large pores. What's more, unlike other laser treatments that only address one or two conditions and therefore oblige you to combine treatments, 3D Skin Rejuvenation has all your skin needs covered!

This treatment is available to men and women of any age, and can be found at cutting-edge medical spas. While most commonly used on the face and neck, the treatment is excellent for hands, arms, and the abdomen (so you can feel confident in that new bikini). 3D Skin Rejuvenation is non-invasive, and results can be seen immediately, which means you can walk out of the medical spa and into a sizzling summer with confidence.

Pearl Photo Facials to Address Sun-Damaged Skin

Unfortunately, many skin problems are actually triggered by our love of summer. Alas, wrinkles, sun spots, and other skin can result from catching up on some rays. And while we try our best to protect our skin in the summer, sometimes our efforts still leave us with some damage or unsightly spots.

Fortunately, Pearl Photo Facials from leading medical spas are a non-invasive procedure that can reverse sun-related skin damage. And the news get even better: It only takes about 3-4 days for your damaged skin will peel off and reveal the fresh, bright, and beautiful skin hiding underneath.

Also remember that you can combine Pearl Photo Facials with other skin procedures to get the most out of your medical spa experience. That means you can take care of those other pesky skin problems, while taking a stand against existing sun damage!

LATISSE Eye Lash Enhancement for Glamorous and Low-Maintenance Lashes

With LATISSE, you can put your mascara tube aside for the summer without worrying about sparse, dull eyelashes. LATISSE is an eye lash enhancement product available at medical spas that helps you grow fuller, darker eyelashes in only 8-12 weeks. Imagine waking up on your summer vacation with beach-ready eyelashes. You won't have to worry about your mascara bleeding while in the sun or the water!

Plus, if you want to put on some extra eye makeup for an ultra-glam night on the town, it won't interfere with your LATISSE applications. So now, you can face the heat -- or all of your fun summer adventures -- with effective, safe and popular medical spa products like LATISSE.

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Grip, Lift and Rip: Implementing Sandbag Training in a Home Gym Workout - A Beginner's Guide

When the trend of fitness training began at about fifteen years ago, people really didn't care much for sandbag training. The fitness routines that were practiced at their home gym workout or at the gym mainly consisted mostly of generic workouts or aerobics. Fast forward fifteen years, and today, trained athletes, fitness specialists and the fitness industry in general have come to realize the importance of sandbag training.

Why Use a Sandbag?

First of all, sandbags are portable, which makes them great functional tools. They are also unstable, as far as lifting weights go, which can be an excellent addition to a person's workout routine and especially to a home gym workout.

The following are some of the reasons why sandbags are considered as the best home workout tools, and why you should be thinking of applying sandbag training to your gym in home workout.

Versatility:

It goes without saying that people look for versatility when choosing any form of equipment, especially for their home gym workout. With most of them having common concerns about money and time, it is often considered silly to invest great amounts of money into home gym equipment that has limited use. In this regard, sandbags offer the best home workout, since they can be used in a variety of exercises.

For instance, if one thinks that squatting is getting a bit too easy, they can do them while lifting a sandbag on one or both shoulders. A person can also hold a sandbag overhead, hold it in their arms like a zercher squat, or use it as a bear hug, etc. The versatility of a sandbag allows you to use your imagination while going through your gym in home workout.

Simplicity:

It may sound contradictory, but the most obvious reason for using a sandbag during a home gym workout is its simplicity. What makes sandbags some of the best home workout tools is the fact that one does not need to invest money for coaching or have to read complicated instruction manuals.

Rehabilitation:

If you happen to have an injury, incorporating certain sandbag movements into your gym in home workout routine can help build strength without risking any further damage to those muscles.

Improves Athleticism:

Training with a sandbag is also considered the best home workout, not only because it improves one's flexibility, but it is also a great way of enhancing a person's balance and endurance.

Sunday, May 5, 2013

What to Expect in Medical Spa Weight Loss Plans

Previously, we've focused on many of the medical treatments available at local medical spas to help you lose weight or slim down. And while all of these treatments are beneficial, quite often the best weight loss approach is to maintain a healthy diet.

Indeed, the professional staff and bariatric specialists at medical spas constantly study nutritional science in order to identify the best foods - including combination of foods - for losing weight. What's more, these doctors and other medical experts can review your medical history, your ongoing health concerns or conditions, and your overall weight goals to create a realistic nutrition strategy that works best for you.

In the remainder of this article, we'll look at what else medical spas can offer you with respect to weight loss programs, including: the benefits of weight loss programs, what to expect when you visit a medical spa, and importance of working with trained professionals. Ultimately, all of the information here is designed to help you get healthy, feel great and look your best!

The Benefits of a Weight Loss Plan
A weight loss plan from a medical spa gives you so much more than just instructions on how to follow a diet. Rather, a plan takes into account many different aspects of your lifestyle, and identifies what steps you need to take to reach your goals. It also provides you with a realistic framework of what you can expect, helps determine what steps to take along the way, identifies the ideal diet designed to shed pounds while meeting any dietary restrictions, and displays test results that give you valuable insights into what caused or causes you to gain weight.

And perhaps most importantly of all, a plan also gives you the motivation, guidance and encouragement you need to take - and keep - control of your weight, so that you can start seeing results!

What to Expect During your Medical Spa Visits
When you visit a medical spa for your first session, you should prepare to cover a lot of territory. Generally the process involves a consultation, followed by an exam performed by a doctor who specializes in bariatric medicine or nutrition. After that, your doctor will chat with you to collect more information about your medical history and other basic details, and then perform a body fat analysis, a Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement, and any other laboratory tests or EKGs as necessary. Once your doctor and her or his team have a solid understanding of your medical history and needs, it's time to discuss various options to find a diet that will achieve your weight loss goals while, of course, keeping you healthy.

The Benefits of Going to a Doctor-Owned Medical Spa for Your Weight Loss Program
Why are programs available at medical spas so successful? It's largely because each one is developed and implemented by an experienced doctor who truly understands the science of weight loss. What's more, these doctors are constantly learning, and as such they know how to separate facts from fiction, and other best practices in the field of non-invasive weight loss treatments.

Add it all up, and it simply and clearly means that when you go to a medical spa with bariatric specialists on staff, you can be assured that your personalized diet or weight loss plan will be safe, medically appropriate, and scientifically proven. What's more, you'll discover unparalleled insights into your root causes of weight gain, which will help you stay healthy and happy for decades to come!

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Alcohol Addiction - Behavioural or Chemical?

Understanding The Difference Between Behavioral and Chemical Addictions

Again I'll use simple terms to describe the differences. Very roughly it is estimated that it can take 7 or 8 years to reach alcoholism, that is a full blown chemical addiction. But what happens in the years preceding that? In my case the Alcoholism Stages were something like this:

  • First alcoholic drink at the age of 13. A half-pint can of Watneys Pale Ale.
  • First drunkenness at 16 at a wedding. 7 small cans of beer, or 3.1/2 pints
  • Got married at 20. My wife was very homesick initially, and I started to drink more to try to cope with it.
  • First child, a daughter, at 21.
  • Second child a son at 25, and by this time drinking spirits regularly
  • Pressure of work. An excuse for heavier drinking, and started getting objections to it from my wife and parents which I ignored.
  • Aged 28-29. Stopped drinking for 12 months.
  • Restarted drinking and back on it full blown within 2 weeks. Becomes a way of life.
  • 29-39 Alcoholism
  • 39-52 Dry

My estimate, or reckoning, is that my behavioral addiction turned to chemical addiction around the age of 29.

Behavioral Addiction

This is when a drinker's use of alcohol becomes a habit, then a way of life. At this stage it is reversible because if the drinker reforms, or cuts back they are still able to take alcohol, but in moderate quantities and still be in control of it.

For example, one may go to the pub every evening to enjoy the social atmosphere with other drinkers, or may enjoy a drink with company in one's own home. Nothing wrong in that you may say, but beware when you believe that you need drink to make a social gathering work. Alcoholism Warning Signs are when it becomes a habit initially, say to have a drink at lunchtime, another when coming home from work, then one or two in the evening. It becomes part of your life, part of your routine, and you find that it becomes a way of life. At this point you may even kid yourself you need a drink in the morning to help with facing up to the day ahead, and so on. You'll find that you are making the day revolve round drinking opportunities - and opportunities there are, but by this time you beginning to get devious. Hiding the bottles or receipts, disguising the alcohol in the glass with coke. Eating strong mints and so on. As this becomes full-blown,the change comes. You won't know exactly when it happens, but you find out the results later. The behavior dependency facts can be corroborated by any honest alcoholic.

Chemical Addiction

This is the stage from which there is no return. Quite simply there is a chemical reaction that occurs in the brain, an imbalance of chemicals that is like flicking a light switch. You have now become dependent on alcohol. You are unable to stop at one drink, and your drinking spirals out of control. You have one, then another, then another. Weekends and bank holidays stretch out endlessly, punctuated with drinking/sleeping/drinking. Weekdays not so bad because you can crash out into bed, until the next morning when you've got the Physical Effects Alcoholism brings: you feel nauseous, your head pounds, you shiver and sweat... You realize how bad the drink is making you feel, the terrible Effects of Alcohol, so you make a promise not to touch it for a day or a week. As soon as that time is up, your straight back on it.

My point is this. Most observers cannot understand why you can't control it, but when this stage is reached, it is literally impossible to stop at a single drink. And I mean literally. You have to have another, and another... It's a vicious illness, and that's what it has become, and you have to have the guts to face up to it that you're caught, trapped.

Kindly, well-meaning friends and family may try to help by offering to control your drinking by keeping the bottles out of sight and pouring you a drink at an agreed time. It never works, it can't do. The drinker goes underground with his own supply of liquor and drinks surreptitiously, deceitfully. Hiding places are found which only someone with experience of alcoholism could relate to. Toilet cisterns, inside the vertical vacuum cleaner, mixed with lemonade and left on a shelf in the garage, concealed in cans of cola to name a few.

What Do Behavioral Addiction and Chemical Addiction Have In Common?

Both are slowly killing you. You'll know about it from pain around your liver and kidney areas. You start vomiting and feeling nauseous even without the drink. You get shaking hands, your body shrieks at you to stop. You can't think clearly or concentrate, and you are wracked with guilt as you realize you made a fool of yourself again in front of friends. But very importantly, both behavioral addiction and chemical addiction bring out the base human traits of deception, deceit, lying, deviousness, cunning and so on. You become a very difficult person to live with. These chemical dependency facts are confirmed by my own experience.

Does This Ring Any Bells For Anybody Else?

Sunday, April 28, 2013

Does Being On Medifast Make You Tired Or Sluggish?

I sometimes hear from people who are concerned about certain things that they hear about the Medifast diet. Often, they are interested in the diet but they are concerned about the perceived side effects. One example is that of sleepiness or fatigue. I heard from someone who said: "I have a dear friend who has had a lot of success on Medifast. I am interested in going on it myself, but I am concerned about fatigue. When my friend first went on the diet, she was sleepy and tired for the first week or so. This is a big concern of mine because I have a very stressful job that requires for me to have a lot of energy. Will I be sleepy or tired of Medifast?"

It's nearly impossible for me to predict what someone's experience might be. I have heard many variations on different people's experiences. I have heard some people say that they were initially a little more tired. And I have heard some say that they actually felt more energy. There are many theories about why this happens, but here is mine.

First all of, you have to understand that when you use this diet as designed, your body should eventually go into a metabolic state called ketosis in which your body is burning its own fat. When this happens, your body is working very hard. That might be why they suggest not exercising or at least taking it easy for the first few weeks. Your body is already laboring and may not be used to this process. That's why I think that some feel fatigue, because their body is working harder than usual. However, some people report feeling extra energy as well as a lack of cravings when they hit ketosis. Again, there are a range of possible responses.

I also think that some people report having more energy on this diet is because many of the foods are lactose and gluten free and are extremely easy to digest. For people who have had digestive issues, this can make them feel much better and have much more energy since their body hasn't had to labor through digestion. Along that same line of thinking, many people go from eating three main meals to eating six smaller meals on the diet. This too can make digestion much easier.

On the flip side, some find that they have less energy from taking in fewer calories. However, since you should be eating every few hours, this becomes less of a problem because of the frequency. But to answer the question posed, it's possible that you could feel less energy when first starting the diet. But it's possible that you could feel more energetic also. Whatever you experience, most people only need to adjust for the first week or so. After that, you get used to the diet and find that you experience what is your new normal.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Wellness Benefits of Visiting a Spa

There are countless types of spa options, all of which specialize in one homeopathic remedy or another, but each one has the same general purpose and goal: to heal and relax your mind and body. The services offered at the spas provide an affordable method to distress and unwind, as opposed to booking a flight to a tropical island somewhere and sipping margaritas for a week.

A therapeutic massage at your local spa is a perfect way to relieve stress and tension. Therapeutic massages have been known to help increase your physical and emotional state. By encouraging relaxation and improving overall circulation, your body begins to increase the blood flow throughout and reduces blood pressure. Relaxing muscles and improving flexibility, as well as range of motion is another key benefit to receiving a therapeutic massage.

A pedicure and foot massage actually has many health benefits as well, since your feet carry the 'weight of the world' each day. Maintaining the health of your feet is as essential as maintaining the health throughout the rest of your body. Request an exfoliating foot massage during your next visit to remove all the dead skin cells and encourage the regrowth of cells, which will create smooth skin. The massage given with special oils and lotions during a foot massage will relieve pain and increase the circulation within the feet and calves.

A detox service at your local place will rid your body of excess fluids and toxins within your body that are harmful and cause an increase in cellulite. Most offer several options for body detoxification, from colonic detox therapy to body wraps. Internal detoxifying also alleviates back pain, skin issues, bad breath, fatigue, bloating, and gas. The goal with any detox service is to bring balance to your entire body, both internally and externally. Taking care of your body internally will promote better health externally.

Most of them offer Yoga and Pilates to members at a discounted rate, to promote wellness and healing. Yoga and Pilates not only increase your body's flexibility, but strengthen your respiratory system which will allow you to breathe better and flow more oxygen to your brain, even during the most stressful situations. These solemn poses and stretches will free your body and mind of the chaos and stress that you are suffering from and increase your ability and sleep performance.

While most people see a visit to the spa as a frivolous and costly luxury, the health benefits that they offer clients greatly out weight the price tag associated with the services. Your mind and body are connected in many ways, one of the easiest ways to care for both at once is to invite your girlfriends to one of the locals spas for a therapeutic pamper party.

Monday, April 22, 2013

Best Home Treadmill - Things To Consider Before Buying a Treadmill

In case you prefer to spend your cash in a cardio workout machine than a gym membership, purchasing a treadmill is certainly a clever choice. The treadmill in your home offers immediate access and convenience. In case you are wanting to purchase a treadmill, there are a variety of things of which you must be informed. Listed below is a list of considerations to aid you in making the right buying decision.

Cushioning is a shock-absorbent layer under the belt created to minimize the impact of your feet on the device. A proper cushioning on a treadmill helps secure the ligaments, joints and the spine while working out. A bad cushioning could cause an injury and discomfort. Individuals have had significant injuries after using ill-cushioned treadmills; some even find it hard to walk on it. Excellent cushioning is specifically crucial for prolonged workouts, such as running 5k on a treadmill. Rubber is one of the most common material used in treadmill cushioning systems, and that's good, due to the fact that it's what you want to have. The best treadmill for running would use rubber elastomers, that are placed between the deck and the frame at different areas.

An important aspect of any kind of motorized treadmill is the hp rating of its motor. A more powerful motor can deal with bigger, heavier individuals, and a treadmill with a wimpy motor will not survive as long as one with a larger motor. Most treadmill motors vary from 1.5 HP to 3.0 HP with the more economical treadmills offering lower power motors that simply will not last. Treadmill producers use 2 types of motor ratings: some list horsepower (HP) and others list continuous horsepower (CHP). You ought to look for the continuous duty rating. Some producers unfairly blow up ratings by pointing out peak horsepower-generally a greater number and not appropriate for joggers, who require continuous power for their treadmills. A good entry-level model will certainly have at the very least 1.5 horsepower continuous duty. If you run a lot on your treadmill you might wish to obtain a 2.5 HP motor.

The treadmill belt dimension is an important component in your treadmill. Belts could be single ply or 2 ply. Look for a 2 ply surface belt with a minimum width of 17 ins. You will discover belt and deck lengths from around 45 inches to over 60 inches. In case you are a jogger, get a running or belt surface length of 60 ins as a minimum. In case you only wish to walk on your treadmill look for a minimum belt surface length of 48 ins. The longer and wider a running belt is, the more comfy and positive you will feel on the treadmill.

Before you fall in love with a treadmill and its components, you need to first fall in love with the warranty. The best home treadmill generally covers about 30 years for the structure, a minimum of 5 years for the motor and about a year for other components and labor. The longer the duration of the warranty, the better is the quality.

With all of the attributes available on the market now, selecting a treadmill may be a difficult experience. Now that you have these suggestions you can begin shopping with assurance and find the best home treadmill.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

All-Or-Nothing? No Way

Are you finally ready to lose weight; for good? Well then, it's time to ditch the diet mentality once and for all, and make a genuine lifestyle shift. In other words, lose weight in a way that is sustainable rather than extreme and unrealistic like most diets. The key is to find a balance in eating and exercise that you can keep up for the rest of your life.

Powerful Weight Loss Tip...

Ditch the diet and strive for balance.

Use these tips to achieve your personal best weight and stay there for good.

If you eat it, you own it. Whether you write it down in a journal or use an app like 'My Fitness Pal', keep a record of what you are eating and how you are feeling. Not only will this give you a way to keep your eating in perspective, it will help you stay focused and in touch with what, where, when, and why you eat.

Take a 'no-guilt' approach. Look at the big picture. Having a set-back once in a while is not going to make or break your overall healthy eating and weight goals. The sooner you realize that the big piece of cake you ate today was only a small part of your overall week, the sooner you will be okay with it and move forward.

Stand in your power. Labeling food as 'good' or 'bad' gives it too much power. Remember that the food is not in control, you are. Choosing not to eat something rather than telling yourself you can't have it because it's a forbidden food, puts you in the driver's seat where you belong.

Keep moderation in mind. No matter what you are eating, you need to be mindful of portions. This is especially important if you are having something that is a special treat. If you want it, have it; but pay attention so you end up feeling satisfied rather than guilty.

See the bigger picture. Healthy eating and exercise is part of your life, but it's not your entire life. Keep your desire to be healthy and fit in perspective.

Nourish yourself throughout the day. Establish a regular eating pattern to help regulate your blood sugar and appetite. And then if you decide to have some ice cream, you're more likely to stick to one serving rather than going overboard.

Plan for indulgence. When you are in the mood to indulge, think it through beforehand. A spontaneous indulgence can easily turn into a pity party after you eat too much of something you didn't really want or even enjoy.

Know your triggers. Be honest about what leads you to overeat. If you need help dealing with your emotions, seek it out. Until you do, managing your weight may always be a struggle.

The most important aspect of achieving your personal best weight is to establish a healthy relationship with food. There is no right or wrong way to go about this. It's very personal and there are as many ways to do it as there are people. Your task is to create balance and find an eating style that feels nourishing to you. Yes - you can enjoy all the foods you love, lose weight and get healthy.

Monday, April 15, 2013

Should You Try Exposed Skin Care? Is It Worth the Price?

Exposed Skin Care - Quality Product or a WASTE OF MONEY?

At this point, most of us have read many of the Exposed skin care reviews. In fact, they were part of the reason why I decided to buy and try the product line -- well, that and the fact that I suffer from a fairly significant acne problem.

It started in my first few years of high school and has plagued me for years. I hate taking pictures, meeting guys is a nerve wracking experience and makeup just doesn't do enough.

So like most of you, I've tried most of the acne products out there. Most recently I tried the Exposed skin care line. And now I know what most of you are wondering: exactly what Exposed skin care is like and whether or not it lives up to its claims of being one of the best acne products out there today.

The Product

For those of you who aren't familiar with Exposed skin care, it's a line that has been around for a little over a year. It comes with 9 of what they claim are the best acne products, period.

In fact, Exposed promises to clear your skin in 30 days as part of their one-year money-back guarantee.

The trouble is, we've all heard these promises from "best acne products" before. And often those products don't work very well. Or, they work for a while and then stop. These false promises really shake your faith in acne products in general.

But that's not what I found with Exposed. In fact, most of the positive Exposed reviews are true. I tried the Ultimate 90-day skin-care kit. I've now been using Exposed for well over 90 days, people comment on how clear my skin is now and I've already ordered my second 9-piece kit. It really is one of the best acne products on the market.

And now I'm here to add to the other skin care reviews and give you the skinny on how the product line works. Not every Exposed skin care kit comes with all 9 pieces.

There's a 60-day 5 piece kit and a 60-day 6 piece kit. Plus you have the option to just buy the products one at a time if you're still skittish about jumping in feet first. So I'll give you a quick run-down of my experience with the products in my kit and you can make your decision from there.

The Facial Cleanser and The Microderm Scrub

In the morning and evening, I washed my face with the facial cleanser. It is designed to take all of the dirt, oil and bacteria off of your face. But for me, it did much more than that: it balanced my skin out.

Many acne-fighting facial cleansers dried my skin out. First, my dry skin would be shiny making my acne look redder and more noticeable than before. Then my skin would overproduce oil and break out even more than before.

But the facial cleanser returned my skin's moisture levels to where they are supposed to be. After a week or so of using the product, my skin was soft and supple. The redness and inflammation subsided.

Even if you don't buy the rest of the line, I highly recommend this face wash. I don't think I'll never use another face wash again.

The Exposed line also has a Microderm Scrub. I wasn't really a fan of this. I've never thought scrubs were the best acne products. They irritate my face, especially my existing pimples.

Some of the Exposed skin care reviews I read raved about this product but I disagree. If you use this at all, I would wait until the other Exposed products clear up your face. Otherwise you may find the scrub uncomfortable.

The Derm-X Cloth

This is probably one of the best acne products in the line. It's a rough cloth that acts like a scrubbing face wash but gentler. And it actually lifts black and white heads off of your skin as you scrub.

It's such a great exfoliation tool that my sister stole my first one and I had to order a second.

The Clearing Tonic and the Acne Treatment Serum

These two products are designed to be used together and they are where the real acne treatment begins. The clearing tonic goes on first, right after you wash. While the facial cleanser softens and balances your skin, the Clearing Tonic removes the excess oil and dead skin cells that clog your pores and make you break out.

The best part about the clearing tonic is that you can actually feel it working right after you put it on your face. It's a cool, fresh feeling that I look forward to every morning.

Next the Acne Treatment Serum goes on. It's a benzoyl peroxide solution that is designed to kill the acne-causing bacteria on your face.

I didn't read about this in the other product reviews but to be honest, the Acne Treatment Serum tingles just a little. If you've ever used any benzoyl peroxide product on your skin -- even from some of the best acne products available only at dermatologist offices -- then you know that that's just a part of the experience.

But unlike other serums, the Exposed Acne Treatment Serum contains a mix of other ingredients that soothe your skin. So you won't get any of the irritation or tightness that you find with other products like this.

The Clear Pore Serum

I like to call this stuff my secret weapon. Is it just me or does most acne strike overnight? For so long I dreaded that first morning look in the mirror. It was always right before school or before a date that night. And finding a new pimple or that red, swollen skin that means a big one is coming later could make the rest of the day really terrible.

If you've ever had that happen to you, you've got to get the clear pore serum. You simply rub it in before you go to bed at night. And then, while you're sleeping, it fights the bacteria and oil that leads to morning pimples.

I haven't had a nasty morning surprise since I started using it. And this is another great product that you could really just buy on its own to use with your other regimen.

The Moisture Complex

If you're going to use the Exposed skin care line, you really need the Moisture Complex. When used together, the products in this line do dry your skin out. It's kind of a drawback. But honestly, I haven't used a product that doesn't dry you skin out at least a little bit.

If you feel dry and tight or you feel like your skin might flake, just put on the moisture complex. It won't make your skin oily and it will prevent the irritation that could lead to redness and breakouts. And if you use it regularly, it really helps to permanently balance out the moisture level in your skin.

The Clarifying Mask

This is sort of the emergency treatment contingency plan in the Exposed skin care line. You put it on when there's a flare up. It's pretty heavy duty stuff. Also, it doesn't smell great. But if you feel a breakout coming on or you need to battle existing pimples, it's a great treatment.

The Probiotic Complex

The best acne fighting systems that I've tried all have some sort of supplement that helps balance your skin from the inside out. I'm not 100% sure what the probiotic complex does but my acne is finally gone so I'm not going to stop taking it anytime soon.

Review Summary

What I like about the Exposed skin care system is that I feel like they care about the quality of my skin, not just burning or drying the acne away and leaving me with irritated itchy skin.

Bottom line? The Exposed is well worth it. This is a great product.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Here's How Medical Spas Can Help You Lose Weight

The snow has melted, and the sun and heat are here! That means it's time to shed the winter weight and start looking amazing before you hit the beach - and luckily, medical spas offer numerous options to help you trim some weight in the nick of time.

These treatments include body shaping, zerona lasers, or individual medical guidance on diets that fit your lifestyle and weight loss goals. Indeed, if you just want to shave a few pounds for the summer, or if you're looking to start a journey to a healthier life, medical spas have something to offer you. This article will explore some of the most popular non-invasive weight loss options to help you make the right choice.

New Body Shaping Innovations: A Quick Way to Shape Up

TruSculpt Body Shaping is an incredible new technique that you'll find at top-notch medical spas in major cities. This non-invasive procedure targets cellulite in and around your thigh, buttocks and stomach. It's ideal for addressing specific areas, and uses radio frequency pulses to break down and remove fat cells, as well as shift cellulite to reshape desired areas.

Just as importantly, TruSculpt Body Shaping is safe, largely painless, can be performed on-site at reputable medical spas, and requires no anesthesia. It's also incredibly quick, which means that can have it done during your lunch break and then head back to work! It's a great way to shape up quickly, without rearranging your life. Results generally appear within 1 to 3 months, so get started early!

The Zerona Laser Treatment For Fast Results

With results visible in just a matter of weeks, the Zerona Laser has become one of the most popular non-invasive weight loss methods available at medical spas. It uses specially calibrated light energy to safely penetrate outer layers of skin and target cells with excess fat. The fat is then emulsified, and leaves the cell to be reabsorbed by the body. This allows you to target fat cells in a specific area, leading to body shaping effects -- in addition, of course, to shaving inches off where it counts. Typically, you can expect a treatment every 2 days, for a total of about 9-12 treatments. If you're in a hurry to slim down for summer, then definitely consider this treatment, which is available at top medical spas.

A Healthy Lifestyle is the Best Way to Stay Lean

Treatments like TruSculpt Body Shaping and the Zerona Laser are great ways to slim down and look great, but you also need to lead a healthy lifestyle in order to maintain the results. Fortunately, top medical spas can get you started on the road to feeling and looking great via personalized weight loss strategies. These are a great to compliment your treatment, to make sure that old eating habits don't creep up.

Plus, leading medical spas across Canada offer comprehensive services for patients, which include a full medical checkup by a doctor trained in Bariatric medicine. This includes going over your specific needs, taking into account your health history, medical conditions, dietary restrictions, and so on. From there, you'll receive a personalized action plan that includes medical treatment options, lifestyle suggestions, and personalized diet plans to help you achieve your goal.

Monday, April 8, 2013

Facts About Acne in Skin of Color

It's finally time to discover some facts about acne and it's affects on skin of color. With all the misunderstandings about acne as a whole, it is important to understand how and why we get acne pimples in order to more effectively address this very common skin condition.

Contrary to popular belief, most acne causes are not the result of eating chocolate, fried foods or anything like that, so relax. However, more so than not, the acne break outs can also have a lot to do with and may be the result of an internal culprit called hormone imbalance. This can be the result of a congested liver.

No one's immune to this condition. Men, as well as women can experience hormone imbalance. If the liver functioned to it's full potential, hormone levels would become more balanced and acne break outs would be less of a problem. This will be discussed later in an upcoming article.

Now externally in many skin types, including skin of color, the most common causes of acne are:

  • Excessively oily skin
  • Skin inflammation and irritation
  • Bacteria
  • Dead skin cell build up

Facts about acne: An overview of the causes

1. Excessive oiliness

The sebaceous gland within the skin produces a natural material called sebum (oil). Sebum is what provides our skin and hair natural and necessary moisture. This is a good thing. However, too much oil is what you don't want.

When the oil gets trapped inside the pore due to inadequate shedding of dead skin cells, the sebum or oil then fills the pore and mixes together with the dead skin cells. This causes bacterial infection and inflammation, resulting in acne bumps.

2. Skin inflammation and irritation

We have a tendency to over stimulate and irritate our skin by using harsh skin care products. This activity can contribute to break outs which are only one (although very common) of many acne causes.

Also, we sometimes over cleanse our faces in an effort to rid our complexions of oily shine, and dirt. You may not believe it, but dirt is not the culprit either. However, it doesn't hurt to maintain a clean pallet.

More than likely, many of us with acne break outs have clean skin because we over cleanse thinking this is going help. In actuality, this doesn't. Over cleansing or harsh scrubbing only makes matters worse by causing unnecessary skin irritation which usually results in acne break outs.

This is your skin's natural response to inflammation and irritation. This can be a common acne cause. Skin of color is highly reactive (negatively responsive) to irritation. Unfortunately in darker skin types, acne often leads to dark spots, because it imposes irritation to our skin. This is due to the hypersensitive nature of our skin.

This is the same thing that occurs when your skin becomes injured, or inflamed and responds to this irritation by producing more increased levels of melanin to cause dark spots and other skin discoloration. Only this time, your skin is breaking out in acne bumps as a result.

Remember, all irritation is not painful. Even if you don't feel your skin is irritated, it may very well be. In this case, instead of signaling you of it's irritation through pain, it's signaling you of it's irritation by forming acne bumps on your skin's surface.

3. Bacteria

Bacteria is formed when the pores get filled with oil and is not able to be released, due to the presence of dead skin cells that haven't been shed from the skin's surface. Dead skin cells block the pores so that the oil cannot escape.

The oil then builds up within the pores, mixing with skin cells, causing the formation of bacteria. The skin becomes inflammed and soon after, acne break outs begin.

4. Dead skin cell build up

Another external cause of acne break outs, are the blockage of skin pores by the build-up of dead skin cells. Your skin's cell turnover occurs approximately every 28 days (give or take a day or two).

What this process does is help your skin to do it's job of bringing fresh, new, healthy skin cells to the surface. Also, when dead skin cells are removed from the skin's surface, sebum or oil build up is minimized, resulting in less acne break outs.

But first, you must exfoliate your skin for this to occur. To exfoliate, means you're starting down the path toward clear, acne-free skin. Exfoliation or removal of dead skin cells is the second most important skin care step after sun protection.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Easy Busy Mom's Playground Workout

Mom's live a hectic life. And most have made great sacrifices for their families including their own health and wellness. But moms want to look great, feel good, have energy and of course, keep up with the kids without feeling old and worn out. And it is those moms that find gym time, or a dedicated workout hour next to impossible. But what about a playground workout? Why can't mom get a workout while the kids do?

Recently a client expressed this very concern. With 5 kids, it was proving a big challenge to carve out that dedicated time for herself and do the workout program she had committed to performing. So we were looking for solutions and I love taking a problem, finding an answer and implementing it quickly for positive change. As we chatted, she mentioned that she takes the kids to the playground frequently during the week. Problem revealed, solution found!

The lights were on in the house... why not create a list of playground workout exercises she could do with the kids or while they played at any playground? So, I put my thinking cap on and came up with a list of some movements that I want to share with you today.

They are nothing extraordinary. Nothing profoundly unique or special. And there are many more to consider. But this list will get any busy mom started on the road to a healthy body. They are effective and fun. And when done consistently, just like keeping the kids active, they will transform you!

Hop Scotch

Run Skips Sprints

High Knees

Jog Sprints

Squats- Narrow Stance, or Sumo-Wide Stance

Bench Step Ups

Walking Lunges

Swing Pushups

Jack Squats

Hip Bridges

Sliders

Facing the base of a smooth-surfaced slide, place your hands on the sides of the slide (be careful of sharp metal edges on old-school models) and assume a pushup position. Walk your hands up the slide, with your feet following and without bending your knees, so you are shuffling up the slide (not climbing). Once you get to the top, reverse the movement. Repeat for 60 seconds. Make it harder by walking up the slide backwards so your upper body is now working harder against gravity.

Swing Mountain Climbers

Rope Waves

Take the list, mix and match, be inspired and create yourself some awesome, effective, fun, energetic playground workout activities that you can do alongside the kids.

You know my motto... NO EXCUSES, Just Do It! Kids included. Don't let your kids and your rightful dedication to them be your excuse o be overweight and out of shape. You don't have to be. They don't want you to be.

Take these playground workout activities and perform them in the local park or in your own backyard for that matter while the kids run around like spinning tops having the time of their lives. They laugh, you'll life. Everyone will get some sun and fresh air.

Come on busy moms! NO EXCUSES. Get out there with your playground workout plan and change your body and your life. And guess what you'll do in addition? You'll teach your kids a powerful lesson of personal responsibility for their health and well being! How can it get any better for you and the family than that?

Sunday, March 31, 2013

Buying The Best Elliptical For Home Use

Elliptical trainers are gaining in popularity these days. Elliptical training is favored due to the low impact workouts it offers. The machines mostly come with moving handlebars, meaning that you also get a total body workout as well. Getting an elliptical trainer for home use is more convenient than going to the gym. Well, getting your daily dose of exercise is certainly easier when the workout machine is right at home.

So what is considered the best elliptical for home use? There is a wide range of models available. Depending on your budget and your needs, finding the right one is not difficult.

A good recommendation is to go and try it out at the local gym or even the store. How does the machine feel? Is it sturdy, smooth and quiet? Some come with extra features such as power incline, adjustable pedals and more choices of preset programs. Some have heart rate chest strap while others have pulse grips. Chest straps are said to give a more accurate reading.

Even the flywheel comes in different weight. The heavier the flywheel, the more stable the machine. Of course, everything comes with a price. The more features the elliptical trainer has, the higher the price tag.

Always check to ensure that there is no risk of you getting hurt when exercising on the machine. An unstable and shaky elliptical trainer might cause you to get hurt. If you tend to be on the heavy side, a machine with too light a flywheel might not be suitable for you.

Always buy from a reliable manufacturer. They will give a good warranty because they believe in their machines and their solid construction. The cheaper ones normally have a shorter warranty period.

So what do you need? Are you the serious fitness enthusiast or just the occasional exerciser? For someone who exercises very regularly, getting a better quality machine is recommended. The below $500 types might not withstand such strenuous elliptical training and might break down more often. This can be stressful.

Elliptical training is a good and reliable way to get in shape and lose weight. Since the workouts are low impact in nature, the senior citizen groups can benefit from such type of low impact exercise without worrying about painful joints and knees. An elliptical trainer for home use will be very convenient to them as this saves them the trouble of venturing outdoors on their own. Some of them might need someone to send them to the gym or elsewhere to exercise.

Exercising regularly is the key to good health. When there is too much hassle involved or you end up getting injured too easily, you will lack the motivation to carry on. Investing in an elliptical trainer might just solve your many problems. When you see the results and benefits you are getting, added to these the convenience of working out at home; chances of you pedaling on is certainly high.

So, get the best elliptical for home use that you can afford and enjoy the good health that comes with it.