26 July, 2012

Summer Olympics London 2012


Are you as excited as me about tomorrow's opening of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London?  I just cannot contain my anticipation!

In case you're not already pumped up enough about the Games, here are some fun links to further fuel your appetite:







Where will you be watching the opening ceremony from?  I know I am wishing wishing more than ever that I could be in London right now, considering events haven't completely sold out and tickets are even being give away for free for tomorrow night!

20 July, 2012

Working out in heat & humidity


Is it hot and humid where you live?  Then this workout from POP Pilates is just what you need!  The best part is how Cassey talks you through the entire video with her funny commentary that distracts you from the burn.  Oh, and did I mention she's working out in Australia (one of the countries I've dreamed of visiting since I was little)?!


Here are 8 safety tips from Active.com for exercising in torrid temps:

1. The time of day is important. Unless you are training for an event that takes place in the daytime heat, avoid exercising from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It's the hottest part of day. Generally, the early morning is the best time to workout, especially if it's going to be scorcher that day.

2. Wear loose, light-colored. The lighter color will help reflect heat, and cotton material will help the evaporation of sweat. You may also want to try specially designed, "hi-tech" running shirts and shorts. They are often made from material meant to keep you cool.  

3. Sunscreen is a must. I use SPF 45 just to be safe. It's important to protect your skin. You can get burned and suffer sun damage to your skin even on cloudy days.

4. Stay hydrated. Before you go out, drink a glass or two of water. Carry a bottle of water or even a hydration pack such as the CamelBak. Take a drink every 15 minutes, even when you're not thirsty. When you're done with your workout, have a few more glasses of water.

5. Replenish your electrolyte and salt intake while exercising. I like to use SUCCEED capsules--small, simple packs of sodium and electrolytes that keep my system in check.

6. If you can, choose shaded trails or pathways that keep you out of the sun.

7. Check the weather forecast before you start your workout. If there's a heat advisory, meaning high ozone and air pollution, you might want to take your workout indoors. These pollutants can damage your lungs.

8. Most importantly, listen to your body. Stop immediately if you're feeling dizzy, faint or nauseous.

09 July, 2012

Focus on: Inner Thighs & Calves

Here is an overdose of amazing leg exercises, courtesy of Pop Pilates.  If your legs aren't on FIRE by the end, then you'd better just start the video again!



Love the burn!

03 July, 2012

Holiday workouts

Source: Flickr (user athletachi)

Do you ever work out on holidays?  When the weather is perfect outside, it's hard not to get out there and be active!

Here are some tips from FitSugar on creative exercise ideas for the 4th:

1. Start your day right: If you know you'll have a jam-packed schedule of eating, drinking, and lounging tomorrow, make crossing off your workout your top priority in the morning. Take advantage of the holiday and grab some friends to catch up with or wake up early to get in a morning run before the crowds. You'll feel great for the rest of the day knowing that you still accomplished your workout and started off your day of celebrating on the right foot. 

2. In the kitchen: Chopping, cooking, and prepping your barbecue fare can be a great workout for your arms, but for even more of a workout, add some lower-body moves to your cooking to burn even more calories. Do one of these basic lower-body exercises (like squats, lunges, and deadlifts) while you're waiting for the water to boil, and finish with these stretches you can do in your kitchen.

3. Schedule it: It's the Fourth, and you've got one thing on your mind — how to get to a beach, stat. Between tanning and gossiping, make sure you schedule in some time to enjoy the sand and surf while being active. A casual swim in the ocean or renting a kayak for an hour or two can break up your day and also make sure you're not sedentary for hours on end. Learn just how many calories you're burning when you do water sports here. 

4. Wind down: If you're feeling stuffed after your barbecue, gather your friends and family for a walk around the block or to catch the fireworks, or go on a bike ride before the sun sets. The light exercise will help you feel less bloated and can help you get a good night's sleep so you can wake up ready to continue your workweek.