Do You Need a Coach?

Filed under: Fitness Getty Images Who needs a coach ? Maybe you! Coaches aren’t just for Olympic hopefuls and elite high school athletes seeking scholarships; they’re also available to help everyone from competitive masters athletes to weekend warriors trying to outpace their cycling group and everyone in between. I recently joined a masters (read: adult, generally 30 and over) swim class at a gym near my home because, while I’ve always been a strong swimmer, I haven’t taken a lesson since I was in preschool and thought it would be fun to see what I could improve upon. As it turned out, I have plenty to work on, but in just a couple of months, I’ve seen an enormous difference. Am I going to be the next Dara Torres ? Probably not (OK, certainly not), but I definitely feel like I’ll have a real edge for my next triathlon. After seeing what a coach was able to do for me, I wanted to learn more about the benefits of hiring one, so I talked to Adam Duvendeck, two-time Olympian, track cycling specialist and co-founder of Momentum Coaching Group in Long Beach, Calif. He confirmed my suspicions that coaching groups can make a real difference for just about anybody. “I think anyone with any type of goal, or even if they’re having a hard time figuring out what to do in terms of creating goals, can really benefit from a coach,” Duvendeck said. “It’s for anyone who wants to excel in any way. It doesn’t mean they have to become an Olympian — there are so many different goals, like weight loss or just satisfaction at improving.” While Duvendeck sees a wide variety in his clientele, masters athletes in the 30- to 50-year-old range are the most common. “They take their hobby very seriously,” Duvendeck said. As well they should — there are still opportunities to compete at the regional, national and world levels as a masters athlete. His clients’ previous experience is also varied. “Either they did [this sport] when they were younger and have renewed their interest or didn’t pick [it] up until much later in life,” he said. “They just want to go until they know they’ve reached their physical peak.” How many of us can identify with that feeling? If you’re seeking a coach for your sport of choice, there are a number of things to consider while you shop around (and you should shop around, according to Duvendeck). First figure out exactly what you want out of a coach. Do you want to make your Olympic dreams come true or are you hoping to not come in last in your age group at the next local 5k? Both are great goals, but if you’re a beginner, you probably don’t need to pay for an Olympic-level coach, Duvendeck said. However, if you’re looking to train at an elite level, you probably want someone who has competed at that level and knows what it takes to get there. Certification and accreditation in your particular sport are also important. Similarly, your experience level will dictate exactly what kind of coaching you need. An experienced cyclist can benefit greatly from online coaching. Using specialized training programs, a coach in another state can provide a workout for the athlete, who can download it, record his data during the workout, and send that back to the coach in order to determine how to improve the workout and his skill level. In that case, proximity isn’t really important. However, a cycling newbie needs a coach she can go riding with once or twice a week until she gets her technique down and should seek out a local coach. Pricing depends on a variety of factors but generally has a lot to do with the level of communication and level of experience. Duvendeck said that the low end will generally be $180 to $200 per month, but you can pay more than $1,000 a month for elite-level training. Of course, this could be a bit different depending on your area — yet another reason to shop around. So what do you think? Do you need a coach? If your goals include getting better at your sport, the answer might just be yes. But if your goals are more focused on weight loss and generally becoming more athletic, perhaps a personal trainer is a better option for you. Permalink | Email this | Comments

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Do You Need a Coach?

Class Act: Power Pilates

In my experience, if the word “power” appears in the title of a fitness class, be it yoga or weight lifting, be prepared for a challenging workout. My expectations were in no way dashed when I tried Power Pilates at Sports Club LA recently. This was definitely a Pilates mat class on steroids. Classic moves like the 100s and single leg stretch definitely made an appearance, but only after many, many upper ab cruches. The class featured high repetitions, which is not common in traditional Pilates classes. The class began using a ballet barre for moves reminiscent of the Dailey and Bar methods, and then moved into a twisting lunge sequence away from the support of the bar. The instructor called this challenging exercise series, which worked the obliques and the glutes, part of her “muffin top project.” We used the old-school magic circle , a classic Pilates prop also known as a toning ring, for both arm work and leg work. Push-ups with a wide variety of hand positions peppered the class. And these weren’t careless and quick push-ups, but the slow, painful, methodical kind. I really enjoyed the class and appreciated the challenge. It’s nice to see Pilates concepts, like alignment and deep ab engagement, meld with more traditional moves from toning and sculpting classes. Two days post-class, my abs and glutes are still feeling the challenge. Have you tried a Power Pilates class? Share your opinion below. Photo courtesy of Pilates Unlimited

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Class Act: Power Pilates

Into Working Out? There’s a Group For That

It’s tough to stay motivated when it comes to exercising regularly. One thing I’ve found that never lets me down is having support from other like-minded folks, and the FitSugar Community is here for you. There are a wide variety of groups that focus on everything from Healthy Recipes to Dieting Support . But if fitness support is what you’re after, check out these groups: RunningSugar : This group is dedicated to all the runners out there. No matter your pace, this is your place to discuss gear, training techniques, and your love of running. Women That Rock (Climb) : A group set up for swapping climbing stories, sharing advice on training and techniques, and a place to fill each other in on your favorite places to climb. Sweet on Biking : A group for all you cyclists and spinning lovers out there. Learn about the latest gear, ways to improve your ride, and about rides happening around the world. Not into these groups? Head on over to the FitSugar Community. With so many groups to join , there’s bound to be one that suits your needs.

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Into Working Out? There’s a Group For That

A Big Waist Means Big Health Troubles

When it comes to measuring your overall health, a simple measuring tape proves to be a more important tool than the scale. While neck circumference is gaining popularity as a new way to gauge a person’s health and fitness level, a new study sponsored by the American Cancer Society again confirms waist size is the leading indicator for health risk beating out body mass index (BMI), the standard measurement for obesity. Excessive abdominal fat increases your risk for a wide variety of chronic and deadly health problems, including respiratory illness, heart disease, and cancer. The new study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine , found that folks with large waists have a greater risk of death than others with normal waist measurements - nearly double - even when those with a large waist circumference have a normal BMI. The upper end of healthy waist measurements is 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women. The study followed 100,000 subject for 10 years and found that even with a normal BMI , four extra inches around the waist increased the risk of dying from between 15 percent to 25 percent. American’s middles have been steadily growing, with the average waistline increasing around one inch every 10 years since the 1960s. Grab a measuring tape and check your health. Use our hip-to-waist ratio calculator to assess your risk level.

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A Big Waist Means Big Health Troubles

Soothing Stretches to Ease Digestion

With Thanksgiving coming up, I’m sure many of you are looking forward to chowing down on some delicious foods. Most of us end up eating way more than usual, and since many of the dishes may be richer or sweeter than you’re used to, it can cause some major discomfort in the tummy department. Here are some gentle stretches you can do to ease digestion. Don’t see your favorite yoga pose here? Then write about it in our Yoga Stretch and Tell group. I am sure all of our digestive systems could benefit from a wide variety of stretches. View Slideshow ›

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Soothing Stretches to Ease Digestion

The Benefits of Massage and Hydro Massage Treatment

After a hectic day at work all of us look forward to a break. And what a better way to relax than go for a luxury spa session! Right from a hydro massage shower to a soothing massage – you can enjoy all the luxuries at a spa resort hotel or if even within the confines of your own home. This is the perfect opportunity for you to indulge and enjoy the tranquil relaxation therapy provided. As you enjoy the luxuries of massage treatments – you can experience the ultimate in relaxation. It can be a perfect treat for you and a perfect gift for any of your loved ones. Given the stressed lifestyle that most of us undertake it is imperative that we take care of our health; for this massage is a great choice as it can usher in a wonderful sense of well-being. By indulging in a massage session you will not only feel relaxed but also will experience many health benefits alongside. These include:-   Nutrition to skin cells Stimulation to the lymphatic system and allows the body to detoxify. It helps certain conditions like arthritis, sciatica and muscle spasms. Soothes the nervous system Promotes relaxation, and reduces tension and anxiety. Improves blood circulation Life in today’s society is often full of stressful situations that have a direct effect on our physical and mental well being. The result is a burn out, often complete! Such a scenario calls for the need to relax and calm down! For this you need to head towards a luxury massage and spa session. A therapeutic massage with a trained therapist or from a hydro therapy unit can work wonders for your body and mind. In fact throughout history we have realised the importance of massage therapy and spa treatments. The treatments have been renowned for their well being properties to such an extent that you are able to choose from a wide variety of massaging experiences. These include such treatments as aromatherapy massage, hot stone and deep tissue massage and Swedish massage therapy and many more. A vast amount of treatments are usually found within spa retreats and spa hotels. However if you prefer to enjoy a body massage or hydro therapy treatment within the confines of your own home then you are able to invest in your very own steam shower. All the latest steam showers come ready equipped with body massage jets amongst many other health benefits all created within its own self enclosed unit.   Written by Graham Horsefall on behalf of Burnley Plumbing Supplies wholesale and retail distributors in steam showers , bathrooms, kitchens and designer radiators alongside plumbing and sanitarywares. Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/wellness-articles/the-benefits-of-massage-and-hydro-massage-treatment-1175189.html

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The Benefits of Massage and Hydro Massage Treatment

Weight Loss Surgery Effects For You

The operation on your stomach that is an inherent part of weight loss surgery demands certain lifestyle changes and also puts a strain on your health. It is better to resort to this measure only if serious efforts have yielded no result. This is not considered to be an easy option and may not suit all types of patients. Know what it entails when you are considering the option. What Does It Mean? Weight loss surgery involves the reduction of the size of the stomach organ by stapling or banding. A more extreme procedure is to cut a part of the stomach and reattach it to the small intestine, thereby reducing the absorption of food. Another operation that is done is the gastric bypass in which a bypass connects the stomach to the small intestine. The purpose of these operations is to reduce the amount of food that the stomach can hold and signal a feeling of satiety early, thereby reducing the amount of intake. What happens after? You will face a dramatic weight reduction after weight loss surgery and this is an assurance that you are on the right track regarding your weight. Rapid weight loss may result in the development of gallstones and this is something your doctor should inform you about with possible measures to counter it. You may have diarrhoea as the body quickly discards the consumed food without complete ingestion. Reduced food ingestion leads to vitamin and mineral deficiencies that need to be managed with very high doses of supplements. What To Do? Immediately after the surgery, you will be put on a limited diet consisting of mainly liquids with sugar and salt in limited amount. This will be followed with the introduction of a little solid food to see how your body takes it. Small helpings of fat, proteins and carbohydrates will be slowly enhanced as your body adapts to the reduced organ size. Weight loss surgery necessitates the strict banning of food items that have no nutritional value since the body’s ingestion capacity is drastically reduced. Excess food intake will lead to severe nausea and vomiting. When To Take Another Opinion? You should know to take another opinion if this is the first time you have considered doing something serious about your weight issue. Weight loss surgery is by no means the first choice available and should be entered into when the doctor has aided you to lose weight in other ways with little success. Another thing your doctor must do is to explain the effect of the surgery with the good and the bad news and explain the lifestyle effects that it will force on you. If you are hypertensive or diabetic, take another doctor’s views because of the added pressure the surgery will put on your system. Does your weight leave you in the category of obese or morbidly obese? Are you unable to carry out basic tasks on a daily basis? If your answers to these questions is no and your doctor is recommending surgery, ask another. If you are considering Weight Loss Surgery but want to know more about other Fast Weight Loss Product to lose weight before you take a decision, log on to http://www.fastweightlossplantips.com . Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/wellness-articles/weight-loss-surgery-effects-for-you-1176324.html

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Weight Loss Surgery Effects For You

Healthy Cooking Tip: Olive Oil Shelf Life

Being the cornerstone of the Mediterranean-style diet , olive oil tastes great and offers a wide variety of health benefits . But that bottle that has been in your pantry for two years - not so much. As olive oil ages, it loses its nutritional potency. Researchers found that when stored for over six months, the antioxidants in olive oil decrease by about 40 percent. If you don’t use much of the oil, buy smaller bottles to keep it antioxidant rich. Olive oil should be stored in a cool, dark space to help prevent oxidation, which not only compromises the taste of the oil but the nutritional benefits as well. How long have you had your bottle of olive oil?

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Healthy Cooking Tip: Olive Oil Shelf Life

Review: PowerBar Chocolate Gel

On long bike rides, when I pass the hour mark I need a little something to help to power up the next big hill and something I can quickly eat. There are a wide variety of sports gels out there, so I am in my experimental phase - trying them all out. Over the weekend, I placed a Chocolate PowerBar Gel in the back pocket of my biking jersey before I headed out the door. This particular flavor was labeled as having 1x caffeine and contained 25 milligrams caffeine, about one-third the amount found in a single shot of espresso . Since I was riding early in the morning, and hadn’t finished my daily cup of joe, I was looking forward to putting a little more caffeine in my system. Just before the third serious climb of the day, I powered down my PowerBar gel. To see how it tasted, and if it helped sustain my energy read more. First off, the flavor was surprisingly palatable. It didn’t taste metallic or yucky, more like brownie batter than sports gel. This might sound gross, but after 90 minutes of riding it was wonderful and really easy to eat. I think the bit of caffeine perked me up and improved my attitude so rather than being daunted by the hill ahead of me, I was ready to attack. The gel sustained me for at least an hour, and the carbs and electrolytes prevented me from bonking. Here’s the nutritional information: Serving size 41 grams (one packet) Calories 120 Fat 1.5 g Sodium 200 mg Carb 28 g Potassium 40 mg Sugar 10 g Chloride 70 mg Protein 0 g Ingredients: PowerBar C2 max carbohydrate blend (maltodextrin, fructose), filtered water, chocolate (contains milk), glycerin, PowerBar electrolyte blend (sodium chloride, sodium citrate, potassium chloride), phosphoric acid, natural flavor (contains soy lecithin), PowerBar booster blend (caffeine, ginseng, kola nut extract), sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate (to retard spoilage). contains milk and soy. Do you have a favorite sports gel? Share your flavor and brand in the comments section below.

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Review: PowerBar Chocolate Gel

Label Able: Palm Stearin

At the grocery store to pick up some soy nut butter for a batch of Soy Nut Butter Muddy Buddies I was planning on making, I saw a new kind made by Simple Food . Checking out the label I noticed an ingredient I’ve never heard of - organic palm stearin. If you’re curious to know whether it’s healthy or not read more. When palm oil is extracted from the fruit of the palm tree and then refined, it can be further refined into two forms - palm olein (liquid) and palm stearin (solid). This ingredient has a neutral taste, and contains a balance of polyunsaturated, monounsaturated, and saturated fatty acids. Palm stearin also contains linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid our bodies don’t produce, and tocopherols , which are natural antioxidants. This fat is cholesterol free, and may even lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Palm stearin shouldn’t be confused with palm kernel oil, which is made from the seeds of the palm fruit and is high in saturated (unhealthy) fats. Since palm stearin is solid at room temperature, it’s often used instead of butter in breads and cakes, and can be found in nonhydrogenated margarine. It’s also used to prevent nut butters from separating, as in this soy nut butter. Well that’s a relief. Now I can enjoy my Muddy Buddies even more!

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Label Able: Palm Stearin

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