Say Om Not Ow: Injury-Free Yoga Tips

The main reason many of us practice yoga is to increase our flexibility, and the last thing you’d expect is to pull a muscle. Unfortunately yoga injuries can and do happen just as easily as they do in other types of workouts, so keep these tips in mind to prevent yourself from getting hurt. Spy before you try. Check out the class the week before you take it to make sure the level is right for your ability and needs. Drop the ego. Don’t compare yourself to Polly Pretzel or 17-year-old Sally over there. Everyone’s body is different, and you don’t want to attempt advanced poses if you’re not ready. Nobody’s watching you anyway, so who are you trying to impress? Don’t compare yourself to yourself either. Your body changes every day. Maybe last week you pressed all the way up into full backbend , but this week, your back may not be thinking that’s such a good idea. Concentrate on how your body feels at that moment. Move slowly and with complete awareness. Every time you move any part of your body, do it calmly and with intention. Be aware of where your body is and what it’s doing at all times. Learn to use and love props. Blocks , straps, bolsters, and even walls are great support tools to help you modify poses so you don’t strain your muscles. Want to see the other tips? Then read more Don’t push yourself too hard. Yoga is supposed to feel good. It should never hurt or cause strain, so don’t force your muscles to stretch to the point of agony, since this is a great way to pull a muscle. Listen to your body. Sometimes the order or types of poses an instructor is doing won’t fit with what your body needs. If your tight hips need to do Pigeon and the entire class is doing handstands , well, then do Pigeon. Also be sure to rest your body when you need to - child’s pose is a wonderful thing. Don’t slip. Heated rooms may help keep your muscles warm, but they can also make you sweat, making your mat really slick. Use a regular towel or a Yogitoes Skidless Yoga Mat to absorb any puddles. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re not sure how to get into a pose, don’t be afraid to ask the teacher. Sometimes the format of classes makes it feel awkward to talk or ask questions, so if that’s the case, just skip the pose and ask the teacher about it after class.

Originally posted here: 
Say Om Not Ow: Injury-Free Yoga Tips

Michael Jackson Putting Too Much Stress On His Body

Right after Michael Jackson passed away on June 25, 2009, many websites have written about his death. It is believed that he had cardiac arrest (heart fails to contract and therefore affecting circulation of blood). While many knew that Michael is preparing for “This Is It” (series of 50 concerts in London), not many knew that he has engaged a bodybuilder to prepare him for the concerts. Michael Jackson has actually engaged Lou Ferrigno as his personal trainer. The name of Lou Ferrigno may sound unfamiliar, but when you saw these below pictures, you will know who he is. Yes, Lou Ferrigno is the Hulk in The Incredible Hulk television series. Lou and Michael have actually known each other for long time. In fact, Lou first trained Michael about 15 years ago. Talking about training, contrary to belief, it was not the hardcore type of weight training with huge load, it was more about conditioning and toning. Michael did not want to lift weights because he worried that he would bulk up. He just wanted to increase his flexibility and stamina. Michael paid much attention to his legs and therefore he spend most time in “conditioning and toning” his legs for his dance moves. Also, he chose not to run on treadmill; he just walked as his workout. According to one of Lou’s interviews, Michael was in good health and great spirits, but his body was going through stress getting ready for the tour. Michael was seeing a voice teacher, then he went to train with Lou and later rushed to do rehearsing for at least 3 hours downtown. Some people said Michael Jackson’s talent was gifted and was luck to born with it.  The truth is that he worked his butt off.  What we saw on stage was years of long hours of his time spent in perfecting his dance.  Not many knew that he spent hours in studio practicing his songs. There was no discussion about medication nor other medical problems. Due to hectic schedule, he lost more weight. Jackson has actually been losing weight since early 1980s because of a change in diet and a desire for “a dancer’s body”. The 50-year old singer was 126 pounds (57 kilogram) at his height of 5′11 when he died. Rumor said that he ate only one meal a day. Here are some pictures of Michael Jackson during his very last rehearsal for the comeback tour. It is pity that Michael did not do any weight training, even under Lou, who himself is a professional bodybuilder (second place at 1974 Mr Olympia). I am not speculating by pumping iron, Michael would be able live longer. But, as we age, we still need muscle to help maintaining our body metabolism and we need muscles for day to day activities. So, looking at the high amount of on and off stage activities with only a meal a day, Michael was really putting a huge stress on his body. With the global focus on his come back, he probably has to go through huge mental pressure. No matter what other rumors talk about Michael Jackson, he still is one of the best entertainers on the stage. He was hardworking. He gave his best for his fans. Michael Jackson’s You Are Not Alone live from 1999 Korea concert: Rest in peace, our beloved King of Pop. No comment | © Exercise , 2007-2009. |Fitness|Fitness|Fitness

Read the original here: 
Michael Jackson Putting Too Much Stress On His Body

No Equipment Necessary: Lying T Dancer

You can increase the flexibility of your spine, abs, shoulders, and hip flexors, all in one move. I picked up this move, the lying T dancer, from American distance runner and Olympic bronze medalist Shalane Flanagan . Start slowly moving from side to side to really feel the stretch, then quicken your pace in order to get your heart rate up. If you’re curious to know how to do this move read more. Lie on your belly and extend your arms out in T position, so they are perpendicular with your body. Press the top of your left foot into the floor and lift your right leg up, bending your knee and reaching your toes toward your left hand. This takes a lot of flexibility in your spine and hip flexors, so don’t worry if your foot doesn’t come close to your hand. Then bring your right foot back to the starting position. Lift your left foot off the floor, bending your knee, and reaching your left toes to your right hand. Come back to the starting position. This completes one rep. Do three sets of 10 to 15 reps.

Originally posted here:
No Equipment Necessary: Lying T Dancer

5 Yoga Poses For a Strong Core

Yoga calms your mind and increases your flexibility, but it can also strengthen your core and tone your midsection - just in time for bikini season. Try these five yoga poses that target your abs and back muscles. View Slideshow ›

Read the original: 
5 Yoga Poses For a Strong Core