http://www.fitsugar.com/ Healthy, happy you. en http://www.fitsugar.com/2637233 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2637233"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2637233',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2637233');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/01_2008/8924f4ced1365916_coffee.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left xlarger" height="373" width="250"></span>There's no denying my love for my daily, delicious, hot cup of coffee. While it's my habit to drink coffee in the morning and have green tea later in the day for a pick-me-up, others tend to get their caffeine fix right before a workout since <a href="http://exercise.about.com/od/healthinjuries/f/caffeine.htm" target="_blank">caffeine</a> can improve performance and increase endurance. Do you use caffeine to boost your energy before exercising? </p> <p><br clear=all> <span style='font-size:10px !important;'><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></span></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2637233" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Drink Caffeine Before You Exercise?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I usually drink something caffeinated before exercising.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Sometimes, but not every time I workout.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> It depends on what type of exercise I'm going to do.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> No, I usually don't have caffeine before exercising.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Something else. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2637233" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/2637233#comment caffeine coffee exercise Poll Tue, 30 Dec 2008 04:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/2637233 http://www.fitsugar.com/2562807 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/49_2008/730f2c8d0455149a_VS.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarger" height="375" width="300"></span>No pain, no gain? This old saying may be true even for the most genetically blessed among us — Victoria's Secret Angels. They may have great genes, but these lingerie models subscribe to the glue that binds goal-oriented women: hard work and discipline. Last night we saw the bombshell VS models rock the runway on television, and <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081202/ap_en_tv/victoria_s_secret_show" target="_blank">it took more than a few workouts</a> for them to look so toned.</p> <p>Doutzen Kroes recently became an Angel and acknowledged that, while she usually eats what she likes, before a big show she nixes sugar and carbs and dedicates more time to jumping rope. She said, "For other fashion shows you can be skinny, but for Victoria's Secret, you need definition." Another newbie to the Angel crew, Marisa Miller, also understands the VS message and said, "When you're on the runway, you're moving so it's all about toning up." Mission accomplished. </p> <p>It's encouraging to know that, while these gorgeous models have a genetic edge, they are still human and have to put in extra work to achieve their goals. Next time you're struggling through an intense workout, remind yourself that you're not alone. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/2562807#comment Diet exercise model reality check Victoria's Secret Thu, 04 Dec 2008 04:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/2562807 http://www.fitsugar.com/2427359 <p>Wondering how <a href="http://buzzsugar.com/tags/zack+and+miri+make+a+porno" >Zack and Miri Make a Porno</a> star Seth Rogen suddenly got slim? The actor says it's "the lamest answer ever," but I think it's actually the best answer. On Friday, during an radio interview on KIIS-FM, Rogen <a href="http://www.kiisfm.com/cc-common/podcast/single_podcast.html?podcast=onair.xml" target="_blank">told host Ryan Seacrest</a>: "I exercised and I dieted." What a novel idea, right? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/44_2008/bf06e7ff976857c1_SethRogenSlimdown.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="499" width="550"></span></p> <p>At a time when everyone is dying to hear celebs' slimdown secrets, it's refreshing to hear this down-to-earth actor admit that he did it the old-fashioned way. There is no <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1796461" >miracle pill</a>, but the closest thing we have to a surefire weight-loss strategy is exercising more and eating less. To see how Rogen's girlfriend feels about his new look, </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/2427359">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/2427359#comment Celebrity Diets exercise Fitness reality check Seth Rogen Weight Loss Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:30:03 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/2427359 http://www.fitsugar.com/2418854 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-2418854"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2418854',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2418854');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/43_2008/55b5e20ee81deaa8_worried-woman.larger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image larger" height="240" width="240"></span>We are all similar in that most of us have health on the brain, but we differ in our reasons for striving to be healthy. A lot of us are concerned about our weight, but for many of us, getting healthy is far more deep-rooted. For example, someone who has a history of cancer in the family may be more concerned about preventing it, while others are living with diseases themselves. I'm curious: What's your main health concern?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2418854" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>What Is Your Number One Health Concern?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Weight control</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Heart disease </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Mental health</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Cancer</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Autoimmune disease (diabetes, thyroid disease, etc.)</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="5" class="form-radio" /> Long life</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="6" class="form-radio" /> Other — share your concern below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2418854" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/2418854#comment exercise Health Health Concern Poll Mon, 27 Oct 2008 06:00:51 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/2418854 http://www.fitsugar.com/1915381 <p>For so many of us, the idea of working out corresponds with going to the gym. <a href="http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/easy-ways-to-add-exercise-to-your-day.htm" target="_blank">The Harvard Health Letter</a> wants us to put an end to that way of thinking and try adding a few simple ways get your heart pumping without stepping foot on a treadmill. Some of the suggestions are things that a lot of us already do — hopefully — but there are also a few new ideas I'd love to add to my day. <a href="http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/easy-ways-to-add-exercise-to-your-day.htm" target="_blank">They are</a>:<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/36_2008/stk102951cor_0.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="275" width="275"></span> <ol> <li>Take the faraway spot. Walking from the farthest corner of the parking lot will burn a few calories. If it's a parking garage, head for the roof and use the stairs.</li> <li>Get into the swing of it. Swinging your arms when you walk will help you reach the brisk pace of 3 to 4 miles per hour that is the most healthful.</li> <li>Be part of the fun. Adults shouldn't miss a chance to jump into the fray if kids are playing on a playground or splashing around in the water. Playing along will strengthen muscles and bones and set a good example.</li> </ol> <p>There are many more great, easy ideas so </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1915381">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1915381#comment exercise sneak in fitness Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1915381 http://www.fitsugar.com/1891518 <p>A few weeks ago I asked you guys to tell me what <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1859569" >your favorite ways to exercise</a> are, and you all gave me some great responses — I'm even motivated to do a little more dancing and dust off the old Rollerblades.<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/35_2008/top-acts.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="300" width="550"></span><br /> After tallying up all the votes, I've narrowed down the most popular activities. So for the most desirable ways to exercise, just </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1891518">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1891518#comment beat boredom exercise variety in your workout Tue, 26 Aug 2008 02:50:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1891518 http://www.fitsugar.com/1809592 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1809592"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1809592',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1809592');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/31_2008/sweat.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="327" width="300"></span>When I exercise, I expect to sweat. It's all part of the reason I love to move. Sweating makes me feel like I've worked hard and am cleansing myself. My workouts are tough, so I usually end up sweating a lot, especially if the temperature is hot. Afterwards, my clothes are usually pretty saturated. I've seen people though who can ring out their shirts from all their sweat, and I've seen people whose skin is barely glistening. So where do you fall when it comes to exercise and sweat? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1809592" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>During Exercise, Are You Drenched in Sweat? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> I'm always soaking wet with sweat, no matter what.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> It depends on the kind of exercise I'm doing.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> I hardly sweat, even when I run outside in the Summer.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I don't exercise.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1809592" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/1809592#comment exercise Fitness perspiration Poll sweat Fri, 01 Aug 2008 04:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1809592 http://www.fitsugar.com/1822893 <p>When it comes to dieting, <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1591035" >exercise really is the magic pill</a>. Calorie restriction and exercise have long been known as the dieting duo necessary for success. Unfortunately the necessary amount of time spent exercising is often grossly underestimated. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/31_2008/stk101832cor.larger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="240" width="240"></span>New research from the <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7530345.stm" target="_blank">University of Pittsburgh</a> found that 55 minutes of moderate exercise, 5 days a week was needed to not only lose weight, but more importantly to maintain weight. The four year study, involving 200 women, emphasizing the calorie restriction alone is not enough. Moderate exercise is necessary for getting the weight off and keeping it off, which often proves more difficult than losing the weight in the first place. </p> <p>Just a reminder: moderate exercise is considered any activity that makes you "slightly breathless," and should be at least 50 percent of your maximum heart rate (220 minus your age). A higher heart rate will burn more calories, so if you're exercising as part of your weight loss plan, feel free to work out in a higher heart rate zone. This <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/calculator" > heart rate calculator</a> will help guide you. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> </p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1822893#comment Diet Tip exercise Weight Loss Thu, 31 Jul 2008 03:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1822893 http://www.fitsugar.com/1814474 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/30_2008/200294800-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" width="275"></span>If finding the time to head to the gym is stressing you out then this <a href="http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/how-much-exercise-do-you-really-need" target="_blank">roundup</a> of studies from <a href="http://www.webmd.com/" target="_blank">WebMD</a> will please you. See, the thing is, it's not always quantity that matters, but the qualitity. And in the case of exercise the old adage is true, "something is better than nothing." Here are <a href="http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/how-much-exercise-do-you-really-need" target="_blank">highlights</a>:</p> <ul> <li>A study published by the <b>American Journal of Sports Medicine</b> in 2006 showed that short walks after dinner were more effective than long exercise sessions in reducing the amount of fat and triglyceride levels in the bloodstream after a hearty meal.</li> <li style="width:550px;">Research published in the <b>Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health</b> showed that short bouts of exercise helped lower blood pressure as well as shave inches off the hips and waistline.</li> </ul> <p>There's more so </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1814474">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1814474#comment 30 minutes duration exercise quit smoking Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1814474 http://www.fitsugar.com/1807226 <p>Recently a fellow Sugar user posed the question about what to do with her keys when running outside and you came through with some fabulous suggestions. In fact, there were so many that I wanted to make sure you all saw some of the good ones. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/30_2008/112_photo1_large_1192810855.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" width="250"></span> <ul> <li>User <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/lydialee_home " >lydialee_home</a> suggests,"I always carry a bottle with me when I run outdoors. <a href="http://www.ultimatedirection.com/product.php?page=handhelds" target="_blank">Ultimate Direction has a bottle holder</a> (pictured here) that comes with a zip pocket. I just put the key in there."</li> <li>User <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/NurseDeAnna" >NurseDeAnna</a> suggests, "I take it off the keychain and thread my shoe lace through the key before tying them. It's tied in, then to keep it from flopping, I tuck it into the criss-cross part of my shoelaces above the tongue of my shoe."</li> <li>User <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/bettywhite" >bettywhite</a> suggests, "In the sports bra. easy, cheap."</li> <li>User <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/StefanieO" >StefanieO</a> suggests, "I loop mine through a hair band and then loop the band over my functional ponytail band. I never worry about them!"</li> <li>User <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/lovelystate " >lovelystate </a> suggests, "I usually stuff my house key in my ipod holder. It's really secure and I never have to worry about it falling out."</li> <li>User <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/cmd0610 " >cmd0610</a> suggests, "Most running shorts like the simple <a href="http://www.nike.com/index.jhtml?sitesrc=USLP#l=nikestore,grid,_grid,s-running%20shorts&amp;re=US&amp;co=US&amp;la=EN" target="_blank">Nike</a> $28 ones that come in a million different colors have a little pocket that's sewn into the liner just under the waist band that is big enough for a car key (and/or one of those tiny Tampax tampons that's compact), so that's what I do . ."</li> </ul> <p>Caveat: You all had great suggestions and you all suggested a lot of the same things and I just couldn't pick them all, but you can check them all out <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1772069" >here</a>.</p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1807226#comment exercise keys whats your advice for follow-up Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1807226 http://www.fitsugar.com/1737075 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1737075"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1737075',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1737075');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/30_2008/run.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="437" width="300"></span>I try to work out regularly, but with work, my family, and my generally busy schedule, I'm lucky to work out four times a week. Very rarely do I get the chance to work out more than once a day. Before my life became so crazy hectic, some days I would run in the morning and take a yoga class in the evening. Those days are gone for me, but what about you. . .</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1737075" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Ever Exercise More Than Once a Day? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I love to exercise more than once a day.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Occasionally I do.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Never, once is enough.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I don't exercise.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1737075" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/1737075#comment exercise Fitness Poll Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1737075 http://www.fitsugar.com/1772069 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/28_2008/skd182349sdc.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" width="275"></span>I recently got a question from one reader that I thought you guys would have some great suggestions for. Here's her question: </p> <p>"Hey Fit. I've been trying to run outside a lot more these days but I never know what to do with my car keys (I drive to the park where I run). I don't feel comfortable leaving my door unlocked while I'm gone but holding the keys gets annoying. Any ideas would be much appreciated."</p> <p>I use a small <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/216918" >running wallet</a> that attaches to my sneakers — it's inexpensive and doesn't bother me on my jogs. However, I am sure you guys have your own innovative ideas for stashing keys and IDs while running so help a user out and share them below.</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1772069#comment exercise keys Whats Your Advice For Mon, 14 Jul 2008 13:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1772069 http://www.fitsugar.com/1734866 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/27_2008/rock.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="442" width="300"></span>When it comes to exercising, I have a few go-to activities that I always end up doing. I mix it up between <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/tags/Running" >running</a>, biking, <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/tags/swimming" >swimming</a>, as well as outdoorsy activities hiking and kayaking. I love <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/tags/yoga" >yoga</a>, <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/tags/pilates" >Pilates</a>, and weightlifting. I tried branching out and experimented with rock climbing, windsurfing, and horseback riding, but they were either too expensive or not for me. What about you? Are there certain types of exercise that you dabbled with that didn't stick?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a><br /> <br><br /> <br><br /> <br><br /> <br></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1734866#comment exercise Fitness Speak Up Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:35:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1734866 http://www.fitsugar.com/1704882 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/24_2008/dv154017a.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="495" width="300"></span>Thank goodness it's Friday! Why? Because in my opinion, Friday is a great day to head to the gym. Lately, I've become a big fan of hitting the cardio and weight machines after work at the end of every week, when the gym is virtually empty. The locker room isn't crowded, I never have to wait for a machine, and everything is nice and peaceful. I find that it's a perfect way to unwind after a long work week.</p> <p>Of course, I also like going out on Fridays, but generally I find that no one wants to meet for dinner or drinks until after I'd be done working out anyway. So I use that downtime to squeeze in one last workout in a wonderfully unhectic gym.</p> <p>Do you work out on Fridays? Do you like the gym at this time, or do you find it depressing?</p> <p><a href="http://gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> </p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1704882#comment exercise Fit Tip friday workout Gym hit the gym on fridays Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1704882 http://www.fitsugar.com/1696506 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/21_2008/small-doc.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="332" width="250"></span><a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/drsugar" >DrSugar</a> is in the house and answering your questions. </p> <p>Dear DrSugar,<br /> I had an emergency appendectomy last Wednesday, and I'm wondering if you could give some tips for a post-surgery exercise routine. As an avid runner, kayaker, and rollerblader, it's driving me a little crazy that I can only really shuffle around. I think other post-surgery members of the Sugar community would also like to hear your suggestions. Thanks!<br /> Thanks,<br /> <i>Ready to Work Out</i></p> <p>To see what DrSugar has to say about this, just </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1696506">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1696506#comment DrSugar exercise exercise after surgery Health post-op exercise Strength Training Stretching Tue, 10 Jun 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DrSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1696506 http://www.fitsugar.com/1624696 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/21_2008/woman.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="448" width="300"></span>I grew up being physically active. I danced, played sports, and rode my bike everywhere. My interest in exercise and my intensity have waxed and waned over the years, but I always did something.</p> <p>I have settled down into a reliable relationship with working out. I need to be consistent or I will go a little crazy, and if I skip a run, I do feel like I am <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1576131" >cheating on running</a>. So I was wondering, at what age did you get into working out, or do you feel like it is something you have always done? Did someone inspire you to do it because of health reasons? Did you do it to lose weight or tone up? Or were you interested in a sport or activity? Tell me in the comment section below.</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1624696#comment age exercise Fitness Speak Up Thu, 22 May 2008 14:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1624696 http://www.fitsugar.com/1628444 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/20_2008/stk124067rke.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" width="275"></span>We all know that exercise helps protect grown women against breast cancer, but according to <b>CNN</b>, new <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/conditions/05/13/breast.cancer.teens.ap/index.html?eref=rss_health" target="_blank">research</a> has found that exercise during the teen years – starting as young as age 12 – can help protect girls from breast cancer when they are grown.</p> <p>The best results, they say, are when the girl does regular exercise from ages 12 to 22 because it lowers her estrogen levels overall. What's more? Exercising early can also help reduce a girl's risk of obesity and increase her self esteem. If you're already over 22 and have been sedentary most of your life, don't worry: Starting exercise at any point helps your overall health significantly.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1628444#comment Breast Cancer Childhood Obesity exercise Wed, 14 May 2008 10:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1628444 http://www.fitsugar.com/1626518 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/27/276592/20_2008/dv1923022.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" width="200"></span>It's a vicious cycle. You don't sleep well because you don't exercise and then you don't exercise because you don't sleep well. </p> <p>Recent <a href="http://www.acsm.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=ACSM_News_Releases&amp;CONTENTID=9806&amp;TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm" target="_blank">research </a> has found that sleep deprivation is a key player in inactivity as feeling sluggish or lacking energy during waking hours isn’t very conducive to exercise motivation and can cause excessive inactivity. Get enough sleep by prioritizing your day and trying to get to bed a little bit earlier so that you're rested and ready to get up and move. Once you put an end to one vicious cycle, you'll start to see a new happier cycle emerge: you're sleeping well because you're exercising and you're exercising more because you're sleeping well.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1626518#comment exercise Health sleep Wed, 14 May 2008 05:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1626518 http://www.fitsugar.com/1615427 <p>I know that exercising in the early a.m. before you head to work can be a real challenge. If you aren't a <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/713509" >morning person</a>, missing out on sleep can seem very unappealing, but here are some reasons you may want to <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/662615" >set your alarm</a> for an early morning workout.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/19_2008/morn.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="300" width="300"></span> <ol> <li>It's usually a peaceful, quiet time of day, so it can be a great opportunity to think and get some time alone.</li> <li>Exercising in the morning can help wake up your brain, clear your mind, and help you organize your thoughts or your mental to-do list for the day.</li> <li>If you get it done first thing, then you won't have to worry about trying to squeeze it in to your busy schedule, especially if you have kids. Plus, studies have shown <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1535851" >morning exercisers are more consistent</a>. </li> <li style="width:550px;">Exercising helps get things moving, digestively speaking, so working out early can prevent <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/822343" >getting backed up</a> later on in the day.</li> <li>Since <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1110074" >working out on an empty stomach can cause you to lose muscle</a>, morning workouts will encourage you to eat breakfast, which has been proven to <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1565703" >boost your metabolism</a>, which helps to burn calories.</li> </ol> <p>Tell me, how do you feel about exercising in the morning?</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1615427#comment 5 Things exercise Fitness Morning Workout Mon, 12 May 2008 05:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1615427 http://www.fitsugar.com/1138730 <p>Spring is in the air and unfortunately so is pollen. The warm weather inspires me to exercise outside, but it can also inspire an allergy attack. If you have seasonal allergies check out these tips when it comes to exercise.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/14_2008/bike.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="315" width="300"></span> <ul> <li>If you've got seasonal allergies, be aware of the pollen count outside. Usually, pollen counts are highest on warm, dry, and breezy mornings and lowest on rainy, cooler days. If it's high, try exercising indoors. Avoid inhaling that irritating pollen as much as you can.</li> <li>Use a <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/219308" >neti pot</a> before and after exercising to get rid of dust, pollen, and mucus from your nose. </li> <li>Take your allergy medicine as directed. You may even benefit from using eye drops that contain antihistamine.</li> <li>If your allergies have made you completely congested, do some heat-building exercise like running or Ashtanga yoga. Getting hot will help thin out the mucus making it easier to get rid of.</li> <li>Pay close attention to your symptoms. If you feel them getting worse while exercising, slow down your pace, or stop altogether if you need to. </li> </ul> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1138730#comment 5 Things Allergies exercise Mon, 07 Apr 2008 08:45:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1138730 http://www.fitsugar.com/1517187 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/32_2007/chewing.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="200" width="300"></span>We read it time and time again, but one of the simplest rules of weight loss is often ignored: To lose weight, you need to expend more calories than you take in. There are plenty of dieting strategies to help you do this, from keeping <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/912544" >a food diary</a> to <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/994622" >cycling calories</a>. But the magical, yet simple, formula remains the same.</p> <p>In a <a href="http://health.yahoo.com/experts/rockertraining/9571/keep-it-simple-keep-it-off/" target="_blank">recent column on Yahoo Health</a>, personal trainer Debbie Rocker elaborates on this quintessential weight loss equation with some common-sense reminders, which I can certainly use from time to time! To see Rocker's advice, </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1517187">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1517187#comment calorie intake Calories Diet Tip Dieting exercise Weight Loss weight loss formula Wed, 02 Apr 2008 14:45:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1517187 http://www.fitsugar.com/750319 <p>I bet you can think of many <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/tags/another+reason+to+exercise" >reasons why you should exercise</a>, but some days, well, you just don't feel like it. Nobody is in the mood to work out every time they're supposed to, because it's hard work. It requires effort to gather up your gear and head to the gym. If you're not feeling very <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/735220" >motivated</a>, it's easy to be lazy on the couch and skip out on the workout.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/13_2008/woman.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="451" width="300"></span>So on days when you're not 100 percent into exercise, just go anyway. Nine times out of 10, you'll be happy and proud that you gave yourself the push. I'm not saying you need to do an intense 45-minute sprint and an hour of strength training. Be a little flexible and choose workouts that are easier on days that you have less energy. Go for a walk instead of a run. Go to a relaxing yoga class instead of cardio kickboxing. Or just do your normal workout but shorten it.</p> <p>Most of the time, the biggest challenge is making the decision to work out. So don't even give yourself the opportunity to talk yourself out of it. Just go, get it done, and afterwards, you know you'll be happy you did.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/750319#comment exercise Fit Tip Fitness motivation Workout Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/750319 http://www.fitsugar.com/1107720 <p>When I first started exercising I initially noticed all the extra energy I had throughout the day. As a few weeks went by, I had gained a new confidence that I never felt. After a few months went by, I noticed muscles and tightness in my body. I also have not gotten sick as often — knock on wood. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/11_2008/200265993-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" width="275"></span>My point is that it's amazing what a little exercise can enable us all to feel, so I am curious what positive changes have occurred in your own life since you've been working out. Let's inspire each other by sharing the positive influence exercise has had on us so that we can keep motivated. And hopefully your comments will motivate anyone who has yet to start to see the positive side, not just the sweaty, smelly, sore side. So speak up and let us know what changes you have noticed about yourself that came with exercising.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1107720#comment exercise healthy changes Speak Up Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1107720 http://www.fitsugar.com/1098700 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1098700"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1098700',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1098700');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/10_2008/beach.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="448" width="300"></span>During the Winter months, many people get away from the cold weather and hit the beach and sunshine. Taking a <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/113374" rel="nofollow">Winter vacation</a> is beneficial for your mental state and a great way to relieve stress. It's a time when you can do what you want to do, whether it be something adventurous like <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/123192" rel="nofollow">surfing</a> or just reading a book by the pool. Working out may or may not be part of the equation, so I was wondering . . .</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1098700" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Exercise While on Vacation?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> No way, I'm on vacation!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I try to do a little.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I like to keep up my regular exercise routine.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Can't tell you since I haven't been on a vacation in a long time.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> None of the above and I'll tell you why in the comments section below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1098700" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/1098700#comment exercise Poll vacation Fri, 07 Mar 2008 03:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1098700 http://www.fitsugar.com/1073860 <p>Let's face it, you can feel the gravitational pull on the backside increases with age, and this part of aging can cause some serious fretting. You are not alone in trying to conjure up new and exciting ways to tone your bum, and the answer might be as simple as tweaking your cardio machine technique. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/09_2008/booty.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="211" width="300"></span><a href="http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/butt-blasting-cardio" target="_blank">Researchers in the heartland</a> of American have studied the relationship between cardio machines and the <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/60403" >gluteus maximus</a>, the major muscle of your booty. They found that jogging on the treadmill activated the glute muscles most. This is, however, if your heels and not the balls of your feet hit the treadmill first. The second most effective cardio machine for toning your bum is the elliptical. To ensure you are working your glutes, make sure to drive the steps with your heel to fire up the backside of your legs and butt. Somewhat predictably, the recumbent bike has the least impact on your derrière. </p> <p>Don't forget to add a little strength training to your routine too! Here are five <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1044238" >strength training exercises that target the booty</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1073860#comment cardio machines exercise glute work Wed, 27 Feb 2008 04:00:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1073860 http://www.fitsugar.com/1072716 <p>On the red carpet yesterday, Oscar veteran <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/246906" >Hilary Swank</a> mentioned she was keeping fit with <a href="http://www.kravmaga.com" target="_blank">Krav Maga</a>. The name sounds a little like a spell from the <a href="http://buzzsugar.com/tags/harry+potter" >Harry Potter</a> series, but the health and fitness nut seems to be expanding her workout repertoire.<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/09_2008/Swank.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="369" width="550"></span><br /> Krav Maga is a form of self-defense used by the Israeli army, and "Krav Maga" translates literally from Hebrew to mean "contact combat." Let me tell you, it sounds intense, both mentally and physically. Krav Maga is <a href="http://www.krav-maga.com/definition.html" target="_blank">described</a> as a "practical and tactical system, which teaches how to prevent, deal, and overcome all kinds of violence and attacks." The classes seem extremely physical and are <a href="http://www.kravmaga.com/schoollocations.asp" target="_blank">designed</a> to create fatigue using stress drills that help students learn and react under adverse conditions. Sounds really fierce to me. </p> <p>To see what Hilary has to say about it, just </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1072716">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1072716#comment 2008 Oscars Celebrity exercise hilary swank israeli self defense krav maga Mon, 25 Feb 2008 13:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1072716 http://www.fitsugar.com/1072637 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1072637"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1072637',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1072637');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/09_2008/crunch.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="266" width="250"></span>When it comes to working out we all play favorites and have certain exercises we love doing. WebMD recently listed the <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1014350" rel="nofollow">the seven most effective exercises</a>. It is a great and informative list.</p> <p>Now, what I want to know is . . . </p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1072637" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Which of the Most Effective Exercises Is Your Favorite?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Walking</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Interval training</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Squats</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Lunges</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Push-ups</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="5" class="form-radio" /> Abdominal crunches</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="6" class="form-radio" /> Bent-over row</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="7" class="form-radio" /> None of the above! </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1072637" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/1072637#comment exercise most effective exercises Poll Mon, 25 Feb 2008 12:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1072637 http://www.fitsugar.com/1046088 <p>So you've taken a little hiatus from your fitness routine. Whether the reason is too much work, or being ill; it happens for a variety of reasons. No matter the reason, it is a little confusing to step on the scale and see that your weight has actually gone down and not up like you expected.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/07_2008/scale.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="486" width="300"></span>Unfortunately, the slight decrease in pounds isn't the kind of weight loss you want. You've lost muscle. Depending on how long you've taken off from working out, after a month or two, you could end up losing a few pounds of muscle. And this is something you really want to avoid. Each pound of muscle burns <a href="http://exercise.about.com/od/exerciseworkouts/f/muscle.htm" target="_blank">about five to ten calories</a> a day. Fat only burns about two, so that means if you drop three pounds of muscle, that's about 50 fewer calories burned per day. Burning less calories will eventually cause you to gain weight.</p> <p><b>Fit's Tips:</b> There's nothing wrong with taking a day or even a couple weeks off when it comes to working out, but don't make a habit of it. Try to <a href="http://fitsugar.com/561838" >make a schedule each week and stick to it</a>. Your overall health will benefit in the long run.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1046088#comment exercise muscle mass Weight Loss Mon, 18 Feb 2008 09:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1046088 http://www.fitsugar.com/1041876 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-1041876"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1041876',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1041876');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p>Working out on the weekend feels so much different, doesn't it? You're usually not rushed so you can fit it in when you want to, and it often feels more enjoyable. So which day do you prefer to exercise on the weekends?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/07_2008/workout.jpg" alt="" title="" class="center image preview" height="256" width="530"></span></p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1041876" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Weekend Workout: Saturday or Sunday?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Saturday — It's a great way to start my weekend.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Sunday — I like to end my weekend doing something for me.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Both — I love being active for the entire weekend. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Neither — My weekends are for relaxing and doing anything but working out.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other — It depends on whether or not I have time to fit it in.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1041876" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/1041876#comment exercise Poll weekend Sat, 16 Feb 2008 04:00:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1041876 http://www.fitsugar.com/1021199 <p>While my girl <a href="http://fabsugar.com" >FabSugar</a> is doing her thing in NYC for <a href="http://fabsugar.com/tags/2008+fall+new+york+fashion+week" >Fashion Week</a>, we managed to score a little beauty advice from <a href="http://fitsugar.com/tags/molly+sims" >Molly Sims</a> for us. To my surprise, she's one healthy lady.<br /> <center><object width="425" height="350"><br /> <param name="movie" value="http://teamsugar.com/v/1019557"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://teamsugar.com/v/1019557" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object> </center></p> <p>I know having your own personal makeup artist can do wonders, but I love that she had exercise and drinking water on her list of beauty secrets because it's so true! I would have never pinned her as a health nut, though we did see her <a href="http://fitsugar.com/tags/molly+sims" >working out with her dog</a> recently. </p> <p>Oh and I'm checking into this "Barley Green" thing, but it sounds a little gimmicky.</p> http://www.fitsugar.com/1021199#comment beauty exercise molly sims Fri, 08 Feb 2008 02:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/1021199 http://www.fitsugar.com/997461 <p>We all have our couch potato moments. Winter means hibernation, right? Well don't make chilling out on the couch your long term hobby because doing so could put a decade on your life.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/05_2008/couch%20potato.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" width="250"></span>In a recent <a href="http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn13238-couch-potato-lifestyle-may-speed-up-ageing.html" target="_blank">study</a> researchers measured telomeres, the DNA that bookends our chromosomes, of 2041 identical twins. Telomeres act as a kind of chromosomal clock, since they shorten each time a cell divides. Shorter telomeres indicate an older biological age, as opposed to actual age. Kind of like the inverse of tree rings – the more rings the older the tree; the shorter your telomeres the older you seem biologically. </p> <p>In the twin telomere study, researchers found that folks getting on average 16 minutes exercise were about 10 years biologically older (having 200 base pairs of shorter telomeres) than the most active participants who exercised for three hours a week. So far, no research has proven that shorter telomeres means shorter life expectancy, but they do lead to more age related disease, like Alzheimer's. Bottom line: turn off the telly and go walk the doggie.</p> <p>If you are spending time on the couch, you can always try this invigorating, yet <a href="http://fitsugar.com/986235" >relaxing back stretch</a> on your couch.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/997461#comment aging exercise Health Thu, 31 Jan 2008 03:00:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/997461 http://www.fitsugar.com/996983 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/05_2008/treadmill.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" width="200"></span>I am happy <a href="http://fitsugar.com/994725" >I worked out this morning</a>, because otherwise this story would put me to shame. <a href="http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=72671" target="_blank">Ida Wasserman</a> of Sun City Center, FL, celebrated her 100th birthday by starting her day with a treadmill workout. She exercises because she "feels good after exercise." Three years ago, Ida was walking with the help of a walker, and now she walks tall. The treadmill, however, is not Wasserman's favorite workout. She prefers the rowing machine because it reminds her of rowing in Central Park with her husband. Ida's daughter leads her mother through a two-hour workout, seven days a week. Moving around keeps those "centenarian kinks" at bay.</p> <p>Wasserman has this <a href="http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=72671" target="_blank">advice</a>, “I would say keep active, because once you stop being active, you’re no longer much of a person.” To see the real Ida in action, check out <a href="http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=72671" target="_blank">this site</a>.</p> <p>Those sound like words of wisdom to me! Do you plan to work out when you are 100? Tell me in the comments section below.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/996983#comment 100 year old exercise motivation Wed, 30 Jan 2008 16:00:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/996983 http://www.fitsugar.com/994725 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-994725"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/994725',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-994725');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/05_2008/rowing.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="301" width="200"></span>When I asked you all what your <a href="http://fitsugar.com/907453" rel="nofollow">top resolution of 2008</a> was going to be, "exercising more" was number one. Since we have all had four weeks to work on factoring exercise into our lives, I just wanted to check in. So I want to know . . . </p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/994725" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Have You Exercised Today? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Not yet – I am going at lunch.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> I will after work!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> No plans to exercise today, but now that you asked I might get motivated!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other – share the details in the comments section below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="994725" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/994725#comment exercise Poll Tue, 29 Jan 2008 03:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/994725 http://www.fitsugar.com/987799 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/04_2008/yo-yo-exercise.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="252" width="250"></span>We've all heard that yo-yo dieting is bad for your health, but did you know that yo-yo exercising could be just as bad? </p> <p>A study from the <a href="http://jap.physiology.org/cgi/content/full/102/4/1308?maxtoshow=&amp;HITS=10&amp;hits=10&amp;RESULTFORMAT=&amp;fulltext=hyperplasia&amp;andorexactfulltext=and&amp;searchid=1&amp;FIRSTINDEX=0&amp;sortspec=relevance&amp;resourcetype=HWCIT" target="_blank">Journal of Applied Physiology</a> has found that periods of strenuous exercise followed by weeks of physical inactivity can lead to increased fat cell production. Since increased fat cell production — fat cell hyperplasia — can lead to weight gain and obesity, this is not something any of us want, nor is it healthy. This is why moderation and making a plan to fit exercise (and healthy eating) into your lifestyle is recommended rather than starting something drastic that you know you will not be able to follow for years to come.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/987799#comment exercise moderation yo yo exercising Mon, 28 Jan 2008 02:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/987799 http://www.fitsugar.com/967622 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-967622"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/967622',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-967622');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/03_2008/running-day.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="275" width="200"></span>When it comes to working out on the weekends, some of us are <a href="http://fitsugar.com/345603" rel="nofollow">weekend warriors</a> while the rest of us like to take the weekends off. Me, I like to exercise on the weekend because my schedule is a little more flexible in terms of when I can do it and where. So what about you guys . . . </p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/967622" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Exercise on the Weekends?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes — every weekend.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No — only during the week.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Sometimes — depends on the weekend.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="967622" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/967622#comment exercise Poll weekend Sat, 19 Jan 2008 03:00:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/967622 http://www.fitsugar.com/961658 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/03_2008/alarm-clock.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="377" width="275"></span>OK, so yes, it is very hard to drag yourself out of bed before the sun rises, but there are some fabulous benefits to working out in the morning. (<a href="http://fitsugar.com/929739" >What time do you like to work out</a>?) Here are my top five favorite things about morning workouts:</p> <ol> <li>Knowing that the workout is over before the day has even begun (and the kids and dog have woken up).</li> <li>Getting energy to fuel my day from working out instead of coffee.</li> <li>Drinking lots of water before 9 a.m.</li> <li>Not having to fight the lunch or after-work traffic at the gym (and on the road). <li>Learning that I am a morning person after all.</li> </ol> <p>What are your favorite reasons for working out in the morning? Share them in the comments section below.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/961658#comment 5 Things exercise Morning Workout Workout Fri, 18 Jan 2008 12:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/961658 http://www.fitsugar.com/956715 <p>If you're looking to really tone up and slim down this year, think about doing two workouts in one day every so often. No, I am not trying to imply that you need to hit the gym for two tough and sweaty sessions — it's hard enough to get there once a day. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/03_2008/couple-walking.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="250" width="250"></span>However, just because you worked out once does not mean you should give yourself the green light to forgo all other physical activity throughout the day. For example, if you already go to the gym in the morning then how about taking a 30-minute walk after dinner? </p> <p>I was totally guilty of this since my husband used to always ask me to go for a walk and I'd say, "Well, I already went to the gym this morning." I have since stopped this behavior by reminding myself that all the extra movement is extra healthy for my body. What's more? Doing the extra physical activity with my husband is really fun. </p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/956715#comment exercise Fit Tip twice a day Tue, 15 Jan 2008 11:45:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/956715 http://www.fitsugar.com/941874 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/02_2008/uncool.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="376" width="250"></span>I recently read an <a href="http://www.wfsb.com/dietandfitness/11262881/detail.html" target="_blank">article</a> that opened my eyes up to the fact that exercise is very uncool among certain groups, particularly the hipster population. Running shoes, sweating, and "caring" being the top reasons exercise loses cool points in such circles. </p> <p>WTF!? </p> <p>Since when has doing something healthy for your body become uncool? Is it cooler to say you're going to hit some independent band's underground show than to say you're going to hit the gym? I mean, I know there are a lot of <a href="http://fitsugar.com/slides/tags/cool+or+not" >questionable health products</a> out there, but if exercising is uncool then I'd have to be just about the uncoolest person out there and I couldn't care less. (Does not caring make me cool again?) Am I alone here — what do you guys think? Speak up and share your thoughts in the comments section below. Is exercise uncool?</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/941874#comment exercise Speak Up uncool Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/941874 http://www.fitsugar.com/902944 <p>So the holiday season has nearly come and gone and for most of us, this can trigger a let down that gives us a case of the blues. Eating too much, drinking too much and spending too much are among the many causes of holiday blues. Add family tension and you've got yourself a few good reasons to get a grip. Luckily there are a few easy <a href="http://healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=610998" target="_blank">steps you can take to make coming off the holidays a little bit easier</a> on yourself.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/52_2007/SAD.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="182" width="250"></span> <ul> <li>Eat a balanced diet, which results in more energy and an improved sense of wellbeing. Cut back on caffeine if you are having trouble sleeping and cut back on the festive cocktails.</li> <li>Go for a walk. Physical activity helps you lose weight and improves your mood. If the winter weather looks foreboding, work out inside. Take advantage of New Year's specials to join a gym or your fellow post-holiday shoppers walking the outer edge of the mall.</li> <li>Talk about it. According to Dr. Gary L. Malone, medical director and chief of behavioral health at Baylor All Saints Medical Center at Fort Worth, Texas, sharing your troubles with someone else can be a relief, and they may be able to offer another perspective that could help you.</li> </ul> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/902944#comment balanced diet christmas blues depression exercise talk about it Thu, 27 Dec 2007 02:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/902944 http://www.fitsugar.com/692369 <p>I've definitely used the excuse before that <a href="http://fitsugar.com/155038" >I'm too tired after work</a> to exercise, or that <a href="http://fitsugar.com/64032" >I just don't have the time</a>. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/46_2007/womantv.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="308" width="300"></span>Nobody has an extra hour lying around in their day for working out — you have to <i>make</i> the time. That means that sometimes you've got to multitask to get in a workout. </p> <p>So why not exercise while watching TV? I keep a set of weights and a resistance band in the TV&ndash;stand drawer, so after dinner, during my favorite shows, instead of sitting my lazy butt on the couch, I do strength training exercises. I really do. I lay a mat on the floor (it makes my workout seem more official that way), and I work my muscles for about 30 minutes. I always feel good afterwards, and it puts me in a calm mood just in time for bedtime.</p> <p>Need some ideas for what you can do in front of the TV? Then</p> <ul> <li>Stretch your tight hips and hamstrings by doing this <a href="http://fitsugar.com/752444" >yoga sequence</a>.</li> <li><a href="http://fitsugar.com/120602" >Tone your abs</a> with these strengthening exercises. <li>Work your outer thighs and buns with the <a href="http://fitsugar.com/551450" >Pilates Clam Series</a>.</li> <li>Work your whole body with this <a href="http://fitsugar.com/303506" >Mini Boot Camp</a> series of moves.</li> <li>Tone your backside with this <a href="http://fitsugar.com/214635" >four-minute booty routine</a>.</li> <li>Grab some dumbbells and <a href="http://fitsugar.com/157054" >work your arms and upper back</a>.</li> <li>Work your waist and <a href="http://fitsugar.com/130987" >get rid of those love handles</a> with this series of moves.</li> <li>Use a resistance band to <a href="http://fitsugar.com/96227" >tone your biceps</a>.</li> </ul> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/692369#comment exercise Fit Tip tv weights Workout Wed, 14 Nov 2007 11:00:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/692369 http://www.fitsugar.com/764377 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-764377"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/764377',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-764377');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p>I'm grateful that there are so many different ways you can exercise your body. We can run outside, use <a href="http://fitsugar.com/tags/cardio%20machine" rel="nofollow">cardio machines</a>, take dance classes, lift weights, learn Kung Fu, and use <a href="http://fitsugar.com/tags/move%20it%20at%20home" rel="nofollow">fitness DVDs</a>. With all those options I was wondering, <b>where</b> do you usually exercise?</p> <p><span class="inline center"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/45_2007/w.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" height="200" width="538"></span></p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/764377" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Where Do You Primarily Work Out?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> At a gym </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Outside</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Home</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Yoga Studio</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Dance Studio</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="5" class="form-radio" /> Martial Arts Studio</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="6" class="form-radio" /> A physical therapist or other medical facility</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="7" class="form-radio" /> Other - Tell me below</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="764377" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/764377#comment cardio machine exercise Gym Home Gym outside Workout Mon, 12 Nov 2007 03:00:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/764377 http://www.fitsugar.com/765260 <p>Health care costs a fortune and instead of waiting for officials to make changes, companies such as Des Moines-based Principal Financial Group (PFG), are <a href="http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_45/b4057083.htm" target="_blank">taking matters into their own hands</a>. What's their idea? They plan on charging less-than-healthy employees higher fees for their health care.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/45_2007/dr.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="300" width="300"></span>PFG launched its program on Oct. 11 to make employees shape up or pay up. Here's how it works. All employees start off with "enhanced coverage" where they have lower deductibles and co-pays than the "standard coverage." Then the employees agree to a health screening, and if they reach certain scores in all the criteria (like low blood pressure, good cholesterol levels, and healthy BMI), they get to stay on the low-cost plan. If they don't score well on these tests, then they have to agree to work with a health coach (provided by the company), to improve their scores. If a person refuses to take the tests in the first place, won't work with the coach, or slacks off on an exercise program assigned by the coach, then they'll end up paying high deductibles and co-pays.</p> <p>This is a fairly new approach, and some companies are leery about initiating such programs for fear that they'll upset their employees, or be sued by them. What do you think? Would lower health care costs encourage you to eat right, exercise, and take better care of yourself? Or do you think these types of health care programs are a form of discrimination?</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/765260#comment co-pay deductible exercise health care health insurance Wed, 07 Nov 2007 07:30:00 -0800 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/765260 http://www.fitsugar.com/730820 <p>Part of getting a good workout means that I sweat a lot. I don't necessarily need to be sopping wet like when I take a <a href="http://fitsugar.com/351175" >Bikram yoga class</a>, but a little sweat makes me feel like I pushed myself.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/43_2007/Pd_00360_00_lg.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="263" width="216"></span>The bad thing about sweating when you workout is that it can lead to breakouts, and not just on your face. Blemishes can appear on your back, neck and chest, but they don't have to.</p> <p>Here are some tips on preventing exercise-related pimples:</p> <ul> <li>Wash your face before working out to get all the oil and makeup off. Then apply a facial moisturizer that's made for acne-prone skin such as <a href="http://www.neutrogena.com/ProductsDetails_360.asp?lProductLineID=1" target="_blank">Neutrogena's Oil-Free Anti-Acne Moisturizer</a>.</li> <li style="width:550px;">Always wear clean workout clothes. Choose a sports bra and tank top that has over-the-shoulder sleeves instead of a racerback or t-shirt that covers your back. Wear the least amount of clothes while still feeling comfortable, since the more your skin is covered, the hotter you'll feel and the more you'll sweat.</li> <li>Wear clothes made of breathable fabric. Many sports bras and tops are made of wicking material that pulls sweat off the skin.</li> </ul> <p>There are more tips. To see them </p> <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/730820">read more</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/730820#comment acne bacne exercise favorite excuse not to work out pimples Salicylic Acid sweat Thu, 25 Oct 2007 12:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/730820 http://www.fitsugar.com/675411 <p>If you've ever been exercising and just wanted to break down in tears, you are not alone. This is because sometimes exercise may release a surprising slew of pent-up emotions.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/40_2007/pent-up-emos.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="375" width="250"></span>Karol Ward, a therapist in private practice in New York City, <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21073097/" target="_blank">weighs in</a> on getting emotional while working out:</p> <blockquote><p>The body holds on to feelings, even if it seems the mind has dealt with them. So if a person has the opportunity to relax that area, whatever has been held there can come to the surface. The body wants to complete the emotional experience.</p></blockquote> <p>This may explain why some of us find a good hard workout at the gym a very liberating and stress releasing experience after a hardship in our lives. If you find yourself in tears, then it should not be anything to worry about (unless you are in pain of course). I will say, however, that I have not been moved (pun intended) to tears, but I would love to hear from anyone that has so share your stories in the comments section below.</p> <p><b>Fit's Tip:</b> Crying during exercise can be a great stress-reliever, but sometimes people need professional help outside of working out to deal with their own issues.</p> <p><a href="http://legacycreative.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/675411#comment Another Reason to Exercise crying exercise releasing pent-up emotions Thu, 04 Oct 2007 12:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/675411 http://www.fitsugar.com/642167 <p>Perhaps the phrase jumping for joy means more than we thought...</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/38_2007/jumping-for-joy.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="406" width="250"></span><a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSCOL96941220070919?feedType=RSS&amp;feedName=healthNews&amp;pageNumber=2" target="_blank">New research</a> has found that regular exercise may work as well as medication in improving symptoms of major depression. Not only does exercise affect some key chemicals of the nervous system (norepinephrine and <a href="http://www.geeksugar.com/g2/entries/serotonin" >serotonin</a>) that are targets of antidepressant drugs, but exercise may also boost people's feelings of self-efficacy and promote positive thinking. Some experts also speculate that group exercise may have even more added benefits.</p> <p>Doctors may not start widely prescribing exercise as a depression treatment just yet. However, for patients who are motivated, exercise could be a great option to start on their own.</p> <p>For those not depressed, per se, exercise is still a great way to boost your mood even if you've just had a bad day.</p> <p><a href="http://creative.gettyimages.com/source/home/home.aspx" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/642167#comment Another Reason to Exercise depression exercise exercise helps beat depression Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/642167 http://www.fitsugar.com/599100 <p><a href="/562173" >September</a> is here and whether you like it or not, the weather is starting to cool off. I'm a little sad that warm weather is dwindling away, but I am <b>psyched</b> to spend more time outside. The cooler weather of autumn makes exercising outside much more pleasant and safe, since you don't have to worry as much about overheating. You do need to wear extra layers though.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/36_2007/pat.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="326" width="550"></span></p> <p>Every outdoorswoman needs to have a great fleece. I love this one from Patagonia - the <a href="http://www.patagonia.com/web/us/product/product_focus.jsp?OPTION=PRODUCT_FOCUS_DISPLAY_HANDLER&amp;style_color=36161-947&amp;patcatcode=MAIN_FA07_US.CLOTHING_GEAR.WOMENS.JACKETS" target="_blank">Lightweight R4 Jacketa</a>, because it's simple yet practical. </p> <p>It's not too big and bulky, so it won't get in the way when you move. Plus the best part is that this fleece is windproof, so you'll stay extra warm. I also like the fact that the shoulders are seamless, so if you are wearing a <a href="/tags/backpack" >backpack</a>, the seams won't dig into you. Pockets are a necessity and this jacket has three - 2 hand pockets, and 1 on your chest. </p> <p>I know that $200 may seem kind of pricey, but remember that even though this jacket is lightweight, it'll still keep you as warm as thicker fleeces because it's windproof. Plus it's a great jacket to layer underneath a hardshell or <a href="/81585" >down jacket</a> for the winter. It's also 100% recyclable through the <a href="/558299" >Common Threads Recycling Program</a>. Order it from <a href="http://www.patagonia.com/web/us/product/product_focus.jsp?OPTION=PRODUCT_FOCUS_DISPLAY_HANDLER&amp;style_color=36161-947&amp;patcatcode=MAIN_FA07_US.CLOTHING_GEAR.WOMENS.JACKETS" target="_blank">Patagonia</a> in Aquatic Blue, Poppy Fields (both shown), Black, and Safety Green.</p> http://www.fitsugar.com/599100#comment exercise fleece hike hiking jacket lightweight patagonia Mon, 10 Sep 2007 02:30:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/599100 http://www.fitsugar.com/581057 <!-- no strip poll --><!-- no rss --><div id="epoll-view-581057"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/581057',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-581057');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><!-- /no rss --><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/35_2007/Labor-day-poll.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline left image preview" height="256" width="200"></span><b>Happy Labor Day!</b></p> <p><b>Labor Day</b>, technically means a day of rest for the "working man or woman." I sincerely hope you had the opportunity to take the day off work, but did you exercise today or are you taking a workout vacation too?</p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/581057" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Did You Exercise Today? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I worked out!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Not yet, but I will workout later.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Nope, not working out today.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other. Tell us Below!</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="581057" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.fitsugar.com/581057#comment exercise happy labor day labor day Poll Mon, 03 Sep 2007 15:00:00 -0700 FitSugar http://www.fitsugar.com/581057 http://www.fitsugar.com/557599 <p>Did you know that exercise might actually slow the shrinking process of your hippocampus? Huh? Hippo-what? This is good news, I swear, and here's why...</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/12981/34_2007/brain-pic.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="167" width="250"></span><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/19/sports/playmagazine/0819play-brain.html?pagewanted=2&amp;_r=1" target="_blank">Apparently</a>, the hippocampus is the part of the brain that plays a large role in how mammals create and process memories; it also plays a role in cognition. If your hippocampus is damaged (or shrunken), you most likely have trouble learning facts and forming new memories. For example, a number of studies have shown that people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia tend to have smaller-than-normal hippocampi. All the mumbo jumbo aside, turns out that shrinkage to parts of the hippocampus can be slowed via, you've guessed it, exercise. So start moving and if not for your health and not your vanity, at least do it to keep your wits about you.</p> <p>(Points to ponder: Dumb jocks and Mike Tyson.)</p> <p><a href="http://creative.gettyimages.com/source/home/home.aspx" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.fitsugar.com/557599#comment Another Reason to Exercise brain exercise hippocampus