Fitmanner Health Blog » Exercise Guide

Choosing a rucksack

admin — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 16:42:35 +0000

Anyone who’s into hiking knows that the more skilled you become, the more you recognise the need for specialised gear. To top it off, each excursion has you constantly refining what it is you want out of your gear like your shoes, your hiking poles, your water storage, etc. Then you’ll need this type of gear for this type of trip and that type of gear for that type of outing; some items transcend but the right gear can make or break a hike.

There are a number of reputable rucksack manufacturers out there such as Macpac, Golite and Osprey – and the reputable ones do a lot of little things right. With step after grueling step, the little things quickly add up. The best packs seem to assess your needs even before you do, by offering well-placed waist pockets and also straps made with high quality hardware.

Whatever brand you choose, if you do a little bit of research you should also be able to find a pack that fits you perfectly, and if it’s a little off at the start then play around with the straps until everything is where it should be. Whether you’re needing a light pack for ½ day, full-day or multi-day hikes you should be able to find what you’re looking for. Granted, not all packs are cheap but like the proper footwear, a good pack is well worth the money. No matter whom you go with if you pick a good pack that truly suits your overall needs then once you own one you’ll most likely be hard pressed to find fault with it.

Yoga for Your Heart

admin — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 01:06:45 +0000

If you want to treat your heart right, consider exercise – especially yoga. Since heart disease is currently the leading cause of death for both men and women, it is even more important to take care of your cardiovascular system. One way of doing that, besides eating healthy fats and healthy foods, is to exercise. Yoga, in particular, has been found to be very beneficial for the cardiovascular system.

Reduce blood pressure

One reason yoga is good for your heart is that it promotes relaxation and reduces blood pressure. Studies have shown that you can reduce your overall risk of heart disease by practicing yoga three times a week. Yoga also slows pulse rate and increases the elasticity of our arteries. Yoga has been found to also to increase circulation and promote healthy circulation in the body. Practicing yoga on an ongoing basis helps to strengthen your heart muscles.

Heart healthy yoga poses

Yoga in general will help protect your heart, but there are particular yoga poses that are even better for your heart and cardiovascular system. Upper back-bending poses, for example, opens the chest and improves heart function and respiration. Yoga poses that lengthen the spine help to promote proper posture which reduces the compression of the heart and lungs, allowing the heart to function properly.

Yoga is also a great choice for those wanting to tone their muscles and stay fit overall. Since yoga is so great for your heart most people of varying fitness levels are able topratice yoga. Before starting a workout routine, however, you should consult with your doctor. This is especially true if you are on an medications or have a serious heart condition. If you are interested in practicing yoga at home or taking a yoga class, there are plenty of yoga programs designed for different fitness levels and even age levels. There are yoga programs targeted to young children, seniors and even pregnant women. Yoga reduces stress, which can have a profound effect on the heart disease. Whichever workout program you choose, be sure to drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet to support your workout routine.

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Guide to buying treadmills

admin — Tue, 26 May 2009 22:41:54 +0000

Most treadmill lovers think that you also need to spend if you want a good quality treadmill. The cost helps you make sure that you have a combination of good features and structure which can allow you run on it efficiently for a longer period of time. However, because of the cost drawn in, your decision about using the machine on a regular basis is very important before spending on one. Here’s a guide that may help you shop for that running machine you always wanted (and needed):

Shop at stores that present a number of treadmill models. Make sure that they will deliver and assemble your treadmill, and that they offer a maintenance contract.
As you shop, make sure that you always have your running gear with you. Ask the store owner if you can try the treadmill that you’re eyeing on. This way, you can get a feel of the treadmill. If the store owner does not let you, shop at another store!
When you’re running on the treadmill at the top speed, make sure that the treadmill does no shake.
The top speed of the treadmill should be one or two speed level faster that what you plan to run on it. It should also be elevated higher that how you plan to elevate it. Remember, you don want to “over exhaust” your treadmill just because the settings that you plan to run on it are its full power already.

Please remember to fully investigate your purchase as this treadmill guide isn’t fully comprehensive. We do hope it has helped though.