December 2, 2025

Get Motivated! By Zachary Fiorido

October 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

How can I motivate to do cardio?

Have a plan. The first thing to do to get motivated is to have a plan. Most people lose motivation because they think of a couple exercise routines or programs that they need to do but then they start to lose track of the next steps to take due to lack of planning.

Write it down. Grab a pen and a piece of paper and brainstorm. Write down all your fitness goals, aspirations and any little thing that triggers something within you.  Once you have finished this brainstorming, keep it in a safe place and refer back to it when you have run out things to do to keep moving forward.

Break down your goals. Create small, attainable goals that will help set you up for success. Instead of saying you want to lose 30lbs, start with 5lbs. That way when you have reached your 5lb weight loss you are able to celebrate your success. The more goals you achieve the more successes you will have.

Have a motivation back-up. We all have days where we have no motivation to do anything. When this happens, I have a go-to music playlist. I have all my positive songs that put me in a fantastic mood where I can do anything. It could also be a book, or one of your favorite quotes. Whatever it is, know that this is your go-to source for motivation.

Zachary Fiorido is your go to Fitness Guy. I am Personal Trainer and Film/TV Actor. I want to help you achieve your goals! Please don’t hesitate to message me through Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ZacharyJFiorido

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5 Myths about Older Adult Exercise by Jody Goldenfield

October 12, 2012 By 1 Comment

 As we age, many of us buy into the notion that we can’t do certain activities because we are 55 or 65 or 75 or even 85. This is a myth! There are numerous studies showing that older adults can benefit both physically AND mentally from exercise! Here are 5 reasons why exercise is not only good for older adults but also important for their health:
 
Myth 1: Older adults can’t make significant muscle gains.
 
This is absolutely false. Credible organizations have proven that adults in their 70’s and 80’s and yes even 90’s can improve their fitness and gain muscle with a weight training program. There are numerous new stories on older adult competitive athletes running races and doing triathlons! Even if you start later in life, studies still show that you can make significant improvements in your health! Always be sure to learn from an accredited trainer who is certified and has advanced education training older adults.
 
Myth 2: I have existing health conditions that prevent me from exercising.
 
On the contrary, exercising can actually improve and help with existing conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart conditions and more. Always check with your doctor first, but most adults will reap the benefits of improved health and may even be able to reduce or eliminate some medications due to their improved condition.
 
Myth 3: I am too old – my joints hurt.
 
Again, studies show that joints can be strengthened and muscle gained later in life, even if you have not been doing anything regularly prior to starting an exercise program. Begin slowly, but you can walk, swim and even ride a stationary bike along with weight training. There are programs for older adults that have chair exercises that allow adults to improve over time. If walking is difficult, there are plenty of programs that help older adults work their body from a wheel chair, for example. Once again, find an accredited trainer in older adult exercise programs.
 
Myth 4: I am afraid I will hurt myself or fall.
 
Truthfully, falls are one of the main reasons why older adults end up in a hospital with broken hips or bone fractures. Starting an exercise program that will strengthen your muscles and joints not only leads to reduced incidences of falls and bone breaks. The reason for many of these falls and breaks is because a person has NOT strengthened the body. Don’t be afraid! 
 
Myth 5: I am just too old to do anything.
 
AGE IS JUST A NUMBER! You are what you believe you are! I will be 55 in November. Yes, I have been exercising for over 30 years but I never use my age as an excuse not to try harder and challenge myself. I lift heavier weights, I run and use other cardio machines at the gym. You are only limited by your own mind and what you tell yourself you can and can’t do.

If you are just starting out, there are plenty of ways to improve your overall health. Find activities that you like and are fun for you. You don’t have to do “traditional” workouts. Dance, swim, walk AND include resistance training. Your body will thank you for it and your mind as well! Studies show that an active person can improve their memory ability AND they are happier as well! Let’s get moving!
 
Written by Jody Goldenfield. I love weight lifting and am a health, fitness & workout enthusiast for over 30+years. At just short of 55, I am making sure I stay fit & healthy long term! I am also a FitFluential Ambassador. You can follow me at my blog Truth2BeingFit, http://www.truth2beingfit.com, Twitter @truth2beingfit, https://twitter.com/truth2beingfitFacebook and on Pinterest at http://pinterest.com/truth2beingfit/.

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Finding Time for Yourself! Written by Suzi Smart

October 7, 2012 By Leave a Comment

This article is sponsored by ELANVEDA. Do you want to MINIMIZE WRINKLES? Try Elan Skin Renue! Elan Skin Renue is a unique Ayurvedic blend of essential oils. http://store.elanveda.com/Skin-Renue-p9.html. When used consistently, this all-natural solution improves radiance and minimizes fine lines and wrinkles of the face and neck. Chock full of natural and organic essential oils, Elan Skin Renue is a power-packed blend with antioxidant oils. Simply apply 4-5 drops of Skin Renue to your face and neck and enjoy the youthful glow that follows! Enter HYW15SR for a 15% discount as our gift to you. (Expiration 10/15/12.) Find ELANVEDA’S entire product line here, www.elanveda.com. Email via info@elanveda.com or call them directly, 310.570.9535.

Finding Time for Yourself! Written by Suzi Smart

Have you ever found yourself longing for just 15 minutes to enjoy a HOT cup of coffee or an hour to be able to have an uninterrupted phone conversation with an old friend? Would you like to devote evening to a neglected hobby or spend the weekend away with your husband? It’s time to find the time.

Every mom I know is busy. Whether it’s fifteen minutes or an entire weekend, finding time for yourself gives you time to recharge.

Find 15 minutes - Run fewer errands. Yes, the milk at the grocery store is slightly cheaper than at the corner store you pass on your way home but if that’s all you need, save yourself the time. Have a hot cup of coffee in the time you saved.

Find an hour - Go for a workout. Many fitness centres offer childcare for a great rate. After a great workout (alone and undisturbed), you’ll be ready to tackle the next chore on the list. Or once a week, instead of tuning out in front of the television for an hour after you put your child(ren) in bed, devote that time to something you love to do.

Find an evening - Let a trusted friend or family member take care of the children for one evening. If they end up having cereal for dinner, go with it. One night isn’t going to hurt. Go to a movie, an exhibit or join a club.

Find a day (or part of a day) - Every other week or once in a while, trade the time with another mother. I’m sure there’s someone in your circle who would jump at the chance to have a day to themselves even if it means having an extra child the alternate week. Just imagine what you could do (or not do) with the time.

Find a weekend - It’s amazing what the power of asking will bring you. Ask a trusted friend or relative to care for your child(ren) for the weekend and escape with your husband. Ask your husband and escape for a girls weekend or a workshop that you’d like to attend.

While on the surface, taking time for yourself may seem selfish, in the end you’ll have more energy to devote to those you love. Finding the balance that works for you and your family is the key.
 

This article is written by Suzi Smart. Suzi is a stay-at-home mom raising a spirited three-year old boy, a wife, an outdoor enthusiast, graphic designer, writer and photographer. She writes The Big Picture – Inspiring families to find happiness outdoors and can be reached at TheBigPictureCalgary@gmail.com or @BigPictureYYC on Twitter.

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Are YOU an Active Traveler? Written by Amy Christensen

September 27, 2012 By Leave a Comment

This article is sponsored by ELANVEDA. Do you want to minimize wrinkles? Try Elan Skin Renue! Elan Skin Renue is a unique Ayurvedic blend of essential oils. http://store.elanveda.com/Skin-Renue-p9.html. When used consistently, this all-natural solution improves radiance and minimizes fine lines and wrinkles of the face and neck. Chock full of natural and organic essential oils, Elan Skin Renue is a power-packed blend with antioxidant oils. Simply apply 4-5 drops of Skin Renue to your face and neck and enjoy the youthful glow that follows! Enter HYW15SR for a 15% discount as our gift to you. (Expiration 10/15/12.) Find ELANVEDA’S entire product line here, www.elanveda.com. Email via info@elanveda.com or call them directly, 310.570.9535.

 

Workout Strategies for the Active Traveler

Written by Amy Christensen

I’m not going to sugarcoat this: Staying active while you’re traveling is incredibly challenging. Unless you plan your vacation around a specific adventure or excursion (i.e., rafting the Grand Canyon or trekking in Nepal), getting outside or keeping up with your regular workout routine takes serious dedication and diligence.

The first, most important thing to do is decide that staying active is going to be a priority while you’re traveling. It’s way too easy to sleep in, have that extra drink, or skip a workout to go do something else. So before you leave; before you pack—decide and commit.

There are things you can do to make it easy (okay, easier) to stay active on the road whether you’re traveling on business with back-to-back meetings, or you’re on vacation enjoying the eat-beach-nap-eat-nap-eat again routine.

Create and Put Your Plan in Place Ahead of Time
Once you’ve made the decision to commit, start planning. What activities do you enjoy and are they feasible (based on your available time and location?)

Call your hotel ahead of time and find out if they have a gym, what the hours are and what exercise equipment they have. If the gym isn’t your thing (or you’re camping), find out where the closest bike paths, trails, pools, yoga studios or climbing gyms are located.

Consider what kind of transportation you’ll need and make the necessary arrangements.

Running and walking are two of the easiest ways to stay active outside without too much hassle. Call the local running store for information on hosted group runs.

If you’re a cyclist, check out rental options or bring your bike with you (best if you’re driving) and research local group rides.

If you climb, head to a site like http://www.ClimbFind.com/ to find a partner or hit up the local climbing gym.

Recreation centers usually offer lap swimming, yoga and Pilates. Call or check online for fees, location, schedule and hours.

Time for Action!
Once you arrive at your destination, it’s time to take all the research and planning and get active. Mornings are often the best times to squeeze in activity. Set an alarm for not only the morning, but consider a bedtime alarm to help you get to bed with plenty of time to sleep.

Stay safe! Is the area you’re in relatively safe? Bring a cell phone, cash, credit card and map. Go with a buddy if possible. Be sure you know your route, along with the name and address of your accommodations.

And finally, have fun with it and remember not to be too hard on yourself. Set reasonable goals and learn over time what works and what doesn’t. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. That’s what traveling is all about right? Enjoy exploring, discovering and learning!
 

This article is written by Amy Christensen. Amy is a certified life coach with a passion for helping women step out of their comfort zone and break through self-limiting barriers. Based in Boulder, CO, her company, Expand Outdoors, focuses on creating healthy, sustainable, and fun lifestyle changes. Contact her at amyc@expandoutdoors.com or via http://www.expandoutdoors.com

 

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3 Must-Try Workouts! By Jessi Kneeland

September 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment

The weather’s cooling down, but that doesn’t mean your workout schedule should.

Here are 3 workout trends not to miss this fall.

Crossfit
Following Reebok’s purchase of the Crossfit brand, Crossfit has been steadily gaining visibility and popularity across the US, and it’s only going to get stronger. It appeals to people who want to try extremely challenging workouts in a competitive but supportive environment. It’s very intense, and not everyone will know their own limits, so please don’t try it if you’re new to working out. But if you’ve been exercising for awhile and are looking for a tough challenge and a community of fitness-lovers to push you, Crossfit might be your solution.

Adult Ballet Class
The popularity of ballet-based fitness classes like FlyBarre and The Barre Method has led people right back to the source. Beginner adult ballet classes are exploding so quickly that many studios have had to add extra classes to accommodate. Ballet strengthens and lengthens the body, improves posture, and works on rhythm, balance, and grace. It may not be the most efficient way to burn fat, but it’s fun and it lets you relive childhood fantasies of being a ballet dancer, so why not add a weekly class to your fall fitness lineup?

Destination Bootcamps
This last year has seen a huge increase in “fitness vacations,” and you shouldn’t expect the trend to slow down this fall. Unlike most vacations (where you eat everything in sight and fall off the fitness wagon) you’re practically guaranteed to return from these trips feeling fitter, less stressed, and more motivated. If you’re looking for a beach bootcamp, Holly Rilinger Fitness’s November trip to the West Indies (http://www.hollyrilinger.com/training-camp/destination-training-camp.html) includes outdoor training, yoga, and lots of time to relax and explore the beautiful location. If rugged choose-your-own-adventures are more your style, Red Mountain Resort in St. George, Utah (http://www.redmountainresort.com/) offers custom classes in fitness, nutrition, and stress management, as well as outdoor workouts and adventures.

Jessi Kneeland is a NYC based NASM certified personal trainer. She does most of her training out of Peak Performance (rated of the top 10 gyms in the US by Men’s Health!) and has a reputation for getting both working women and models into tip-top shape. She believes fitness is the key to confidence, and runs her blog Empowering Fitness at http://jessikneeland.wordpress.com/ in the hopes of helping everyone to become more body-positive. You can follow her on twitter at @jessikneeland or drop her an email at jlk399@gmail.com

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Which style of Yoga is best for me? By Jessica Matthews

September 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Which style of yoga is best for me? With a number of different styles of yoga to choose from, it’s important to be familiar with some of the specifics of each in order to ensure that you select a style that is in lie with your unique health, fitness and wellness goals, as well as your particular needs and interests. Below is a general overview of five of the different style of yoga currently being offered (this is by no means a comprehensive list)-

Hatha- This term, which can encompasses a variety of physical types of yoga, is typically reflective of gentle, slower-paced yoga classes which are great for beginners as well as for those seeking a solid, foundational understanding of basic yoga postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama) to help reduce stress.

Vinyasa- Much like Hatha, this term may also be used to describe a variety of class styles. The term vinyasa in its Sanskrit roots means “to place in a special way,” as this style of yoga is comprised of breath-synchronized movements designed to create flow throughout the practice (this style of yoga commonly referred to as “flow yoga.”)

Ashtanga- Sometimes referred to as “power yoga,” this physically demanding practice is a great option for those looking for a more serious physical challenge, as it is devised of six series of asanas which increase in difficulty.

Bikram- Also commonly referred to as “hot yoga” (although not all hot yoga classes are Bikram classes), this practice is comprised of a set sequence of 26 asanas that are performed in a heated room. Bikram classes are typically 90-minutes in length, and because of this it’s important to keep hydration in mind, as it takes time for the body to acclimate to exercising in heat.

Iyengar- This style of yoga focuses on bodily alignment, and encourages the use of props to facilitate precise body position within each pose. Emphasis is placed on holding the postures longer (for several breaths) as opposed to quickly flowing from one posture to another, making it a suitable option to accommodate those with any special needs, such as previous injuries or structural imbalances.

Jessica Matthews, MS, E-RYT, is an exercise physiologist, yoga teacher, group fitness instructor, personal trainer, adjunct professor, blogger and fitness personality. Jessica strives to open minds, ignite passion and inspire the world to health and fitness through purposeful movement, quality nutrition and kind words. She has been featured as a fitness expert on CNN and has been quoted in numerous publications including Shape, Self, Oxygen and Oprah.com. For more health and fitness information, follow Jessica at www.twitter.com/fitexpertjess. 

 

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Do YOU have what it takes? Sarah Stanley offers wisdom gained from endurance athletics.

September 21, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Sarah Stanley is an ultra endurance athlete who is passionate about her faith, eating real food, fitness and helping others! She’s completed 22 marathons, 11 ultramarathons, countless half marathons, plus 2 cycling adventures (DC to NYC and San Francisco to San Diego.) Allow her wisdom and encouragement to empower YOU to challenge your own fitness!

How do you handle all the different emotions that come with ultra-events?
It’s part of being an ultrarunner- you just accept how you’re feeling and keep on running! For longer ultra’s you’ll go through a wide range of different emotions. I’ve cried, laughed and cursed (yes) but always had fun! 
 
What physical/psychological skills have you’ve learned from endurance events?
It really is all in your head. You have to push yourself by giving yourself a pep talk (or two.) There are times when the going doesn’t just become rough, it becomes downright unbearable. And then I’ll think about those who can’t run or those who are serving our country or how the world needs some positive examples and I keep on trudging.
 
What do you say to yourself to keep going during an event?
I think back over my life and the things that I’ve overcome and survived, and that is what keeps me putting one foot in front of the other. I’ve come up with quotes such as “the 11th commandment: thou shalt not quit” or “giving up is for wimps” or “a finish is a finish.”  I also visualize the finish line, getting to the next aid station or top of hill. When you run an ultra you are your own cheerleader.

How do you control negative self-talk along the course?
I must (you must!) keep positive. Some races don’t always go as planned. It can be easy to get sucked into the mud (literally and figuratively.) If I get in a rough mental spot, it will be very hard to keep on running! Remember that running ultramarathons is 99% mental! I really try to just be thankful for the gift of running and enjoy the beauty that is around me. Ultras are run mainly on trails so there is usually plenty to gaze at; I find a special sweet spot-a grove or zone as some would call it- and I just stay there for the duration of the race (and even training for that matter.)

How do you handle/respond to others negativity while preparing for or during a race?
Ignore the haters! I surround myself with positive, loving, supportive people. Negativity always destroys while positive always builds up. Negative people are people trapped in their own unhappiness and will try to bring you down. Haters or negative people is about them- not about me or you. The best way to respond is with love and kindness and to keep doing what I am called to do, which is to make a positive difference in this world. 
 
What keeps you coming back again and again to race?
Love! The love of the sport, people, seeing how far you can push yourself when the going gets rough, being alone in the woods and really, there is just something about ultrarunning that I can’t describe with mere words. The energy, the woods, the challenge, the thrill of the unknown- it’s a sport I am in love with. And I hope I always will be.  
 
How has racing ultra’s helped you in everyday life?
Ultrarunning and life go hand-in-hand. I think that’s why I love it so much! Life has not always been easy for me and I’ve learned to rise above the bad and make the most of each day that I do have. My life has helped me in ultrarunning; ultrarunning is just the icing on the cake (or the salt on kale chips in my case.) 
 
What’s the number one thing racing has taught you? Either about yourself or others.
You never know how strong you are mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally until you tackle what most people think of as inconceivable and come out on the other side smiling (and yes, sometimes crying too.)

Are there stereotypes you face about female ultra-competitors? How do you debunk them?
I think that women are generally perceived as weaker to begin with. There are some incredible women athletes out there! I think the best way to debunk them is to just keep training and showing up-saying yes to life. Show others that you are committed and will always do your best- no matter what! 

What is your best advice to someone considering participating in an ultra?
Have some running under your shoes! You’ll have better long term success if you start small, stay diligent and consistent. Start running on trails. Ultras are synonymous with dirt, woods, river crossings, jumping trees, hills- you get the picture! Work on the small things that add up over time for example planks, side planks, squats, lunges, one leg squats, pushups. Then sign up for a 50k! And let me know- I would love to cheer you on either virtually or in person.

About:
Sarah is the founder of Sarah Stanley www.sarahstanleyinspired.com, faith+food+fitness. When Sarah isn’t running or cycling she enjoys creating new recipes, taking a hot yoga class and traveling. She’s been featured in various media outlets such as SHAPE, Ladies’ Home Journal, Washingtonian and SELF. Follow her on Twitter http://twitter/sarahstanley and Instagram http://web.stagram.com/sarahstanley_/

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Vibration Training: Efficient and Effective Exercise?

September 19, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Vibration Training: The Basics
When visiting the gym, you may have noticed funny looking machines that have a platform, columns, and straps on the side.  When people stand on the platform, they seem to vibrate or shake uncontrollably.  This isn’t a fad fitness craze but a tool science has been using for years (Dating back to Russian astronauts in the 1960s!)  People are finally catching on to this powerful and efficient way to exercise.  It is a huge hit in the UK and building up steam in the USA.  There are two main manufacturers, Power Plate and VibroGym.

What is it and how does it work?
The Power Plate is a platform that vibrates in three different directions.  These vibrations help engage every muscle in your body (similar to Pilates when you create instability by moving your arms) which has been proven to give you the same results in 30 minutes as a gym session lasting an hour and a half (European Journal of Obesity 2010.)  Depending on your goals, you can easily tone your body or sculpt bigger muscles in no time.

Who can try it?
Vibration training is suitable for anyone who wants to maximize what little time they have for exercise.  Due to setting options, those new to the gym as well as seasoned athletes can benefit.  Class sizes are usually small so the instructor can work with each member at their fitness level, creating more of a non-stop circuit-inspired class ensuring you give 100%.  Males and females members have seen the difference in their sports performance after training on a Power Plate.  
People with active cancer, a pacemaker, and/or are pregnant should not use the plate.  Sometimes if you have a head cold the vibrations can feel too intense, but just let your instructor know and they can help make your workout more comfortable.  People with replacement joints will need to wait for doctor’s approval before beginning their training on the plate.

What are the benefits?
Not only can vibration training improve your fitness, it also helps improve circulation and blood flow, promote lymphocyte drainage, decrease cellulite, and relaxes you with a massage at the end of the session  It also helps develop stability (ie prevent you from falling when you are older), increase your bone density, and help you recover from ACL injury.  Power Plate has links to these peer-reviewed studies on their website (www.powerplate.com).

Vibration training workouts are effective for both men and women.  Twenty five minutes on the plate is will have you just was sweaty as if you had a longer session in the gym.  Maximize your time and book in for a class today!

Mollie Millington is a London-based health and wellness coach.  She offers in-person and virtual training support.  You can visit her website, www.ptmollie.com , for free workouts, fitness info, and weekend challenges.  She is also on Twitter (@PTMollie), Facebook (www.facebook.com/pt.mollie), and Pinterest (www.pinterest.com/ptmollie).

 

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How to Work in Movement When Working! By Tammy Beasley

September 17, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Ran out of time to catch your spinning class at the gym? Worked too late to go for a walk? Overslept and missed your morning yoga class? It’s easy to get discouraged when your busy week seems to block every plan you have made to exercise. And it’s even easier to let one missed class lead to another missed walk and then end up giving up on exercise for the entire week, maybe even the month. That’s the perfect time to change your focus. Instead of stressing over what you haven’t done, look for the small opportunities to make exercise a part of your every day routine, not just a gym class on your weekly calendar. 

You can burn extra calories every single day by adding just a few small movements or changing a few simple behaviors. 

Try these: 
1) Use “standing in line” at the grocery store or gas station as a chance to tighten your abs or tighten your glutes.
2) Perform calf raises while talking on the telephone. Studies show that simply standing doing every day activities like talking on the telephone burns more calories than sitting behind a desk.                                                                                                                                                          3) If you have stairs at home, take them every time you do a load of laundry instead of accumulating all the loads into one before you make the trip.
4) Do crunches or push ups while watching TV – maybe not every time, but challenge yourself to see how many you can accomplish during the first ten minutes of your favorite sitcom You might be surprised how quickly the number increases.
5) Do jumping jacks during commercials. Your younger kids will love the new game, and your teenagers already expect odd behavior from you anyway!
6) Do upper-body stretches in the shower, like shoulder shrugs. 

Remember, wellness is a lifestyle, not just an aerobics class. The small steps matter in the big picture of health. A stressful week with limited time will not get the best of you when you put these new habits into play to keep you motivated and moving.

Tammy Beasley, RD, CSSD, LD, CEDRD
Rev It Up for Life
www.revitup4life.com

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Does Yoga Really Do a Body Good? By Jessica Matthews

September 11, 2012 By Leave a Comment

GET RELIEF FROM SORE MUSCLES NOW! This article is sponsored by ELANVEDA.
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Does Yoga Really Do a Body Good? Writtten by Jessica Matthews

Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years, so one would assume it must provide some great benefits, right? Well over the last decade as the interest and demand for mind-body programming has continued to increase, so has the number of research studies conducted to examine the specific benefits that yoga has to offer.

Benefits of yoga
Studies have shown that regular yoga practice can improve muscular strength and endurance, flexibility and balance, which are often overlooked aspects of fitness. Yoga has also been shown to decrease the risk factors for chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, and also is effective in reducing chronic low-back pain, an issue which will affect nearly 80% of Americans at some point during our lifetimes.

Beyond the physical
In addition to the numerous physiological benefits, yoga also provides an assortment of emotional and psychology benefits. Yoga by definition means “union,” in essence the connection between body, mind and spirit. Yoga has been shown to reduce stress, promote relaxation, improve mood, and increase subjective well-being. Available research also indicates that stress-related diseases, such as hypertension, pain, cardiovascular disease, and depression are beneficially affected by regular participation in mindful exercise, such as yoga.

Can yoga do it all?
While the research regarding the physical benefits of yoga is in impressive, it is important to note that yoga was traditionally not designed to be a “one-stop shop” in regards to fitness. Research has supported this notion by studying and identifying the lack of aerobic activity that yoga provides. A study sponsored by the American Council on Exercise (ACE®), conducted by Poraci and Spilde at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse, showed that that a 50-minute Hatha yoga practice provides no substantial aerobic benefit, as the number of calories subjects burned was comparable to that of a slow walk. Vinyasa-style or Asthanga yoga (often referred to as “power yoga”) on the other hand was shown to provide a mild aerobic workout, as a 50-minute practice burned 344 calories on average among participants.

These findings are not intended to deter individuals from integrating yoga into their current fitness program by any means. Instead, these findings help to shift the focus back to the numerous valuable benefits that yoga was intended to and does provide, which often times are the critical components that individual fitness routines are lacking.

 

This article is written by Jessica Matthews, MS, E-RYT, is an exercise physiologist, yoga teacher, group fitness instructor, personal trainer, adjunct professor, blogger and fitness personality. Jessica strives to open minds, ignite passion and inspire the world to health and fitness through purposeful movement, quality nutrition and kind words. She has been featured as a fitness expert on CNN and has been quoted in numerous publications including Shape, Self, Oxygen and Oprah.com. For more health and fitness information, follow Jessica at www.twitter.com/fitexpertjess.

 

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