As We Age

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As we age, mornings seem to be the most uncomfortable time for our bodies. Many inflammatory conditions and overuse injuries are worse at the start of the day. Arthritis is just one example of many, and studies show it is not in our imaginations. There is actually a physiological reason why the pain and stiffness in our joints is worse … Read More

Simulating Water Movement from the Deck

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Effective fitness instruction from the pool deck is key to an aqua participant’s exercise experience. There’s nothing more frustrating than attending a fitness class and the instructor fails to communicate exactly what and how a movement is supposed to be performed. Keep in mind that “communication” refers to more than the spoken word. Everything your body does is a form … Read More

The Importance of Including Recovery in Your Fitness Routine

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High-Intensity Interval Training has been a popular format in all kinds of group exercise classes, including water fitness classes, and for good reason. HIIT has been shown to improve blood pressure, cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, cholesterol profiles, and abdominal fat and body weight. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days a … Read More

Revive That Tired Routine

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We know that changing the way we do traditional exercises is beneficial for the body. Changing the movement pattern will present a different challenge to strength, endurance, flexibility, coordination, agility, balance resulting in improvements in functional mobility. Recent research has shown that performing non-routine movements also provides a greater cognitive challenge than performing traditional exercises. It is safe to say … Read More

Give Me A High Five!

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For many of us, being fit means maintaining a healthy weight with diet and exercise. However, the “healthy weight = fit” idea really omits several of the components of what being truly fit means. In biological terms, “being fit” means being able to provide for one’s own life and wellbeing by adhering to five aspects of physical fitness. We all … Read More

10 Tips for a Long Teaching Career

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Sure, you stay active and teach often, but are you practicing safe habits to insure you’ll be healthy and injury free to keep teaching for a long time? Well, how long is long, right? According to Jeff Nelson, author of The Longest Professional Sports Careers, “The average playing career for an NFL player is 3.5 years; the average MLB career … Read More

Help Clients Make Symptoms of Aging Optional

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It’s probably safe to say that your decision to become a fitness professional was inspired at least in part by a passion for helping people live their best life—a life that’s vibrant, active, and full of energy and vitality. Addressing and preventing conditions and symptoms associated with aging is at the heart of that mission. One thing is for sure—we … Read More

Covid Proof: Legal Essentials for Fitness Pros & Studio Owners

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COVID-19 has completely changed how the fitness world operates. The laws and regulations that were in place prior to the pandemic have modified. As a result (and in order to keep your business protected) your legal agreements must alter as well. As an attorney who has worked with hundreds of fitness studio owners and professionals, there are certain steps you … Read More

Bite Into Active Aging Nutrition

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Over ten years ago, I was asked to teach a nutrition program at a senior center. It was the beginning of a wonderful journey working with Active Aging groups at gyms and senior living facilities. In 2012, I started teaching a class titled Healthy Aging: Nutrition Strategies for Optimal Longevity at Northeastern University. This led to my fascination with longevity … Read More

Adapting to Today’s Fitness Needs and Looking to Tomorrow

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The old, familiar phrase “resting on one’s laurels”, originated in ancient Greece and referred to someone who received a laurel wreath for achieving victory while always striving for more. Over time it has come to represent one who is content with current successes and not interested in doing much to continue prospering. In other words, you’ve gotten lazy and complacent. … Read More