Tag Archives: beginners guide to fitness

A Beginner’s Guide to Cardio

treadmillCardiovascular exercise, also known as cardiorespiratory exercise, is defined as physical exercise that is intended to improve the cardiovascular system. The more cardio you do, the more efficient the cardiovascular system becomes with absorbing and transporting oxygen. Cardio is intended to get the heart rate up and to keep it up for an extended amount of time. By doing so, you will help reduce body fat, increase blood flow, decrease anxiety and depression, decrease resting heart rate, and improve the overall strength of the heart.

Beginning the cardio process is somewhat difficult because you definitely do not want to over do it. If you have knee or ankle problems, I recommend using either the stationary bike or the elliptical. If you have no injuries or problematic areas, I recommend using the treadmill. (more…)

Posted on January 18, 2024 by Matt

A Beginner’s Guide to Weight Training

The process of starting to weight train is somewhat difficult. Many questions like “Which machines should I use?” and “How much weight or how many repetitions?” can seem overwhelming.woman weights

1. The first thing you need to do is figure out your limitations. Fully understand the injuries that you have or have had in the past that may still create a problem today.

2. Next, you need to set a goal. Do you want to reduce body fat, gain weight, increase strength, or increase endurance? Each of these require a modified weight training regimen. (more…)

Posted on January 14, 2024 by Matt

A Beginner’s Guide to the Gym

Well, 2024 is here and it’s time to start those New Year’s resolutions. A popular resolution by many people is to increase their fitness level. Well, the first step to doing so is finding a gym. Finding the right gym is a difficult process and in some cases a huge hassle. Follow these simple steps below and you will find the right gym/health club.woman working out

Beginner’s Guide to the Gym:

Step 1:  Research several gyms/health clubs and find a few that satisfy your needs/wants.

Step 2: Visit each of those gyms/health clubs and tour them to see if you like or dislike the environment/equipment.

Step 3: Sit down with a membership representative and figure out if you want to do a month-to-month or yearly plan. (more…)

Posted on January 4, 2024 by Matt

How to Become a Runner: Part 2 Making Progress

runnerI’ve been writing recently about how to start a running program. My first race was a 5K and at that time, I had no idea I would ever get into running and complete a 50 miler. Read my previous post about getting started before moving on to this section about kicking it up a notch.

OK, so you decided to start running, you got your shoes and watch, you set realistic goals, and you’ve started “wogging” (that’s a jog/walk combo). By now, you’ve gone out a few times and maybe you’re even jogging more than walking. It’s time to get a little more serious (just a little). (more…)

Posted on December 18, 2023 by Rebecca

How to Become a Runner: Part 1 Getting Started

runnersQuestion: Are you a runner? Do you want to be? Like most people, I never saw myself as a runner. But the day I signed up for my first 5K race, I was “hooked.” I just didn’t realize it. Now, I run distances up to 50 miles! If you would have told me after my first 5K that I would one day run marathons and ultra marathons I would have laughed hysterically. That’s exactly the point. Who knew a runner was lurking inside me? Could there be one in you? Read on to find out.

Prepare Yourself

  • Get clearance. If you’re thinking of starting a running program, or at least trying it out, make sure you are medically able to do so. Most generally healthy people would be cleared. However, if you have a heart condition or past injury, your doctor may put the kibosh on your running dreams. If you’re already cleared for exercise, then it’s time to equip yourself. (more…)
Posted on December 17, 2023 by Rebecca