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Anyone that wishes to live a healthier life without hitting the gym may find exactly what they need with a moderate to strenuous hike. Hikes have been a popular pastime for countless millions, and there may even be a few added health benefits that the average enthusiast does not know about. Here are just a handful of reasons that individuals of all ages and all skill levels should consider planning their next hike.

According to most specialists, the absolute minimum amount of exercise that an adult should get no less than 150 Read the rest of this entry »

Video games have become an important part of our society. In fact, the experience can be aptly called ubiquitous. Unlike in the past where it was seen as kid’s stuff, even the elderly are getting into the gaming spirit.
Gaming has led to some troubling societal repercussions though. We have become much more sedentary than we were in the past, thanks in part to video games. This has been a large contributor to the obesity epidemic we’re experiencing as a nation.
Fortunately, these games don’t Read the rest of this entry »

If you are having trouble sticking to an exercise routine, then you should consider working out with a friend. It is very easy to skip a workout when you do not have someone there to hold you accountable for your actions. A friend can motivate you to work out when you do not feel like it. Your friend can also push you to continue a vigorous workout when you feel like quitting. There have been numerous studies done to show that people who exercise with a friend are more Read the rest of this entry »

The weekly long run for a distance runner is important in training the body in preparation for a distance race of merely as a part of a runner’s endeavor to add more mileage to their running.

Regardless of your reason or reasons for running great distances, here are some tips on how to avoid injury on long runs.

Be patient with your body as you gradually build Read the rest of this entry »

Hydration, a healthy diet and consistent exercise are all components of maintaining optimum health, and they all work in tandem.

Hydration is especially critical to ensure that your body functions properly and flushes toxins and drenches your cells. The importance before, during and after exercise is particularly important for an energized workout session with great performance and results.

Here are some essential tips on staying hydrated while you exercise:

Studies have shown that people who eat a well-balanced diet are more likely to reach their fitness goals. Bananas are a great snack that you should consider eating before and after you exercise. Bananas are a great source of potassium and fiber. They are also rich in complex carbohydrates, which can give you that energy boost that you need to get through your workout. Furthermore, bananas are a great source of vitamin B6, which can help reduce muscle cramps.

You should Read the rest of this entry »

You don’t have to stop exercising if you have bad knees. From calf raises to inner-thigh leg lifts, there are many different exercise activities you can do to strengthen your knees.

Calf Raises

Stand behind a chair with your feet slightly apart. Begin the exercise by lifting your heels off the floor. Hold your heels up for a few seconds and then slowly lower them back down.

Step-ups

To complete a step-up, lift your right foot onto a stair. Bring your left foot up and tap the stair. Immediately lower your left foot back to the floor.

Straight-Leg Raises

Lean Read the rest of this entry »