Warm Ups For Cold Weather Workouts

Warm Ups For Cold Weather Workouts

by | Dec 27, 2017 | All, Exercises, Fitness, Home, Workouts

Well the weather outside is frightful… but don’t let that deter you from your winter workout routine! It’s important that when the weather gets cold and frosty you take the time to properly warm up your body before jumping into your training. Warm-ups can help improve performance and reduce risk of injury1, especially when the weather is cold and your muscles feel tighter than normal.

Some helpful tips for warming yourself up before starting your workout include:

  1. Bring your warmup and workout routine into the gym! Staying indoors will help keep your core body temperature at a higher level than if you were to go on an outdoor run. (Find an LA Fitness near you, here!)
  2. A quick 15-minute run on the treadmill or warmup on the bike.
  3. Jumping jacks.
  4. Dynamic stretches such as walking lunges, leg swings and arm circles (read more about the benefits of stretching here).
  5. Take a dip in our 25-meter heated lap pools, or get your body feeling nice and relaxed in one of our relaxing saunas.*
  6. Squats, squats and more squats. The burn of that exercise sticks around all year.
  7. Walking. Simply taking a walk around the gym, your home, or a track can help warm up your muscles by getting them moving. Add in upper body stretches while you’re walking

Andrea Fradkin, an associate professor of exercise science at Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania, suggests that for every 10°F drop below 30°F you extend your pre-workout warmup by five minutes.2  While not all regions experience extreme drops in temperatures, it’s important to keep in mind that even a slight drop in temperature can still be a shock when your body isn’t used to it.

Did You Know?

According to Gerald Endress, an exercise physiologist and fitness director at the Duke University Diet and Fitness Center, the ideal temperature for working out is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.3 However, personal preferences may impact this.

How to Dress

It may go without being said that cold weather calls for warmer clothes. Even though you may be gearing up for a sweaty workout, be sure to dress in layers so you can remove the extra clothing when your temperature rises, and then add it back on when your core body temperature cools. If you’re opting for an outdoor workout, consider wearing protective gear for your face, ears, hands and feet. When dressing in layers, try wearing a synthetic material, something that will wick away moisture from your skin.4 The second layer should help insulate, think a fleece or wool layer, and the third layer should be a breathable/waterproof material (depending on outdoor conditions). Use your best judgment contingent on the weather, and take into account whether you are working out indoors or outdoors.

To find an LA Fitness near you, click here, and avoid the outdoor chill.

*Amenities vary by location.

Sources:

  1. O’Mara, Kelly. “The Art of Warming Up in Cold Weather | MapMyRun.” Under Armour, 8 Aug. 2017, blog.mapmyrun.com/art-warming-cold-weather/.
  2. Ibid
  3. George, Shannon. “Is It Better to Workout in the Cold or Hot?” LIVESTRONG.COM, Leaf Group, 11 Sept. 2017, www.livestrong.com/article/423074-is-it-better-to-workout-in-the-cold-or-hot/.
  4. Schwecherl, Laura. “When Is It Too Cold to Exercise Outside?” Greatist, Greatist, 6 June 2016, greatist.com/fitness/it-safe-exercise-cold.

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Member Spotlight | The Breaking Point

Member Spotlight | The Breaking Point

by | Dec 18, 2017 | All, Fitness, Home, Member Stories

Tyler I., December 2013

It was a day like any other. Tyler I., of Brookhaven, PA, was getting ready for work, sitting on the couch and tying his boots just like every other morning. However, on this particular day when Tyler stood up to finish getting ready, he found himself out of breath from simply tying his shoes. This was his breaking point. At only 22-years-old, Tyler was 6’1” and weighed 365 lbs., suffered from joint pain and high blood pressure, and was borderline diabetic. When Tyler realized how out of breath he was from tying his shoes, he knew things needed to change. Tyler shared that the change didn’t start a couple days later, or a week later, it started that day. He committed himself to a complete lifestyle change.

Tyler began educating himself on how the body works. He read about macronutrients and how the body processes calories in versus calories out. (Read more about macronutrients here.) He wisely estimated his maximum caloric intake based on his body and began to carefully create a meal plan for himself. While this took care of the nutrition part of things, Tyler now needed to focus on the exercise portion. He joined LA Fitness in March of 2017, and began doing 25 minutes of cardio per day, 7 days a week, with very minimal weight lifting. His initial goal was to get rid of his fat first and then begin building muscle.

“The change didn’t start a couple days later, a week later, it started that day.”

Tyler I.

LA Fitness Member

Slowly over time, Tyler increased the time he spent on cardio. His two favorite cardio machines were the elliptical and Stairmaster, which he said really helped him “feel the burn”! Towards the end of an 8-month period, Tyler was spending up to 3 hours per day in the gym and was down 150 lbs.! He now weighed 215 lbs.,  and he was proud of the change he had made. While he was satisfied with the weight he had lost, Tyler now decided it was time to start building some lean muscle. This was the hardest part for him. Up until now, Tyler had enjoyed watching the numbers on the scale continually drop. However, as Tyler had learned, in order to gain muscle, he needed to increase his calorie consumption! It seemed completely counterintuitive to what Tyler had been doing prior, but he knew it was something he had to overcome in order to obtain the results he desired.

“The human mind is a very, very powerful thing. Once you fully understand the power your brain holds, you will truly realize your potential. When you are truly dedicated to something, you can and will make it happen. You cannot be half in and half out. With full dedication towards your goals, anything is possible. Set a goal, don’t lose focus and keep going until you achieve that goal. You may hit roadblocks along the way, keep pushing through them and come out stronger!”

Tyler I.

LA Fitness Member

Tyler began getting serious about his weight training, and to this day, continues working out 7 days a week in order to achieve his future goal of competing in a fitness competition – and we believe in him! Tyler never dreamed that at 365 lbs., with a long list of health issues, he’d be where he is today. His relentless drive helped push him to accomplish his goals and build a healthy future for himself. Not only has Tyler turned his life around, but he acts as an inspiration to many who hope to do the same. As Tyler shared, “…with the right mindset, anything is possible!”

 

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Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

by | Dec 13, 2017 | All, Fitness, Home

“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Poet

It feels good to feel comfortable, right? It’s safe, it’s familiar, and in that state of comfort nothing changes – but is that a good thing?

There is a saying that states, “Great things never came from comfort zones” (Author Unknown), so why limit yourself to a life of mediocrity? That may be tough to swallow, but it’s the words that many who want to make a change need to hear. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary; however, challenging yourself helps push you further than you ever could imagine.

Now take a moment to reflect upon something you’ve wanted to change, improve upon, or take a risk on in your life – let’s make it a reality. The fact is, many of us want to make changes for the better, but it’s hard taking that first step. As part of the LA Fitness family, you are surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals all working towards personal improvements of their own. You are not alone in the journey.

Everyone Has a Story

The you today will not be the same you 5 years from now, and that’s a good thing! Push yourself daily to become a better you than the day before, and you’ll be proud looking back at how far you’ve come. However, it’s easier said than done. The fear of the unknown can hold you back from experiencing some of the greatest moments you can imagine, and accomplishing more than you ever thought possible, but we’re here to say: it can be done.

  1. Get to the gym.
  2. Stay motivated.
  3. Keep your goals close, and your reasons for wanting to accomplish them even closer.
  4. Track your progress.
  5. Don’t let small setbacks discourage you.
  6. Celebrate success.

If you feel like you could use a little extra motivation, consider signing up for a training session with one of our Pro Results® personal trainers.* They can help answer your PT-related questions, assist in designing a customized workout plan for you, and provide ongoing motivation and support.

However, if you’re not quite ready to set up a PT appointment, or you just feel more comfortable working out on your own, you can still benefit from the support of your fellow LA Fitness community. Share your Commit to Fit goals with us for a chance to be featured on Living Healthy! Regardless of where you are at on your journey to becoming a healthier and more fit you, we believe in you.

Already an LA Fitness member? Do you feel like encouraging a friend or family member to join you on your path to success? Send them a 14-day guest pass here.

*Personal training services require an additional agreement and are subject to additional fees.

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Which Apple is Better For You, Red or Green?

Which Apple is Better For You, Red or Green?

by | Dec 6, 2017 | All, Home, Nutrition | 1 comment

Aristotle questioned human behavior, Einstein questioned the rules of relativity, and Edison questioned electricity. Today, we are questioning nutrition – fruit, to be specific. Are red or green apples healthier for you? Is there a difference? Does having an apple a day really keep the doctor away? We dive headfirst into this important debate.

The apple is a fruit that is often taken for granted. Offered in almost all grocery stores and farmers’ markets year-round, these tasty nutritious treats provide a host of health benefits. Let’s take a closer look.

In general, apples can help with:

  • Weight loss – Apples are high in fiber and water, which can help you feel more full. In a study of obese mice, those that were given a supplement of ground apples and apple juice concentrate not only lost more weight but also had lower levels of “bad” cholesterol, triglycerides and total cholesterol than the control group.1
  • Heart Health – There is a link between consuming apples and a lowered risk of heart disease. Not only are they “high in soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol, [but] they also have polyphenols, which are linked to lower blood pressure and stroke risk.”2
  • Lowered Risk of Type 2 Diabetes – Due to the polyphenol antioxidant content of apples, they’re thought to help prevent tissue damage to beta cells in the pancreas.3 These cells produce insulin for the body, and oftentimes they are damaged in people with type 2 diabetes. A deeper look into the study can be found here.
  • Good Tummy Bacteria – The type of fiber found in apples (pectin) acts as a prebiotic, helping to promote good bacteria in the belly.4
  • Better Cognitive Function – Multiple studies conducted have shown that apple juice may help prevent the deterioration of neurotransmitters involved in the memory. This is especially important because low levels of acetylcholine, a type of neurotransmitter, have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, so drink up that apple juice!

 

The Great Debate: Red vs. Green

  • Red apples tend to have more antioxidants than green, but the difference is small.5
  • Red apples offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • On the other hand, “green apples may contain slightly more fiber and fewer carbohydrates and sugar than red apples.”6
  • Green apples have more of a tart taste. Red apples tend to taste sweeter.

The fact is both red and green apples are a good nutritious option. The differences are very slight, so red apple fans and green apple fans rejoice! The overall health benefits of apples, regardless of color, are many. The age-old saying, “an apple a day,” really may keep the doctor away.

What are your nutrition-related questions? Submit your best by clicking here!

Leave us a comment in the box below with your apple preference! Which will come out on top – red or green?

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

Sources:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23909905
  2. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-apples
  3. Ibid
  4. Ibid
  5. http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2017/05/16/is-there-a-nutritional-difference-between-red-and-green-apples_a_22088567/
  6. Ibid

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How to Get Your Kids to Eat Right

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If you’re a parent, it’s likely you have some picky eaters on your hands. Our Registered Dietician, Debbie James, gives you the scoop on healthy eating for your kids and teens.

Member Spotlight | Overcoming Heartbreak

Member Spotlight | Overcoming Heartbreak

by | Dec 4, 2017 | All, Community, Home, Member Stories

Have you ever suffered from a heartbreak? Meet Tyler G. of Dallas, TX, who found himself at an all-time low after his 7-year relationship came to a brutal end. He felt completely lost and suffered from overwhelming depression and anxiety. Tyler became so insecure with himself, that he didn’t know what to do – until he came to the point where he knew he had to change, take action, and gain control of his life again. That’s what brought him through the doors of LA Fitness back in December of 2016.

From Negative to Positive

At the start of Tyler’s fitness journey, he weighed in at 250 lbs. with a size 40 waist. Performing everyday tasks started to become challenging, and he was ready to change that. Tyler noticed that the more he stepped into the gym and trained, the more he started to see his body change, and not only that, but his mind started to transform too. He began eating healthier foods and substituted all the negatives he faced with positives. He fell in love with the process and soon found himself going to the store and checking the nutrition facts on everything he was buying. His diet started consisting of high protein, healthy carbs, and plenty of veggies. Not only that, but Tyler cut out all fried foods, fast food, sodas and sugar that he was used to. He had become determined to change the way he looked and felt, and he wasn’t about to give up

“The body is a very fascinating being, and you can literally transform the way you look, by exercising and eating healthy […] once the process starts to unfold you will fall in love with the lifestyle.”

Tyler G.

LA Fitness Member

A Whole New Life

Tyler trains every day now, sometimes even twice a day. He has learned that taking control of his own health and exercising regularly can help benefit so much, both mentally and physically. Since beginning his fitness journey with LA Fitness, Tyler has gained a passion for fitness and healthy living. He hopes to take what he’s learned and use it to help inspire and motivate others to do the same. Every time Tyler steps into the gym, he sees it as a battle he holds against himself. He put it as, “it’s me vs. me and I’m never going to lose, and after my workout I just feel so satisfied.” Tyler now weighs 180 lbs. and says that his size 32 shorts are now a little loose!

“It has totally changed my whole life. I have gained self-confidence in myself to believe I can do anything I set my mind to. The gym has allowed me to overcome so much adversity in my life, and I am so thankful for that. It has given me peace in my life, and for me that is the ultimate achievement.”

Tyler G.

LA Fitness Member

The Future

Tyler plans to keep pushing himself and learning more about himself through a consistent training regimen. He hopes to soon enter a physique competition and perhaps one day become a sponsored athlete. Tyler also hopes to one day become a trainer and use his own personal success story to inspire and help change others for the better.

This article is not meant to be construed as medical or nutritional advice. Consult with your physician before beginning a new fitness or dietary regimen.

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