Saturday, May 29, 2010

Boston Celtics Strength Coach demonstrates the TRX row:

A great way to strengthen the mid and upper back for increased strength and better posture.  Great exercise for prevention of shoulder injuries.



Saturday, April 03, 2010

Posture Training with the TRX:

This is a simple but effective to work on your posture and help prevent the rounded shoulders look that can happen when you spend too much time sitting in front of the computer or just too much sitting, period.



If you haven't done much resistance training before, this is a nice way to learn how to do this row correctly, by focusing on the finish position first.  I would also recommend that you work on your thoracic spine mobility with diaphragmatic (stomach) breathing.  You can find examples of that elsewhere on this blog.

Get moving!

Brian Morgan

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Simple Posture Exercises for Baby Boomers:

Here are some simple exercises to help with posture.  They can also be used as part of a warmup prior to exercise.  If you've been sitting at a desk all day long you especially need to do these.

Developing upper and mid-back strength is also a great way to help prevent osteoporosis and the rounded look that we often associate with aging - proper stretching and strengthening is the best way to reduce the risk of rounded shoulders.





The TRX is a great piece of equipment that can easily be used at home or on the road, if traveling. 

Monday, January 04, 2010

Exercise Helps Older Adults Improve Elasticity in Their Arteries:

Three months of physical activity can help those with type 2 diabetes increase the elasticity in their arteries - reducing their risk of heart disease and stroke.  This study looked at those between 65 and 83 who also had high blood pressure.

The exercise group used treadmills and stationary bikes three times a week for 60 minutes, working at 70% of their max heart rate.  The previously sedentary individuals completed three months of exercise, compared to the control group who did no exercise.  (source - Science Daily)

Walking is something simple that can be done by most anyone.  Different forms of dancing or Tai Chi has also been suggested as a way to keep seniors moving and increase their levels of physical activity.  Group classes can add an important social component and add some fun, as well.

I would also suggest some strength training to help support the joints and keep the bones strong.  Strength usually decreases with age, particularly for those who are sedentary.  Adequate strength levels can help keep your mobility as you age.

I recently had an 84 year old gentleman come in for a few exercise sessions and he was able to do more than you might think.  This also showed that in many cases it really is a matter of "move it or lose it."  If you want to try to maintain physical function as you age you need to be proactive in your approach. 

Get moving!

Brian Morgan