SparkPeople’s Exercise Reference Guides offer an in-depth look at the principles of fitness.
Stretching comes naturally to all of us. You might notice that if you have been sitting in a particular position for a long time, you stretch unco... Read more
When you think about working out—or even see it on TV, in movies, or at your own gym—does stretching come to mind? Probably not.
Stretching is easily ignored, even in commercials for gyms. Yet it's an important part of any fitnes... Read more
When I tell people that I'm a master Pilates trainer, I get a lot of interesting reactions. People who practice and love Pilates are quick to ask their burning questions or express their envy at my "dream" job. But many people who are l... Read more
When you first start making room for healthy habits in your busy life, being a stickler can be beneficial—setting a workout schedule, planning your meals in advance, saying no to things that get in the way of your goals. Without giving yo... Read more
Yoga, which comes from the Sanskrit yuj word meaning "union," originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. There are many forms of yoga, but in general, yoga focuses on breathing techniques (pranayama), postures (asanas), flexibility, and... Read more
I track my net carbs in my nutrition tracker, but today I noticed it was miscalculating today's net carbs. As of right now I have 28 grams total carbs and 11 grams fiber, which should be 17 grams net carbs, but the tracker is showing 21 grams net car... Read more
I went away for a little mini vacation this weekend. I got hours of slower pace walking in on Saturday. But, Sunday morning, I got up early and hit the hotel's fitness center. I got in a good treadmill work out and was so proud of myself for provi... Read more
Since last night, I have been unable to use my SP mobile app on my iphone. I have used this daily for the last three years and now it doesn't recognize my user name or password. However, it just tells me to go to the app store and repurchase the app... Read more
This is the longest I have commited to not just a diet, but a life change. It's been about a month, and I have made great strides. I have lost 9 lbs., which feels great! More importantly though, I am feeling better about myself. I have given into tem... Read more
I was watching Dr. Oz Friday (after I worked out) and he had a personal trainer on there. He was talking about an easy way to find out how many calories you burn daily, without exercise. He said that you take your weight and multiply it by 12. The an... Read more
I find something that really makes cardio exercise much more enjoyable is to first improve flexibility, then strength, and then increase cardio.... Read more
Working nights and getting home late, I sometimes find it hard to sleep. I've taken to putting my yoga mat out next to my bed before I go to work. When I get home, instead of sitting on the couch watching TV until I'm tired enough to sleep, I get in... Read more
Anyone who does activities with their dogs, does volunteer or professional work pertaining to dogs, or just loves dogs, etc. Where we encourage laughter and participation.... Read more
Last week I started a new series about my Journey Back to a Fitter Me. I’m trying to get back on track after having my third child, and I’m hoping that anyone who’s struggling to start and maintain a regular fitness routine wi... Read more
Although not everyone agrees about when to stretch, how long to stretch or what to stretch, most people include stretching as a regular part of their exercise routine. Research has shown that flexibility and range of motion decrease as we age. Regu... Read more
Do you feel tired, cranky and hungry in the afternoon at work? Take advantage of your workspace, and put pep in your step with these energy boosting tips!
