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<channel><title><![CDATA[Ageless Fitness - Blog]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog]]></link><description><![CDATA[Blog]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 21:41:35 -0700</pubDate><generator>Weebly</generator><item><title><![CDATA[Training for Longevity: How Ageless exercise is different from standard programs]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/training-for-longevity-how-ageless-exercise-is-different-from-standard-programs]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/training-for-longevity-how-ageless-exercise-is-different-from-standard-programs#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 04 Oct 2024 23:10:58 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/training-for-longevity-how-ageless-exercise-is-different-from-standard-programs</guid><description><![CDATA[&#8203;When it comes to fitness, most people are familiar with the concept of working out to achieve specific short-term goals: shedding a few pounds, building muscle, or preparing for a vacation. While these are all worthy goals, a growing movement within the fitness industry is encouraging a shift in focus&mdash;one that&rsquo;s aimed at ensuring a long, healthy life. This is the essence of exercise with a longevity focus, and it&rsquo;s significantly different from your typical fitness progra [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">&#8203;When it comes to fitness, most people are familiar with the concept of working out to achieve specific short-term goals: shedding a few pounds, building muscle, or preparing for a vacation. While these are all worthy goals, a growing movement within the fitness industry is encouraging a shift in focus&mdash;one that&rsquo;s aimed at ensuring a long, healthy life. This is the essence of exercise with a longevity focus, and it&rsquo;s significantly different from your typical fitness program.</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font size="7" color="#8d2424">The Marathon of Life</font></h2>  <span class='imgPusher' style='float:right;height:0px'></span><span style='display: table;width:auto;position:relative;float:right;max-width:100%;;clear:right;margin-top:19px;*margin-top:38px'><a><img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/untitled-design-1.png?1728084234" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; border-width:1px;padding:3px; max-width:100%" alt="Picture" class="galleryImageBorder wsite-image" /></a><span style="display: table-caption; caption-side: bottom; font-size: 90%; margin-top: -10px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;" class="wsite-caption"></span></span> <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;display:block;">Imagine that you're preparing for a marathon. Training for a marathon isn&rsquo;t about how fast you can sprint the first mile or how much you can lift in a single session. Instead, it's about pacing yourself, building endurance, and taking care of your body so it can sustain peak performance for the entire race. Now, apply that same principle to life. Exercise with a longevity focus is not about quick fixes or intense short-term training&mdash;it&rsquo;s about building a body that can carry you gracefully through the marathon of life.<br />&#8203;<br />While a standard fitness program might emphasize aesthetics, sports performance, or specific short-term gains, <strong>Ageless Fitness prioritizes preserving and improving your overall health for the </strong><strong>long term</strong>. It&rsquo;s about maintaining strength, mobility, and resilience as you age, so you can live independently and avoid preventable health issues.</div> <hr style="width:100%;clear:both;visibility:hidden;"></hr>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font size="7" color="#8d2424">The Ageless Difference</font></h2>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Sustainability vs. Immediate Goals</h2>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <span class='imgPusher' style='float:left;height:0px'></span><span style='display: table;width:auto;position:relative;float:left;max-width:100%;;clear:left;margin-top:0px;*margin-top:0px'><a><img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/untitled-design.png?1728084285" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; border-width:1px;padding:3px; max-width:100%" alt="Picture" class="galleryImageBorder wsite-image" /></a><span style="display: table-caption; caption-side: bottom; font-size: 90%; margin-top: -10px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;" class="wsite-caption"></span></span> <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;display:block;">A standard fitness program might be built around achieving rapid results&mdash;perhaps hitting a weight loss goal in 30 days or preparing for a one-time event like a race or competition. These programs can often be intense, pushing the body to its limits in the short term. While they might help you lose weight quickly or achieve a short-term fitness goal, they often don't focus on the long-term consequences for your health.&nbsp;<br />&#8203;<br />Exercise for longevity, on the other hand, is about <strong>creating sustainable habits</strong> that your body can maintain over the years. It&rsquo;s not just about looking good in a few weeks&mdash;it&rsquo;s about still being able to move freely and without pain 20 or 30 years from now. Longevity training isn&rsquo;t just a sprint to a temporary goal; it&rsquo;s a marathon designed to keep you moving through every phase of life.</div> <hr style="width:100%;clear:both;visibility:hidden;"></hr>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Functional Strength and Mobility</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Many standard exercise programs tend to emphasize isolated movements&mdash;think bicep curls or leg presses. While these exercises have their benefits, longevity-focused programs prioritize functional strength and mobility. Functional exercises mimic everyday movements like squatting, reaching, and pulling, ensuring that the body can handle the physical demands of daily life, even as it ages.<br /><br />For example, rather than just focusing on lifting as much weight as possible, a <strong>longevity-focused program</strong> will incorporate exercises that <strong>enhance balance, flexibility, and range of motion</strong>. This helps prevent falls, which is a leading cause of injury in older adults, and keeps joints healthy and mobile.</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Joint Health and Recovery</h2>  <span class='imgPusher' style='float:right;height:0px'></span><span style='display: table;width:auto;position:relative;float:right;max-width:100%;;clear:right;margin-top:3px;*margin-top:6px'><a><img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/untitled-design-2.png?1728084567" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; border-width:1px;padding:3px; max-width:100%" alt="Picture" class="galleryImageBorder wsite-image" /></a><span style="display: table-caption; caption-side: bottom; font-size: 90%; margin-top: -10px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;" class="wsite-caption"></span></span> <div class="paragraph" style="display:block;">Fitness programs often focus on pushing your body to the max&mdash;burning as many calories as possible or lifting the heaviest weights. While this can build muscle and endurance quickly, it can also put <strong>a lot of stress on your joints</strong> and connective tissues, increasing the risk of injury, especially as we age.&nbsp;<br /><br /><strong>Ageless Fitness aims to strengthen the muscles that support your joints without overloading them.</strong> Proper recovery is essential in longevity training, as the body&rsquo;s ability to recover from intense physical exertion decreases with age. Incorporating adequate rest, gentle stretching, and even activities like yoga or tai chi ensures that the body remains resilient over time.</div> <hr style="width:100%;clear:both;visibility:hidden;"></hr>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Holistic Wellness</h2>  <div class="paragraph">Standard exercise programs can sometimes be hyper-focused on just one aspect of fitness, such as strength or cardio. While these are important, <strong>Ageless takes a more holistic approach</strong> by emphasizing the importance of balance across multiple domains of health. It combines elements of strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance training to create a well-rounded routine that supports the body's overall well-being.<br /><br />Moreover, longevity-focused exercise often integrates other healthy lifestyle factors like nutrition, stress management, and sleep quality into the program. <strong>It&rsquo;s not just about what you do in the gym&mdash;it&rsquo;s about how you live your life outside of it to ensure you stay healthy in the long run.</strong></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font size="7" color="#8d2424">The Ageless Fitness Way</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph">&#8203;At Ageless Fitness, we take pride in helping people train not just for the present, but for the future. We understand that health isn&rsquo;t a short race&mdash;it&rsquo;s a lifelong journey, and our programs are designed to keep you moving, active, and independent for years to come.<br />Our programs emphasize functional fitness, joint health, balance, and mobility. It's never too soon or too late to start training for the marathon of life. Our certified professionals work with you to create a personalized plan that considers your unique health and fitness goals.&nbsp;<br /><br />The benefits of Ageless Fitness are immense. From improving your overall quality of life to preventing chronic conditions. With an Ageless mindset, you are ensuring your body stays strong, resilient, and ready for whatever life throws your way!<br /><span></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Active vs. Passive Stretching]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/active-vs-passive-stretching]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/active-vs-passive-stretching#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 08 May 2023 23:06:45 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/active-vs-passive-stretching</guid><description><![CDATA[By Kyle Geary  Types of Stretching  What is the difference between the two, and is one better than another?&nbsp;&nbsp;Active stretching&nbsp;is defined as using your own muscles to provide resistance.&nbsp; More specifically, you are contracting muscles to stretch other muscles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Passive stretching&nbsp;is defined as using external forces to stretch your muscles instead of your own ability.&nbsp; Examples of external forces could be a towel, a fitness strap, or a partner assisting wit [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">By Kyle Geary</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">Types of Stretching</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span>What is the difference between the two, and is one better than another?&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/active-stretching/" target="_blank"><font color="#8d2424">Active stretching</font></a><span>&nbsp;is defined as using your own muscles to provide resistance.&nbsp; More specifically, you are contracting muscles to stretch other muscles.&nbsp;<font color="#2a2a2a">&nbsp;</font></span><a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/passive-stretching/" target="_blank"><font color="#8d2424">Passive stretching</font></a><span>&nbsp;is defined as using external forces to stretch your muscles instead of your own ability.&nbsp; Examples of external forces could be a towel, a fitness strap, or a partner assisting with the stretch.&nbsp; Both active and passive stretching are great ways to increase mobility and flexibility, so depending on your accessibility to accessory equipment (ex: towel, fitness strap) and/or a stretching partner can help guide your reasoning to utilize either active or passive stretching techniques.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/man-stretching.png?1683589571" alt="Picture" style="width:510;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">The Science of Stretching</font></h2>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:63.895781637717%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph">One&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4668158/" target="_blank"><font color="#8d2424">study</font></a>&nbsp;examined the immediate effects of passive and active stretching on hamstrings flexibility, and found that the passive stretching group showed a significant improvement in flexibility compared to the active stretching group.<br /><br />Another&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15330693/" target="_blank"><font color="#8d2424">study</font></a>&nbsp;looking at differences between passive and active stretching of hip flexor muscles in subjects with limited hip extension found that both techniques were equally effective in increasing range of motion.&nbsp; However, it was stated that it is still unknown if both passive and active stretching improve the flexibility of other muscle groups and whether active stretching improves the function of the antagonist muscles.<br /><br /></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:36.104218362283%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/man-stretching-2.png?1683589681" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:38.709677419355%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:left"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/editor/man-stretching-1.png?1683589539" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:61.290322580645%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><span>Lastly, a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation.aspx?paperid=74887" target="_blank"><font color="#8d2424">study</font></a><span>&nbsp;observed the effectiveness of a 12-week program of active and passive stretching in improving low back and neck pain in Japanese sedentary men.&nbsp; It was found that although both passive and active stretching produced acute benefits of improved lower back and neck pain symptoms,&nbsp;</span><u>only passive stretching performed with the assistance of a trainer</u><span>, produced long-term effects and benefits in decreasing physical and mental indices of lower back and neck pain.</span><br /><br /><span>If you have access to accessory equipment (ex: towel, fitness strap) and/or a stretching partner, passive stretching may yield the best long-term results, however, both active and passive stretching are great ways to increase mobility and flexibility.</span></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph">If you are interested in working with an Ageless Fitness trainer, find your <a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/locations.html">local Ageless Fitness</a> and request a consultation appointment with a trainer. Ageless Fitness locations can work with you to find the best stretching routine to meet your goals!&nbsp;<br /><br />If you have any questions, contact us through the button below and we will be happy to follow up with you.<br /></div>  <div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/contact.html" > <span class="wsite-button-inner">contact us</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[5 ways a personal trainer helps you]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/5-ways-a-personal-trainer-helps-you]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/5-ways-a-personal-trainer-helps-you#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 16 Sep 2022 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/5-ways-a-personal-trainer-helps-you</guid><description><![CDATA[Starting a new exercise program can come with some of the same feelings we have when starting any new routine. There can be nerves, excitement, curiosity, or hesitation. Teaming up with a trainer is a great way to prioritize your health and create lifelong healthy habits. Read more to learn about the top 5 ways an Ageless Fitness trainer can help you.   	 		 			 				 					 						  1. Safety Matters  Ageless Fitness trainers are specialists in movement safety and biomechanics.&nbsp;A trainer can  [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">Starting a new exercise program can come with some of the same feelings we have when starting any new routine. There can be nerves, excitement, curiosity, or hesitation. Teaming up with a trainer is a great way to prioritize your health and create lifelong healthy habits. Read more to learn about the top 5 ways an Ageless Fitness trainer can help you.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">1. Safety Matters</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph">Ageless Fitness trainers are specialists in movement safety and biomechanics.&nbsp;A trainer can lead you step-by-step and show you how to perform your exercises safely and effectively. We also&nbsp;<span>intentionally left out the complex and confusing machinery to allow our trainers to focus more on form and movement techniques.</span>&nbsp;Proper form is one of the most fundamental building blocks when beginning an exercise program.</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/untitled-design-15_orig.png" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph">A majority of exercise related injuries are associated with overuse and <a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/why-are-we-always-asked-to-keep-our-backs-straight-when-exercising" target="_blank">improper form</a>. Safe exercise often means performing each movement with control versus initiating the movements with momentum.&nbsp;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">2. Accountability</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span>A personal trainer is your accountability partner. Most people will stick to an exercise program&nbsp;</span><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30813926/" target="_blank">they find enjoyable.</a><span>&nbsp;Ageless Fitness trainers work with you to design programs that are fun, unique, and the just right level of challenging.</span></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/untitled-1450-1080-px_orig.png" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph">Sometimes it can feel easy to convince yourself to skip a day of exercise, but a trainer can help you stick to your schedule. We value client-trainer relationships, and your trainer is someone who will get to know you and the best ways you find motivation.&nbsp; A trainer is not a coach who barks instructions at you. Your trainer will work with you to make sure your program feels right for you.&nbsp;</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">3. Keeping things interesting</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph">Personal trainers are skilled in maintaining an appropriate amount of variation and novelty in your program. This means you won't be doing the same exercises every session, and it helps to keep things fun and interesting. Your program will grow and evolve with you.&nbsp;<br /><br />Some elements of your fitness program may include some games, timed challenges, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28910814/" target="_blank">functional training</a>, and neuromotor exercises. We strive to keep things new and fresh so you continue to grow with your trainer.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;"><font color="#8d2424">4. Track your progress</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span>Trainers also help you set goals and monitor your progress towards achieving those goals.&nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br /><span>Sometimes it is hard to notice the changes in ourselves, but your trainer is there to recognize your progress and celebrate your wins with you! help you stick to your goals.</span></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/untitled-design-16_orig.png" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>Your first appointment at Ageless Fitness will include an in-depth discussion of your exercise and health history, range of motion assessments, and some measurements related to your goals. We do this to get a baseline measurement to begin tracking your progress.&nbsp;</span></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">5. Celebrate your wins!&nbsp;</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph">Your personal trainer is there for you on the great days <em>and&nbsp;</em>on the not-so-great days. One of the best things about working with a trainer is the consistency of a person who is there to cheer you on. A trainer pushes you to meet your goals, and celebrates every win along the way. No matter how big or how small, your trainer will be cheering you on and championing for your progress.&nbsp;<br /><br />These celebrations can be a high-five after a tough set, or a congratulatory message when you meet a goal. At Ageless Fitness, we celebrate you in every phase of your journey.</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">Finding the right trainer for you:</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph">To find an Ageless Fitness location near you, head to our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/locations.html">Locations</a>&nbsp;page and select your state.<br /><br />Not seeing an Ageless Fitness in your area yet? Head over to <a href="http://agelessfit.us" target="_blank">AgelessFit.us</a> to learn more about our franchise and how you can bring our one-of-a-kind service to your community!</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[What is the best way to stretch?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/what-is-the-best-way-to-stretch]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/what-is-the-best-way-to-stretch#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 10 Feb 2020 18:45:04 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/what-is-the-best-way-to-stretch</guid><description><![CDATA[Ageless Fitness Tips for Flexibility Training  By Julie Pollard   	 		 			 				 					 						          					 								 					 						  &#8203;I get a lot of questions from my clients about stretching. During our one-on-one training sessions, we always incorporate stretching and flexibility training into the program. Today, I want to address the most common questions we hear regarding stretching.&nbsp;   					 							 		 	   Why should I stretch?  When we think of exercising, we often think only of c [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 class="wsite-content-title">Ageless Fitness Tips for Flexibility Training</h2>  <div class="paragraph">By Julie Pollard</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/377783913.jpg?1581361574" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">&#8203;I get a lot of questions from my clients about stretching. During our one-on-one training sessions, we always incorporate stretching and flexibility training into the program. Today, I want to address the most common questions we hear regarding stretching.&nbsp;</font></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424"><strong>Why</strong> should I stretch?</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">When we think of exercising, we often think only of cardiovascular exercise and weight or resistance training. We rarely think about stretching as part of an exercise routine. However, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends including flexibility training 2-3 days&nbsp;</font><a href="https://www.athleticbusiness.com/health-fitness/acsm-issues-new-guidelines-on-exercise-quality-quantity.html"><font color="#2a2a2a">per week.</font></a><br /><br /><font color="#2a2a2a">Stretching helps <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/stretching/art-20047931" target="_blank">increase</a> blood flow to your muscles. Stretching also maintains (or improves) joint range of motion. Why have strong muscles and joints if you can't use them to the best of their ability?</font></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424"><strong>When </strong>should I stretch?</font></h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">You can incorporate stretching into your weekly routine at different times of the day. What&nbsp;<em>is</em>&nbsp;important is how warm you are when you stretch.&nbsp;<br /><br /><strong>Do not use static stretching as a warm-up to your exercise regimen.&nbsp;</strong><br /></font></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:10px;text-align:left"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/976603017.jpg?1581361652" alt="Picture" style="width:366;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a"><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/02/sports/playmagazine/112pewarm.html" target="_blank">Studies</a>&nbsp;have shown that static stretching prior to exercising can decrease your muscular strength by 30%. Static stretches are stretches like touching your toes or a standing quad stretch. Static stretching can also be something like a restorative yoga class. This type of stretching should be performed after exercise, but make sure to approach it gently.<br /><br /><strong>Warm muscles are more prone to injury from stretching.</strong></font><br /></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424"><strong>What </strong>should I stretch?</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">If you are new to stretching, focus on targeting all the major muscle groups. For the lower body, target your hamstrings, quads, calves. For the upper body, focus on stretching your shoulders, chest, arms, and neck.&nbsp;</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424"><strong>How</strong> should I stretch?</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">There are many different stretching techniques available. We may go into that in a later post, but here are a few pointers for your stretching practice:&nbsp;</font><ul><li><font color="#2a2a2a">Stretch in a gentle or friendly way. We usually recommend out of a scale of 1-10, you should aim for a&nbsp;4 or 5 in stretch discomfort.</font></li><li><font color="#2a2a2a">Hold each stretch for at least 15-30 seconds. Most resources recommend 30-60 seconds</font></li><li><font color="#2a2a2a">Aim to stretch both sides with a goal of symmetry. You may have a tighter side, that is perfectly n</font><font color="#2a2a2a">ormal!&nbsp;</font></li><li><strong><font color="#2a2a2a">Do not bounce</font></strong><font color="#2a2a2a">. Yes, Jane Fonda may look&nbsp;amazing when she bounces into her stretches, but you are placing your muscles at risk of straining. The rapid muscular contraction and release in a bouncing stretch can contribute to more muscular tightness.</font></li></ul></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Still not sure what to do?</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">If you want some help with your flexibility routine, we recommend consulting with an Ageless Fitness personal trainer to help you with form and techniques for safe stretching!&nbsp;</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[4 tips to stick to your 2020 goals]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/4-tips-to-stick-to-your-2020-goals]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/4-tips-to-stick-to-your-2020-goals#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 16 Jan 2020 19:27:05 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/4-tips-to-stick-to-your-2020-goals</guid><description><![CDATA[By Jenna Fields &amp; Julie Pollard   	 		 			 				 					 						          					 								 					 						  Happy New Year!  The Ageless Fitness team wishes you a very happy 2020! With the beginning of a new year, it's an exciting time to reflect on the past year and make new choices for the upcoming year. For most of us, beginning a new activity or re-kindling our motivation for exercise can be on the top of our lists for the new year. As we are finishing up our third week of 2020, we wanted to prov [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:justify;">By Jenna Fields &amp; Julie Pollard</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:left"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/527584151.jpg?1579723771" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><strong>Happy New Year!</strong></h2>  <div class="paragraph">The Ageless Fitness team wishes you a very happy 2020! With the beginning of a new year, it's an exciting time to reflect on the past year and make new choices for the upcoming year. For most of us, beginning a new activity or re-kindling our motivation for exercise can be on the top of our lists for the new year. As we are finishing up our third week of 2020, we wanted to provide you with 4 quick and easy tips on how to stick to your resolutions and create long-lasting healthy habits!&nbsp;</div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">1. Be kind to yourself</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph">Did you fall off the wagon a little bit? Don't fret! There is always time to start new or create a fresh habit. We often get caught in a cycle of guilt over what we did or did not do over the holidays. The truth is, nothing in nature grows in a perfectly straight line. It is okay to sway a little from your goals. What's important is taking a moment to realign your behaviors with your intentions.&nbsp;<br /><br />A simple way to do this is to write down your goals. Write them on a note card, in a journal, or put them on&nbsp; sticky note. Place your goals in a place you see often to remind you!<br /><br /><span><span>You can always start new goals! January 1st is not the only day of the year that you can make a new goal for yourself. Let&rsquo;s say a couple of weeks go by and you feel like you are not where you want to be, do not get discouraged! You are the captain of your own ship and over the time of year you do change! Modify your goals with yourself to help you stick with them. Don&rsquo;t be hard on yourself, if you want to change your goals, do it! Learn from your body, work with your body, and love your body and it will love you back!</span></span><br /><br /></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">2. Link your new habit to an old one</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph">It can be much easier to stick to a new routine if you tie it into an existing one. We talked about this a little in <a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/3-things-you-can-do-to-keep-your-resolutions" target="_blank">an earlier blog,</a>&nbsp;but i<span><span>t&rsquo;s much easier to build upon the habits you hold today compared to completely changing your ways! For instance, if you find yourself sitting on a couch to watch TV each night, and your goal is to &ldquo;get in shape,&rdquo; you could do sit ups or walk around during commercials. If you find yourself eating dessert after meals, you could swap your sweets, try a parfait instead of lava cake!&nbsp;</span></span>&#8203;</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">3. Baby Steps</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span><span>If you want to stick to your goals all year long, don&rsquo;t jump in all at once! Those new year's resolutions to go vegan, run every day, or drink 4 liters of water a day&nbsp; are all very attainable if taken in baby steps. Studies have shown that it takes anywhere from 18 days to 254 days to create a new habit. If you want to be doing all of these resolutions by the end of the year, maybe start with less advanced forms of your final goal, for example eat at least 1 vegetarian meal a day, go for jogs 2 to 3 times a week, or drink a glass of water in the morning or night.&nbsp;</span></span>&#8203;</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424">4. Stay Realistic</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span><span>In setting goals for yourself, be realistic in reaching for what you can accomplish. If you set a realistic goal and reach it, then you will be much more inclined to set a new goal for yourself. Accomplishing these smaller&nbsp; &ldquo;realistic goals&rdquo; will build upon themselves and carry you to places you never thought you would be! </span></span>&#8203;</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Which is better: Heavy weights or light weights?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/which-is-better-heavy-weights-or-light-weights]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/which-is-better-heavy-weights-or-light-weights#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 06 Dec 2019 19:06:05 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/which-is-better-heavy-weights-or-light-weights</guid><description><![CDATA[By Julie Pollard  3 tips to decide bet&#8203;ween heavy vs. light weights         1. The longstanding debate  Over the years, there has been much debate surrounding the weights we should use when we are exercising. Some people swear by using lighter weights between 2-10lbs, others pride themselves on lifting hundreds of pounds. But how do you know what is best for you?We will share with you the secret that can end this debate:&nbsp;      light weights are just as effective as heavy weights for r [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><font color="#000000">By Julie Pollard</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#8d2424" size="7">3 tips to decide bet<u>&#8203;</u>ween heavy vs. light weights</font></h2>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/804011335.jpg?1575659422" alt="Picture" style="width:531;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">1. The longstanding debate</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#000000">Over the years, there has been much debate surrounding the weights we should use when we are exercising. Some people swear by using lighter weights between 2-10lbs, others pride themselves on lifting hundreds of pounds. But how do you know what is best for you?</font><br /><br /><font color="#000000">We will share with you the secret that can end this debate:&nbsp;</font></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><font color="#2a2a2a">light weights are just as effective as heavy weights for resistance training.</font></strong><font color="#000000">&nbsp;</font><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7808251" target="_blank"><font color="#2a2a2a">It's been proven</font></a><font color="#000000">&nbsp;that the most important aspect of strength training is working your muscles to fatigue. This means exercising to where you feel a&nbsp;</font><a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/true-or-false-no-pain-no-gain" target="_blank">burn</a><font color="#000000">&nbsp;in the muscles or feel like you can't do another repetition.&nbsp;&#8203;</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">2. Your exercise goals</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#000000">Your exercise goals play the biggest role in deciding which weights to choose when you begin a resistance program. Different resistance amounts target different types of muscle fibers. Want to refresh your knowledge on the types of muscles our bodies? Check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/do-power-lifters-and-endurance-athletes-have-the-same-kind-of-muscles" target="_blank">&nbsp;blog post</a> about it.&nbsp;</font><br /><br /><strong><font color="#8d2424">Light Weights</font></strong><br /><font color="#000000">Light weights are best for targeting our endurance muscles, or <a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/do-power-lifters-and-endurance-athletes-have-the-same-kind-of-muscles" target="_blank">Type I muscle fibers</a>. Exercising with light weights helps people who have goals to tone their muscles or improve endurance. Endurance exercises can be useful for activities of daily living such as carrying items, walking, and going up stairs.</font><br /><br /><strong><font color="#8d2424">Heavy Weights</font></strong><br /><font color="#000000">Heavy weights are best for targeting our power muscles, or <a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/do-power-lifters-and-endurance-athletes-have-the-same-kind-of-muscles">Type II muscle fibers</a>. Exercising with heavy weights helps people who have goals to gain muscle or increase muscle mass. High resistance exercises can be useful for activities such as lifting heavy objects, getting up and down, moving quickly, or performing more physically demanding tasks.&nbsp;</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">3. Individual Ability</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#000000">Individual ability is an important consideration when choosing which weights to start with. If you are new to weight training, lighter weights might be a more comfortable transition. Light weights also allow more time to focus on form and safety techniques because your body is handling a more manageable load. Heavy weights require excellent form and safety techniques because at higher weights, there is <a href="https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/51/4/211" target="_blank">a greater risk of injury</a>. However, high-resistance weight training helps build more powerful muscles and more muscle mass.</font><br /></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Which one do I choose?</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#000000">It is important to take into consideration your goals, abilities, and exercise experience. Remember, you don't need to choose one or the other! Both types of resistance training are beneficial. If you would like to learn more about how to incorporate an effective resistance training program into your exercise routine, feel welcome to contact us at <a href="mailto:info@agelessfitsb.com">info@agelessfitsb.com</a> or call our office at <a href="tel:8058457277">(805)-845-7277</a>. Our exercise specialists would love to help you reach your goals!</font></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><font color="#8d2424">Ageless Fitness is expanding!</font></strong><font color="#000000"> If you are interested in bringing an Ageless Fitness to your area, read more about our </font><a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/franchise.html" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">franchise</a><font color="#000000">&nbsp;opportunities.&nbsp;</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[why are we always asked to keep our backs straight when exercising?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/why-are-we-always-asked-to-keep-our-backs-straight-when-exercising]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/why-are-we-always-asked-to-keep-our-backs-straight-when-exercising#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 28 Oct 2019 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/why-are-we-always-asked-to-keep-our-backs-straight-when-exercising</guid><description><![CDATA[ 	 		 			 				 					 						  By Juan Rodriguez  If you are wondering why trainers emphasize a lot on "keeping the back straight" during exercise, keep reading!&nbsp;Our backs have a very complex structural design that allow us to move in various directions. For instance, to pick up things off the floor or complex rotation exercises. We all have these abilities, but there are many things to be aware of when we exercise and add weight to these complex movements.         What allows our backs to wi [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:91.883116883117%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph">By Juan Rodriguez</div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">If you are wondering why trainers emphasize a lot on "keeping the back straight" during exercise, keep reading!&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">Our backs have a very complex structural design that allow us to move in various directions. For instance, to pick up things off the floor or complex rotation exercises. We all have these abilities, but there are many things to be aware of when we exercise and add weight to these complex movements.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/vertebra-posterolateral_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">What allows our backs to withstand different movements?&nbsp;</h2>  <div class="paragraph">Our vertebral column consists of various shapes and structures that allow our bodies to lift objects without collapsing and keeps us upright at all times. Our <a href="https://study.com/academy/lesson/muscles-of-the-vertebral-column-support-movement.html" target="_blank">muscles that surround our vertebral column</a> are constantly contracting to keep us balanced and stable when we are doing things like walking, running and even just standing quietly. Our vertebral <a href="https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ap1/chapter/the-vertebral-column/" target="_blank">column is connected together by ligaments</a> and has a structural design that allows each vertebral body to fit harmoniously. In between each vertebral body, we have cartilage (<a href="https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ap1/chapter/the-vertebral-column/" target="_blank">intervertebral discs</a>) that keeps our body from undergoing bone to bone contact when lifting, bending, or even just standing. All of the intervertebral discs are fluid filled structures that allow the vertebral bodies to move in various directions.&nbsp;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/back-posture.jpg?1572283558" alt="Picture" style="width:274;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#2a2a2a">Why is it bad to bend or stoop our backs?&nbsp;&#8203;</font></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">These</span><a href="https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ap1/chapter/the-vertebral-column/" target="_blank">&nbsp;intervertebral bodies compress&nbsp;</a><span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">when we bend, causing wear and tear to the structures' wall. Overtime, the structure may rupture and cause tremendous pain to the individual. Why so much pain? Well, when we damage the walls of the intervertebral disc, we no longer have enough room for our nerves to fit freely through the gaps (intervertebral foramen) throughout our spine, and we begin to squish our nerves. So, it is very important that we do not damage our back and we maintain proper posture to keep us from a back injury!&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:8.1168831168831%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph">&#8203;</div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph">Want to bring an Ageless Fitness to your area? We are franchising in 2020! If you are interested in bringing high quality training to people near you, please check out our <a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/franchise.html" target="_blank">Franchising</a> page.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Do power lifters and endurance athletes have the same kind of muscles ?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/do-power-lifters-and-endurance-athletes-have-the-same-kind-of-muscles]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/do-power-lifters-and-endurance-athletes-have-the-same-kind-of-muscles#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 17 Sep 2019 18:36:11 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/do-power-lifters-and-endurance-athletes-have-the-same-kind-of-muscles</guid><description><![CDATA[By: Juan Rodriguez         Did you ever wonder why some people can last a long time while exercising? Or why high intensity exercisers have the power they need for their challenging exercises? Our body is composed of a variety muscle fibers that work differently based on the activity that is being performed. &#8203;  Slow Twitch Muscle Fibers  Lets start with the slow twitch muscle fibers, also known as slow oxidative (SO) muscle fibers or type 1 muscle fibers. These fibers are highly used for e [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">By: Juan Rodriguez</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/screen-shot-2015-07-14-at-11-42-43-am.png?1568832190" alt="Picture" style="width:605;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98); font-weight:300">Did you ever wonder why some people can last a long time while exercising? Or why high intensity exercisers have the power they need for their challenging exercises? Our body is composed of a variety muscle fibers that work differently based on the activity that is being performed. </span>&#8203;</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Slow Twitch Muscle Fibers</h2>  <div class="paragraph">Lets start with the <a href="https://www.verywellfit.com/fast-and-slow-twitch-muscle-fibers-3120094" target="_blank">slow twitch muscle fibers</a>, also known as slow oxidative (SO) muscle fibers or type 1 muscle fibers. These fibers are highly used for endurance exercises and may provide up to <a href="https://alexanderfitness.wordpress.com/2015/07/08/nasm-chapter-13-resistance-training-concepts/" target="_blank">hours of energy</a>&nbsp;. Something to keep in mind is that these muscle fibers <a href="https://alexanderfitness.wordpress.com/2015/07/08/nasm-chapter-13-resistance-training-concepts/" target="_blank">contact very slowly </a>and cannot generate energy for fast performance. This means exercises that are mainly long in duration or high repetition in low weight-bearing exercises. Now you may wonder how people that run long periods of time are able to maintain that energy needed to keep going? Our bodies are composed of cells called <a href="https://sciencetrends.com/what-does-the-mitochondria-do/" target="_blank">Mitochondria</a> that produce the energy needed by breaking down sugar, fat and other chemicals with the assistance of oxygen. The more an endurance athlete trains, the <a href="https://opentextbc.ca/anatomyandphysiology/chapter/10-6-exercise-and-muscle-performance/#fig-ch10_06_01" target="_blank">more Mitochondria</a> they have and therefore, they may exercise for a longer time.&nbsp;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/published/384973242.jpg?1568836246" alt="Picture" style="width:466;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Fast Twitch Muscle Fibers&nbsp;</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><a href="https://www.verywellfit.com/fast-and-slow-twitch-muscle-fibers-3120094" target="_blank">Fast twitch muscle fibers</a> on the other hand are larger and more powerful muscles that work for less amount of time. These muscle fibers work primarily with creatine and sugar to produce the amount of energy needed for the exercise. Since these muscle fibers <a href="https://opentextbc.ca/anatomyandphysiology/chapter/10-6-exercise-and-muscle-performance/#fig-ch10_06_01" target="_blank">generate more power</a>, they are found in individuals who perform high intensity and power exercises that require high amounts of energy and fast muscular contraction. Those activities may include sprinting, power lifting, and soccer for example. How long will the energy last with these muscle fibers? There are a few <a href="https://alexanderfitness.wordpress.com/2015/07/08/nasm-chapter-13-resistance-training-concepts/" target="_blank">fast twitch muscle fibers</a> that last different amounts of time, but depending on the amount of <a href="https://sciencetrends.com/what-does-the-mitochondria-do/" target="_blank">mitochondria</a> (as mentioned above) each muscle fiber contains, the time may vary. However overall, the duration is about <a href="https://alexanderfitness.wordpress.com/2015/07/08/nasm-chapter-13-resistance-training-concepts/" target="_blank">30 seconds to 1 minute</a>&nbsp;for a fast twitch muscle fiber. To sum it all up, if you are someone that performs more fast and high intensity power exercises, you will have a greater density of fast twitch muscle fibers. On the other hand, if you perform more endurance exercises, you will have a greater density of slow twitch muscle fibers and higher amounts of Mitochondria!</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Questions?</h2>  <div class="paragraph">If you have any questions about this blog, feel free to comment below !&nbsp;</div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">Want to bring an Ageless Fitness to your area? We are franchising in 2020! If you are interested in bringing high quality training to people near you, please check out our&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.agelessfitness.us/franchise.html" target="_blank">Franchising</a><span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">&nbsp;page.</span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[3 energy pathways your body uses for different exercises]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/3-energy-pathways-your-body-uses-for-different-exercises]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/3-energy-pathways-your-body-uses-for-different-exercises#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 10 Sep 2019 19:53:49 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/3-energy-pathways-your-body-uses-for-different-exercises</guid><description><![CDATA[By: Juan Rodriguez         How does Creatine play a role in our energy system?  Creatine is a supplement taken by many exercisers that allows their bodies to perform better during a power exercise that lasts about 0-6 seconds. Our bodies first energy system is called the Phosphocreatine energy system (ATP-PC). In this system, Creatine&nbsp; allows for our muscles to quickly replenish the energy that is being used during the exercise. If we run out of Creatine at some point during our 6 second in [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">By: Juan Rodriguez</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/juan-blog-2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">How does Creatine play a role in our energy system?<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">Creatine is a supplement taken by many exercisers that allows their bodies to perform better during a power exercise that lasts about <a href="http://www.chs.riverview.wednet.edu/departments/pe-health/Energy_Systems_with_pictures.pdf" target="_blank" style="">0-6 seconds</a>. Our bodies first energy system is called the <a href="https://learnzone.loucoll.ac.uk/sportres/CourseGenie/Sport/2010spec/AASELevel2/L2EffectsOfExerciseOnTheBodySystems/L2EffectsOfExerciseOnTheBodySystems_02Mod/L2EffectsOfExerciseOnTheBodySystems_02Mod_02.htm" target="_blank" style="">Phosphocreatine energy system</a> (ATP-PC). In this system, Creatine&nbsp; allows for our muscles to quickly replenish the energy that is being used during the exercise. If we run out of Creatine at some point during our 6 second intervals, we turn to our next energy system called Glycolysis. The question is, what is the benefit of taking Creatine? Well, if we take about <a href="http://www.chs.riverview.wednet.edu/departments/pe-health/Energy_Systems_with_pictures.pdf" target="_blank" style="">25-30 second breaks</a> between our interval training, our body will be able to restore the energy we spent during our 0-6 second bouts. This is good news for those power lifters or sprinters that perform quick and <a href="https://www.acefitness.org/fitness-certifications/ace-answers/exam-preparation-blog/3256/the-three-primary-energy-pathways-explained" target="_blank" style="">powerful activities</a>. What happens if we exercise passed the 0-6 second mark? At that point, our body will stop utilizing Creatine as a form of creating energy and begin using another energy system called Glycolysis.&nbsp;&nbsp;</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Why do we need Carbohydrates?<br /></h2>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">Carbohydrates play an essential role in our bodies when we are performing fast paced exercises that last roughly about <a href="http://www.chs.riverview.wednet.edu/departments/pe-health/Energy_Systems_with_pictures.pdf" target="_blank" style="">6 seconds to 2 minutes long</a>. These Carbohydrates are broken down to glycogen (sugar) and are used as energy for the body. This process is called <a href="https://www.livestrong.com/article/544580-what-happens-to-lactic-acid-after-exercise/" target="_blank" style="">Glycolysis</a>. During this process, glycogen (sugar) is then broken down to a more simpler form and as a byproduct, lactic acid accumulates in our muscles. If you don't already know, lactic acid build up is the feeling we get when we feel the "burn" during our exercise routine and causes our body to fatigue. So, how do we remove lactic acid? All in short, Lactic Acid is turned into energy and carbon dioxide through a system called the <a href="https://www.livestrong.com/article/544580-what-happens-to-lactic-acid-after-exercise/" target="_blank" style="">Cori Cycle</a>. It is important and crucial that our bodies are supplied with Carbohydrates to ensure that we have the necessary energy that is needed for our exercise routine! when do we ever use fat as energy? Fat is another source of energy that requires a longer time to break down, which means that our demand for energy must slow down as well!&nbsp;</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><font color="#2a2a2a">How does Fat play a role in our bodies?</font><font color="#626262">&nbsp;</font>&#8203;</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">Fat is another source of energy that requires a longer time to break down, which means that our demand for energy must slow down as well!&nbsp;&#8203;Any exercise passed about the 2 minute mark requires the usage of <a href="https://www.acefitness.org/fitness-certifications/ace-answers/exam-preparation-blog/3256/the-three-primary-energy-pathways-explained" target="_blank">oxygen and the breakdown of Fat</a>. This form of energy is the least powerful of the three energy systems we use. This explains why this form of energy is used for a lot of endurance athletes. One thing to keep in mind is that we will always use a certain percentage of <a href="https://www.acefitness.org/fitness-certifications/ace-answers/exam-preparation-blog/3256/the-three-primary-energy-pathways-explained" target="_blank">every source of energy</a>. For example, if we were doing a long distance exercise our primary use of energy would be Fat, but we will also be utilizing a certain percentage of Carbohydrates at the same time!</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Questions?</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font color="#2a2a2a">If you have any questions or would like to learn more about this blog, feel free to comment below or email Ageless Fitness at <a href="mailto:info@agelessfitsb.com">info@agelessfitsb.com</a>!</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[3 ways that exercise plays a role in our bodies]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/3-ways-that-exercise-plays-a-role-in-our-bodies]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/3-ways-that-exercise-plays-a-role-in-our-bodies#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 04 Sep 2019 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.agelessfitness.us/blog/3-ways-that-exercise-plays-a-role-in-our-bodies</guid><description><![CDATA[by: Juan Rodriguez         Why is exercise important for decreasing sugar levels?  Exercise plays a big role in decreasing sugar levels, thanks to our GLUT4 receptors. These GLUT4 receptors are activated through the contraction of muscles and allow for insulin to bind with these receptors and allow for the uptake of sugar (glucose) into the muscle. This sugar molecule is then used as energy for the body.&nbsp;In other words, if we move around and stay active, we will be able to utilize sugar for [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">by: Juan Rodriguez</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.agelessfitness.us/uploads/2/8/9/5/28956189/elder_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Why is exercise important for decreasing sugar levels?</h2>  <div class="paragraph">Exercise plays a big role in decreasing sugar levels, thanks to our <a href="https://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-glut4.htm#didyouknowout" target="_blank">GLUT4</a> receptors. These GLUT4 receptors are activated through the contraction of muscles and allow for insulin to bind with these receptors and allow for the uptake of sugar (glucose) into the muscle. This sugar molecule is then used as energy for the body.&nbsp;<br />In other words, if we move around and stay active, we will be able to utilize sugar for energy!</div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Should we take insulin medication before or after exercise?<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph">When taking insulin medications, people sometimes wonder if it is safe to take them before or after an exercise. The answer is mainly going to be after the exercise or a decreased dosage before the <a href="http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/timing-of-exercise-and-your-insulin-levels/" target="_blank">exercise bout</a>. If you don't already know, <a href="https://www.news-medical.net/health/Insulins-role-in-the-human-body.aspx" target="_blank">insulin</a> is used to regulate the blood sugar, and allows for our body to take in sugar to use it for energy (all in short). As I mentioned above, we have these GLUT4 transporters that will activate during exercise and allow for our bodies to naturally take in sugar without the help of insulin. The risk of taking insulin before an exercise could result in hypoglycemia, meaning that you will have low blood sugar levels.&nbsp;<br />All in short, insulin should be monitored closely when exercising to prevent hypoglycemia and to maintain normal blood sugar level during and after our exercise!</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Should we be active before or after our meals?</h2>  <div class="paragraph">There are many studies that talk about whether or not it is more beneficial to exercise before or after our meals. Although the answer is not set in stone, one thing is for certain, we will have energy to carry us through the exercise in a fasted and non-fasted state. When exercising on an empty stomach, our body will use our stored energy called<a href="https://www.verywellfit.com/what-is-glycogen-2242008" target="_blank"> glycogen</a> as energy, as well as fat. There are studies that talk about how exercising at a fasted state will promote <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eating-before-or-after-workout" target="_blank">weight loss</a>,&nbsp;since we are using more fat as energy in this state. On the other hand, exercising after a meal makes sense that you will have more energy to carry you through the exercise routine, but this is also not certain. There are some studies that found no difference in exercise performance during a<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eating-before-or-after-workout" target="_blank"> fasted state or fed state</a>.<br />So, where does this end? Although there are no certainties, depending on your exercise routine it is your personal preference on whether or not you would like to eat before an exercise or not, you will <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eating-before-or-after-workout" target="_blank">benefit from the exercise</a> regardless.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>  <div class="paragraph"></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>