Posts Tagged ‘recreation’

Whole Body Vibration Exercise Technology

Monday, April 26th, 2010

Whole Body Vibration (WBV) exercise is rapidly becoming more of a mainstream form of fitness training among many fitness enthusiasts, competitive and professional athletes. WBV training works your muscles in ways that ordinary training cannot. Using a vibration machine has many documented therapeutic benefits, as well.

As more and more companies appear in the marketplace, most giving conflicting information, it becomes difficult for the average consumer to know whose claims to believe.

Essentially, whole body vibration equipment can be built to move in three different planes. This is dependent upon the individual and specific manufacturers. Some manufacturers only make lineal (vertical) vibration technology while others use a combination of lineal only, pivotal (oscillating, teeter-totter) or a third type called 3D or tri-planar.

A pivotal vibration plate vibrates from a center axis in a see-saw or teeter-totter like action (called frontal plane X-axis). A vertical vibration plate vibrates straight up and down (called vertical plane Z-axis). Both machines have proven benefits, and there is very little, if any, evidence to suggest one method is better than the other. Some, but not many manufacturers have WBV machines that move in three planes by adding a front to back motion (sagital plane Y-axis)

Vertical (Lineal) Vibration Platform Z-axis

Oscillating (Pivotal) Platform X-axis

Tri-Planar (3D) Platform Y-axis

Most WBV platform types can have two variables that can be adjusted to produce different vibratory effects. The two variables of a vibration platform are,

1. Amplitude (vertical displacement)
2. Frequency (platform speed)

By adjusting either of these two variables we also change things such as, the number of times per second our muscles contract, the amount G force exerted on our body, the degree of difficulty in stabilizing, the flow of blood through our body etc. Research tells us that different frequencies will have different effects on our body. Depending on what effects you are hoping to benefit from, will determine what frequency you should use your machine at.

It is also important to understand the recommended, researched, and safe variables when using each type of vibration platform. For pivotal vibration the frequency range should be between 1 and 30Hz, the amplitude range should be no greater than 6.5mm (13mm maximum displacement). For vertical vibration the frequency range should be between 25 and 50Hz, the amplitude range should be no greater than 3mm (6mm maximum displacement).

Most research studies suggest that using a vibration platform at higher frequencies is more beneficial for increasing muscle and strength. Therefore if is this one of the benefits you are looking for, it is important your machine can produce these higher frequencies. The research also suggests that the higher range of frequencies have far more benefits than the lower frequency range.

Learn more about Whole Body Vibration exercise. Stop by Bruce Lipsky, MS’s sitewhere you can find out all about WBV’s and their health and wellness benefits.

Enjoy Learning in Your Retirement

Thursday, March 25th, 2010

“There are three ingredients in the good life : learning, earning, and yearning.”

Christopher Morley 1890 – 1957 Parnassus on Wheels

For most people, the yearning and the earning tend to be rather subdued after retirement, so all the more reason to concentrate on the learning ! What’s more, we are not dogs, so the old saw about not being able to teach old dogs new tricks doesn’t apply to us ! A great many retired and elderly folk spend their retirement years learning new things, and stretching their minds.

Mortimer J Adler (1902 – 2001), the prominent American philosopher and educator said:

“The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as we continue to live.”

Research studies on the elderly have shown that at age eighty, a person’s learning capabilities are the same as they were at age twelve. Their language learning capability is often better, in fact, since the neural cells responsible for higher order linguistic processes such as understanding semantic relationships and grammatical sensitivity develop with age.

Naturally, any health problems with for example hearing, cognition or sight, or any one of a number of other chronic diseases, can affect a person’s learning capabilities. Possibly the most prevalent barriers to learning in the aged are psychological, however: “I’m too old to learn” “I’ve learned enough” We’ve all heard such excuses. It is a pity that such people do not understand the real joy which can be obtained through learning, not to mention the social aspects of learning with others.

Learning is still welcomed, though, among many of the elderly. For this reason, many of the barriers which hitherto have deterred older people from embracing technological advances, such as eMail and the internet, are collapsing. Indeed, e-learning is rapidly becoming an affordable and accessible vehicle for the elderly to continue with their education. Care must be exercised however – there are plenty of charlatans out there on the web eager to fleece the unwary.

What to study, though ?

Years of hard work, raising families and so on take their toll on people, leaving them with little time to devote to themselves, and no particular interests which can be pursued in retirement. Here are a few options chosen at random by me:

Music appreciation, and musicology in general Ditto Art Ditto History, local and general Ditto Ancient History and /or Archaeology Ditto Literature

Studies, especially recreational studies, do not necessarily have to be pursued to bachelor degree standard or higher. In most instances, the acquisition of knowledge for its own sake is a more than adequate reward, and the benefits are endless in ways not at first apparent. The brain is a muscle, which requires exercise – the more so, the older you get.

Henry Ford once said :

“Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty.

Peter Shaw is a writer with a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of those who are newly retired, retrenched or unemployed. Find his thoughts and ideas here: Instant articles and books for the retired And go here for a bit of fun: A fun page for the retired !

Pro Form Electric Treadmill Purchasing Guide

Sunday, March 14th, 2010

We all have a tight schedule to live up to. Work, kids, and several other obligations can take away the big part of our day. As a consequence there is very little room to give out to additional activities. Such way of life expects that we stay strong and productive if we want to last long. Including working out in your life may look daunting but there is a certain solution to this and it is rather simple.

One of the best possible solutions is buying a proform electric treadmill. Benefits of having and using one are several. First and most significant of all is that they save room. You can literally put them in any room in your home. I know that your home is possibly overcrowded as it is and adding one more robust thing may be too much. The option in this case may be to get a folding treadmill which can be laid away after training.

A small electric treadmill can be used for walking, jogging and running, therefore, with various levels of intensity. Because intensity is a changeable factor, range of people that can use it is very extensive. E.g., older individuals and pregnant women can use it for walking or jogging, while athletes for intensive running.

Interesting information is that you do not even have to disregard your present life style to use a treadmill. While working out, you can freely watch the news, catch up on your most recent book or magazine, or even chat with your kids or spouse after returning home from work or school. So, as you can see, including a folding electric treadmill exercise can stay unnoticed.

Until now, in order to achieve a high-quality training and stimulate your body to remain in shape, you would use a whole bunch of dedicated equipment pieces, like dumbbells or exercise equipment in the gym. Such exercising always required a particular technical ability and before developed set of skills. With electric treadmills for sale, you do not need to be acquainted with any of that so you can freely lighten up and enjoy your training.

Besides electric, you also have manual treadmills. Both manual and electric treadmill models have a track or tread on which you walk or run. The difference is that with manual models you apply your own strength to rotate the track, which may be tough for some folks that are just starting out. Thus a better solution would be to purchase an electric powered treadmill that is run by a motor.

An electrical treadmill often comes with a bunch of bonus features, which can make the indoor running training more exciting than in the standard outdoor surrounding. Pulse monitor or a speed and distance calculator can provide you with info that can aid you to further optimize your workout program. Having to watch TV and listen to music while running can motivate even the most indifferent persons.

Hence, as you are able to see, there are plenty of features that you can profit from, while at the same time, all things are configured to make your training very comfortable to do. Given that including fitness in your life became simple due to a weslo electric treadmill, you are literally running out of excuses for working out.

If you are intrigued in reading more regarding cheap electric treadmills visit the next web site: used electric treadmills.

An Introduction To Simple Golfing Performance Tips

Saturday, March 13th, 2010

Modern professional golfers have a team of nutritionists, sports therapists, their caddy and mentors to make the most of their playing ability during competition. Their training regime focuses on increasing energy levels, strength and flexibility. It is clear that most amateurs will not have the free time to put in the same level of off-course training, but they could still learn and apply the following key on-course performance techniques that the professionals use.

Hydration

If you watch any professionals golfing you will always note them sipping water throughout a round. At most tee boxes in a professional championship there will usually be a cooler full of bottled water for the players. One of the caddie’s tasks is to regularly offer their player a bottle of water. The key with staying hydrated is to take sips of water throughout a round at regular intervals. The moment you start feeling thirsty is too late, in scientific terms, as your body is already performing in a sub-optimum manner.

You could use sugar/caffeine drinks but be aware that this causes fluctuations in blood sugar levels that can cause similar peaks and troughs in how you play (for example, over hitting greens on one hole, short putting on the next).

Nutrition

Filling your car with high quality fuel makes it run/perform better. Likewise, the food you eat before and during a golfing round will affect the energy levels and performance you will experience. Golfing professionals are like other athletes in that they take several small meals each day to keep their energy levels consistent.

While on the course, the caddy will ensure the energy levels will stay topped up with bananas or other fruit (bananas are favored for their slow energy release).

Stretches

All athletes use low impact exercises such as Pilates and Yoga and stretches to maintain muscle flexibility and reduce the risk of muscle strain. Staying flexible around the stomach and back for golfers is essential to making the back swing consistent and reducing the risk of muscle strain.

For the average golfer performing some simple stretches (lower back, legs & calves) prior to a round of golf will help warm the muscles up and reduce the risk of the back/legs stiffening up toward the end of a round.

Awareness

These simple pillars of performance are not rocket science. However, it is important to be actively aware of what your body is telling you during a round of golf so that you may remedy it the next time.

Being thirsty or becoming tired during a round are signs that you are not fuelling your body correctly. Body aches/pulling muscles or wayward shots could well be down to the fact that your muscles are over-strained and would have benefited from some pre-round stretches.

Trying to perfect your golf swing at the driving range is one way of improving your game, but you should also look to improve your golfing performance through the use of nutrition, hydration and stretches.

Looking for more golfing tips? Stop by Stephen’s site where you can discover the Perfect Golf Swing ebook. Each ebook comes with free extras covering golfing tips

A Few Accurate Facts About Elliptical Machines

Saturday, March 13th, 2010

At last, we are starting to get the idea of how good exercise is for us. As we get older, our habits change and we find ourselves putting on a few pounds, if we have younger children or even grandchildren, we find it hard to keep up with them

Finding a good program when your older can be difficult as you haven’t got the flexibility you once had. That’s why I recommend an elliptical workout.

It can be compared to a treadmill in that is works the same areas; but there isn’t the pressure on the knees and ankles that come with pounding the treadmill.

The workout you get from an elliptical is great, as you don’t just get the cardio benefits; you are burning calories and toning up your thighs, legs and butt in the process. As it is very low impact, you get these benefits without pounding a hard surface.

Due to their relatively low cost compared to other, these machines are extremely popular for working out in the home. Various programs are on these machines so you can adjust the tension etc to keep up with your improving fitness.

The thing is that the elliptical is so easy to use, people don’t have it set at the right level or aren’t using it the right way, and don’t get the benefits that they should be getting.

The elliptical has bars for you to hold to keep your balance; this is all they are there for. Leaning over them means the bar is taking the pressure of the workout as opposed to your body and you will not burn the calories that you should.

If you find that you can’t use the elliptical without leaning, I would recommend that you use an elliptical that has handle bars which swing, so you are doing something similar to a cross country skiing motion. You will be steady but getting a proper workout.

In addition to fitness, this author also frequently gives advice about floor vent covers and decorative heating vent covers.

What You Need To Know When Choosing Sunglasses

Saturday, March 13th, 2010

There is no doubt that sunglasses work well as a fashion accessory. The style of your glasses says plenty about your style in general.

The shape of your face and your sense of style are wow key factors that will help you determine the ideal sunglasses for you.

It is important for you to choose sunglasses that are as high a quality as possible so that you can guarantee the protection from UV rays is as high as possible, and that the glasses are sturdy enough to last for a reasonable period of time.

If you are about to buy a new pair of sunglasses than you might want to use some of the tips here to help you make the best choice possible.

Check The UV Rating

Eye disease has UV rays to thank for much of its existence. Choosing the correct pair of sunglasses can go a long way to helping lower your risk of developing any problems.

A pair of sunglasses with a dark tinit does not guarantee high UV protection. Check the official UV rating of the sunnies if at all possible and use this information to make the right choice.

Materials They Are Made From

As a general rule the heavier the sunglasses are, the higher the quality of materials they are made from. You are looking for a pair of sunnies that will last you longer than a few months and will be able to withstand continued exposure to the sun. and mistreatment.

The Tint

There are a wide range of tints that you will be able to choose from. Select the tint that suits your own tastes.

It is recommended that you wear any potential sunglasses in the sun before purchase if you can. This will give you a better look at how the world appears through this particular tint.

Colours could be distorted with one tint, while they will not be affected with another.

Polarisation

If sunglasses are polarised they will help cut down on the glare from light that is reflected from other surfaces like water or the road. This makes them perfect for use when driving, or if you spend time out on the water.

They are also useful for people who like to wear sunglasses if they are playing sport such as golf or cricket, or if you work outside on flat, reflective surfaces.

Visit Red Ribbon Gifts today for a range of gifts for women such as black leather handbags.

Several Locations Where You Can Do Your Metal Detecting – Greatest Info To Find It

Friday, March 12th, 2010

Metal detecting is extremely a fun activity especially for people who just enjoy discovering new things however simple the items discovered may be. At times, these people would go such a long way traveling to different places just to have a different experience in metal detecting. And there are endless options which you can choose from if you are metal detecting including the kinds of places or locations where you want to do it. For most people, metal detecting has already been a part of their lives and so they already know the various unique places where to carry out and accomplish this leisure pursuit.

Parks And Recreational Areas

Truly, there are a lot of places where you can go in order to do your metal detecting. Since these places are the ones normally visited by metal detectors, you are guaranteed that they will give you a much more enjoyable experience with your hobby. Public places that are swarmed by so many people are definitely great places to start and these places include the park and the beach which are truly great areas where you can conduct your metal detecting.

Since these places are swarmed by so many people each day, it is most likely that different items can fall from their pockets and bags which may include earrings, coins, bracelets and other kinds of jewelry. Although they may be normal items, it is certainly fulfilling to be able to find such valuables in the middle of a vast beach or a huge park. And to further increase your chances of finding items in these places, you should go there during busy days and holidays since there will be more people going around the places. Surely, you will sooner or later find something in the area that somebody has lost. Be careful though to avoid finding not so valuable items such as cans and junk along the way.

Beaches

Even at the beach where it is all sand, you can definitely find exciting items during your metal detecting. However, it is important that you use a specialized metal detector to be efficient in this diversion. Most usual metal detectors are not good with salt water and can therefore be more of a hassle for you. Also, since these beaches are swarmed by so many people each day, you are sure to find things that are worthwhile buried in the sand. It is important for you to be unafraid of getting dirty in digging these things up.

Historical Places

If you still want to increase your experience of metal detecting, you can even go researching for different historical places where you can most likely find lost and valuable items. Although these places may be more difficult to locate; at times, the journey alone is enough experience to make the expedition worth it. Moreover, although going to these places may be a lot more expensive than just simply going to the park or beach, the experience that you will bring with you will be something that you are going to value in the future. What is more, exploring fresher grounds and discovering new items will definitely make you a much better metal detector in the end.

Graniela Montellio; do not miss his best tips along with metal detector, please also click solar energy advantages and installing a residential solar energy system.

Evidence That Pilates Do A Body Good

Friday, March 12th, 2010

If we are looking to lose some weight, tone up or just get fitter in general, we tend to start exercising or working out. An excellent overall exercise is Pilates, which you can do in the comfort of your own home.

There are a lot more benefits to your health from Pilates that people tend to realize. While I’m going to tell you about some of them now, you’ll never truly relate to the wonders of Pilates until you try it out for yourself. Hopefully this article will serve as inspiration.

As Pilates consists of exercises both including machines and not, you are guaranteed a full and beneficial workout. This keeps you looking great in every way, as you’ll burn fat and tone your muscle all at once.

The main difference between Pilates and other activities is that it focuses on your entire body, not just arms, legs, abs etc like other machines.

As Pilates is most popular with women, it’s reassuring for them to know how much they are increasing their core strength and fitness without gaining unattractive muscle.

Let’s face it; few women want to look like a body builder. Pilates ensures that they gain the fitness they want but without losing their womanly shape.

Pilates isn’t a easy to do properly as a lot of people think, but it really is a great form of exercise and can be done by those of any age. Older practitioners of this exercise totally advocate the benefits and how much better they feel. There is even Pilates for children to encourage exercise and keep them strong.

So there you go, the health benefits that come from doing Pilates are obvious. They fact that you can do a full body workout with ease and get such great results make it a firm favorite.

Aside from fitness, this author additionally frequently shares knowledge regarding car battery price and batteries golf cart.

Jack LaLanne Power Juicer Stainless Steel

Friday, March 12th, 2010

Health is the top priority today. You can not go anywhere without hearing how people are overweight and how fast food is killing them. The cost of healthcare is through the roof as the President tries to change the system. Wouldn’t it be easier if we controlled our own health and invested in a juicer that could give us the vitamins and minerals we need, as we rush through our days?

Power Juicer Classic

This juicer is, as its title implies, a classic. All Jack LaLanne juicers are built with a similar juicing capacity. The juice feeder can accommodate almost any fruit or vegetable size, you may try. The sharp steel blades allow the Classic to further extract the juice. Its clean and stylish mix in any kitchen decor. Measures 16 “x12″ x15.5 “.

Power Juicer Express

The Power Juicer Express is a bit like his younger brother, the classic. It has the same gentle whisper operation, 3,600 RPM Motor and extras. The Express has a peak anti-fall (great when the kids are getting a drink) and slightly thinner design. Can you imagine your children mixing their own blends and drinking them because they taste awesome? All parts of the juicer are dishwasher friendly.

Power Juicer Deluxe

The base of the mold for all of these juicers is the same but when you get to the top models the manufacturer has added a stainless steel finish. Many owners have invested in stainless steel appliances for your kitchen and the Power Juicer Deluxe has as well. It’s also good to know that juicers have built in safety features so it is safe to operate for anyone from 9 to 90. Measures 16 “x12″ x15.5 “.

Power Juicer Power Juicer Elite Pro

The Power Juicer Power Juicer Pro and Elite are the top of the line Power Juicers. The Pro model includes a stainless steel mesh filter that offers easy cleaning and durability. The Elite juicer is a wonderful option for people who are very health conscious and are interested in a soy diet. This juicer has a special wheel and EZ Loader creating only organic soy milk. Just add water to soybeans and you get extra protein, fiber and calcium. Both machines are stainless steel. Pro measures 16 “x12″ x15.5. “Elite measures 16.5″ x13 “x16″.

Get the vitamins and minerals your body needs in minutes per day of juice from fruits and vegetables. You will be impressed with the difference that it will make in your mood and overall health.

Brandon writes for the Jack LaLanne stainless steel power juicer website which also sells Jack LaLanne juicer parts.

5 Reasons Why You Have To Try Mountainboarding

Thursday, March 11th, 2010

There are practically no limits in the extreme sport of mountainboarding. Take for example skateboarding and snowboarding. They can only be done on one type of terrain; hard surfaces, and snow. This sport on the other hand, isn’t like that. Dirt doesn’t melt, and it isn’t limited to just paved surfaces.

I already know that this sport is awesome, but in case you don’t, let me tell you why exactly it’s a great sport to get into!

This sport is great exercise! Working out on an exercise bike, and running on a treadmill while going nowhere is boring. Why get your exercise cooped up indoors when you could go outside and get some much needed fresh air? Balance and control are needed in this sport, and riding downhill will most certainly get your blood pumping. After the ride you’ll get most of your exercise carrying your board back up, which will definitely make you burn some calories! Exercise doesn’t have to be boring, and with mountainboarding, it isn’t!

Want to have fun? Try this sport out! It is an adrenaline pumping and exhilarating experience. Only a zombie would be able to make it to the bottom of the hill and not smile even a little. I doubt a zombie could make it all the way down a hill without falling off, but that is besides the point.

With this sport there’s always new challenges waiting for you. If you like challenges, there is always a bigger hill or a harder trick to master. You are always challenged every time you step on your board!

Like the outdoors? This sport is all about being outside and having fun. It gives you a good excuse to go outside and enjoy the great outdoors or the wonderful weather. With a mountainboard underneath you, the world literally becomes a giant park to ride at.

Snow melts, dirt doesn’t. If you are a snowboarder you can pick up this sport in the off season. If you live in a warm climate, it gives you a chance to have fun year round!

There you have it, five reasons why you should give the exciting sport of mountainboarding a try.

If you want to spend more time outdoors, have more fun, challenge yourself, and make the world your all-terrain skatepark, give mountainboarding a shot! You just might like it!

For more about mountainboarding, visit ATBRiders, a mountainboard community where mountainboarders worldwide can get together to share tips, pictures, videos, and more.