Biking from A to B

It is now officially summer, and I couldn't be more excited, although I have been calling it summer since I got home from school on May 17th. The one thing that I love about summer at home is using my bike for transportation. I try to bike almost everywhere I go, partly because I have to (I might be the only 21 year old who doesn't know how to drive), but also because there are so many benefits.

I have create a list of all of the great things about biking:

1. You don't use any fossil fuels, which is good for the environment and your wallet.
2. Instead of fossil fuels you get to use delicious fuels (ice cream as a summer time treat, or beer on a patio in the sun anyone?) or fuel you already have (on your butt or abs?)
3. It's an extra workout that is great for your heart, is low impact, and doesn't take up any extra time, because you have to commute anyways.
4. No traffic! There is no better feeling then being on a bike and buzzing past all those cars that are stuck in that traffic jam. Although sometime those runners and walkers on the path do get in your way, there is no faster way to get through downtown at 5 o'clock then on your bike.
5. Being outside. It's the summer and it's time to get outside. For those of us who live in places where there are four seasons let's take advantage of the time we can spend outside, you might get rained on every once in a while, but who cares!

Imagine if everyone biked to work even just 1 day a week how much better off we would all be.

Happy Cycling!

M. Boom

The Know How

From my experience the biggest thing keeping people from getting in shape is knowledge. Most people have no idea what to do when it comes to fitness, they don't want to get started because they feel, stupid or awkward doing it. But why do we make ourselves feel this way? The human body was built to MOVE. So let's get out there!

There are plenty of ways to learn how to get in shape you just have to find what is right for you.

Here is my Overview of fitness options that are out there and widely available.

1. Group Fitness- The options today are way beyond just Jane Fonda aerobics of the 80s, although the classics are still available (and lots of fun!). A very brief list of the options that are available out there: Zumba, Step Aerobics, Boot Camp Training, Circuit Training, Sculpt and Stretch, Classic Aerobics, Spinning, etc. The options are endless and there are new classes coming out all the time, there is really something for everyone!
2. Personal Training- Personal trainers are great for those who want to learn how to use that gym membership and have no idea what to do. They are also excellent for those with specific goals. You can also find personal they will come to you in your home if you prefer not to go to the gym
3. Sport Specific- Ever wanted to run a race, learn how to row, play soccer again? Most sports clubs have both competitive and recreational programs. The running room stores have running clinics, and most rowing clubs have learn to row programs. Basically any sport you want to get into you can, so do what interests you! Fitness should be about fun!
4. Yoga- I love yoga, although I don't do it as much as I would like. Yoga studios are common place in most towns today, and all Lululemon's have free weekly classes. Although I am a big proponent for a good yin class, if you want to improve your aerobic capacity and muscular endurance I would choose a vinyasa, or power based class.
5. Fitness Videos- For a rainy day option, or for those of us who are crunched for time and money fitness videos are a great option to have. Some really good ones are Insanity (see my post) or P90X. I like these because they are complete programs that really push you to work hard. There are plenty of good videos out there, find the ones that you like.

However you choose to workout, you no longer have the excuse of not knowing how should not be an excuse. Today the resourses are out there wherever you live. At you local community center, gym, sports clubs, yoga studios, or ordered through your computer.

So get moving!

Mariel BOOM