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

Hot, Hotter, Hottest

I am someone who loves to workout outside, I get depressed in the winter when I have to be inside all the time. What is there to do on a day like today when it`s 40C (104F) with the humidity? I did bike over to my friends house to go tanning in back yard, with frequent cool down breaks in the sprinkler, but it was much to hot out to do more then bike for transportation.
Yesterday when I decided it was a good idea to erg in the humidity I felt like I could barely breath.
What is a girl to do? I have come up with a few options:
1) Workout leisurely (well not full out) outside, and drink lots of water.
2) workout in the early morn or late evening when it's not as hot
3) Go swimming, although the City of Ottawa has not yet officially open it's beaches, check it out because early season waters in high temperatures might not be safe to swim in
4) Workout indoors, I will probably be doing an INSANITY workout () tonight in my nicely air conditioned basement.

The plus side of this weather is that I only craved fresh veggies and cold fruit (ok and ice cream)
Keep Cool

Mariel BOOM

INSANITY!

It has been a week and a day since I was last in a boat, and for a competitive rower that is a long time when there are races in the near future and the water is flowing.
Although I have been enjoying my time off, I am getting a little restless without the structure of competitive athletics. I have found something that keeps the restless at bay. It's Shaun T's INSANITY!

It's an entire workout program all on workout videos, that is literally insane, but totally awesome. All you need to do any of the 10 workouts is a mat, and most you don't even need that. Shaun T as runs these hardcore circuits he is motivating, hardcore and intense but never condescending. He is constantly reminding you of the importance of form and to take a break if you lose it.
Although I am not following the program to a tee, if you want something to do for the next 60 days that is fun and will get you in wicked shape INSANITY is it! Even though I am going back to the water with 2 a day rows on this Thursday, I am going to keep up with my insanity workouts to help maintain my speed, power, and agility as well as to help me with my weak areas: shoulders and hips.
Push the couch a side and go insane!
Mariel BOOM!

Next post will be on my celiac reseach, because according to women's health (I know that this is not a credible medical journal) it could be the cause of the mysterious red bumps on my knees and elbows.