2015 - PGX®

4 Moves to Build Body Strength

Written by Kara Hamada - Posted on 29 December 2015

4 Moves to Build Body Strength

When you think of what it means to be in shape, what does that mean to you?

To me, being healthy and in shape means that you work out because you love your body, not because you feel the need to change it. You embrace it, not hate it. You push yourself for the ultimate goal of building strength and long-term health. Pairing weight training, total body cardio, and a good attitude are three perfect ways of doing just that.

Working out for aesthetic purposes can get tiring. You’re pushing yourself mainly to improve your outward appearance and not truly focusing on what your body wants.

So, let’s focus on strength today! The following 4 exercises are great weight-training moves that help build muscular strength.

1. Squat

Simple movements, like a squat, can help build strength. As you get more and more comfortable with your squat, you can begin to add weight. Whether you add a barbell (with or without weights) or utilize free weights, your form is key and I urge you to work with a personal trainer to ensure it is correct. As you add weight, you will likely take off repetitions.

Squats will not only help you build muscles in your legs, but they also promote body-wide muscle building [1]. As you squat, testosterone and human growth hormones are released which aid in improving muscle mass when you train other areas of your body [2].

2. Shoulder Press

Because the shoulder joint is one of the most movable and unstable joints in the body, it’s important to strengthen the muscles that surround it. Everyday movements, like putting a heavy box on a top shelf and lifting up grocery bags, use those muscles; just another reason to maintain strength here!

The basic shoulder press is a great push exercise to help you gain strength in your upper body. Just like the squat, as you gain confidence with this exercise (in right form), you can begin to add more weight. You can also do a shoulder press with a barbell or free weights either sitting or standing.

3. Bench Press

Another great push exercise is the bench press. Known as the “universal lift” by weight trainers across the nation, this exercise not only uses your chest but basically every muscle in your upper body! Just like the previous two exercises, you can add weight as you become comfortable, and it can be done as a chest press with dumbbells or a barbell press on a bench. This exercise can be done on a straight bench, decline or incline. The difference in angles simply targets different areas of your chest.

4. Pull Up

To my ladies, I know how difficult these are. Honestly, I can probably only do a few pull ups right now. It’s an exercise that you need to work on (gradually) until the muscles in your upper body work together.

Pull ups are great because they can be done virtually anywhere, like outside utilizing a tree branch, or at an elementary school on the monkey bars. Pull ups, like squats, are a compound body movement which can release human growth hormone when done correctly [3]. If you cannot do a pull up on your own, start off with a lat pull down or an assisted pull up machine.

References:

[1] Mercola, Dr. “8 Reasons to Do Squat Exercises.” Mercola.com. Fitness Peak, 25 May 2012. Web. 27 Nov. 2015.

[2] Mercola, Dr. “8 Reasons to Do Squat Exercises.” Mercola.com. Fitness Peak, 25 May 2012. Web. 27 Nov. 2015.

[3] Meyers, Anthony. “6 Benefits Of Pullups – Muscle Class.” Muscle Class. N.p., 14 Nov. 2011. Web. 27 Nov. 2015.

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5 Healthy Breakfast Ideas

Written by Patience Lister - Posted on 21 December 2015

5 Healthy Breakfast Ideas

Breakfast can fuel your morning, recharge your blood sugar, and help to prevent the mid-morning slump. Studies show that people who eat a healthy breakfast have an easier time managing their weight. However, it’s often hard to think of healthy ideas in the midst of your morning rush. Keep this list handy for five breakfast options that will give your day a healthy kick-start!

1. High Protein Smoothie

With the right ingredients, smoothies make a healthy and filling breakfast that are convenient to eat on the go. Give this smoothie recipe a try one morning for a delicious breakfast drink complete with protein, healthy fat, and fibre.

2. Apple With Cottage Cheese and Walnuts

Combining a fresh, crisp apple with creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese makes an ideal sweet and savoury breakfast. Sprinkle on a tablespoon of walnuts for added fibre and the omega-3 fatty acid ALA.

3. Steel Cut Oats With Berries

If you exercise in the morning, steel cut oats make a fantastic pre-workout fuel. Their low glycemic index, along with the healthy balance of carbohydrates and protein, provides a long-lasting source of energy. To boost the fibre content, sprinkle on *SlimStyles® PGX Granules.

4. Protein Pancakes

Swapping out high-flour pancakes for those made with lentils, additional egg whites, or Greek yogurt will rev-up the protein content, and help stave off hunger during a busy morning.

5. Avocado Egg White Wrap

Healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, and fibre; A satisfying breakfast that’s as simple as wrapping sliced avocado and a cooked egg white in a corn tortilla or low carb cabbage leaf.

*Drink additional water (8 FL. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

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A Guide to “Everything in Moderation”

Written by Patience Lister - Posted on 16 December 2015

A Guide to “Everything in Moderation”

When you know you’re doing something healthy, it’s easy to get carried away. But more is not always best, even when it comes to diet, exercise, and work. Find your balance and get the most from your actions with this guide to “Everything in Moderation”.

Nutrition

No matter what the latest diet trend suggests, your body needs fat, carbohydrates, and protein to be healthy. Cutting one of these groups from your diet can hinder vital functions, such as vitamin absorption, mental focus, and hormone production. Similarly, foods such as fatty fish, coffee and tea, dark chocolate, and alcohol offer health benefits when consumed at moderate levels, but too much can put your health at risk.

Guide to Moderation: Eat a balanced diet of 20-35% fat, 45-65% carbohydrates, and 10-35% protein [1]. Enjoy all foods in their recommended serving sizes.

Dieting

Does your “diet” involve cutting out entire food groups or skipping meals? No matter your weight, this is not a healthy or sustainable way to lose it.

Guide to Moderation: Eat a variety of nutritious foods from all food groups in moderate portion sizes. Build healthy, fibre-rich snacks, such as PGX®* Satisfast® Whey Protein Drink Mix, into your meal plan to maintain healthy blood sugar levels already within the normal range.†

Exercise

Regular exercise offers countless benefits, including improved fitness, stress reduction, a trim waistline, and better overall health. But when the intensity or frequency of your workouts becomes too high for your body to recover properly, your health can suffer.

Guide to Moderation: To maintain your current weight and cardiovascular health, 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week is recommended. And don’t forget to include strength training in your routine.

Work

No matter how much you love your job, you sometimes need to leave your work, well, at work.

Guide to moderation: Find a work/life balance that includes time for family, friends, exercise, and relaxation—without your phone or laptop.

Sure, moderation is not always an option—like when you’re training for a marathon or pushing through a big project at work. But that’s okay. The key is moderation over the long term.

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

† This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References:

[1] Health Canada. “Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide – A Resource for Educators and Communicators.” Food and Nutrition. Web. 18 October 2015.

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6 Best Post-Workout Foods

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 10 December 2015

6 Best Post-Workout Foods

Efficient refueling after a workout helps your body build and maintain muscle. Strength training and other types of exercise can cause tiny tears in the muscles which, when repaired, help to make the muscles stronger. However, your body needs a good supply of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats in order to make those repairs.

Research suggests that a 4:1 ratio of carbohydrate to protein is an efficient way to replenish muscle energy in the form of glycogen, and to kick start the healing process to build stronger and healthier muscles. This process also requires a good intake of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, including plenty of antioxidants, to stave off damage from the free radicals generated by increased metabolism during exercise.

Post-Workout: The Importance of Protein

When choosing post-workout foods, aim for between 6 and 20 grams of protein, depending on factors such as the intensity of your workout, your body weight, and your weight management goals. This helps feed your muscles without overtaxing digestion or overloading on amino acids that won’t be used.

A smoothie with a scoop of plant-based protein, such as PGX Protein*, is an easy and convenient way to get a good amount of protein, along with beneficial fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

In addition to choosing foods with a good amount of protein, it’s also a good idea to keep your fat intake low immediately after exercise, as fat slows down digestion. However, including a source of omega-3 essential fatty acids can help support your body’s natural inflammatory response.†

6 Post-Workout Foods

Not a fan of smoothies? Not to worry! Keep the following foods on hand for a delicious, beneficial post-workout snack or meal:

1. Nut Butter and Banana Sandwich

PB & J, without the J! Try eating a banana, almond butter sandwich on whole wheat bread for a quick way to refuel after a session at the gym or after a big competition.

The almond butter and bread provide protein, and the almonds are a source of vitamin E, magnesium and calcium, which support healthy muscle function. Bananas contain easily digested carbohydrates to restock glycogen stores, in addition to a range of beneficial antioxidants. They also contain tryptophan, the amino acid that is converted into serotonin, so bananas could be the ideal post-workout snack for anyone who struggles to enjoy exercise!

2. Lentil Soup

A rich source of protein, iron and fiber, lentils are a great choice for any post-workout meal. They have about 2.2 grams of carbohydrates to 1 gram of protein, so adding in kale, spinach or chard to a basic lentil soup is a great way to meet that 4:1 ratio of carbohydrate to protein, all while stocking up on vitamins, minerals and a range of phytonutrients.

Mix in onions, leeks, shallots and/or garlic for additional sulfur compounds that help the body to produce glutathione, a key antioxidant enzyme that helps support muscle health.

3. Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a versatile whole food that can be boiled, roasted and salted for a handy post-workout snack. They can also be included in a vegetable stir fry with soba (buckwheat noodles) to round out the protein for a heartier meal, or processed into hummus as a simple, tasty dip to enjoy alongside fresh vegetables or pita bread.

Chickpeas have a 3:1 ratio of carbohydrate to protein, barely any fat, and when you combine them with a little lemon juice (rich in vitamin C), they’re a good source of iron.

4. Chia-Tofu Pudding With Blueberries

Chia seeds are a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids required in our diet. They’re also a good source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. When whipped up with some silken tofu, blueberries, and a dash of maple syrup, chia seeds transform into a delicious pudding that is high in antioxidants, protein and fiber.

5. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, beta-carotene, vitamins C, B2, B6, B5 (pantothenic acid), folic acid, copper and potassium. Team a sweet potato with a good source of protein, like hummus or beans, and you’ll have an excellent antioxidant-rich post-workout meal.

6. Maca

This root vegetable is a rich source of nutrients and is traditionally used to support adrenal gland function, helping the body to cope with stress. Maca may also help keep cortisol levels in check, which can support healthy blood glucose regulation already within the normal range and support a healthy inflammatory response.† Powdered maca can be added to any smoothie, or even to soup for convenience.

Developing Good Post-Workout Eating Habits

It’s important to eat well after exercise so as to not leave yourself vulnerable to injury and to support a healthy immune system.† Exercising without giving your body enough time and the right nutrition to repair muscles can increase the risk of muscle soreness and injury, as well as making you susceptible to fatigue and less than optimal support for your immune system.†

If you find it hard to eat after exercising, try a protein shake or soup. Liquids are easier to consume, digest and assimilate, meaning that you can pack in more good nutrition without expending energy chewing and breaking down the food. Save the serious whole foods for about an hour after exercise so your body has time to ready itself to focus on digestion.

Remember to make your post-workout foods fun! That way, you’ll be more motivated to exercise and won’t be tempted to skip the important window of opportunity to restock those glycogen stores and help your muscles to start healing.†

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

†This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Why You Crave Sugar

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 2 December 2015

Why You Crave Sugar

Practically everybody knows that sugar is bad for our health, so why is it such a challenge to give it up? What is it that makes many of us crave sugar so relentlessly, and how can we conquer those cravings? A wealth of research suggests four considerations that may affect sugar cravings:

Stress
PMS or Menopause
Microbial imbalance in the gut
Thyroid health

These issues can all overlap, feed each other and make sugar cravings that much harder to overcome.

1. Stress

Someone who has a diet high in sugar typically has a higher risk of occasional sleep problems, erratic energy levels, and less concentration. This can make it harder to get through essential tasks and to manage emotions. This then leads to stress, which can prompt sugar cravings, and so on. It’s a cycle that’s all too easy to get stuck in.

According to a study published in the journal Appetite, 77% of women who had high levels of stress reported sugar cravings, compared to just 31% of women who were relaxed. The women who felt stressed also had significantly larger waists and higher levels of leptin, a hormone involved in appetite control.

For some people, finding new ways to relax or allotting for sufficient downtime in their schedule could be key to conquering their sugar cravings. Taking up a new sport, social activity or simply finding the time to take a bath may be just what you need to skip the sugar.

2. PMS or Menopause

PMS and menopause normal life stages can influence the activity of insulin, making cells more resistant to its effects and thereby increasing the likelihood of sugar cravings. Ensuring a healthy, balanced diet that is high in vitamins (especially B vitamins), minerals and healthy fats and protein from fibre-rich plant foods can support hormone levels and stable energy release, helping to combat sugar cravings. Taking a high-fibre supplement such as PGX* can also help with appetite control by slowing down the release of carbohydrates from food and maintaining a feeling of fullness for longer.

Anyone who is having a hard time cutting back on sugar and who is approaching menopause, or who experience alterations in appetite around the time of their period, may find it helpful to talk to a physician or qualified naturopathic doctor. Other signs of PMS or menopause can include mood swings, changes in libido, occasional lack of sleep and fatigue and hot flushes.

3. Gut Bacteria

A high-fibre diet is also a great way to feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut which, in turn, helps reduce the likelihood of yeast overgrowth. Anyone who has recently taken broad spectrum antibiotics or who is on long-term antibiotic therapy is at a higher risk of dysbiosis, a state of microbial imbalance in the gut, where the blanket eradication of bacteria (good and bad) can lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria and microbes, like Candida albicans, that cause yeast infections.

An imbalance in gut bacteria has been associated with altered energy metabolism and even alterations in neurotransmitter levels. The microbes in the gut produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin and communicate with the central nervous system through the vagus nerve. Researchers have found that a diet high in processed foods and simple carbohydrates can dramatically reduce biodiversity in the gut, which could have a significant impact on cognitive function and appetite.

A prebiotic diet that includes fibrous foods like asparagus, artichokes and chickpeas can help to feed good bacteria, while a high quality multistrain probiotic formula can replenish lost beneficial bacteria.

4. Thyroid Health

Thyroid health is another consideration where sugar cravings are concerned, and is best addressed with a qualified health practitioner.

In the meantime, it is important to ensure a good intake of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and lean protein from high fibre plant foods, in addition to cutting back on caffeine and sugar and ensuring you get adequate sleep. Eating sugary foods can increase stress on the body and lead to fluctuating energy levels, so avoid these foods and support your thyroid health.

You may find that simply increasing the level of fibre in your diet, staying hydrated, and getting a good night’s sleep make it much easier to keep those cravings at bay.

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

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Improving Core Strength

Written by Kara Hamada - Posted on 26 November 2015

Improving Core Strength

When talking about core strength, many people’s first thought goes to their abdominal muscles. There’s a lot of mainstream pressure to have a chiseled 6 pack, and many people think that crunches and sit ups are the best way to achieve that. In actuality, the core is incredibly versatile, and working to strengthen it involves a series of exercises targeting different muscles.

The Core Muscle Group

To really understand the core, let’s go over the core muscle group:

Transverse and rectus abdominus: your general stomach muscles.
Obliques: the muscles positioned on your sides.
Lower back, erector spinae, multifidus, and latissimus dorsi: the muscles in your back.
Hip flexors, abductors, adductors: the muscles in your hips and the muscles that run down the inside and outside of your thighs.
Glutes and hamstrings [1]: the butt muscles and the muscles that run down the back of your thighs.

As you can see, many muscles work together to form our core.

Why Core Strength is Important

Balance and Stability. When you strengthen your core, it helps stabilize the muscles in your pelvis, abdomen, hips, and lower back and they begin to work in harmony with one another [2].

Helps prevent injuries. A strong and stable core means your muscles are working together, and muscles that work harmoniously are less prone to injury.

Exercises to Strengthen Your Core

Remember to think of all of the muscles utilized to create your core; upper legs, lower back, glutes, hamstrings, hips, and abdominal muscles. The best types of core strengthening help not only to strengthen but to stabilize your core as well.

Here is a basic core workout that hits a lot of the general core muscles:

1. Supermans

Start on your stomach, arms straight out in front of you and legs straight behind you. In one movement, lift both arms and legs straight up towards the ceiling. Hold for 2-5 seconds then lower back down.

2. Plank

Refer to my previous blog article on how to do a plank with good form.

3. Lying Leg Raise

Start this by putting your hands, palm down, under both glutes. The objective is to position your hands so your lower back is firmly resting on the floor. Keep your legs as straight as possible and slowly raise them perpendicular to the floor. Hold at the top for 1 second then slowly lower back down. If you feel any type of lower back pain with this exercise, stop immediately.

4. Straight Leg Sit Ups

Start lying down, legs straight and arms at your side. Keep your stomach sucked in (while still breathing). Slowly, begin to curl and sit up. First curl your neck up, then slowly start to sit up. The goal is to not let your legs come off of the ground.

5. Glute Bridges

Start on your back, with your legs bent (like a sit up position). Your arms can be at your sides. Push up with your feet, keeping the weight on your heels only. Squeeze your glute muscles, hold for 1-2 seconds, then slowly lower your glutes and push up again with your heels to start your second rep.

Continue to find new ways of strengthening and stabilizing your core muscles, and change up your workouts every 4-6 weeks.

References:

[1] Jensen, Elle. “What Are the Core Muscles of the Body?” LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM, 26 Nov. 2013. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

[2] “Fitness.” Core Exercises: Why You Should Strengthen Your Core Muscles. Mayo Clinic, 18 July 2014. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

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Eating For Your Body Type

Written by Patience Lister - Posted on 24 November 2015

Eating For Your Body Type

There’s no “one size fits all” body, so why follow a “one size fits all” diet? This is the notion behind eating for your body type. It’s an age old concept, practiced through Ayurveda, classical Chinese medicine, and various Western systems.

An important principle in eating for your body type is that your diet and metabolism affect where your body stores extra fat [1] [2]. Below we break down the four most common body shapes, along with the foods that are best suited for each.

1. Apple Shape

Features: Excess abdominal fat with slim arms and legs.

Top foods: Lean proteins and dark leafy greens
Don’t forget: Good fats from coconut oil, nuts, avocados, and eggs
Cut back on: Starchy foods and refined carbs
Smart tip: Keep blood sugar levels already within the normal range steady and cravings curbed

2. Pear Shape

Features: Heavy hips and thighs with a thin upper body.

Top foods: High fibre fruits and vegetables with whole grains, such as oats, quinoa, and rice
Don’t forget: Small portions of lean protein and good fats
Cut back on: Dairy fats, soy, non-organic fruits and vegetables
Smart tip: Avoid foods that may contain pesticides and growth hormones

Inverted Pyramid Shape

Features: Muscular upper body with excess chest and back fat.

Top foods: Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fresh vegetables and fibre rich fruit
Don’t forget: Low fat dairy
Cut back on: Dairy fats, meat, salt
Smart tip: Avoid the afternoon energy slump

Rectangle Shape

Features: Even fat distribution from head to toe.

Top foods: Raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and spices
Don’t forget: Small servings of lean protein
Cut back on: Animal fats and refined carbohydrates
Smart tip: Eat plenty of fibre

No matter what your body type is, you’re sure to benefit from the soluble fibre and 20 g of lean protein in each serving of *PGX Vegan Protein.

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

References:

[1] Mitchell, T. The Belly Burn Plan. Ontario: Harlequin, 2015. Print

[2] Abravanel, E. and Elizabeth King. Dr. Abravanel’s Body Type Diet and Lifetime Nutrition Plan. Bantam Books, 1999. Print.

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6 Quick, High Protein Snacks

Written by Darcy Smith - Posted on 16 November 2015

6 Quick, High Protein Snacks

There’s a big difference between a snack that makes your taste buds happy and one that keeps you energized, strong, and satisfied. And what is the key ingredient for a snack with staying power? Protein.

In one recent study, researchers found that women who ate a snack rich in protein, such as Greek yogurt, stayed full longer than those who ate snacks lacking this important macronutrient. To keep cravings at bay and give your body the tools it needs to thrive, choose snacks that offer up ample amounts of protein.

Benefits of High Protein Snacks

Helps to maintain blood sugar levels already within the normal range: protein makes your body absorb sugar more slowly, so your blood sugar stays stable and you avoid those mid afternoon sugar cravings.
Keeps you fuller, longer: with protein, you’ll find you have fewer cravings and feel more satisfied between meals. This can help steer you away from unhealthy impulse snacks.
Helps to support strong muscles, joints, and bones: protein is an essential part of countless functions in the body. Ensuring you get enough protein helps you maintain healthy muscle mass.
May promote weight loss: The body has to work a bit harder to turn protein into energy than it does glucose (which is why those sugar cravings hit so hard). The result is fewer calories stored.

Here are my favourite quick and easy, protein packed snacks:

1. Celery and Nut Butter

Protein: 8 grams per 1 oz of nut butter
Better known as “ants on a log” (thanks, Mom), this classic snack measures up in the protein category thanks to the nut butter, and the satisfying crunch of celery offers up other healthy nutrients. Whether you make it with peanut, almond, or pumpkin seed butter, it really is the perfect blend of texture, taste, and nutrition. Top with raisins or whole almonds, or sub out the celery for a crisp apple for variety.

2. Protein Bars

Protein: 10-15 grams
You can make your own protein bars from blended nuts, coconut, and dates – as a self-confessed chocoholic, I always add cocoa powder. For the ultra-convenient option, try a ready to go bar, such as Whole Earth & Sea’s Protein Bar. This one’s vegan, organic, and contains greens for bonus nutrition ( plus it’s coated in dark chocolate, so you can see why I’m a fan).

3. Hummus and Veg

Protein: 10 grams per half cup
Who knew this classic party snack was actually nourishing you between dance sets? Nutritious and delicious, hummus is an excellent source of protein. A quick afternoon dip with baby carrots or chopped veggies will keep you sustained through dinner. To make this snack extra convenient, layer a mason jar with hummus, place a few carrot and celery sticks in vertically, screw the lid on, and go!

4. Greek Yogurt

Protein: 15-20 grams per 6 oz
Greek yogurt has more protein than regular yogurt. It’s perfect for a snack, or as a healthier substitute for sour cream or cream cheese. Top with fresh fruit or, for an extra protein boost, nuts and seeds.

5. Smoothies

Protein: Variable
You can mix and match ingredients for an endless array of tasty, protein packed smoothies. They’re quick to whip up and delicious – a winning combo. Nut butters, nuts, seeds, yogurt, dairy or nut milks, and hemp hearts all make for the perfect protein power up. For an extra power boost, add protein powder!

6. Trail Mix

Protein: About 8g per ounce
Found in every corner store and airport snack shop, trail mix is much healthier when you make it at home (and skip the extra salt found in the packaged kind). Mix it up with raw almonds, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, dried fruit – even dark chocolate chips – for a snack that’s ready to go whenever you are.

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Lifting Weights: Tips for Beginners

Written by Darcy Smith - Posted on 9 November 2015

Lifting Weights: Tips for Beginners

You’ve stuck to your cardio routine and you’ve been on your best behaviour in the junk food aisle, but you’re just not getting the results you need. What’s missing?

Many of us discount the importance of strength training when it comes to achieving our health goals. In fact, it’s common to steer clear entirely for fear of adding unwanted muscle bulk. The truth is, you shouldn’t live in fear of lifting – weight training is actually a crucial part of getting fit! As well as building muscle strength, lifting weights can help increase your body’s resting metabolic rate, which means you’ll burn more calories throughout the day.

If you’re just starting out on the weights, these tips will keep you in top shape – and help prevent injuries:

Warm Up

Whether you take a brisk jog or pop off a few lunges, a quick cardio warm-up will loosen up your muscles, increase your range of motion, and get your blood flowing. Strength training with cold muscles may leave you more susceptible to injury.

Start Out Light

There’s no reason to jump straight to the dumbbells – they might not even be your endgame. You’re better off starting with weights that might feel as if they’re too light. Once you’re on your third set of reps, you’ll thank us for this piece of advice. Besides, if you’re going for the strong and lean look, lighter weights are your ticket to success.

Go Slow

Once you’re ready to add weight (if you’re breezing through a couple dozen reps, you’re ready), increase it slowly. The same goes for reps – don’t speed through them; rather, take the time to move mindfully and with control. By going slow, you’ll get better results, and you’ll be protecting both your muscles and joints.

Learn Proper Technique

While there may be several right ways to lift, there is definitely a wrong way – and figuring it out through trial and error (and perhaps injury) is not the way to go.

Proper technique will keep you safe and ensure you’re working the right muscles while avoiding strain. Even just one training session with a personal trainer will help as they’ll show you how to hold the weights, how to stand, and the basic movements that will set you on the right path.

Don’t Swing

It might feel good to get a little momentum going, but swinging rather than lifting decreases the effectiveness of your workout, and opens you up to injury. It’s also a sign that you’re lifting more than you can handle – for now. Be sure to pause after each lift to ensure your muscles are properly engaged and your form is good.

Stretch

Once you’ve strengthened, be sure to stretch! Stretching after lifting weights will help reduce muscle soreness the next day.

Rest

It’s easy to get carried away with weight lifting, so be sure to give your body time to recover. Many strength trainers rotate which areas of the body they focus on for each workout, but unless you’re working out daily, that might not be necessary. Just be sure you’re giving your body time to integrate each workout before you head back to the gym.

Eat Right

Yes, food is an important part of any exercise program, even weight lifting! A small snack of healthy carbs, such as whole grain toast with jam or a banana, an hour before you exercise, will give your muscles the fuel they need to power through your workout. Eating protein afterwards will help speed your recovery time.

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2 Basic Exercises You’re Probably Doing Wrong

Written by Kara Hamada - Posted on 5 November 2015

2 Basic Exercises You’re Probably Doing Wrong

Moving your body and staying active is helpful to maintaining your health. Whether you enjoy leisurely walks around your neighborhood, swimming, hiking, taking aerobic classes or lifting weights, the opportunities are endless to keep your body moving.

As we age, we begin to lose muscle, known as “sarcopenia”. Around 30 years and older, our bodies start losing muscle mass at 3-5% per decade (sedentary lifestyle) [1]. Exercise becomes critically important to help muscle gain, as it stimulates the release of hormones that help with healthy muscle growth [2]. So, on that note – keep that body moving!

Ensuring that the movements you decide to do are done in the right form is crucial to getting the most out of your workouts. Here are two basic exercises you may have been doing wrong, and how to execute them correctly:

1. The Squat

The basic squat is one of the most effective movements for sculpting your legs as they mainly target your glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps. Did you know that your glutes are one of the biggest muscle groups in your body?

If squatting does not feel natural to you, try holding onto something to stabilize yourself in the beginning to get your body used to the movement.

To execute a squat in good form, start with your legs slightly wider than shoulder width apart. Your toes can be pointed forward or slightly out.

Your legs should be slightly wider than shoulder width apart

When you crouch into your squat, lean back like you are sitting into a chair. Do not let your knees move forward over your toes or come together (knock knees). Your chest should be up, and your core should be firm. When you stand up, push up with your heels and squeeze your glutes.

Do not let your knees move forward over your toes or come together. Chest up, core firm.

Do 3 sets of 10 squats, and if possible, watch yourself in a mirror to make sure you’re really sitting back and getting the most out of the squat.

2. The Plank

Planks are a full body workout. It’s better to hold a plank for 20 seconds with proper form than for 1 minute with lousy form! Bad form has been known to cause muscle imbalances and injury.

A great plank is all about alignment and full body effort. Every muscle should be engaged, from your upper traps all the way down to your calves. When you are in position, you want to make sure your elbows are right under your shoulders; try to push away from the ground with your forearms. Your stomach should be tight (do not let your back sag) and think about how you would react if someone sucker punched you in the stomach (I’m serious!). That motion of slightly curling in will make this exercise dominate your abdominal muscles.

Elbows under your shoulders. Stomach should be tight – do not let your back sag!

Start off with increments of 15 seconds at a time to ensure you have good form before going for a full one-minute hold.

There are always modifications to any exercise you do. If your body is not yet at the level of holding a 15 second plank with proper form, you can start off by planking on your knees instead of your feet. Continue to work on this until you feel you can start going for 15 seconds, then progress eventually to 1 minute. The determination and progress you’ll see will make you feel great!

References:

[1]. Cooper, Greg. “At What Age Do You Start to Lose Muscle?”LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM, 14 Sept. 2015. Web. 08 Oct. 2015.

[2]. “Sarcopenia (Muscle Loss With Aging): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments.” WebMD. WebMD, 3 Aug. 2014. Web. 08 Oct. 2015.

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