Cross Training
One of the biggest misconceptions about exercise is that there is "one" program that works for someone all the time. People think that they need to get on a particular workout program and just keeping doing that program over and over again. Although...
Going Basic With Natural Bodybuilding
It’s quite obvious that the ultimate goal of serious gym-goers is bodybuilding. We’re not talking about the sport here where men and women in bulk are being showcased. What we’re talking about though is natural bodybuilding, the newest health...
HOW DO I BEGIN A FAT LOSS PLAN?…LET ME COUNT THE WAYS!
Most people are unsure about how to begin a fat loss program. They have many questions about food choices, meal composition and exercise. Getting yourself in good physical condition will require willpower and dedication and the desire to get...
How Many Reps and Sets To Build Muscle
One of the most asked questions I get while training others is
how many reps and sets of an exercise are needed to achieve lean
muscle growth, strength increase, and an overall improvement in
body composition.
Reps
The desired...
Living Up to YOUR Fitness Potential!
This article will focus not only on seeing the results that you want but is also about being the best that you can be! Many people limit themselves because their judgments are based upon what they see now in the mirror rather than on what lies...
Getting Strong For Capoeira
Copyright 2005 strength-training-woman.com
Capoeira is all the buzz these days. I turned on the TV the other night to see a Capoeiristas (one that enjoys this sport/game) having a full makeover. On top of that, I went to a Cirque De Soleil show a few months back, and guess what they had plenty of? You guessed it. Capoeiristas
Capoeira is a martial arts form that originated in Brazil over 500 years ago. Today it is also thought of as an exercise or a game. Usually two people will enter in a circle and begin to do sweeps, kicks, and other martial art moves.
As a personal trainer, I am in and out of many health clubs. I began seeing Capoeira as the newest buzz in fitness classes. It is quickly becoming the new trend for health clubs. But I really started learning about Capoeira when a client of mine asked about ways she could strengthen her body to perform better. To be honest, I was at a complete loss of words. I had no clue what she was talking about.
I did some research on this exciting game/sport and developed a functional program for her to use. The Capoeirista had been working out using
traditional machines and exercises. After my research I knew she really had to move in a different direction. No pun intended.
We started functional training. That means doing moves and exercises that are consistent with everyday tasks: lifting, jumping, pulling and pushing. We introduced exercises like the squat, lunges, push-ups, explosive lunges and dead-lifts. Each exercise focused on strengthening the muscles for quick, no-time-to-think movements.
After a few months of training, this Capoeirista was ready to get back into the circle. Her body was functionally stronger, and it showed in her kicks, leaps, and jumps.
If you enjoy Capoeira or another martial arts form, consider functional exercise and strength training as friends. Building a body for your specific sport or interest will ensure many years of healthy competition.
Lynn VanDyke is the owner of http://www.strength-training-woman.com . She is a certified personal trainer, yoga instructor and sport nutritionist. Her No Limits ezine is quickly becoming a must-read for fitness enthusiasts.