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FITT Principle of Exercise

4/25/2023

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🏋️‍♀️💪 As we have said before, fitness is all about progress, and the FITT principle is a great way to ensure that you're making the most of your workouts! Here's what it means, and how to use it:
F - Frequency: How often you exercise per week
I - Intensity: How hard you work during exercise
T - Time: How long each exercise session lasts
T - Type: What kind of exercise you do
📝 Here are some tips to help you apply the FITT principle to your workout routine:
  • 🏋️‍♀️ Frequency: Refers to how often you exercise. Aim for at least 3-4 days a week of strength training, and 5-6 days a week of moderate-intensity cardio.
    🏋️‍♀️ Intensity: Refers to how hard you exercise. For strength training, as we have discussed before, choose a weight that allows you to complete 8-12 reps with good form. For cardio, aim for a moderate intensity where you can maintain a conversation but are still breathing harder than normal.
    🏋️‍♀️ Time: Refers to how long you exercise. For strength training, aim for 30-60 minutes per session, depending on your goals and fitness level. For cardio, aim for 30-60 minutes per session, or break it up into smaller sessions throughout the day.
    🏋️‍♀️ Type: Refers to the type of exercise you do. For strength training, focus on compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups, such as squats, lunges, push-ups, and pull-up.  For cardio, choose an activity that you enjoy and that gets your heart rate up, such as walking, running, cycling, or swimming.

🏋️‍♀️👍 Remember, consistency is key! Start slow and gradually work your way up to longer, more intense workouts as you build strength and endurance.

#FITTPrinciple #FitnessGoals #WorkoutTips #inbalance #inbalancefitness #beginnerfitness #seniorfitness 
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Rep ranges and where to begin as a beginner

4/20/2023

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Let's talk some more about rep ranges and how they affect the intensity of your workout, and where to start.

It's always better to start with lighter weights and proper form to prevent injuries.

Once you've established good technique and form, it's time to think about the number of reps you should perform for each exercise and set.

Here are some guidelines to help you get started:
  • 1-5 reps: This range is for more experienced lifters who can handle heavier weights with good form. If you're a beginner, it's best to start with a higher rep range to avoid injuries.
  • 8-12 reps: This is a good range to start with if you're new to strength training, but it may be better to start with a higher rep range to assist with establishing form first. You should use a moderate weight that you can lift with proper form for this number of reps.
  • 12+ reps: This range is great for beginners who want to focus on endurance and building muscle without lifting heavy weights. This range is best to establish form before moving to a higher intensity weight.

As you progress and feel comfortable with your form, you can gradually increase the weight and reps to continue challenging yourself.

At inbalance FITNESS, our certified personal trainers can guide you in safely implementing progressive overload into your strength training routine to establish a habit and avoid injury.

#StrengthTraining #FitnessTips #WorkoutProgression #SafeStrengthTraining #inbalance #inbalancefitness #beginnerworkout #beginnerfitness #seniorfitnessspecialist
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Reps & Sets | One goes up, the other must come down

4/19/2023

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Form first, but once proper form is established, how much weight should you lift? How many reps and sets should you perform each workout? These are common questions that come up in strength training all the time. Let's talk about how volume and intensity relate to each other, and how you should approach these two variables when you are training.

Rep (repetition) ranges: The number of reps you perform determines the intensity of the exercise. In general, the fewer reps you perform, the more weight you can lift. Here are some guidelines for intensity based on rep ranges:
  • 1-5 reps: Heavy weight, high intensity
  • 6-12 reps: Moderate weight, moderate intensity
  • 12+ reps: Lighter weight, lower intensity

Rest between sets: As intensity increases, you'll need longer rest periods between sets to recover. Here are some guidelines for rest periods based on rep ranges:
  • 1-5 reps: 3-5 minutes
  • 6-12 reps: 1-2 minutes
  • 12+ reps: 30-60 seconds

Volume: Volume is the total amount of work you do in a workout. To increase volume, you can either increase the number of sets or reps.

Our expert certified personal trainers at inbalance FITNESS are here to provide guidance and support as you learn the correct form and safe progression for your fitness program. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance and prioritize proper form, intensity and rest to set a solid foundation for your strength training journey!

#FormMatters #ExerciseTechnique #FitnessSafety #StrengthTrainingTips #ProperForm #BeginnersGuide #beginnerworkout #SeniorFitness #safestrengthtraining
#seniorfitnessspecialist #inbalancefitness #inbalance
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FOCUS ON FORM

4/18/2023

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Using correct form and technique is the key to ensuring safe and effective workouts. Maintaining proper form not only helps prevent injuries but also ensures that you are using the right muscles and getting the most out of your exercises.

Here are a few tips for establishing proper form:
  • Focus on quality over quantity - it's better to do fewer reps with proper form than to sacrifice form for more reps. Don't let ego determine how much weight you use.
  • Use mirrors or ask for feedback from your trainer to check your posture and alignment.
  • Slow down. Don't rush through your exercises - take your time to perform each movement with control and precision.
  • Pay attention to your breathing - exhale during the contraction/concentric phase of the exercise (moving from start position to end position). Inhale during the eccentric phase (moving from the finished position back to your start position). DON'T HOLD YOUR BREATH.​

Our expert trainers at inbalance FITNESS are here to provide guidance and support as you learn the correct form for each exercise. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance and prioritize proper form to set a solid foundation for your strength training journey!
#FormMatters #ExerciseTechnique #FitnessSafety #StrengthTrainingTips #ProperForm #BeginnersGuide #beginnerfitness #seniorfitness #seniorfitnessspecialist #inbalance #inbalancefitness
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PROGRESS THROUGH PROGRESSION!

4/18/2023

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​Progressive overload is a key principle in strength training that involves gradually increasing the weight or resistance to continually challenge your muscles and promote strength and prevent injury.

Here are a few tips on how to safely implement progressive overload in your strength training program:

Start with a weight or resistance (body weight, tubing, light dumbbells) that allows you to perform the exercise with proper form and technique.
  • Increase the weight or resistance gradually, typically by 5% or less per week (the heavier the weight, the lower the percentage increase) to challenge your muscles without risking injury.
  • Focus on compound exercises that target multiple muscle groups, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
  • Keep track of your progress by recording your weights, sets, and reps, and aim to gradually increase the workload over time. This is a great way to keep motivated, too.
  • Listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard or lifting weights that are too heavy for you, as it can lead to poor form and increased risk of injury. Don't let ego determine your weight.
At inbalance FITNESS, our certified personal trainers can guide you in safely, and effectively, implementing progressive overload into your strength training routine to achieve optimal results, and avoiding burnout or injury.
#ProgressiveOverload #StrengthTraining #FitnessTips #MuscleGrowth #WorkoutProgression #SafeStrengthTraining #inbalance #inbalancefitness #seniorfitness #seniorfitnessspecialist #tennisfitness #pickleballfitness #golffitness
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IT'S BEAUTIFUL OUTSIDE...GO FOR A WALK

4/10/2023

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Our first and best mode of transportation, and exercise is walking. As we age, walking becomes even more important for our independence, health and well-being!

Here are 3 key benefits:

1️⃣ Maintains Cardiovascular Health: Walking helps improve heart health, lowers risk of heart disease, and maintains healthy blood pressure. 💓

2️⃣ Enhances Bone Health: Weight-bearing walking helps strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. 🦴

​3️⃣ Supports Mental Well-being: Walking boosts mood, reduces stress, and improves cognitive function. 🧠

Make walking a part of your daily routine for a healthier and happier you! Remember if you are just starting out, take it slow, and listen to your body. ​

#WalkingBenefits #HealthyAging #FitnessTips #GetMoving
#WalkingBenefits #HealthyAging #FitnessTips #GetMoving #inbalance #inbalancefitness #womenshealth #SeniorFitness #seniorfitnessspecialist
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Warm-up before you exercise to prevent injury

4/7/2023

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🔥 WARM-UP FIRST  🔥
Before hitting those weights or starting any exercise, it's important to warm up properly. The warm-up is divided into two segments: general and specific. The General Warm-up, is usually light cardio activity that raises the heart rate and warms up the entire body. This should be done first.

Before hitting the weights or starting any exercise session, it's important to warm up properly. The warm-up is generally divided into two segments: general and specific.

The general warm-up, is usually light cardio activity that raises the heart rate and warms up the entire body. This should be done first.

A specific warm-up follows the general warm-up and uses dynamic stretches or light sets of the upcoming exercises to target the muscles you'll be using. This helps prevent injuries, enhances performance, and prepares your body for the workout ahead.

  1. General Warm-up: Get that heart pumping with light cardio like a walk, light jogging or cycling! You should devote about 5-10 minutes to this portion of the warm-up
  2. Specific Warm-up: Focus on the muscles you'll be using in your workout with dynamic stretches and/or light sets of upcoming exercises! Body-weight squats, push-ups, and lunges could all be used in your dynamic warm-up.

Remember, a proper warm-up helps prevent injuries, boosts performance, and sets you up for success! Don't skip it! #WarmUp #FitnessTips #InjuryPrevention #GetFit #seniorfitnessspecialist #beginnerworkout #inbalance #inbalancefitness
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Strength training and your metabolism

4/6/2023

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We mentioned metabolism in yesterday's post. Let's dive a little deeper into the role of metabolism in your health. First and foremost, it plays a crucial role in how your body uses energy. It's like your "engine" that determines how fast or slow your body burns calories. And, strength training can actually help improve your metabolism and assist in managing conditions like diabetes!

Here are 3 ways strength training can benefit your metabolic health:
  1. Build muscle: When you do strength training, you're actually building muscle. Muscles burn more calories even when you're just sitting or resting, which means a higher metabolism and more efficient calorie burning!
  2. Help with blood sugar control: Strength training has been shown to improve how your body uses insulin, which is a hormone that helps regulate your blood sugar levels. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with diabetes as it can help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve overall blood sugar control.
  3. Burn more fat: Strength training can actually help your body burn more fat, which can be beneficial for weight management and metabolic health.

At inbalance FITNESS, our personalized strength training programs are designed to help you achieve your fitness goals while also improving your metabolic health. Let's work together to build a healthier, stronger you!

#inbalanceFITNESS #strengthtraining #metabolichealth #diabetesmanagement #seniorfitness #seniorfitnessspecialist #beginnerfitness #beginnerfitnessjourney
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A few benefits of strength training

4/6/2023

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Next step in establishing a healthy habit, is picking a healthy habit. So let's talk about a strength program. Building strength has many benefits. It can help you feel more confident, improve your bone density, and boost your metabolism (burn more calories).

Here are some tips to establish a strength program and make it a habit: Remember, slow and steady. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Think of exercise as medicine. You want the correct dose to have the most effective response.

  1. Start with bodyweight exercises: Bodyweight exercises are a great way to build strength and improve your form without needing any equipment.
  2. Find a workout buddy: Working out with a friend can help keep you motivated and accountable.
  3. Track your progress: Keep a log of your workouts and track your progress over time. This can help you see how far you've come and keep you motivated.

At inbalance FITNESS, we offer personal training and fitness coaching that can help you establish a strength program and achieve your fitness goals. Let us help you make strength training a healthy habit.

#inbalanceFITNESS
#strengthtraining #fitnesscoaching #seniorfitness #seniorfitnessspecialist #beginnerfitness
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Strategies for establishing a healthy habit

4/3/2023

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📚 Let's build on our last post about creating a healthy habit.

​Did you know that it takes an average of 66 days to form a new habit? That's why at inbalance FITNESS, we believe in taking small, sustainable steps to establish healthy habits that last a lifetime. Here are some science-backed tips to help you make healthy habits a part of your daily routine:
1️⃣ Use "implementation intentions": This means planning exactly when and where you will perform a new habit. For example, "After I wake up, I will do 10 minutes of stretching in the living room." In other words, put it in your schedule, same time, same days, same place to make it easier to establish the habit.
2️⃣ Create a cue: Choose a cue that triggers the behavior you want to establish. For example, if you want to start meditating, use a specific sound or scent to signal the start of your practice. Often, music is a great cue. Put together some of your favorite songs for your workout.
3️⃣ Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself when you slip up, and remember that forming new habits is a process that takes time and patience. This is the big one, be kind to yourself. The trick is to get back on the "habit horse" as soon as possible if you fall off.
At inbalance FITNESS, we offer personal training and fitness coaching that focuses on sustainable lifestyle changes. Let us help you establish healthy habits and achieve your fitness goals. #inbalanceFITNESS #healthylifestyle #fitnesscoaching
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Establishing healthy habits

3/31/2023

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Establishing a healthy lifestyle starts with making healthy habits. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1️⃣ Start small: Choose one habit to focus on at a time. Once it becomes part of your routine, add another.

2️⃣ Consistency is key: Stick to your routine even when you don't feel like it. The more consistent you are, the easier it will become. Try something consistently 5 days a week for 30 days.

3️⃣ Be accountable: Find a workout buddy or coach to help keep you on track.

At inbalance FITNESS, we provide personal training and fitness coaching to help you establish healthy habits and achieve your fitness goals.

#inbalanceFITNESS #fitnesscoaching #healthylifestyle
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Get some balance back in your life

3/28/2023

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As you get older, your balance may not be as good as it used to be. This can affect your ability to do everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or dancing. It can also increase your risk of falling and injuring yourself.

Balance exercises are an important part of your fitness routine, especially as you age. They can help you improve your stability, coordination, and posture. They can also strengthen your core muscles, which support your spine and pelvis. And they can boost your confidence and well-being, as you feel more independent and mobile.

In this post, we will share some of the benefits of balance exercises for seniors, and show you some simple moves you can try at home. You don't need any special equipment or a lot of space to do them. All you need is a chair for support, and a yoga mat for comfort.

Benefits of Balance Exercises for Seniors

Balance exercises can help you:

- Prevent falls and injuries. Falls are a leading cause of injury and death among older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of four people aged 65 and older falls each year. Balance exercises can help you improve your reaction time, reduce your fear of falling, and increase your ability to recover from a loss of balance.
- Improve your mobility and function. Balance exercises can help you maintain or improve your ability to perform daily tasks, such as getting out of bed, dressing, bathing, cooking, or shopping. They can also help you enjoy recreational activities, such as gardening, golfing, or dancing.
- Enhance your brain health. Balance exercises can stimulate your brain and improve your cognitive function. They can also reduce your risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, which are associated with impaired balance and gait.
- Support your mental health. Balance exercises can boost your mood and self-esteem, as you feel more capable and confident. They can also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are common among older adults.

Balance Exercises for Seniors: 3 Moves to Try


Here are some balance exercises you can do at home. You can do them while wearing shoes or barefoot. Shoes may give you more grip and stability, while being barefoot can help strengthen the muscles that stabilize your feet.

Use a chair for support if you need it. Modify the poses as much as you need. Over time, you will increase your balance and be able to move onto more difficult variations and exercises.

Start with a simple warm-up, such as marching in place or doing some shoulder rolls. Then try these 11 moves:

1. Rock the boat

![Rock the boat](https://www.healthline.com/hlcmsresource/images/healthline_content/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors/rock-the-boat.jpg)

Stand with your feet hip-distance apart. Lift your arms and extend them out to the sides.

Lift your left foot off the floor and bend your knee to bring your heel toward your bottom.

Hold this position for up to 30 seconds.

Then do the opposite side.

Do each side 3 times.

2. Weight shifts

![Weight shifts](https://www.healthline.com/hlcmsresource/images/healthline_content/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors/weight-shifts.jpg)

Stand with your feet hip-width apart.

Shift your weight onto your right foot.

Raise your left foot.

Hold this position for up to 30 seconds.

Then do the opposite side.

Do each side 3 times.

3. Tightrope walk

![Tightrope walk](https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/ss/slideshow-balance-exercises-for-seniors?ecd=wnl_spr_122221&ctr=wnl-spr-122221_nsl-LeadModule_cta&mb=0w%2f%40%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f)

This simple exercise improves balance, posture, and core strength.

Lift your arms and extend them out to the sides.

Walk in a straight line while focusing your gaze on a fixed point in the distance.

Place one foot directly in front of the other with each step.

Take 10 steps forward, then turn around and walk back.

Repeat 3 times.

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The importance of rest in your exercise program

3/21/2023

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Recovery time after moderate to intense exercise is essential to allow the body to repair and adapt to the stress of exercise. The amount of recovery time needed depends on the intensity and duration of the exercise, as well as an individual's fitness level and training goals.

For moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, it is recommended to have at least one day of rest or low-intensity exercise between sessions. This allows the body to recover and adapt to the stress of exercise, reducing the risk of injury and improving performance in subsequent sessions.
For intense exercise, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or heavy weightlifting, it is recommended to have two or more days of rest or low-intensity exercise between sessions. This allows the body to fully recover and repair any damage caused by the exercise, reducing the risk of injury and improving performance in subsequent sessions.

It is important to note that recovery time also depends on an individual's fitness level and training goals. Someone who is just starting an exercise program may need more recovery time than someone who is more fit and accustomed to intense exercise. Similarly, athletes or individuals training for a specific event may need to adjust their recovery time to optimize their performance.
​
In general, listen to your body and allow for adequate recovery time after exercise. If you feel excessively sore, fatigued, or have any pain or discomfort, it may be a sign that you need more recovery time. Consult with a healthcare provider or a certified exercise professional to create an individualized exercise plan and determine the appropriate recovery time for your specific needs.
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Let's talk about exercise intensity and frequency

3/21/2023

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Let's talk about the recommended exercise duration, intensity, and frequency from the top organizations in health and fitness. In the fitness industry we call it FITT (frequeny, intensity, time and type). 
Strength training is recommended at least two days per week, targeting all major muscle groups. The ACSM recommends 2-3 sets of 8-12 repetitions for each exercise, with a weight that is challenging but can be completed with proper form. Note that oftentimes, higher weight and lower reps will be used for improving strength and power, while lower weight and higher reps typically can improve muscle endurance.

For cardiovascular exercise, the ACSM recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week, spread throughout the week. The ACE also recommends a similar duration of exercise, with a target heart rate zone of 50-85% of the individual's maximum heart rate.
Stretching exercises are also recommended, preferably after a warm-up and at the end of a workout. The ACSM recommends holding each stretch for 10-30 seconds, repeating each stretch two to four times. Stretching can improve flexibility and range of motion, reduce risk of injury, and improve posture.
As with any new endeavor, go slow. Focus on getting the form right first, then you can increase intensity. The goal is establishing a lifestyle change that follows you throughout your life. So consistency is key.

​It is important to note that the exercise recommendations may vary depending on an individual's age, health status, and fitness level. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider or a certified exercise professional to create an individualized exercise plan. 
References:
  1. American College of Sports Medicine. (2020). ACSM's guidelines for exercise testing and prescription. Wolters Kluwer.
  2. American Council on Exercise. (n.d.). ACE Personal Trainer Manual.
  3. American Medical Association. (2013). Healthier life steps: An AMA guide to prevent type 2 diabetes. American Medical Association.
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The benefits of strength training as we age

3/20/2023

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Strength training has been proven to provide numerous benefits for older adults. According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), strength training can help increase muscle mass and bone density, improve joint flexibility, balance and stability, reduce the risk of falls, and enhance overall functional ability. Additionally, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends strength training as a way to combat age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia.

Strength training also has a positive effect on chronic conditions that are common in older adults. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), strength training can help lower blood pressure, improve blood glucose levels, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, strength training can help manage symptoms of arthritis, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
To achieve these benefits, older adults can perform strength training exercises using free weights, resistance bands, machines, or bodyweight. It is important for older adults to work with a certified personal trainer to ensure proper form and technique, and to develop an individualized strength training program that meets their specific needs and abilities.

In conclusion, strength training is a safe and effective way for older adults to improve their health and well-being. As stated by NASM, ACSM, and ACE, strength training can help increase muscle mass and bone density, improve joint flexibility, balance, and stability, reduce the risk of falls, and enhance overall functional ability. It can also help manage chronic conditions commonly found in older adults. Therefore, older adults should prioritize strength training in their exercise routine to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
  • Sources: National Academy of Sports Medicine. (n.d.). Benefits of strength training for older adults. https://blog.nasm.org/fitness/benefits-of-strength-training-for-older-adults
  • American College of Sports Medicine. (2011). ACSM position stand: Progression models in resistance training for healthy adults. https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/fulltext/2009/03000/ACSM_Position_Stand__Progression_Models_in.20.aspx
  • American Council on Exercise. (2017). Strength training for seniors. https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/6422/strength-training-for-seniors/
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