Author: trainitright
First Ever Effective Intervention Against Dementia Shown in Large Study
(SAN FRANCISCO, CA) — Researchers just published the first randomized controlled trial ever to show an intervention effective at lowering the risk of dementia. A computerized brain exercise licensed exclusively by Posit Science, maker of the online (and in app) BrainHQ brain training platform, significantly reduced the risk of dementia among older adults over a 10-year period, according to an article in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions, a peer-reviewed journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Relatively small amounts of training resulted in a decrease in risk of dementia over the 10-year period of 29 percent, as compared to the control,” said Dr. Jerri Edwards, lead author of the article and a Professor at the University of South Florida, College of Medicine, “And, when we looked at dose-response, we saw that those who trained more got more protective benefit.”
To place the size and importance of this protective effect in context, the researchers quantitatively compared the risk reduction for dementia from the computerized brain training to the risk reduction for major cardiovascular events (such as heart failure, heart disease and stroke) yielded by blood pressure medications, and found that this non-pharmacological intervention had a 2-4 times greater protective effect against its targeted disease condition.
“No health professional would suggest that any person with hypertension forego the protection offered by prescribed blood pressure medication,” observed Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science. “We expect these results will cause the medical community to take a much closer look at the many protective benefits of these exercises in both older and clinical populations.”
The journal article, “Speed of Processing Training Results in Lower Risk of Dementia,” reports on the latest results from the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) Study, funded by the National Institutes of Health. That study followed 2,802 healthy older adults for 10 years (as they aged from an average of 74 to 84).
The ACTIVE Study looked at the impact on aging of different types of cognitive training by randomizing participants into a control group and three intervention arms: 1) a memory group receiving classroom instruction on memory strategies; 2) a reasoning group receiving classroom instruction on reasoning strategies; and 3) a speed of processing group receiving individualized computerized brain training in a classroom setting. Participants in the cognitive training groups were asked to engage in a total of 10 sessions of training (about an hour per session) conducted over the first five weeks of the study.
All participants were assessed on a number of cognitive and functional measures at the beginning of the study, after the first six weeks, and at the end of years 1, 2, 3, 5 and 10. Subsets of each intervention group also received four additional “booster” training sessions in the weeks before the assessments at the end of years 1 and 3.
At the end of 10 years, researchers found no significant difference in incidence of dementia for the strategy-based memory or reasoning training groups, as compared to the control group. However, the speed of processing group engaged in computerized brain training showed a significant reduction in incidence of dementia – with a 29 percent reduction in the hazard of dementia.
When reviewing the impact of each computerized speed training session completed, researchers found those who completed more sessions had lower risk. The researchers also reported on the dementia incidence rate of those who completed the most sessions of each type of training (including five or more booster sessions) and the control. The incident rate of dementia for those who completed the most sessions in speed training (at 5.9 percent) was 45 percent lower than the control (at 10.8 percent); 42 percent lower than the incidence rate for those who did the most memory training (at 10.1 percent); and 39 percent lower than the incidence rate for those who did the most reasoning training (at 9.7 percent). Only the comparison of the entire speed group to the control was reported as significant.
The newly published results confirm and extend preliminary results first announced last year. Those results used a broader definition of dementia to reflect the under-reporting of dementia in the community. The preliminary results, indicating a 33 percent reduction in risk, relative to the control are contained in this report. However, to be more conservative, the authors now also include and highlight a narrower definition of dementia (restricted to reports of a dementia diagnosis or falling below a cut-point on a standard test). Even with the narrower definition, the effects are substantially similar – with a 29 percent reduction in dementia risk (at any given point in time) for the overall speed group as compared to the control.
Participants in the computerized brain training group were trained on a highly specific task designed to improve the speed and accuracy of visual attention, including both divided and selective attention. To perform the divided attention training task, a user identified an object (i.e., car or truck) at the center of gaze while at the same time locating a target in the periphery (i.e., car). As the user gets the answers correct, the speed of presentation becomes faster. In the more difficult training tasks, the target in the periphery is obscured by distracting objects.
There is substantial prior scientific literature on this training exercise, which is referred to as “speed of processing training”, “useful field of view training”, or “UFOV training.” The exercise was developed by Dr. Karlene Ball of the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Dr. Dan Roenker of Western Kentucky University. It is now exclusively licensed to Posit Science, and is available as the “Double Decision” exercise of the BrainHQ.com brain training program.
The paper notes that this particular type of computerized brain training, as updated by its inventors and Posit Science over the years, has previously been shown effective across multiple clinical trials in older adults on standard measures on cognitive abilities (e.g., speed of processing, attention and memory) and functional abilities (e.g., maintaining the ability to live independently, depressive symptoms, feelings of control, and health-related quality of life), as well as in real world activities (e.g., driving safety, balance and gait). In other studies in pre-dementia conditions, it has shown improvements in cognitive and functional abilities, as well as brain structure.
“This study highlights that not all cognitive training is the same,” said Dr. Edwards. “Plasticity-based, computerized, speed of processing training has differentiated itself based both on the data and on the neurophysiological model from which it was developed.”
“There are now well over 100 peer-reviewed studies on the benefits of our brain exercises and assessments across varied populations,” said Dr. Mahncke. “The neuroplasticity-based mechanisms that drive beneficial changes across the brain from this type of training are well-documented, and are increasingly understood even by brain scientists not directly involved in their development. This type of training harnesses plasticity to engage the brain in an upward spiral toward better physical and functional brain health.”
“We work with a global team of independent researchers who are continuously pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the brain,” Dr. Mahncke observed. “We expect many more exciting announcements in the year ahead, and we plan to work with the medical community and regulators to expand beyond our wellness and performance offerings to assist people with specific medical conditions and concerns.”
How to train like a Black Friday superhero
With Canadians set to kick off their holiday shopping this Black Friday, shops and malls across Canada promise to be packed starting November 24. Nearly half of Canadians (48%) shopped on Black Friday in 2016, a sign we’re adopting the annual retail ritual started by our U.S. neighbours.
But with crowds of eager shoppers hitting the malls all at once, there’s a reason shopping can be tiring and stressful. You’re on your feet for long periods of time, you’re surrounded by people and often need to carry your shopping bags through packed stores and hallways, then lug them out to your car. Black Friday shopping can also bring you down mentally, causing stress, fatigue and even a roller coaster of euphoria and regret.
Believe it or not, it’s possible to become a Black Friday superhero by training in advance. Maureen ‘Mo’ Hagan, VP of program innovation with GoodLife Fitness says by exercising and eating right, you can prepare yourself to face the mobs and score some sweet deals. Here are some ideas:

Cardio to build stamina: Hit the treadmill, pedal as fast as you can in an RPM class, or kick and punch your way through a BODYCOMBAT class. You can also go for a brisk 30-minute walk or jog three times a week to build up your heart health so you can power march through the malls.
Stretch and strengthen lower back and legs: Lots of standing in line can take its toll on your lower back and legs. Try some calf raises to improve circulation and always include squats in your workouts to promote joint movement. Hagan recommends a BODYPUMP barbell class to build quads and glutes. Other exercises to strengthen your lower half include walking lunges or single leg bench squats to build glutes. The cat/camel stretch is a great option to loosen the lower back.
Functional moves to carry bags, reach shelves: Part of the exhaustion that comes with holiday shopping is juggling hangers, reaching for boxes and carrying shopping bags. Build in exercises that mimic these activities, working your abs, shoulders, back, and glutes. Or try out a group fitness class like CXWORX to target all these areas into one 30-minute workout.
Core stability to push through the doors: Core strength will help shoppers maintain their place in a crowd, as well as support your body as you carry your purchases to the car. To build core strength, Hagan suggests crunches, glute bridges, planks, and side hovers as basic exercises that will help stabilize the core muscles.
Hydrate, whole grain carbs and protein for stamina: When we hit the shops, the temptation is to start the day with a coffee and a muffin, then hit the food court for lunch. Treat your Black Friday shopping like a hike or a camping trip. It’s OK to have coffee and some treats but try to eat foods that give you energy and keep you full longer – like yoghurt, berries, oatmeal, almonds, spinach salad with chicken. Most of all, bring along your water bottle to stay hydrated. This combo will keep you energized and refreshed so you don’t drop while you shop.
Take time to breathe: Big crowds, long hours and lots of spending can take its toll on your positive attitude and increase stress. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, step to the side and take a break. Focus on your breathing, sip some water, or just chat with your friend to give your mind a break and regain perspective. Know when it’s time to call it quits.
Personal trainers in your area are available to talk more about (and demonstrate) fitness moves to invest in the upcoming shopping marathon season. Please let me know if you’re interested in arranging an interview.
Launch of Finding Quality Addiction Care in Canada an Information Guide for Canadians on Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Use
CALGARY, Nov. 13, 2017 /CNW/ - Today the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) and the Canadian Executive Council on Addictions (CECA) are pleased to announce the release of Finding Quality Addiction Care in Canada, a national guide developed to help individuals and families make informed decisions when seeking treatment for alcohol and drug use problems.
CCSA and CECA developed the guide in partnership with the Government of Alberta to raise awareness among Albertans about treatment options and to offer guidance to individuals seeking to access treatment in the province.
The guide has national applicability and is accessible to all Canadians. The content, informed by those with lived experience, includes an overview of how to determine if treatment is required; information and considerations for various treatment options; important questions individuals should ask when talking to an addiction or other healthcare professional; and a list of resources across the country for individuals seeking treatment.
Up until now, Canadians have had difficulty obtaining information on what quality care for addiction and substance use disorders looks like and how to gain access to it. Finding Quality Addiction Care in Canada addresses this gap by providing reliable information on what is already available. It empowers individuals and families with knowledge about treatment options.
"Deciding to get help for a substance use disorder is a critically important decision in an individual's life," said Rita Notarandrea, CEO, CCSA. "However, it is often difficult for individuals to navigate through a complex and fragmented system of care. This guide provides the basic information that an individual and his or her loved ones need to make informed decisions about treatment and care."
"When any Albertan struggling with substance use reaches out for help, we want to make sure they know where to find it," said Alberta Associate Minister of Health Brandy Payne. "Our government is proud to support the development of this national guide to provide information for Albertans and their families seeking information and options for treatment. This tool will help make the process of finding those supports and programs a little easier."
"CECA is proud to have partnered with the Government of Alberta and CCSA on this important resource that should be shared with all Canadians," said Barry Andres, President, CECA. "It can be overwhelming to determine how to get help for an addiction as there are many treatment options. We hope this guide assists those interested in treatment by discussing the options and what to look for in a quality treatment centre."
Finding Quality Addiction Care in Canada is now available on the CCSA website and on the websites for Alberta Health Services and CECA. It will also be distributed to partners and stakeholders nationwide and promoted through social media campaign at @CCSACanada and @GoAHealth.
About CECA and CCSA
CECA is a national, non-governmental organization established in April 2002. The members of CECA are senior executives of addiction agencies that have a recognized federal, provincial or territorial mandate. The aim of the organization is to mobilize a common national agenda, together with other key stakeholders, that makes a difference to those affected by addiction, and to provide leadership in transforming the healthcare system's response to substance use.
CCSA is Canada's only agency with a legislated national mandate to reduce the harms of alcohol and other drugs on Canadians. We do so by gathering the latest evidence and promoting that evidence widely. Created by an Act of Parliament in 1988, CCSA's vision is for a healthier Canadian society where evidence transforms approaches to substance use. Our mission is to address issues of substance use by providing national leadership and harnessing the power of evidence to generate coordinated action to inform policy, practice and programs.
The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction changes lives by bringing people and knowledge together to reduce the harm of alcohol and other drugs on society. We partner with public, private and non-governmental organizations to improve the health and safety of Canadians.
CCSA activities and products are made possible through a financial contribution from Health Canada. The views of CCSA do not necessarily represent the views of the Government of Canada.
SOURCE Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction
Statement by Rita Notarandrea, CEO, on National Addictions Awareness Week
OTTAWA, Nov. 12, 2017 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA), I am pleased to join the many committed individuals and organizations across the country participating in National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW) 2017.
Today, one in 10 Canadians struggle with addiction and problematic substance use. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, in 2017 deaths related to opioid use alone could well surpass 3,000. At the same time, thousands of individuals across the country are successfully pursuing their own pathways to recovery.
It is clear that the issues surrounding problematic substance use and addiction are as complex as they are consequential. However, as individuals we can all play a simple role in addressing a basic but critical barrier for those individuals with problematic substance use and addiction.
This year, CCSA is putting the spotlight on the stigma surrounding substance use disorders — specifically, how stigmatizing language can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and act as a barrier to seeking help and sustaining recovery. The truth is simple: the words we use when talking about problematic substance use and addiction … matter.
Words Matter
Harvard University's Dr. John Kelly, founder of the Recovery Research Institute, inspires this year's theme for NAAW. His clinical and research work has focused on the science of recovery, and on reducing stigma among those suffering from addiction.
Dr. Kelly's research shows that the language we use has a very direct effect on how we view people struggling with addiction. For example, referring to individuals as suffering from "substance use disorders" rather than as "substance abusers" is likely to reduce stigma and actually enhance treatment and recovery.
As individuals, we can educate ourselves about the essential nature of addiction as a health condition. We can also ensure that the language we use is consistent with the nature of the condition. Finally, we can support those who put a face and a voice to recovery, to show that it is attainable.
Simply put, we need to reinforce what the science has taught us about addiction. Addiction does not discriminate — it impacts people from all walks of life. It is not a moral failing and it is not a "choice."
With that in mind, and with assistance from several friends and colleagues, CCSA has highlighted these simple, but essential, elements to address stigma through a series of short video clips, social media content and information sheets.
We spoke with Dr. Kenneth Tupper, Director, Implementation and Partnerships, at the British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, and adjunct professor, University of British Columbia's School of Population and Public Health, who shared his views on the stigmatizing terminology of addiction.
We also lend a voice to Recovery Day Ottawa chairman, Gord Garner, and musicians Jaaji and Chelsey June, all of whom shared their unique perspectives on stigma and recovery. Together, they remind us that people are at the heart of problematic substance use.
CCSA is committed to ensuring those with substance use disorders receive the timely care they need from our healthcare system, at the same level and quality as those with any other health condition. Using language that accurately portrays what the research has taught us is crucial. I hope this year's NAAW will serve as a reminder moving forward. People suffering with a substance use disorder matter. Addiction matters. Words matter.
Throughout the week, we encourage you to follow the conversation at #WordsMatter and #NAAW2017 on twitter @CCSACanada and @CCDUSCanada to help support the efforts of individuals and organizations throughout Canada as we mark NAAW 2017.
Rita Notarandrea, M.H.Sc., C.H.E.
Chief Executive Officer
Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction
CCSA was created by Parliament to provide national leadership to address substance use in Canada. A trusted counsel, we provide national guidance to decision makers by harnessing the power of research, curating knowledge and bringing together diverse perspectives.
CCSA activities and products are made possible through a financial contribution from Health Canada. The views of CCSA do not necessarily represent the views of the Government of Canada.
SOURCE Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction
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“The Cost of Complacency”
Medicare Enrollment Deadline Looms
New Report Reveals Seniors More Likely to Comparison Shop for Groceries, Gas and Cable than Medicare Plan
Advice for Seniors When Choosing Healthcare
SATELLITE INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY
Thursday, November 21, 2017
7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. ET
Healthcare costs rank most burdensome among common living expenses for seniors, yet seniors are more likely to comparison shop for groceries, gas, cable and internet service and even travel deals, than they are to shop for a Medicare plan. That’s according to a new survey “The Cost of Complacency,” which reveals surprising perceptions and behaviors among seniors when it comes to healthcare.
Only one-third of seniors reported they comparison shop for a Medicare plan at all, and only approximately one in three seniors (38 percent) review their Medicare plan annually to determine if they are getting the best deal.
Given that healthcare spending is expected to increase year over year for the vast majority of seniors, and that virtually every Medicare plan changes each year, seniors could be missing out on savings, and putting their retirement savings at risk if they aren’t planning ahead.
On November 21 [TIME], Bart Astor, author and well-known expert in life's transitions and eldercare, will discuss the risks faced by seniors when they don’t take the time to review their Medicare plans, as well as what to look for in reviewing a Medicare plan, before enrollment closes. These decisions can affect seniors in both the near and long-term.
Suggested Questions for Bart
● Tell us about the Cost of Complacency survey.
● Is it too late for seniors to review their Medicare options for 2018?
● Is a low premium always the best option for seniors?
● What additional tips and advice do you have for seniors when choosing a Medicare plan?
About Bart Astor
Bart Astor is a recognized expert in life's transitions and eldercare. He's the author of the Washington Post bestseller, AARP Roadmap for the Rest of Your Life: Smart Choices about Money, Health, Work, Lifestyle, and Pursuing Your Dreams, and the best-selling book, Baby Boomer's Guide to Caring for Aging Parents
Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction Hosts Canada's Largest National Conference on Prevention, Harm Reduction, Treatment and Recovery
CALGARY, Nov. 13, 2017 /CNW/ - Today marks the start of the 7th Issues of Substance (IOS) conference, hosted by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. IOS is Canada's only national conference to bring together addiction workers, healthcare professionals, researchers, policy makers, knowledge brokers and those with lived and living experience from across the country to address the harms of substance use and addiction.
The theme for the conference is Addiction Matters and the presentations, workshops and keynote panels scheduled over the three-days of the conference were carefully chosen to reflect the latest research, innovative ideas and urgent issues in the substance use and addiction fields.
"Addiction and problematic substance use touches us all," said CCSA Chief Executive Officer, Rita Notarandrea. "This conference brings together representatives of a fragmented, but passionate system of services and supports dedicated to helping the six million Canadians — our mothers and sisters, fathers and brothers, neighbours and friends — touched by this health disorder."
This year, a sold-out audience of 480 conference attendees will discuss emerging issues, review the latest evidence on substance use and addiction, learn from esteemed experts about what is working and identify key areas that require improvement.
Presentations and workshops will focus on the harmful use of prescription drugs and the spike in fatal overdoses from the opioid fentanyl, characterized as a death epidemic. Additional sessions will explore the changing cannabis landscape, as well as other critical issues such as binge drinking on campuses and driving under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. Keynote presentations and panels are scheduled for each day of the conference and will feature high-profile, subject-matter experts who are ready to discuss key issues including the opioid crisis and alcohol (see schedule on the following page).
We are very pleased to welcome the federal Minister of Health, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, and Alberta's Associate Minister of Health, the Honourable Brandy Payne, to our conference this year. Associate Minister Payne will deliver remarks on the first day of the conference. Minister Petitpas Taylor will deliver closing remarks on the last day of the conference.
"I am pleased to be a part of this conference and encouraged to join stakeholders in discussing this important issue," said Minister Petitpas Taylor. "Addressing substance use disorder requires collaboration by all levels of government, along with researchers, health experts and frontline workers, and, perhaps most importantly, those with lived and living experience. I commend all of you for your dedication to this cause, and reaffirm our government's commitment to taking action to reduce the harms associated with substance use disorder."
"Taking action to address the opioid crisis is a key priority for our government," said Associate Minister Payne. "Working with our partners in prevention, treatment, harm reduction and recovery is essential in supporting Albertans living with substance use and their loved ones. I commend CCSA for organizing this conference and bringing together a diverse group of individuals and organizations to support greater knowledge and open conversation on ways we can work together to address substance use."
This year IOS coincides with National Addictions Awareness Week, for which CCSA is putting the spotlight on the stigma surrounding substance use and addiction — more specifically, on how stigmatizing language can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and act as a barrier to those seeking help and sustaining recovery. More information is available at www.ccsa.ca/Eng/newsevents/national-addictions-awareness-week.
CCSA would like to acknowledge and thank the IOS conference Gold Sponsor, Éduc'alcool, as well the Canadian Institute for Health Information, the Canadian Institute of Health Research, the Mental Health Commission of Canada, the Canadian Executive Council on Addictions, Alberta Innovates and the Palix Foundation whose contributions made this event possible.
The conference is being held at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, 700 Centre Street S, Calgary, Alberta, from November 13–15. A number of report and project releases have been planned throughout the conference. Please see the schedule on the following page for further details.
Learn more about IOS 2017 or view the program and abstracts at www.issuesofsubstance.ca.
Media are invited to attend; please see the accompanying schedule. Onsite, accredited media are to identify themselves at the registration desk to receive their media pass, which must be visible at all times. Media are encouraged to RSVP in advance or pre-arrange interviews by emailing to media@ccsa.ca.
Conference Events Open to Media
| Date | Session Title and Speakers | Time (MST) |
| Mon., Nov. 13 | Opening Remarks and Welcome
Michael Prospero, Board Member, Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction Honourable Associate Minister of Health, Brandy Payne, Government of Alberta |
8:30— 9:00 a.m. |
| Mon., Nov. 13 | Keynote Address: Alberta Family Wellness Initiative: Can One Story Change Everything to Improve Health and Well-being Outcomes?
Presented by Nancy Mannix, Palix Foundation |
9:00— 10:00 a.m. |
| Mon., Nov. 13 | iPoliticsLIVE Panel: Good Health as We Age: Perspectives on Substance Use and Aging
Panelists: Franco Vaccarino, CCSA's Scientific Advisory Council, University of Guelph Alastair Flint, University of Toronto Tony George, CCSA's Scientific Advisory Council, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto |
1:15— 2:45 p.m. |
| Tues., Nov. 14 | Keynote Panel: Coming to Grips with the Opioid Crisis
Moderator: Jane Buxton, BC Centre for Disease Control
Panelists: Dr. Norman Buckley, McMaster University Dr. Nicholas Etches, Alberta Health Services Dr. David Juurlink, Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, University of Toronto Donna May, mumsDU |
9:00— 10:00 a.m. |
| Tues., Nov. 14 | Public Release of the National Alcohol Strategy Monitoring Project: A Status Report with Dr. Amy Porath, CCSA | 10:30— 10:35 a.m. |
| Wed., Nov. 15 | Addressing the Opioid Crisis: Lessons Learned from the United States — Presented with support from the United States Embassy
Moderator: Peter Selby, First Do No Harm Co-chair, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Panelists: Dr. Jane Maxwell, University of Texas at Austin Dr. Robin Pollini, Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, West Virginia University School of Medicine Kelly J. Clark, American Society of Addiction Medicine |
8:30— 10:00 a.m. |
| Wed., Nov. 15 | Keynote Panel: Happy Hour: Promoting a Culture of Moderation
Moderator: Ann Dowsett Johnston, Author
Panelists: Tim Stockwell, Centre for Addictions Research of BC Hubert Sacy, Éduc'alcool Beth Martin, Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation |
10:30 a.m.— 11:45 a.m. |
| Wed., Nov. 15 | Closing Remarks
Includes public release of the Joint Statement of Action: A Year in Review report Rita Notarandrea, CEO, CCSA Honourable Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health |
11:45 a.m.— 12:15 p.m. |
| CCSA was created by Parliament to provide national leadership to address substance use in Canada. A trusted counsel, we provide national guidance to decision makers by harnessing the power of research, curating knowledge and bringing together diverse perspectives. |
| CCSA activities and products are made possible through a financial contribution from Health Canada. The views of CCSA do not necessarily represent the views of the Government of Canada. |
SOURCE Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction
How to Pick a Running Shoe
Hi there! Coach Alicia here. You may or may not know that in addition to being a Kinesiologist, Prep Coach, Certified Personal trainer and a Fascial Stretch Therapist that I am also an elite Track and Field Coach. I have owned and operated my own Track and Field club, coached Team Canada at the World Maccabi Games and I am the current head coach of Ryerson University. I have accumulated many sprint and hurdle certifications and you could say I know a thing or two about how to choose the right running shoe.
Choosing the right running shoe is very important not just for a runner, but for many other types of athletes including: recreational sports, performance-based fitness and particularly for a fitness competitor. Why? Because when you increase your cardio, you are racking up the mileage on your shoes, wearing them down with every training session. Not only do you now have to replace your shoes more often (on average it should be replaced every 5-6 months), but if you are doing two-a-days with double cardio, this might need to be more often!
Now when it comes time to buy a new shoe we often go for the best-looking shoe (I have even been guilty of this), our favorite brand, our favorite color or even worse a shoe that may simply may be on sale. Firstly, like any other product you pay for quality. I advise you not to cheap out when it comes to your cardio kicks. Buying a cheap shoe for cardio is like fueling your body with over-processed fast food instead of premium, organic whole food. It simply doesn’t run as efficiently as it should.
Did you know that shoes come with motion control? What is motion control? Firstly, let me tell you about what overpronation is. It is a common trait that affects most runners, leaving them at risk of knee pain and injury. Overpronation can lead to foot fatigue or accidents when left untreated. This biomechanical issue is usually experienced by flat-footed runners. Having motion control shoes will likely help you improve your running economy and performance while facilitating a stable and cushioned ride. Motion control shoes have stiffer heels than support-focused shoes for better pronation control or correction. Motion control shoes have premium cushioning technologies that provide a firmer midsole for better support, but are less flexibility. They also have Teutonic support features which help ease the stress in the quadriceps while running. This is very important for people who are quad dominant.
Overpronator’s need stability or motion control shoes. So, go ahead and look at the bottom wear of your shoe to see which one you may be. If you have a regular wear (heel to toe off) you are a neutral runner. If you have the wear of an overpronator (worn more on the outside of the sole) you most likely will need a shoe with motion control.
How can you tell if a shoe has motion control? You will usually see a darker part on the inside sole of the shoe. This is usually grey in color. In some shoes the grey can be approximately an inch, in others a few inches, and some can be half of the shoe. This means the motion control is mild, medium or maximum. If you slightly pronate you need mild, if you pronate moderately you need medium and if you overpornate severely you need maximum motion control.
What brands come with motion control? I’m sorry to break the bad news but most of the popular shoes like Adidas, Nike, Puma and Converse are all neutral shoes. If you are a pronator you may be doing yourself more harm than good by putting your feet into a neutral shoe. Brooks, New Balance, Asics, Mizuno and Sketchers all have motion control shoes.
If you don’t feel confident enough to go to a store or buy motion control shoes online my best advice is to either go to a Running Room or a New Balance store. Why? Because all employees at these two stores should be trained to assess your running gait and give you options of motion control shoes that will work for you. They will get you to try the shoes on in the store so that you can get a feel for the different shoes and feel the difference in your gait with them on before purchasing them.
Make sure to choose the right size and fit of a shoe once you’ve decided on a shoe. To enhance running performance and avoid injuries pay attention to correct sizing and fit. Make sure to have a roomy toe box and consider that type of socks you intend to wear when you purchase a new pair of motion control running shoe. If you are wearing a thicker or thinner sock than usual it will change the fit of the shoe once you get into your regular socks.
Trust me when I say that choosing the right shoe will change your cardio by making you a more efficient runner, decrease your aches and pains from your ankles to your knees and even in your back. It will also boost your training so that you can get the maximum results for your effort! Thank me later and happy running!
New Entity Offers Canadian Eye Care Professionals Total Practice Solution for Preservative-Free Glaucoma, Dry Eye and Lid Hygiene Management
OAKVILLE, ON, Nov. 10, 2017 /CNW/ - Labtician Ophthalmics Inc. of Oakville, Canada, and Laboratoires Théa of Clermont-Ferrand, France, today announced the launch of Labtician Théa, Canada's new leader in the preservative-free management of glaucoma, dry eye disease and lid hygiene.

Though Labtician Théa is new to Canada, a rich history of innovation runs deep within its two founding companies. Labtician Ophthalmics has 60 years of experience in bringing innovation to practice for eye care professionals in Canada. Laboratoires Théa, with 150 years of history in eye care, is now Europe's largest family-owned ophthalmology company, having built a solid reputation as the pioneer and leader in the development of preservative-free eye care treatments.
The joint venture will leverage the strengths of both organizations to focus exclusively on helping Canadian optometrists and ophthalmologists build their practices and preserve eye health for their patients. In doing so, Labtician Théa aims to become an essential partner to Canadian optometrists and ophthalmologists, delivering solutions-focused support, backed by dedicated and experienced representatives, comprehensive education and practice management programs and highly responsive practice management specialists.
"This agreement represents a major win for Canadian eye care professionals and their patients," says Mark Smithyes, President of Labtician Théa.
He continued, "Combining Théa's rich pipeline of preservative-free treatments, which are already the standard of care in Europe, with Labtician's proven sales, distribution and service expertise, Canadian optometrists and ophthalmologists will now have the very best options available to improve their patients' eye health."
The formation of Labtician Théa could not be timelier for dry eye sufferers. The recently released DEWS II study, a systematic review of clinical studies, redefines dry eye as a disease that occurs when a person loses the protective film covering the eyes, which damages the eye's surface. While citing various risk factors for dry eye, including increasing age, gender, computer screen use, poor eyelid hygiene and use of glaucoma medications, the study concluded that many people suffering with dry eye turn to artificial tears to manage the condition, unaware that the preservatives contained in these products, such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK), can worsen the problem. The study recommends avoiding such preservatives to reduce the risk of developing dry eye disease. Labtician Théa's treatments, such as Thealoz® and Hyabak®, are preservative free and are uniquely formulated to help the eye to heal from dry eye disease.
"The DEWS II guidelines and recommendations clearly reinforce the need for a trusted provider of proven preservative-free eye care products in Canada," said Jean-Frédéric Chibret. "We are delighted to bring our innovations to Canadian patients though this powerful partnership of two like-minded organizations."
With the support of Théa's extensive portfolio of preservative-free products in Europe, Labtician Théa is assembling an aggressive launch schedule that includes plans to release several new treatments in 2018 and in the years following.
"We will focus on bringing innovation to practice, which is all about providing the best care for patients," says Polydor Strouthos, President of Labtician Ophthalmics Inc. "That's why Labtician Théa's products will continue to be available exclusively through eye care professionals. We know that this leads to patients returning to the place where they can get the care they deserve."
For more information on Labtician Théa, visit: www.labtician-thea.com
About Labtician Ophthalmics Inc.
Labtician is a manufacturer of high quality retinal implants and ophthalmic and oculoplastic product lines, such as silicone oil and gold lid weights. Labtician has evolved from being a manufacturer of quality ophthalmic products for the global market to also being a specialized commercialization partner for the Canadian ophthalmic market. In their capacity as a commercialization partner, they offer a "complete Canadian solution" and are involved in the entire commercialization process.
About Laboratoires Théa
Laboratoires Théa is the leading independent pharmaceutical company in Europe dedicated to ophthalmology. Théa was the pioneer and remains the world leader in preservative-free eye care products, committed to researching, developing and bringing to market an innovative and value driven product line for eye care professionals and their patients.
SOURCE Labtician Ophthalmics Inc.
