Getting Fit with Self - Defense In Mind

Wikipedia

The sad fact is that a lot of us feel very vulnerable when we’re outside. It doesn’t matter what sex you are, or whose company you tend to keep. Some of us simply don’t feel all that confident when we’re out in public. This can be especially damaging when we’re trying to have a good night out, or when we’re travelling somewhere alone.

One of the best ways to tackle this sort of fear is confidence. I’m not talking about the confidence that nothing bad will happen. (Although if there is a magic wand that grants such freedom from worry then please let me know if you find it!) It’s more about having confidence that, should someone make an unwanted move on you, you can handle the situation effectively. Maybe this is through conversation. Maybe it’s through being able to run away. Maybe it’s even in taking more physical action against an attacker.

Whatever the case, keeping physically fit can actually help a lot with this type of confidence. But what if we take fitness a step further and actually incorporate self-defense? It’s absolutely something that everyone should consider, especially those with these sorts of worries.

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Considering general fitness

As I said before, keeping physically fit can help a lot in this area. That’s because, whatever action you choose to take, you’ll be better at it if you’re physically fit. Let’s take a general example. A lot of people are scared of these situations because they don’t run very fast. Or, if they do run fast, they don’t have a lot of stamina.

Well, by keeping up with a consistent and strong fitness routine, you can improve on both those areas. Keeping your physical strength up also helps you keep mentally sharp. Running will increase your lung capacity, allowing you to run for longer. Focussing on muscle strength will help with other defense techniques. Speaking of which…

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Direct defense techniques

When people talk about self-defense, they’re usually thinking about something very specific. They think of particular techniques that will allow them to fend off attackers if an encounter becomes violent.

If you want to best combine physical fitness with self-defense technique education? You may want to look into mixed martial arts, or MMA. Of course, as anyone who has seen The Karate Kid knows, there’s a lot more to this activity than simply learning how to fight. MMA can provide you with a thorough workout good for both mind and body.

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Evasive maneuvers

Sometimes, the best option really is to just run. But we don’t just want to focus on speed. We probably need to focus on evasive maneuvers through an urban environment.

A lot of people believe that parkour is only about jumping around on public property in an effort to impress your friends. But think about it. Parkour is the method by which you learn to move through complex environments at high speed. It’s about overcoming physical obstacles with ease. Let’s say you’re running away from an attacker. Are you sure that knowing the best way to climb and jump a wall wouldn’t be extremely useful? It may sound unconventional, but it could absolutely boost your confidence.

Are you like me and crave sugary treats? I grew up with my grand parents. My great grand parents lived next door. I definitely was spoiled. You can curb those cravings.

Knowing why and when your cravings occur can help you prepare to deal with them. Whether you are changing your environment to experience them less often or are developing ways to respond differently, it is possible to overcome most junk food desires. Here are a few ways to set yourself up for success:

1. Get enough sleep Getting enough sleep is very important. When you are tired or bored you tend to reach for a snack to keep you entertained or to satisfy you. If you are well rested you are more likely to make a better decision.

2. Plan Your Meals and Prep them. Prepping your meals in advance can keep you from reaching for bad foods. Having meals every 2-3 hours also ensures you never go too long without eating and never leaves you in a pinch grabbing something quickly from a store.

3. Don't Keep Junk In The House. First identify the foods you are reaching for when you are snacking. Then make sure to rid your house of them. You don't need to keep them around if you can't control yourself. You are more likely to reach for a healthier alternative if they aren't in your house.

4. Drink Water. Often times we confuse hunger with dehydration. Next time you feel snacky, grab some water and chug it down. This may fill you up and you may have just been thirsty and not hungry for a snack.

5. Stay Accountable. Put a dollar into a jar every time you crave something but don't give into the craving. At the end of the week, month etc cash it in and do something nice for yourself like a movie or some shopping!

You got this! Be strong young grasshopper! Don't give in to the cravings.

PMS DIET: 8 DO’S AND DONT’S

www.drcalapai.net

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is such a regular occurrence for many women that they consider it a normal part of getting their period. The Mayo Clinic estimates about 75 percent of women get at least some form of PMS. Although the causes of PMS aren't well understood, “fluctuating levels of hormones and brain chemicals are thought to play a role. What a woman eats and drinks can also have an effect, “ says  Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O.  a Manhattan Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. He shares with us 10 do’s and don’ts for getting through PMS as pain free as possible. 

1)Do get more calcium

Some studies have shown that calcium levels are lower in women with PMS, and that those with the highest intake of calcium reported the mildest PMS symptoms. Dr. Calapai suggests sourcing your calcium from foods such as low-fat milk and dairy, calcium-fortified breakfast cereals and orange juice, and leafy greens.

2) Don't consume excessive salt

Salt increases water retention, so if you suffer from premenstrual bloating, do limit the amount of sodium you consume in the run up to your period. Eliminate the salt shaker, and cut back on the canned foods, processed foods and condiments, all of which are overflowing with sodium.

3) Do drink more water

“Although this sounds counter-intuitive,” says Dr. Calapai,  “Water can actually alleviate PMS-related fluid retention. Drink plenty of H2O -- aim for 8 to 10 glasses a day; more when you exercise -- to flush toxins out of your system and reduce premenstrual bloating.”

4) Do Eat Dark Chocolate

Craving the sugary confections like chocolate and cupcakes is totally normal. Try and reach for dark chocolate when you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.  A bonus is, it will boost your mood.

5) Don’t Consume Coffee

While you may need that daily cup   (or two) to be functional, studies show that caffeine increases levels of anxiety. Dr. Calapai explains that, “Your blood vessels contract when caffeine is present in your body, which worsens menstrual cramps. Also, for those with loose stool while on their periods, adding caffeine to your diet will make it difficult for your body to retain water and worsen diarrhea.”

6) Do Eat Greens

Losing a lot of blood can cause iron deficiency, which can cause lightheadedness or nausea. To counteract this problem, Dr. Calapai recommends stocking up on darker greens, like spinach, kale and broccoli to get your iron levels back up, but avoid eating them raw. For spinach, sautée with minced garlic and olive oil for a warm, flavorful bundle of nutrients!

7) Don’t Drink Alcohol

It will only worsen feelings of depression and moodiness. One study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology also found that regular alcohol consumption increased length of and severity of cramps in women who experience cramps during PMS.

8) Do Eat Bananas

Sleep disturbances right before your period are the norm for many women. Plus, experts at John Hopkins University in Baltimore found that too little sleep made women more susceptible to pain (meaning those cramps will feel even worse). So make sure to get your z's by eating bananas, which contain melatonin—a sleep-aid hormone that's secreted at night and helps regulate our body's natural rhythms.

Dr. Christopher Calapai D.O.

Anti-Aging Physician and "The Stem Cell Guru"

www.drcal.net

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed as the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S.

His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's.

Dr. Calapai started his practice in New York City in 1986 and for over 25 years he has hosted nationally syndicated radio shows, including his two weekly call-in shows on WABC 770-AM, where he offers health and medical advice. He has a show on Saturday morning 8-9am and Sunday evening from 6-7pm. He has consulted with numerous high-profile individuals including Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Fox series Gotham's, Donal Logue and worked as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers hockey team as well as various modeling agencies.

Dr. Calapai received his medical degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and he consults in Manhattan with practices on Long Island, in East Meadow and Plainview. He has appeared on News12 and in the pages of 25A Magazine and Social Life Magazine.

Foolproof Ways To Boost Your Motivation To Get Physically Fit

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It could be the case that you have access to a safe place to run or cycle or can even afford a gym membership. You also have the time to work out, even if it is on the evenings or on weekends. You even have a drawer of the right clothes and sneakers. But what you lack is motivation.

So, how can you boost your motivation levels, in order to get physically fit? Let’s take a look at a handful of foolproof ways….

Great Music

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Hearing is one of our most valuable senses, and it allows us to hear and enjoy a whole universe of wonderful music. Well, science has proven time and time again that music with certain qualities can be great at helping with motivation. After all, there has to be a reason why so many gyms pump out loud dance music in their fitness halls! And spin classes have the music on so loud that the leader needs a microphone or loudhailer to be heard! Usain Bolt was just one pro-athlete seen at the Rio Olympics warming up with his headphones in! Follow in his footsteps by using music to motivate you! Make a playlist the length of your workout, and aim to get right through to the end of the last track. If you lift weights, for example, music also acts a great distraction to help you push through the pain. feelingfit.info lists some great workout songs to add to your playlist!

Consider Supplements

If you lack motivation for fitness within yourself, it could well be linked to your testosterone levels. Many parallels have been drawn between motivation and testosterone by sports scientists and researchers. If you think that boosting your levels of testosterone will help you- as it likely will- be sure you do ample research first. If you want to supplement your levels, it is so crucial that you are well-informed. Being so means that you can give yourself this boost safely. Take a look at information sites HealthandFitnessVitality.com like and take in the insights there.

Water Intake

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It’s as simple as this; if you are dehydrated, you simply can’t feel as energized and motivated as you could if you were properly hydrated. If, an hour before the end of work you simply can’t be bothered to go to the gym afterward? Down a couple of pints of water! You’re sure to feel much better afterward. That’s because water is directly linked to things like how awake and alert we feel. familydoctor.org explains more about the importance of good hydration.

Breath!!

This might sound like the most obvious point in the world. But actually, it is incredibly common for people to hold their breath when exercising, or pushing themselves further. However, if you are not breathing properly, you won’t maintain the energy you need to keep going. As a result, you simply won’t be motivated to do as many reps, or miles, or strokes. Remembering to breathe- and to breath correctly- isn’t something you can learn in a second. It takes time to build up the skill, and then to do it naturally, resisting the urge to hold your breath. Try saying it to yourself in your head for your exercise routines for the next few weeks. After a while, you’ll stop holding your breath and breath properly all the way through your routine. greatist.com is a guide to breathing correctly for all types of exercise.

Alberta kids, Ariya Jutanugarn big winners at Canadian Pacific Women's Open

SOURCE Canadian Pacific

I had the chance to sit down with nutritionist Jessica Tong. The registered dietitian that works with Zespri Kiwifruit. At the time I was very inspired by the Olympics so a lot of my questions have to do with training nutrition. I hope you all can take away a bit of new knowledge about how great Kiwifruit is from the questions that I asked her.

1. If I am planning a tough training day when is the best time to have my fruit like a kiwi?

The best time to have kiwifruit is prior to a tough workout. Packed with potassium, vitamin C, vitamin E, antioxidants, and natural sugars, Zespri SunGolds are a nutrient-dense snack of choice to fuel your body, optimize immune function, and ensure proper muscle function during your workout.

2. What major nutrients are in a kiwi that will contribute to my health?

Zespri SunGold kiwifruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. They contain 2 times more vitamin C than oranges, which is important for immune function and the growth and repair of bones and tissues. Zespri SunGolds are also a good source of vitamin E, a natural antioxidant. Potassium is crucial for heart function and plays a key role in muscle contraction. One serving of Zespri SunGolds provides as much potassium as a medium banana. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium are all essential micronutrients that are especially important when you are training.

3. What is a good go-to recipe for kiwis?

Zespri SunGold kiwifruits can be blended into shakes for a juicy, tropical taste. Or, they can be cut up into smoothie bowls or yogurt. This Sunrise Smoothie Bowl is an excellent recipe rich in fibre, heart-healthy fats, and protein that can be enjoyed for breakfast, snack, or dessert! http://www.zesprikiwi.com/kiwifruit-recipes/breakfast-recipes/sunrise-smoothie-bowl/

4. Are kiwis high in sugar? What is the glycemic rating?

Kiwifruits are relatively low in sugar, especially Zespri SunGold Kiwifruits. They are low on the glycemic index (Zespri Green: 39, Zespri SunGold 38) and are appropriate for people with diabetes or impaired blood sugar control.

5. How many kiwis are one serving size?

One serving of Zespri SunGold is 162 g or 2 kiwifruits.

6. How much more vitamin C does a Kiwi have than an orange?

Based on 100 g, Zespri SunGolds contain 2 times more vitamin C than oranges.

7. What is the PH balance of a kiwi and how can it help my athletic performance?

Acid-base balance, or pH balance, affects the body’s metabolic process. It is important that blood pH stays within the range of 7.35 and 7.45, which is on the basic/alkaline side. When blood pH levels become too acidic, an environment is created for bacteria or viruses to enter and to thrive, leading to illness, aches, and lack of energy. This can worsen muscle soreness, create a feeling of fatigue, and compromise athletic performance.

Depending on its ripeness, the pH value of a kiwifruit varies between 3.1 and 3.96, classifying it as a “high-acid” food. However, while kiwis are naturally acidic, they become alkaline after digestion, promoting alkaline balance. Also, kiwifruits are not acid-forming. When acid-forming food is consumed, such as artificial sweeteners, meat, and alcohol, all of which are common in the North American diet, it produces toxins that impact the pH balance of the body and makes the blood more acidic.

8. We know that fibre is important and especially with muscle. How much fibre does a kiwi have and how does it help my fitness goals?

1 serving (2 kiwifruits) contain 4 g of fibre. Fibre is slow to digest so it keeps you fuller for longer. This is crucial if you are trying to control calories. Fibre also prevents a blood sugar spike as it causes glucose (sugar) to enter your bloodstream in a slow, controlled manner. This helps to stabilize energy levels and prevent a “sugar crash”. Fibre is also important to promote digestive health and regularity.

9. Is there anything else you would like to share? Where can we find more information about you?

Kiwifruit is considered a superfood/superfruit. It is a versatile fruit that is nutritionally superior to apples, oranges, and bananas.

Please feel free to reach Jessica via www.jessicatongrd.com and to learn more about Zespri check out there website HERE.

Texas A&M research shows standing desks lead to improved BMI 

(COLLEGE STATION, Texas) — Texas A&M researchers have shown, for the first time, evidence that standing desks in classrooms can slow the increase in elementary school children’s body mass index (BMI)—a key indicator of obesity—by an average of 5.24 percentile points. The research was published today in the American Journal of Public Health.

“Research around the world has shown that standing desks are positive for the teachers in terms of classroom management and student engagement, as well as positive for the children for their health, cognitive functioning and academic achievement,” said Mark Benden, PhD, CPE, an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at the Texas A&M School of Public Health and an author of the study. “It’s literally a win-win, and now we have hard data that shows it is beneficial for weight control.”

Twenty-four classrooms at three elementary schools (eight in each of the three schools) in College Station, Texas, participated in the study. At each school, four classrooms were outfitted with stand-biased desks (which allow students to sit on a stool or stand at will) and four classrooms in each school acted as a control and utilized standard classroom desks. The researchers followed the same students—193 in all—from the beginning of third grade to the end of fourth grade.

The researchers found that the students who had the stand-biased desks for both years averaged a three percent drop in BMI while those in traditional desks showed the two percent increase typically associated with getting older. However, even those who spent just one year in classrooms with stand-biased desks had lower mean BMIs than those students in traditional seated classrooms for their third and fourth grade years. In addition, there weren’t major differences between boys and girls, or between students of different races, suggesting that this intervention works across demographic groups.

“Classrooms with stand-biased desks are part of what we call an Activity Permissive Learning Environment (APLE), which means that teachers don’t tell children to ‘sit down,’ or ‘sit still’ during class,” Benden said. “Instead, these types of desks encourage the students to move instead of being forced to sit in poorly fitting, hard plastic chairs for six or seven hours of their day.”

Previous studies from Benden’s lab have shown that children who stand burn 15 percent more calories, on average, than those who sit in class, but this is the first study showing, over two years, that BMI decreases over time (versus controls) when using a stand-biased desk.

“It is challenging to just measure weight loss with children,” Benden said, “because children are supposed to be gaining weight as they get older and taller.”

At the beginning of this study, which was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), roughly 79 percent of the students were of normal weight category, 12 percent were overweight and nine percent were obese, according to height and weight measurements made by the researchers. These are better numbers than nationally, where 14.9 percent of children were overweight and 16.9 percent were obese in 2012. The fact that the students who started at a healthy weight benefited from stand-biased desks as much as they did might indicate that these desks help students who aren’t overweight maintain their BMI, while at the same time help those who start out overweight or obese get to a healthier weight.

These desks, designed by Benden and his team, are called stand-biased, not “standing” because they do include a tall stool the students can perch on if they so choose. They also include a footrest, a vital feature because it allows children to get their lower backs out of tension and reduce leg fatigue to stand more comfortably over time. These United States-patented desk designs are now licensed to Stand2Learn, which has commercialized the products through translational research focused on moving university studies to publicly available solutions.

“Sit less, move more,” Benden said. “That’s our message.”

5 Tips to Help Keep Skin Safe in the Sun

Berlin, Germany, 23/8/16 - Over recent decades beauty standards have altered to place a larger importance on bronzed, sun-kissed skin. Changing leisure habits have made regular use of sunbeds acceptable, and a culturally agreed importance of boasting a year-round tan as a sign of health - and expendable wealth - mean that tanning is more pervasive than ever before.

Sporting a gorgeous glowing skin tone may make some among us feel better about our looks, but the potential health effects have been widely reported on. Specifically in Canada, a recent study from dermatological platform Derma.plus showed that the country has the 19th highest diagnoses annually of skin cancer worldwide. And at this time of year, it’s not just those who use artificial tanning methods who need to be careful to keep their skin protected.

Below are five simple ways to ensure you don’t over-expose your skin this summer, boosting your chances of keeping skin healthy.

1. Wear practical clothing...
A simple technique to avoid strong solar radiation is to wear sensible, skin-covering clothing, suitable for the environment around you. Loose fitting linens are very popular in summer, providing adequate ventilation as well as cover from the sun’s rays. Likewise, don’t underestimate the power a simple hat can have in protecting your face from the sun’s heat. At the beach or swimming pool don’t assume these garments need to come off before you get into the water; UV rays are more intense when refracted through liquid, so stay covered for as long as required.

2. ...And adequate sun protection!
   The most popular kind of sun protection is still the classic sunscreen. But make sure that you’re using the correct SPF for your skin type, as well as the right amount to actually protect the skin. To reach the SPF level on the bottle, adults should use at least 30-40ml sunscreen for the whole body. If you have sensitive skin, if its midsummer, of if you’re in a hotter country than your skin is ordinarily used to, be sure to raise your SPF factor accordingly, and always reapply several times throughout the day.
3. Allow skin to acclimatise
   If your skin is not used to hot weather or intense sunlight be careful about subjecting it to these factors too quickly. Allow it time to become accustomed to more intense solar levels to avoid any nasty sensations or shocks. Keep sunbathing to shorter periods of time in the first instances, and avoid being in the sun too long during it’s peak, between 10am-4pm in the northern hemisphere.
4. Avoid sun beds
   Straight-up great advice; sun beds should be avoided! It has been proven time and again that simulated solar radiation can drastically increase the risk of developing harmful diseases such as skin cancer. Such intense solar levels coupled with a lack of protection not only increase the risk of cancer, but also age the skin faster than usual. Some among us use sunbeds ahead of holidays in an attempt to acclimatise skin by creating a base layer of tan. However due to the intensity at which sunbeds work, this is not a sensible approach. A far better option is to follow the advice above and slowly acclimatise your skin whilst on location, timing exposure and ensuring skin is never exposed to levels which are too intense.
5. Take special precautions with children
   As far as the usage of sunscreen on children’s skin goes, debates rage on regarding the age at which they can safely start to have it applied. Some experts state that babies under 6 months of age should never have it applied, whilst others argue children should never use it under the age of two. Whichever argument you’re more inclined to believe, most experts and parents agree that sunscreen should never be the first and only line of defence for children. Opt instead for physical barriers such as clothing, hats or umbrellas.

I recently spoke at the 2016 CanfitPro World Fitness Expo. My talk was Saturday August 13th in the main expo hall. I spoke about Hydration! Overall I think my talk was well received and I got a lot of good questions and feedback. This was my second time speaking at the expo and I hope that I can speak again next year! I love speaking engagements.

A little bit more not he event and Canfitpro:

Canfitpro brought together global experts on fitness, nutrition and healthy living in downtown Toronto earlier this month as part of the 2016 canfitpro world fitness expo. The annual event attracted fitness professionals, business owners and fitness enthusiasts, making it the largest fitness education event in the world.

Highlights included:

• Industry awards for Canadian, Specialty, International and New presenter

• Lifetime Achievment award to Beto Perez, creator of Zumba

• Workouts lead by Jillian Michaels (BODYSHRED creator), Tony Horton (P90X creator), Shaun T (INSANITY creator),

• Over 400 professional sessions on nutrition, personal training, group fitness, mind-body, active aging and more

• An expo hall with 230+ companies specializing in fitness and wellness products and services

• Closing keynote address by co-founder of WE Day, Craig Kielburger

"This was our best event to date. The calibre of education provided by our global experts and the amazing products and services available in the expo hall made this a world-class event and we can't wait to return next year with an even bigger event!" Rod Macdonald, canfitpro Vice-President 

canfitpro also achieved their goal of raising $100,000 to build a playground for the Pacific Autism Family Centre, due in large part to the generous donations from world fitness expo delegates, business owners, presenters, volunteers and consumers, matched by canfitpro.

About canfitpro:
canfitpro is the largest provider of education in the Canadian fitness industry. Founded in 1993, canfitpro delivers accessible, quality education, certifications, conferences, trade shows, and membership services. canfitpro's over 100,000 members include some of the world's finest fitness professionals, health club operators, industry suppliers, and fitness consumers.
www.canfitpro.com

Related links:

http://www.canfitpro.com/

http://www.canfitpro.com/charity

http://pacificautismfamily.com/2016/06/canfitpro-100000-to-pafcf/

Hey guys! Alicia here! I know some of you have really busy schedules and can't make it into the gym to train all the time. I am the same way. Sometimes after clients, events, and meetings I have article deadlines to meet and have to rush home leaving no time for me to get my own training done. So I make use of whatever time I may have whether it be 5 or 30 minutes with quick at home work outs. The following are the train it right must have gym equipment for at home.

Exercise Bands

These are great for at home. You literally have endless options for exercises that you can do with them. You can tie them down to things, you can hold them, you can even do abdominal exercises with them. The full body options are endless.

Exercise Ball

No a days these are all manufactured to be anti-burst so you don't have to be afraid of getting one. Make sure to check the measurements because they come in different sizes and you want one that fits your height. These are great for exercises that activate your core (abdominals and back). They are also great for balance and core stabilization.

Yoga Mat

Weather you have carpet or not I suggest to invest in one of these. They are relatively inexpensive. If you want to do exercises on the ground they are great for cushioning or to prevent carpet burn depending on the exercises. You can do yoga, pilates, body weight exercises and even use weights on these. If you are using weights it also prevents your floor from getting scraped up by the weights (if they aren't rubberized).

Medicine Balls

I like to keep a variety of different weighted medicine balls. I use them from everything to squat press, slams, abs and I even do uneven push ups on them. They are a fun way to change up your routine and make a simple no weight exercises weighted. Its also fun to challenge myself weekly by increasing the weight.

Exercises Step (sometimes referred to as an aerobics step)

These are great to have at home with risers. That way you can change the height. You can do single leg glut bridges, elevated heel squats, step ups, push ups, abs and even get your cardio done with one of these bad boys.

Jump Rope

Little space is needed to utilize this gem. The jump rope is a fun way to get your cardio/plyometric work in and will have you sweating in a matter of minutes.

There are many more at home equipment you can purchase but I would say that these should be your go to pieces. You can use them independently or you can put them all together and create a fun at home circuit that can be 5 minutes to 60 minutes long. Have fun with the order and have fun changing up the exercises.

TRAIN IT RIGHT!