Exercise / Fitness

2016 is a new year for resolutions and for many that #1 resolution is to get in shape. Pairing with that resolution usually is a membership to one’s local fitness center. According to statista.com, 2014 had over 54.1 million memberships at fitness centers/ health clubs up from 32.8 million back in 2000 (1). This means that over 17% of the US population is currently enrolled in a fitness center. Now enrolling is the easy part, the hard part is actually attending and making the most of it.

Summer time is here to stay with record breaking temperatures and what better way to cool off than jumping in a pool. Being in the water has more benefits than just cooling down and having fun. People from all around the world use water as a form of exercise and therapy. People with muscle and joint pain often find exercising unpleasant and turn to water therapy as a relief. The largest benefit of doing water therapy and exercises is that when you’re submerged in deep water, you unload 90% of your body weight through water buoyancy¹. By decreasing the amount of joint stress it is easier and less painful to perform exercises. People with a weight problem often find working out in water pleasant as the water environment soothes and supports their muscles and joints while staying cool.

I was recently asked to write an article for our friends at the Long Term Living Magazine on the topic of patient care and exercise for mobility challenged patients. It's an interesting topic and something that deserves focus. Exercise remains a critical component of our lives, no matter what our age or capability. Most all of us are capable of doing some sort of exercise and just might need to think creatively to find the right solution for more challenging cases. Below is the article that was published in the Long Term Living Magazine 5/29/2014. Please enjoy!

Nursing home residents are physically frail, and possibly approaching the end of their lives. So what’s the point of exercise, especially for someone in a wheelchair?  Too often, I believe, professionals and staff in long-term care environments accept this defeatist attitude.

Have you heard of the term “Resolutioner”? In the fitness industry it’s a widely used term for people who sign up for a gym membership right after the New Year. The month of January usually sees about a 30% increase in new gym memberships. People are joining for the right intentions, but sadly, most of those new memberships go inactive after 30 days ¹.  Below are some interesting stats according to a U.S. Government survey.

The creation and advancements of smart phones have impacted many industries and now have taken the portable device to endless possibilities. Mobile devices have revolutionized how the caretaker, physician, and end user practice medicine¹. Companies have developed apps to work flawlessly with their products to make your experience more rewarding and informational. Imagine sitting in line at the grocery store and wanting to know your blood pressure.  Simply pull out your phone, open a specific medical app, and the information at your fingertips is endless. You can calculate a couple quick numbers, and send those results in a flash straight to your doctor to review instantly.

As the fitness industry continues to grow it is becoming ever more important to take care of your body with proper recovery. Not only sleep and nutrition is necessary but giving the appropriate attention to your muscles they deserve. There are a lot of products out there that are inexpensive and will give your muscles the benefit of deep tissue work. This process is called SMR or Self-Myofacial Release.

Safe, inexpensive, portable. Those are just a few reasons why colored resistance bands are popular for exercise, fitness goals, and rehabilitation.  You may have tried resistance bands yourself or have had them recommended to you by a physical therapist or personal trainer.

Proper nutrition isn't always easy to maintain, even if you are eatin' your greens.  But it is more important than you might imagine when it comes to feeling energized and focused.