J Blog

The benefits of maintaining proper posture go well beyond just looking good. Not only do joints such as shoulders, hips and knees move better with proper posture and alignment, but internal organs also work more efficiently when your posture is in line.

In fact, the effect of improper posture on the internal organs can create digestive and circulatory issues that can lead to discomfort, lack of energy and even illness. Proper posture can also help reduce headaches caused by improper neck alignment and reduce lower back pain.

The time has come to end the summer vacations and begin to plan for the new year. In Jewish tradition, this new year is marked by Rosh Hashanah and begins the celebration of the high holidays.

As you gaze out at the beautiful pool, water, trees, and children enjoying each other, it is important to remember the creation of the world. A few common themes of importance at the time of the new year are reflection, positive changes and newness. 

Functional Training is a term that has saturated the fitness industry over the last decade. It has been used to market and promote multiple formats of exercise and has been included in a wide variety of fitness articles in magazines, social and internet media. But do we understand what the term Functional Training actually is? 

Contributions by Caitlin Cecil, Health and Fitness Coordinator

As is the case with so many things in our lives today, people are turning to online assistance when it comes to weight loss and fitness. Who among us hasn't typed in key search words such as "building muscle," "toning arms, butts and legs," "best ab workout" or "quick weight loss.” In fact, "how to lose weight" is in the top 10 of most asked questions online and is searched online about 1,300 times a day.

Along with an overwhelming amount of nutritional information, that may or may not be accurate, there are countless programs and workouts that can be found online. As you filter through search results, it's difficult to know what is legitimate and what can actually work for you. Below are some guidelines  you can use as you search for the right fitness program. 

In the 1920s, Joseph Pilates introduced his method of exercise to help injured athletes and dancers return to fitness and health. In today’s fitness world, many places offer Pilates, but may not appear to offer the foundation that J. Pilates had in mind. 

It is overwhelming with the number of studios, boutiques and formats to choose from. Pilates is for people of all ages, backgrounds, and is as much a mental workout as it is a physical one. Concentration is important, as is form while slowly repeating the movements.   

Seasons and celebrations always seem to have a relationship with food. With summer being the most popular season for BBQs, picnics, weddings, graduations and, of course, travel vacations, there are plenty of opportunities to make poor food choices and overeat.

Here are some tips to enjoy your summer while maintaining a healthy weight.

Whose Side Will You Take to Get in Shape?
In the spirit of summer competition, our next fitness challenge, Trainer vs. Trainer, starts next week. Angela and Ulises face off in a challenge to get you in beach body shape in no time. Once you choose your team, either Team Angela or Team Ulises, you can choose to train with your group either once or twice a week for the duration of the challenge.

The term Circuit Training is used often in the fitness industry. Fitness magazines and websites are filled with articles that include a variety of circuit style workouts.

Circuit Training can play a role in your fitness routine regardless of whether your goals are gaining strength, adding lean muscle or losing weight. There are many additional benefits in utilizing this type of workout. Let's start by defining what Circuit Training is.

One of the best things about fitness classes is that you have an entire room of people in the same boat as you. It could be your first class ever, or the third this week, all of you are in it together.

When someone asks me where to begin when joining a gym, I always recommend checking out the class schedule. From dance, to cycle, there is something fun to do, the instructors know what they are talking about, and all eyes are not on you.

As we approach what is often referred to as "swimsuit season," a desire to look our best becomes a priority. This desire can motivate us to try weight loss options that we wouldn't normally consider or that may prove to be a risk on our health. Safe and healthy weight loss requires patience and self control along with some basic guidelines.