Here's A Little Refresher To Keep You On Track

Without a doubt, physical pain questions are by far the one's I get most often.  It doesn't matter if you sit at a desk all day long, run every morning, or workout at the gym 3x/week.  If you're not doing some sort of well thought out stretching program in addition to self-massage, it's just a matter of when you'll have pain, not if.

So for all the parts that tend to hurt, here's a little cheat sheet to get you out of pain fast and keep you that way.

Cheat Sheet

Of course, I'm sure you've already guessed that the second most popular questions I receive are those concerning nutrition.  With all of the misinformation out there in the media, it can truly be a chore to figure out what works and what doesn't.  It's really not that difficult believe it or not.

It boils down to a very basic principle when it comes to nutrition -- portion control.  Meaning having a template of what each and every meal should look like on your plate.  That's the easiest way by far to keep you on track with your nutrition.  Realistically I understand most people are not going to measure out their food.  It's much more accurate, but it's not realistic for the majority of the population.  Here's a simple trick/template to help you stay on track with your nutrition so you can see results by the time warm weather arrives.

Cheat Sheet 2

So there you have it. 

Whether it's some sort of pain you're in that you're ready to be rid of, or if you need a little help getting started with an easy to use nutrition guide, the above two references should get you on track quickly and effectively. 

There's no need to be in pain, life is too short. 

And there's no reason to be confused about what works when it comes to nutrition.  Don't be mislead by slick media.

Get On Track and Stay On Track!

Let's Add Another One To The List

I know you've heard it over and over again, but I'm unfortunately going to say it again.  I hope I don't offend you in the process:

Transforming your body (think getting rid of body fat) is 80% nutrition

Having a fit body (think being able to do the things you truly like and not risk getting hurt) is 70-80% core fitness

Sometimes people jump to conclusions, so let me be really specific so I don't get misquoted.

Yes, you can do less than 80% on your nutrition and still get results.  The problem is I have only met a hand full of people that are willing to train that hard, or the person has incredible genetics and doesn't have to work that hard.  And by the way, there are very few people in the latter group.

Most of us do have to monitor what we eat and how much.  It's part of the process.  If you want your body to change you have to do something different than you've been doing, to get results.  Keep doing the same thing and expecting different results is . . . .

Well, you know what that's called.

So it stands to reason that if you want to avoid back pain, you're going to have to do something different than those monotonous crunches.  Sure you'll feel a burn in your midsection, but that doesn't mean you're really training your core effectively.  I fell asleep on my arm the other day and when I woke up it tingled.  But I'm pretty sure that didn't mean I had trained my arm effectively.

If you haven't been training core and need some movements to help get you started, check out You Tube Channel. Or stay tuned because next month, each Friday, I'll be sharing with you some core movements using the Swiss Ball.  It's a great next step after doing the one's listed on my channel.

Now, if you've been training core you already know the benefits and importance of doing those movements regularly.  But once in a while it's nice to throw in a little variety to keep things interesting and motivating.

Here's another one to add to the list. 

Core Fitness

Last month I shared with you some exercises to help you fight SB Syndrome.  And if you've been practicing/using them regularly you know how well they work.

This month I want to share some exercises for the core.  I know many people, some of them even trainers, believe that the elusive 6-pack is all about how many crunches you do each week.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  While doing abdominal exercises will indeed tone the midsection, nutrition is the larger key in creating that all important 6-pack that so many people desire.  However, now here's the kicker, just because you have a 6-pack, doesn't mean that you have a strong core or that your abs work effectively.

The bottom line is that you have to do both: core/ab exercises as well as a proper nutrition program in order to get that "ripped" midsection look.  And you know me, it's not just about the vanity aspect of having a nice set of abs.  There is an all important functional aspect as well.  How well your core functions (as well as your glutes if you'll remember last months posts) often determines whether or not you'll have back pain. Want to get rid of back pain or just make sure you don't ever have to experience it, try the movements I'll share with you each Friday this month and I can almost guarantee you won't have to worry about pain in your lower back.

Here's the first movement I'd like to share to help you get your core in shape and looking good.

Kurt Elder of Energy F/X Fitness discusses and demonstrates one of the best core exercises around. Research says this movement activates more abdominal muscl...

Still Fight SB Syndrome? Week 4

Here we are at week 4 on my campaign to fight SB Syndrome.  Doesn't seem to matter where I turn, the affects still seem to be with us.  But to do my part, here is the next movement for you, or someone you know, to use to fight SB Syndrome. 

Remember, it's not just about vanity, it's also about keeping your core functioning and your lower back out of pain.  The glute/butt muscles play an important role in keep you out of pain. Because if they are too weak or not used appropriately your back and other muscles try to take over. And if you've ever had nagging back pain you know how uncomfortable and irritating it can be. So do your part. Feel free to pass on the info.

Be sure to stop by next week for another great movement to help you fight SB Syndrome.

Kurt Elder of Energy F/X Fitness discusses and demonstrates Hip Raises-- Single Leg (SL). A great exercise for the core and glutes. Simple and to the point. ...

Do You or Someone You Know Suffer From SB Syndrome?

OK, I'm going to say it if no one else will. Has anyone noticed how many people have saggy behinds (butts)? I've even heard the phenomenon referred to as Saggy Backside (butt) Syndrome. Now I don't mean to be rude or disrespectful, but c'mon.  I can't tell you how many times I'm asked for exercises that will tone, shape, and lift the area we all notice when people watching at the mall or beach.

And as long as we're being honest, who doesn't appreciate the look of a nice, firm, well shaped behind? 

But let's take the discussion to a functional level.  A study was done several years ago to find out the difference between people with "bad" backs versus people with "good" backs.  They did all sorts of testing, and analysis.  You know what they found? The long and short of it was, those people with "bad" backs had weaker glutes than those people with "good" backs. If your glutes (butt muscles) don't work properly, your back muscles will over work to make up for it. So having functioning, firm, shapely butt muscles is not only attractive, chances are it will keep you out of back pain as well.  Go figure.

Well lucky for you that I have succumb to the pressure of emails and inquiries.  For the month of October I'm going to share with you each week from my private locker of butt exercises, that I virtually guarantee will lift, tone, and shape that saggy backside.  No it won't be some pill, potion, magic pair of shoes, or ointment you can rub on your "effected" area.  You will actually have to put some work in and do the exercises as I specify if you want to get the results. But believe me when I tell you, you will get results.

Check out the video below for your first backside renovation.

Kurt Elder of Energy FX Fitness explains and demonstrates the proper technique for Hip Raises (two leg). A great exercise for both core and glute (butt) acti...