Here's The Second One For Core

Had some technical difficulties yesterday.  Can you say no internet or cable?  Thank goodness they came and fixed it quickly.

Now on to the business at hand.

This month I'm sharing with you core exercises using the Swiss Ball.  The purpose of the Swiss Ball, if you're not familiar with it, is to add increased instability.  By adding increased instability to your training, you increase the functioning and efficiency of your core musculature.

And as you all already know, a strong core is one of the most important aspects of being fit.  You can't truly call yourself in-shape if your core doesn't function properly.  Because to be quite honest, all movement first comes from the core.  It stabilizes your body just prior to any movement you do.  And if it's weak, other muscles take over a job they are not meant to do.  Now of course we all know what happens when you use the wrong tool for a job -- in this case possible injury. 

So don't skip the important exercises.  Train the muscles that matter as well as the muscles you can see

I'll have another one for you next week.

Ski Season Ready -- Core Exercise Review

Well here we are again on a Friday.  Two weeks left in the year and it will be time to start with a clean slate. Time to apply all the things we learned about ourselves in 2010.  It will be time to step up to the next level. 

But right now it's time for the next installment on getting you ready for ski season.  An opportunity for me to share with you the process that will keep you healthy for the entire season so you can enjoy what you love doing -- skiing, snowboarding or ice skating.

First we started with the all important self-massage.  You have to get the muscles properly warmed-up, prepared, to work before you can do anything.  Then last week I shared with you some important stretches to make sure you're flexible and your range of motion is improved. Ice, snow and generally unstable surfaces are nothing to play with. So now you should be ready for the next stage in your preparation for a heck of an active winter season.

This week I will share with you the next stage in training properly for a successful winter-fun season.  The all important core/abs. That will be followed by some new movements such as single leg exercises, and a host of lunges to make sure your hips are flexible and stable in various positions.

So let's do a little review first shall we?  Let's make sure the proper core work is being done so that that area is prepared to handle the challenging leg exercises that are to follow.  I know, too many people like to just skip over this part of their preparation, believing that it is really not all that important.  But let me assure you, a strong core is by far one of the most important pieces to being physically fit for any activity. 

Next week let's blast those hips and legs.

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...