In the research, this mind-muscle connection is referred to as “attentional focus”. This is the practice of directing our attention to the muscle or group of muscles we wish to activate during a particular exercise. For example, during a cable-pull through, we want to target the posterior chain. This primarily includes the glutes and hamstrings, … Continue reading Mind-Muscle Connection: Fact or Fiction?
In an effort to encourage moving more throughout the day, many companies and individuals are moving to standing desks or adjustable sit-stand desks However, be aware that moving from seated to standing while maintaining improper posture is simply allowing the problem to continue in a different position. Standing is often seen as the fix. However, if … Continue reading Straighten Up Your Posture
Constant low back pain. Tight hip flexors and hamstrings. Weak abs. Does any of this sound familiar? Instead of looking at each of these symptoms individually, we have to remember the body is interconnected. Each of these can be tied back to one structure: the hips. Let’s take a look at the common posture. This … Continue reading It’s All in the Hips
A few weeks ago, I touched on how we should get back to the basics and focus on the body in terms of movement, not only muscles. This leads me to this new series: Movement Mechanics. Each article and associate podcast will cover a major movement pattern and continue to reframe our thinking to recognize … Continue reading Movement Mechanics: The Core
This week, I have an article for my coaches and fitness professionals who read my blog. If you're an exerciser, be sure to check out the podcast episode that goes with this article. You may find it more helpful. Last week, I referenced how the fitness industry is failing. Despite this, the industry is growing. … Continue reading Back to Basics
This is the second article in a two-part series. Click here to read the first installment about how to find your why and why it’s important. Once you’ve found your why, what are the next steps? We’ve uncovered a huge motivator, but it’s just that: huge. A large goal can seem daunting, even with the … Continue reading Find Your Why: The Next Steps
Recently, I’ve started saying “I’m going to train” instead of “I’m going to work out.” An obvious continuation of the conversation, this leads one to ask if I’m training for a race, competition, etc. But currently, I’m not training for an event. Yes, I’m working toward my goal of fat loss but this includes an … Continue reading I Don’t Workout. I Train.
Limited are the days of searching for information in books at the library. Though some college professors still require it, the majority of research and information seeking is now online. It's more common to see people searching online databases as opposed to combing through bookshelves. Having nearly unlimited information at our fingertips is amazing. No … Continue reading The Basics of Peer-Reviewed Research: Finding Reliable and Accurate Information
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