The fitness and martial arts industries have never been closer than they are today. In the past, martial arts had its unique following, and fitness fanatics had their own way of getting in shape. Due to the rapid growth of MMA (mixed martial arts) and fusion type exercise programs, an interesting blend has emerged. The latest entry into this hybrid space is TACTIX, which calls itself "the perfect blend of martial arts fitness, boot camp intensity, practical self defense, bodyweight exercises, metabolic conditioning, and dynamic flexibility."
First, let’s review the martial arts aspect. TACTIX uses a very specific blend of MMA conditioning, Krav Maga, Kung-fu and Muay Thai. If these names don’t mean much to you, just know that they are some of the world’s most effect forms of martial arts. The fitness component is a combination of dynamic flexibility (think martial arts yoga), fitness boot camp training, and a lot of core work.
There's no fighting, sparring or combat of any kind in TACTIX. There are specific drills that require working with a partner and striking pads, but it's all in good fun. TACTIX is about having fun, shedding pounds, and learning some realistic self-defense techniques.
If you are interested in experiencing TACTIX for yourself, Get more details by visiting his website at http://www.TACTIXofPhoenixville.com or by calling 484-202-0010.
Showing posts with label personal trainer in Chester county. Show all posts
Showing posts with label personal trainer in Chester county. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Clothes That Fit, Will Help You Stay Fit!
Did you spring-clean your home but forgot about those worn-out sneakers and old workout clothes living in your closet? Spring is a good time to update your exercise wardrobe, especially if your current clothes and shoes have seen better days.
You might think your exercise attire is not all that important! However, wearing the right kind of clothing can optimize your workout.
Many people believe that what they wear during a workout is not as important as the workout itself.
It’s true that the main focus should be your routine. Certainly, it is not necessary to be fashionable or trendy while exercising. But wearing ill-fitting clothing or garments made from wrong materials that chafe or irritate your skin can impact your comfort, flexibility, and performance. And, in some cases, they can even cause injuries.
When shopping for new exercise apparel this spring, pay special attention to the material, functionality and fit:
The bottom line is, that if you wear appropriate clothing, you will get much more benefit out of your workout.
You might think your exercise attire is not all that important! However, wearing the right kind of clothing can optimize your workout.
Many people believe that what they wear during a workout is not as important as the workout itself.
It’s true that the main focus should be your routine. Certainly, it is not necessary to be fashionable or trendy while exercising. But wearing ill-fitting clothing or garments made from wrong materials that chafe or irritate your skin can impact your comfort, flexibility, and performance. And, in some cases, they can even cause injuries.
When shopping for new exercise apparel this spring, pay special attention to the material, functionality and fit:
- “Cotton is a wonderful fabric for every-day wear, but not for a workout. It traps sweat and perspiration, weighing down your garment and clinging to your skin. So-called performance fabrics made of polyester and / or Lycra blends are a much better choice not only for clothing itself but also for socks, hats, and even underwear.”
- “Materials are very important but so is the fit – your clothes shouldn’t be so tight that they constrict you or limit your range of motion. Usually, garments that have some stretchable spandex will be most comfortable during exercise.”
- “Make sure your clothing is activity-appropriate. Baggy pants might be right for running but not for cycling. Generally speaking, you can’t go wrong with Capri leggings and a fitted top – they are great for any type of workout or sports activity.”
- “Feet can make or break your exercise routine – there is nothing worse than working out with painful blisters or other foot injuries. That’s why a pair of comfortable, well-fitting workout shoes should be your top priority. It is recommended to replace your workout footwear every five to six months, and you don’t have to pay big bucks for toning shoes. There’s no proof that these expensive sneakers provide a better workout than traditional sports-specific footwear.”
The bottom line is, that if you wear appropriate clothing, you will get much more benefit out of your workout.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Tactix What an awesome workout!
Ok so last night we had another free Demo of our Tactix class. What an awesome workout. This is not another Cardio Kickboxing class, you learn so much more and you don't even hear the music. I took the class myself to experience what our clients have been loving.
Your heart rate is slowly elevated with the warm-up and dynamic stretching and I was already starting to sweat. Since most were new we learned proper kicking and punching techniques. I learned how to put my power into the moves; deep lunges to front snap kicks, rotating elbow strikes. You truly get a sense of finding your inner strength and can picture how these moves could be used in self defense. And of course the sweat is just pouring off you at this point, your heart rate is at maximum levels.
Just when you think you are ready for a break then came out the mits and pads, and the adrenaline comes back and you are ready for more. Using your power against the pad, while your partner is straining to hold it steady. What an amazing sense of power and control you experience by directing your energy into the pad. Jab, cross, heal strike, elbow strike again... Wow it is just amazing what kind of core strength it takes to get those kicks and punches to land just perfectly on the pad.
Now your ready for a break, oh no now we need to do our adrenaline drills... Ok I have it in me the adrenaline is still rushing through me. So we run, speed punch, then run back and speed punch again.. not done yet add a jump squat, not done yet add a burpee almost done... 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.. Phew... Are we done? No, it's time to do some more core work then finish with an awesome stretching and flexibility sequence.
After experiencing the Tactix class for myself I could truly see why it could be addictive. I used every muscle in my body and boy was it awesome.
So if you are tired of the same old workout class, find a Tactix class near you. http://www.jmbfitness.com/TACTIXtraining.php
Your heart rate is slowly elevated with the warm-up and dynamic stretching and I was already starting to sweat. Since most were new we learned proper kicking and punching techniques. I learned how to put my power into the moves; deep lunges to front snap kicks, rotating elbow strikes. You truly get a sense of finding your inner strength and can picture how these moves could be used in self defense. And of course the sweat is just pouring off you at this point, your heart rate is at maximum levels.
Just when you think you are ready for a break then came out the mits and pads, and the adrenaline comes back and you are ready for more. Using your power against the pad, while your partner is straining to hold it steady. What an amazing sense of power and control you experience by directing your energy into the pad. Jab, cross, heal strike, elbow strike again... Wow it is just amazing what kind of core strength it takes to get those kicks and punches to land just perfectly on the pad.
Now your ready for a break, oh no now we need to do our adrenaline drills... Ok I have it in me the adrenaline is still rushing through me. So we run, speed punch, then run back and speed punch again.. not done yet add a jump squat, not done yet add a burpee almost done... 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.. Phew... Are we done? No, it's time to do some more core work then finish with an awesome stretching and flexibility sequence.
After experiencing the Tactix class for myself I could truly see why it could be addictive. I used every muscle in my body and boy was it awesome.
So if you are tired of the same old workout class, find a Tactix class near you. http://www.jmbfitness.com/TACTIXtraining.php
Monday, January 31, 2011
To Prevent Colds and Flu, Cough up some Exercise!
It’s the middle of winter and you are under attack by a silent enemy that invades your nose, throat and lungs, reducing you to a sneezing, sniffling and aching mess.
Yes, the flu season is here again, ready to strike our bodies and make us feel miserable for days or even weeks.According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza normally peaks in the United States in January and February, spreading like wildfire across the country. Along with the common cold, flu is the most contagious condition this time of year. Unfortunately, it takes more than an apple a day or a bowl of chicken soup to keep these nasty viruses away.
But while we can’t stop the spread of influenza, we can avoid getting sick by strengthening our defenses against the invading viruses. In fact, there are several ways to increase our immunity against the flu. Vaccination is the best protection, but there are other preventive measures you can take in addition to getting the shots. Basically, it’s a matter of boosting your immune system so it can stop viruses before they attack your body. This is where exercise is very effective.
Recent studies showing that exercise creates disease-fighting cells in the immune system, making it more resistant to colds, flu, and illnesses in general. And, these studies have also reported that while brisk activity is recommended, we don't have to work out to the point of exhaustion in order to get the immunity benefits of exercise.
Research proves that even people who work out moderately at least 30 minutes five days a week, increase the number of immune-system cells that circulate in the body and kill viruses and bacteria. These folks have 46 percent fewer colds than those who work out only once a week or not at all. And even if they do get ill, their symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, coughing, and runny nose are much less severe.
The message here is clear: If you work out on a regular basis, your immune system will heal your body quicker, with fewer complications. Sometimes, simplest things really do work best!
There are other good preventive measures besides exercise that protect our health during disease outbreaks. For example, eating vitamin-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, washing our hands frequently, and avoiding crowded public places that are real germ-fests, will also help. It all comes down to common sense, good judgment, and a healthy lifestyle.
Yes, the flu season is here again, ready to strike our bodies and make us feel miserable for days or even weeks.According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza normally peaks in the United States in January and February, spreading like wildfire across the country. Along with the common cold, flu is the most contagious condition this time of year. Unfortunately, it takes more than an apple a day or a bowl of chicken soup to keep these nasty viruses away.
But while we can’t stop the spread of influenza, we can avoid getting sick by strengthening our defenses against the invading viruses. In fact, there are several ways to increase our immunity against the flu. Vaccination is the best protection, but there are other preventive measures you can take in addition to getting the shots. Basically, it’s a matter of boosting your immune system so it can stop viruses before they attack your body. This is where exercise is very effective.
Recent studies showing that exercise creates disease-fighting cells in the immune system, making it more resistant to colds, flu, and illnesses in general. And, these studies have also reported that while brisk activity is recommended, we don't have to work out to the point of exhaustion in order to get the immunity benefits of exercise.
Research proves that even people who work out moderately at least 30 minutes five days a week, increase the number of immune-system cells that circulate in the body and kill viruses and bacteria. These folks have 46 percent fewer colds than those who work out only once a week or not at all. And even if they do get ill, their symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, coughing, and runny nose are much less severe.
The message here is clear: If you work out on a regular basis, your immune system will heal your body quicker, with fewer complications. Sometimes, simplest things really do work best!
There are other good preventive measures besides exercise that protect our health during disease outbreaks. For example, eating vitamin-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, washing our hands frequently, and avoiding crowded public places that are real germ-fests, will also help. It all comes down to common sense, good judgment, and a healthy lifestyle.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Spread Holiday Cheer with useful Exercise Gear
‘Tis the season of gift giving and receiving, but many of us are stumped when it comes to buying just the right present for those special people in our lives.
However, if that “special someone” is a fitness buff, finding a perfect gift he or she will enjoy for months is a snap.
Money is tight for a lot of people, but fortunately there are so many great exercise-related items on the market that will fit any budget without overstretching it.
When it comes to buying exercise gear, opt for practical and useful items rather than “eye candy” gadgets that may look nice but will not be of much benefit to the recipient.
“As a general rule, anything that makes workouts more efficient and fun will be a hit,” she points out.
Another thing to consider while gift shopping, is the recipient’s fitness level. “Is that person an experienced exerciser with a regular routine, a beginner, or a fence sitter who needs inspiration, motivation and guidance to start exercising? Take all these factors into account when choosing a gift.”
For example, someone who is not sure what workout to opt for might benefit from a subscription to a fitness and health magazine - a good starting point to a regular physical activity and healthy lifestyle.
Some of the other “you-can’t-go-wrong” gift ideas are:
• Athletic shoes and / or workout apparel: “Avid exercisers wear out their shoes after a few months, so a gift certificate for a new pair would certainly be appreciated. The same goes for clothes – not everyone likes to work out in old sweats!” I recommend going to an actual running store and get a gift certificate. Running stores have knowledgeable staff and will actually suggest sneakers that are right for the individuals feet.
• Equipment. “Here, the possibilities are endless. It could be something as simple and inexpensive as a heart rate monitor, hand weights, mats, towels, a lightweight water bottle, or sunglasses and sunscreen for outdoor fitness enthusiasts.”
• Quality athletic socks “that will reduce friction, provide good cushioning, and keep the feet dry, preventing the formation of painful blisters and athlete’s foot.”
• Fitness diary / journal where the exerciser can keep track of his or her progress - whether logging caloric intake, weight loss, or weekly workouts.
• A gift certificate for an exercise program in the recipient’s local community – “preferably one that offers a variety of workouts such as cardio, resistance, flexibility and interval training.”
Happy Holidays!
However, if that “special someone” is a fitness buff, finding a perfect gift he or she will enjoy for months is a snap.
Money is tight for a lot of people, but fortunately there are so many great exercise-related items on the market that will fit any budget without overstretching it.
When it comes to buying exercise gear, opt for practical and useful items rather than “eye candy” gadgets that may look nice but will not be of much benefit to the recipient.
“As a general rule, anything that makes workouts more efficient and fun will be a hit,” she points out.
Another thing to consider while gift shopping, is the recipient’s fitness level. “Is that person an experienced exerciser with a regular routine, a beginner, or a fence sitter who needs inspiration, motivation and guidance to start exercising? Take all these factors into account when choosing a gift.”
For example, someone who is not sure what workout to opt for might benefit from a subscription to a fitness and health magazine - a good starting point to a regular physical activity and healthy lifestyle.
Some of the other “you-can’t-go-wrong” gift ideas are:
• Athletic shoes and / or workout apparel: “Avid exercisers wear out their shoes after a few months, so a gift certificate for a new pair would certainly be appreciated. The same goes for clothes – not everyone likes to work out in old sweats!” I recommend going to an actual running store and get a gift certificate. Running stores have knowledgeable staff and will actually suggest sneakers that are right for the individuals feet.
• Equipment. “Here, the possibilities are endless. It could be something as simple and inexpensive as a heart rate monitor, hand weights, mats, towels, a lightweight water bottle, or sunglasses and sunscreen for outdoor fitness enthusiasts.”
• Quality athletic socks “that will reduce friction, provide good cushioning, and keep the feet dry, preventing the formation of painful blisters and athlete’s foot.”
• Fitness diary / journal where the exerciser can keep track of his or her progress - whether logging caloric intake, weight loss, or weekly workouts.
• A gift certificate for an exercise program in the recipient’s local community – “preferably one that offers a variety of workouts such as cardio, resistance, flexibility and interval training.”
Happy Holidays!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Exercise Boosts Your Immune System
With autumn officially here, we become more prone to colds, coughs, sneezes, sniffles, runny noses, and sore throats that will make us feel miserable through the winter months.
As seasons and weather change, our immune system becomes more vulnerable and less resistant to various infections
Fortunately, finding ways to bolster your immune system is not exactly rocket science.
The good news is that something as simple as regular exercise can keep all those pesky viruses, germs and bacteria at bay. Among many other benefits of physical exercise is that it is a great immunity booster.
In fact, research cited by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), a leading organization in sports medicine and exercise science,shows that regular exercise can help boost the immune system by either stopping viruses in their tracks before they attack us, or by reducing the duration of cold symptoms by half as compared to those who do not exercise.
These findings are borne out by various studies demonstrating that regular exercise produces macrophages, the cells that defend the body against bacteria.
During a moderate workout, these cells circulate through the body, killing viruses and bacteria. And although the immune system returns to its pre-exercise levels very quickly, each workout session appears to reduce the risk of infection over the long term.
That may explain why – as studies indicate – people who work out regularly report fewer colds than non-exercisers.
Certainly, exercise is not a cure-all for whatever ails you, and even the most ardent fitness aficionados will get sick once in a while. However, there is all this compelling evidence suggesting that exercise may lower your risks of common infections.
Now that you know just how beneficial regular workouts can be for your immune system, what kind of fitness regimen should you choose?
Luckily, exercises that are most effective in strengthening the immune system are also those that are great for your heart, weight control, and your health in general, so it’s a ‘win-win’ situation. Boot camps and functional training are really terrific because they focus on the entire body, as well as on core and cardiovascular fitness, balance, strength and agility.
And since boot camp workouts are fun and varied, there is less risk of getting bored than with a regimen that is either monotonous or depends heavily on gym equipment.
If boosting your immune system – and health in general – is your goal, then you certainly shouldn’t choose a fitness routine that will get you into a rut and will make you want to give up. The point is to make exercising so enjoyable that you will want to continue. And our progrms do just that.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Workout 4 A Cause Charity Event - August 14th
Most of us saw the news and or read the story in the Daily Local News over the past month about a local man, Kevin Mengel Jr., who was killed by his wife and her boyfriend.
Many of us also know that this young man’s father is Kevin Mengel Sr. - owner of FastSigns in Exton. Kevin Mengel Sr. is a member and strong supporter of our On Tap Network, he is also a long-time member of the Exton Region Chamber of Commerce, former Chairman of the Board and a good friend to all.
Great Valley Adventure Boot Camp will be holding a Special Saturday Boot Camp in the West Chester Area on August 14th at 9am. All proceeds will go directly to the "Kevin Mengle Jr. Children's Trust.
Many of us also know that this young man’s father is Kevin Mengel Sr. - owner of FastSigns in Exton. Kevin Mengel Sr. is a member and strong supporter of our On Tap Network, he is also a long-time member of the Exton Region Chamber of Commerce, former Chairman of the Board and a good friend to all.
Great Valley Adventure Boot Camp will be holding a Special Saturday Boot Camp in the West Chester Area on August 14th at 9am. All proceeds will go directly to the "Kevin Mengle Jr. Children's Trust.
The donation for each attendee is $5 or more, to help the children through this difficult time and have a significant impact on their future.
Please Help Us Make this event Successful.
When: Saturday August 14th 9:00AM
Where: West Goshen Community Park, West Chester
What to Bring: Exercise Mat, Water, and a Towel
Please Note: Each Participant will be asked to complete a brief medical history and release in advance of attending camp to be sure we are aware of any conditions for which you will need modification of exercises.
Register or make a Donation at http://www.Workout4ACause.com
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Personal Trainers own journey with getting healthy...join me today
So here we go, here is another person's story, why would anyone care? I may not be famous but I have a story just like you have a story to tell. I just turned 40 and realized that my life has only just begun. Yes I am a Personal Trainer and an Adventure Boot Camp owner, but I am still a person that has a story that I believe needs to be told....
I would like to invite you on my journey or my story of getting healthy. Have I arrived today? Not at all... am I closer than I was a year ago, yes I believe I am. Is this another story about a person who loses weight, runs a marathon, completes a triathlon, overcomes some major health crisis, or tragedy? Well it could be if you choose to read and follow my own journey for the next year... See I have started a journey and I am inviting you to come along for the ride. For years I have tried to connect with that one part of myself that I lost due to my own life experiences. I am seeking peace in my own world of self turmoil. I have been afraid to embrace that one side of myself that I felt has failed me... my spiritual side...As I embark on this new stage of my journey, I am putting my story out on a limb that hopefully you may connect or relate to your own journey. So join me on this journey of spiritual self discovery and pay attention to my posts... give me your comments and your own stories that may relate. Believe me it can be very therapeutic to connect with others who have experienced life in a similar way...
I would like to invite you on my journey or my story of getting healthy. Have I arrived today? Not at all... am I closer than I was a year ago, yes I believe I am. Is this another story about a person who loses weight, runs a marathon, completes a triathlon, overcomes some major health crisis, or tragedy? Well it could be if you choose to read and follow my own journey for the next year... See I have started a journey and I am inviting you to come along for the ride. For years I have tried to connect with that one part of myself that I lost due to my own life experiences. I am seeking peace in my own world of self turmoil. I have been afraid to embrace that one side of myself that I felt has failed me... my spiritual side...As I embark on this new stage of my journey, I am putting my story out on a limb that hopefully you may connect or relate to your own journey. So join me on this journey of spiritual self discovery and pay attention to my posts... give me your comments and your own stories that may relate. Believe me it can be very therapeutic to connect with others who have experienced life in a similar way...
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Save Money by Hiring a Personal Trainer...
How many times have you spent lamenting over how you have failed at reaching your fitness goals? Did you dust off your treadmill and remove all the clothes hanging from it and start trying again? Maybe you found your gym membership card or put the directions back in your GPS to find your way back to the gym. Have you resolved again this year to lose the weight and get rid off that excess jiggle?
But have you truly made the decision in your mind or were you just having another conversation with yourself or your loved ones how you are going to make that commitment. Yes life is hard, you have no time, "you just don't understand, I have tried all the exercise and diet fads." The fads maybe work for a little while and then you lose focus or interest or find your excuses "at least I tried", I do get that..
Did you know that 95% of the diets or fad exercise programs don't work! Why, do you ask? Because you are not the same as everyone else, you are unique and your reason for quitting on your health is not the same reason your neighbor, sister, or even your spouse quits. So are you destined to fail again this year?
Your are only destined to fail if you chose to quit on yourself and your health, mental and physical. Sure finding guidance from the experts is great way to help you achieve your goals however those experts are only guides and coaches. The best experts out there can help you with the tools but they will not do it for you, that is ultimately up to you.
So are you going to "try" again at reaching those crazy goals or are you going to start your action plan today. Did you know you can start your life any day of the week it doesn't always have to be Monday? Stop letting those old messages stop you forget about your past mistakes and start fresh today, right now get up and start doing, start making those dreams of health come to life!!
Did you know you could save money by getting the help of a coach or a Personal Trainer? How do you ask.. Think about it, if you are focused on attaining a healthy body today, you won't have to purchase a new wardrobe next year at this time because you failed one more time. By getting moving and healthy you can save your dollars from adding one more prescription or one more Dr. visit this year. Commit to saving money today and enlist the help of the experts...
A personal trainer should be, at the least, educated and certified through a reputable fitness organization. This person's job is to assess your fitness level, set up a program for you and keep you motivated. He or she will push you past your comfort level--something difficult to do on your own. A trainer also provides:
• guidance on reaching your goals
• education about strength training, cardio and basic nutrition
• a reason to show up at the gym each week
• accountability
• ways to help track your progress
So think about it invest in saving money today, get the help you need enlist the help of Personal Trainer, and start saving for a bigger retirement....
But have you truly made the decision in your mind or were you just having another conversation with yourself or your loved ones how you are going to make that commitment. Yes life is hard, you have no time, "you just don't understand, I have tried all the exercise and diet fads." The fads maybe work for a little while and then you lose focus or interest or find your excuses "at least I tried", I do get that..
Did you know that 95% of the diets or fad exercise programs don't work! Why, do you ask? Because you are not the same as everyone else, you are unique and your reason for quitting on your health is not the same reason your neighbor, sister, or even your spouse quits. So are you destined to fail again this year?
Your are only destined to fail if you chose to quit on yourself and your health, mental and physical. Sure finding guidance from the experts is great way to help you achieve your goals however those experts are only guides and coaches. The best experts out there can help you with the tools but they will not do it for you, that is ultimately up to you.
So are you going to "try" again at reaching those crazy goals or are you going to start your action plan today. Did you know you can start your life any day of the week it doesn't always have to be Monday? Stop letting those old messages stop you forget about your past mistakes and start fresh today, right now get up and start doing, start making those dreams of health come to life!!
Did you know you could save money by getting the help of a coach or a Personal Trainer? How do you ask.. Think about it, if you are focused on attaining a healthy body today, you won't have to purchase a new wardrobe next year at this time because you failed one more time. By getting moving and healthy you can save your dollars from adding one more prescription or one more Dr. visit this year. Commit to saving money today and enlist the help of the experts...
A personal trainer should be, at the least, educated and certified through a reputable fitness organization. This person's job is to assess your fitness level, set up a program for you and keep you motivated. He or she will push you past your comfort level--something difficult to do on your own. A trainer also provides:
• guidance on reaching your goals
• education about strength training, cardio and basic nutrition
• a reason to show up at the gym each week
• accountability
• ways to help track your progress
So think about it invest in saving money today, get the help you need enlist the help of Personal Trainer, and start saving for a bigger retirement....
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