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 valley forge boot camp. Show all posts
Showing posts with label valley forge boot camp. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Monday, February 21, 2011
WHEN IT COMES TO EXERCISE, THREE (OR MORE) IS A COMPANY
You know that regular physical activity is good for you. What you may not know is that the company you keep while you work out is just as important.
New research suggests that you get even more benefit from your exercise routine if you work out in a group. Studies found that social isolation could decrease or delay the benefits of exercise; on the other hand, camaraderie helps create new neurons in the area of the brain associated with learning. Earlier studies also suggest that group exercise unleashes a flood of endorphins in the brain, which create a natural “high” – the reason why they are known as “feel good” hormones.
If you prefer to work out alone, that’s fine; it’s certainly much better than not exercising at all, however, as the study’s findings show, exercising in a group setting offers many more advantages.
Here are four of the numerous benefits of a group workout are:
Encouragement and motivation. “When you exercise alone, you have nobody there to keep you honest and you might be tempted to throw in the towel. Your group will encourage you to keep going.”
Support. “Don’t underestimate the importance of emotional support you can get from your fitness buddies and your trainer. Just like in any social situation, doing activities with other people is more stimulating and fun than going it alone.”
Shared goals. “Whether it’s losing those extra ponds, or improving strength and muscle tone, you know others in the group are trying to accomplish the same goals. That creates a wonderful bond.”
Self-esteem. “The combination of improving your fitness, meeting new people, and keeping up your energy level with the others in your group will give you a great confidence boost.”
By incorporating interval, strength, endurance, and flexibility drills, the camps provide a total body workout. Everyone works to keep you on track and feeling good about your progress. Another perk, is that boot camp sessions are less expensive than many gym memberships or personal training sessions, an important consideration in this sluggish economy. No wonder the American Council on Exercise and American College of Sports Medicine have been naming boot camps as one of the hottest fitness trends for several years running – including in 2011.
If you prefer to work out alone, that’s fine; it’s certainly much better than not exercising at all, however, as the study’s findings show, exercising in a group setting offers many more advantages.
Here are four of the numerous benefits of a group workout are:
Encouragement and motivation. “When you exercise alone, you have nobody there to keep you honest and you might be tempted to throw in the towel. Your group will encourage you to keep going.”
Support. “Don’t underestimate the importance of emotional support you can get from your fitness buddies and your trainer. Just like in any social situation, doing activities with other people is more stimulating and fun than going it alone.”
Shared goals. “Whether it’s losing those extra ponds, or improving strength and muscle tone, you know others in the group are trying to accomplish the same goals. That creates a wonderful bond.”
Self-esteem. “The combination of improving your fitness, meeting new people, and keeping up your energy level with the others in your group will give you a great confidence boost.”
By incorporating interval, strength, endurance, and flexibility drills, the camps provide a total body workout. Everyone works to keep you on track and feeling good about your progress. Another perk, is that boot camp sessions are less expensive than many gym memberships or personal training sessions, an important consideration in this sluggish economy. No wonder the American Council on Exercise and American College of Sports Medicine have been naming boot camps as one of the hottest fitness trends for several years running – including in 2011.
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!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Get off the Couch and Start Moving
When it comes to physical fitness, we are not exactly a nation of movers and shakers. In fact, according to a just-released survey, a staggering 95.9 percent of respondents lead mostly sedentary lifestyles.
The study, published in the October 2010 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, reports that only 5 percent of 80,000 Americans surveyed for this research, engage in physical exercise on any given day.
These findings are truly alarming! Regular exercise is essential for our health, but far too many people prefer inactivity, exposing themselves to many diseases and even premature death. It is a well-established fact that sedentary lifestyle along with poor dietary habits can lead to type 2 diabetes, obesity, certain forms of cancer, heart disease, strokes, and a host of other chronic ailments.
According to US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), another major study linked sedentary lifestyles to 23 percent of deaths from major – and mostly preventable - chronic diseases.
The good news is that many medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease - the number 1 killer of Americans - could be prevented with sensible eating and regular exercise.
DHHS says physical activity can reduce the risk of developing or dying from heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, and high blood pressure. On average, people who are physically active outlive those who are inactive.
It is absolutely mind-boggling that many serious and potentially fatal diseases could be prevented with something as simple as exercise. Fortunately, getting – and staying - in shape is easy, just take a look at the Physical Activity Guidelines recently issued by the DHHS.
They are the most comprehensive recommendations ever published and they stress the importance of exercise. Of particular interest is the recommendation that, for optimum effect, people should do a variety of workouts, such as moderate and vigorous-intensity activities, as well as muscle-strengthening exercises.
It may not be clear to a lot of people just what kind of exercises they should be doing. They may be totally motivated to start getting fit but then they hit a brick wall because they have no clue which exercise works best on which part of the body or muscle group. This is where fitness camps and programs designed by a reputable professional are really a great value. Because they vary exercise routines, focusing on resistance, flexibility and interval training, boot camps are very effective not only for cardiovascular health but also for weight loss, improved immunity, stronger bones, joints and muscles, and overall physical and mental well-being.
In view of the frightening statistics reported by the new study, I am issuing a “call to action” to all those who’d rather sit in front of TV than exercise: “Wake up and smell the coffee. But after you drink it, start working out like your life and health depended on it – because they do!”
The study, published in the October 2010 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, reports that only 5 percent of 80,000 Americans surveyed for this research, engage in physical exercise on any given day.
These findings are truly alarming! Regular exercise is essential for our health, but far too many people prefer inactivity, exposing themselves to many diseases and even premature death. It is a well-established fact that sedentary lifestyle along with poor dietary habits can lead to type 2 diabetes, obesity, certain forms of cancer, heart disease, strokes, and a host of other chronic ailments.
According to US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), another major study linked sedentary lifestyles to 23 percent of deaths from major – and mostly preventable - chronic diseases.
The good news is that many medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease - the number 1 killer of Americans - could be prevented with sensible eating and regular exercise.
DHHS says physical activity can reduce the risk of developing or dying from heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, and high blood pressure. On average, people who are physically active outlive those who are inactive.
It is absolutely mind-boggling that many serious and potentially fatal diseases could be prevented with something as simple as exercise. Fortunately, getting – and staying - in shape is easy, just take a look at the Physical Activity Guidelines recently issued by the DHHS.
They are the most comprehensive recommendations ever published and they stress the importance of exercise. Of particular interest is the recommendation that, for optimum effect, people should do a variety of workouts, such as moderate and vigorous-intensity activities, as well as muscle-strengthening exercises.
It may not be clear to a lot of people just what kind of exercises they should be doing. They may be totally motivated to start getting fit but then they hit a brick wall because they have no clue which exercise works best on which part of the body or muscle group. This is where fitness camps and programs designed by a reputable professional are really a great value. Because they vary exercise routines, focusing on resistance, flexibility and interval training, boot camps are very effective not only for cardiovascular health but also for weight loss, improved immunity, stronger bones, joints and muscles, and overall physical and mental well-being.
In view of the frightening statistics reported by the new study, I am issuing a “call to action” to all those who’d rather sit in front of TV than exercise: “Wake up and smell the coffee. But after you drink it, start working out like your life and health depended on it – because they do!”
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Did you know the "average American can gain 9lbs during the holidays and never lose it?
Have you ever sat down to a meal whether you are home or out and stressed over what you were going to eat? The whole time you were eating you focus on what foods are "good" and "bad" and forget to taste your food? You mentally check out of eating and compartmentalize your foods into the "forbidden" and "allowable" foods? Did you ever eat, then forget what you just ate and suddenly become hungry again?
The holidays have the ability to bring your relationship with food to the forefront.
Let's take a leap on the wild side and say that eating what you want during this time of year is not a bad thing. If your holiday pleasure comes from eating those family favorites then take this time to embrace that pleasure you get from those foods. Those foods do not make you gain weight, it is the amount of time you take to eat and the quantity of those "forbidden" foods, that assist in your weight gain.
If you are setting yourself up to stress about the consumption of these foods, your stress level can affect your appetite and your metabolism. If you are thinking about what you are eating in a negative way rather than experiencing the actual intake of the food, your body will not realize it has consumed those wonderful foods and still crave those foods. In other words, you need to pay attention to what you are eating.
Mindlessly doing anything can be bad, especially driving, however eating mindlessly can also be detrimental to your wasteline. So, try not to text while you drive or eat while you drive. Don't be part of the American population that runs from experience to experience looking for a solution, gratification or results in less than 10 seconds. Help yourself this holiday season and balance your life. Relish those wonderful treats you crave all year long, take the time to taste every bite and fill your soul with the wonderful memories you should experience with your friends and family.
The holidays have the ability to bring your relationship with food to the forefront.
Let's take a leap on the wild side and say that eating what you want during this time of year is not a bad thing. If your holiday pleasure comes from eating those family favorites then take this time to embrace that pleasure you get from those foods. Those foods do not make you gain weight, it is the amount of time you take to eat and the quantity of those "forbidden" foods, that assist in your weight gain.
If you are setting yourself up to stress about the consumption of these foods, your stress level can affect your appetite and your metabolism. If you are thinking about what you are eating in a negative way rather than experiencing the actual intake of the food, your body will not realize it has consumed those wonderful foods and still crave those foods. In other words, you need to pay attention to what you are eating.
Mindlessly doing anything can be bad, especially driving, however eating mindlessly can also be detrimental to your wasteline. So, try not to text while you drive or eat while you drive. Don't be part of the American population that runs from experience to experience looking for a solution, gratification or results in less than 10 seconds. Help yourself this holiday season and balance your life. Relish those wonderful treats you crave all year long, take the time to taste every bite and fill your soul with the wonderful memories you should experience with your friends and family.
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