Exercise Programs Articles

Using Body-Weight Exercises

While free weights and machines can certainly make you stronger, don’t dismiss the effectiveness of exercises that use only your own body weight. As you master your own weight, you will not only look better; you will also learn how to train three-dimensional movement, acquire a greater kinesthetic awareness and become empowered as you perform tasks with your body. M...

Partner Exercises

by Sherri McMillan, MSc, and Alex McMillan
In today’s society, people struggle to find enough time to complete work-related projects, enjoy their loved ones and also take good care of themselves. A personal fitness trainer (PFT) who can demonstrate to clients that they can spend quality time with their sweetie or friends while helping each other stay healthy and fit will be in high demand! Partner training is more economical f...

Sample Class: Core Circuit Training

by Fred Hoffman, MEd
According to the 2005 IDEA Fitness Programs & Equipment Survey, 56% of respondents offer circuit classes, while 63% offer core conditioning. “Core Circuit” provides a great way to reap the benefits of both activities in a single session. This class uses closed-chained...

Plateau? Get Unstuck

It’s bound to happen. After months of enjoying strength gains, weight loss and the wonderful feeling of growing more flexible, you suddenly feel stuck. All the exciting changes have come to a halt, and you feel frustrated and discouraged. Your great new exercise habits are in danger of lapsing into good intentions. What’s going on?

Strength Training for Kids, Client Handout

andout Strength Training for Kids Do you want your kids to grow strong muscles and bones, shed fat and build self-confidence? Are you looking for an activity that will excite an overweight child about the joys of exercise? Strength training could be the solution. Here are answers to commonly asked questions about youth strength training from two experts in the subject: Wayne L. Westcott, PhD, fitn...

Weight Training Q & A

by Jason R. Karp, MS, PhD
Weight training is an extremely beneficial form of exercise but can be confusing if you’ve never done it. Jason R. Karp, MS, PhD student, college lecturer and track and field coach, answers frequently asked questions to start you on the right track. (Ask a personal trainer to set up a program specifically for you.)

Overcoming the Fear Factor

Fear of failure stops many people from exercising or trying new activities. According to David E. Conroy, PhD—assistant professor of kinesiology and director of the sport psychology lab at Pennsylvania State University, University Park—they may specifically fear the shame and embarrassment that come with failure. They may be afraid that they won’t fulfill their ideal self-image. The thought of not doing well at exercise may make them anxious that they are not as competent as they believed and lower their self-esteem.
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