[12-Oct-2025 13:31:15 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-back-button-style.php:14 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-back-button-style.php on line 14 [12-Oct-2025 13:31:15 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-back-button-style.php:14 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-back-button-style.php on line 14 [12-Oct-2025 13:31:23 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined 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/home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-big-heading-style.php:13 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-big-heading-style.php on line 13 [12-Oct-2025 13:40:43 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-big-heading-style.php:13 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-big-heading-style.php on line 13 [12-Oct-2025 13:54:25 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-boxes-style.php:20 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-boxes-style.php on line 20 [12-Oct-2025 13:54:25 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-boxes-style.php:20 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-boxes-style.php on line 20 [12-Oct-2025 13:56:20 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-boxes-style.php:20 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-boxes-style.php on line 20 [12-Oct-2025 14:09:04 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-button-style.php:18 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-button-style.php on line 18 [12-Oct-2025 14:09:04 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-button-style.php:18 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-button-style.php on line 18 [12-Oct-2025 14:11:03 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-button-style.php:18 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-button-style.php on line 18 [12-Oct-2025 14:16:31 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-label-style.php:12 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-label-style.php on line 12 [12-Oct-2025 14:16:31 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-label-style.php:12 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-label-style.php on line 12 [12-Oct-2025 14:18:34 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-label-style.php:12 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-label-style.php on line 12 [12-Oct-2025 14:26:44 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-style.php:10 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-style.php on line 10 [12-Oct-2025 14:26:44 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-style.php:10 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-style.php on line 10 [12-Oct-2025 14:30:36 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-style.php:10 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-field-style.php on line 10 [12-Oct-2025 14:35:48 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-small-heading-style.php:12 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-small-heading-style.php on line 12 [12-Oct-2025 14:35:48 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-small-heading-style.php:12 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-small-heading-style.php on line 12 [12-Oct-2025 14:38:15 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cs_typography() in 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/home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-thumbnail-style.php:10 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-thumbnail-style.php on line 10 [12-Oct-2025 14:55:16 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-thumbnail-style.php:10 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-thumbnail-style.php on line 10 [12-Oct-2025 14:59:36 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function mk_cz_get_option() in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-thumbnail-style.php:10 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/wwwthehumantrain/public_html/wp-content/themes/jupiter/framework/admin/customizer/dynamic-styles/shop/checkout-cart/section-thumbnail-style.php on line 10 exercise ball – The Human Trainer https://www.thehumantrainer.com Total Body Portable Training System Tue, 06 Nov 2012 08:00:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.3.20 How To Choose Effective Fitness Equipment Suited For You https://www.thehumantrainer.com/choosing-fitness-equipment/ https://www.thehumantrainer.com/choosing-fitness-equipment/#respond Tue, 06 Nov 2012 08:00:00 +0000 http://thehumantrainer.com/choosing-fitness-equipment/

For many people, it is a difficult task to choose the right exercise equipment. This makes sense though, since there are hundreds of pieces of equipment to choose from. However, the best piece of exercise equipment is something basic. More importantly, anyone looking at exercise equipment needs to get what works for them, though there are certain staples that will work for everyone. Here are five ways to choose effective fitness equipment that will work for almost anyone.

Abs
Anyone looking to get abdominal muscles has an abundance of options, but the best piece of equipment for anyone looking to get abs is an exercise ball. Really, an exercise ball is perfect for someone who wants to workout anywhere. There are dozens of exercises that can be done with an exercise ball, and many of them work the core. My favorite way to use the exercise ball is to do a shoulder press with dumbbells. This involves sitting on the exercise ball with a straight back, while lifting the weights above one’s head. This not only works the shoulders, but also the core, because the core stabilizes the body. Anyone who wants to get abs needs an exercise ball in their collection!

Convenience
Resistance bands offer a way to work out just about anywhere, which is good, since a lot of people do not have the time or money to go to a gym. Exercise bands allow one to do any exercise that can be done with other methods. Resistance bands can be used for squats, bench press, and virtually any other basic movement. Resistance bands are also perfect for anyone wanting to stay in shape while they travel or are too busy to go to the gym.

Easy Cardio
Most exercisers overlook the importance of jump ropes, but this is a mistake. For instance, many boxers use jump ropes to improve both coordination and cardiovascular endurance. Jump roping can be done anywhere, and will cause anyone to sweat within a few minutes. Anyone looking to get into serious shape while improving coordination should consider buying a jump rope, and it’s not hard to see why!

Pull Up Bar
A pull up bar is a great additional to anyone’s exercise equipment. With a pull up bar, one can do do pull ups, chin ups, and even ab exercises in the blink of an eye. Many people assume it’d be a hassle to install one, but fortunately, there are many home pull up bars that are extremely easy to set up. They hook up on a door frame and hold up to a few hundred pounds. Pull ups are one of the best exercises for working the back, arms and shoulders all at once, and a pull up bar is terrific for anyone looking to stay in shape on a budget.


GUEST BLOGGER: Marcia Chester writes about fitness, shopping & more at http://www.homeequityloan.net

]]> https://www.thehumantrainer.com/choosing-fitness-equipment/feed/ 0 Deskercise: Working Out at Work. https://www.thehumantrainer.com/99deskercise-working-out-at-work/ https://www.thehumantrainer.com/99deskercise-working-out-at-work/#respond Thu, 19 Jul 2012 05:37:41 +0000 http://thehumantrainer.com/99deskercise-working-out-at-work/

 

The human body is designed to move, yet the average American sits at a desk job for approximately 10 hours a day. Prolonged sitting and staring at a computer all day can bring about all kinds of health problems such as: migraines, circulation diseases, weight gain, poor posture and eye strain. It’s no wonder such a large percentage of Americans are over-weight and unhealthy.

In continuation on the topic of my last article: Need a Raise? Exercise! (where I talked about how a recent study concluded that those who exercise get paid more) here are some tips to actually get some exercise while at the office, and maybe even help you get that raise!

“Exercise at the office? Well, I don’t want everyone to stare at me!” is probably the first thought that crossed most of your minds. Keep in mind that most of your co-workers are probably suffering from the same “desk issues” as you are. If you start exercising at your desk you’re probably more likely to start a trend then to have everyone pointing and laughing.

Still nervous?

There are plenty of “subtle” things you can do. Remember that any movement is better than no movement. Just simply taking the stairs, standing every half hour or so, or taking a stroll to the water cooler will at least help get the blood moving, and prevent muscle stiffness.

Other Minimal adjustments you should do include:

1. Get a good chair that is designed for deskwork in order to prevent posture problems associated with hunching over your computer keyboard. Set your chair backrest at an angle larger than 90°. Your back should be straight, your shoulders back, and the top of your computer monitor should be at eye level. Take it a step further and invest in a large size stability ball or stability ball-style desk chair. A stability ball will cause you to have to keep balance, so you will naturally sit straighter and work your core muscles. An actual stability ball is more effective, but the chair is a more feasible option to use at the office. When using the actual ball be sure to start off with no more than 15 minutes at a time in order to get your body used to it. You can even try a standing desk! For more info click here

2. To help prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome make sure your wrists don’t rest on the keyboard or mouse pad (unless you have a pad with a wrist rest).

3. Give your eyes a break from the computer and look out the window or at other objects in the room every 30 minutes or so. It is best to look at something at a distance to maintain ocular health. This will lessens chances of eyestrain and headaches.

4. Ab squeezes are a great way to get a mini ab workout. Tighten your ab muscles, hold for a few seconds and release. Repeat 15 times.

5. Drink plenty of water. Have a bottle of water by your side and make a habit of drinking at least 8 glasses throughout your day.   For all the great benefits you get from water read: A Secret Fix for Better Health.

 

Simple Stretching

Stretching is also a subtle way to keep your body moving. It will prevent muscles from clenching up and shortening, and is also a great stress release. Take advantage of certain work situations; stretch while on a call or waiting for a file to load.

Here are a few suggestions:

Neck: Bend your head to the right as if trying to put your right ear on your right shoulder. Grab your head with your right hand and gently pull your head down toward your shoulder until you feel a slight stretch on the left side of your neck. Hold for a few seconds. Release and repeat on the left side.

Shoulders: Roll your shoulders forward around 10 times, then backward.

Chest and Shoulders: Sitting up straight, lace your fingers behind you, palms facing each other. Slowly raise your hands, while simultaneously sticking out your chest. Hold, release and repeat.

Wrists: Extend your right arm in front of you, wrist bent with your fingers facing down and palm facing you. Place your left hand on the back of your right hand and gently push your palm towards you. Hold for 15-30 seconds and repeat with the other arm. Next, perform the same stretch, but with the palm facing away from you and fingers pointing up. Finish with a wrist rotation to help increase blood flow; first clockwise then counterclockwise.

Ankles: As with your wrists, rotate the ankles in a clockwise motion 3 times, then counterclockwise.

Legs: While sitting, lift your legs straight out in front of you, one at a time. Tense your quad muscle and flex your foot. Hold and then point your foot. Repeat with the other leg.

Lower Back: Place your hands, finger pointed downward on your lower back. Lean back and push your chest out and up, keeping your elbows pointing straight back. Hold for 15 seconds then relax. Repeat a couple of times.

Spine: Begin by sitting normally in your chair, and then move your legs toward the right side so that you are sitting on a diagonal. Turn your upper body towards the left and grab the back of your chair on the left side with your right hand. Don’t forget to breath. Hold for a few seconds and repeat on the left side. Resistance bands are great tools to help increase your stretches. Compact and light they are easy to store in desk drawers.

 

Feeling Adventurous?

If you don’t care what others think (good for you!), have a private office, or access to an empty conference room, here are some exercise ideas that will actually give you a great mini workout.

60-Second Cardio

Getting your heart pumping (even if it’s just for 60 seconds at a time) has been shown to increase longevity and decrease heart disease risk. Here are a few quickie cardio exercises to try between work tasks:

  •  Do as many jumping jacks as you can in one minute.
  • March in place for 60 seconds
  • Pretend jumping rope for a minute: Hop on alternate feet, or on both feet at once.
  • Do walk-lunges in your office or an empty conference room.

 

Strength-Building Exercises:

Chair Dips: To work your triceps and shoulders, place both hands on your chair arms, fingers facing forward, and slowly lift your bum off the chair. Lower yourself back down but stop short of fully sitting, hold for a few seconds. Repeat 15 times.

Desk pushups:  (only do if your desk is strong enough to support your weight.) Stand facing your desk and put your hands on it’s edge . Walk your feet backwards until your body is at a comfortable angle. Lower your chest towards your desk as far as you can, then slowly return to starting position. Do three sets of 8-12 reps.

Ab Crunch: Sit on the edge of your chair, lean back from the waist keeping your back straight. Hold the seat of your chair with both hands. With knees bent, lift both legs, while tightening your abs. Straighten your legs holding your heels up a few inches off of the floor. Do 10 reps.

Chair Squats: For a great leg and butt workout, begin by standing in front of your chair with your back towards it. Bend your knees and lower yourself. Tap your bum on the chair, then return to standing position. Keep your arms straight out in front of you to keep balance. Do 3 sets of 8-12 reps.

Glute Extensions: Holding your desk for support, keep legs straight, extend one leg behind you and lift it as high as you can (without arching your back). Do 3 sets of 8-12 reps. Repeat on the other side.

 

Make it a Team Sport!

Invite co-workers to join you on a lunchtime walk. Take it a step further and join a near by gym with your fav co-worker and go during your lunch hour. Having a workout buddy to hold you to it will keep you motivated. Many offices are now creating workout programs in office. Lobby your boss for a lunchtime yoga or tai chi class, or to allow the use of BreakPal.com. BreakPal.com is a great site that will send you mini workout ideas at time intervals of your choosing. There is a “Company Trial” link on their site!  

Remember that while exercising at your desk is helpful, you should still exercise for at least 30 minutes, 3 days a week. Don’t be shy! Go ahead and try a few of these deskercise suggestions. Taking short exercise breaks throughout your work day can energize you, reduce frequent pain, and actually make you more efficient at your job.  

 

Sources: wikihow.com, livestrong.com, webMD, workawesome.com  

]]> https://www.thehumantrainer.com/99deskercise-working-out-at-work/feed/ 0 Who’s Your BFF…er, Best Fitness Friend? Contest https://www.thehumantrainer.com/54who-s-your-bff-er-best-fitness-friend-contest/ https://www.thehumantrainer.com/54who-s-your-bff-er-best-fitness-friend-contest/#respond Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:42:08 +0000 http://thehumantrainer.com/54who-s-your-bff-er-best-fitness-friend-contest/

This Valentine’s Day, Astone Fitness wants to know who is your Best Fitness Friend! Your friend that best motivates you, makes sure you meet all your reps, and is always by your side. They are your go-to workout buddy.

Let us know who your best workout partner is and tell us your fitness goal, and both of you could win an Astone Advanced Core Pack and a box of Simply Bars!

 

How to enter:

  1. Go to our Facebook Page and check out our BFF contest Photo.
  2. Comment on the Photo with your 2012 fitness goal.
  3. Tag your BFF workout buddy in the comment.

Contest is open to Canada, United States, and Europe and closes February 29, 2012. The winners will be chosen randomly on March 1, 2012 and must have commented on our photo and tag their friend at the time of announcement (only one comment per person). Winners will be contacted via Facebook. Winners will also be featured on our blog and will able able to put in their two cents about fitness (100-150 words). We are excited to partner up with the Simply Bar to bring you this contest. What better way to replenish from your workout or start your day than with a Simply Bar. Learn more about the prizes below:

Astone Fitness – Advanced Core Pack

ripcords-advanced-core-trainingThis is kit is all about focusing and honing your core strength. It includes our bestselling exercise equipment: exercise ball, Ripcords (6 cords from light to heavy tension), Ripcords Circuit7 DVD and Core Circuit7 DVD. All items can be used in one workout to target the core muscles, lose weight, improve balance and posture. A great way to exercise at home or on the go with your workout buddy. More about Astone Fitness.

 

 

   

The Simply Bar

The Simply Bar Protein-rich. All Natural. Less the 11 ingredients. Non-GMO. Gluten-free. Low Cal. Low Sugar. Kosher. Vegan. That’s The Simply Bar. Simply Bars have at least 16 grams of protein for only 160 calories! Because of their protein content and high-quality ingredients, they meet your nutritional needs, while being easy to digest and taste! Perfect for athletes, vegans/vegetarians, pregnant women, celiacs (and other digestive sensitivities), and those looking to lose weight. Fill up on protein, not fat and calories. Read more about The Simply Bar.  

  Official Rules for “Who’s Your Best Fitness Friend ” Contest NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Eligibility: “Who’s Your Best Fitness Friend” (“Contest”) is open to all residents of the United States, Canada, and Europe who are at least eighteen (18) years or older. Employees of Astone Fitness Ltd. are not eligible to enter. Contest Period: “Who’s Your Best Fitness Friend” Contest will run from 09:00 AM PST February 1, 2012 to 11:59 PM PST February 29, 2012 on Facebook (“Contest Period”). Entries entered before or after the Contest Period will not be eligible. Prize: Two (2)  individuals will win a Astone Advanced Core Training Pack (valued at $97.85) and a case of chocolate Raspberry Simply Bars (valued at $30). The winners will be contacted through Facebook messages. If the prize is not claimed within 14 days of notification, we will choose another winner. Winner must provide us with contact information so we may send the prize. No substitution of prizes permitted. If the prize not claimed or returned as undeliverable it will be awarded to an alternate entrant. Sponsor: The Contest is sponsored by Astone Fitness Ltd., Unit 10b – 12851 Bathgate Way, Richmond, BC, V6V 1Y5, Canada (the “Sponsor”). The Contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook. Agreement to Official Rules: By entering the Contest, you indicate your full and unconditional agreement to, and acceptance of, (a) these Official Rules and (b) Sponsor’s decisions, which are final and binding. Winning a prize is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements outlined in the Official Rules. How to Enter: Entrants are required to “comment” on our Facebook page Photo Album on the designated photo with their fitness goal and tag a friend during the “Contest Period”. There is a limit of one (1) entry per person. Entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be returned. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for lost, incomplete, incorrect, or misdirected entries. Sponsor is not responsible for technical, hardware or software malfunctions, lost or unavailable network connections, or failed, incorrect, inaccurate, incomplete, or delayed electronic or other communications. Sponsor holds the right to disqualify any person who tampers with the entry process, the operation of the web site, or who violates these Official Rules. Contest Winner: On Thursday, March 1, 2012 Sponsor will select two (2) winners randomly. Winners will be notified via Facebook Messages. The winners has up to 14 days after the initial message was sent to reply to claim the prize. If the prize is not claimed, alternate winners will be chosen. Winners must be tagged in the comments section of the Contest Photo and must complete a 100-150 word write-up about Astone Fitness, fitness and the contest, once the Prizes have been received. General Conditions: In the event that the operation, security, or administration of the Contest is impaired in any way for any reason, Sponsor may, (a) suspend the Contest and then resume the Contest; or (b) award the prize from among the eligible entries received up to the time of the impairment. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to disqualify any individual it finds to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Contest or to be acting in violation of these Official Rules or in an disruptive manner. Release and Limitations of Liability: By participating in the Contest, you agree to release and hold harmless Sponsor, Facebook, their respective parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, and each of their respective officers, directors, employees, and agents (the “Released Parties”) from and against any claim or cause of action arising out of participation in the Contest or receipt or use of any prize, including, but not limited to: (a) unauthorized human intervention in the Contest; (b) technical errors related to computers, servers, providers, or telephone, or network lines; (c) printing errors; (d) errors in the administration of the Contest or the processing of entries; or (e) injury or damage to persons or property which may be caused, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, from entrant’s participation in the Contest or receipt or use of any prize. Privacy and Publicity: Any information submitted as part of the Contest will be used for purposes of this Contest and may be used for any marketing and promotional campaigns for Astone Fitness Ltd.

]]> https://www.thehumantrainer.com/54who-s-your-bff-er-best-fitness-friend-contest/feed/ 0 Let’s welcome the New Year! End of Season Sale https://www.thehumantrainer.com/39let-s-welcome-the-new-year-end-of-season-sale/ https://www.thehumantrainer.com/39let-s-welcome-the-new-year-end-of-season-sale/#respond Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:00:31 +0000 http://thehumantrainer.com/39let-s-welcome-the-new-year-end-of-season-sale/

 

Enter the New Year with a strong mind and body The New Year is right around the corner and we couldn’t be more excited. We have a feeling that 2012 will be bigger, better, and active. We decided we needed to kickoff the New Year now. We are having a huge sale throughout our whole store. And no matter what your fitness goals or New Year resolutions are, we have something for you. All our fitness products give you a complete workout that you can do at home or on the go. The following featured items are made for different intensities and works with all fitness level.

Check out our storewide sale from December 26 to 31.

 

50% off all Circuit7 DVDs

Circuit7 DVDs

Human Trainer, Ripcords, Free Weights, and Core DVDs $20.95 Now $10.45

Fat burning, Abs and Core, Defined Legs, and More $10.95 Now $5.45

 

Includes Astone fitness Exercise Ball
Advanced and Beginner Packs

 

10% Off Coupone Astone2012
 

Shop At Astone Fitness Free shipping on all orders over $75!

Additional Holiday Sales on The Human Trainer suspension gym and Ripcords resistance bands here.

]]> https://www.thehumantrainer.com/39let-s-welcome-the-new-year-end-of-season-sale/feed/ 0 Take Advantage of Winter – Winter Activities Make for a Great Workout! https://www.thehumantrainer.com/32take-advantage-of-winter-winter-activities-make-for-a-great-workout/ https://www.thehumantrainer.com/32take-advantage-of-winter-winter-activities-make-for-a-great-workout/#respond Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:00:26 +0000 http://thehumantrainer.com/32take-advantage-of-winter-winter-activities-make-for-a-great-workout/

Winter is officially only a couple weeks away… yes, already. It’s rainy, snowing, freezing, windy, dark early… BLAH!  Its no wonder 30% of people give up working out all together during the winter months. It’s a pretty good excuse to stay indoors and watch TV, but unfortunately it’s also at this frosty time of year that we instinctively want to eat more and therefore gain more weight (hibernation), which makes sticking to exercise even more crucial. Remember, sticking to your workout regime will help you shed those holiday pounds while increasing your overall health and quality of life.

Dragging your butt to the gym during a snowstorm may be a little tough on your morale. Over the next couple of weeks we will post blogs on winter wonderland activities that you can do close to home or even in the comfort of your own living room. They may even turn out to be great family bonding activities.

 

Shoveling

Most of us think of shoveling the driveway as a boring tedious chore, but if you change your tune and view it as a cardio workout, shoveling snow can burn you on average 300-500 calories/hour.

Home Workouts For those of you who have a home gym, you have no excuse to skip a workout. Here are some good equipment choices:

For a great indoor winter workout routine check out Men’s Health’s Article.

Skiing & Snowboarding The great thing about skiing and snowboarding is that you go through a whole body workout and don’t even know it cause you’re busy having fun! You are constantly using your legs, arms, and core to make turns, pick up speed, and keep your balance. The high intensity motion makes for a great cardio workout. Snowboarders and skiers can burn anywhere from 250-630 calories/hour.

Sledding Climbing up the hill is a great aerobic workout, and you’ll develop strength in your quads since you will be pulling the weight of the sled behind you.  Let’s not forget how much fun it is. Woo-hoo!

Don’t Forget To…

  • Do a warm up before going outside.

The cold makes muscles tense up and harder to warm up which can cause injury. Do some stretches and a warm up while still indoors, and start your workout slowly.

  •  Layer

Layering clothing is the best way to keep warm. The first layer against your skin should be made of a “wicking” material, (polyester, polypropylene, silk, or wool). Wicking clothes absorb sweat, stopping it from evaporating (which cools you off) Make sure clothing fits snugly to prevent cold air from getting in.

The second layer should be thicker to help insulate you. Choose clothes made of synthetic fibers, like fleece. 

For the third layer, choose a windproof, breathable fabric that shields you from the wind and rain.

Protect your hands, feet, and face in extreme cold by taking the same layering approach as you did with the rest of your body (wicking material socks/gloves first, synthetic pair over that). Protect your nose and mouth by wearing a ski mask or scarf. When skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling, protect your eyes by wearing protective goggles… AND WEAR A HAT!  30% of heat from the body is lost through the head.

 

As you can see, you don’t have to hibernate and wait for winter to pass before you can exercise again. Get out there and have some fun! Being outside not your thing? Then pick up some equipment and workout at home. There’s no excuse! Stay tuned for our next article with even more fun winter workout activities!

“LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW LET IT SNOW!!!”  

 

Information Source: bodybuilding.com  

]]> https://www.thehumantrainer.com/32take-advantage-of-winter-winter-activities-make-for-a-great-workout/feed/ 0 5 Tips for Better Abs https://www.thehumantrainer.com/275-tips-for-better-abs/ https://www.thehumantrainer.com/275-tips-for-better-abs/#respond Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:30:56 +0000 http://thehumantrainer.com/275-tips-for-better-abs/

Great abs are everyone’s dream, male and female alike, and this is perfectly understandable because fantastic abs make us look hot! The real secret to better abs lies in our personal determination, and the following five tips will see you through to far much better abs than you probably imagined.

1. Make a few diet adjustments

Try out simple diet adjustments such as reducing your intake of fats and refined sugars; and substitute the reduction with fruit and vegetable intakes. It’s helpful to note that proper dieting accounts for almost 90% of good abs development, so you must be willing to pay a lot of attention to everything that you put into your body in form of food. The best formula is to always keep your diet essential by locking out unnecessary intakes. Remember to eat within 60 minutes of your workout. For more info check out our article on: What to Eat Before and After your Workout 

2. Keep off sit-ups While the common belief is that exercises like sits-ups and crunches are great for enhancing better abs, the truth is they are not actually the best, and have been found to cause neck injuries and lower-back injuries over time.  The best exercises include military press, dead lifts, bench press, plank variations and dips.

3. Yoga Yoga is fantastic for abs. All you need to do is ensure your core is engaged throughout the 60 or so minutes of your yoga time. Static holds and leg raises are equally beneficial.

4. Rest your abs for 24-48 hours A lot of us think that consistent day-by-day workouts are the only way to achieve the results we want when targeting the abs. But you should actually take enough rest in between work-outs (preferably 24-48 hours.)  Sufficient rest gives your ab muscles a better chance to rebuild. The recommended rest period is two or three times a week, this will guarantee you far much better abs than working them out on daily basis.

5. Try an exercise ball as a work chair Exercise balls like the Astone Anti-Burst Exercise Ball are quickly emerging as exciting alternatives for the work chair and they bear immense benefits that will help put your abs in excellent position due to improved posture in the spine and lower back muscles. The exercise ball is not stable, so your body will be forced to balance itself on the ball, and as it does this, a proper spinal alignment is achieved and your core is engaged which is helpful to your abs. Additionally, with an exercise ball you will constantly need to change your position so you can balance. If you were typing for instance, and you turn to make a call or jot a few notes, your body will automatically take a new position. In short using an exercise ball as a work chair is simply a ‘license’ to constant exercises for your abs.

 

Achieving better abs should actually be part of your long term goals in as far as your health and fitness is concerned. It is going to take you some time and a good level of hard work, patience,  and discipline.

With this in mind alongside these five tips, your dream towards better abs is unstoppable!

For great Core-Workout Tips:Click here.                    

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