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Stay Cool (and in Shape!) With These Summer Fitness Tips

July 14, 2016 by

Taking your workout outdoors this summer? Staying hydrated and maintaining your body’s electrolytes and salts is crucial, especially during hot weather. Keep these tips in mind before breaking a sweat this season!

  • Running at the right hour of the day is important. You want to avoid exercising outside between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. because the sun is strongest then.
  • Wear light colors to reflect the sun and opt for cotton or other lighweight, sweat-wicking fabrics. Also be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF.
  • You want to drink 7 to 10 ounces of water every 15 minutes, even when you’re not thirsty. Continue to drink water before and after your workout.
  • Refrain from drinking hot coffee before your workout. It can leave you dehydrated and can prevent your body from cooling down effectively.
  • Eat a snack with protein and carbohydrates 30 minutes after your workout.

5 Ways to Exercise Safely in the Heat [U.S. News]
8 Tips for Exercising in Summer Heat [Active]
Essential Tips for Outdoor Exercise [Arm & Hammer]

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How to Lose Weight — Without Going Hungry!

December 17, 2015 by

Sure, a diet involves cutting back on fat and calories, but that doesn’t mean that you should ever feel hungry. Here are some tips for losing weight without going hungry.

  1. Don't fast. Trendy cleanse diets involve drinking only water, juice, or not eating anything at all in order to shed pounds. While you might lose a bit of weight at first, fasting actually slows your metabolism down and causes you to gain more weight once you start eating again.
  2. Always eat breakfast. Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day because it fuels you for the rest of the day. Try something with whole grains, protein, and fresh fruits and veggies to stay full without adding unnecessary calories.
  3. Stay away from starches. While foods like potatoes and breads will make you feel full very quickly, these food are filled with little more than carbs. Opt for whole grains or sweet potatoes instead.
  4. Plan your meals. If you plan your meals ahead of time, you won’t have to choose what to eat once your hunger starts to set in (which can lead to overeating).

Diet Myth or Truth: Fasting Is Effective for Weight Loss [WebMD]
10 Easy Ways to Lose Weight Without Starving [Men’s Health]
Losing Weight [CDC]

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New to Yoga? Check Out These Beginners’ Tips!

April 2, 2015 by

Yoga is a great way to center your mind, but if it’s your first time practicing it can also be a bit intimidating. If you’re unsure of what to wear to class or what to expect from your instructor, read these helpful tips before heading to the studio.

  1. Wear comfortable, close-fitting clothing. Instead of wearing loose shorts or pants like you normally would while exercising, you’ll feel more comfortable in something that fits closer to the body. Also, be sure to tie long hair back and remove your shoes before entering the studio.( See if your studio's website provides tips about what to wear to your first class.)
  2. Bring the proper supplies. You’ll need to stay hydrated throughout your class (even more so if it’s a hot yoga class), so be sure to bring a large water bottle. If you don’t own your own yoga mat, you can likely rent one at the studio for a small fee.
  3. Prepare your body. Most yoga experts recommend not eating large meals for up to three hours before class. To avoid low blood sugar, have a small snack right before class.
  4. Research. If you’re feeling nervous about your practice, look up basic poses like downward facing dog, child’s pose, and the sequence of warrior poses.
  5. Have the right attitude. Your instructor may adjust you during class, but it doesn’t mean that you’re doing a bad job. Stay positive, stay focused, and stay open to advice!

4 Essential Yoga Tips for Beginners [About.com]
7 Common Beginner Yoga Fails (And How to Avoid Them) [Women’s Health]
12 Yoga Tips for Beginners [Care2]

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