Archive for ‘Flexibility/Stretching’

November 24, 2011

Fit Gift Ideas

What do you get someone that has everything? As you look for inspiration for that perfect gift, consider a few of our favorites things. We are affiliates with several great fitness products that I personally use to train myself, my wife and many of my clients. I love them and can’t get enough of them. And, many of my clients give them rave reviews. They are unique enough that you probably won’t see them in the stores. They are cool enough that they won’t be like giving your wife a vacuum for her birthday (even if she had really wanted it.) And, they are FUN!

You can pair any of these products with a training package or session or Workout Evolution Clinic, so the gift receiver will be ready to go.

July 30, 2011

Dynamic Warm-Ups

Flexibility: Static vs Dynamic Streching

Science has proven warm-ups utilizing dynamic stretching are more efficient and safer than static stretching. So, why then, is it so common to still see people warming up with static stretching moves? And, how can I implement dynamic stretching into my warm up safely?

July 28, 2011

Foam Rolling: Flexibility, Performance, Prevention and Rehabilitation

Self Myofascial Release Techniques
By Travis Grosjean, NASM certified Personal Trainer

What is foam rolling and how does it work?
Foam Rolling, the art of rolling your body along a large cylindrical foam, is a technique used to relax and restore muscles, increase circulation and improve range of motion and stability, which can result in more muscle, greater strength, improved athletic performance and decreased muscle soreness.

Foam rolling, or self-myofacial release, works like a deep sports massage, softening and lengthening the fascia and breaking down adhesions. The technique uses gentle, sustained pressure on soft tissues while applying traction to the fascia, the soft connective tissue just under the skin that wraps and connects the muscles, bones, nerves and blood vessels. For various reasons including disuse, not enough stretching, or injuries, the fascia and the underlying muscle tissue can become stuck together creating an adhesion. Your body will feel the limitations caused by the adhesion, in restricted muscle movement, pain, soreness and reduced flexibility or range of motion.