Understanding The Different Types Of Playgrounds For Children

Most places that have kids around them for an extended period of time will have some sort of playground or other entertainment for children.  Even though there may be a playground at most places, people often fail to fully understand why there is a difference between the types.  The reality is that each place has its own purpose to serve when it comes to playgrounds, and as such they are all built differently from one another.  It is important if one has kids to know the different types so the parent does not bore the child by taking them to the same types of playgrounds over and over again.

Commercial Playgrounds
The first type is the commercial playground environment.  These are usually associated with a restaurant business such as McDonald’s or Burger King to entice parents and children to visit.  Most of these setups are contained indoors these days and are usually centered around one large play structure.  While there are sometimes a few things to do, to save space and prevent a lot of chaos they usually put them within the structures so the children can have fun on their own and the parents do not have to worry about keeping an eye on them constantly since there is only one exit point.  While these playgrounds are good for visiting for a little while, they often get boring quickly because of the lack of variety in what they offer.

Utilizing School Playgrounds
School playgrounds are another great place to bring kids, even if they do not attend the school.  These are usually laid out in a large area and have a wide-open spot for football games or other things that do not require much equipment to play.  Since children have to use these ParknPool playgrounds every day, they are often spread out and contain many different types of equipment to have fun on.  Most people like to use school ParknPool Preschool playgrounds as their most visited areas because of the security and amount of entertainment involved, but this can have downsides as well.  A lot of school playgrounds have the same or similar equipment as one another, so visiting one over another can often end up being the difference between the backdrops and location. 

Makeshift Setups
The last type consists of makeshift setups that are usually placed in parks or other public areas for use.  Most people do not visit these park areas today simply because of the news stories of adults abducting children in them so easily.  Fortunately most cities have safe areas that have good equipment, and even if it is aged somewhat, they usually do not skimp on cost initially.  Given that these are unattended areas, the quality of equipment has to remain high so it can withstand many years of use and abuse by the children and adults alike.

Eric Blair writes about playgrounds and other outdoor ParknPool commercial play equipment that parents can give their childrent access to.

3 Steps to a Tighter Tummy

Unless you have been living under a rock for the past decade, you have probably noticed the importance that society has placed on women looking their best. All forms of media – print, digital, film and television – are constantly driving this impression.  If you want to enhance your body image, tightening the stomach area is a great place to start.  Full disclosure is necessary before we begin; tightening your tummy is not going to be easy. It is one of the most challenging areas of the body to hone. But nonetheless, challenging is not tantamount to impossible. So let us get started.

1. Exercise on a regular basis.

Going on a diet and avoiding certain foods is necessary for weight loss.  But if you choose to tighten your tummy, you had better be prepared for a vigorous and regular exercise routine. In order to effectively tighten your tummy, you first need to remove the layer of fat that is covering the muscles underneath.

A good exercise to start with is a push-up. 

• Assume a prone position on the floor, keeping your feet together at the ankles
• Position your hands palms-down on the floor, approximately shoulder width apart
• Raise yourself using your arms
• Lower your torso to the ground until your elbows form a 90 degree angle
• Raise yourself by attempting to push the ground away from you
• Repeat the process (3 sets of 10 repetitions each)

Assuming the plank position is another great exercise.

• Assume a prone position on the floor
• Position your forearms on the floor with your shoulders aligned directly over your elbows
• Raise yourself up while keeping your forearms firmly on the floor, maintaining a straight line between your shoulders and toes
• Tighten your abdominal muscles and hold for ten seconds
• Repeat three times

You should also try an abdominal hip raise.

• Lay down on the floor with your head, back and buttocks planted firmly on the ground
• Bend your knees and plant your feet on the ground, relaxing your arms and hands at your side
• Use the muscles in your abdomen, lower back, and hamstrings (not your arms) to lift your hips and buttocks off the ground
• Raise your hips as high as you can
• Lower your body back to the ground
• Repeat the process (3 sets of 10 repetitions each)

 2. Reduce stress.

As if we needed another reminder about how detrimental a stressful lifestyle is, here is one more – high stress levels contribute to tummy fat. So no matter how determined you are to tighten your tummy, don’t stress yourself out in the process! Whether it’s taking a few minutes out of your busy days to soak in a lavender bubble bath, engaging in yoga, writing in your journal, or laughing with a loved one, try to keep your stress levels down.

3.       Choose the right foods.

Exercise is essential to tightening your tummy, but the tightening process is incomplete without a healthy diet.  If you are incapable of sticking to a super-restrictive weight loss diet plan, try these simple tips.   

Try to include one to two servings of vegetables at each meal.  Vegetables are nutritionally dense and low in calories.  Plus, they will make you feel full longer than junk food.  Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary beverages.  When possible, choose proteins over carbohydrates.  Consuming enough protein is essential if you want to tone and strengthen muscles. 

Follow these steps and soon you will be on the fast track to a tighter tummy!

After years of fighting her body into submission, Sarah Koebrick has finally achieved the killer body she has always craved.  Thanks to Trim Nutrition, her hCG injection diet, and lots of hard work, Sarah has managed to lose weight and keep it off.

5 Trail Running Myths Debunked

The following article will debunk some of the most common myths, or excuses, people often use to avoid getting into trail running:

1. Trail Running Is too Dangerous Because the Risk of Injury is Far too Great
As long as you take a few precautions, the risk of hurting yourself trail running is no greater than regular running. Instead of running your regular distance, you should instead only run for the regular amount of time that you normally run. Especially during your first few trail runs, make sure not to push your body too hard, so you can remain stable, balanced, and alert. Taking smaller steps will keep you better balanced and will reduce the risk of falling or spraining your ankle. The most important thing to remember when trail running is to always stay alert.

2. It Is too Dangerous Because I Might Get Lost
Though you certainly need to be more careful when trail running, taking a few simple precautions will eliminate the risk of getting lost. If you are unfamiliar with the trail or it is your first time trail running, you would be best advised to go with a friend or a group of friends, or at the very least bring a map with you. You should also make sure to bring your cellphone in case something goes wrong. Instead of running in a loop, you should run to a certain point and then turn around and go back in order to reduce the risk of getting lost. Make sure to take notice of what the trail looks like and look for landmarks. You should also mark the trail regularly for your way back.

3. Trails Are too Rough and Difficult to Run on
Too many people have the wrong idea in their head when they envision trail running. They picture a giant obstacle that is nearly impossible to overcome, but the trails are there for the purpose of being navigated. Most trails are flat, smooth, and easy to navigate. There will be a few obstacles, like deep slopes, streams, and rocks, but as long as you know what to do when you encounter these obstacles, they will seem more like a fun challenge than anything. When you come across a steep ascent, slow down right before and prepare for it. When you are running down a deep slope, make sure you keep your eyes ahead of you and your body in full control to avoid falling. The method of running through trails is really not as technical as it is common sense.

4. Running Trails Will Damage My Race Training Routine
Many race runners think that the difference between trail running and track running will mess up their routine. They liken trail running to train for a race to an NFL punter thinking bench pressing will make him a better kicker. However, this is not the case at all. In fact, trail running, which will develop the exact same muscles you need to run your race, will challenge both your mind in muscles in a way that will encourage development that would not otherwise be possible. By exposing your ligaments and your joints to the different ranges of motion that trail running requires, you will be strengthening them and also lessening the risk of injury in your future. Your mind will also be exposed to different challenges that will help it to persevere through any struggles on the track during a race.

5. I Do Not Have the Right Equipment for Trail Running
Too many people are under the impression that trail running is much more involving than it really is. You do not need to prepare for a three-day hike; you are just going for a run. The truth is you do not need to dress much differently than you would for a regular run. If you have a pair of sneakers and some shorts, you are ready for trail running. Items like bug spray, sun screen, and a water bottle will help make your life easier if running through the woods, but there is no vital equipment you need to go trail running that you do not already have as a runner. If you are unfamiliar with the trail, it would be wise to bring a map, and you should bring your phone with you just in case you get lost.

Are you interested in purchasing a life insurance policy to protect your loved ones in case of an unfortunate event? Go online today to Kanetix | Life Insurance Comparison to compare quotes offered by various insurance providers in Canada. With Kanetix's online service you can easily find out which insurance provider is best for you in just a matter of mintues.

Five New Sports to Try in 2012

With the Olympics returning to the UK this summer the country will be going sports mad. It may be too late for you to make it into the squad for this year’s Games, but you can always take inspiration from Britain’s Olympians and try out some new sporting pursuits. Trying a new sport is a great way to stay fit and doing something you haven’t done before keeps you motivated as well. Here are five new sports for you to try to follow in the spirit of the 2012 Games:

Archery
One of the less gruelling but most skillful sports that will be on show at this summer’s Games, it’s the sort of activity you can start off no matter what your fitness level or physical attributes. An ancient pursuit dating back 10,000 years, it has been an Olympic sport since 1900 and calls for a steady hand, perfect precision and nerves of steel. There are plenty of sites across the country to get a taster and challenge your friends to the highest score.

Windsurfing
Watersport experience days are a great chance to get wet and wild, trying out a new sport and having plenty of laughs at the same time. Windsurfing is one of the toughest to master but most fun to try. You don’t even need to live near the sea, with manmade and natural lakes at landlocked destinations across the British Isles offering the chance to enjoy a taste of this sport which combines elements of sailing and surfing for thrills and spills on the water.

Fencing
If you’ve dreamed of being a swashbuckling hero but never knew where to start, then trying out Olympic-style fencing will give you a good taste of life as a swordsman. Safe and fun, you can learn about all the elements of the sport and get an essential guide to help you make sense of it at this year’s Games, but the best part is when you don the outfit and mask and try it out for yourself.

Trampolining
It seems there’s barely a family garden in the UK these days that doesn’t have a trampoline, but trying it out on Olympic-sized adult trampolines is a different game altogether. Athletes will put on dazzling displays of gymnastic trampolining in London in August, a discipline which has only been an Olympic sport since 2000. But it’s not hard to see why it is growing in popularity, awe-inspiring to watch and great fun to try out – it’s probably as close a feeling as you’ll get to flying as you spring metres into the air.

Walking
There’s a fine line between walking being a sport and walking being, well...just walking. But it’s a sport that you really need nothing to try out and is still a great way to stay fit and see the world. You may not want to adopt the unusual waddle that Olympic race walkers employ as you’re sure to get some funny looks when you head down to the shops, but setting yourself challenging walks around the park or through picturesque beauty spots is a wonderfully refreshing and accessible activity.

Produced by Activity Superstore, the leading gift experience supplier in the UK. With over 1,000 Gift Ideas from supercar experiences to pamper days, you're sure to find the perfect gift.

Ten Amazing Benefits of Yoga

There is no one who can't benefit from yoga. What follows are ten benefits of practicing yoga and why you should give it a try!

1. Within the body, someone who regularly practices yoga will find it leads to a reduction in blood pressure. In people who have been diagnosed with hypertension, daily yoga has been shown to reduce, and in some cases eliminate, the need for medication.

2. The practice of yoga can amp up the speed of metabolism. With continual practice, hunger cues are reset and you can ward off the feeling of being ravenous. With hunger well-controlled, weight loss becomes more efficient, while the fact that your muscles are working on a daily basis contributes to their ability to burn fat and calories faster.

3. Yoga is an excellent form of stress management. Through breathing techniques and muscle control, total relaxation can be achieved by routine practice. The movements of yoga enable you to loosen your body and that, in turn, allows stress to exit the mind.

4. The development of core muscle strength is a benefit of yoga. The many poses enable the practitioner to become familiar with muscle groups in the body, while gaining better control over them. When you are aware of how your body works, you gain strength.

5. One benefit that doesn't get much attention is the power of yoga to diffuse anger. Yoga by its very nature encourages calmness. When you are in the midst of the controlled breathing of yoga, you realize these techniques work well, both in and out of a yoga class, to exhale anger out of your body. Staying calm is the antithesis of holding anger.

6. Practicing yoga regularly is a blessing for sufferers of chronic pain. Because yoga is a series of slow and purposeful movements, the low-impact nature of the practice makes it ideal for those with pain. Spinal compression is reduced and tensions ease. Some practitioners of yoga have reported the reduced need for pain medications due to the effect of yoga on their pain levels.

7. Those afflicted with obsessive compulsive disorder who have taken up the practice of yoga have reported a decreased need for medication to handle their symptoms. Some have even said they were able to stop taking medication completely.

8. Yoga gives a huge boost to your hand and eye coordination, dexterity and reaction time. All of those need regular use to stay most beneficial to you. Yoga gently exercises them so they are ready when you need them in everyday situations.

9. Attention, memory and concentration are all areas that are improved by practicing yoga. As little as 8 weeks of performing yoga can cause a marked increase in these skills.

10. There is promising evidence that suggests the practice of yoga can elevate the level of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain. Low GABA levels are found in patients with Alzheimer's. Meditation, such as with yoga, has shown promise in slowing Alzheimer's progress.

There are truly limitless benefits when someone takes up yoga. From mind and spirit, to body and brain, yoga benefits every part of the human body.

Dylan Johnson is a writer for Fusion Fitness and Yoga. The have personal training, boot camp and yoga classes for all. 

Booty Firm #Giveaway Event ~ June 25 ~ July 11

Sponsored by

Mom Blog Society and ProForm

Co-Sponsored by:

Insights By April More 4 Moms Buck

Mom Does Reviews Mommy Moments with Abby

Powered by Mom Mommy and Baby Reviews

Route249

And Hosted by 150 Amazing Bloggers

This giveaway will be open to the US

Giveaway will run from

6/25 12:01 est - 7/11 12:01 est

Dance your way to a new you! Three Dance Workout DVDs will help you slim down and reshape your booty! Featuring the hottest, fat-burning cardio dance moves and exclusive muscle-toning resistance exercises—the Booty Firm™ delivers body-shaping results!

150 Amazing bloggers have come together to bring you this amazing giveaway.

Sponsored by Mom Blog Society and ProForm

Co-Sponsored by:

Insights By April More 4 Moms Buck

Sarah's Blog of Fun Go Momma Coupons Woman of Many Roles This Frugal Family Small Town Saving Momma My Devotional Thoughts Semi Single Mom Natural Hair Latina Giveaway Gator Saving for My Family Mommie Again Keenly Kristin
Coupon Queen of Texas Wishful Thinking 24/7 One Mom's Moxie The Mommy Island Freebies with Attitude My Bloggity Blog Mom's Freebies Freebies Galore & Giveaways Too My Photopage Health Beauty Children & Family The Steady Hand Blog Love 2 Encourage You Party of 5 and Counting The Coupon Sweeper A Thrifit Diva Kathy's Savings Sister's Saving Cents Bethann's Helpving savings Two Couponing Friends Grammy 2 Kaiden Sleepless Gal Semmes Savers Elite Mama's Blog Oh My Goodies Freebies Snow Luvn Ferret Life in the Lost World Coupon for a Cause Mommy's Memorandum Tidbits From a Mom The Home Schooling Blog Newly Crunch Maman of 3 Money Savvy Michelle Julia Bits & Pieces The Christmas Fairy Uncreative Mommy Misadventures of a First Time Mom Freebies Deals and Steals Saving with 4 Children Devoted Mommy of 3 Mommy Couponswappers Bargains wit Barb Inside My Head with Kelli Penny Rubbers The Review & Giveaway Nook Wrap Your Way to Skinny Krazy Coupon Club Our Wolves Den The Ordinary Aunt Giveaways with Grace Jade Louse Designs So Cal Coupon Mommy Frugal Shopping With a Side of Thriftiness Simple Savings for Atlanta Moms Slick Housewives The Holly Herald Bargain Hound Bargains 4 WAHMS The Knitwit by Shair Samples Freebies Fun Whirlwind of Surprises TX Mommys Savings Jennie Yuen Just Jennifer Talking Christina Serrano Ind. Avon Rep Mama Writes LPO Beauty Pea of Sweetness Free is for Me Pink Ninja Blog Mom's Vacation Spots Jenn's Blah Blah Blog Register Cents All Things Abby Lynchburg Coupon Mama Mad Moose Mama BB Product Reviews Window on the World Jamerican Spice Savior Cents Ice Fairy Treasures Gabby Lynn Reviews & Giveaways Mizz Review Lady Night Helper Girl Loves a Bargain Mommy's Moment Parga's Junkyard Building Carpenters My Sweepstakes City Gustosa Giveaway Free Social Let's Start Saving Now Katie Rox 4 You My Charmed Mom Country Livin LaDonya Delos Cupones Momaye's Oregon Coupon Guide Esavings Blog Sweeping the USA Mary's Cup of Tea MS Stole my Brain Perfectly Imperfect Barbara's Beat What's Up My Couportiera Super Hot Chica in Training Blog by Donna So Easy Being Green Selen Brown Carolina Mom Blogger Couponing 2 Our Dreams Central Bargains & Giveaways Mommy Who Loves Giveaways Kimberley' s Thoughts Super Mommy to the Rescue Cranky Gurl's Corner The Glam Kitty Making it on a Budget The Daily Fashion & Beauty News From Fat Mama to Phat Mama Giveaway Monkey Living Off Coupons Melissa Say What MaeGal The Realist Couponer Wrap with Vera Mom Zuna Rockin Rebel Crazy Latina is Crazy 4 Coupons

a Rafflecopter giveaway

BOOK REVIEW: Summer Fit Series Grade 3 ~ 4

Summer Fit:  Exercises for the Brain and Body While Away from School

Author:  Kelly Terrill and Sarria James
Paperback:  125 pages
Publisher:  Monkey Feather Books; Worldbook Edition (April 2011)
Recommended ages:  Grades 3 ~ 4
Language:  English

Activities in reading, writing, math and language arts.

Daily exercises focus on aerobic, strength and sport to challenge the body~!!

Core Value activities highlight the lives of inspirational leaders including Harriet Tubman, Mother Teresa and Ghandi to build social and life skills~!!

Sign up for the MLS W.O.R.K.S. Active Bodies Active Minds program at summerfitlearning.com or MLSsoccer.com/abam and be eligible to win autographed merchandise from Major League Soccuer clubs and players~!!

Children can lose up to 2.5 months of classroom skills during the summer vacation while at the same time becoming less physically active without school and classroom routines.

Available for Preschool to Grade 5.  Based on National Standards and teacher recommended.

Get Your School Moving with a Purpose ~ jdrf.org/kidswalk

I absolutely LOVE these series of books.  I had the privilege of reviewing the Summer Fit Grades 1~2 last year and was very happy to be on board for this tour also.  

My youngest daughter LOVES to participate and excel with exercise type books.  She was very excited when this arrived and remembered from last year when she helped me review the Summer Fit Grades 1~2 book.  

Each exercise program is broken down by weeks, highlighting each day during the week and exercises for that day to help keep your child's brain stimulated.  You will get a preview page explaining what is coming up for the week and what you will be focusing upon.  

Then you have to write down three things each week to show your value.  From there you will have a brain exercise and a physical exercise.  Each exercise page gives one a choice of three activities to participate with from easy to hard.    Then back to the brain as one focus' on math questions.  Simple and easy and gives your child just enough stimulation to keep the brain's muscle working correctly.

Also dispersed throughout the pages are memorable and inspirational quotes from many people of all walks of life.  Terry Fox, Rosa Parks, and Lewis & Clark are but a few of the people who share their thoughts.  Plus you learn groovy things about surfing, the world and so much more~!!

The whole process wouldn't take any more than half an hour a day and your child truly doesn't feel like they are doing school work.  The activities are fun, educational and inspirational too~!!

**  Reviewed by me...as I see it~!!  **

Do You Need Bicycle Insurance?

Cyclists face bicycle liability issues. Therefore, they are finding that insurance is a wise protection to have. Bicycle insurance will cover a variety of occurrences such as when the cyclist is the cause of an accident or damage to another user of the road.

Basic Insurance Coverage
Third party claims can be expensive, but cyclists can feel confident on the road when they have bicycle insurance. With a basic plan, riders can safeguard as many as three bikes for coverage up to $15,000. Cyclists may also buy insurance to cover their specific needs. For example, riders who often compete overseas may add protection for foreign locations. Another optional coverage is public liability, which will protect other road users.

Personal Cycling Insurance
Riders may choose to protect their bike along with personal injuries. Cyclists will have coverage against theft, damage and third party accidents. Most insurance plans will allow riders to select the exact coverage they’ll use without paying for protection they won’t need. For example, if a cyclist’s home insurance covers bicycle theft that happens on the property, then they may opt for third party protection along with personal injury coverage and cancel theft protection.

Coverage for Athletes
Cyclists who participate in events such as triathlons, ironman competitions and cycling races should consider specialized protection. Often, a security requirement during a race is that competitors must lock their bicycle while competing. However, some events will allow insured racers to forego this requirement. Thus, a time penalty is avoided during the race.
Additional benefits for athletes to become covered include the ability to pay for bicycle insurance monthly and an opportunity to renew coverage and make changes online.

Additional Bicycle Protection and Benefits
With bicycle coverage, riders can choose to add roadside recovery. This service will rescue riders during a cycling accident or when a bicycle is vandalised and requires repair. An incident such as this may cause the cyclist to become stranded. Roadside recovery will pick the rider up and take him or her along with their bicycle to a repair shop, car rental agency, residence or railway station along with a requested overnight lodging locale.

In most cases, the incident will need to be more than a mile away from the cyclist’s personal residence to qualify for service.

Depending on the bicycle insurance company, cyclists may receive added benefits such as a loyalty bonus for renewed membership. Also, cyclists may cover up to three additional bikes as long as the primary insured party uses them. Riders may choose to protect other family members such as their spouse and children.

Prior Claims
With car insurance policies, the insured will often have concerns that the cost of the policy will increase after a ticket or an accident. This is typically not the case with bicycle insurance. However, cyclists must advise their insurance company when incidents occur as coverage may become invalidated due to a non-reported accident.

Bicycle insurance is a safeguard for cyclists. Furthermore, it will provide peace of mind and allow riders to enjoy their preferred form of transportation, leisure activity or competition.

Ryan is the owner of a chain of Adelaide bike shops. He recommends all of his customers take out some form of bike insurance just as a precaution. Ryan plans to expand his business throughout Australia in the next few years.

Glide Into Family Fun With Zip Lining Adventure Tours

Whether you're a seasoned thrill seeker or simply looking for a little bit of excitement, zip lining is an activity that is sure to get your blood pumping. There are numerous zip lining companies throughout the country, each with their own unique characteristics. Many places feature courses that allow the participants to slowly enjoy the surrounding beauty at a gentle pace, while others provide faster lines, which offer special challenges that are ideal for the adrenaline junkie. Whether you're looking to take it fast or slow, there are so many options available that you are certain to find a company that fits your needs.

Stand Tall & Fly High at Redwood Zip Line Canopy Tours at Mount Hermon, California
The Redwood Canopy Tours, which is located about seven miles outside of Santa Cruz, California, is a true nature lover's paradise. As the company name implies, a dense layer of stunning coastal redwood trees surrounds this extensive zip line course. Additionally, this beautifully designed tour will offer you a view of other flora, such as live oaks, bay laurel, and Douglas fir trees. The course itself is just as exciting as the surroundings and consists of a two hour guided tour through two sky bridges and six zip lines that reach heights of 150 feet. 

Bask in Nature’s Beauty With Cypress Valley Canopy Tours in Austin, Texas
There's no denying it: most of us have dreamed of rapidly gliding through the air, seeing the beautiful, nearly untouched earth below, as warmth beats down on us from a sun that suddenly seems just a little bit closer than before. If this is a long-held fantasy of yours, you may be in luck. Cypress Valley Canopy Tours provides exhilarating zip lining tours that cater to everyone in the family, from the adventure seeker to the nature lover. Located just east of great camping by Inks Lake, this earth-friendly company provides tours through a stunning creek ravine that's surrounded by majestic cypress trees. 

This company offers two options: the canopy tour, and the canopy challenge. The canopy tour offers six fantastic zip lines and three sky bridges. After completing the tour, those feeling extra adventurous can complete the canopy challenge, which consists of multiple events, and longer sky bridges and zip lines.

Good Times for All at Durango, Colorado’s Soaring Tree Top Adventures Canopy Tour
Have you always wanted to try zip lining, but could never convince your friends or family to join in? Taking part in the Soaring Tree Top Adventures Canopy Tour may be a solution to this problem, as this company offers extraordinary zip lining options, as well as some less heart pounding alternatives, like gentle walks through the majestic forest and alongside the river, friendly lunches with the zip lining group, and a fun ride in Soaring's First Class train. For those seeking more excitement, this company boasts the largest zip line tour in the world. This tour lasts for about five and half hours, and takes you through 34 platforms, and more than 27 spans that start from 56 and end at about 1,400 feet.

Whether you're looking to view the vast expanse of nature from a new vantage point or just want to feel the adrenaline rush of gliding through the air, challenge yourself by experiencing a memorable zip lining experience. This is truly an adventure that can be enjoyed with family and friends, and with so many options throughout the country, there's simply no reason not to give it a try.

Once upon a time, before mommyhood, Lynn Mastic took many adventerous trips that included things like zip lining and hiking Machu Picchu.  For now, she lives vicariously through others and promotes the Highland Lakes lodging for other adventure seeking travelers while working from home as her 7 month old climbs her pant legs. 

Knowing Your Body

One of the more frustrating aspects for people new to working out has to do with learning all about their body. People who have been training for years have developed a good sense for how hard they can train, expected recovery times, and have even developed a heighten mind to muscle connection. It is like they become a more advanced model of a car with a better diagnostic system that keeps them more in-tune and running more efficiently.

What does being "In-Tune" Mean?

• During an exercise you can feel the muscle contracting and stretching through the range of motion. Earlier in my fitness journey I would do lat pull-downs, for example, and the focus was on just pulling the weight down. But now when I do them I feel the stretch of the back muscles I am working and work more efficiently as I contract them harder during each repetition. This focus allows me to more easily target the proper muscles.
• Stretching is more effective. By now I know which stretches affect me the best and how to position my body to get the most out of a specific stretch.
• Learning which exercises are most effective based on your body make-up. For working my lower chest I prefer dips over any sort of decline bench press. The motion feels more natural to my structure and I am able to work the muscle more thoroughly.
• Knowing when you can push yourself harder and have more to give. After you have found the wall and passed a few times you learn where your limits truly are. While you don't have to push past them all the time, every once in awhile makes a big difference.
• You learn when your body needs extra rest. Some people hit the gym even when their body gives them various signs that it is tired and needs a break. When you are in-tune then you learn to heed the warnings, go to bed earlier, and come back rejuvenated the next day.
• You can also be more aware of the early signs of not enough food or water without needing to do the math. The energy level and hydration level in your body are important. Subtle cues are given when your body isn't in balance and learning to hear those cues really helps keep your energy levels consistent.

How Do You Get In-Tune
It takes time, focus, and practice.
 
When you are at the gym all of your focus needs to be on the exercise you are performing. The goal is to form a better link between your mind and your muscles as they stretch and contract. The best way to do this is by slowing down during each repetition. You need to feel the muscle work. The same goes for stretching. It is a slow process where you even move and adjust positions slowly to try and feel what is most effective.

Over time, as you repeat the process, your brain will create stronger pathways between your nervous system and muscles which help attune you to your body.

The same thing happens as you adjust your eating habits and get your body used to regular small meals and fluid intake. It becomes almost automated that you can feel when you have slightly less energy and realize that it is time to eat again without looking at a clock or when your mouth becomes a little dryer than before and you know that another cup of water is due. Or even when you feel a mood shift and your mental checklist says you have enough food and water so that only leaves fatigue as a factor to be corrected.

The mind and body link is very powerful. After taking the time to establish it, you will find that you are more efficient with your workouts because you are better equipped to give your body what it needs to achieve. Start working on your connection today and it will payoff for a lifetime.

Ben Sanderson is an author for Nutribomb Bodybuilding Supplements where Ben is dedicated to providing our users with the best supplement and training information on the internet.

The Strange World Of Zombie Walks

The rise of the internet and social networking has helped encourage the spread of some pretty weird and wonderful activities, but perhaps none as eccentric as ‘Zombie Walks’. For those of you that haven’t heard of this phenomenon, it basically refers to any organized event where zombie fanatics meet up dressed as the undead, and then proceed to go on a walk through a pre-determined route. Most of the walks take place in busy metropolitan centres. The zombie walkers pay a lot of attention to the quality and authenticity of their zombie outfits, and go to great lengths to perfect their zombie walking style and zombie moaning. As you can imagine, the sight of 80 to 100 zombies walking through your town centre is enough to strike the fear of god into most people, and the activity has created quite a lot of controversy as a result!

So how did this strange phenomenon come about in the first place? Well, the very first zombie walk was held back in 2001 in Sacramento, in the United States. It was organised by Bryna Lovig and it held the official title of ‘The Zombie Parade’. The event was so successful that it quickly became an annual event in the city. This first walk was actually commercial in nature- the idea was to promote a specific film festival in the area, but the idea was soon taken up by non-commercial organisations as well. As time has passed the zombie walks have become more and more sophisticated. Some of the walkers even ‘re-enact’ scenes from classic zombie films! In such cases people will be designated the task of acting ‘the victim’- they will wear easily ‘tear-able’ human clothes, and upon a specific signal these poor victims will be ‘attacked’ by the mob of zombies. Of course, this is all staged, but must be one hell of a sight nonetheless!

In recent years the phenomenon has gained even greater popularity (some would say notoriety) to the extent that most big international cities have now played host to such events. There’s no doubt that popular social networking sites, such as Twitter and Facebook, have helped to spread the word. The current world record for the biggest zombie walk stands at 9,806 participants, a record that was set in November 2011 in Mexico, but even now there are plans for a Zombie Walk with over 20,000 participants!

Although the exact motivation behind this activity can only be guessed at, one thing is for sure. This is one phenomenon that’s here to stay! Let’s just hope that the zombies don’t take over the entire planet!

About Matt

Matt runs a site that is dedicated to finding the very best zombie costumes and accessories out there. You’ll also find one or two zombie related articles there as well! You can find the site at:

http://www.scaryzombiecostumes.co.uk

OPPORTUNITY: LeftLane Sports up to 70% OFF

LeftLane Sports is an exclusive, members-only shopping community featuring the world's leading Outdoor, Fitness, and Action Sports brands at up to 70% OFF retail price. 

Their Prices are guaranteed lowest, and their products are guaranteed premium quality.


Click on the banner above to learn more~!!

2012 Mountain Bike World Championships Guide

When mountain bicycles made the bicycle showrooms nearly three decades ago, no one could have foreseen the popularity and incredible evolution the sport has enjoyed. Mountain biking, like its road cycling cousin, has a world championship. There are several categories for the mountain bike championships, and the 2012 competition has all of them, being presented in the Saalfelden-Leogang region of Austria.

There are two main categories for the world championships: cross country and gravity. Gravity cycling is comprised of the downhill and slalom style racing, while the cross country races are long and short course.

Gravity

For 2012, the UCI - Universal Cycling International - is removing the four-cross downhill race. This is a race that sees four racers line up and head down the course in cut-throat fashion. The UCI decided to remove this and focus more on the downhill courses. Also, the cost of designing a four-cross race course was deemed too much, forcing the UCI to remove it and make the downhill event the premier of the championships. There will be four days of double-elmination downhill races in Leogang starting on August 31.

Cross Country

The UCI has decided to keep both the standard cross country events and add the eliminator races for 2012. Eliminator races have cross country racers in criterium fashion. Criterium racing is done on an enclosed short track with breakneck speeds and tight turns. Expect to see mud fly in this event. The 2012 World Championships are the first of the competitive series to see eliminator races as a cup qualifier.

The cross country races are to be held in the Saalfelden, and take place over three days, with cumulative times being used for the final podium criteria, similar to a grand tour in road cycling.

Spectators

Spectators are encouraged to attend the World Championships. Admission gets patrons into the race grounds as well as the show tents, athlete village and bicycle showcase. This is a great place to see world class cycling. Many of the athletes racing at the worlds will be coming off Olympic performances, with the 2012 Summer Olympics taking place in London.

The lead up to the worlds takes place over two weeks, with smaller races, eliminations and showcases taking place during this tie. This is due to the increasing popularity of mountain bicycling. When the mountain bike worlds began several years ago, they took place over two days, and were thought more of as kitsch than serious events. Today, with mountain biking as a premier sport, the worlds are one of the biggest events on the mountain biking calendar.

Take advantage of the Mountain Biking World Championship length this year, and head across the Atlantic to Austria to see world class athletes keeping the knobby tires in the mud.

Josh is a lover of all things mountain bikes and will be participating at this year's world championships. He rides every day, not only for the enjoyment, but the fitness that comes with it.

Disney XD's Extreme Sports Wear Giveaway~!!

To enter this contest, go to www.disneyxd.ca and click on the Disney Drop-In Icon to access the contest~!!  NO purchase necessary!!    

Fill out the entry form, one entry per person and it runs from December 20, 2011 to May 31, 2012.  Bonus entries are available.

Open to Canadians excluding Quebec, 13 years of age or older.  Those younger require parental permission to enter. 

OPPORTUNITY: 24 Hour Fitness - FREE 7 day pass

Sign up Today~!!

Meditation Techniques Made Easy

People try out various things to get rid of stress and tension but have seldom succeeded. Through meditation it is possible to calm your mind and relax your body and soul as this is one of the most effective spiritual exercises. You have so many reasons for stress and anxiety in your everyday life and meditation is the best way to reduce them. There are many meditation techniques to practice so that your mind replaces the negative thoughts with positive ones. For stress and anxiety meditation is known to be one of the most powerful tools. The practitioners should focus on the activity while meditating to relax the mind.

Make sure when you are practicing meditation not to let anything distract your mind and you will feel relaxed. If you are focusing on the meditation carefully then your muscles get trained and this in turn will make your body free from stress. Meditation not only makes a person relaxed but also makes the mind strong. Many people have tried the guided meditation and have found it to be a practical blessing from God. Meditation has transformed the life of many and you can be one of them if you try it out. Your mind becomes calm because the ultimate peace that your mind is looking for is achieved through meditation.

When both body and mind calms down then the nervous system of our body starts functioning optimally and this can only be possible through meditation. A person who does meditation regularly will become so strong that he or she will automatically get the capability to solve the difficult problems in life. Bringing back the consciousness of a person is the main aim of meditation techniques. There are some basic steps that every individual should follow in meditation –

If you are trying to do the sitting meditation then it is important that you first choose a comfortable and right position. You can choose a sitting position may be with your legs crossed or you can sit on a chair. Whatever may be your sitting position, you must be relaxed with your back straight.

• Keep your palms up by resting your hand on your lap. This will keep your body relaxed.
• You must focus on a point and stare at a distance by relaxing your gaze and closing your eyes partially.
• In order to direct your attention you need to choose the focal point. You need to focus on your breathing. Instead of the bad thoughts in your mind you can try to visualize good images and pictures or listen to soothing music.
• Once you start meditating you start breathing by making your body relaxed.
• Never try to push off the thoughts from your mind before you feel relaxed.

Through the meditation techniques you can be sure that your tensions and worries will melt away leaving you with a clear, calm and relaxed mind. Meditation today has become easier than before. It is not difficult finding the right technique that will offer great benefits.

Learn more how to use daily affirmations and secrets of guided meditation 

Learn How to Open Your Third Eye with Chakra Meditation Techniques

Chakra meditation techniques are form of meditation which makes use of chakras. These techniques borrow many concepts of yoga like kundalini.  There are seven chakras in the kundalini system. Kundalini is the energy field that travels through the path consisting of seven chakras in the body system. Third eye which is thought to be located at the center of our forehead is sixth chakra of the seven chakras and is therefore second last path of kundalini. 

Third eye unlike real eyes is virtual eye. Scientifically it is thought to be connected to the pineal gland in the middle of brain. It is also called as ‘Agya’ chakra. Through third eye meditation, you tend to stimulate and feel virtual presence of third eye. This type of meditation is also called ‘Trataka’. It is the technique which allows one to move on more spiritual plane.

Third eye meditation is guided meditation and requires learning. This technique teaches us to open our third eye by moving into the meditative state. A brief description of technique is given below.

• Sit with your legs crossed and spine straight.
• Close your eyes.
• Breathe in and out slowly for 2-3 times.
• Try to concentrate on to the forehead area by looking upwards with eyes closed and then try to look at the center of the forehead.
• Bring all your attention to the center of forehead and then try to relax your eyes. After concentrating for some time, your thoughts become still. You are able to see inner you.
• You experience spiritual and virtual presence of third eye which appears to be open and is watching inner side of yourself. This is the point where you have entered the meditative state. It enables you to focus on positive things that make you feel good.
• Continue observing for 15-20 minutes.
• Then slowly with your eyes closed stop looking at the third eye. After few minutes of waiting open both eyes completing your meditation.

The experience of third eye meditation is difficult to explain. Opening of third eye to observe inner state of us is a spiritual experience. Everyone feels it differently. It is not easy to describe in words. This is good exercise of our eyes. Our eyes work constantly when open and hence are very strained. This meditation helps to keep them healthy. These meditation techniques help to develop our intuitive power and psychic abilities.

There is some caution one needs to know when learning trataka technique. While you are practicing third eye meditation, you might feel heat at the third eye location. This is believed to happen because of energy field travelling through chakras. This heat, though not harmful may make you feel uncomfortable to meditate. It can also cause some itching at forehead. It is advised to stop meditation in such a case.

Of all the meditation techniques, this is one that is difficult to practice. We must concentrate only on silencing the thought process and enjoy spiritually. This will allow us to see the world beyond through our third eye.

Learn more about the third eye chakra and guided meditation techniques

Fitness Boot Camp: An Outdoor Fitness Camp

Confidence and body fitness, these are just a few things developed in fitness boot camps. If you are getting bored with the habitual activities that found in gyms, the best way to at least create a different atmosphere would be by joining fitness boot camps. Most commonly these camps are more adventurous than your typical gym experience. Aside from this, it is usually experience with groups of people who enjoy the outdoors. Like other fitness camps, there are different programs followed by this camp but of course there are always the requisite activities such as the orientation, the warm up, the exercises and the cool down. Adventure and fun is awaiting you upon joining these camps. 

Adventure-filled Work Out: All Packed Here in a Fitness Boot Camp 

Experience fun and adventure while maintaining the fit body you have always dreamed to have. A fitness boot camp is the best way to enjoy outdoor activities. Staying in the gym and following habitual activities can sometimes get boring. Fitness boot camps allows you to enjoy the fun of the outdoors, enjoy nature while enjoying the adventures that leads you to make your body more fit and attain the weight and body figure you sought for. Aside from the fitness boot camps that maintain the healthy you, Weight loss boot camps are also available to make people attain the weight they always wanted. Well of course aside from the weight, you can also attain your most wanted body figure that you would like, all with the help of an active lifestyle and activities that fitness boot camps and weight loss boot camps suggest.

Fitness Boot Camp: Why or Why Not?

Of all the methods that can help attain the fit and healthy you why would you choose fitness boot camp? The following are just a few positives and negatives often attributed to these kinds of camps.

Starting with the positives, fitness camps are fun, exciting and are great for adventure-seekers. Done in the outdoors, the kinds of activities will surely be a big break from the habitual gym activities. At the same time, these camps do not only improve your heath and shape, it also improves your socializing skills. Most of the activities in boot camps and weight loss boot camps require you to work with groups. With this, you are given more opportunity to enjoy the company of your fellow camp mates. At the same time, these activities also tend to increase one's confidence and mental health. Technically these camps have a holistic approach when it comes to promoting the healthy and fit body, both inside and out.

On the other hand, there are also a few negatives associated with boot camps. First of all, fitness boot camps are scheduled camps, these camps cannot be done any day you wish. Hence, you do not have control of your time unlike gym workouts. Also there are some people who prefer working out alone. These fitness boot camps usually require socialization and group interaction, which for some is not how they intend to meet their health and fitness goals.

Whatever may be your reason for joining a fitness boot camp and or a weight loss boot camp, the best thing is that these kinds of camps will surely help you form the inner discipline and mindset when it comes to meeting fitness and health goals. It will always be your choice. Whatever fitness method you choose, it will be always be worth your time and effort.

FitFarms is a fit camp based in the United Kingdom and the Middle East. FitFarms is chosen as The Nations No.1 Fitness Retreat By The Observer in the UK.

Stop Cold Turkey: Over-Exercise and Crash Diets

Over-exercise and crash diets are the two ways that most people think are helpful to help them slim down their body. A fat belly is not the desire of men and women ever since. Having sexy abs and wonderful thighs are a few things that make many of us so eager to exercise and limit our food intake. But do you think these are good enough to reach the size your waistline? Some people think that these are helpful but according to the experts and studies, over-exercise and crash diets have bad results. Let’s find out how why.

Because of the extreme desire of people to keep their body in shape, they tend to exercise more and more. Even it takes long hours of warm up in a day, people will mostly like do it for the sake of their weight loss pattern. But what they don’t realize about this over-exercise is that it can stimulate more the hunger of a person wherein they will likely eat more calories to satisfy their taste. Working out more than 2 hours a day is already an over-exercise.

People that usually do this suffer from psychological hunger. After an excessive exercise, you like to reward yourself with high calorie foods. So what do you think is the result of this over-exercise? Gain of weight, right? So, to combat this, you need to consider your meals effectively. Eat light snacks and don’t miss or skip your meals especially your breakfast.

Speaking of your meals, it is important that you have the best meal plan set for you. Crash diet is good but it can also be unhealthy to do. Why? As its other word suggests, starvation diet, it can really make you starve and make you feel like eating more after the few weeks of your diet. An excessive drop of calorie you intake compare to your usual calorie consumption can’t be prolonged for more longer weeks of diet. Many people do this, but unfortunately, they never succeed because they feel eating more. In this type of diet, you need patience and endure just to continue it.

Crash diets will more likely fail you, therefore, stop cold turkey and shift to low-calorie diet meals. But of course, this low-calorie diet needs the supervision of your weight-loss professional instructor. When you are on a diet, you still need to be sure that you still have the consumption of the needed nutrients in your body. If not, you will still have an ineffective weight-loss management. If you want lasting results of your weight-loss pattern, ask help from a professional, follow the advice and reap the rewards after.

Sharmanlow, a writer and spa enthusiast, have wonderful hot tubs in her home. She gives herself the most desired time to rejuvenate and feel the comfort of life though her Jacuzzi spas.