December 3, 2007

DID YOU KNOW that the training possibilities of resistance bands are endless? They allow you to move more freely and achieve a greater range of motion (as opposed to a machine which controls where you start and stop). This allows you to create resistance from all directions—the side, overhead, below, etc. You can also adjust your angle of movement (by moving the fixed point higher or lower), and combine several exercises seamlessly. Bands also allow you to mimic movements that you do in real life. Resistance bands also differ in their degree of difficulty (signaled by various colors). The most stretchable bands have lighter resistance than the harder-to-stretch ones that offer heavier resistance. This, along with body position, allows you to customize the level of resistance to fit your strength level. You control the tension by shortening or lengthening the band as you perform the exercise.

DID YOU ALSO KNOW that many people unconsciously hold their breath while stretching. This causes tension in your muscles, which in turn makes it very difficult to stretch. To avoid this, remember to breathe slowly and easily during your stretching. This promotes blood flow and increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. Breathing slowly and easily also helps to relax your muscles, which makes stretching easier and more beneficial. This will ensure that your stretching is safe, and that you gain the greatest possible benefits.

AND the skeleton isn't a rigid and unchanging structure. Each year, our bodies replace about 20% of our bones' spongy tissue, which means that our activities at every age influence bone health. Sections of old bone break down, creating gaps to be filled by new bone. Until about age 30, we build bone very efficiently. Making the right health choices, during and after those years, such as exercise and eating right to get enough calcium in the diet, helps your skeleton reach its genetically determined peak strength. Don't wait for someone, like your doctor, to tell you what you MUST do.

For comments, questions or suggestions . . . please email Allen