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Weightlifting & Exercise/which machine
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Question
Karen
A new civic fitness facility with a pool has opened in my neighourhood so on my days off I plan to walk over, work out and have a swim.
I have some issues that I would like to address so was wondering what machines, or drop in classes would suit me best?
I need to reduce my waist. I am dieting for that and walking more, but since I am a bus driver and have to sit for long periods and cant get up I am worried about back problems which is the number one occupational hazard.Is there a machine, other than weights or universal gym (which dont interest me) that would be best?
Also of all the classes they have from step to yoga, etc. which would keep my back strong and flexible?
Thanks!
Hi Bud, congratulations on your effort to become more healthy. Swimming is a great exercise since it involves no impact. Yoga and pilates classes would be great. Anything to do with stretching would work. Planks and all forms of bridges will be the absolute best thing you can do for your back and they do not involve equipment.
As far as classes go, you have to find something you enjoy. As far as machines and weights go, seems like you do not enjoy that area of the gym very much, that's OK find something you like bikes, treadmill, swimming or classes and stick with those things. If you hate it you won't go.
To give you a little help with your bridges you can check out a series of posts I did called the Bridge Progression Series. If you stick with it and work through those (and do your planks) your back will get stronger. One more thing I would stay away from ab type classes for now if you are worried about your back, wait till you are stronger.
http://www.secretstolivingahealthylifestyle.com/blog/category/video-series/page/... Start with the Cook Hip Lift and go from there, they are filed under the video series.
Stay Motivated,
Karen
http://www.secretstolivingahealthylifestyle.com/blog/
http://www.lifetime-fitness-routines.com/index.html
http://www.completely-fit.com
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Answers by Expert:
Karen Skidmore
Expertise
I can answer questions in the following areas: general fitness questions, strength training, flexibility, aerobic training, balance training and corrective/rehab training. Please no questions regarding specific injuries I would need more information then what you can provide in an email to answer these questions accurately. You must be 18 years or older to ask me a question. If you need more in depth help or would like help with your specific workout plans please visit my website. I offer online training and phone consultations. www.completely-fit.com. I also offer a monthly newsletter.
Experience
I am the owner of the Completely Fit personal training company located in Mt. Airy, Maryland. My company offers one-on-one, online and group fitness training services, sports performance and team training, weight education classes and healthy lifestyle seminars. Before starting my own company I taught health and physical education for 10 years. I have been the featured speaker on topics such as fitness and exercise, proper nutrition and health awareness.
I graduated from Edinboro University with a degree in education specializing in athletic training. I gained my NATA certification in 1994. I also maintain certifications as a personal trainer with NCSF & NSPA, as a performance enhancement specialist with NASM, as well as an exercise development specialist and a nutrition specialist.
Calling on my experience with college athletes and teaching middle school students, I decided to use my knowledge to educate the general public on the benefits of physical fitness and healthy eating habits.
I enjoy working with people and helping them achieve each and every one of their goals. Completely Fit offers services to everyone, from beginners to professional athletes.
Organizations
NATA
NASM
NCSF
Lifestyle Management Assoc.
Education/Credentials
certified athletic trainer
performance enhancement specialist
certified personal trainer
nutrition specialist
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