Blog Posts in Category: Fitness
The physical benefits of exercise are commonly known, such as weight control, cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance. However, studies show that although exercise is a physical activity, it has an effect on our mental state as well. A study conducted at the University of Haifa International School found that exercise reduces depression and burnout rates. The study analyzed 1,632 Israeli workers through questionnaires and follow up appointments over the course of nine years. The... Read More
The World Health Organization defines health as “physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. Too often, this holistic view is forgotten. The interdependence of all aspects of health is important when creating wellness programs. Manadnock Family Services, a non-profit, comprehensive, community mental health service in Peterborough, NH, recognizes the important connection between physical and mental health through their In SHAPE program. Launched... Read More
While running, we repetitively hit our feet against the pavement, one in front of the other. Lots of times, our brain runs as well, thinking about your current to do list, a conversation earlier in the day, how you’re breathing, what music is playing, but do you ever stop to think about just how your moving your feet? It is almost like breathing, you don’t think about each breath in and out, it just happens, but a recent study from Harvard University is saying we should be making a conscious... Read More
During the past few years, there has been some controversy regarding the benefits we gain from stretching before and after exercise. Luckily, Laura Schwecher, a writer for the Huffington Post uses her findings from scientific based evidence to bust some of the famous myths that surround gyms and other fitness centers around the nation. So, the jury is out and if you’re anything like myself, prepare to be shocked by some of these new findings. Firstly, stretching doesn’t prevent injury nor does... Read More
Let’s face it: a great pair of high heels is stylish and they really do complete an outfit. However, the reality is that the foot was not designed to be in permanent arched position while walking. The effect that high heels have on the body was examined in a study done by researchers at Griffith University in Queensland, Australia. Nine women were selected who had worn high heels for at least 40 hours a week for at least 2 years, as well as a control group of 10 women who rarely wore heels... Read More
Did you make a New Year’s Resolution to work out more and lead a healthier life? Are you bored of doing the same old workout everyday? Well luckily, the UNH Outdoor Adventure Club can help! On February 14th, they will be hosting a Moonlight Cross Country Ski event across Medums Pond. It only costs five dollars and it includes transportation and ski gear. The event is from 6pm-9:30pm and you must sign up by February 13th at the front desk of the recreation center. The Outdoor Adventure Club... Read More
Crunches, sit ups, planks; just some of the many abdominal exercises we do daily in an effort to achieve the coveted “six pack”. According to an article in the New York Times, researchers at Indiana State University are questioning if the crunches are really worth it. It was previously thought that a stronger core will improve your overall physical performance, but after conducting a fitness test, results showed no correlation “between robust core muscles and athleticism”. This finding was... Read More
In a recent post by Katrina Heisler, she discussed the different apps that are compatible with iPhones to help us stay motivated to hit the gym and how as little as text messaging could contribute to weight loss. Well another app to add to the list is "Nexercise". Nexercise is a free app available to all iPhone owners that tracks different physical activities and rewards users with free and discounted merchandise. These physical activities range from weight training and running to fencing and... Read More
Are you tired of doing the same mundane things to stay in shape? Are running, cycling and hitting the weight room becoming a little less exciting every time you do them? If that is the case then you’re in luck! While many students have utilized ALL that the Whittemore Center has to offer, but many surprisingly have not. The fact is that the Whitt has SO much more than simply Racquetball courts, Basketball courts, an indoor track and a weight room. The Whitt offers a whole variety of fitness... Read More
Trying to lose weight or find the motivation to get to the gym? There’s an app for that. Gone are the days of technology holding back the couch potatoes, technology has now made it easy enough to have a personal trainer in the palm of your hand. There are hundreds on weight loss apps on the market for your smart phone that can help you track how much you’re eating, how many calories you burned on your run, fitness tips, and even personalized workout plans. Who needs a trainer or even a gym when... Read More