How to do Box Jumps

female athlete performing box jumps

Box jumps are a great exercise for your legs, and can be performed on just about any variable flat surface. They hit your posterior chain – calves, quads, glutes, and hamstrings – pretty hard.

Box jumps can be used for cardio workouts, neural activation training (NAT), high-intensity resistance training (HIRT), and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) circuits. They are often used in CrossFit WODs (Workout of the Day) and are a staple exercise in plyometric training. Plyometrics have a wide range of athletic and real sporting applications; they are used, for example, to increase jumping ability, leg strength, hip drive, and explosiveness.

Box jumps are a simple movement. They require you only to jump from one flat surface up onto another flat surface, then either step or jump back down, depending on the purpose of the exercise. These are our tips for performing them safely and effectively.

Read the rest of this entry »

6 Best Home Leg Exercises for Strength and Mass

Posted October 1, 2024 in Best Exercises No Comments »
hit every leg muscle with these home leg exercises

Generally speaking, while working out the primary concern of bodybuilding is to develop a toned upper body, to the extent that aspiring bodybuilders sometimes forget to pay much attention to their legs. And if they do train legs, it is pretty much the bare minimum and a half-willed effort – leg press and leg curls, for example. Sometimes we need to consider home leg exercises to get some extra reps outside of a gym.

Many beginners focus so much on a toned set of abs or bowling ball shoulders, that they skip out on leg day and forget to include their squats and deads throughout the week. This greatly affects the symmetry of the body. So to obtain that perfect physique you dream about, you will need to include leg workouts too.

For today we will focus mainly on home leg exercises and primarily use only body weight. 

Read the rest of this entry »

5 Tips To Deal With Plantar Fasciitis

Posted September 27, 2024 in Injuries, Recovery No Comments »
female athlete with plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes, becomes inflamed. This condition can be debilitating, but the good news is that there are ways to manage and alleviate the discomfort.

Here are five tips to help you deal with plantar fasciitis and get back on your feet.

Read the rest of this entry »

10 Tips to Choose the Right Health Insurance

Posted September 25, 2024 in Health, Legal, Medical No Comments »
choosing the right health insurance

Choosing the right health insurance can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options, policies, and confusing terms. It’s easy to feel lost in a sea of choices, wondering which plan is best for you and your family. But don’t worry—our list of 10 practical tips will guide you through the decision-making process and help you make an informed choice with confidence. Whether you’re new to health insurance or just looking for better coverage, these tips will point you in the right direction.

This guide will walk you through ten essential tips to help you make an informed decision when selecting health insurance, ensuring you get the best coverage without unnecessary expenses.

Read the rest of this entry »

How Diet Trends Affect Oral Health: Veganism, Keto, and More

Posted September 23, 2024 in Diet, Medical, Nutrition Tip No Comments »
fit man with good oral health

Diet trends have become increasingly popular as people seek new ways to improve their health, manage weight, and align their lifestyles with personal values. Whether it’s veganism, keto, paleo, or intermittent fasting, each of these diets can have a profound effect not only on overall health but also on oral health. While many of these diets are promoted for their health benefits, it’s important to understand how they may impact the health of your teeth and gums.

Understanding the potential benefits and risks of each diet can help you make informed choices that protect your smile while supporting your dietary goals.

Read the rest of this entry »

3 Common Causes of Workout Back Pain (and How to Recover Fast)

Posted September 17, 2024 in Injuries, Medical 1 Comment »
Workout Back Pain

There is nothing more satisfying than a strong back. While bulging biceps, pecs, and quads might seem sexy, they aren’t nearly as effective at increasing strength and stability as robust rhomboids, lats, and traps. However, not only is it easy to inefficiently train the back, but it is incredibly easy to injure those muscles (and the tissues around them) and end up with back pain due to improper technique and inaccurate exercises.

If you want a rope-covered back but you don’t want chronic back pain, here are a few common mistakes you should avoid – and if you are already laid low from a back injury, here’s how you can recover and prevent them in the future.

Read the rest of this entry »

Athletes Should Only Train Sport-Specific Movements

Posted September 13, 2024 in Bodybuilding Myths, Sports 4 Comments »

Should Athletes Train Individual Muscles or Only Sports Movements?

Adrian Gonzalez uses sport-specific training for baseball

Personal trainers have to know how to train people from all walks of life. I’ve seen bodybuilders, strength athletes, middle-aged men, obese housewives, trained athletes, newbies, weekend warriors, and about 100 other types of people and athletes. No one routine can be designed for everyone. Sport-specific movements might be prescribed for some athletes, while others might need a beginner’s routine, while others might only want to focus on powerlifting movements like bench, squats, and deads. We need to always be aware of the athlete’s goals when designing a workout routine.

Even in sport-specific niches like football, baseball, basketball, and soccer, or with other athletes such as powerlifters, bodybuilders, strongmen, and Olympic lifters, there is no one-size-fits-all training routine. You can’t take a baseball pitcher and train the pitching motion for 5 hours a day, 7 days a week. It just won’t work. So how do you train athletes who only need a small variety of movements to be successful at their sport?

Read the rest of this entry »

How to Deal With Lower Back Pain

Posted September 11, 2024 in Injuries No Comments »
lower back pain

Today, a majority of people have experienced some kind of lower back pain. Acute, chronic, local, or pain that is going all through your glutes’ muscles and legs to your foot. All of them are very intensive and they limit us in our everyday life.

So, what causes it, why, and how should you solve lower back pain? Aside from adding a few of the best lower back exercises to your workout routine, here are some additional tips and tricks that can help you prehab and rehab a sore lower back.

Read the rest of this entry »

Hydrate, Nourish, Heal: The Transformative Power of IV Therapy

Posted September 6, 2024 in Medical, Recovery No Comments »
IV treatments help this female athlete with recovery

Intravenous (IV) therapy has been gaining popularity as a means to promote wellness and recovery. This treatment involves directly infusing vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients into the bloodstream, providing immediate benefits. Unlike oral supplements that must pass through the digestive system, IV therapy directly absorbs nutrients into the bloodstream, ensuring maximum efficacy and faster results.

Key Takeaways:

  • IV therapy can help boost energy, facilitate hydration, and enhance overall wellness.
  • Common questions include its benefits, safety, and the process.
  • Research supports the use of IV therapy in recovery and performance enhancement.
  • Hydration and nutrient absorption are key aspects of effectiveness.

Let’s see how much we can learn about the usefulness of intravenous therapy in one article.

Read the rest of this entry »

The 6 Best Arm Exercises You Probably Aren’t Doing

Posted September 5, 2024 in Best Exercises, Fitness Tips No Comments »
athlete with big arms from using the best arm exercises

Who doesn’t want bigger, stronger arms? Almost everyone who lifts weights will, at some point, do exercises for their biceps and triceps. Unfortunately, doing the same old curls and push-downs won’t produce the results you want so we need a fresh list of the best arm exercises that are probably not even in your routine today.

The triceps comprise 2/3 of the size of the upper arms. So while you may have fun building raging biceps, a more triceps-focused routine will probably get you where you need to be quicker. And as a side effect, stronger triceps translate to a stronger bench press if you’re into that sort of thing.

If you are stuck in an arm-building rut, use the following six exercises to breathe life back into your workouts.

Read the rest of this entry »

5 Benefits of Going to the Gym

Posted August 29, 2024 in Exercise, Healthy Lifestyle No Comments »
athletes going to the gym

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become more crucial than ever. Among the various ways to stay fit, going to the gym stands out as one of the most effective and accessible options. Whether you’re looking to shed a few pounds, build muscle, or simply improve your overall well-being, the gym offers a structured environment where you can work towards your fitness goals. But the benefits of going to the gym extend far beyond just physical appearance. From boosting mental health to fostering a sense of community, hitting the gym regularly can have a profound impact on various aspects of your life.

More often than not, we typically start going to the gym because we want to look better. However, exercise offers much more than simply looking good. Regular exercise not only strengthens muscles and increases flexibility, but it can also lower stress, blood pressure, and mood while increasing happiness levels – as well as possibly helping prevent certain diseases or illnesses.

Here are five compelling benefits of going to the gym that can inspire you to make exercise and fitness a regular part of your routine.

Read the rest of this entry »

6 Types of Fitness Classes for Every Skill Level

Posted August 27, 2024 in Exercise, Fitness Tips, Yoga No Comments »
athletes in fitness classes training hard

Participation in sports does not demand from you a high skill level. You just need to start an activity that you enjoy doing. Fitness classes keep your motivation level higher, and you feel improvement in your body with time. Finding the right fitness class can make all the difference in your workout routine, whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or a seasoned athlete seeking a new challenge.

With so many class options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best fit for your skill level and goals. So let us break down six types of fitness classes that cater to every level of experience, ensuring that you can find the perfect match to help you stay motivated, improve your fitness, and have fun along the way.

Read the rest of this entry »

How to Stay Fit While Traveling

Posted August 20, 2024 in Fitness Tips, Travel No Comments »
fit couple traveling

Staying fit and in shape while traveling can be challenging, I get you. When I was traveling in Southeast Asia, I could only find member and personal training gyms.

That said, it’s entirely achievable with the right strategies. Whether you’re navigating bustling cities, relaxing on a beach, or trekking through remote landscapes, maintaining your fitness routine helps you feel energized and ready to make the most of your journey. 

This guide offers practical tips on how to incorporate exercise into your travel plans, make healthy food choices, and stay motivated, ensuring that your adventures leave you feeling just as strong and healthy as when you started.

Read the rest of this entry »

The 5 Best Low-Impact Exercises

Posted August 15, 2024 in Fitness Tips, Sports No Comments »
low-impact exercise man planking

If you’re an exercise enthusiast, it might be hard to wrap your mind around the many benefits of low-impact exercise. Far too many fitness junkies believe that your workout needs to be high-intensity every single time. While there are countless benefits associated with high-intensity exercise, it’s not the only form out there.

Low-impact exercises are especially useful if you’re recovering from a recent injury. They also serve you well when training for a vigorous event. Incorporating low-impact exercises into your workout regime helps condition your body, repair muscles, and give your body the rest it needs to recover. Want to learn more about some of the best low-impact exercises for overall health and strength? Keep reading!

Read the rest of this entry »

The 10 Best Desk Exercises You Can Do at Work

man performing desk exercises

In today’s fast-paced work environment, spending long hours at a desk has become the norm, often at the expense of our physical well-being. However, staying active during work hours doesn’t require a trip to the gym. Incorporating simple desk exercises into your daily routine can help combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting, boost your energy levels, and improve overall health.

Let’s explore the best exercises you can do right at your desk to keep your body moving and your mind sharp, all without leaving your workspace.

Read the rest of this entry »

The Journey to Sobriety: Effective Strategies for Lasting Recovery

female athlete enjoying sobriety in the mountains

Staying sober during recovery from addiction is crucial because it allows individuals to reclaim control over their lives, fostering physical health, mental clarity, and emotional stability. Addiction can lead to devastating consequences, affecting relationships, careers, and overall well-being. Sobriety not only helps in avoiding these pitfalls but also provides the opportunity for personal growth, self-discovery, and the ability to build a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

Key Takeaways:

  • Recognize the role that support networks have in rehabilitation.
  • Explore practical strategies for maintaining sobriety.
  • Find out how mental health plays a part in addiction treatment.
  • Discover actionable tips for overcoming common challenges in recovery.
Read the rest of this entry »

Why a Visit To The Local Injury Clinic May Be Warranted In Australia

Posted August 7, 2024 in Health, Medical, Women's Health No Comments »
Vacationing in Syndey, Australia

Australia’s unique landscape and lifestyle bring about specific health risks that might not be as prevalent in other parts of the world. Whether you’re navigating the rugged outback, enjoying coastal activities, or simply going about daily life, the potential for injury is always present. From encounters with the country’s infamous wildlife to the harshness of its sun-drenched climate, Australians face a variety of dangers that can lead to unexpected accidents. Understanding the importance of visiting a local injury clinic, which is well-versed in handling these specific challenges, is crucial for anyone living in or visiting this diverse continent.

Thankfully there are people who we can turn to at the local injury clinic, such as physiotherapists who are trained to figure out what is wrong with us and to provide us with life-saving solutions.

Read the rest of this entry »

Surf Timing and Takeoff: How to Perfect Your Entry into the Wave

Posted August 6, 2024 in Sports No Comments »
male surfer using precision surf timing

The Importance of Perfect Timing in Surfing

At Pacific Surf School, instructors understand that timing is critical when it comes to catching waves. Perfecting your timing can make the difference between a successful ride and a missed opportunity. Good timing ensures that you catch the wave at just the right moment, allowing you to perform a smooth takeoff and enjoy a more controlled and enjoyable ride. To develop a keen sense of surf timing, it’s essential to observe the rhythm of the waves. Spend a few minutes watching how the waves break before you head out. This will help you understand the intervals and prepare you to catch the right wave at the right time.

Read the rest of this entry »

Predicting Team USA’s Gymnastics Medal Haul at the 2024 Summer Olympics

Posted July 26, 2024 in Sports No Comments »
2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France

The 2024 Summer Olympics, hosted in the beautiful city of Paris are set to showcase strong athletes from 206 countries, all competing for the most-wanted prize – the gold medals

Team USA is no exception, as they hold the record of an incredible 1077 gold medals in their Olympic path, making them the most successful team in the world (on paper). But with such immense merit comes great pressure – the expectancy to always deliver notorious performances and never disappoint the public.

How will they manage?

Easy. Simone Biles, Sha’Carri Richardson, Diana Taurasi, and Katie Ledecky – a few out of the many star powers they need to keep the legacy of Team USA alive.

We must add, that the future of sports in the United States looks promising. But with their storied success, the inevitable question arises: Can Team USA rise to the occasion, or will they crumble?

These athletes are undeniably extraordinary, but experts at NUOPTIMA believe they can gain an extra edge through data-driven predictions and strategic planning at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

And… we’ll explain why!

Read the rest of this entry »

The Top 10 Best Abdominal Exercises Part 2

Two guys with ripped abs who use the best abdominal exercises we discuss below.

Here is the long-awaited follow-up to the Top 10 Best Ab Exercises Part 1 and the precursor to the Top 10 Best Abs Exercises Part 3. Let’s take a look at 5 of our favorite 10 best abdominal exercises, that you can use to get 6-pack abs look. Do these exercises regularly, mix them up, and use different speeds, tempos, angles, and positions to get a full workout. Always try to progress from workout to workout.

Here are 3 ways you can gauge progress with abdominal exercises:

  1. Try to complete more reps in a given period. For example, do as many fold-ups as possible in 60 seconds. Try to break your personal record (PR) for each workout.
  2. Try to complete more total reps each time you perform the exercise. For example, in week one do 3 sets of 10, week 2 do 3 sets of 12, week 3 do 4 sets of 10, week 4 do 3 sets of 15, etc…
  3. If it applies, try to add weight to the exercise by holding a plate or dumbbell on your chest or behind your head, or use a weighted vest. You can also add weight to your legs with ankle weights. Try to use more weight, or complete more reps with the same weight, each time.

Let’s skip any additional small talk here and get on with the exercises.

Read the rest of this entry »