Nutrition Tips For Runners - Juicing Basics

Nowadays, more and more runners are getting into the habit of juicing. This is not about buying a cold boxed cartoon of apple or orange juice but this is about making your own home made juice freshly extracted from fruits and vegetables.
Basically, home made juices are very healthy drinks that your digestive system can absorb within about 15 minutes.
When you make your own juice using fresh fruits and vegetables, you can really extract its rich nutrients and enzymes. This is a big benefit compared to buying boxed juices from convenient stores. Juices from stores are likely to have been depleted of many of its nutrients and enzymes. They are commonly been pasteurized and this destructs their nutritional value.

Why runners need to drink freshly-made juices?
Your optimum performance is related to the high supply of nutrients into your body while maintaining the toxicity level low. Drinking freshly-made juices helps you to achieve both of these goals because they help you to eradicate toxins from your body. Home made juices are also a great source of minerals, vitamins and other natural chemical elements that your body needs to fight disease and function at its best.
Juices versus smoothies
A lot of people seem to be confused to differentiate between juices and smoothies. Smoothies are made from fresh fruits which are blended using a blender while juices are fresh fruits that are put within a juicer. Fruits that are blended using a blender will contain fibres while a juicer will produce a fruit juice which is completely separated from its fibres. The advantage of using a juicer is to allow us consuming large quantities of nutrient-rich juice without burdening our digestive system with their fibres. Freshly extracted fruits and vegetables that are properly juiced using a juicer will be able to by pass your digestive system and be absorbed very quickly. We need to stress, however, that we are not advising you to ditch fibres from your diet. We just want to let you know that juices complement your high fibre diet.

Best juice for runners
All juices offer great nutritious benefits but in our opinion, the green juices are the best for runner as they have high chlorophyll content which can assist you to oxygenate your blood. Green vegetables also have high minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium, which are all important for health. Green juices also have the least impact on your blood sugar so you will not experience sudden blood sugar spikes that can drain your energy.

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Potassium

While sodium is our principle extracellular cation (positively charged ion), potassium is our principal intracellular cation.
The normal functioning of the human body depends on an intricate balance of potassium and sodium concentrations. Potassium plays a critical role in nerve impulse transmission, maintaining cellular fluid volume and pH, muscle contraction, heart function and tissue growth and repair. Additionally, potassium helps our body hold onto calcium, while excessive sodium leads to both potassium and calcium loss (Rhoades and Pflanzer, 1996; Schauss, 1998).
Potassium is not as readily lost in sweat, partially because the composition of sweat is more similar to extracellular fluids, and potassium is primarily found intracellularly.
However, prolonged sweating in hot environments does lead to potassium loss through sweat, which may have significant consequences. The Committee on Military Nutrition Research, Food and Nutrition Board published a book called Fluid Replacement and Heat Stress. The chapter entitled “Potassium Deficiency as the Result of Training in Hot Weather” came to the conclusion that potassium loss in extreme training conditions may adversely effect blood flow, muscle function and energy storage, impairing both endurance and performance.

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Top 5 Exercises for a Healthy Heart

Walking Vs Running - What's Best For You?

When considering the issue for walking vs running, there are numerous kinds of factors to consider.

Let's make this much simpler by itemizing all the positives and negatives of walking vs running.

Running Pro's

It's an extremely quick way to get fitter

It's relatively cheap to do

It's simple, you don't need any distinct ability or talents.

You'll get a genuine high after ending your runs

Running Negatives

It's normally too over facing for newbies and anybody who is weighty

It places a large amount of strain on the joints of the ankles, knees, hips and lower back.

You'll have to get hold of a pair of high-quality (often costly) trainers

Most people don't take pleasure in the feeling of forcing themselves out of their comfort zone that far.

Walking Pro's

You are able to walk any place and at anytime.

If you're battling to fit in a walk some day, it's super easy to build up your steps by walking around your house

You actually don't need to have any specialized accessories

Your walking workouts starts whenever you exit your front door

You don't need to get sweaty or work very hard

You can work at different intensities for the way you feel.

It's an exceptionally satisfying type of exercise that is also really sociable

Walking Disadvantages

It's considered being 'too easy'

You have to be constant to see any results

The fitness benefits won't be as fast as with other physical activities

When you're reviewing walking vs running it's advisable to think of your former experiences of exercise and what you really enjoy or dislike about it. If you'd prefer pushing yourself to the limit then you might instantly think that running is the only choice.

However this is far from the truth.

You could consider employing level 4 power walking or possibly quickly walking up a difficult slope on a hill or a running machine. I promise if you walk as quickly as you can on the steepest incline you can use that you'll be shattered by the end of it.

When comparing walking vs running with regards to which is the most powerful choice for you to use to shed weight, then I advise that you look at it like this. Many people would run perhaps a couple times per week when getting started and they'd be successful to run a maximum of 5 minutes in total. This could burn approximately 150 - 200 calories from fat.

However if they as a substitute went for a regular walk for half an hour at a time they would burn significantly more calories, as many as 1400 each week depending on how quick and what surface was walked over.

So there are many reasons to take into consideration before choosing walking vs running, it's not necessarily the obvious option which you may think.

Discover just HOW EFFECTIVE walking vs running can be for burning fat and toning all those hard to reach places.

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What Is A Cramp?

When you exercise, you sometimes feel a painful sensation in your muscles. This painful sensation is often referred to as a cramp. Cramps cause severe and sudden pain in the affected area and they usually happen during exercise or vigorous activities such as running or sprinting.

There are many things that can cause cramps. One of the most common causes is overextension. When your muscles are overused or suddenly used, they tighten. This is because they are not used to such movements. Another common cause is dehydration. When your body lack fluids, the blood becomes thicker and the blood circulation becomes less efficient. As a result, your muscles cannot get the oxygen they need leading to the spasms. In addition, dehydration can also be related to electrolyte imbalance. If the amounts of potassium, sodium and calcium in your body are not balanced, your muscles will experience cramps.

Cramps can be categorized into two main types. The first type is known as the true cramp. Most people experience this type as it is caused mainly by vigorous movements and injuries. True cramps may happen during or after an exercise routine depending on the severity of the activity. They also happen when your body is injured especially when broken bones affect the muscles around them. The second type is known as the rest cramp. Rest cramps happen not when the body is inactive. For instance, if you have been sitting for many hours, your muscles become inactive and the blood circulation in your body is altered. This type can be very disruptive especially when you are sleeping. Rest cramps can also be caused by dehydration or fluid loss. They usually happen during summer when the temperature is very high. This is because your body gives off too much liquid through sweating.

There are several ways on how you can prevent your muscles from cramping. The first way is to breathe properly. Deep breaths are always advisable especially when you are exercising. If you maintain a good breathing technique, your muscles will not lack oxygen. The second way is to drink water. Since dehydration is a major cause of cramps, you need to make sure your body has the right amount of fluids all the time. This is mainly important during the summer season. The third way is to eat potassium-rich foods. This is to balance the electrolytes in your body that will aid to healthier muscles. The fourth way is to drink milk. Your muscles also need calcium therefore you need to supply them adequately. The fifth way is to avoid inactivity. You need to move your body every few hours to help the muscles loosen up. The last step is to do warm-up exercises. Before you embark on vigorous exercise routines, you need to prepare your muscles by stretching.

These are the things that you need to know about cramps. Knowing them will help you avoid painful sensations when you exercise.

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4 Easy and Effective Tips To Get Rid of Cellulite

Getting rid of cellulite can be hard, but it is not impossible. All men and women need to do is put their mind to it and put their body to work. Then they can burn off the fat, diminish the appearance of cellulite, and look the best they've ever looked in a swimsuit.

Eating the Right Foods

There are foods people can eat that will actually help them burn calories and lose weight. This helps diminish the appearance of cellulite. It also helps cellulite go away for good. Eating spicy foods for example will help men and women burn calories while they eat. The same goes for low fat dairy products such as cheese and milk.

Really it is about knowing the limits on what should and should not be eaten. Then there is the limitation also with overeating. Eating three healthy meals is good or eating six small meals throughout the day works well. Talking to your doctor may clear up what needs to be done.

Coffee Wrap

A coffee wrap is a do-it-yourself option that many men and women can do with just the ingredients in the kitchen. All a person needs are some coffee grounds. Warm those coffee grounds up in the microwave (careful: do not burn yourself) and then apply a layer of coffee grounds to the stomach, thighs, or buttocks. This provides the area with moisture and helps block the formation of fat cells.

Caffeine, when applied topically, decreases the growth of fat cells. This is what makes caffeine such a great weapon when fighting cellulite. After a layer has formed, wrap the area in saran wrap and then leave for 15 minutes. The wrap should not be too tight where it cuts off circulation; so be careful.

Running

Running is a great form of exercise and it does not require a gym membership. Of course, checking with a doctor before undergoing any rigorous routine is a pretty good idea. Especially if it has been awhile since those running shoes saw any action. Going for a run three to five times a week is good for the heart and a good way to fight cellulite.

Sticking with a routine is a great way to get a handle on those love handles. Cellulite is just trapped cells underneath the skin. Working those cells out of being stuck means they can properly be disposed of by the body. That is what running does for cellulite.

Cellulite Cream

A cellulite skin care cream may be used to help fight off cellulite in conjunction with the running, eating right, and coffee wrap. Again look for something that uses caffeine as a topical application since it is so strong in fighting off the growth of fat cells.

What are you doing to reduce cellulite? Know all about the cellulite solutions that diminish the appearance of cellulite on the thighs, stomach, and buttocks.

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What Are the Best Fitness Workouts?

The term "fitness workouts" is often misleading. While many believe that fitness workouts refer to anything that assists you in keeping yourself fit, the correct meanings are somewhat different. By definition, fitness workouts are those kinds of physical activity or workout that "when combined with well-balanced, recommended diet" will help you lose weight and extra body fat in the optimal time frame.

To better understand the term, consider the following examples of some recommended fitness workouts which, when combined with healthy diet, will help you lose weight fast and significantly:
1- Running (or jogging)
2- Brisk walking (one that makes you sweat profusely)
3- Playing football, soccer or any sport that involves running and intense physical activity

4-Swimming (an excellent fitness workout)
5- Treadmill / elliptical (cardio) exercise
Why they are so important?
Weight loss experts, dietitians and nutritionists are now of the unanimous opinion that any diet plan or fitness program (no matter how strong and famous it is) would not work alone until and unless it is implemented and practised in conjunction with regular fitness workouts such those mentioned-above. So, the million dollar question is; what's so special about these workouts?
Well, the main significance of these workouts is actually hidden in the fact that they greatly enhance the weight reduction process and fat burning effect of the diet consumed on daily basis. In other words the weight, that you would lose in one month by diet alone, can actually be lost in a period as short as two weeks by performing the recommended fitness workouts along with following a specific diet schedule.
How do fitness workouts work?
Almost all of the fitness workouts work by increasing the rate of the burning of dietary and body fat. In other words, such workouts tend to increase and speed up the rate of metabolism which eventually leads to faster calorie burning and greater calorie expenditure. As a result of this increased calorie burning, you lose more weight at a faster speed. On the other hand, at the same time, because of the weight loss diet you're on, you are already eating less. Therefore, this dual mode of action of fewer calorie consumption plus greater calorie expenditure leads to the overall weight loss effect.

How to get the maximum out of these workouts?
One of the best ways to intensify and maximize the effects of fitness workouts is to perform them in conjunction with the use of some recommended diet or herbal supplement. Studies and clinical data have proved that using a proven herbal weight reduction supplement along with regular weight loss workouts can actually help you maintain optimal body weight, figure and shape on permanent basis.

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Selecting the Right Running Shoes

Selecting the right running shoe is essential to make your running experience more enjoyable and pain-free. The type of shoe you choose depends a lot upon whether you do recreational, regular or competitive running; indoor, road, or cross country running; as well as any physical conditions that may have. You should certainly consult with the sales staff (and possibly with a sports trainer or physician) to identify the right type of shoe for your situation. You may have to experiment with different brands and types of shoes to find ones that meet your needs.

Over the years I have learned, sometimes the hard way, about the importance of running with proper footwear. Whenever I have pain in my feet, legs, or knees, I start with the basics - the shoes! How old are they? Do the shoes fit properly and have adequate cushioning, traction, and stability? This article describes my experiences with various issues caused by my running shoes. I hope this may give you insight and information to help you with problems you may have right now. Regardless, you should always consult with your physician about any continuing pain you experience as a result of running.

Shoe size is the most important criteria. You need to buy shoes at least a half-size larger than your regular shoes. You should also make sure they are wide enough. Why? On landing, your foot absorbs the force of the impact by expanding in both length and width. If the shoe is too small, the impact force is not absorbed properly and instead is transmitted up the leg.
When I experienced tendonitis in the left knee, the specialist I consulted explained the pain is caused by the impact of the foot being transmitted up leg to irritate the tendons in the knee. Some runners are prone to this condition. The doctor prescribed a pain reliever and a Cho-Pat strap worn just below the kneecap to moderate the force on the patellar tendon. It helped the symptoms but did not solve the real problem.
I had recently purchased new shoes that were a good brand with adequate cushioning. At the time the size seemed large enough. As an experiment, I tried running in my old shoes and discovered that my new shoes were too small! On impact, my left toe (my left is the bigger foot) was pushing up against the front of the shoe. I bought shoes a half-size larger and the tendonitis went away!
Another issue related to shoe size is getting the tension of the laces correct. I found that if my laces were tied too tightly I would get pains in the ankles, shins, and/or knees, especially if I laced the last eyelet at the top. It took a few tries but I eventually got the laces adjusted so that they were loose enough to run yet the shoes stayed on my feet.
Shoe cushioning is the second most important criteria. Shock absorbency is provided by the sole and may also include air pockets, springs, or gel pads. If you run on indoor tracks or cross country you may be able to get away with less cushioning, but running on hard surfaces will tell you after a few runs if the shoes have sufficient cushioning. Some running and cross country shoes (even when new) do not have adequate cushioning for me.

Also running shoes lose their ability over time to absorb the shock of running. As your shoes age you get used to their feel and it is sometimes difficult to identify the point at which they should be replaced. For the type of running I do, I replace my shoes after about 18 months.

Another factor related to shoe cushioning is the stiffness of the soles. Stiff soled shoes may add spring to your step but for some runners (like me) it magnifies the shock, just like running in bare feet on concrete or the beach at Daytona. When you are buying shoes, flex the soles with your hands to feel the difference.
The price of the shoe is an important indicator of quality. This is where your type of running is also a factor. If you are a recreational runner, you may be able to get by with a cheaper shoe. But remember, you do get what you pay for. Competitive runners usually require top of the line shoes. I run about 10-12 miles per week and buy mid-level shoes from only a couple of manufacturers simply because I started with these brands and have had good experience with their products. Through experimentation, you too will find the brand and style that suits you best.

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Health & Mental Health Benefits of Running

5 Ways A Morning Run Will Change Your Life - Running Motivation

How to Be Fit All Year Long

As a fitness instructor, I often see major fluctuations in class attendance from month to month. In January, May, and September, my classes are packed. You know exactly what I mean. New Year's resolutions, pre-summer, and "kids back in school" all send us into a sudden fitness mania. We rush to the gym to pump some iron or to a group exercise class. We might even stand near the instructor, admiring our efforts in the mirror. Others hire a personal trainer.

 Then, almost out of nowhere, life interrupts.
The excuses are plentiful and often legit. Sadly, these almost impulsive decisions to become fit are rarely successful. The sense of failure that accompanies a short-lived resolution can send us on an unhealthy tailspin. The solution is to choose a fitness goal and stick to it. Easier said than done, right? Not really. A true fitness goal needs to be well-planned, honest, and supported. How you ask?:

1. Create a realistic SMART (specific, measurable, attainable/realistic, and timebound). For example, "I will lose 8 pounds by the end of four weeks, which will be August 8th, 2011, by improving my diet, reducing calories, and increasing physical activity." Write your goal down and tell family and friends about it. The key is to make yourself accountable for the goals you set.
2. Monitor your progress often. Keep a food journal and commit to weighing in on the same day each week. Don't be discouraged if the number isn't what you expected, but analyze your recent habits.
3. Recruit others to work out with you. Make sure that it's someone who is just as enthusiastic and committed as you are, don't let anyone sabotage your efforts.
4. Reward yourself for the baby steps. The reward shouldn't be detrimental to your goals! Stay away from any alcoholic, sweet, or high fat reward.

5. Run. There is NO better exercise than running. Sign up and train for a local race. Make sure you announce your intention to as many people as possible, including social networks (i.e. Facebook, Twitter). Healthy competition against others, or against yourself, will help you stay on track. You'll be hooked after your first race. Of course, if your joints disagree with running, choose a less high impact activity like swimming.


6. Join a fun fitness class that you enjoy. Zumba, Turbo Kick, and Masala Bhangra all offer fast and catchy beats. Find a qualified instructor (fitness certifications) and get hooked. Go consistently!
Whatever you decide, make it a long-lasting habit. The only way you'll progress is if you stick with it!
So, "congratulations, today is your day. You're off to great places, you're off and away!" Go for it!








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Water - What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Water

We know we should but how much water should I drink? One cup every hour? 8 cups a day? What are the benefits of drinking water? How about this one – 8 glasses of water before breakfast! Heard that one?
Water comes in many shapes and sizes. There's tap water, bottled water, filtered water, rain water, distilled water to name a few.

Most of you drink bottled water if at all or the odd glass of tap water. Of all the choices distilled and filtered are the best. You may say "I drink lots of liquids every day - tea, coffee, soft drinks and sodas so I must be getting my daily intake of water." Well these are not water. Somewhere along the production line the water got transformed into - tea, coffee, soft drinks, sodas etc they are not water! And they definitely contain substances that are not good for your health.

Well, there are certain things to know about water that will help you make educated decisions about it – how much to drink; what water to drink; its benefits etc. In my research into this subject I’ve discovered some very interesting facts.
Your body is about 70% water. You probably know this but look further – that’s your muscles and brain are 75% water, your blood and lungs are more than 80& water and even your bones are 25% water. So if your liquid intake consists of tea, coffee, soft drinks and sodas, then your body’s water is polluted.
Feeling tired all the time? Chronic fatigue? Cravings? Excessive hunger? Depressed? These are some of the symptoms of DEHYDRATION.

Next to know is that your water should be alkaline, that’s above 7 on the Ph scale. Having a high acid intake of liquids and food will lead to weight problems and disease.

Water is definitely essential in maintaining health. If you have any of the above symptoms then you may be dehydrated. Water effects your body at a cellular level.




















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by Paul Graham

How to Lose Weight in 1 Month