The hip flexor muscles are an important muscle group used in everyday activity and sport. However, it is very common for people to neglect hip flexor exercises in their strength training. What Are Hip Flexors? There are five key muscles contributing to hip flexion. The two main muscles and prime movers of the hip…
June 21 is a special day for many reasons – the first day of summer, National Indigenous Peoples Day, and International Yoga Day. PLUS, it falls within Pride Month and Indigenous History Month. The Summer Solstice Karma Class is a pay-what-you-can event from 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., and we’ll split the proceeds between the…
The functional trainer or “cable machine” is a piece of equipment you can use for a variety of exercises to help you meet your fitness goals. The great thing is it allows you to train at a greater range of motion, but requires less technical demands to learn a movement. For example, the classic barbell…
The fitness studio was dimly lit with glowing, flameless candles and the emerging morning sun. It was my first time instructing a fusion class, which is a blend of pilates and yoga. It was a cozy and relaxing start to that January day in 2018, for both myself and the class. This is one of…
The squat is a fundamental, complex movement in weight training. The major muscles involved are glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps. There are all kinds of different squats out there. Some with dumbbells, barbells, and kettlebells; while others put weight at the front, or back, or even over the head. You may wonder, why mix up…
What is interval training? Interval training manipulates the intensity and duration of the work intervals and length of the rest periods to create the desired training responses. Interval workouts comprise several short, alternating periods of both higher and lower intensity exercises. How does interval training work? During the periods of activity, interval training works on…
What is a Landmine Workout? A workout using the landmine anchors one end of a barbell to the floor, allowing the bar to move at an arc-like path. Using the landmine works different movements, like pushing, pulling, squatting, deadlift, and rotational movements. Benefits of a Landmine Workout Using the landmine: Provides stability in your…
The Turkish get-up has been around since the turn of the century and was a tool used by both the military, strongmen, and elite athletes – and for good reason. Traditionally used with a kettlebell, the get-up can be performed with a dumbbell, barbell, or even your own bodyweight. When performed correctly and regularly, the…
The Pyramid Workout is back! This time, let’s work on our conditioning. What is a Pyramid Workout? The pyramid workout is a specific workout structure where you progress through exercises, going back through the ones you’ve completed before moving on to the next exercise. Once you reach the last exercise, you work backwards. When…
Heading out to the beach this summer? Try adding some variety to your fitness routine and do your next workout in the great outdoors! By taking your workout to the beach, you can enjoy the added benefits of soaking in the sun while increasing your vitamin D levels, breathing the fresh air while boosting your…