Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 31, 2010
The Turbo Jam series is a fun and seriously popular workout program. The program has helped thousands, maybe even millions of people lose weight, get fit, and feel better about themselves. It blasts a huge amount of calories in a single hour’s work and promotes muscle definition guaranteed to impress. While one of the beauties of this program is that it doesn’t require a lot of equipment, the optional Turbo Jam Gloves are a great addition.
Turbo Jam Gloves are seemingly small. At first glance you may shrug off their necessity and effectiveness. These gloves, however, are small but mighty. Good things come in small packages and the Turbo Jam gloves are no different.
Turbo Jam Gloves can increase your muscle activity by up to 95%!
As with most workout accessories, you are likely wondering if the Turbo Jam Gloves are “required” to be successful on the Turbo Jam workout program. The short answer is no. However, with the level of upgrade these relatively inexpensive gloves add, I can’t think of a reason not to include them. That’s why the Turbo Jam Maximum Results system comes with the gloves.
If Turbo Jam isn’t your thing, consider adding the gloves to other home workouts. These gloves are a great way to help tone your arms and shoulders. If you think you won’t be able to tell the difference when using the Turbo Jam gloves, you are way off.
These gloves are sleek and comfortable. They’re made with a neoprene lining which makes them really comfortable and easy to slide on. Their design makes them flexible enough that you don’t feel like your hands are incapacitated. In addition, they fight tight and close with an easy to manage Velcro panel.
Turbo Jam Gloves are a high quality addition to your workouts. Whether you do Turbo Jam or another at home workout, this small addition makes a big difference in your results.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 30, 2010
Finding a workout you like can be hard. When you have a medical condition like a bad back, it can be even harder. Because abdominal workouts often require the same old sit ups and crunches, some people with back problems skip their abs altogether. This isn’t necessary. With your doctor’s blessing, you can “shop around” many of the different abdominal workouts that promise to cause little strain on the back muscles.
The problem with traditional abdominal workouts is their inclusion of sit-ups. While sit ups are the go-to of ab workouts, they can put serious strain on the discs of the spine. Better abdominal workouts for bad backs are those that work the entire core.
Core muscles are those that support the spine and body. They include the abdominal and back muscles. Working one group without the other can lead to problems. For example, in order to get the most out of your ab workout, you have to have developed some sort of tone in your back muscles. The muscles of the body all have complimenting opposite muscles that work to keep them stable and keep you injury free.
Abdominal workouts appropriate for sore backs include those that can be done in a standing position. Hip Hop Abs offers a great alternative to the typical floor workouts we commonly think of when we think of ab workouts. The DVDs with this program focus on getting fit while standing and use dance to get it done.
Additional options include core workouts inspired by yoga. Planks, bird dogs, and similar poses allow for the engagement of abs and back muscles simultaneously. By strengthening these muscles at the same time, you are less likely to get hurt.
When you have a bad back or chronic back pain, it’s important to talk with your doctor before you start any abdominal workout. Once you get the clearance, consider Hip Hop Abs for an alternative to the stand-by sit-up workout.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 28, 2010
10 Minute Trainer is one of the hottest selling at home workout programs currently available. Its appeal is obvious: fully customizable workouts designed to fit even the most hectic schedule. However, despite its effectiveness, there are some misunderstandings about the program. So, let’s get one thing out of the way. When it comes to 10 Minute Trainer, the best results will be achieved when you stack workouts. This means that 20, 30, and even 40 minute workout days will result in much better changes than a 10 minute workout.
The main misconception when it comes to the 10 Minute Trainer program is that you can get dramatic and healthy weight loss results by working out for 10 minutes a day. While 10 minutes is better than no workout at all, the real results happen when you are able to combine the 10 minute workouts.
Ten Minute Trainer was created to allow workout customization. Tony Horton wants you to combine the workouts. The program wasn’t made to make you ripped in ten minutes; it was made to give you options.
Like any other effective workout program, 10 Minute Trainer requires hard work to see good results. Also like any other workout program, the best results are worth waiting for. Sure, it’s easy to lose weight fast, but the fact is that extreme diets don’t typically result in lasting weight loss.
If you only have 10 minutes to workout on a particular day, then do it. Do what you can. But make up for the shortcomings on days when time is a little more ample.
10 Minute Trainer is the busy man’s workout (or busy woman). This program doesn’t guarantee effortless transformation but it does deliver an easily implemented high quality total body workout designed by one of the top trainers in the game.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 26, 2010
One of the beauties of working out at home is that you don’t need a room full of equipment to make it effective. Home fitness and exercise equipment don’t have to go hand in hand. Sure there are programs out there that require equipment and those that strongly recommend it. We have a few systems here that simply work better with resistance bands or a chin up bar. This doesn’t necessarily mean they are “required”.
Home fitness and exercise equipment can act independently. It’s obvious you don’t need a complete weight set or a home gym to get fit at home. Part of the reason why you chose to do your workouts here is to simplify; the last thing you need is big equipment requirements.
When working out at home, a few well chosen pieces of equipment are all you need. In a pinch, you can often find things around the house to serve the same purposes. Water bottles or milk jugs filled with sand become great hand weights and chairs are a great place to get dips done. Be creative and you will see that home fitness and exercise equipment can really be managed together with little cost or effort.
Now, if you aren’t completely opposed to owning some high quality equipment, you can really make a big difference in your workouts with a small number of items. Resistance bands and a good chin up bar are probably the best small home gym equipment you can invest in. These two items can be used in many home workout programs and the resistance bands can even go with you on the road.
It doesn’t take a weight tower or elliptical machine to get fit at home. Superior home fitness systems can get you fit with minimal equipment needs. If you have any questions about the equipment we sell here, just ask!
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 25, 2010
Getting the right soundtrack for your workout is a continual job. In order for that playlist to stay effective, you want to find new music on a fairly regular basis. While classics are okay, hearing the same songs day after day during your workouts can get old pretty darn fast. When you update your ipod, your workout takes on a new energy and your motivation is kept on high. Finding good Top 40 workout music is a good way to keep your playlist fresh day after day.
Workout music is essential for some people. The energy simply isn’t there without it. Others can take it or leave it but for those who like to rock out while they workout, the right music is crucial. If you’ve ever been to a class or done an at home workout where the music didn’t fit, you know how bad music or bad choreography can totally screw up your workout. Top 40 workout music might not always have your favorites, but it does ensure something new each week.
When loading up your MP3 player, check online for good ideas when it comes to your playlist. Sites like Marie Claire feature several playlists that are updated to include Top 40 workout music on a fairly consistent basis. You can always just check the Billboard charts for other good ideas.
If finding a workout DVD program that already has hot jams is your goal, be sure to check out the Hip Hop Abs section of our site. There you will find several dance inspired workout programs that meld good music with workout choreography that will both get you fit and keep you motivated.
Top 40 workout music is about finding new songs for your playlist on a regular basis. If you have hit repeat on your workout DVD too many times, consider muting it and turning on your own music. Don’t be afraid to mix things up. Keeping fitness fun helps to keep it effective!
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 24, 2010
I know “healthy foods” and “Super Bowl” go together like black socks and sandals but when you are trying to do right by your body you have to realize that healthy foods can go with any occasion, holiday, or major sports event. The playoffs are here and the Super Bowl is right around the corner. You may want to skip the BBQ pork ribs and nachos this year, but there are several healthy snack items that you can replace them with.
Homemade Guacamole Homemade guac is a simple treat and fairly healthy. Yes, it is pretty loaded with fat and even though it is considered a “good fat”, you may want to take it easy. Mash a few avocados, some onion, cumin, cayenne, fresh cilantro, and lime juice and you have the perfect dip for veggies and even a few baked corn chips.
Turkey Brats Bratwurst is a must have with big sporting events. Choose a lower fat turkey brat and grill it. Skip the bun and top with mustard and onions for a meaty snack.
Chili Chili can be an excellent health food. Switch out the ground beef with ground turkey breast. Add plenty of veggies and consider using vegetable broth as the base. A lower sodium broth is a good choice. Serve with hot sauce and crumble some of those baked corn chips on top to get the crunch of the crackers without the processed carbs.
Crudités (aka the veggie tray) Despite it being chocked full of veggies everyone, even those who don’t care about their waist line, will devour a tray of these. Put some light ranch out for dipping or try some hummus for something different.
The Super Bowl, just like Christmas, doesn’t have to be a huge road bump in your healthy eating. Simply incorporate some of these healthy foods and you can still have fun while keeping your calorie consumption at a somewhat reasonable level. However, like other holidays and special events, have fun. Drink a few beers and don’t feel guilty. Tomorrow will be business as usual and time to get back on track with those fitness goals.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 23, 2010
Working out is an exercise in time management as much as it is an exercise in fitness. Finding workout programs that fit your busy life can be tricky. However, finding quick and effective workouts is not entirely impossible. A 10 minute ab workout is long enough to get your midsection toned and ready for summer, but remember to include it as part of a larger fitness plan.
The best 10 minute ab workout is one that is used in conjunction with a total body workout. Chiseled abs are great, if you can see them. However, if your stomach could stand to lose some fat, a 10 minute ab workout won’t be enough if used alone. Finding an ab workout that is both effective and efficient is key.
A 10 minute ab workout is appealing because it is manageable. But imagine if this effective ab workout was part of a workout series that allowed you to get fit in only 10 minute increments. This means you could stack 3 ten minute workouts on weekday mornings, two when you’re busy, and maybe even 4 over the weekend. When you add a ten minute ab workout to that plan, you have a recipe for fitness success.
10 Minute Trainer is just that program. Developed by Tony Horton for people with busy day to day schedules, this system includes several time-conscious workouts, including a highly effective bonus, a 10 minute ab workout.
The 10 minute ab workout included with Ten Minute Trainer is just one bonus you get with this series, a series that allows you to totally customize your workouts based on the time you have available. When you are ready to get fit and want to include a superior ab routine with an efficient workout system, 10 Minute Trainer may be the right fit for you.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 22, 2010
There are numerous contenders online for the absolute best in home workout equipment. Here at Extreme Body Workout we know you don’t have to have a giant tower and entire room dedicated to fitness in order to get the results you want. A few well chosen pieces of equipment and the right workout program are all that’s required. When it comes to pull-up bars, there are two main competitors, the Iron Gym Pull Up Bar and the P90X Chin Up Bar.
The Iron Gym Pull Up Bar is largely popular because of its “As Seen On TV” status. What a better way to get a product into the homes of thousands than to advertise it continuously on television? We aren’t knocking this method as it has proven to be a great marketing method for some of the programs we feature. We do, however, think that a slick commercial doesn’t always translate to a high quality product.
Let’s quickly address the design differences between these two products. Both bars can be easily installed in the doorways of your home. Each has some slight requirements on door measurement to make them work. The P90X bar requires a doorway to be 24- 32 inches wide. The Iron Gym Pull Up Bar requires the same size doorway (24-32”) but also requires the doorway be 5.5 to 6 inches thick. While the P90X bar mounts using a small amount of hardware to make it more secure and safe, the Iron Gym Pull Up Bar hangs using leverage.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly on the design front, the P90X Chin Up Bar features 6 different grip positions. Iron Gym? Only 3.
One of the main marketing points for the Iron Gym Pull Up Bar is that it can be taken down and used for dips and crunches. This is a novel idea. It seems, however, through research online of consumer reviews, the dips that this bar advertises are much better done using chairs. The bar simply doesn’t give you the elevation needed for a highly productive dip motion.
According to consumers, one of the major selling point of the Iron Gym Pull Up Bars is the price. Right now, it seems, you can find the Iron Gym Bar for about $30. We see this argument but stand behind the P90X Chin Up Bar quality and the corresponding price. With the extra grip positions, professional grade foam grips, and heavy gauge steel construction, we know that this is definitely a case of “getting what you pay for”. Also, the P90X Chin UP Bar is part of the P90X program, known for being one of the most popular top quality home workout systems in the world.
Ultimately, which piece of home gym equipment you go with is your decision. Make sure to do your research, checking out consumer reviews and the options available with each bar. After you’ve done your checking and are ready to move forward with the P90X Chin Up Bar, come back to Extreme Body Workout where we also offer the bar in a P90X Special Package, giving you the P90X program along with everything you need to get started.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 20, 2010
There are sports where your vertical jump is a huge asset. Basketball is the primary example, obviously, when how high you jump often translates into rebounds and points. NBA phenom LeBron James, for example, has a vertical leap of 44 inches! While you may be well below that or even within reach, working on your vertical leap can be quite easy when you know the best exercises to jump higher.
Vertical jumps mostly utilize the leg muscles. As you slightly squat and then spring up, you are engaging everything below your hips. It would make sense, then, that the best exercises to jump higher are those that build up the muscles in your lower body and also increase that springing action. Finding a workout program with a high quality lower body routine is a great place to start.
One of the best exercises to jump higher is the squat. Squats primarily work the thighs and the gluteus muscles, crucial groups when jumping. Proper form is important to ensure you are using the right muscle and preventing injury with squats. Consider using a workout ball and doing your squats against the wall. You want to sit back into the squat and slowly lower until your hips are in line with your knees. If these are easy, add some weights. Do 3 sets of 15 to start.
Lunges are another great group of exercises to jump higher. There are numerous ways to do lunges. You can step back into the lunge or lunge forward. As they are all pretty effective, the method you use is largely personal preference. Maintain good form and don’t extend your front knee over your ankle when lunging.
Another powerhouse when examining the best exercises to jump higher is the step-up. Using a chair and being cautious to maintain your balance, step up on to the chair using one leg; raise the other leg and then slowly step back down. You will definitely feel these in the morning.
Lastly, when working on your vertical, remember your reaction time and that initial spring can be improved with some drills. Plyometric workouts are the way to improve your jump height. Check out the Plyo DVD in the P90X series for some serious work and a great way to get your leaping higher.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 19, 2010
While weight loss or muscle tone may be your #1 priority when working out, you cannot neglect the importance of safety. One false move during a workout can cost your months worth of work. Finding ways to maximize the results of your workouts is good but finding ways to keep it safe is even better. Safety doesn’t have to mean reducing the quality of your workout. On the contrary, by keeping your workouts safe you can ensure that your workout routines won’t be interrupted with injury. One good tool in keeping fitness safe is a Manduka Mat.
It may seem like a small addition, and it is. But the Manduka Mat works to cushion your joints and protect you from slipping during some of the most intense P90X workouts.
High impact workouts can be tough on your joints. Things like Plyometrics can really jostle your knees and ankles. While how you land is important, what you are landing on can also make a difference. Proper shoes are a good start in ensuring some of the shock is absorbed, but a Manduka Mat offers extra protection.
The Manduka Plyo Mat we sell here is made with high quality materials. It has a non skid surface to ensure when you land, your feet stay underneath you. In addition, it is ¼ inch thick! This added support helps to absorb some of the shock and momentum of the high powered moves in programs like P90X Plyometrics. It also has a larger surface than most mats, making it easier to land on while executing your jump moves.
Finally, the Manduka mat is a great accessory to have in Yoga. While its uses in Yoga are more about comfort than safety, the mat will ensure that you have proper grounding with each pose, allowing you to go deeper and to push those muscles to their limit.
Safety is too often overlooked when we are striving towards big fitness goals. One injury can put you out of the game for months. The best way to ensure you reach your fitness goals injury-free is to add safety measures like the Manduka to your workout routine.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 18, 2010
The New Year is here and many people are still scrambling to fulfill those resolutions. If weight loss is in your agenda, a fun new workout program is one way to keep the motivation on high. Fun workouts are easier to do. Not easy as in less strenuous or less effective, because workout programs like the Hip Hop Abs DVD series find a way to pair fun and effectiveness.
The original Hip Hop Abs DVD series is one excellent way to stay fit while having a blast. Trainer Shaun T gives you the moves that will deliver results. A rock hard midsection is just one of the benefits of this program. Total body fitness is another. Think it’s impossible to get a sculpted tummy without crunches? Think again. This program proves you can trim that belly without hitting the floor.
If you think Hip Hop Abs is for you, don’t forget to check out the other similar programs from Shaun T. Here at Extreme Body Workout we carry several in addition to the original Hip Hop Abs Dvd.
If the dancing is what draws you to Hip Hop Abs, take a look at the Hip Hop Abs Dance Party Series. This new program is all about getting busy and getting fit. There are four dance party workouts with this system and a extra 5 Minute Ab Blaster Hip Hop Abs DVD as well. As our product description states: “You will be popping, shaking, and gliding your way to hotter sexier abs in no time!”
If you’ve already made it through the original Hip Hop Abs DVD collection, maybe it’s time to take it up a level. The Hip Hop Abs Ultimate Results program is the second level in the Hip Hop Abs system. You get several new workouts with this one, workouts that will challenge you once again and bring your physique to even greater levels of fitness.
Hip Hop Abs isn’t just the original workout program. That original collection was so popular that Shaun T went on to make several more. Don’t limit yourself; take a look at all we have to offer under the Hip Hop Abs section.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 18, 2010
P90X is a popular program. People are always seeking deals and discounts when it comes to anything and P90X is no exception. While you will be hard pressed to find P90X for less than what we sell it here, unless you’re buying it second-hand, we can offer you a great package deal, including all you need to get started at a discounted rate.
We understand that economic times are not their best and many people struggle with spending money on a fitness program. We also know that your health is a priceless investment and preventative measures like a high quality workout program can save you thousands in the long run. However, in order to help, we have created the P90X Special Package, offered only here at Extreme Body Workout. With this package you can get P90X for less.
You’re not stingy for seeking P90X for less, you’re merely a savvy shopper that wants to be certain you are getting the best deal possible.
There are several accessories for the P90X program. None of them are required but there are a few that are highly recommended. Maximum results with the P90X program can be reached by adding a few of these accessories. And now, we offer them together in the P90X Special Package.
The P90X Special Package offers the accessories and P90X for less than if you had purchased them separately: $30 less to be exact. With the package you get the P90X program including 12 workouts, the Nutrition Plan, Fitness Guide, and Calendar. In addition, you will receive the very best P90X accessories including the P90X Chin Up Bar, the P90X Resistance Bands, and the ever popular P90X Recovery Formula.
Dedicating yourself to a 90 day workout program is a great goal and these tools will help ensure you get the best results possible! Check out the P90X Special Package today for the best in P90X value.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 17, 2010
We’re in the thick of winter. With blizzards and record low temps across the country so far, people are hiding out indoors more than normal. While many use the weather as an excuse to get comfortable and neglect their workouts, I suggest you use this time to hit it hard. Emerge from hibernation a changed person. People will be wondering how you spent your holidays when you shed your sweaters and bulky pants to reveal a newly toned and fit body.
If you typically enjoy outdoor workouts, this time of year can be particularly hard. Finding an at home workout that can deliver the same rigorous intensity isn’t as difficult as you might imagine. There are many workout programs designed to completely transform even an already fit body. Think you’re at your physical peak? You may think again after you try P90X or even P90X Plus.
The key to keeping motivation high during the cold winter season is varying your workouts. Don’t try to do the same tired workout day after day. By day 7 you won’t be in it, you’ll simply by shuffling your feet along with the music. Choose a winter workout program that features several different options. You don’t want to get bored while working out as boredom will immediately hurt your motivation and your determination to succeed.
Just because it’s cold outside and you don’t want to get out in it isn’t a good reason for you to let the hard workouts you do over the other 9 months to go to waste. Use this as an opportunity to expand your fitness routine. While walking, running, biking, and other outdoor activities are excellent workouts, if that’s all you’re accustomed to, our body is likely craving some variety.
For additional motivating changes during your winter workouts, consider working out with a friend, spouse, or partner. Put on your own favorite music and turn down the sound on a workout DVD once you have gotten used to the dialogue. Step outside for a breath of fresh air and immediate chill when you need a blast of energy. Most of all, keep the energy high to ensure your winter workouts don’t suffer.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 16, 2010
The term “healthy eating guide” can apply to a number of things. A fad diet book could be considered a healthy eating guide. Just because you can stick this particular label on it, doesn’t necessarily make it so. There are hundreds of “diets” out there and many of them aren’t worth the paper they are printed on. Weeding through them often leads people back to the place where they realize the best diet is one that is nutritionally sound and free of gimmicks and fads. For this reason, a truly healthy eating guide is often the simplest.
The right healthy eating guide for you may be different than the right one for me. We are all different and so are our bodies, our fitness goals, and what we like to eat. Finding the correct healthy eating guide that lines up with all of your individual needs can be tricky. But, it doesn’t have to be.
If you are getting involved in a fitness program and seeking a guide to accompany your workouts talking with a personal trainer or nutritionist might be a good idea. However, most of us don’t have the time or the money for this kind of one on one help. In that case, finding a fitness program that has an eating plan included is a great way to ensure that what you are eating matches your goals and your workouts.
The P90X Nutrition Guide has gotten a lot of good feedback for several reasons. This healthy eating guide not only gives you detailed instructions on how to eat with the accompanying extreme fitness program, it gives you options. Nothing is more difficult to stick with than a nutrition plan or workout that doesn’t have some wiggle room or customization features. With the P90X Nutrition Guide you pick the eating plan that fits your lifestyle.
When looking for the ideal healthy eating guide, don’t forget your preferences and needs. We are often lured by what works for someone only to find it is totally inappropriate for us. Find a nutrition plan that allows you to make some customizations and alterations in order to increase the likelihood of your successes.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 16, 2010
Your home workouts don’t have to be a step below a gym workout. As a matter of fact, you can get just as good of a workout in your home without all the hassle. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on high end equipment and don’t have to shell out a monthly membership to make your home your workout spot of choice. There’s no drive-time and no appearance worries when you workout at home either. A few choice tools, like a moveable chin up bar and resistance bands, and you are good to go.
Chin ups are one of the best basic workout moves there are. Right up there with push-ups, chin-ups should be a staple in your workouts. While you can get the same benefits from a resistance band fastened to a door hinge, having a moveable chin up bar in your home is perhaps the best way to get the benefits out of this move.
There are several options on the market right now for those interested in a moveable chin up bar. Tension mounted pull up bars are one of the more popular choices. The problem I have found with these, however, is they don’t always hold their weight, literally. Safety is of primary concern, especially when you are working out at home and you are alone. A tension mounted pull up bar might be moveable but why sacrifice your safety for portability?
The P90X chin up bar is an excellent choice when it comes to finding a moveable chin up bar. This bar is made of high quality construction and designed to withstand the most serious of pull up workouts; it’s designed for P90X for goodness sake! The bar is installed in a doorway in your home and can be removed between workouts. It has 6 different grip positions and is far sturdier than the competition.
Your home gym doesn’t have to rival the quantity or the cost of a gym to be effective. Simple, high quality tools like the P90X Chin Up Bar are essential, however, in ensuring your workout is as effective and safe as possible.
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