Health and Fitness

So, you have decided to buy a stationary bike. Now, should you purchase either an upright or a recumbent model? Upright cycles put the exerciser in a position similar to a regular bicycle and are good for exercisers who want a more intense workout. However, if you have back problems or are unsteady sitting that high, you might be more comfortable on a recumbent cycle. On a recumbent cycle, the exerciser sits as if in a chair with the legs pedaling out front of the body. The recumbent position gives more support to the back, is more stable, and takes pressure off of the groin area.

From 6 to 16 years old, bicycling is the main form of transportation for kids. But after 16, with a driver's license, we forget the benefits of bicycling. Cycling is a great cardiovascular workout that can be done safely without the pounding on the joints, feet, hips, and back that you get from running or aerobics. Cycling is a great addition to most fitness programs and can be done by all individuals - kids, teens, adults, and seniors!

Spinning is a popular work-out available in most fitness facilities. Usually there are 10-20 stationary cycles set up in a room and an instructor leads a group in the spinning workout. The spinning workout is meant to simulate riding a particular outdoor course. Some spinning rooms have video screens so the participant can 'see' their riding course, while other spinning facilities have special lighting designed to increase motivation. While most facilities say that spinning is for everyone, the workouts can be very intense.

The Facts about Flexibility
Many people think fitness consists solely of strength and the ability to run long distances. Not so. An equally important part of fitness is flexibility. Flexibility is our ability to move a joint through the full range of motion. This allows us to do many basic daily movements such as standing up from a sitting position. Therefore, it is important that everyone maintain flexibility. The easiest way to maintain or increase flexibility is through a proper stretching program.

"Strength Training." The phrase probably causes you to have visions of large, heavily muscled people straining against stacks of weight plates in some musty gym. In actuality, the incorporation of strength training into your workout routine, regardless of whether you are male or female, can lead to several important health benefits and can be done with many items available in your home.

Health Benefits

Ever feel like someone is not telling you the whole story? This can apply to politics, religion, marriage and even exercise topics! So many times people ask me “What is this thing ‘Target Heart Rate’?” Every one tells you to exercise at this or that ‘target heart rate’, but no one ever explains it. Well, that’s what we’re here for at Lighten The Load – to give you the straight scoop about healthy and fine living on the road. And exercise is certainly part of healthy living on the road!