Happy Holidays!
I wanted to send a big "Thank you" to everyone.
I started this endeavor to help people, 1 or 2 at least, and keep
my mind engaged.
Knowing you are taking the time to read my notes, rants and raves,
makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.
It has become much more than that. It has given me the opportunity
to expand on ideas, engage in dialogue and share experiences with
people from around the world.
Now on to next year. New experiences to come. New notes to share.
I am really looking forward to continuing this in the new year and
sharing with you my trips, training and motivation.
I'll be off doing the family thing so notes will be a little spaced
out. Not unlike myself.
Thank you again. Here's to another wonderful year.
Have a great one everyone!
In health,
Todd
Friday, December 26, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
What would you do with the 3hrs 2 minutes?
Do you have your motivation now?
Good cause you're gonna need it for this one.
As it turns out, short, intense sessions work the best for you.
The best part, my "intense" doesn't have to be yours. As long as you are pushing yourself to your limit, you are in the game. And with body-weight movements, for example, the bar is always moving when you change the speed of the movement or how many you do of something.
How great is that? Gym in a body!
And it impacts metabolism greater in the long term than long slow cardio. Note: I did not say how many calories burned DURING the activity. I said metabolism increase in the long term.
Study after study repeatedly shows the tremendous impact of interval training.
The other best part: it doesn't take nearly so long.
Get this (and I know some of you won't believe me but this is SCIENCE!):
A recent study out of the UK, with the help of McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont, showed that the metabolic impact of 5 40 minute runs in a week can be replicated with 3(!) 6 minute(!) interval sessions. Each minute was 30 seconds hard, 30 seconds light.
Imagine, 3 hours and 20 minutes being replaced each week with 18 minutes of activity! And getting the same results!
That's a lot of exclamation points!
The only thing I ask, if you are just starting out, is that you get clearance from your doctor and get a fitness professional to help you get started.
Fitness professionals: we area handy bunch, put us to good use.
So chew on that for a while and try it. Ironically, start off slowly. Build up to a good pace when you are ready.
Have a great day!!!
In health,
Todd
Good cause you're gonna need it for this one.
As it turns out, short, intense sessions work the best for you.
The best part, my "intense" doesn't have to be yours. As long as you are pushing yourself to your limit, you are in the game. And with body-weight movements, for example, the bar is always moving when you change the speed of the movement or how many you do of something.
How great is that? Gym in a body!
And it impacts metabolism greater in the long term than long slow cardio. Note: I did not say how many calories burned DURING the activity. I said metabolism increase in the long term.
Study after study repeatedly shows the tremendous impact of interval training.
The other best part: it doesn't take nearly so long.
Get this (and I know some of you won't believe me but this is SCIENCE!):
A recent study out of the UK, with the help of McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont, showed that the metabolic impact of 5 40 minute runs in a week can be replicated with 3(!) 6 minute(!) interval sessions. Each minute was 30 seconds hard, 30 seconds light.
Imagine, 3 hours and 20 minutes being replaced each week with 18 minutes of activity! And getting the same results!
That's a lot of exclamation points!
The only thing I ask, if you are just starting out, is that you get clearance from your doctor and get a fitness professional to help you get started.
Fitness professionals: we area handy bunch, put us to good use.
So chew on that for a while and try it. Ironically, start off slowly. Build up to a good pace when you are ready.
Have a great day!!!
In health,
Todd
Monday, December 8, 2008
Hiatus
Why do we fall off
There are many reasons why we fall off our routines. The point I am making today is that it is normal. It's not a control problem, impulse issues or a chemical imbalance. It's just what we, as humans, do. We get distracted.
Oh look, a shiny object...
Wait, what,... oh yeah
Getting back to it
What is important is why we are doing something. If it is highly motivational it is more likely that you are going to get back to it.
I am not going to get all preachy as to what the best motivation is. It's none of my business frankly. But you had better know what it is and be firm. It is the one (or three) thing(s) that will get you moving every time.
To quote "Fast Times at Ridgemount High" - Learn it, love it, live it.
3 days grace
So as it turns out 3 days grace is what you have. If the pause goes on longer than that it is much less likely that you will get back to it anytime soon.
That's the brain for you. It picks a number and that is that. So use this to your advantage. If you ever drop off for a moment be sure to resume activities within 3 days.
Sure there are good reasons for longer then accept it and prepare to get started again.
I stopped for about two weeks (and I am glad no one called me on it) but I have been itching to get back to it. I love to do this so it was a great motivator. So I am back. For better or worse. Ok, stop laughing...
What do you need to do today
So what have you been missing out on? What do you need to do today to get you back on track, or started for that matter? What is going to motivate you every day!?!
If I could do anything today, I hope it is to motivate someone to action. Get it done.
Get at it people. Time waits for no one!
In health,
Todd
There are many reasons why we fall off our routines. The point I am making today is that it is normal. It's not a control problem, impulse issues or a chemical imbalance. It's just what we, as humans, do. We get distracted.
Oh look, a shiny object...
Wait, what,... oh yeah
Getting back to it
What is important is why we are doing something. If it is highly motivational it is more likely that you are going to get back to it.
I am not going to get all preachy as to what the best motivation is. It's none of my business frankly. But you had better know what it is and be firm. It is the one (or three) thing(s) that will get you moving every time.
To quote "Fast Times at Ridgemount High" - Learn it, love it, live it.
3 days grace
So as it turns out 3 days grace is what you have. If the pause goes on longer than that it is much less likely that you will get back to it anytime soon.
That's the brain for you. It picks a number and that is that. So use this to your advantage. If you ever drop off for a moment be sure to resume activities within 3 days.
Sure there are good reasons for longer then accept it and prepare to get started again.
I stopped for about two weeks (and I am glad no one called me on it) but I have been itching to get back to it. I love to do this so it was a great motivator. So I am back. For better or worse. Ok, stop laughing...
What do you need to do today
So what have you been missing out on? What do you need to do today to get you back on track, or started for that matter? What is going to motivate you every day!?!
If I could do anything today, I hope it is to motivate someone to action. Get it done.
Get at it people. Time waits for no one!
In health,
Todd
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Big things are going down!
Hello,
Today's message is about catching up. I have some announcements. It
has been a couple weeks since our last message. And for good reason.
First of all I was selected as a member of the provincial
SOGOActive Advisory Committee to increase fitness and activity
education for youths.
Then I landed a gig as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for a
local elite girls basketball team. Very exciting!
Then sold my house. Started packing this week.
Then found out my mother in law has cancer of the lungs and was
immediately shuttled into surgery at the next available time. She
made it out quite well and is recovering as we speak. However the
packing and moving will happen without my rock and lovely wife
(same person!) as she is off to be by her mom's side. I'll hang
with the kids in the meantime.
To say that I have been a little bit busy would be an
understatement.
But it also has made me appreciate all the help and interest I have
had from my readers.
Thank you for your time and interest. We only make this trip once
so let's have a good time and make the most of it
Thank you all.
In health,
Todd
Today's message is about catching up. I have some announcements. It
has been a couple weeks since our last message. And for good reason.
First of all I was selected as a member of the provincial
SOGOActive Advisory Committee to increase fitness and activity
education for youths.
Then I landed a gig as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for a
local elite girls basketball team. Very exciting!
Then sold my house. Started packing this week.
Then found out my mother in law has cancer of the lungs and was
immediately shuttled into surgery at the next available time. She
made it out quite well and is recovering as we speak. However the
packing and moving will happen without my rock and lovely wife
(same person!) as she is off to be by her mom's side. I'll hang
with the kids in the meantime.
To say that I have been a little bit busy would be an
understatement.
But it also has made me appreciate all the help and interest I have
had from my readers.
Thank you for your time and interest. We only make this trip once
so let's have a good time and make the most of it
Thank you all.
In health,
Todd
Saturday, November 8, 2008
STOP WORKING OUT!
STOP WORKING OUT!
The kids had it right all along!
It's happening right in your own back yard. Play time.
It turns out that shorter, more intense bursts of intensity are really, really good for you.
No gym necessary.
It only takes minutes a day to gain benefits that others need hours to do.
Warning: Nerd Content
Researchers have found short sharp sprints of up to 30 seconds could be as beneficial as doing up to five sessions of an hour's exercise a week.
The university studied the exercise patterns over several years, comparing short high-intensity sprints to longer endurance training, such as cycling and jogging.
Prof Julien Baker, who conducted the research with Prof Bruce Davies, said: "Six 30-second sprints three times a week can have the same health and weight-loss benefits as jogging or cycling for up to 45 minutes several times a week.
Nerd Content Complete
Just so you know, it can also be done on a rower, bicycle or treadmill when we get trapped indoors during beautiful snowy days.
Any one of my clients can tell you the results they get with this type of activity. Even with their hectic schedules.
With the proper structure and support of my groups you will achieve the results you are looking for. Starting out where you are now, not sprinting right out of the gate, means a lifetime of gains for you.
So go and make it fun and invigorating.
It will be fun, effective, aaaand metabolic boosting!
Who wants to take advantage of that? Anyone?
If you are in the neighborhood and would like to see this for yourself please drop in.
The first on is on me!
The kids had it right all along!
It's happening right in your own back yard. Play time.
It turns out that shorter, more intense bursts of intensity are really, really good for you.
No gym necessary.
It only takes minutes a day to gain benefits that others need hours to do.
Warning: Nerd Content
Researchers have found short sharp sprints of up to 30 seconds could be as beneficial as doing up to five sessions of an hour's exercise a week.
The university studied the exercise patterns over several years, comparing short high-intensity sprints to longer endurance training, such as cycling and jogging.
Prof Julien Baker, who conducted the research with Prof Bruce Davies, said: "Six 30-second sprints three times a week can have the same health and weight-loss benefits as jogging or cycling for up to 45 minutes several times a week.
Nerd Content Complete
Just so you know, it can also be done on a rower, bicycle or treadmill when we get trapped indoors during beautiful snowy days.
Any one of my clients can tell you the results they get with this type of activity. Even with their hectic schedules.
With the proper structure and support of my groups you will achieve the results you are looking for. Starting out where you are now, not sprinting right out of the gate, means a lifetime of gains for you.
So go and make it fun and invigorating.
It will be fun, effective, aaaand metabolic boosting!
Who wants to take advantage of that? Anyone?
If you are in the neighborhood and would like to see this for yourself please drop in.
The first on is on me!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Athletic Youth Nutrition
I am really excited about next week.
I have been invited to do a pre/post nutrition competition segment
for youths for a CBC show called Living Halifax.
This is a little snippet of what I will be covering.
It has been long believed that "Carb Loading" was what you had to
do to get energy before a big game.
So the big plate of pasta became a staple.
Turns out it is not entirely accurate.
Grazing is better. Sipping a Carbohydrate/electrolyte mix after a
standard sized meal will boost energy.
So depending on the time of day your meals will be standard sized.
No gigantic meal before a game.
Graze, sip your drink and avoid foods that are heavy in fats.
And take advantage of the breaks to sip more carb/electrolyte drink
during timeouts and at halftime.
If you have any more questions please let me know. I love to help
young athletes perform at their highest level!
I have been invited to do a pre/post nutrition competition segment
for youths for a CBC show called Living Halifax.
This is a little snippet of what I will be covering.
It has been long believed that "Carb Loading" was what you had to
do to get energy before a big game.
So the big plate of pasta became a staple.
Turns out it is not entirely accurate.
Grazing is better. Sipping a Carbohydrate/electrolyte mix after a
standard sized meal will boost energy.
So depending on the time of day your meals will be standard sized.
No gigantic meal before a game.
Graze, sip your drink and avoid foods that are heavy in fats.
And take advantage of the breaks to sip more carb/electrolyte drink
during timeouts and at halftime.
If you have any more questions please let me know. I love to help
young athletes perform at their highest level!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Take your time to eat!
It has been noted that eating slowly aids in digestion. Goes
without saying that it aids in energy replenishment as well.
Taking the time to sit with family and friends and relax during
meal times will help increase your energy.
This gives lots of time for the body to recognize the fullness of
the stomach at mealtime as well.
No cramming food in on a break.
No snarfing down donuts during a meeting.
No noshing on burgers in the car.
Here is a BBC article about a Japanese study on Obesity and the
speed of eating.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7681458.stm
You've heard the old adage, chew 20 times before you swallow? Well
it looks like it has some scientific props now.
Should have listened to Mom!
So how rushed are you? Eating fast indicates a few things at
least.
1. You are rushing, not taking time for yourself.
2. Food is not getting the attention it needs for proper breakdown
and absorption because it is lost in the volume of an over-eating
session.
3. You are probably not sitting down with friends and being social
(that one usually hurts the most, oddly enough)
So grab the family, sit them down for breakfast and talk and eat.
Take your time. With a little bit of planning it can happen.
Remember, put yourself first so everyone can benefit.
I'm personally going to be focusing on this over the next week.
Please try it out. What can it possibly hurt. You may even taste
your food for the first time in a while.
without saying that it aids in energy replenishment as well.
Taking the time to sit with family and friends and relax during
meal times will help increase your energy.
This gives lots of time for the body to recognize the fullness of
the stomach at mealtime as well.
No cramming food in on a break.
No snarfing down donuts during a meeting.
No noshing on burgers in the car.
Here is a BBC article about a Japanese study on Obesity and the
speed of eating.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7681458.stm
You've heard the old adage, chew 20 times before you swallow? Well
it looks like it has some scientific props now.
Should have listened to Mom!
So how rushed are you? Eating fast indicates a few things at
least.
1. You are rushing, not taking time for yourself.
2. Food is not getting the attention it needs for proper breakdown
and absorption because it is lost in the volume of an over-eating
session.
3. You are probably not sitting down with friends and being social
(that one usually hurts the most, oddly enough)
So grab the family, sit them down for breakfast and talk and eat.
Take your time. With a little bit of planning it can happen.
Remember, put yourself first so everyone can benefit.
I'm personally going to be focusing on this over the next week.
Please try it out. What can it possibly hurt. You may even taste
your food for the first time in a while.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Please tell me your trainer doesn't do this!
Any idiot can make you vomit or feel pain.
I have heard of trainers doing this 3 times in the last four months.
Does this make any sense to anyone?
I have no idea why a personal trainer would do such a thing. It is
irresponsible!
What a horrific way to introduce a young athlete to health and fitness.
It takes a skilled fitness professional to make you feel your first
workout but not immobilize you, and have it be the first step in a
progressive activity plan.
We, as trainers, have been given your trust and bodies to take care
of. This goes against everything we are supposed to be working for.
Trainers who do this need to get a reality check.
I don't care if that is the way they were trained. That is a cop out.
Plain and simple. You have the burden of care. Show some responsibility.
If you have a trainer, if they think this is good for you, please,
question them. Make them think, explain themselves, or fire them
and get a better trainer.
I could go on but I think I should nip this while it is still civil.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Get out, stretch those legs and have some fun!
I have heard of trainers doing this 3 times in the last four months.
Does this make any sense to anyone?
I have no idea why a personal trainer would do such a thing. It is
irresponsible!
What a horrific way to introduce a young athlete to health and fitness.
It takes a skilled fitness professional to make you feel your first
workout but not immobilize you, and have it be the first step in a
progressive activity plan.
We, as trainers, have been given your trust and bodies to take care
of. This goes against everything we are supposed to be working for.
Trainers who do this need to get a reality check.
I don't care if that is the way they were trained. That is a cop out.
Plain and simple. You have the burden of care. Show some responsibility.
If you have a trainer, if they think this is good for you, please,
question them. Make them think, explain themselves, or fire them
and get a better trainer.
I could go on but I think I should nip this while it is still civil.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Get out, stretch those legs and have some fun!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Group Fitness is Full! More on the Way for Youths!
Hello everyone.
I am just writing to say that the response has been overwhelming.
The first group is full!
The class filled in 5 days.
If you had intended to join this group it is already too late!
Couples joined, moms and daughters, brothers in law. It is quite a mix and already knowing over half these people it’s easy to see that we are going to have a lot of fun.
They are serious about their health but they always have a good time.
THE BEST PART
Due to the overwhelming response I have gotten more time and space for a second group. I have acquired the space at Studio 1 on Waverly Rd. It is two buildings past the MicMac Tavern. And no, we are not going there for supper!
I am looking to you to help me get members. People you would like to see get into better shape or who have been asking if you know of someone to help them get fit
If you know anyone who has one hour a week and is looking to get into great shape, please pass this on. They just might thank you for it. Often.
Not only that, I have a Referral Reward System. Get one person signed up and you get a free session. Two and it is two. Three and your free for the whole 3 months!!!
Really! Get three friends signed up and you are free. The four of you will get into great shape together, have fun and save 25%. Unless you don’t want to tell them! Don’t worry, I wont either!
It’s only $66 for the two months! Looking the best for Christmas or getting a huge jump on New Year’s resolutions, now is the time to start.
So if you've put it off and missed the first group here is your chance at the second.
Call me at 219-0072 or e-mail me at todd@altiusfitness.com
Thank you again for helping spread the word about this wonderful opportunity.
Have a great day!
In health,
Todd
I am just writing to say that the response has been overwhelming.
The first group is full!
The class filled in 5 days.
If you had intended to join this group it is already too late!
Couples joined, moms and daughters, brothers in law. It is quite a mix and already knowing over half these people it’s easy to see that we are going to have a lot of fun.
They are serious about their health but they always have a good time.
THE BEST PART
Due to the overwhelming response I have gotten more time and space for a second group. I have acquired the space at Studio 1 on Waverly Rd. It is two buildings past the MicMac Tavern. And no, we are not going there for supper!
I am looking to you to help me get members. People you would like to see get into better shape or who have been asking if you know of someone to help them get fit
If you know anyone who has one hour a week and is looking to get into great shape, please pass this on. They just might thank you for it. Often.
Not only that, I have a Referral Reward System. Get one person signed up and you get a free session. Two and it is two. Three and your free for the whole 3 months!!!
Really! Get three friends signed up and you are free. The four of you will get into great shape together, have fun and save 25%. Unless you don’t want to tell them! Don’t worry, I wont either!
It’s only $66 for the two months! Looking the best for Christmas or getting a huge jump on New Year’s resolutions, now is the time to start.
So if you've put it off and missed the first group here is your chance at the second.
Call me at 219-0072 or e-mail me at todd@altiusfitness.com
Thank you again for helping spread the word about this wonderful opportunity.
Have a great day!
In health,
Todd
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Complete Athletic Development for Youths
Hi,
There is no risk to promoting Brian Grasso's Complete Athletic
Development so early in the life of my blog. I have not seen it's
equal.
Brian is a Canadian who has been transplanted south of the border.
He has been flown around the world to talk about his ground
breaking techniques in Athletic Development.
If you already know what I am talking about you can order the
complete package here!
With testimonials like this you can see why he is so widely
respected:
"I have dedicated my life to the pursuit of learning how to best
develop athletic ability in young athletes. I have researched it,
applied it practically and now teach it to professionals worldwide.
The information offered in this collection is precisely what more
Trainers and Coaches need to hear."
Dr. Kwame Brown
Neuro-Scientist & Motor Skill Development Expert
and
"After reading Training Young Athletes - The Grasso Method by Brian
Grasso, there is no doubt who is leading the industry in youth
coaching. I have basically taken all my books on youth training and
put them in storage - The Grasso Method covers it all! I highly
encourage coaches and trainers of young athletes to make this book
your next purchase. You won't believe the difference it will make!"
Lee Taft
World Class Speed Coach
And here
is an mp3 audio testimonial from Richie Whall,Young Athlete Coach
from Cheshire, England.
Complete Athlete Development Home
You can see why I back it up as well. I've been following Brian's
work for over a year now and I can say I have never been led
astray. The information and his motivation is fantastic.
If you want to take your athletics to the next level, this is the
program for you!
Click here to get your copy right now.
You will NOT be disappointed.
Who's looking out for you?
In health,
Todd
Complete Athlete Development Home
There is no risk to promoting Brian Grasso's Complete Athletic
Development so early in the life of my blog. I have not seen it's
equal.
Brian is a Canadian who has been transplanted south of the border.
He has been flown around the world to talk about his ground
breaking techniques in Athletic Development.
If you already know what I am talking about you can order the
complete package here!
With testimonials like this you can see why he is so widely
respected:
"I have dedicated my life to the pursuit of learning how to best
develop athletic ability in young athletes. I have researched it,
applied it practically and now teach it to professionals worldwide.
The information offered in this collection is precisely what more
Trainers and Coaches need to hear."
Dr. Kwame Brown
Neuro-Scientist & Motor Skill Development Expert
and
"After reading Training Young Athletes - The Grasso Method by Brian
Grasso, there is no doubt who is leading the industry in youth
coaching. I have basically taken all my books on youth training and
put them in storage - The Grasso Method covers it all! I highly
encourage coaches and trainers of young athletes to make this book
your next purchase. You won't believe the difference it will make!"
Lee Taft
World Class Speed Coach
And here
is an mp3 audio testimonial from Richie Whall,Young Athlete Coach
from Cheshire, England.
Complete Athlete Development Home
You can see why I back it up as well. I've been following Brian's
work for over a year now and I can say I have never been led
astray. The information and his motivation is fantastic.
If you want to take your athletics to the next level, this is the
program for you!
Click here to get your copy right now.
You will NOT be disappointed.
Who's looking out for you?
In health,
Todd
Complete Athlete Development Home
Sunday, September 7, 2008
knock their socks off!
What can I say. You learn something new everyday. Sometimes it is the things that you thought you already knew.
I've been reading and researching what makes a successful weight loss plan for all these years.
Guess what I "found out".
Eat less, do more.
Yup. That's it.
Careful, what I mean by eat less is to reduce carbohydrates and make your meals smaller. Oh, you know what I mean by that.
I've bee there myself. Big heaping plate for supper. It feels good when you haven't had a lot to eat all day.
But if you eat more during the day, and more often, the less likely we will gorge at the end of the day.
Makes sense doesn't it?
Something weight loss guru Alwyn Cosgrove said stuck with me. Weight loss is simple, not easy!
We know what we have to do. It's all in black and white above. But why can't we do it. That's the hard part.
You are going to have to figure out what is stopping you from succeeding. That is something no personal trainer in the world can do: go inside your head.
We can quote statistics until we are blue in the face. But if a client isn't ready to make "the change", well, nothing is going to happen.
For instance: reduce carbohydrate intake.
Seems simple enough.
How many people do it? Take a look around at our collective girth. Not many, I'd say.
Simple, not easy.
Another: 1 hour of activity a day
Any takers?
And I mean any activity. Sure some are better than others depending on what your goals are but lets get the cart out in front of the horse shall we. Start by doing anything. Enjoy your activity.
Fine tune later.
So what are you going to do today?
What are you going to do this week?
There is a hint at what will make any plan successful. Looking ahead. Seems like an oversimplification. But I encourage you to look around.
See anyone else doing it?
Now go. Get out there. Knock their socks off and surprise yourself. You are capable of so much.
In health,
Todd
Check out the Complete Athletic Development for young athletes. The best system in the world for preparing your young athletes for competition and reducing injuries.
Go HERE!
Have a wonderful day!
I've been reading and researching what makes a successful weight loss plan for all these years.
Guess what I "found out".
Eat less, do more.
Yup. That's it.
Careful, what I mean by eat less is to reduce carbohydrates and make your meals smaller. Oh, you know what I mean by that.
I've bee there myself. Big heaping plate for supper. It feels good when you haven't had a lot to eat all day.
But if you eat more during the day, and more often, the less likely we will gorge at the end of the day.
Makes sense doesn't it?
Something weight loss guru Alwyn Cosgrove said stuck with me. Weight loss is simple, not easy!
We know what we have to do. It's all in black and white above. But why can't we do it. That's the hard part.
You are going to have to figure out what is stopping you from succeeding. That is something no personal trainer in the world can do: go inside your head.
We can quote statistics until we are blue in the face. But if a client isn't ready to make "the change", well, nothing is going to happen.
For instance: reduce carbohydrate intake.
Seems simple enough.
How many people do it? Take a look around at our collective girth. Not many, I'd say.
Simple, not easy.
Another: 1 hour of activity a day
Any takers?
And I mean any activity. Sure some are better than others depending on what your goals are but lets get the cart out in front of the horse shall we. Start by doing anything. Enjoy your activity.
Fine tune later.
So what are you going to do today?
What are you going to do this week?
There is a hint at what will make any plan successful. Looking ahead. Seems like an oversimplification. But I encourage you to look around.
See anyone else doing it?
Now go. Get out there. Knock their socks off and surprise yourself. You are capable of so much.
In health,
Todd
Check out the Complete Athletic Development for young athletes. The best system in the world for preparing your young athletes for competition and reducing injuries.
Go HERE!
Have a wonderful day!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
My mom is fitter than you!
Middle aged people are more likely to be active and enrolled in
extracurricular sports than youths are!
Really? Why is that?
Kids today are not encouraged to go outside. In fact we go to great
lengths to make sure they are not.
Video games. Drives everywhere. Computer time. No gym at school, my
personal fave.
As a result the parents of the kids I work with are often in better
shape than their kids.
Parents had complete athletic development by going outside and
pushing, pulling, jumping, climbing, skipping.
All those things go a long way to creating a very complete athletic
body that is capable of adapting and playing sports. Almost any
sport at that. And that is fun.
So if our kids are uncoordinated and winded, how much fun do you
think they are having?
The answer is NOT putting them on a treadmill, for too many reasons
to lay out here.
The answer is NOT joining a gym. Resistance is only one tiny aspect
of overall health.
That is why I train for complete athletic development. It doesn't
mean Olympic style. Just looking at the whole picture. Balance,
coordination, stamina, strength, health.
Look at all of it before we start trying to figure out what to do.
The difference in kids that I work with who get outside and play
and those who don't are staggering.
But don't just take it from me.
Check out what the experts have to say. Here is a blog I posted a
little while back.
GO TO MY BLOG HERE
It is still relevant now and I have a bad feeling that it will be
for a while.
Please read it. Check it out.
extracurricular sports than youths are!
Really? Why is that?
Kids today are not encouraged to go outside. In fact we go to great
lengths to make sure they are not.
Video games. Drives everywhere. Computer time. No gym at school, my
personal fave.
As a result the parents of the kids I work with are often in better
shape than their kids.
Parents had complete athletic development by going outside and
pushing, pulling, jumping, climbing, skipping.
All those things go a long way to creating a very complete athletic
body that is capable of adapting and playing sports. Almost any
sport at that. And that is fun.
So if our kids are uncoordinated and winded, how much fun do you
think they are having?
The answer is NOT putting them on a treadmill, for too many reasons
to lay out here.
The answer is NOT joining a gym. Resistance is only one tiny aspect
of overall health.
That is why I train for complete athletic development. It doesn't
mean Olympic style. Just looking at the whole picture. Balance,
coordination, stamina, strength, health.
Look at all of it before we start trying to figure out what to do.
The difference in kids that I work with who get outside and play
and those who don't are staggering.
But don't just take it from me.
Check out what the experts have to say. Here is a blog I posted a
little while back.
GO TO MY BLOG HERE
It is still relevant now and I have a bad feeling that it will be
for a while.
Please read it. Check it out.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Obesity Recognition Doesn't Happen?
Parents don't recognize obesity in their own children.
Believe it.
Here is an article referencing research into this area.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6451015.stm
So it has to be asked how active are our children? Are we over
protective?
It's a difficult place to be but it is necessary to look at what is
really happening.
Take a look at how much time our kids spend being active every day.
That doesn't mean playing sport. It doesn't mean winning
competitions.
Just being active.
We joke about being kicked out of the house until the street lights
came on. It shouldn't be. It might have been the best thing that
could have happened to us.
All that climbing, pushing, pulling, crawling and jumping we did as
children is extremely important. It was during some of our critical
development periods. That means we take those skills through life
and can use them in all of our activities.
That makes everything that much more fun.
That means we are more likely to do something active and stay
healthy.
So I ask again: How active are our children?
Believe it.
Here is an article referencing research into this area.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6451015.stm
So it has to be asked how active are our children? Are we over
protective?
It's a difficult place to be but it is necessary to look at what is
really happening.
Take a look at how much time our kids spend being active every day.
That doesn't mean playing sport. It doesn't mean winning
competitions.
Just being active.
We joke about being kicked out of the house until the street lights
came on. It shouldn't be. It might have been the best thing that
could have happened to us.
All that climbing, pushing, pulling, crawling and jumping we did as
children is extremely important. It was during some of our critical
development periods. That means we take those skills through life
and can use them in all of our activities.
That makes everything that much more fun.
That means we are more likely to do something active and stay
healthy.
So I ask again: How active are our children?
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Fighting Childhood Obesity Seminar
News Release
For Immediate Release
Contact – Todd DeWolf, 902-219-0072
Over 30% of Nova Scotian Children Considered Clinically Overweight
Local Statistics Show the Need for Dramatic and Immediate Solutions
July 18, 2008 – According to the American Obesity Association, more than 30% of United States children, youths and adolescents are currently overweight or obese. The same number was reported by StatsCan for adolescents aged 12 to 17. The rate was even higher in the Eastern Provinces.
Over the past three decades, the rate of childhood obesity has doubled while the incidence of obesity in teenagers has tripled.
The National Health Service in England also reports that the childhood overweight concern is the most common nutritional disorder effecting U.K.-based children and adolescents and one of the most prevalent problems seen by pediatricians.
According to pediatricians this upturn among adolescents is of particular concern because overweight or obese conditions in adolescence often persists into adulthood. We need to instill the understanding that daily physical activity is not the exception, it needs to be the rule and fun.
The International Youth Conditioning Association (IYCA) has begun providing solutions for local children and parents to help curb the rise of this national trend.
Todd DeWolf, the Youth Fitness Specialist through from the IYCA in the HRM, will be providing area families with education and a solution-oriented approach to physical fitness and nutrition.
On Friday August 15, 2008, all Datrmouth and Halifax area families are invited to a complementary information night at Graham's Grove Park, off of Lake Banook, on Braemar Dr. The event starts at 7:30pm.
Presenting will be Youth Fitness Specialist Todd DeWolf.
Please RSVP to Todd DeWolf at 902-219-0072. There is no cost for this event, but space is limited.
------------------------------
Todd DeWolf
Youth Fitness Professional
BSc, PTS, NWS
902-219-0072
ToddDeWolf.com
For Immediate Release
Contact – Todd DeWolf, 902-219-0072
Over 30% of Nova Scotian Children Considered Clinically Overweight
Local Statistics Show the Need for Dramatic and Immediate Solutions
July 18, 2008 – According to the American Obesity Association, more than 30% of United States children, youths and adolescents are currently overweight or obese. The same number was reported by StatsCan for adolescents aged 12 to 17. The rate was even higher in the Eastern Provinces.
Over the past three decades, the rate of childhood obesity has doubled while the incidence of obesity in teenagers has tripled.
The National Health Service in England also reports that the childhood overweight concern is the most common nutritional disorder effecting U.K.-based children and adolescents and one of the most prevalent problems seen by pediatricians.
According to pediatricians this upturn among adolescents is of particular concern because overweight or obese conditions in adolescence often persists into adulthood. We need to instill the understanding that daily physical activity is not the exception, it needs to be the rule and fun.
The International Youth Conditioning Association (IYCA) has begun providing solutions for local children and parents to help curb the rise of this national trend.
Todd DeWolf, the Youth Fitness Specialist through from the IYCA in the HRM, will be providing area families with education and a solution-oriented approach to physical fitness and nutrition.
On Friday August 15, 2008, all Datrmouth and Halifax area families are invited to a complementary information night at Graham's Grove Park, off of Lake Banook, on Braemar Dr. The event starts at 7:30pm.
Presenting will be Youth Fitness Specialist Todd DeWolf.
Please RSVP to Todd DeWolf at 902-219-0072. There is no cost for this event, but space is limited.
------------------------------
Todd DeWolf
Youth Fitness Professional
BSc, PTS, NWS
902-219-0072
ToddDeWolf.com
Monday, July 28, 2008
Functional v. Impressive
As a developing athlete function is more important than impressive.
Trust me, I have the ankles, unfortunately, to prove it.
At least physically. Mentally, well, we all would like to look
impressive.
I am more concerned with the ability to take what an athlete has
learned and apply it to the field of play. And young athletes need
the basics established first. The impressive will then be that much
easier, and therefore more impressive. Because you made it look easy.
I've run into this with my athletes who have been run four hours
during their practice. Impressive? Maybe.
But could they stop on a dime? No. If you want to be impressive on
the field, track, court, then you need "change of direction" speed.
What do you think the most important first component of that is?
Stopping.
Seems like a no brainer. Yet, have you been taught how to stop
properly?
Parents: How about your kids?
When stopping is coached and the athlete is able to change
directions faster than anyone else, then you have an incredible
advantage over the competition.
I recently enjoyed watching a local basketball tournament. Know
what impressed me? There was one athlete who, despite their
considerable size, was quicker than anyone else on the court, at
any size.
Now that was impressive!
But (I can hear it now) standing on a swiss ball looks impressive
in the gym.
So what?
Does it translate to the court? That should be gauge for the
training program.
Especially for developing athletes!
And that is what I want for my athletes. To have the skills to be
the best possible athlete they can be now and for the rest of their
athletic journey.
Trust me, I have the ankles, unfortunately, to prove it.
At least physically. Mentally, well, we all would like to look
impressive.
I am more concerned with the ability to take what an athlete has
learned and apply it to the field of play. And young athletes need
the basics established first. The impressive will then be that much
easier, and therefore more impressive. Because you made it look easy.
I've run into this with my athletes who have been run four hours
during their practice. Impressive? Maybe.
But could they stop on a dime? No. If you want to be impressive on
the field, track, court, then you need "change of direction" speed.
What do you think the most important first component of that is?
Stopping.
Seems like a no brainer. Yet, have you been taught how to stop
properly?
Parents: How about your kids?
When stopping is coached and the athlete is able to change
directions faster than anyone else, then you have an incredible
advantage over the competition.
I recently enjoyed watching a local basketball tournament. Know
what impressed me? There was one athlete who, despite their
considerable size, was quicker than anyone else on the court, at
any size.
Now that was impressive!
But (I can hear it now) standing on a swiss ball looks impressive
in the gym.
So what?
Does it translate to the court? That should be gauge for the
training program.
Especially for developing athletes!
And that is what I want for my athletes. To have the skills to be
the best possible athlete they can be now and for the rest of their
athletic journey.
State of the Industry
It's incredible to me that this is still happening.
Kids being trained like adults.
I regularly see young athletes who don't have enough basic strength yet being drilled hard on the field of play.
The basics need to be addressed and a solid base of skills, strength and balance needs to be fostered before being drilled.
And don't even get me started on trainers that think the workout isn't over until someone has vomited. Seriously? this is still going on?
Think about that when choosing a trainer. Are they their for the betterment of your young athlete or to make themselves look good. Pick the one that chooses the high road: Functional over impressive.
Just a beef to pick today. More coming down the pipe.
Have a great day.
In health,
Todd
Kids being trained like adults.
I regularly see young athletes who don't have enough basic strength yet being drilled hard on the field of play.
The basics need to be addressed and a solid base of skills, strength and balance needs to be fostered before being drilled.
And don't even get me started on trainers that think the workout isn't over until someone has vomited. Seriously? this is still going on?
Think about that when choosing a trainer. Are they their for the betterment of your young athlete or to make themselves look good. Pick the one that chooses the high road: Functional over impressive.
Just a beef to pick today. More coming down the pipe.
Have a great day.
In health,
Todd
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Why am I here?
I'm guessing you didn't sign up for something quite so esoteric as the title might suggest but a little background never hurts.
I come from an athletic background. I've experienced good and bad coaching.
Not just bad as in yell-at-em, but also bad through omission. Omitting the coaching (which is not yelling) or positive reinforcement. Assuming that kids "get it".
Kids want to hear good things, just like anyone else.
Young athletes are still developing physically and mentally. Yelling at them or running them "until they puke" is not going to foster an athletic lifestyle.
I'm sure that bad coaching is not what they set out to do. It's possible they think that whatever was done to them will work just fine.
Being negative works for a little while but soon performance becomes something about avoiding mistakes than taking it to the next level.
That's what hurts the most.
I've had good, bad and everything in between. But my first coach (hockey) was not at all helpful.
Here is the sum of my memories from playing hockey when I was 6 years old.
Getting yelled at for icing. I was 6. I do believe I quit hockey shortly thereafter and I haven't played a game since.
Nice.
Fortunately I moved on to basketball a few years later and had a pretty decent coach. Better yet, he was a good person. I learned to respect that and it made me want to play hard. And guess what, it was fun to.
This is a major factor in my involvement in coaching youth athletes now. Because I still see the bad. Believe it or not, some misguided coaches in my daughter's U6 soccer league won't even play our team, or the 2 other teams for that matter, because they are not "ready".
Ready? They are four, five, and six years old. They are ready to play and have fun at the drop of a hat. That's all the "ready" that any coach should be worried about at that age.
So why am I here?
I want to change the way kids are coached for the better. Take into account how mature they are, mentally and physically, and make it positive experience that will influence them and their success in life.
It's why I joined the IYCA and became a Youth Fitness Specialist.
It's a lot of fun and working with kids who want to be there. I want them to have a good time, and learn to become healthy active successful adults.
Is that too much to ask?
Enough about me. Some more fun stuff is coming your way soon. We'll chat later.
Have a good one.
I come from an athletic background. I've experienced good and bad coaching.
Not just bad as in yell-at-em, but also bad through omission. Omitting the coaching (which is not yelling) or positive reinforcement. Assuming that kids "get it".
Kids want to hear good things, just like anyone else.
Young athletes are still developing physically and mentally. Yelling at them or running them "until they puke" is not going to foster an athletic lifestyle.
I'm sure that bad coaching is not what they set out to do. It's possible they think that whatever was done to them will work just fine.
Being negative works for a little while but soon performance becomes something about avoiding mistakes than taking it to the next level.
That's what hurts the most.
I've had good, bad and everything in between. But my first coach (hockey) was not at all helpful.
Here is the sum of my memories from playing hockey when I was 6 years old.
Getting yelled at for icing. I was 6. I do believe I quit hockey shortly thereafter and I haven't played a game since.
Nice.
Fortunately I moved on to basketball a few years later and had a pretty decent coach. Better yet, he was a good person. I learned to respect that and it made me want to play hard. And guess what, it was fun to.
This is a major factor in my involvement in coaching youth athletes now. Because I still see the bad. Believe it or not, some misguided coaches in my daughter's U6 soccer league won't even play our team, or the 2 other teams for that matter, because they are not "ready".
Ready? They are four, five, and six years old. They are ready to play and have fun at the drop of a hat. That's all the "ready" that any coach should be worried about at that age.
So why am I here?
I want to change the way kids are coached for the better. Take into account how mature they are, mentally and physically, and make it positive experience that will influence them and their success in life.
It's why I joined the IYCA and became a Youth Fitness Specialist.
It's a lot of fun and working with kids who want to be there. I want them to have a good time, and learn to become healthy active successful adults.
Is that too much to ask?
Enough about me. Some more fun stuff is coming your way soon. We'll chat later.
Have a good one.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
ACL Injuries - how to prevent them
Occurrence of ACL Injuries in Youth Sports Hits All-Time High
More than 70% of injuries are preventable with proper training
More than 20,000 high school female athletes suffer a serious sports related knee injury each year in the United States.
Female athletes are up to six times more likely to experience a knee injury than male athletes of the same age.
Long considered a contact-based injury in which colliding athletes undergo a knee trauma due to the impact, recent research has shown that has many as 70% of ACL injuries are actually non-contact related.
This means that the vast majority of ACL injuries in young athletes are due to strength deficiencies or improper jumping and landing mechanics.
Well-designed strength and conditioning programs have shown to be the number one preventative agent in reducing the incidents of ACL injuries in young athletes.
The International Youth Conditioning Association (IYCA), through which I am a Youth Fitness Specialist, is a sport training association that works specifically with young athletes on strength and conditioning programs intended to reduce the risk of injuries incurred in sport as well as dramatically enhance the performance of on-field or on-court play.
My Youth Fitness Program, which is currently available to you in the HRM, currently trains local young athletes ranging from high school basketball and football players to recreational athletes.
Serving young athletes for 5 years, the athletes I've trained have experienced no ACL or other related knee injuries. Injury rates among IYCA trained athletes are significantly lower than other young athletes.
More than 50% of sport related injuries have been prevented by IYCA training programs.
For more information on the training program closest to you or training programs for your teams or young athletes, please call Todd DeWolf at 902-219-0072.
More than 70% of injuries are preventable with proper training
More than 20,000 high school female athletes suffer a serious sports related knee injury each year in the United States.
Female athletes are up to six times more likely to experience a knee injury than male athletes of the same age.
Long considered a contact-based injury in which colliding athletes undergo a knee trauma due to the impact, recent research has shown that has many as 70% of ACL injuries are actually non-contact related.
This means that the vast majority of ACL injuries in young athletes are due to strength deficiencies or improper jumping and landing mechanics.
Well-designed strength and conditioning programs have shown to be the number one preventative agent in reducing the incidents of ACL injuries in young athletes.
The International Youth Conditioning Association (IYCA), through which I am a Youth Fitness Specialist, is a sport training association that works specifically with young athletes on strength and conditioning programs intended to reduce the risk of injuries incurred in sport as well as dramatically enhance the performance of on-field or on-court play.
My Youth Fitness Program, which is currently available to you in the HRM, currently trains local young athletes ranging from high school basketball and football players to recreational athletes.
Serving young athletes for 5 years, the athletes I've trained have experienced no ACL or other related knee injuries. Injury rates among IYCA trained athletes are significantly lower than other young athletes.
More than 50% of sport related injuries have been prevented by IYCA training programs.
For more information on the training program closest to you or training programs for your teams or young athletes, please call Todd DeWolf at 902-219-0072.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
