The 3-minute step physical fitness test measures your aerobic (cardiovascualr) fitness level based on how quickly your heart rate returns to normal after exercise -also check out the Pushup Physical Fitness Test and the Crunch Physical Fitness Test. Equipment Needed: Stop watch A friend to help you keep count 12 aerobic bench A metronome - if you don’t have one, use the free version at www.MetronomeOnline.com Goal:Step on and off the bench for a whole 3 minutes, keeping a consistent... Read Full Story

Crunch physical fitness test measures abdominal strength and endurance - also check out the Pushup Physical Fitness Test and the 3 Minute Step Physical Fitness Test. Equipment Needed: Stop watch or timer Ruler A friend to count and time you Goal: Do as many crunches as you can do in one minute. Execution: Lie down on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor and your heels about 18 inches from your buttock. Place your arms at your sides, palms down and fingertips next to... Read Full Story

The pushup physical fitness test measures strength and endurance in your chest, shoulders and triceps. Equipment Needed: Stop watch or timer A friend to keep count and time you Goal: Do as many pushups as you can in one minute. Execution: Men do a traditional pushup position and women use a modified pushup position. Do as many as possible in one minute time period. If you need to rest for a few seconds in the one minute time period, only rest in the “up” position. Scoring: Ratings for... Read Full Story

Physical fitness tests are great tools to help you reach your fitness goals and are also a great way to see if you are making any progress. 3 Physical Fitness Tests: The Pushup Physical Fitness Test The Crunch Physical Fitness Test The 3-Minute Step Physical Fitness Test Don’t freight if you do not score as high as you would like to on the physical fitness tests, just focus on improving your scores periodically. And remember, as long as you are improving, your fitness plan is working... Read Full Story

So what is the serving size for cereals and how do I pick one that is healthy for me? It depends on the cereal because some cereals are more calorie-dense than others. For instance, the recommended serving of a fluffy or puffy cereal is larger (11/4 cup) than those of the nugget or cluster kind (2/3 cup).  If you are watching your weight have a cereal with 150-200 calories per serving. If you are snacking have a cereal with 110 or fewer calories per serving. You should choose a cereal... Read Full Story

No matter your age or your flexibility, you can learn how to stretch properly. Stretching should be done daily, whether you exercise daily or not. Here are the benefits of following a regular stretching program: Enhanced muscular coordination Increased energy levels Reduced muscle tension Increase your range of motion Increased circulation of the blood to various parts of the body Decrease muscle soreness Aid in workout recovery Ensures muscles and tendons are in good working order... Read Full Story

The foods I will be listing are also known as power foods - they are a combination of low calories and high nutrients (foods that will keep you feeling very satisfied). The best part about power foods is that since they are so healthy for you can eat more before reaching your calorie limit. Adding just a few power foods can make a big difference in your calorie intake and appetite. Here are some good power foods to choose from: Grains Oatmeal Whole wheat bread Whole wheat cereal Whole... Read Full Story

Stretching is one of the most important parts of your exercise routine. Stretching actually prevents injuries, enhances post-workout recovery and decreases soreness. First you need to know that you should never stretch before your workout, but after - the reason for this is because your muscles are the warmest and least prone to injury from improper stretching. Working out loosens your muscles and joints, preparing them to be stretched. This should be the order of your workout routine... Read Full Story

Everyone probably knows that stress ages us because of the spikes in free radicals, causing inflammation and cell damage. Stress not only affects the appearance of our skin, it is also linked to serious health conditions such as cancer. Follow the home skin care tips listed below to decrease the effects of stress. The result will be a more radiant, healthy complexion. For a 4 step skin care guide for glowing skin read the following post: Best Skin Care Routine for Glowing Skin. Home... Read Full Story

Here is a simple 4 step daily skin care routine to keep your skin glowing. For tips on skin care to decrease the effects stress has on your skin see the following post, 10 step skin care guide for healthier skin. Tips on skin care #1 - Wash morning and night with a gentle, basic cleanser such as Cetaphil or Purpose Soap. Tips on skin care #2 - Apply and SPF 30 daytime moisturizer. If you are prone to breakouts, choose an SPF that in non greasy. Olay has a great SPF daytime moisturizer... Read Full Story