Exercise and Fitness Archive

Plyometric training involves short, intense bursts of activity that target fast-twitch muscle fibers in the lower body that generate power for increased speed and jumping height. Doing plyometric exercises can boost strength, power, and agility.

Fatigue can affect your body, mood, focus, and daily life. Test your knowledge of common causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and when fatigue may signal an underlying health problem.

Physical activity, even as little as 15 minutes a day of moderate-intensity exercise, is linked with a lower risk of stroke and death in people with atrial fibrillation.

Mindfulness is the process of paying attention to one’s surroundings with an attitude of acceptance. Mindfulness practices can anchor people’s consciousness moment by moment, helping them to ease stress and anxiety and to sustain attention. Mindfulness practices can be done while sitting, walking, and eating.

Located at the back of the upper arm, the triceps muscles constitute about two-thirds of its muscle mass. Often overlooked by people in favor of training the more-visible biceps or deltoid muscles, the triceps are integral to performing everyday tasks, such as heavy lifting and reaching.

The bird dog exercise is performed on the hands and knees. It involves extending one arm and the leg on the opposite side simultaneously. This exercise is highly effective at strengthening the core, the group of muscles in the abdomen, back, pelvis, and hips that stabilize the spine.

Social media influencers blame “high cortisol” for an array of problems, from stubborn belly fat to poor sleep. But true cortisol disorders are rare and most people have no evidence that abnormal cortisol levels are driving such problems.

Building strength requires progressive resistance training two to three times a week, challenging major muscle groups. Expect strength gains resulting from nerves more effectively recruiting existing muscle within two weeks and visible muscle growth after eight to 12 weeks. Results also depend on consuming adequate calories and protein.

The navigation sport orienteering combines map and compass reading with exercise. It’s a fun way to get outside and get some exercise — and it may even help fight cognitive decline.

Summer is a great time to take a hike, but it’s essential to make sure you’re prepared for the weather and conditions where you are. Hiking safely and planning ahead will make your trek more enjoyable.