Stew Smith Fitness News

An email from a military recruit in Wisconsin requested information on how to spice up running on the “dreadmill.” He states, “During the winter time it is nearly impossible to run any timed event due to the 2-3 ft of snow on the ground or ice on the roads. Is treadmill running going to hurt me running ability I am trying to build up for training.?”Yes, I know all about the dreadmill and do not like it compared to running on the ground as I have always felt that the machine did a bit of the work for me. However,...

Is it hazy, hot and humid in your area this summer? During the hottest months of the year, it is difficult to find the time to run or walk outside unless you exercise as the sun rises or sets. Even then, the humidity still soaks you like you were in a sauna and in most urban areas the air quality can be actually harmful to your lungs. Here is my answer to this week's cardio fitness question: It is so hot here in Texas - when I try to run outside it about kills me. Do you have other options...

Swimming with Fins - We Do This On Leg Days (Get Used to It)    Rocket Fins                        Jet Fins You will most likely see Rocket or Jet Fins when you check into any military special ops swimming / diving program. Get used to them! This week, I received a frequently asked question about swimming with fins. Swimming with fins during rigorous military training like BUD/S, Coast Guard HRSS, Air Force SpecWar, RECON/ MarSOC Training, Army Ranger / SF training, or many law enforcement SWAT programs is required in open water tests....

This week, a young Navy airman requested information on working on swimming while not having access to a pool. I get this one often as many people like to do the running and PT sections of my workouts, but lack swimming abilities or facilities. Here is what he writes: I am deploying in June to Afghanistan. I want to go to BUD/S when I get back. What should I do about swimming? 6-8 months in the desert. I don't think I will be getting in a pool during that. How do I train without losing a significant amount of time...

Every week, several people email me about cardiovascular options other than running. Running is a great cardio option however, if your knees are injured, you are overweight, or just need a break from running for a while, here are some non-impact cardio options that I prefer to do:Swimming Options Water is a domain that very forgiving to the joints of the body. If you are able to swim and not fearful of the water the workouts below are a great way to build up your heart and lungs as well as burn calories. There are quick and easy workouts as...