Stew Smith Fitness News

I often get emails and questions from people about certain programs, gadgets, fitness videos, GPS devices, music during workouts, heart rate monitors, pedometers, I-phone applications, you name it. I get to test much of this new fitness technology out and will either decline to write about it or give it a plug. As you know I love to use the TRX, the Perfect Pushup, the Stud Bar for pullups as well as other products that make my workout harder and more efficient. But - we all have to have our limits.If you have followed my decade of articles on fitness,...

1. How many times have you worked out in the last 30 days:None (weighted value of 1)3 times (weighted value of 2)10 times (weighted value of 3)More than 15 times (weighted value of 4) 2. If you were to take a 1 minute Pushup Test today, how many would you get?None (weighted value of 1)10-20 (weighted value of 2)30-50 times (weighted value of 3)More than 51-60+ (weighted value of 4) 3. If you were to take a 1 minute Situp test today, how many would you get?None (weighted value of 1)20-30 (weighted value of 2)31-60 times (weighted value of 3)greater...

This week several emails had to do with exercising outside now that the weather is starting to get nicer around the nation. Many questions were about yard work compared to exercise and other rigorous activities common to the Spring Season. I have found that the caloric expenditure in many of these outdoor activities is comparable to running, walking, and even calisthenics /weight training. The problem that many people face with seasonal "hobbies" is that a good part of the year little or no physical activity gets accomplished. That is where I come in!Starting a fitness plan HAS to eventually become...

America's children are overweight. Why? Because WE are! Two-thirds (66%) of Americans are overweight according to the Centers for Disease Control/Prevention, with 15-30% of the children either overweight or dangerously close to being overweight. That means that nearly 200 million Americans fall into the overweight category. We are setting a horrible example for our children.According to a study conducted by Weight Watchers International Inc. and the American Health Foundation, 25% of American children are now officially overweight, and the youngest are especially at risk. These extra pounds are more than just a passing phase; another ADA study suggests that half...

If you are a true beginner to exercise or have not exercised in decades, starting a health and fitness program is a daunting task. During your quest for longevity, try not to change too much in your life too quickly. Many people, in their search for health make broad resolutions that require several different life style changes. Quitting smoking, starting an exercise program, and dieting all in the same week can be extremely challenging. Tackling any ONE of the above is challenging enough. If you have any of the above vices or others, you may want to try one step...