2nd Wind Exercise Equipment Blog

Running may help prevent running to the bathroom at night, at least for men. Interrupting an otherwise perfectly good night of sleep, many older men head for the bathroom multiple times at night, due to benign prostatic hyperplasia. An enlarged prostate gland can cause lower urinary tract symptoms including difficult and frequent urination, problems familiar to many older men. However, exercising men suffer prostrate problems less as a group than sedentary men do.

According to new research, physical activity is inversely related to prostate problems-good news for all you middle-aged and older runners. Several thousand men aged 40 to 75 at baseline were observed. At the end of the observation period data was collected on the incidence of prostate surgery and prostate symptoms and correlated with exercise habits. Once again, exercisers are the winners with an incidence of prostate problems 25% lower than that of sedentary men. The list of good reasons to run just keeps getting longer.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:30 PM | Exercise and Prostate Problems | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

If you ever need additional reassurance that running is good for what ails you or what someday may ail you: the evidence is everywhere. New research shows that even one 45-minute session on a treadmill lowers blood pressure significantly. Even more impressive, the results last for at least 24 hours.
This study put 11 very out-of-shape men-overweight, sedentary, with moderately high blood pressure, aged 49 to 67-to the test. Systolic blood pressure was reduced during the entire 24-hour period following the run. Give yourself a pat on the back for maintaining an exercise habit and inspiring others to get moving.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:19 PM | Even One Run Lowers Blood Pressure | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Add another one to your list of the benefits of exercise. One of the most uplifting and inspiring moments of 1999, the past decade, even the last 100 years, was the recent vision of Lance Armstrong winning what is probably the most grueling of all athletic events, the Tour de France. Armstrong's win came on the heels of diagnosis, surgery, and chemotherapy for testicular cancer and throughout it all Armstrong kept cycling.

With over eight million cancer survivors, researchers are now studying quality of life issues for patients in treatment. Overwhelmingly studies have concluded that exercise has a positive effect on physical and functional well being and side effects of treatment, as well as psychological and emotional well being of cancer patients. For someone who has spent a lifetime being athletic, having cancer could have the double blow of taking health and exercise away from what you take for granted in life. Not only does that not need to be the case, but continuing to exercise can help cancer patients in multiple ways

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:16 PM | Exercise and Cancer Treatment | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

So, you run for fitness, eat right, and try to keep work stress to a minimum? Don't stop. Your body won't forgive you. Even if you used to be a runner, your heart does not have such a long memory. It's far more interested in what you're doing right now. New research, gleaning more pearls from the Framingham Heart Study, studied the difference in mortality between two observational periods separated by 16 years. Estimates of physical activity during the earlier period were compared to estimates of physical activity in the later period, and overall mortality.

The men and women who were very active in the second period had a much lower risk of dying compared to those who were the least active in the same period. How active either group was in the earlier period didn't make a hoot of difference. The good news for active people who stick with exercise is that you carry your benefits into the future as long as you remain active. The very good news is for those who haven't been active-it's never too late to start

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:09 PM | Don't Quit, Now or Later | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Does exercise increase the risk of spontaneous abortion during the first trimester of pregnancy? Not according to a study by James Clapp, III, M.D., at the University of Vermont in Burlington. There was no evidence of an increase in any kind of abnormality, compared to a control group of healthy women who did not work out regularly.

In early pregnancy, intense activity could cause changes in heart response, temperature regulation, and hormone balance. Some experts feared these could increase the risk of spontaneous abortion, and other undesirable events. Clapp found no grounds for these fears.

There’s no evidence to suggest that women in good health who are already enjoying an exercise program shouldn’t continue their activity during early pregnancy. They should be guided by common sense, and modify the duration and intensity of exercise according to individual circumstances and their doctor’s advice. As long as medical checkups are satisfactory, exercise can be continued.

"Fit and active women have toned and healthy bodies, and are therefore better prepared to withstand the challenges of pregnancy," adds American Running Editorial Board Member Kim Edward LeBlanc, M.D.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:02 PM | Exercise Doesn't Hurt During Early Pregnancy | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Teenagers who stay active, participating in anything from football to skateboarding, are less likely than their sedentary peers to smoke, drink or take other health risks, new research shows.

Much has been made about the importance of exercise in fighting the swelling problem of childhood obesity. But just as important are the effects regular physical activity can have on kids’ behavior, according to Dr. Penny Gordon-Larsen, the lead author of the new study.

There are clearly benefits to exercise other than weight control, said Gordon-Larsen, an assistant professor of nutrition at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

And kids who spend their free time in front of the TV are missing out on those benefits, she added.

"It’s clear that there can be adverse effects of watching TV." Gordon-Larsen said, pointing to research that has linked violent or sexual content in television shows to kids’ behavior.

But beyond whatever effects media may have, she said, children who spend their free time on the couch miss out on the socialization, team work and skill development that comes with being active.

Among the nearly 12,000 middle- and high-school students in her study, those who were physically active were less likely than their couch-potato peers to smoke, drink, use drugs or have sex. Also, they often had higher self-esteem and better grades.

"Across the board, children who engaged in any kind of activity were better off than kids who watched a lot of TV." said Gordon-Larsen.

The findings, which are published in Pediatrics, also show that activity does not simply mean traditional sports.

Kids who favored "alternative" activities, like skateboarding, had higher self-esteem and were less prone to taking health risks, Gordon-Larsen pointed out.

The bottom line for parents, according to the researcher, is that they should encourage their kids to pursue whatever physical activities they happen to enjoy.

If mom and dad can handle a skateboard themselves, even better. Teens in the study who engaged in sports and exercise with their parents were particularly likely to stay on the straight and narrow.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 03:38 PM | Physically Active Teens Stay Out of Trouble | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Today, 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment is one of the top five fitness dealers in the USA with a number of branded manufacturers on their supplier list including Stairmaster, Trimline and Life Fitness. In its first few years the company made money by selling used equipment but it has now become one of the largest fitness distributors in the Midwest. Second Wind Exercise Equipment, founded in 1992 by Dick Enrico, distributes elliptical trainers, treadmills, exercise bikes and home gyms from 65 retail stores throughout seven states.

Life Fitness exercise equipment tends to get mostly very good reviews by consumers. Life Fitness is popular due to the commercial quality of their exercise equipment, in particular the exercise bikes. These come with many features that are usually only found in gym equipment. Unfortunately this quality comes at a fairly hefty price.

Trimline manufacture mid-range treadmills mainly for use in the home. They also produce elliptical trainers. Trimline treadmills range from the cheaper low-end retail machines to the slightly pricey high-end machines. These tend to stand out from the rest in these categories for two main reasons: more features for your money and stability of the design. Prices range from $600 to $15,000.

Much of their revenue comes from distributing exercise equipment to corporations, rehab centers, universities, apartment complexes and hotels. They also sell new or used exercise equipment so you can find most of the above brands at discounted prices. Prices tend to be mid-range with residential equipment ranging from $350 to $2,500.

To find more information on the Second Wind Exercise Equipment store locations, range of equipment or contact details visit their website.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 03:34 PM | 2nd Wind exercise equipment - treadmills and home gyms | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2nd Wind Exercise Equipment has great offers to help HealthPartners members get and stay fit. Show your HealthPartners ID at any 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment location to get preferred pricing and deep discounts on home exercise equipment.

Each 2nd Wind sales consultant is a certified personal trainer who can help you make the right home exercise purchase. They can help you figure out your fitness goal and find the right equipment to fit your budget. You can even try out the equipment right there in the showroom.

When you purchase any equipment from 2nd Wind, you can get a free consultation with one of their personal trainers. If you like that, you can hire a 2nd Wind personal trainer to come to your home. HealthPartners members save $10 per visit—just by showing your HealthPartners ID card.

For locations and more information, visit the 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment web site.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 03:07 PM | HealthPartners Offers 2nd Wind Discount | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2nd Wind Exercise Equipement's Commericial Division adds new Clients.

Age Well Center - Omaha, NE
Marysville Health & Fitness - Marysville, KS
Marks Gym/ Tropic Tan - St. Louis Park, MN
Excelsior Bay Gables - Excelsior, MN
178 Summit Apartments - St. Paul, MN
Highland Ridge Apartments - St. Paul, MN
Hilton Garden Inn - Bloomington, MN
MCF Oak Parks Heights - Stillwater, MN
MGIC Corporation - MIlwaukee, WI
The Grove Community Center - Inver Grove Heights, MN
Grand Pre East Apartments - Little Canada, MN
Woodside Middle School - Des Moines, IA
Iowa Central Community College - Fort Dodge, IA
Dr. Mark Schmall - Rock Island, IA
East High School - Des Moines, IA

Posted by Dick Enrico at 12:47 PM | New Commercial Clients | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Now, those who know me know that while I love a bargain I am not loathe to pay a full price for an item that it worth it. BUT....I must be brutally honest when I say that when I first saw the prices on the equipment at 2nd Wind I was a bit taken aback. I mean I have two boys to keep in shoes...and a dog who LOVES her special formula dog food. I really can't afford the high end prices this establishment has on their wares.

Honestly, while I did think the prices were high I spoke to a friend who is "into" working out and he assured me that although the prices are more than you find at the local conglomerate down the road, the products offered at 2nd wind are of great quality and actually are a bargain at the prices they have listed. So I swallowed my fear of stickers with numbers higher than my address and checked out some more of their merchandise.

While I eventually found that most of the merchandise isn't geared for "casual" exercisers like me, they are in fact great quality items and I can see after some checking out that they do in fact fill a need for some...just not for me.

So I urge you to check out 2nd Wind being cognizant of the fact that the merchandise is in fact a bit expensive. And if you do, drop me a line and let me know what you purchased.......I am always eager to hear what others see that I have maybe missed! happy shopping and have a great time with your new exercise equipment...me, I think I'll stick with my good old jump rope! ;-)

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:32 PM | 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment...for the serious exerciser out there | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Rick Viehland joins the 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment's Commercial Division. Viehland will work with commercial clients in the St. Louis area.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 01:26 PM | Commercial Team Expands to St. Louis | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Pacemaster treadmills offer the complete fitness and exercise solution. Pacemaster’s unique interactive programming not only evaluates users current fitness level, but can also help users to set goals and design custom programs to make those goals a reality.

Pacemaster treadmills offer a range of features. This includes real time feedback/monitoring and motivation on time, distance, calories and heart rate. Pacemaster treadmill offers variable intensity warm up and cool down with the ability to change intensity levels during workout. Pacemaster treadmill assesses the current fitness level of the user, compares it to the fitness standards and allows the user to track the progress. These features give Pacemaster treadmills an intelligence that no other treadmills can beat.

Pacemaster treadmills are built to last for years and years. They combine state-of-the-art workout technology with superior components and construction. Pacemaster provides users with the safest and most durable treadmill available.

The premiere series of Pacemaster treadmill incorporates 5 models: Pacemaster ProSelect treadmill, Pacemaster ProElite treadmill, Pacemaster Bronze Basic treadmill, Pacemaster Silver Select treadmill and Pacemaster Platinum ProClub treadmill.

Pacemaster ProSelect treadmill offers a 2.75HP motor, 180 lbs user weight capacity, running surface up to 20" x 50.5", incline up to 15%, maximum speed up to 11 mph, 9 preset programs, 4 user programs and 3 HRC programs to bring variations in the workouts. It offers a warranty of 5 years on motor, 3 years on parts and one year on labor. This treadmill model costs around $2295.

Pacemaster ProElite treadmill offers a 3HP motor, maximum speed of 12 mph, incline up to 15% and running area up to 20" x 58". This model of Pacemaster treadmill costs over $2000. Pacemaster ProElite treadmill can accommodate runners up to 350 pounds. Features 17 different running programs, four of which are heart rate programs, nine are presets and remaining 4 programs are for manual customization required by users. This Pacemaster treadmill offers a ton of displayed information which can confuse the novice runner at the time of initial use.

Pacemaster Bronze Basic treadmill offers a 3HP motor, maximum speed up to 11 mph, incline up to 15% and a maintenance-free whisper-quiet 10,000-mile texglide belt with a lubricant-treated underside that reduces friction to extend the life of the belt. This model provides all the performance that users need in a straight forward and easy to use format. Four LED windows in this Pacemaster treadmill provide users with constant performance feedback throughout the workout. It offers lifetime warranty on frame, 12 years warranty on motor, 5 years warranty on parts and 1 year warranty on labor. This model costs around $1699.

Pacemaster Silver Select treadmill features sophisticated electronics and programming options that mark it as incredible. This model has 7 pre-programmed workouts with adjustable intensities and times, 4 heart rate programs and 2 user custom programs allowing variations for lots of variety in workouts. This model provides 3HP motor, running surface up to 20 by 54 inches, maximum speed up to 11 mph, incline up to 15% and 350 lbs user weight capacity. It offers a lifetime warranty for frame, 12 years on parts and 1 year on labor.

For the serious runners and for those who want decade-long reliability, Pacemaster Platinum ProClub treadmill is available with an unparalleled warranty for residential use. This treadmill model provides 3HP motor, running surface up to 20" x 60", maximum speed of 12 mph, incline up to 15% and 400 lbs user weight capacity. For light institutional it offers warranty of 2 years on parts and 1 year on labor. For residential use the warranty is of 12 years on motor, 10 years on parts and 1 year on labor. This treadmill is designed for small commercial gyms, hotels and residential use. This model of Pacemaster treadmill costs $2699.

Pacemaster treadmill has its cutting edge technology focused to meet the fitness goals of users. Combination of technology and programs has marked it incredible and meets all the performance requirements of users during workouts.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:45 PM | Pacemaster Treadmill Intelligence | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Why do some men and women, in the effort to improve their fitness, still resist weightlifting? Here are some motivating ideas for building weightlifting and helping you understand why this method of exercise is so very important to your success…

1. Lift weights to lose fat: One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting an exercise and nutrition program is not including a weightlifting program with their cardiovascular exercise and low-fat eating regimen. This is unfortunate because when we cut calories without exercise, we can lose muscle as well as fat. And when you lose muscle, your body becomes a lot less efficient at burning fat. However, when you gain muscle, you can actually condition your body to burn fat more efficiently...24 hours a day!

2. You feel strong and fit: It's a great feeling when you look in the mirror during your workouts and see your back muscles, biceps, shoulders, and legs flexing. If you're unsure about proper lifting technique, hire a personal trainer for a few sessions. The money you invest is well worth it, as is the time and energy you put towards an effective program. And weightlifting can definitely increases your confidence. It's a wonderful feeling to feel strong, especially after a workout. You look forward to looking in the mirror, and actually like what you see.

3. You have more energy: Even if you're just starting out with a few basic weightlifting exercises, very quickly you won't believe how fantastic you'll feel. Instead of making an excuse to skip your workout, you'll make excuses to do just one more set. Plus, with the excess fat you're going to lose, there will be less of you to lug around and therefore less fatigue.

4. You’ll finally see the results: Knowing what to do makes all the difference. Many people go to the gym for months – even years – and wonder why they're not getting any results. Well, it's because they're doing the same darn workout every time.

This is a critical point: you can either quit out of frustration, or you can become a sponge for knowledge and get some help. Get your hands on fitness magazines, books, the trainers at the gym, ask other successful exercisers, or hire a coach. Learn what you need to do to make your program successful. Acquiring the knowledge and getting help is all you need to get hooked.

At first you may question what you're doing: are you going to get too big, are you wasting your time, how do you know this will work? But then you see other men and women who have been weightlifting for years and they look terrific. Here's the telltale sign that your program is working: you start to see definition and feel firmness in muscles you never thought you had.

5. You won't get bored: I suspect many people don't lift weights because they think it will be boring. Just remember to change your routine every 3-4 weeks to keep things fresh and your body responding to your training. Change the reps, the sets, the weight, the rest period, the exercise order, etc. Training only gets boring if you allow it to.

6. You have everyday, functional strength: Weight training does wonders to help you with activities of daily living: Housework, yard work, moving furniture, and carrying bags of groceries without gasping for air and pooping out within minutes. If you have a medical condition such as arthritis or multiple sclerosis, lifting weights can be a godsend. You can rely on weightlifting to keep you strong where once all your strength was gone.

7. You have a stronger back: Juggling a 30-pound toddler and a few bags of groceries while pulling out the stroller can put your back in a compromising position. When you lift weights, you strengthen your upper and lower body, which reduces strain on your back when you're forced to lift heavy loads. Plus, don't you think it would feel really good to walk around knowing that your back is as tight and toned as your legs?

8. You can train at home: Have you been putting off getting started with your weightlifting program because you felt you had to belong to a gym? You can implement a very effective weightlifting program no matter where you are. Invest in some dumbbells and an adjustable bench and you're set. Get some exercise videos or books that focus on strength training; now you can lift weights on your own anytime you like.

9. You can get rid of pain: Do you have limited range of motion in your joints? A bad knee? A wrenched neck? Bum shoulder? Weightlifting promotes strength in your joints so you have ease of movement. That old knee problem improves enough for you to can go hiking in the mountains for days without pain. No pain, more endurance. You can do more outdoorsy things - and have fun while doing them!

10. You build stronger bones: Bone responds to weightlifting the same way that muscles do, by becoming stronger and denser. Building strong bones can be the best defense against osteoporosis. You're more active, more mobile, and without lower back pain. And age doesn't matter; you can start when you're 65 and still experience tremendous benefits from a weightlifting program. IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO START A WEIGHTLIFTING PROGRAM!

Posted by Dick Enrico at 03:18 PM | Top Ten Reasons to Get Hooked on Weightlifting | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

No, you didn't misread the title. Believe it or not, there are some people who are looking to put pounds on. They want, maybe even need, to gain weight. Since most people spend much of their lives figuring out ways to shed their extra pounds, the concept of underweight may be difficult to comprehend. However, if you're a part of the minority population that has tried everything they can to gain weight, you know that it can be just as difficult for underweight people to add pounds as it is for overweight people to take them off.

Who Needs To Gain Weight?

The term underweight is generally used to describe two kinds of people: those whose weight is considered below normal, but are still healthy, and those whose low weights are cause for significant health concerns. The latter group is at high risk for respiratory diseases, tuberculosis, digestive disorders and some cancers, and women are more likely to become infertile or give birth to unhealthy babies. A consultation with their physicians is recommended for these people before they embark on a program to gain weight.

Individuals in the former category may range from young football players who wish to create a stronger presence on the field to older adults living ordinary lives. These people usually have a genetic predisposition to thinness, and it is important that they keep this in mind when implementing strategies for gaining weight; they won't be able to change their physiology, but they may be able to enhance it.

Nutrition Strategies

A useful rule of thumb is that in order to gain 1 pound of body weight per week, you should consume an additional 500 calories per day above the amount you typically consume. This number varies from person to person (depending on such factors as weight and metabolism), but you get the idea: Eating more than normal is a must if you want to gain weight.

Boost your calories by consistently consuming three larger-than-normal meals a day plus two or more snacks during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Try to eat foods that are high in calories, but remember to stay away from saturated fats such as cheese, beef, butter and bacon. It's best to stick to a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet that you modify to include larger quantities.

This also applies to your intake of protein. Many athletes seeking to gain muscle use protein powders and amino acid supplements. This isn't necessary if you eat the recommended amount of dietary protein (15 percent to 20 percent of daily calories), which is less expensive than buying supplements. To be sure that you are sensibly increasing your caloric intake, make an appointment with a registered dietitian who can help you plan your meals.

The Key

In order to ensure that the extra calories you are eating don't simply turn into gained pounds of fat, it is crucial that you make strength training your primary form of exercise. If you rely only on eating calorie-dense foods to gain weight, you will only gain fat — not likely the change you are looking for. Strength training will convert the extra calories you consume into muscle growth that will enhance your appearance as well as your performance in daily activities and athletics.

Be Patient

Putting on weight can be a hard and often slow task, but if you consistently eat large meals and participate in strength training, the payoff should be worth both the wait and the work

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:46 PM | Putting on the Pounds | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Heart Rate Training Maximizes Performance
During exercise, the heart beat, or pulse rate, is a valuable, objective gauge of intensity level-the more vigorous the workout, the faster the heart must pump to deliver oxygen-rich blood to hard-working muscles. Research shows that exercising in target heart rate zones is the best way to improve cardiovascular health while preventing under-training which minimizes results, as well as over-training and risking injury or burnout. Essentially, it amounts to smarter, more effective workouts.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that cardiovascular exercise be performed at 55% to 90% of one's theoretical maximum heart rate (TMHR), according to one's goals and fitness level. TMHR is calculated as 220-age.

Typically, most people are able to sustain approximately 65-85% TMHR during a standard exercise session. So for a 40-year-old, TMHR is180 beats per minute (220-40), and corresponding workout intensity levels range from 117-153 bpm (65-85%).

Technology boosts heart rate monitoring
Heart rate can be measured manually by palpating an artery and counting the beats. But even simpler is using a heart monitor, which consists of a strap worn around the chest that picks up the heart's electric signal and a wristband receiver that displays the number of beats. Quality monitors are nearly as accurate as clinical EKGs.

The first heart rate monitor was developed in 1977 as a training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team. During the 1980s, heart rate monitoring became more popular with athletes, as they saw its effectiveness in enhancing their performance. Endurance athletes like five-time Ironman Triathlon winner Dave Scott attributes his best performances to the "routine scrutiny" of his monitor. And numerous other elite runners, competitive Tour de France cyclists and even Olympic athletes have attested to better overall results due to heart rate training.

Fitness enthusiasts caught on as well and began donning them during the 1990s. According to Edmund R. Burke, Ph.D., former professor, Olympic coach and author of numerous health and fitness books, including Precision Heart Rate Training, "Training and competing with a heart rate monitor is like having a portable, full-time coach attached to your body."

Advances in fitness equipment
Premium cardiovascular machines feature technology that facilitates accurate heart rate monitoring using telemetry or hand sensors. With telemetry, exercisers wear a chest strap, and the machine wirelessly picks up the heart's signal and displays the heart rate on the console. Some manufacturers also offer hand sensors that exercisers grip to get a heart rate reading. But because muscle contraction interference can cause erratic readings with hand sensors, telemetry is generally more accurate.

Some fitness equipment also offers pre-designed programs that take the guesswork out of heart rate training by keeping exercisers at predetermined heart rate zones. For example, in a workout that requires 80% TMHR, the machine picks up the heart rate from the exerciser's chest strap and automatically varies resistance levels so the user maintains the proper intensity.

The advantage is that exercisers don't have to continually monitor and readjust to ensure that they are at the appropriate level because the machine does it for them. These programs also provide valuable variety, enhance motivation and help improve performance.

HeartLogic™ Intelligence breakthrough
While heart rate interactive programs are beneficial, Octane Fitness' exclusive HeartLogic™ Intelligence on its total-body elliptical cross-trainers has created breakthroughs in training. It has set the standard for the most efficient, effective pre-designed cardiovascular exercise available today.

HeartLogic™ Intelligence workouts offer more than just steady-state workouts where a consistent TMHR is maintained throughout, such as 65% or 80%. Included here are interval heart rate programs, which vary intensity levels within the workout to incinerate calories and boost fitness quickly. Studies have shown that interval training, in which intensity changes throughout such as from 65% to 85%, is the best way to maximize caloric expenditure and enhance endurance.

A push of a button transforms ordinary workouts into results-driven, motivating experiences with the following programs:

Fat Burn
Steady state workout at 65% TMHR to optimize the amount of fat burned versus carbohydrates. Great for beginners, recovery or low intensity days.
Cardio
Maximizes cardiovascular benefits by challenging exercisers to maintain a steady state of 80% TMHR throughout. Good to burn calories and develop endurance.
Heart Rate Interval
Consists of two-minute intervals of 70% and 80% TMHR. After two minutes, resistance increases automatically to bring exerciser to next interval; when target heart rate is achieved, a new two-minute interval begins. Exercisers can adjust individual intensity at any time during the workout. Builds endurance and helps boost caloric expenditure.
Heart Rate Hill
Series of two-minute hill intervals that increase from 65% to 75% to 85% TMHR. After two minutes, resistance increases or decreases to bring exerciser to next interval; when target heart rate is reached, a new interval begins. Exercisers can adjust individual intensity at any time during the workout. Ideal for all individuals looking for results and a challenging workout that flies by.
Heart Rate Speed Interval
Combines one-minute intervals of 65% and 85% TMHR with changing speeds; when going to 85%, exercisers are prompted to increase pace to 60 rpm; going down to 65% requires 40 rpm. Exercisers can adjust individual intensity at any time during the workout. The one-minute sessions enable exercisers to blast through more intervals with greater variety for a fast-paced, rigorous workout. The ultimate training challenge for athletes, race preparation or an all-out workout.
Octane Fitness programs recommend target heart rates based on the standard formula of 220-age, but uniquely, they facilitate ultimate customization by enabling exercisers to personalize these numbers during any part of any workout. So, for instance, in the example of the 40-year-old, 65% TMHR is 117 bpm and 85% TMHR is 153 bpm. If he feels particularly ambitious, he can bump up either number at any time; conversely, if he needs to lighten up, he is able to decrease these targets.

In fact, the Now-Zone™ feature allows exercisers while in any program to instantly lock into their current heart rate; so if an exerciser wants maintain their current heart rate, the push of the Now-Zone™ button is all they need.

Although heart rate programming can be complicated on some fitness machines, Octane Fitness makes it easy. Exercisers need only to program their ideal workout once and save it. The My Quick Start feature allows them to hit one button and go-with all their customized information saved in the machine.

And, for even more all-important feedback, Octane Fitness products display current heart rate, target heart rate and percentage of maximum heart rate-freeing individuals from having to compute math equations in their head. In addition, the console shows time spent in the target heart rate zones, providing valuable data at the exerciser's fingertips.

Results-driven workouts
Octane Fitness elliptical cross-trainers afford exercisers efficient, unique heart rate interactive workouts and customization options unavailable on other cardiovascular machines. Smart fitness enthusiasts will take advantage of the exclusive HeartLogic™ Intelligence technology-and reap significant benefits from optimal workouts that use the precision of heart rate training and the effectiveness of interval training.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:27 PM | Heart Rate Training | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

What is cross training?
With more fitness tools available than ever before, today it is easy to cross train, or incorporate variety in workouts such as jogging on Mondays and Wednesdays and lifting weights and swimming on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Or it can be spending 15 minutes each on a stationary cycle, elliptical cross trainer and treadmill for a 45-minute session.
Varying workouts ultimately produces the best outcomes-whether that means losing weight, running a race or playing a better golf game.

Breaking habits
Why not just do same exercise routine day in and out? Because performing the exact exercise routine over time actually can hinder progress.

According to the specific adaptations to imposed demands (S.A.I.D.) principle, the body adapts over time to the demands imposed on it. By repeating the same exercises, the neuromuscular system becomes stronger and better coordinated-so that eventually the body is more energy-efficient at that activity. As efficiency increases, caloric expenditure can drop by as much as 25 percent-which can result in less effective workouts and plateaus.

Therefore, cross training is instrumental to continually challenge the body and deliver results.

Benefits of cross training
In addition to sustaining physiological progress, cross training leads to a myriad of other benefits:
Better overall fitness level
No single activity can yield all the potential benefits of exercise such as better cardiovascular health, stronger muscles and bones, enhanced flexibility and lower body fat.
Reduced risk of injury
Excessive repetition in one activity can lead to overuse injuries. Distributing the exercise stress throughout the body results in a stronger, more balanced system.
Improved athletic performance
Peak performance in virtually all physical activities involves more than just one physical attribute. So a sprinter still benefits from weight training to build overall strength.
Enhanced motivation and reduced boredom
Trying new activities can prevent burnout and keep exercisers committed over the long haul.
Cross training within one machine
Introduced in 1995, the elliptical cross trainer is currently the fastest-growing piece of fitness equipment, with its usage increasing five-fold in the last eight years. A cardiovascular machine breakthrough, ellipticals combine the motion of a cross-country machine and a stairclimber-with the feet traveling in an egg-shaped, or elliptical, motion-delivering a weight-bearing, easy-on-the-joints, simple to use, effective workout unlike any other fitness product.

Also, today's units are unique because they easily facilitate cross training on the same machine by allowing for forward and backward motion and including arms for synchronized, total-body movement. Studies have shown that total-body elliptical cross trainers engage numerous muscles, including the gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, pectorals, lats, deltoids, biceps and triceps in a natural, closed kinetic chain-unlike any other modalities such as treadmills, stationary cycles or stairclimbers. Plus, core musculature strength and stability are constantly taxed on a total-body machine, as exercisers must recruit the abdominals and lower back to maintain balance.

Another benefit is that total-body ellipticals may not feel as intense as other machines due to the movement's low impact nature and dispersion of effort throughout the entire body. Furthermore, simulating realistic motions such as walking or running on a total-body elliptical cross trainer can lead to "transferable" gains that help improve performance of everyday activities. Ellipticals also may enhance balance, coordination and fluidity of motion-all of which play a critical role in activities of daily living.

The bottom line is a more intense workout with greater oxygen and muscular demands and caloric expenditure-all at a lower overall perceived exertion level and with practical application.

Revolutionizing elliptical workouts
Octane Fitness has revolutionized cross training with its innovative, exclusive X-Mode+™ and GluteKicker™ programs on its total-body elliptical cross trainers. No other machine on the market benefits exercisers with these intense cross training workouts that fuel the ultimate regimen that delivers results.

The X-Mode+™, easily activated during any workout with the touch of a button, delivers instructions in a randomly generated sequence for maximum physical and mental stimulation. One-minute intervals of X-Mode+™ commands are followed by two minutes of standard elliptical motion striding forward and using the upper body. This type of interval training not only boosts caloric expenditure but also annihilates monotony and makes workouts virtually fly by.

The X-Mode+™ is like a virtual personal trainer-prompting a variety of movements that keep the body working effectively at all times:

Push/Arms
emphasizes the pectorals and triceps and focuses exerciser on actively working arms
Pull/Arms
biceps and lats are worked as exerciser concentrates on pulling motion
Reverse
reminds exercisers to pedal backwards to shift muscular emphasis more heavily from gluteals and hamstrings to quadriceps and calves
Squat
bending knees slightly increases load on glutes and quadriceps
Lower Body Only
allows for upper body recovery and challenges exerciser to sustain pace with legs only
Fast
pushes exercisers to speed up to 50-60 rpm to raise intensity
Slow
recovery period of 30-40 rpm allows heart rate and respiratory rate to come down slightly, allowing for slower, deeper oxygen intake and elimination of carbon dioxide
Lean Back
by grabbing stationary handlebars and leaning back slightly, exerciser shifts muscle focus to quadriceps
Building on the X-Mode+™ is the GluteKicker™, an aggressive program that focuses exclusively and intensely on the gluteals, hips, quadriceps and hamstrings. In the GluteKicker™, four commands appear randomly-reverse, squat, fast and lean back-for one minute. After a one-minute recovery, the lower-body emphasis begins again-making this an optimal workout to blast the hips, butt and thighs.

Fueling workouts
Clearly, cross training is the most effective way to train. Taking advantage of an elliptical cross trainer provides unique options all within one workout on one machine-which just is not possible on any other cardiovascular piece. With the X-Mode+™ and GluteKicker™, Octane Fitness machines incorporate beneficial variety that keeps exercisers fueled and fit, workout after workout

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:15 PM | Elliptical Cross Training | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

When it comes to elliptical machines, all definitely have a distinct motion and feel-which both are critical factors that influence whether you look forward to or dread and eventually give up on your elliptical machines exercises.
Because of our commitment to deliver the best, most effective elliptical machines, Octane Fitness dedicates significant resources to biomechanics and ergonomic research. Rather than just replicate existing elliptical machines, we strive to surpass others by carefully examining how the body moves naturally and thoughtfully considering how we can best accommodate all types of exercisers.

We invest in numerous tools, such as sophisticated motion analysis software, solid elliptical machines modeling, comprehensive testing, video analysis and human interface studies with input from biomechanists, engineers, medical professionals, personal trainers and exercisers. And we've teamed up with the Department of Human Performance at Minnesota State University to conduct scientific studies of how our elliptical machines affect the body and how particular innovations could even further enhance elliptical machines.

Ultimately, this dedication to research is what separates us from the rest-and helps you get the results you're after.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:10 PM | Elliptical Machines Research | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Regular exercise is as important to a healthy heart as quitting smoking, lowering blood cholesterol and controlling blood pressure.

What kind of exercise you do isn't as important as doing something several times a week, week after week, month after month and year after year.

Studies show that as little as 30 minutes a day of moderately vigorous physical activity, such as yardwork, housecleaning or climbing stairs, significantly reduces your risk of heart disease.

Find activities that are convenient and fun, and make them a regular part of your life.

Why does exercise help?

Exercise helps to control blood pressure, improve cholesterol, fat and blood sugar metabolism. It prevents obesity, slows the clotting rate of the blood and reduces stress.

All of these factors help to prevent artery disease, or atherosclerosis—a gradual build-up of deposits and plaque on the artery walls.

Plaque can eventually break off and trigger the formation of blood clots, which may block blood flow, possibly leading to a heart attack or stroke. By slowing the rate of plaque deposits , exercise helps to keep arteries healthy.

Is exercise dangerous?

Not likely. However, strenuous activity can precipitate a heart attack—most likely in someone with artery disease or other heart problem.

How do you know if you have artery disease? Good question. There is no precise way to know. Exercise stress tests can be helpful, but are expensive, not always accurate, which can lead to further testing in many healthy people with false positive results.

Nevertheless, stress tests are recommended for men over 40 and women over 50 who have been inactive and are beginning a strenuous exercise program.

They are also recommended for people with cardiovascular risk factors, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and chest pain.

To make your workouts low-risk, use the following guidelines:

Consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Exercise regularly. It's easier on your body. Warm up and cool down. A slow but steady buildup in exercise intensity allows the cardiovascular system to adjust to the demands of rigorous activity. A good cool down helps your system adjust back to resting level. Mild to moderate exercise intensity is safer than a more vigorous workout.
Listen to your body and heed warning signs, such as chest pain or pressure, abnormal heart rhythms or dizziness. While these symptoms are often caused by something other than heart disease, it's best to be safe and check them out.
Does regular exercise guarantee a healthy heart?

There are few guarantees in life except death and taxes, someone said once. Alas, regular vigorous exercise is no guarantee to a heart disease-free organ.

Physical fitness reduces, but doesn't eliminate, cardiovascular risk. Heart disease can occur in people with no risk factors. Stay active, eat wisely and get regular checkups.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 04:05 PM | Regular Exercise Key to Healthy Heart | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2nd Wind Exercise Equipment, the Midwest Leader in Fitness Opened 3 stores in St. Louis, MO today. The New Locations are centrally located and filled with New Exercise Equipment.

Posted by Dick Enrico at 11:15 AM | 2nd Wind Lands in St. Louis, MO | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)