Bodyweight Exercise Series: Hanging Leg Raise

<strong>The bodyweight hanging leg raise is an advanced abdominal exercise.</strong><br /><br /><strong>There is a reason you see more people doing ab crunches instead of hanging leg raises! The hanging leg raise and its variations is very tough to execute.</strong> In fact, it is the gold standard for abdominal exercises! Gymnasts have been doing hanging leg raises for decades. A person needs <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/search/label/Article%20Series--Core%20Training">core strength</a>, arm strength and grip strength to perform the exercise correctly. If you can't do one hanging leg raise, you need to strengthen your core, <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2007/12/exercise-technique-article-series-part_2834.html">back</a>, arms and grip. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwygHAxwzeHrInhLwbfRYRggaEyxUSncOyA4XVgAPH0Fc9ZCfW0c7PUAFueENQrj1NoNmxf_2RdaB3XCI4F6P46CxiLaCUtmOCb8naA3AnzOQ0gblj__U0-uEsgZkhAtdDUl6JCi0BSs6L/s1600-h/hanging+leg+raise.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5171567250673240146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwygHAxwzeHrInhLwbfRYRggaEyxUSncOyA4XVgAPH0Fc9ZCfW0c7PUAFueENQrj1NoNmxf_2RdaB3XCI4F6P46CxiLaCUtmOCb8naA3AnzOQ0gblj__U0-uEsgZkhAtdDUl6JCi0BSs6L/s320/hanging+leg+raise.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" /></a> <br /><br />1. Hang from a bar using an overhand grip with arms straight and shoulder-width apart. Let your legs hang straight down.<br /><br />2. Contract your abs and make sure that your back remains neutral with natural arch. Keep your head still and looking straight ahead. Raise your legs to the midpoint of your body using your abdominal muscles. Don't swing your legs up and use momentum to do the exercise. This is a controlled strength exercise.<br /><br />3. Hold for 1 to 2 seconds and slowly lower your legs. That is one repetition.<br /><br />Beginning exercisers can start by trying to bend the knees up to the chest. Intermediate exercisers are able to do a straight leg raise up to the midpoint of the body. Advanced exercisers can usually raise straight legs up to the head or "windshield wiper" bent knees to the left and right.<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br /><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Hanging Leg Raise

The bodyweight hanging leg raise is an advanced abdominal exercise. There is a reason you see more people doing ab crunches instead of hangi...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Pullups

<strong>You must include bodyweight pullups in your exercise routine!</strong> The pullup is one of the best exercises you should be doing! If you haven't done a pullup since grade school, you need to bring the pullup out of your workout closet! <strong>If you can't do any, start doing 1 pullup and progress (assisted pullup machine or a spotter are also options).</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8MEScFSeGZq4WISH3TcB_kOET1seaiKOA2OlR7wNGszBMF7SOafA9feMl3EQR92MNl_zodDe1RFkysJiZfXrKe1doAHpL-wkg4sHpDkSfzayTcRZmFlKtRAhk7ea2NSgsgCf6LNYj8_n/s1600-h/pull+ups.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433168175607019938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8MEScFSeGZq4WISH3TcB_kOET1seaiKOA2OlR7wNGszBMF7SOafA9feMl3EQR92MNl_zodDe1RFkysJiZfXrKe1doAHpL-wkg4sHpDkSfzayTcRZmFlKtRAhk7ea2NSgsgCf6LNYj8_n/s320/pull+ups.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 190px;" /></a> Image credit: philipmak<br /><br /><strong>The pullup is not just a back muscle exercise.</strong> Pullups work your lats (and other back muscles), core, shoulders, arms, chest, biceps and improve grip strength. That's why you should be doing pullups! <br /><br />1. Hang from a pullup bar with your palms facing away from your body, your arms straight and your feet crossed together with legs bent about 90 degrees. Pull yourself up until your chin passes the bar. <br /><br />2. A wider grip (greater than shoulder width) will work your lats more. A closer grip (shoulder width or less) will work your middle back muscles more.<br /><br />3. If you lack grip strength, you can use straps to help.<br /><br /><strong>Use proper technique when doing a pullup:</strong><br /><br />1. Don't jut your chin out (it strains your cervical spine).<br /><br />2. Don't swing. It makes the pullup easier by using momentum. You need to pullup, not swing up.<br /><br />3. Don't let your chest collapse because that puts too much stress on your shoulders.<br /><br />4. Don't arch your lower back too much. You want your abdominal muscles to be engaged when you do the pullup. Keep your torso braced (as if taking a punch to the gut) during the pullup.<br /><br />5. When you start the pullup, drive your shoulder blades down and squeeze them together. This will engage your shoulder stabilizers more.<br /><br /><strong>Don't be afraid of the pullup exercise! Pull it out of the closet and start doing them!</strong> <br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Pullups

You must include bodyweight pullups in your exercise routine! The pullup is one of the best exercises you should be doing! If you haven...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Burpees!!

The <strong><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">bodyweight burpee</a></strong> exercise sounds kind of gross but it burns body fat like crazy and its good for you! Burpees! Ughhh! Seriously, always do burpees under control with good technique.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VDeROv4RFJTmqHJv6Kzgp_-wVVTqM6KPQ_Ht44rISZgSzQTPOwPPIho50MTZ6zwd7j1u7zOkI3PuQCnX0XSedjkHxrFLY1-3YT3-yKBDjh_9cHY9GsipCzxpL4ilepgW6nYnqxA2EdYH/s1600-h/Burpees.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262822512701763282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VDeROv4RFJTmqHJv6Kzgp_-wVVTqM6KPQ_Ht44rISZgSzQTPOwPPIho50MTZ6zwd7j1u7zOkI3PuQCnX0XSedjkHxrFLY1-3YT3-yKBDjh_9cHY9GsipCzxpL4ilepgW6nYnqxA2EdYH/s320/Burpees.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>You know I don't like fitness gadgets, gimmicks, weight loss pills/powders/patches or any quick weight loss scheme.....</strong><br /><br /><strong>If you need to change up your high intensity interval cardio routine, here is a great choice----do full speed burpees for 20 minutes.....</strong>trust me, it is a great full-body exercise that will increase your strength endurance, power and anaerobic conditioning (remember, aerobics is an exercise done for more than 2 straight minutes). <br /><br />Exercises like sprints and jumps are anaerobic. Research has proven that anaerobic conditioning will give you superior fat loss and heart health. <br /><br /><strong>You can use the burpee exercise as an interval cardio routine to ramp up your fat-burning and conditioning:</strong><br /><br />--1 minute full speed burpees<br />--2 minutes walk or jog<br />--Do this routine for 20 minutes and you're done!<br /><br />From a squat position with your hands on the floor, kick your feet back to a pushup position. Quickly return your feet to the squat position and jump as high as you can from the squat position. Repeat this exercise at full speed for 1 minute. Whew! Walk or jog for 2 minutes and burpee again. <br /><br />Go for it! <br /><br /><strong>Train hard and safe.</strong><br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Burpees!!

The bodyweight burpee exercise sounds kind of gross but it burns body fat like crazy and its good for you! Burpees! Ughhh! Seriously, alw...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Bridge For Your Back

Use the <strong>bodyweight bridge exercise</strong> to strengthen and stabilize your <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/02/strengthen-lower-back-and-prolong.html">lower back muscles.</a> Many people develop low back problems because too little time is spent strengthening the muscles of the lower back. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzN02oTBAcXVoqJCxzpFEtlziNS891AUGTYhNy9D_JAj87NDuY1K56wc8snSlNTkOo6W4J7oPV3zf-FomgjOPb5yo750_syJS6YgqavYJphQXOj7m6d8Gc2ojSQ1gJWaP7AcEKpDvOFM/s1600-h/R1-15A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377125471885804722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzN02oTBAcXVoqJCxzpFEtlziNS891AUGTYhNy9D_JAj87NDuY1K56wc8snSlNTkOo6W4J7oPV3zf-FomgjOPb5yo750_syJS6YgqavYJphQXOj7m6d8Gc2ojSQ1gJWaP7AcEKpDvOFM/s320/R1-15A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-6OJBhLAx2LhkHiT2B-908V5LLfdQCj1nGNmnC9jGIRwIX55bCcJsZLKUV9pIeDM9zwA61-o2oAwhLJQHOYnM7KkAQ1LCTxW-I91O3inqDnuL9Toc-gArhzWHpqZ2XD2EQTFD298RFY/s1600-h/R1-16A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377125995078954690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-6OJBhLAx2LhkHiT2B-908V5LLfdQCj1nGNmnC9jGIRwIX55bCcJsZLKUV9pIeDM9zwA61-o2oAwhLJQHOYnM7KkAQ1LCTxW-I91O3inqDnuL9Toc-gArhzWHpqZ2XD2EQTFD298RFY/s320/R1-16A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" /></a><br /><br />1. Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and your hands by your sides.<br /><br />2. Lift your body off the ground into a straight line and brace your torso (like taking a punch to the gut). Don't let your body sag. Hold for 3-5 seconds and repeat for 12-15 repetitions. Do 2-3 sets.<br /><br />Other great <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/08/core-strength-stabilizes-spine.html">core exercises</a> that will strengthen your lower back muscles are cobras, <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/07/stability-ball-plank.html">stability ball plank</a>, supermans and <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/09/put-your-back-into-your-workouts.html">back extensions</a>. <br /><br /><strong>Don't neglect to strengthen your lower back muscles!</strong> You will pay with pain and injuries if you ignore training your lower back!<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br /><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Bridge For Your Back

Use the bodyweight bridge exercise to strengthen and stabilize your lower back muscles. Many people develop low back problems because too...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Back Extensions

<strong>Do bodyweight back extensions</strong> to protect your spine and build back muscles. Do you have lower back problems? The low back pain might have been avoided by doing the back extension exercise.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuob4RKAMBK-svZN_aVpPBwbaiIFZwqyg6q2MzLDFYc4KqZO6AYmrwTwFHJU6ij5aMnruioD9VThKJ7aiZ6VvQs86H2AxENZ-mLFgYDs53XR3sOYYKQfWppIMlHC8z8EVnq9RNrOocVZmr/s1600-h/Back+Extensions.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5142475418423785234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuob4RKAMBK-svZN_aVpPBwbaiIFZwqyg6q2MzLDFYc4KqZO6AYmrwTwFHJU6ij5aMnruioD9VThKJ7aiZ6VvQs86H2AxENZ-mLFgYDs53XR3sOYYKQfWppIMlHC8z8EVnq9RNrOocVZmr/s320/Back+Extensions.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Strengthening your back muscles are very important for obvious reasons.</strong> Seventy to 80% of Americans have back pain (many times low back pain) at some point. The way to protect against this is to strengthen your body's core. To specifically protect your spine, you should do back extensions (with weights for the advanced). <br /><br /><strong>Back extensions target the erector spinae muscle group surrounding the spine.</strong> Your hamstrings also contract strongly during the back extension exercise and assist the erector spinae. <br /><br /><strong>It is important to perform this exercise correctly or you will end up with the very thing you are trying to avoid----BACK PAIN OR INJURY.</strong> The technique error I see most in those doing back extensions is hyperextension of the back. Hyperextension happens when you continue lifting your upper body past the point of a straight line (your back, hips and lower legs should line up). <br /><br />The picture shows correct technique. Hyperextension will compress your vertebral discs. This important exercise should be included with your other back exercises such as rows, inverted rows, bridges and lat pulldowns.<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Back Extensions

Do bodyweight back extensions to protect your spine and build back muscles. Do you have lower back problems? The low back pain might have...

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Visualization Leads To Weight Loss

<strong>Visualization can help you <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/09/perseverance-and-weight-loss.html">lose weight</a>, burn fat and get the lean and toned body you want.</strong> Visualize exactly what body you want, obtain the tools and information you need to succeed and work hard (never quitting) to acheive healthy weight loss and <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/10/fat-loss-frequently-asked-questions.html">fat loss</a>. <br /><br /><strong>Visualize yourself with the body and health you always wanted. BE SPECIFIC. And then (actualization) actually take steps to make it happen (you might need some professional guidance). <strong>And, it will happen.</strong> Don't be afraid to set high, realistic weight loss goals. Research has proven that low goals or no goals usually leads to very little, lasting weight loss and fat loss success.</strong><br /><br />Here is an example of visualization becoming reality from last night's NFC Championship football game won by the New Orleans Saints.<br /><br />The kicker who made the winning field goal, Garrett Hartley, visualized (the previous night) making a 42 yard field goal from the right hash mark. He called his dad the night before to tell him about his "vision" of making the winning field goal. <br /><br /><strong>The winning field goal was 40 yards from the right hash mark!</strong><br /><br />Athletes use visualization all the time to imagine themselves making a particular play. Didn't we visualize all the time in our backyards growing up....remember hitting the game-winning homerun in the bottom of the ninth inning?<br /><br /><strong>Start today visualizing or re-visualizing your weight loss and fat loss success. Start making it happen. </strong><br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b>

Visualization Leads To Weight Loss

Visualization can help you lose weight , burn fat and get the lean and toned body you want. Visualize exactly what body you want, obtain t...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: One-Legged Squat

The <strong><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/09/bodyweight-exercise-at-home.html">bodyweight</a> one-legged squat</strong> is a high-level exercise that will improve your <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/05/lower-body-fat-burning-circuit.html">lower body</a> strength and dynamic balance. You might have to work up to doing this exercise by using a bench or chair for support.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkwcMXCW7DxyDk4kq9lg9YvP5AzMKmYDN5eQ3CexXWjq4S4KuSjgECumhSsu-VOgQSZGQePdqk1Namxzc4X2WUK4PSWP6lYbzImnsf1MR0Kf82k3bAFmtjRfve2IteUpUcOIBGCdqTEM/s1600-h/Single+leg+squat.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233910953020204434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkwcMXCW7DxyDk4kq9lg9YvP5AzMKmYDN5eQ3CexXWjq4S4KuSjgECumhSsu-VOgQSZGQePdqk1Namxzc4X2WUK4PSWP6lYbzImnsf1MR0Kf82k3bAFmtjRfve2IteUpUcOIBGCdqTEM/s320/Single+leg+squat.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>The one-legged squat is one of the best exercises out there (and tougher to do than you think). It builds strength (including <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/02/core-training-is-huge-buzzword-in.html">core</a> strength) and stabilizes the legs and hips.</strong> It is important to perform the exercise correctly. One-legged squats will also help improve your speed because it works the same muscles involved in running (quads, hamstrings, glutes, abductors/adductors). One-legged exercises forces each leg to develop at the same rate (one leg can't compensate for weakness in the other leg).<br /><br /><strong>There are many variations of the squat exercise. There is no doubt that the squat should be a part of your regular exercise program. But, you don't have to "max out" on the squat exercise for it to be effective. </strong> <br /><br />Do the one-legged squat this way:<br /><br />1) Stand with your feet hip width apart with knees slightly bent and toes pointing forward. <br /><br />2) Start position: Lift one foot off ground and extend leg forward. Extend arms forward at hip level.<br /><br />3) Lower your body by bending at the hips and knees. Be sure to “sit back” so that your knees stay over the feet. Keep your head and back straight in a neutral position (hyperextension or flexion may cause injury). Keep your weight over the middle of the foot and heel, not the toes. Keep your abdominals tight throughout the exercise by bracing your torso.<br /><br />4) Once your thigh is slightly above parallel to the floor, return to the start position. That is one repetition. <br /><br /><strong>Challenge yourself with the one-legged squat exercise!</strong><br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: One-Legged Squat

The bodyweight one-legged squat is a high-level exercise that will improve your lower body strength and dynamic balance. You might have ...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Sprinting Burns Fat!

<strong>Sprinting <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/12/burn-more-fat-with-weight-training.html">burns fat</a> like crazy folks!</strong> Sprinting is one of the best ways to get your total body <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/11/get-lean-and-toned-body.html">lean and toned</a>. It is probabaly one of the least used exercises done by general exercisers. <strong>And, you don't have to be fast, just run as fast as you can! </strong> To avoid injuries, always sprint on surfaces like grass or sand and never run on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbikaYhij93BNKMasyphRrtjsszjQuslwiBp0do8GwcGZne-6hH-UHBgpoQu6X6pfE_X2jwoXyqCCIw8bXA2OuU5M03g3Ibq118gQDlepj9JMyH4rVBbTpxqdrXwphMZ_9aEimMblkBBU/s1600-h/R1-19A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429083349543670386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbikaYhij93BNKMasyphRrtjsszjQuslwiBp0do8GwcGZne-6hH-UHBgpoQu6X6pfE_X2jwoXyqCCIw8bXA2OuU5M03g3Ibq118gQDlepj9JMyH4rVBbTpxqdrXwphMZ_9aEimMblkBBU/s320/R1-19A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" /></a><br /><br />Athletes are forced to run sprints because of their particular sport. As a former college football player, I can remember running as many as 50 consecutive 40-yard sprints on the Monday after a Saturday game! Running sprints was the total practice for that day. <strong>Either way, sprints will lean and tone your body like never before (combined with full body strength training).</strong><br /><br /><strong>You see, sprinting activates your bulkier, shapely fast twitch muscle fibers. These fast twitch muscle fibers lie dormant when you do slow-paced cardio sessions (hint). Sprinting will really burn the fat on your <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/10/top-5-butt-blaster-cardio-exercises.html">butt</a>, hips, thighs, hamstrings and lower legs. Fat will also be burned on your upper body.</strong><br /><br /><strong>It is important to properly warmup before doing sprinting intervals.</strong> A proper warmup is a <strong>dynamic warmup</strong> such as doing 5-10 minutes of jogging, walking lunges, half-speed sprints and three-quarters speed sprints. Do static stretches after your workout to bring your muscles back to normal length.<br /><br /><strong>To sprint efficiently and avoid injuries, you need to <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/01/master-running-mechanics-to-improve.html">master correct running mechanics</a>.</strong> Most people that I see at gyms need to work on running mechanics. Running the right way really does make running easier (and vice-versa)!<br /><br /><strong>A 20-minute sprint interval workout is very simple---and tough! Do it this way:</strong><br /><br />--Run a 50 to 60 yard sprint<br />--Walk back to start line<br />--Run a 50 to 60 yard sprint<br /><br /><strong>Do this rotation for 20-minutes and you are done (exhausted)! </strong> Do this type of workout no more than 2 times a week. This will allow your body to recover from this intense form of exercise.<br /><br />A sprint interval workout will also give you superior heart-health. <br /><br /><strong>Ready, set, go!</strong><br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Sprinting Burns Fat!

Sprinting burns fat like crazy folks! Sprinting is one of the best ways to get your total body lean and toned . It is probabaly one of t...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Good Lunges, Bad Lunges

<strong>Use bodyweight lunges as part of your <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/06/do-effective-dynamic-warmup-routine.html">dynamic warm-up</a> or as a strength exercise.</strong> Bodyweight lunges are great for adding muscular balance and <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/01/dynamic-balance-and-proprioception.html">dynamic balance</a> to your lower body because you work one leg at a time (stronger leg can't compensate for weaker leg).<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BhBkm598K5GbDA1aWAK1sxcevVtYXasacBtYC66Wpyc5TY6L4JtwLpGV6IWgzvo0yOWIOb0QtPVd2-opCBbEPCUPBJVn_oG8JHqqs3NM7yNiZC-7JxDOzthunW1gOqDiDRcRn8BMlWky/s1600-h/R1-16A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428617194766724834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BhBkm598K5GbDA1aWAK1sxcevVtYXasacBtYC66Wpyc5TY6L4JtwLpGV6IWgzvo0yOWIOb0QtPVd2-opCBbEPCUPBJVn_oG8JHqqs3NM7yNiZC-7JxDOzthunW1gOqDiDRcRn8BMlWky/s320/R1-16A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>You also need adequate <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/05/strengthen-deep-core-muscles-with-side.html">core strength</a> to keep your body upright during the lunge.</strong> Walking lunges improve your speed because you use the same pathways it takes to run fast.<br /><br /><strong>The picture above is an example of a good walking lunge and a bad walking lunge.</strong> The person doing the bad walking lunge doesn't have adequate core strength to keep his body upright.<br /><br /><strong>When you do the walking lunge, don't let your front knee go past your foot and don't let your back knee touch the ground on the descent.</strong> Also, don't let the front thigh go past parallel to the ground.<br /><br />To work your hamstrings more, lunge out further with the front leg. A shorter lunge will work the quadriceps more. Most people need more <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/03/strengthen-hamstrings-more-during.html">hamstring strength</a> to prevent injuries.<br /><br /><strong>Include this walking lunges, forward lunges, reverse lunges, <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/07/clock-lunges.html">clock lunges</a> and side lunges in your workouts!</strong><br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Good Lunges, Bad Lunges

Use bodyweight lunges as part of your dynamic warm-up or as a strength exercise. Bodyweight lunges are great for adding muscular balance ...

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"Pants On The Ground" Because Of Weight Loss

<strong>Yes, I want your pants to fall to the ground because you have achieved weight loss, <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/12/your-fat-loss-year-in-review.html">fat loss</a> and lost inches!</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqu9HCZBZ7ByQupyjjd_lNUiV-sX0B_AxRJoSs-AluqsSxfP3I4WGxJsiy6onz8TNX0zrmHV4I9-QH2Nl-zsTjBU5-oDRfF_U-WRhAfEOFfOCqfeRA1P0-MFB1mefKfq7H396stG3Cmnbk/s1600-h/Pants+on+the+Ground.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428251799884835554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqu9HCZBZ7ByQupyjjd_lNUiV-sX0B_AxRJoSs-AluqsSxfP3I4WGxJsiy6onz8TNX0zrmHV4I9-QH2Nl-zsTjBU5-oDRfF_U-WRhAfEOFfOCqfeRA1P0-MFB1mefKfq7H396stG3Cmnbk/s320/Pants+on+the+Ground.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Of course, the "pants on the ground" phrase is a take on the newest rage on American Idol...</strong>I don't really watch American Idol (really!) but that video has been on television about every other commercial on FOX TV. And the "pants on the ground" video was a big hit on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nsv2LrdXf1Y">YouTube</a> the day it was released (over 1 million views already).<br /><br /><strong>So, how do you get your "pants on the ground with weight loss?" Here you go:</strong> <br /><br /><strong>1. Get a healthy meal plan and start following it...most of your fat loss and weight loss success will be due to you eating right.</strong> One good way to start breaking bad habits is to make progress with small changes. An example would be to severely limit sugars from your diet. <strong>This one change will help you burn belly fat!</strong><br /><br /><strong>2. Get your body movin' again!</strong> All movement burns calories. If you have been inactive, start walking every day for 30 minutes and work your way up to exercising regularly (weight training, cardio) for at least 30 minutes a day.<br /><br /><strong>3. Don't let setbacks keep you from continuing with your exercise program.</strong> Remember, it is your healthy lifestyle that you want to continue, not a weight loss program.<br /><br /><strong>4. Get help from a professional fitness trainer if needed. A workout partner also would help you stay on track.</strong> <br /><br /><strong>5. Take steps today! Procrastination is the biggest hindrance to starting something new and challenging (especially if you have failed in the past).</strong><br /><br /><strong>Start working on "getting your pants on the ground!"</strong><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/lean-body-and-six-pack-abs.html#.UfUd09LqmuI">Get FREE Training and Nutrition Insider Secrets for a Lean-Body with Six Pack Abs</a>!</strong> This ebook, created by Certified Nutrition Specialist & Certified Personal Trainer, Mike Geary, details over 27 specific metabolism-boosting secrets that you can use to strip off your stubborn body fat faster and easier and get your six-pack abs! Contains unique workout methods and nutritional strategies to slash body fat and take your body to a whole new level of leanness. <strong><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/lean-body-and-six-pack-abs.html#.UfUd09LqmuI">Get Your FREE Book Now</a>!</strong>

"Pants On The Ground" Because Of Weight Loss

Yes, I want your pants to fall to the ground because you have achieved weight loss, fat loss and lost inches! Of course, the "pants on...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Step Ups

<strong>The bodyweight step up</strong> is one of the best leg toning and strengthening exercises available to you. It will help you <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/11/burn-more-fat-with-plyometrics.html">burn more fat</a> in your legs. <br /><br />Step ups will also improve your dynamic balance. <strong>Its not that easy to balance all your weight on one leg (with good form) while stepping up onto a platform.</strong> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMh803x1IoqpH9N2eep4vH3eWnMr86ulylLFF_j4845lvLUxII5Eg2bnJ_uEPxIwo0q-5xft0dEQJ5afAsIp1r9ouTyTb1AISXOAB-uDcwe49WpNd7EtA0c_HlW5Wk3I3qF0aZyTReZtU/s1600-h/R1-+1A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427159703854539618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMh803x1IoqpH9N2eep4vH3eWnMr86ulylLFF_j4845lvLUxII5Eg2bnJ_uEPxIwo0q-5xft0dEQJ5afAsIp1r9ouTyTb1AISXOAB-uDcwe49WpNd7EtA0c_HlW5Wk3I3qF0aZyTReZtU/s320/R1-+1A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 216px; height: 320px;" /></a><br /><br />1. Face a bench or platform (knee high) and put your right foot on the bench. Your knee should be bent 90 degrees. Don't do this exercise with dumbbells until you have mastered the bodyweight version.<br /><br />2. As you lift your body on your right leg, keep your body erect (don't bend over) and look straight ahead. Balance on your leg for 1-2 seconds and descend. Don't let your left foot touch the platform.<br /><br />3. Do all required repetitions on the right leg and switch to left leg.<br /><br /><strong>You may have to start with a platform lower than knee-high. Your <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/01/prevention-of-hamstring-injuries-is.html">hamstrings</a> and <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/10/top-5-butt-blaster-cardio-exercises.html">butt</a> will be worked more with a higher platform.</strong> <br /><br /><strong>Exercises like the step up are important because it uses the same pathways that it takes to walk or run.</strong> Plus, one leg cannot compensate for weakness in the other leg. <strong>If your left leg is weaker, it will be forced to "catch up" to the right leg. Muscular balance is important to avoid injuries.</strong><br /><br /><strong>Step up to your next workout!</strong><br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Step Ups

The bodyweight step up is one of the best leg toning and strengthening exercises available to you. It will help you burn more fat in your...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Mountain Climbers

<strong>Do bodyweight <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/07/mountain-climbers-need-core-strength.html">mountain climbers</a> if you're serious about taking your workout to another level.</strong> The mountain climber is a versatile exercise in that you can do it on level ground, on an incline, knee-across-your-body, as a warmup, as cardio or as a speed exercise. <strong>I like to include mountain climbers as part of a bodyweight cardio session.</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RmuX3g1ZNiSnTC9F4CVBpZfG2FwYzdBXUIaNbIIC08FVzWACrCY4Wq65NKlaW0kwDZU78C9ikYyUCeEmyjRfL5a-dF2oVvmbgyDoJMNYyugMZasU40eVYhXFXcE3_BTCgALl_5gy1RPb/s1600-h/R1-11A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426509480889106530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RmuX3g1ZNiSnTC9F4CVBpZfG2FwYzdBXUIaNbIIC08FVzWACrCY4Wq65NKlaW0kwDZU78C9ikYyUCeEmyjRfL5a-dF2oVvmbgyDoJMNYyugMZasU40eVYhXFXcE3_BTCgALl_5gy1RPb/s320/R1-11A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" /></a><br /><br />You will <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/10/burn-abdominal-fat-with-medicine-ball.html">burn more abdominal fat</a> and overall body fat by doing mountain climbers.<br /><br />Either way, include mountain climbers in your workouts more often. It is one of the best and toughest exercises out there. It is a compound exercise in that it works the calves, quadriceps, glutes, back, chest, triceps, abdominals and shoulders. <strong>You will need high levels of <a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/02/core-training-is-huge-buzzword-in.html">core</a> strength to do this exercise the right way for each set. </strong> <br /><br />Do mountain climbers this way:<br /><br /><strong>From a push-up position, keep your back flat (do not let your back bow) and pump your legs as fast as possible (if doing as a speed exercise) like you are running in place. Don't scrape the ground with your shoes as they run forward.</strong> And, don't let your glutes "sag to the ground" when you are fatigued. <br /><br /><strong>If you feel low back pain when doing mountain climbers, stop immediately.</strong> It is impossible to do this exercise the right way if you have a bad back. <br /><br /><strong>Include mountain climbers more in your workouts---you'll be glad you did!</strong> <br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Mountain Climbers

Do bodyweight mountain climbers if you're serious about taking your workout to another level. The mountain climber is a versatile exe...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Pushups, Pushups, Pushups!

<strong>Close-grip pushups, <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/07/stability-ball-pushup.html">pushups on stability ball</a>, power pushups, regular pushups, incline pushups, decline pushups, uneven pushups....take your pick! Pushups are one of the all-time best bodyweight exercises.</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnLXsH45kSgbp_opsRhqhzrq-9bPB3giolp8yYO4c-SogbZvJhw1XLxvRRlU67RUB5XDxBmrr7-0_H3A8OQRkshcYDVGExnNRb2roI3NjCErNh6geGxITwcANuqqBcBC37dBn1i5jzQUF/s1600-h/R1-17A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426073406381936962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnLXsH45kSgbp_opsRhqhzrq-9bPB3giolp8yYO4c-SogbZvJhw1XLxvRRlU67RUB5XDxBmrr7-0_H3A8OQRkshcYDVGExnNRb2roI3NjCErNh6geGxITwcANuqqBcBC37dBn1i5jzQUF/s320/R1-17A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>The pushup on <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/03/powerize-your-body-with-medicine-ball.html">medicine ball</a> is a tough exercise that not everyone can do!</strong> Case in point: I was at the health club one day and a former marine was working out. I started to talk to her about the pushup on medicine ball and she tried the move (of course!). <strong> She was shocked to find out that she couldn't do one pushup on the medicine ball!</strong><br /><br />I'm guessing that she has progressed to the point that she can probably do a few of them now! <strong>In true marine-like fashion, she vowed to "conquer" the pushup on medicine ball!</strong> <br /><br /><strong>How to do the movement:</strong> Put both hands on the ball at arms length. Keep your body straight and torso braced (as if taking a punch in the gut) throughout the movement. Keep your head in line with your torso at all times. Lower your body down to the ball and back to starting position. Repeat as required.<br /><br /><strong>This type of pushup requires adequate <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2007/11/core-training-article-series-part-5.html">core strength</a> to do it properly.</strong> The pushup on medicine ball will build your upper body stabilizer muscles (chest, arms, shoulders, core, etc.) needed to increase your bench press or other upper body strength exercises.<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Pushups, Pushups, Pushups!

Close-grip pushups, pushups on stability ball , power pushups, regular pushups, incline pushups, decline pushups, uneven pushups....take you...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Prisoner Squats

<strong>Add bodyweight prisoner <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/06/barbell-lunges-instead-of-squats.html">squats</a> to your exercise routine. You can do prisoner squats anywhere, anytime (as a warmup exercise also).</strong> <br /><br />As a matter of fact, go ahead and do regular bodyweight squats, one-legged bodyweight squats and Y bodyweight squats. They all work to burn fat and sculpt your body.<br /><br />Besides the obvious strength benefits for your glutes, <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2009/03/strengthen-hamstrings-more-during.html">hamstrings</a> and quadriceps, prisoner squats also help to realign your <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/12/shoulder-impingement-syndrome-and.html">shoulder</a> blades.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEineo7PwnrlQp29yPcfiNurYtCGej2PFgnDY6DAzAtpwV5HLiXnkNrzWUnPPwliqq-GMpLk1oLHElO2BdSfdkqmKgdXtE5pHwHZ74VuwwinIeGS3al3ts9CEQK8c1Ed6akPrSVCethyoj4/s1600-h/Prisoner+Squat.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358546958172760066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEineo7PwnrlQp29yPcfiNurYtCGej2PFgnDY6DAzAtpwV5HLiXnkNrzWUnPPwliqq-GMpLk1oLHElO2BdSfdkqmKgdXtE5pHwHZ74VuwwinIeGS3al3ts9CEQK8c1Ed6akPrSVCethyoj4/s320/Prisoner+Squat.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 216px; height: 320px;" /></a> <br /><br />1.Stand with your feet a little wider than shoulder width apart with your toes pointing slightly outward.<br /><br /><strong>2. With your hands behind your head, keep your chest up and shoulder blades down and back throughout the range of motion.</strong><br /><br /><strong>3. As you descend, push your glutes back as if sitting down, bending at the hips and knees.</strong> Keep your knees aligned with your toes (don't let the knees "cave in" or protrude outside the feet). Also, don’t let your knees pass over your toes and stay back on your heels.<br /><br /><strong>4. Don’t lean forward, maintain the natural arch in your back and keep your core braced (as if getting ready to take a punch).</strong><br /><br />5. As you ascend, contract your glutes. <br /><br />Bodyweight prisoner squats are a good variation from the traditional bodyweight squats.<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Prisoner Squats

Add bodyweight prisoner squats to your exercise routine. You can do prisoner squats anywhere, anytime (as a warmup exercise also). As a ...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Inverted Rows

<strong>Include bodyweight inverted rows in your workout routine to work your back muscles in a different way. Doing different exercises for a specific muscle group can give you faster results or help you break through a plateau. I will see many people doing barbell rows and dumbbell rows but very few people doing inverted rows.</strong> And, inverted rows strengthen much more than just your back muscles...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGy9vnvnDAlky9vOrx1v9EuTSt3cSFUP-OdUAAB9HA-H3MYZ0BNNZnVpiS05iIs5OZWJon5FYzbShUcmw2it_KRuGN92iniUw7KEQ_ROkUZcZz98ZCrAlOOZ39AmQfXwv_SXHYjN0iE8RN/s1600/Inverted+row+start.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474970951879094082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGy9vnvnDAlky9vOrx1v9EuTSt3cSFUP-OdUAAB9HA-H3MYZ0BNNZnVpiS05iIs5OZWJon5FYzbShUcmw2it_KRuGN92iniUw7KEQ_ROkUZcZz98ZCrAlOOZ39AmQfXwv_SXHYjN0iE8RN/s400/Inverted+row+start.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3pcRSL0uMw9nJzyHfBU-VEcrU0AGFlNCGJl8LZcipJeDMcWFodZkJqadZmuGUqXIZZIWI2-QkexY5IrxoKmapovftxQlzX7LOsSq9fK4NuTUguQKNfOI6q1VmOb6GzsvPG8j36UN1Z5SC/s1600/Inverted+row+finish.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474971132546610050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3pcRSL0uMw9nJzyHfBU-VEcrU0AGFlNCGJl8LZcipJeDMcWFodZkJqadZmuGUqXIZZIWI2-QkexY5IrxoKmapovftxQlzX7LOsSq9fK4NuTUguQKNfOI6q1VmOb6GzsvPG8j36UN1Z5SC/s400/Inverted+row+finish.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Inverted rows build strength in your upper back, <a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/2008/12/shoulder-impingement-syndrome-and.html">shoulders</a> and arms. Your core muscles are also engaged during the movement.</strong> Inverted rows also improve your stabilizing strength in the low back, glutes and hamstrings. <strong>And, when you superset the inverted row with the pushup, you will get better muscular balance between the frontside and backside of your upper body.</strong> Muscular balance is critical for athletes to perform at peak levels.<br /><br />1. Hang from the bar of a Smith Machine (back to the floor but not touching) and pull your chest up to the bar. <br /><br />2. Keep your body in a straight line throughout the movement and brace your abs. Also, keep your head in line with your torso. Don't drop the head or jut it forward. <br /><br />Add inverted rows to your exercise routine!<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br /><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Inverted Rows

Include bodyweight inverted rows in your workout routine to work your back muscles in a different way. Doing different exercises for a spec...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Planks And More Planks

<strong>Planks are a bodyweight exercise that should be in your routine. Many times, people will begin to work on superficial core muscles (such as your six pack or rectus abdominis) before strengthening and stabilizing deep core muscles.</strong> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhj7e2mOeHsq1KxkOQ59iOKzlN2z1unf77xNhyphenhyphenalvB9Yd3b42obptkAoQFplPk0X6zuUOXPOYGh1DA7D-6yVcoIdqX6F5x_zHvRuSI4U8sNJ66-T4cB43558KswrExH0sQhx2XPnFkgpE/s1600-h/plank+on+swiss+ball.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361193154710147490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhj7e2mOeHsq1KxkOQ59iOKzlN2z1unf77xNhyphenhyphenalvB9Yd3b42obptkAoQFplPk0X6zuUOXPOYGh1DA7D-6yVcoIdqX6F5x_zHvRuSI4U8sNJ66-T4cB43558KswrExH0sQhx2XPnFkgpE/s320/plank+on+swiss+ball.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>There are many variations of the plank exercise such as prone plank, side plank, plank with leg raise, plank with leg abduction and plank with knee tuck.</strong> Start with the plank exercise you are ready for. If you are a beginner, the prone plank is the place for you to start. And, an exercise like plank with leg abduction works your hips as well.<br /><br />The <strong>stability ball plank</strong> is a great core exercise to advance you from the prone plank exercise on the floor. <br /><br />The ball plank strengthens and stabilizes your deep, foundational core muscles even more than the regular plank. Balancing on the ball while holding the plank position is not easy! Your deep, foundational core muscles are more important than your "six pack abs!"<br /><br />1. Place your elbows on the ball and balance on your toes while keeping your body in a straight line.<br /><br />2. Hold the plank position for a count of 5-10 seconds without moving. The ball will move, so it is a challenge to hold the right alignment. This will obviously improve your balance. Your abs and shoulders will also work much harder. <br /><br />Keep your head in line with your torso and brace your torso (as if taking a punch to the gut). <br /><br /><strong>Enjoy your planks today!</strong> <br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Planks And More Planks

Planks are a bodyweight exercise that should be in your routine. Many times, people will begin to work on superficial core muscles (such as...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Jump Rope Now!

<strong>Jump rope now with your bodyweight to burn more fat, improve your heart health and better lean and tone your body.</strong> <br /><br /><strong>Jumping rope will also help improve your balance, coordination and overall core strength.</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6m-BXLj9XRlkADbNYAwM24ZgaXnQPjTGE88ncusBL8dMesj_ARUIkDBFcljKEz82X8ONuGXjrpIMubXRXWoa8Fi788y9r00Dtj59MYNV5JoFG7vP7-N4BrzzXgl9H3L1yD7F-tsOZ2umL/s1600-h/Jump+rope.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423838654296078882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6m-BXLj9XRlkADbNYAwM24ZgaXnQPjTGE88ncusBL8dMesj_ARUIkDBFcljKEz82X8ONuGXjrpIMubXRXWoa8Fi788y9r00Dtj59MYNV5JoFG7vP7-N4BrzzXgl9H3L1yD7F-tsOZ2umL/s320/Jump+rope.bmp" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 216px; height: 320px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>I was talking to a friend the other day about jumping rope to burn fat. She said, "I can't jump rope, I'm too uncoordinated!" What? Who didn't jump rope as a kid for fun and games? Everybody can jump rope!</strong><br /><br /><strong>Buy a jump rope and practice for 5-10 minutes every day and soon you'll be jumping for 20-30 minutes.</strong> I can make you a promise if you will jump rope for about 20 minutes a day, 4-5 days a week: your body will burn fat and get leaner like never before! <br /><br /><strong>Just do intervals for 20 minutes when you jump rope such as jumping for 1 minute and walking for 1 minute.</strong> As you improve, you can begin to jump faster and faster and burn more and more fat! <br /><br /><strong>Just be sure to look straight ahead, keep your body erect, your core braced (as if taking a punch to your gut) and use your hands/wrists to propel the rope.</strong> Keep your arms and body as still as possible as you jump. Land on the balls of your feet and not your toes. <br /><br /><strong>Oh yeah, have fun jumping rope!</strong><br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Jump Rope Now!

Jump rope now with your bodyweight to burn more fat, improve your heart health and better lean and tone your body. Jumping rope will also h...

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Bodyweight Exercise Series: Squat Jumps

<strong>Use the bodyweight squat jump exercise to better sculpt your body and burn more fat and calories during your workout.</strong> Squat jumps remain one of the best exercises to burn fat and help you lean and tone your body because of the high intensity. <br /><br /><strong>If you're having trouble toning your butt, hips and thighs then you need to do more squat jump exercises in your workouts.</strong> <br /><br />If you are into sports, squat jumps will also help to increase your speed and power for sports like track and field, soccer, lacrosse, tennis and basketball. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7nFSMacH10Y8iBQymcwqD9QxwDH0pCLiIXZZ5vkrtBCTGAIxGdZE4JLlZKZb3e7jXn2_jXSsygsaJdJzcGHB_MysPuTXbOznVYQhyphenhyphenOWDfWvI-1-vSo_xidTcY5lIJKjgB6zWmFPkqmsZ/s1600-h/R1-10A.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423401619882038402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7nFSMacH10Y8iBQymcwqD9QxwDH0pCLiIXZZ5vkrtBCTGAIxGdZE4JLlZKZb3e7jXn2_jXSsygsaJdJzcGHB_MysPuTXbOznVYQhyphenhyphenOWDfWvI-1-vSo_xidTcY5lIJKjgB6zWmFPkqmsZ/s320/R1-10A.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 216px; height: 320px;" /></a><br /><br /><strong>To do the squat jump, descend into your squat, swing your arms back and forward and jump up explosively (reaching upward with your arms) and repeat for the required repetitions.</strong> <br /><br />It is important to learn proper jumping and landing techniques before doing squat jumps. If you have knee and low back problems, high-speed squat jumps are not for you.<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br />

Bodyweight Exercise Series: Squat Jumps

Use the bodyweight squat jump exercise to better sculpt your body and burn more fat and calories during your workout. Squat jumps remain o...

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Sculpt Your Body For Life Or Sports

<strong>Sculpt your body for how you want to live, whether its to live an active, healthy life and/or to play your favorite sport. Just as you set other high personal goals for financial and relationship success, set your health and fitness goals high and realistic (challenging and attainable).</strong> <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguIcXtt10PHgqxXYXu21e6u2A2Z6rgjGusA9dPZ8vmGJtjFdlJ7GZV6YPOnn5NpPChPo2pEHPa5JdSJ1MQTD1zJjnLiYKeGAI8sxGEIRjG1gxOio9gEiydKT2o5K8G1pv1VRb3SouqNjn_/s1600/barbell+lunge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguIcXtt10PHgqxXYXu21e6u2A2Z6rgjGusA9dPZ8vmGJtjFdlJ7GZV6YPOnn5NpPChPo2pEHPa5JdSJ1MQTD1zJjnLiYKeGAI8sxGEIRjG1gxOio9gEiydKT2o5K8G1pv1VRb3SouqNjn_/s320/barbell+lunge.jpg" width="275" /></a></div><br />Do you want to be able to walk, jog, cut your lawn, trim the hedges, run a marathon or play on your league soccer team? Then, you must be healthy and fit. <strong>You must burn body fat and lose weight.</strong> Either way, you will benefit from <strong>My Fitness Hut's Fat Blaster Athletic Training System</strong>. <br /><br /><strong>Don't risk your health and fitness on a quick weight loss program.</strong> Don't sell yourself short and settle for just another fad diet designed to give you short term weight loss. <strong>Fad diets don't work because you can't maintain them---you need a healthy meal plan that you can maintain over time.</strong> <br /><br /><strong>My Fitness Hut's Fat Blaster Athletic Training System is designed to give you the best lean and toned body that you can attain and maintain.</strong> It is the best and quickest way to give you that lean, toned body. <strong>And, according to research, you will also have superior heart health because of the circuit weight training and interval cardio sessions. </strong><br /><br />What about your 6-pack abs? You will have those too (and a strong overall core). My athletic abs training system will give you ripped abs (and core) that are functional in everyday life or in sporting activities. Exercises like medicine ball chops and throws use natural motions and build your core to meet the demands of life or sports.<br /><br />But you will have so much more than that:<br /><br /><strong>At My Fitness Hut, I have designed all of my exercise programs based on a Fat Blaster Athletic Training System. Here are the reasons:</strong><br /><br />1) There is not a better or faster way to sculpt your body. You also get superior heart health. Research and my personal experience backs this up. Just look at an athlete's body. <strong>And, we are all athletes to some extent.</strong> There are varying degrees of athletic training---some techniques are more intense than others. I tailor the program to your fitness level and/or limitations. <br /><br /><strong>2) I am a former NCAA Division I athlete, so I'm not playing a guessing game when it comes to this type of training. I use research, empirical evidence and real-life experience to develop training programs. </strong><br /><br />3) My Fitness Hut's Fat Blaster Athletic Training System doesn't require marathon training sessions. We all have a tight schedule. No circuit weight training session last longer than 1 hour and some sessions are as short as 30 minutes. Interval cardio sessions are about 20 minutes.<br /><br /><b>If you need bodyweight workouts that you can start at your own level, check out the Free download below (it has beginner, intermediate and advanced levels):</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/p/bodyweight-500-metabolic-fat-burner.html#.UeTaltLqmuI">Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts.</a></b> Start shaping your body faster!<br /><br /><b>Mark Dilworth, BA, PES</b><br /><b><a href="http://yourfitnessuniversity.com/">Your Fitness University</a><br /><a href="http://myfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">My Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://herfitnesshut.com/">Her Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://sportsfitnesshut.blogspot.com/">Sports Fitness Hut</a><br /><a href="http://rapidfatlossandsixpackabs.com/">Rapid Fat Loss and Six Pack Abs</a></b><br /><br /><b>Email:</b> mark@yourfitnessuniversity.com<br /><b>Phone:</b> 512-289-8879<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />

Sculpt Your Body For Life Or Sports

Sculpt your body for how you want to live, whether its to live an active, healthy life and/or to play your favorite sport. Just as you set ...

Read more »