<rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"><channel><title>hf</title><description>hf</description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/blog</link><item><title>Make Your Bike a Priority!</title><description><![CDATA[Introducing Our New Range of Priority Bicycles! OUR MISSION IS TO MAKE CYCLING SIMPLER Priority believes that your bike should be ready to ride when you are. We're dedicated to taking the stress out of buying, owning and maintaining a bicycle. CHAIN FREE Our Bicycles feature a grease-free belt rather than a messy chain. Usually only found on high-end performance bikes, these belt drives are hassle & maintenance free. No need to worry about ruining your favourite pair of pants! RUST FREE<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_a95172a82f4d403189bb6fbe83fa58b2.png"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/09/04/Make-Your-Bike-a-Priority</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/09/04/Make-Your-Bike-a-Priority</guid><pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2015 04:32:33 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_a95172a82f4d403189bb6fbe83fa58b2.png"/><div> Introducing Our New Range of Priority Bicycles!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_9cc0e7a0624842e9ac97e316c6a562e4.jpg"/><div>OUR MISSION IS TO MAKE CYCLING SIMPLER</div><div>Priority believes that your bike should be ready to ride when you are. We're dedicated to taking the stress out of buying, owning and maintaining a bicycle. </div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bIgSlrsjU4s"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_3187974d265d4dfeb700beed66065ed1.png"/><div>CHAIN FREE</div><div>Our Bicycles feature a grease-free belt rather than a messy chain. Usually only found on high-end performance bikes, these belt drives are hassle &amp; maintenance free. No need to worry about ruining your favourite pair of pants!</div><div>RUST FREE</div><div>Priority's Bicycles are built from an oversized aluminium frame, far lighter than steel and rust free. Our bicycles are built to stand the test of time and are easy to carry up a flight of stairs, lift into a rack or move in and out of parking.</div><div>WORRY FREE</div><div>Priority Bicycles are designed to get you on the road quickly and easily with everything you need included; a tire pump, kickstand, water bottle cage, all with a comfortable seat and puncture-resistant tires. Our bikes assemble in simple steps that take minutes.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_313d599786754fee8adb516b7c5229fa.jpeg"/><div><a href="http://www.prioritybicycles.com.au">CLICK HERE</a>to learn more about Priority Bicycles </div><div>or contact us by phone or email!</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Download Your FREE Conditioning Circuit Training Programs!</title><description><![CDATA[Everyday life requires a certain amount of strength, balance, and cardiovascular capacity. By devoting the workout time necessary to elevate your heart rate while strengthening your core and toning your muscles, you will experience greater success and enjoy your daily activities even more. With this in mind we bring you a FREE three Part Conditioning Circuit Program courtesy of FreeMotion Fitness! Phase 1 - Each phase of this three-part training program will build on the solid foundation<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_8dac9e047b94426380f81f924e6a02b2.png"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/08/07/Download-Your-FREE-Conditioning-Circuit-Training-Programs</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/08/07/Download-Your-FREE-Conditioning-Circuit-Training-Programs</guid><pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2015 02:19:09 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Everyday life requires a certain amount of strength, balance, and cardiovascular capacity. By devoting the workout time necessary to elevate your heart rate while strengthening your core and toning your muscles, you will experience greater success and enjoy your daily activities even more. With this in mind we bring you a FREE three Part Conditioning Circuit Program courtesy of FreeMotion Fitness!</div><div><div>Phase 1 - Each phase of this three-part training program will build on the solid foundation established here in Phase 1 - </div><div>Phase 2 - This second of three phases will include a number of new exercises as well as increase the overall intensity to help take your conditioning to the next level. - </div><div>Phase 3 - The third phase will push your limits in order to achieve new and higher levels of performance - </div></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_8dac9e047b94426380f81f924e6a02b2.png"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Free Rip:60 Training Programs</title><description><![CDATA[Make the most of your rip:60 with these free downloadable workout programs: Upper 40s Tabata Lower Body Core and Cardio Flexibility Extreme Athlete Baseball Aging Population Need a rip:60? CLICK HERE to buy online now!<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_cdf9f7abe0d4459fa37eaecb59b03653.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/24/Free-Rip60-Training-Programs</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/24/Free-Rip60-Training-Programs</guid><pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2015 02:57:42 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Make the most of your rip:60 with these free downloadable workout programs:</div><div><a href="http://www.hf.com.au/#!shop-rip60/c11n5">Need a rip:60? CLICK HERE to buy online now!</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_cdf9f7abe0d4459fa37eaecb59b03653.jpg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>We're On Instagram! Join Us For a Chance to Win!</title><description><![CDATA[We're excited to announce that we've joined Instagram! To celebrate, we're giving you chance to win a rip:60 Club Trainer Pack, valued at $198. All you have to do is: 1. Follow us on Instagram @hfindustries 2. Share your best fitspo image featuring an HF Industries product and hashtag #hfindustries Our favourite photo in this category will win a rip:60 Club Trainer Pack! Competition open to Australian residents and ends 14/08/15.<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_33d69a5b72564f569cd0db616edde826.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/17/Were-On-Instagram-Join-Us-For-a-Chance-to-Win</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/17/Were-On-Instagram-Join-Us-For-a-Chance-to-Win</guid><pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2015 02:28:28 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>We're excited to announce that we've joined Instagram! </div><div> To celebrate, we're giving you chance to win a rip:60 Club Trainer Pack, valued at $198.</div><div>All you have to do is:</div><div>1. Follow us on Instagram @hfindustries </div><div> 2. Share your best fitspo image featuring an HF Industries product and hashtag #hfindustries</div><div>Our favourite photo in this category will win a rip:60 Club Trainer Pack! Competition open to Australian residents and ends 14/08/15. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_33d69a5b72564f569cd0db616edde826.jpg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Lady Gaga Uses Our Allegro Reformer!</title><description><![CDATA[We were so excited to see this post from Lady Gaga on Facebook this week! Seems she is using our Balanced Body Allegro Reformer for rehabilitation after surgery. CLICK HERE to see the full post!<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_ba9e3553850d4542979dfc3a4e65635e.png"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/09/Lady-Gaga-Uses-Our-Allegro-Reformer</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/09/Lady-Gaga-Uses-Our-Allegro-Reformer</guid><pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2015 04:53:52 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>We were so excited to see this post from Lady Gaga on Facebook this week! Seems she is using our Balanced Body Allegro Reformer for rehabilitation after surgery. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ladygaga/posts/10153590145849574">CLICK HERE</a>to see the full post!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_ba9e3553850d4542979dfc3a4e65635e.png"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Total Body Pop-Up Workout with 
SurfSet Trainer Mike Hartwick</title><description><![CDATA[It may be the middle of Winter, but that doesn't mean we're not already thinking about Summer! With the Winter Solistice behind us, we are on our way back to longer days and warmer temps! Be ready for the beach days ahead with this effective total body routine that utilises pop ups and burpies for a stronger core (especially useful if you're a into Stand-Up Paddle Boarding!).<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/kau0u7N24iE/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/09/Total-Body-PopUp-Workout-with-SurfSet-Trainer-Mike-Hartwick</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/07/09/Total-Body-PopUp-Workout-with-SurfSet-Trainer-Mike-Hartwick</guid><pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2015 04:50:37 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>It may be the middle of Winter, but that doesn't mean we're not already thinking about Summer! With the Winter Solistice behind us, we are on our way back to longer days and warmer temps! Be ready for the beach days ahead with this effective total body routine that utilises pop ups and burpies for a stronger core (especially useful if you're a into Stand-Up Paddle Boarding!).</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kau0u7N24iE"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Activate and Stretch Your Core Golf Muscles - Watch Our FREE 25 Minute ActivMotion Bar Golf Wokout!</title><description><![CDATA[Give yourself an edge on the course with workouts that lengthen and strengthen the exact same muscles you use when playing golf. Whether you play for fun or professionally, the ActivMotion Bar helps you drive farther, strike more accurately and shave strokes from your game. Create core stability, improve coordination and generate momentum Enhance your ability to transfer power through your swing Multiple weight options-ideal for players at any level Easy to use, easy to store and easy to enhance<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_7d966b89d8864f1d88fc3424cb3e778c.png"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/Activate-and-Stretch-Your-Core-Golf-Muscles-Watch-Our-FREE-25-Minute-ActivMotion-Bar-Golf-Wokout</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/Activate-and-Stretch-Your-Core-Golf-Muscles-Watch-Our-FREE-25-Minute-ActivMotion-Bar-Golf-Wokout</guid><pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2015 01:44:45 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_7d966b89d8864f1d88fc3424cb3e778c.png"/><div>Give yourself an edge on the course with workouts that lengthen and strengthen the exact same muscles you use when playing golf. Whether you play for fun or professionally, the ActivMotion Bar helps you drive farther, strike more accurately and shave strokes from your game.</div><div>Create core stability, improve coordination and generate momentumEnhance your ability to transfer power through your swingMultiple weight options-ideal for players at any levelEasy to use, easy to store and easy to enhance your game</div><div>Watch This FREE 25 Minute ActivMotion Bar Golf Fitness Workout </div><div>for some Great Training Ideas!</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1aPOkd--v-o"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Shake Up Your Routine! Have Fun and Get Results!</title><description><![CDATA[Everyone's talking about the awesome workout you get when using one of our SurfSet boards! It's challenging and so much fun, you'll discover mucsles you never knew you had (most likely of the stabiliser variety!!). In this short video, Mike Hartwick, the creator of Surfset, demonstrates a three-minute balance workout that will strengthen your core and improve your balance, stability and flexibility: Think it looks easy? Well think again! Those of us crazy enough to have tried the Insanity<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/oh9fUQdQEMw/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/Shake-Up-Your-Routine-Have-Fun-and-Get-Results</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/Shake-Up-Your-Routine-Have-Fun-and-Get-Results</guid><pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2015 01:39:26 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Everyone's talking about the awesome workout you get when using one of our SurfSet boards! It's challenging and so much fun, you'll discover mucsles you never knew you had (most likely of the stabiliser variety!!). </div><div>In this short video, Mike Hartwick, the creator of Surfset, demonstrates a three-minute balance workout that will strengthen your core and improve your balance, stability and flexibility:</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oh9fUQdQEMw"/><div>Think it looks easy? Well think again! Those of us crazy enough to have tried the Insanity workout will be familiar with Shaun T (and maybe some of us who won't admit to trying Hip Hop Abs!). We know this is one fit guy! See Shaun step outside his comfort zone and struggle slightly as he tries to find his balance on our SurfSet Board:</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R_gxrtyQs6A"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>SurfSet Workout and Review at Sweat Republic, SF</title><description><![CDATA[Zenrez Lifestyle Athlete Stephanie Ring takes a SurfSet class at Sweat Republic located in San Francisco's Marina District.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/jFnbMEvEk8k/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/SurfSet-Workout-and-Review-at-Sweat-Republic-SF</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/SurfSet-Workout-and-Review-at-Sweat-Republic-SF</guid><pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2015 01:37:22 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Zenrez Lifestyle Athlete Stephanie Ring takes a SurfSet class at Sweat Republic located in San Francisco's Marina District.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jFnbMEvEk8k"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Choosing a Smarter Kind of Treadmill -
Demonstrated Benefits of Incline Training</title><description><![CDATA[Most of us will make use of a treadmill at some point in our training regime, whether it is in training our own bodies or that of a client. In a society where most of us are incredibly time-poor, getting maximum benefit from our efforts in exercising is a priority. Why not consider then making the simply switch from the standard treadmill to an Incline Trainer. An Incline Trainer can offer all the function of a standard treadmill, but with the added benefit of 30% incline and- 3% decline, offers<img src="https://i.vimeocdn.com/video/523085399_640.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/Choosing-a-Smarter-Kind-of-Treadmill-Demonstrated-Benefits-of-Incline-Training</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/06/26/Choosing-a-Smarter-Kind-of-Treadmill-Demonstrated-Benefits-of-Incline-Training</guid><pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2015 01:36:29 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Most of us will make use of a treadmill at some point in our training regime, whether it is in training our own bodies or that of a client. In a society where most of us are incredibly time-poor, getting maximum benefit from our efforts in exercising is a priority. Why not consider then making the simply switch from the standard treadmill to an Incline Trainer.</div><div>An Incline Trainer can offer all the function of a standard treadmill, but with the added benefit of 30% incline and- 3% decline, offers greater versatility, and in many cases, enhanced results.</div><div>Alongside the principles of exercise bioenergetics, research has demonstrated the valuable benefits of incline training including:</div><div>Increased heart rate and cardiovascular demand without increasing speed to high levels enabling exercisers to increase cardiovascular fitness without increasing risk of treadmill injuryIncreased muscular demands of walking and running enabling a muscular fitness workout during cardiovascular exerciseIncreased ability to burn fat through increased muscular activity at a slower speeds accelerating weight loss</div><div>Join FreeMotion Director of Education Natalie Vetica in this overview of the Incline Trainer to learn more about this great machine: </div><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/117842786"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>What's In Your Budget?</title><description><![CDATA[The Right Time for Business to Invest As many of you would now be aware, the Accelerated Depreciation component of the proposed 2015 Budget may mean small businesses can enjoy an immediate tax deduction for any individual assets they buy costing less than $20,000*. Further this $20,000 limit applies to each individual item. Small businesses can apply this $20,000 rule to as many individual items as they wish. These arrangements start from Budget night and continue until the end of June 2017*.<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_6acbe47364be44ef97d48bc27993bc99.png"/>]]></description><dc:creator>HF Industries</dc:creator><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/05/15/Whats-In-Your-Budget</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/05/15/Whats-In-Your-Budget</guid><pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2015 05:25:38 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The Right Time for Business to Invest</div><div>As many of you would now be aware, the Accelerated Depreciation component of the proposed 2015 Budget may mean small businesses can enjoy an immediate tax deduction for any individual assets they buy costing less than $20,000*.</div><div>Further this $20,000 limit applies to each individual item. Small businesses can apply this $20,000 rule to as many individual items as they wish. These arrangements start from Budget night and continue until the end of June 2017*.</div><div><a href="http://www.budget.gov.au/2015-16/content/highlights/jobsandsmallbusiness.html">Read more about the 2015 Budget Here</a></div><div>With this in mind, why not start thinking of what's in your budget for 2015 and beyond! Here are just a few ideas.......</div><div>Check out our website and contact us for a quotation today!</div><div>* Australian Government 2015 Budget, Jobs and Small Business - http://www.budget.gov.au/2015-16/content/highlights/jobsandsmallbusiness.html </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Why Standard Cable Attachments May Cause Pain and Injury</title><description><![CDATA[Fitness handles and cable attachments are the most important part of any cable exercise machine. They are the interface between human and machine because they dictate the relationship between movement and resistance. Yet these critical components have been grossly neglected by the fitness equipment industry. No other natural or manmade mechanism compares to the functional versatility of the upper limbs of the human body. Our hands, wrists, arms and shoulders all affect some sort of rotational<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_5624cd7c24a448bc87646f1f27f9a4ee.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Trak Fitness USA</dc:creator><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/05/01/Why-Standard-Cable-Attachments-May-Cause-Pain-and-Injury</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/05/01/Why-Standard-Cable-Attachments-May-Cause-Pain-and-Injury</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2015 00:53:14 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Fitness handles and cable attachments are the most important part of any cable exercise machine. They are the interface between human and machine because they dictate the relationship between movement and resistance. Yet these critical components have been grossly neglected by the fitness equipment industry. </div><div>No other natural or manmade mechanism compares to the functional versatility of the upper limbs of the human body. Our hands, wrists, arms and shoulders all affect some sort of rotational movement to provide an infinite range of motion.</div><div>To properly and effectively develop the upper body one must:</div><div>Work muscles through their full range of motion by incorporating rotational movements. Develop natural muscular firing patterns. Avoid unnatural stress on joints and ligaments.</div><div>Most manufacturers of cable exercise equipment provide low cost cable handles and attachments. that restrict natural functional movement and place unnatural stress on joints and ligaments. Using these cable attachments limits muscular development, ingrains unnatural muscular firing patterns and can cause repetitive stress injury, because they lock the users hands, arms and shoulders in a fixed orientation to the line of resistance. These restrictions also limit the types of exercises that can be performed and the overall functionality of cable machines.</div><div>The patented design of Trak Fitness cable attachments includes multiple axis of rotation which allow unrestricted movement during any exercise. Users can rotate their hands, arms and shoulders through multiple planes of motion throughout any exercise. By allowing unrestricted movement, Trak Fitness cable attachments enable proper muscular development, promote natural muscular firing patterns and reduce potential injury by eliminating unnatural stress on joints and ligaments. Trak Fitness cable attachments substantially improve the functionality and versatility of any cable exercise machine.</div><div>It's no surprise that people who use Trak Fitness handles and cable attachments refuse to return to the typical low cost handles that pervade the fitness industry today.</div><div><a href="http://www.hf.com.au/#!trak-handle-pro/c1chf">Click here to learn more about Trak Handles Products&gt;&gt;</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>3 Cool Facts About Cable Training</title><description><![CDATA[Functional exercise is designed to increase muscle strength, flexibility, balance, agility and coordination. By performing exercises that closely resemble everyday movements or sport-specific actions, the body will increase its functional strength in performing these actions. Cable machines are one of the best options for training in this way. Read 3 Cool Facts About Cable Training Here.<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_b3a352277acf45e1b01961ec3f646de1.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/03/13/3-Cool-Facts-About-Cable-Training</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/03/13/3-Cool-Facts-About-Cable-Training</guid><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2015 04:31:42 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Functional exercise is designed to increase muscle strength, flexibility, balance, agility and coordination. By performing exercises that closely resemble everyday movements or sport-specific actions, the body will increase its functional strength in performing these actions. Cable machines are one of the best options for training in this way.</div><div><a href="http://freemotionfit.com/2015/01/05/increase-strength-by-58-percent-simply-by-doing-this/">Read 3 Cool Facts About Cable Training Here.</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Member Retention - 
Keep Your Customers Excited and Engaged with Challenges and Competitions!</title><description><![CDATA[Attracting new members can be tough, keeping the ones you already have can be even tougher! With all the pressures that come with running a business, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of client morale. So how can we keep our customers coming back for more? Promotions and events are effective tools of member retention, but why not take things one step further and bring out their inner competitor? Challenges and competions are a great way to motivate and excite members, trainers and staff!<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/PAP4cnpRjx8/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>HF Industries</dc:creator><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/03/10/Member-Retention-Keep-Your-Customers-Excited-and-Engaged-with-Challenges-and-Competitions</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/03/10/Member-Retention-Keep-Your-Customers-Excited-and-Engaged-with-Challenges-and-Competitions</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2015 01:39:53 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Attracting new members can be tough, keeping the ones you already have can be even tougher! With all the pressures that come with running a business, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of client morale.</div><div>So how can we keep our customers coming back for more?</div><div>Promotions and events are effective tools of member retention, but why not take things one step further and bring out their inner competitor? Challenges and competions are a great way to motivate and excite members, trainers and staff! Think of a fun physical competion or challenge you could run for your members, with a prize for the winner or winners. Promote the event in your facility, through your trainers and on social media, perhaps even offer rewards for 'sharing' the competiton details to expand your reach (don't underestimate the power of the share!). Not only will you be keeping your members happy, you'll also be generating great buzz around your facility! Need some inspiration? Check out these awesome challenge ideas:</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3RxHxn02sTM"/><div> Marpo UFC Gym Challenge</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PAP4cnpRjx8"/><div>FreeMotion EVEREST Challenge</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>MyoFascial Release Techniques For Runners</title><description><![CDATA[What is MyoFascial Release? Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique often used in massage as well as with foam rollers. The technique focuses on pain believed to arise from myofascial tissues — the tough membranes that wrap, connect and support your muscles. Theoretically, myofascial pain differs from other types of pain because it originates in “trigger points,” which are related to stiff, anchored areas within the myofascia. How does Myofascial release help: • Corrects muscle<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_783ff70c7f7e45d99cac415757db10bd.png"/>]]></description><dc:creator>FreeMotion Fitness</dc:creator><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/03/05/MyoFascial-Release-Techniques-For-Runners</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/03/05/MyoFascial-Release-Techniques-For-Runners</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2015 01:38:38 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>What is MyoFascial Release?</div><div>Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique often used in massage as well as with foam rollers. The technique focuses on pain believed to arise from myofascial tissues — the tough membranes that wrap, connect and support your muscles. Theoretically, myofascial pain differs from other types of pain because it originates in “trigger points,” which are related to stiff, anchored areas within the myofascia.</div><div>How does Myofascial release help:</div><div>• Corrects muscle imbalances • Improves joint range of motion • Relieves muscle soreness and joint stress • Decreases neuromuscular hypertonicity (tension) • Increases extensibility of musculotendinous junction • Improves neuromuscular efficiency • Maintains normal functional muscular length</div><div>General guidelines:</div><div>Hold each position 1-2 minutes for each side (when applicable). If pain is reported, stop rolling and REST on the painful areas for 30-45 seconds.</div><div>Perform 5-10 minutes before and after your run:</div><div>• Calves • IT Band • Hamstrings • Quads • Piriformis • Mid Back -Rhomboids</div><div>Need a Foam Roller?</div><div>Article Source: FreeMotion Fit</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>5 Common Training Mistakes</title><description><![CDATA[Repost from FreeMotionFit So you’ve been working out 3 days a week and feel pretty good about yourself! You’ve even seen the the numbers on the scale drop so you know your training is working! Way to go! Just be sure to keep your training in check by not making these common mistakes: 1. NO WARM UP – Your nervous system, cardiovascular system and muscular system need to wake up in order to keep your body safe. Keep it simple with a 5 – 10 minute walk at a slight incline and without holding on.]]></description><dc:creator>Maureen Evanoff</dc:creator><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/02/18/5-Common-Training-Mistakes</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/02/18/5-Common-Training-Mistakes</guid><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2015 00:52:42 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Repost from FreeMotionFit</div><div>So you’ve been working out 3 days a week and feel pretty good about yourself! You’ve even seen the the numbers on the scale drop so you know your training is working! Way to go! Just be sure to keep your training in check by not making these common mistakes:</div><div>1. NO WARM UP – Your nervous system, cardiovascular system and muscular system need to wake up in order to keep your body safe. Keep it simple with a 5 – 10 minute walk at a slight incline and without holding on. Your body temperature will increase along with your blood flow to your muscles. Remember it’s a warm up and not a workout!</div><div>2. LOW INTENSITY – Exercise is stress to the body. There needs to be intensity in order to get results. Take inventory of your fatigue frequently throughout your training session and make sure you’re working in a moderate to vigorous level.</div><div>3. OUT OF BALANCE – As with everything in life, there needs to be balance in your exercise too! Think opposing muscle groups like chest and back, biceps and triceps, quadriceps and hamstrings, lower abdominal and lower back for instance. Also keep in mind your whole health. Are you strong in all disciplines of fitness, strength, endurance, flexibility, balance and agility?</div><div>4. NO VARIETY – If you always do the same program you will only be fit in that way! Mix it all up! Use cable based equipment as well as medicine balls and dumbbells. Walk at an incline and ride your bike. Take a yoga class and use a foam roller. Exercise three-dimensionally, move forward and backward, laterally and rotate. Train the way you were designed to move!</div><div>5. NO STRETCHING – Most people skip this part! Stretching feels good and is one of the best things for your body for recovery and keeping your range of motion. Find what works best for you, whether it is yoga, elastic bands, self-myofascial release with a foam roller or even your old school straddle stretch. It will keep you healthy for years to come!</div><div>Maureen Evanoff FreeMotion Master Coach NASM Certified Personal Trainer Certified Yoga Fit Instructor</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>5 Killer Rip:60 Moves</title><description><![CDATA[Repost from: www.freemotionfit.com Harness the power of combo movements and get more muscles working in less time for better results! 1. Rip:60 Squat to Squat Jump: Grab your Rip:60 and assume a shoulder width stance, the straps should be loose in your hand your elbows should be underneath your shoulders, perform a deep squat with your spine remaining tall and your weight on your heels, as you descend don’t come up onto your toes, this will force the stress from your hips to your knees. On your<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_2c42f81dfec844afb40887c15da23002.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Drew Massey, FreeMotion Master Coach</dc:creator><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/02/12/5-Killer-Rip60-Moves</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2015/02/12/5-Killer-Rip60-Moves</guid><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2015 00:14:01 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Repost from: www.freemotionfit.com </div><div>Harness the power of combo movements and get more muscles working in less time for better results!</div><div>1. Rip:60 Squat to Squat Jump: Grab your Rip:60 and assume a shoulder width stance, the straps should be loose in your hand your elbows should be underneath your shoulders, perform a deep squat with your spine remaining tall and your weight on your heels, as you descend don’t come up onto your toes, this will force the stress from your hips to your knees. On your next rep, descend into your squat and blast off the ground performing a squat jump. You will alternate between a bodyweight squat and bodyweight squat jump for reps or an allotted amount of time.</div><div>2. Rip:60 Chest press to Fall Away: This move combines pushing and direct core work. Face away from the attachment point and grab your straps and get into a “suspended” push up position, arms should be straight with wrist directly in line with shoulders, your body should be in a straight line from ear to ankle. Perform a chest press by lowering your body towards the handles to a point where your hands are just in front of your rib cage. Push away from the handles back into starting position. Then, keeping your arms straight, use the Rip:60 as you would an ab wheel and “fall away from the attachment, ending in a position where arms are almost completely overhead. Keeping your arms straight and abs tight return to starting position.</div><div>3. Rip:60 Rhomboid Row to Bicep Curl: Position your Rip:60 so that the handles are right at waist level. Grab the Straps and lean away from the attachment point your chest should be facing the Cam Buckle. With your body in a straight line from the ear to the ankle, perform a rowing action. Lower yourself to starting position then perform a bicep curl. The key to the curl is to only flex the elbows, keep your upper arm still so that it remains perpendicular to your torso.</div><div>4. Rear Foot Elevated Split Squat &amp; Over Head Press: Set up your Rip:60 into single handle position. For this exercise you will need some additional equipment in the form or medicine ball, dumbbells, kettlebells, etc. Place one foot in the single handle and face away from the attachment point. Pick up your med-ball, kettlebell or dumbbells and put them into a position where you can press them overhead. With one foot in the strap and the other directly underneath your hip, perform a split squat by lowering yourself until your thigh is just parallel to the floor. It helps to push your shoestrings of the back leg (the one that is in the strap) into the strap to create more stability. Return to starting position by pushing your foot into the floor and standing up. Next perform an overhead press with the equipment that you chose. Return to starting position and perform the next rep. You will do equal number of reps on each leg.</div><div>5. Lateral Lunge to Curtsy lunge Combo: This combines two unique leg movements and multiple planes of motion. Grab the Straps with your feet should width apart and elbows directly under shoulders. With your right leg step to your right and perform a lateral lunge sitting your hips back and down as if sitting onto a bucket. The left leg should remain straight with your toes pointing straight ahead. Next, push back into starting position with the right leg except allow the right leg to cross over the left leg as if performing a curtsy. Alternate the lateral lunge with the curtsy lunge on the right leg for prescribed reps or time. Repeat on Left leg.</div><div>So, there you have it. 5 killer combo moves that you can use to change up your routine. These moves work all of your major muscle groups and hits all of the planes of motion. Perform each exercise for a certain number of reps or work for a certain amount of time and then move to next exercise taking as much rest as needed. Perform these exercises back to back in circuit fashion. Repeat the circuit 4-6 times for a great total body movement based routine.</div><div>Drew Massey FreeMotion Master Coach MS, NSCA-CTP, PES, USAW, RKC Director of Training GameTime Sports and Training</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>SandBell Group Fitness</title><description><![CDATA[Check out this SandBell Group Exercise Class Program Video for more ideas on what you can do with SandBells!<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/cFAHcm-4uFA/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/11/24/SandBell-Group-Fitness</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/11/24/SandBell-Group-Fitness</guid><pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2014 08:23:02 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Check out this SandBell Group Exercise Class Program Video for more ideas on what you can do with SandBells!</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cFAHcm-4uFA"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Do You Offer Kids Programs at Your Facility?</title><description><![CDATA[Why not try something fun and effective with SandBell® Group Games for Kids! Group fitness classes have become all the rage over the last several years. These fun, interactive classes take the 'grudge' out of working out and get participants burning calories and strengthening their bodies while socializing, dancing, moving, and having a good time. The same reason that adults enjoy group fitness classes—they make fitness fun—is the same reason that kids enjoy being active, they have fun while<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/M8U33Lzm7dQ/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/11/13/Do-You-Offer-Kids-Programs-at-Your-Facility</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/11/13/Do-You-Offer-Kids-Programs-at-Your-Facility</guid><pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2014 23:24:24 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Why not try something fun and effective with SandBell® Group Games for Kids!</div><div>Group fitness classes have become all the rage over the last several years. These fun, interactive classes take the 'grudge' out of working out and get participants burning calories and strengthening their bodies while socializing, dancing, moving, and having a good time. The same reason that adults enjoy group fitness classes—they make fitness fun—is the same reason that kids enjoy being active, they have fun while running around and playing with their friends and teammates.</div><div>In today's P.E. Drill Thrill, we bring you two SandBell group games that make fitness FUN. Both games have strength-training and cardio components to safely challenge muscles and elevate the heart rate.</div><div>As adults, we may think the reasons we enjoy fitness are completely different than those of a child. Wrong! As previously mentioned, the main reason for the popularity of group fitness classes is the same reason why kids love to play and be active. Nearly everyone, young and old, enjoys exercise more when it's done in a group setting and the &quot;work&quot; part of working out is disguised by human interaction and socialization, a fun group setting, music, and engaging programming.</div><div>It's important for parents, coaches and teachers to remember that our reasons for enjoying fitness may not be that different from our kids. In order to make fitness fun, especially in the K-12 P.E. setting, just take the reasons that you enjoy fitness--human interaction, socialization, fun music and engaging programming--and apply those to games and activities for your kids or students.</div><div>The first game in today's video, Gotcha-See Ya, is a game of tag with a strength-training twist. The second game, Fire Brigade, has kids working together to pass the SandBell from one end of the gym to the other as fast as they can without dropping the SandBell. Both games involve socialization, and engaging programming, which serve to disguise the &quot;work&quot; in these workout games and make fitness fun!</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M8U33Lzm7dQ"/><div>Gotcha-See Ya</div><div>For every 5 students, you need 2 light-weight SandBells. Kids should be able to safely hold the SandBell while running. Designate 2 students, or however many SandBells per students there are, to be &quot;taggers&quot;. When the game begins, taggers run around and try to tag another student with the SandBell. Once a student is tagged, they take the SandBell from the tagger, do 2 SandBell Slams, and then run around and tag another student.</div><div>Fire Brigade</div><div>Line up a group of 5-7 students at one end of the gym, and give a SandBell to the first student in line. When the game begins, the first student in line passes the SandBell over their head to the student behind them and then runs to the back of the line. The student with the SandBell passes the SandBell over their head to the student behind them, runs to the back of the line, and so on. Challenge kids to see how quickly they can &quot;move their line&quot; from one end of the gym to the other without dropping the SandBell. You can also designate several lines of kids and have each line race to see which team can get to the other end of the gym first.</div><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFy06-rNAqP5a1jInxtZqXRZNZ96XXx8l">CLICK HERE</a>for more Hyperwear K-12 P.E. &amp; Youth Athlete SandBell® Games and Exercises.</div><div>Article care of HyperWear USA.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Our New Tour de France Bike is a Must Have!</title><description><![CDATA[If You Only Need One Bike, It's the NEW Tour de France Bike from FreeMotion Fitness! Introducing the Tour de France Bike from FreeMotion Fitness TOUCH SCREEN CONSOLE FEATURING IFIT® AND GOOGLE MAPS™ ' The high-resolution touch screen console gives riders multiple screen options. iFit® enables riders to upload and track their personal workout data, and Google Maps™ provides an endless supply of real-time, interactive rides to keep you engaged and excited for their next adventure. INCLINE/DECLINE<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_3472a9fddc284d79b49a6c9e90e43e2e.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/11/05/Our-New-Tour-de-France-Bike-is-a-Must-Have</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/11/05/Our-New-Tour-de-France-Bike-is-a-Must-Have</guid><pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2014 00:02:02 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>If You Only Need One Bike, It's the </div><div>NEW Tour de France Bike from </div><div>FreeMotion Fitness!</div><div>Introducing the Tour de France Bike from FreeMotion Fitness</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8Nri8jKPn1c"/><div>TOUCH SCREEN CONSOLE FEATURING IFIT® AND GOOGLE MAPS™ ' The high-resolution touch screen console gives riders multiple screen options. iFit® enables riders to upload and track their personal workout data, and Google Maps™ provides an endless supply of real-time, interactive rides to keep you engaged and excited for their next adventure.</div><div>INCLINE/DECLINE ' Equipped with a motorized terrain replicating feature controlled by built-in video workouts, The Tour de France bike seamlessly declines and inclines from-10% to +20% as the ride topography changes.</div><div>EDDY CURRENT MAGNETIC RESISTANCE ' Eddy current magnets provide smooth, adequate resistance to match the steepest of hills. Nothing touches the flywheel so the system is maintenance free and without need for</div><div>replacement parts.</div><div>CARBON DRIVE™ SYSTEM ' This maintenance free carbon drive system delivers the quiet, smooth ride of a belt drive but with the strength and efficiency of a chain drive. The combination of a 5:1 gear ratio, perimeter weighted flywheel, and freewheel feature give the Tour de France bike the smoothest, most realistic outdoor-bike feel.</div><div>WATTS MEASUREMENT ' Now you can track your training intensity like the pros and fine-tune your power output for a better benchmark performance. The built-in power meter displays power output (watts) for the purest indication of your cycling performance. The FreeMotion Tour de France bike individually calibrates the power display for precision readouts.</div><div>DUAL-SIDED PEDALS WITH SPD ' Compatible with the majority of cycling-appropriate shoes, these dual-sided pedals accommodate both high-performance SPD cleats and traditional fitness shoes.</div><div>ALUMINUM FRAME ' Resistant to rust, this lightweight aluminium frame is maintenance friendly and easy to move between classes. All hardware is hidden stainless steel to further prevent rust from salty conditions.</div><div>Contact us for more information on the NEW Tour de France bike from FreeMotion Fitness!</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>FreeMotion HIIT Training</title><description><![CDATA[FreeMotion HIIT Training (courtesy of FreeMotion Fitness) Many people use the excuse of not having enough time in a day to exercise. With all the research and positive results found from HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) there is no excuse! All you need is less than 30 minutes a day to make a big difference in the way you look and feel. What is HIIT Training? HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training. Wikipedia defines HIIT as an “enhanced form of interval training, an exercise<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/ZytPpOgbRCI/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/10/23/FreeMotion-HIIT-Training</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/10/23/FreeMotion-HIIT-Training</guid><pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2014 23:20:25 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>FreeMotion HIIT Training (courtesy of FreeMotion Fitness)</div><div>Many people use the excuse of not having enough time in a day to exercise. With all the research and positive results found from HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) there is no excuse! All you need is less than 30 minutes a day to make a big difference in the way you look and feel.</div><div>What is HIIT Training?</div><div>HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training. Wikipedia defines HIIT as an “enhanced form of interval training, an exercise strategy alternating periods of short intense anaerobic exercise with less-intense recovery periods. HIIT is a form of cardiovascular exercise. Usual HIIT sessions may vary from 4–30 minutes. These short, intense workouts provide improved athletic capacity and condition, improved glucose metabolism, and improved fat burning.”</div><div>Although there is not a specific time or regimen used, an effective formula is 2:1 work to recovery ratio. This is the ratio used for the FreeMotion Fitness LIVE AXIS 16 minute HIIT workout. The workout consists of 40 seconds of work with 20 seconds of rest. Each exercise utilizes the LIVE AXIS High and Low pull; incorporating compound movements which targets multiple muscle groups encouraging an increased calorie burn and greater cardiovascular gains.</div><div>Who would benefit the most from HIIT Training?</div><div>Almost anyone can benefit from improved fat burning, increased cardiovascular capacity, enhanced coordination, and improved glucose metabolism! There is no wonder why all the craze right now in the fitness industry surrounds this type of training. Results in less time appeals to everyone and HIIT can benefit an individual with the goal of muscle gain or weight loss.</div><div>What kind of results can you expect?</div><div>1. Accelerated FAT LOSS</div><div>2. Increased fitness in Less Time</div><div>3. Supercharged Metabolism because of a boosted resting metabolism</div><div>4. Improved Endurance</div><div>5. Better Sleep</div><div>6. Research suggests and increased sharpness of mind</div><div>7. Increased sports performance</div><div>The list goes on and on!</div><div>FreeMotion Fitness LIVE AXIS High and Low Pull HIIT Workout</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZytPpOgbRCI"/><div>Exercise 1. Reverse lunge with pull on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 2. Alternating Unilateral Press on Low Pull</div><div>Exercise 3. Alternating reverse lunge to Tricep Extension on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 4. Low to High Alternating Rotation on Low Pull </div><div>Exercise 5. Rhomboid pull to Deep Squat on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 6. Alternating Lunge to Bicep Curl on Low Pull</div><div>Exercise 7. Warrior 3 to Straight arm Pull down on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 8. Split leg stance to Alternating push on Low Pull</div><div>Exercise 9. Left arm Pull to Left Internal hip Rotation on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 10. Lateral Squat Jump with Pull on Low Pull</div><div>Exercise 11. Right arm pull to Right Internal Hip rotation on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 12. Overhead Tricep Press with knee drive on Low Pull</div><div>Exercise 13. Alternating High to Low Rotation on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 14. Squat to Upright Row on Low Pull</div><div>Exercise 15. Unilateral pull (palms up) with alternating reverse lunge on High Pull</div><div>Exercise 16. Single Leg Balance Incline Chest Fly on Low Pull</div><div>40 Seconds of Work 20 Seconds Rest/Transition</div><div>* The material (including without limitation, and advice and/or recommendations) in this guide is provided solely as a general educational and informational purpose. It is neither medical nor healthcare advice for any individual problem. It is also not intended to be used for medical treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers regarding your particular situation. FreeMotion Fitness, its employees, officers, agents (including HF Industries), disclaim any and all liability or loss in connection with the materials contained in this guide, any exercises and instructions contained or described in this guide, or any use of this material or any apparatus or equipment.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Using Gym Equipment for Pilates Based Movement</title><description><![CDATA[Using Gym Equipment for Pilates-based Movement By Jessica Cordero As seen in the Spring 2010 Balanced Body Pilates COREterly Pilates instructors have long used balls, bands and rings to add variety and increased resistance to their programming. Here are ways to use items you might already have on hand that can immediately be added to a Pilates class. Hand weights or weighted balls, the BOSU trainer and kettlebells are tools that are making their way into Pilates studios and classes to help users<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_44c2f3bde2cb4e89afc258a5ddc86aa4.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/10/17/Using-Gym-Equipment-for-Pilates-Based-Movement</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/10/17/Using-Gym-Equipment-for-Pilates-Based-Movement</guid><pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2014 01:45:42 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Using Gym Equipment for Pilates-based Movement</div><div>By Jessica Cordero As seen in the Spring 2010 Balanced Body Pilates COREterly</div><div>Pilates instructors have long used balls, bands and rings to add variety and increased resistance to their programming. Here are ways to use items you might already have on hand that can immediately be added to a Pilates class. Hand weights or weighted balls, the BOSU trainer and kettlebells are tools that are making their way into Pilates studios and classes to help users break through and achieve better results and renewed interest in programming.</div><div>The BOSU</div><div>The BOSU (short for Both Sides Utilized) is a terrific tool that transitions seamlessly from the gym to the Pilates studio. The BOSU is half of a stability ball attached to a flat platform. It can be used on a mat in place of a stability ball, to perform a variety of mat exercises like the Hundred, and can also be used on the Reformer in place of, or addition to, the long or short box. Or, use it on the mat in place of a step barrel. The BOSU is unstable on one side and rigid on the other, so either surface may be used during standing exercises on the trapeze table. Because it’s unstable, it is also an excellent tool to use for balance work in standing Pilates, or as an added challenge during seated work. Here are some exercises to try:</div><div>When the dome is facing up, use the BOSU as a substitute for the box. For example, the client can do an arm series while seated on the BOSU.Or try Chest Expansion, where the client begins by sitting on it, and progresses into kneeling.Try it in a short box series.</div><div>Hand Weights</div><div>Hand weights are useful and also transition easily from the gym to the studio. Use them to emphasize a different muscle group during a movement and increase the amount of challenge in a Pilates exercise or, in certain instances, make an exercise easier.</div><div>In a warm-up exercise like scapular protraction and retraction, have your client hold 3-pound weights in each hand. During protraction, the weight provides a small amount of additional resistance as the user spreads her shoulder blades apart. During retraction the weight provides assistance; the “help” she receives during retraction is especially useful, as it can help her more fully retract her shoulders. This is particularly important for those who spend long hours at a computer with their shoulders rounded forward.</div><div>Hand weights can also add variety to a Pilates routine. Take the Roll Up. Holding a light weight in the hands serves two functions: during the roll up phase of the movement, the weight changes the center of gravity and moves it forward. This can make the exercise easier to complete without modifications. During the return phase of the movement, the weight provides additional resistance.</div><div>In an exercise like Spine Twist, use hand weights to give the user an additional challenge of stabilizing shoulders. With arms extended out to the side, hold 1-3 pounds in each hand. Because the arms remain extended throughout the exercise, the weight may quickly overload the deltoid muscles without performing a large number of repetitions. This can increase endurance in the shoulder muscles, without detracting from focus on the abdominal muscles used in torso rotation.</div><div>As an additional modification, supinate the palms during the Spine Twist, for more emphasis on pectoral endurance as well as shoulder girdle stability.</div><div>Kettlebells</div><div>Kettlebells resemble bowling balls with an attached handle. They may be held with one or both hands on the grip, and are available in weights from five to one hundred pounds. Because the bulk of a kettlebell’s mass is below the handle, its center of gravity moves as it is swung (pressed or pulled) - a unique feature for strength training equipment. The dynamic nature of the kettlebell means that the user must adjust movements to maintain control of the bell. Because of this feature, they add another dimension to the movement when used as hand weights.</div><div>Here is an example of a way to use a kettlebell in a roll down, adding rotation for more challenge:</div><div>Inhale to prepare. Then exhale to flex the lumbar spine, rotate the upper torso and sweep the arm holding the kettlebell back and toward the floor. Inhale to hold the position and then exhale to rotate spine back to center and return arm to starting position. Switch the kettlebell to the other hand and repeat.</div><div>Modification: to emphasize the medial deltoid more than the pectorals, switch from a supinated grip to a pronated grip while holding the kettlebell. Combine the BOSU with hand weights or kettlebells to add several new dimensions of challenge to a workout, keeping clients constantly challenged so that their performance inside the studio and out continues to improve.</div><div>You can breathe new life into your Pilates routines by adding these inexpensive accessories previously used only in the weight room.</div><div>Jessica Cordero studied exercise science at the University of Michigan. She is a trained Pilates instructor who has worked as a swim coach and personal trainer for over ten years. Her clients have appeared on NBC, Pax TV Detroit and in Self magazine. Her interests include Crossfit, Pilates and barefoot running.</div><div>* The material (including without limitation, and advice and/or recommendations) in this guide is provided solely as a general educational and informational purpose. It is neither medical nor healthcare advice for any individual problem. It is also not intended to be used for medical treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers regarding your particular situation. Balanced Body Inc, its employees, officers, agents (including HF Industries), disclaim any and all liability or loss in connection with the materials contained in this guide, any exercises and instructions contained or described in this guide, or any use of this material or any apparatus or equipment.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Get Better Results with iFit Technology</title><description><![CDATA[Now available on all FreeMotion Fitness cardio equipment, iFit Technology changes the way your clients train, connects your personal trainers to your members and will keep your clients coming back. Get incredible results for your clients and your club with iFit Technology. See iFit in Action! Contact us at about FreeMotion Cardio Equipment<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_b7991ff4855e4ad9ab1ccc0ee7d001c7.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/10/09/Get-Better-Results-with-iFit-Technology</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/10/09/Get-Better-Results-with-iFit-Technology</guid><pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2014 03:28:44 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Now available on all FreeMotion Fitness cardio equipment, iFit Technology changes the way your clients train, connects your personal trainers to your members and will keep your clients coming back. Get incredible results for your clients and your club with iFit Technology.</div><div>See iFit in Action!</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UbsxQRpODVo"/><div>Contact us at about FreeMotion Cardio Equipment</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Pilates for Dancers</title><description><![CDATA[Learn more about how to train Dancers at your studio with these tips from Balanced Body Pilates: Introduction to Working with Dancers Pelvic Stability In Dancers Dancers VMO and Adductor Strength Dancers Pelvic Stability - External Rotators Dancers & Full Body Integration Upper Back Extension for Dancers Jumpboard Work for Dancers Improving Your Dancers Balance Improving Your Dancers Balance Side Laying Leg Work for Dancers<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/qz12KPMP5lI/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/09/24/Pilates-for-Dancers</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/09/24/Pilates-for-Dancers</guid><pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2014 02:13:21 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Learn more about how to train Dancers at your studio with these tips from Balanced Body Pilates:</div><div>Introduction to Working with Dancers</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qz12KPMP5lI"/><div>Pelvic Stability In Dancers</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IxD40Trwst8"/><div>Dancers VMO and Adductor Strength</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8nPXprnbWyE"/><div>Dancers Pelvic Stability - External Rotators</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y4pFm8egDbc"/><div>Dancers &amp; Full Body Integration</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NSesVMAMsKA"/><div>Upper Back Extension for Dancers</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MDLYKSn4jpI"/><div>Jumpboard Work for Dancers</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gdH90xBLT7U"/><div>Improving Your Dancers Balance</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2LkvLT_VbWg"/><div>Improving Your Dancers Balance</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2LkvLT_VbWg"/><div>Side Laying Leg Work for Dancers</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hy-fg1gwxP4"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Marpo Kinetics VMX THREE60 Training</title><description><![CDATA[Experience dynamic resistance rope training with the Marpo VMX THREE60 Rope Trainer. This multi-user, multi-mode, multi-functional training system allows for competitive team challenges, multi-user training sessions, full body strength, power and/or endurance workouts. The Dynamic Magnetic Braking (DMB) System builds functional grip strength through dynamic grip and re- grip patterns and consistently provides optimal resistance that can be adjusted for endurance, strength, power or combination<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/0oTtCQjyqUw/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/09/05/Marpo-Kinetics-VMX-THREE60-Training</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/09/05/Marpo-Kinetics-VMX-THREE60-Training</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2014 01:48:30 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Experience dynamic resistance rope training with the Marpo VMX THREE60 Rope Trainer. This multi-user, multi-mode, multi-functional training system allows for competitive team challenges, multi-user training sessions, full body strength, power and/or endurance workouts. The Dynamic Magnetic Braking (DMB) System builds functional grip strength through dynamic grip and re- grip patterns and consistently provides optimal resistance that can be adjusted for endurance, strength, power or combination training. The rope angle can also be adjusted to provide an array of functional movement patterns - push, pull, squat, lunge, bend and rotate.</div><div>Marpo Kinetics VMX Three 60 Training at Gold's Gym Beaconsfield</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0oTtCQjyqUw"/><div>DOWNLOAD OUR FREE WORKOUT GUIDES:</div><div>Contact us about Marpo VMX Three 60 Training!</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Product Focus - CoreAlign</title><description><![CDATA[Easy-to-learn exercises on the CoreAlign® emphasize an upright posture and are designed to improve posture, balance and functional movement. Developed by physical therapist Jonathan Hoffman, CoreAlign exercises facilitate musculoskeletal rehabilitation by stimulating core stability muscles to fire in perfect timing while performing challenging exercises, very deep stretches and core-controlled aerobic training. Also great for performance enhancement and as a regular exercise regimen for a<img src="http://i.vimeocdn.com/video/267928095_640.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/09/05/Product-Focus-CoreAlign</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/09/05/Product-Focus-CoreAlign</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2014 01:32:53 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Easy-to-learn exercises on the CoreAlign® emphasize an upright posture and are designed to improve posture, balance and functional movement. Developed by physical therapist Jonathan Hoffman, CoreAlign exercises facilitate musculoskeletal rehabilitation by stimulating core stability muscles to fire in perfect timing while performing challenging exercises, very deep stretches and core-controlled aerobic training. Also great for performance enhancement and as a regular exercise regimen for a healthy lifestyle.</div><div>CoreAlign : An Introduction</div><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/38888516"/><div>CoreAlign : Exercise Sample Set</div><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/38888517"/><div>Pilates for Instructors : E57 : Exercises and Pilates on the CoreAlign</div><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/81238642"/><div>Contact us to learn more about CoreAlign!</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Pilates for Your Sport</title><description><![CDATA[Click a link below to download our FREE Guides on Pilates for these popular sports: Running Swimming Golf Equestrian<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_25b1927c66794b988f224e3bd7728396.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/14/Pilates-for-Your-Sport</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/14/Pilates-for-Your-Sport</guid><pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2014 04:10:55 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Click a link below to download our FREE Guides on Pilates for these popular sports:</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New rip:60 Training Course Dates Announced for Perth in 2014</title><description><![CDATA[Interested in attending our rip:60 Training Course, accredited with 6 CECs by Fitness Australia? We have new dates available for those of you in WA! Click a link below for more information and online enrollment. August 23rd 2014 September 28th 2014 October 26th 2014 November 9th 2014 November 29th 214 December 14th 2014<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_0464e980852749019fbe8ecf41ec9be8.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/New-rip60-Training-Course-Dates-Announced-for-Perth-in-2014</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/New-rip60-Training-Course-Dates-Announced-for-Perth-in-2014</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 03:42:49 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Interested in attending our rip:60 Training Course, accredited with 6 CECs by Fitness Australia? We have new dates available for those of you in WA! Click a link below for more information and online enrollment.</div><div><a href="http://conta.cc/1s8u75M">August 23rd 2014</a></div><div><a href="http://conta.cc/1pKziVY">September 28th 2014</a></div><div><a href="http://conta.cc/WQzAno">October 26th 2014</a></div><div><a href="http://conta.cc/1xI8r10">November 9th 2014</a></div><div><a href="http://conta.cc/1xI8s4U">November 29th 214</a></div><div><a href="http://conta.cc/1obel9q">December 14th 2014</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Pilates and Our Children: Fitness for the Future</title><description><![CDATA[Pilates & Our Children : Fitness for the Future by Ken Endelman Courtesy of Balanced Body Inc, originally seen in a 2006 issue of Beyond Fitness Magazine. The health of today's children is compromised by a culture of convenience and increasingly sedentary activity. Eating fast food, watching TV and playing video games has become habitual while a nutritious diet and physical activity is on the downslide. A recent report from the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences indicates<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_d79c90a482fc4909b37740d42c1aecef.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Pilates-and-Our-Children-Fitness-for-the-Future</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Pilates-and-Our-Children-Fitness-for-the-Future</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 02:58:13 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Pilates &amp; Our Children : Fitness for the Future</div><div>by Ken Endelman</div><div>Courtesy of Balanced Body Inc, originally seen in a 2006 issue of Beyond Fitness Magazine.</div><div>The health of today's children is compromised by a culture of convenience and increasingly sedentary activity. Eating fast food, watching TV and playing video games has become habitual while a nutritious diet and physical activity is on the downslide.</div><div>A recent report from the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences indicates that approximately 30.3% of children between the ages of 6 to 11 are overweight and that 15.3% are obese. For adolescents between the ages of 12 to 19, 30.4% are overweight and 15.5% are obese. These are startling numbers and much higher than for previous years.</div><div>Concerned parents are now looking at exercise programs for their children in an effort to keep them fit and set them up for a lifetime of good health.</div><div>A rigorous exercise regimen, however, may not be beneficial for young children and could even be harmful. The concern stems from the fact that a young child's developing skeletal frame cannot handle the demanding forms of exercise in more aerobic-oriented or cardiovascular programs. For these children, a safer, healthier, low-impact workout is needed such as Pilates.</div><div>While the popularity of Pilates among adults is well chronicled, the exercise program also offers a large range of benefits to children. Improved posture and spinal alignment are realized as exercises increase the strength and flexibility of the abdominal and inner muscles of the body (the core or trunk). It promotes toned, sleek bodies and improves athletic performance. Through Pilates, children can gain awareness of their body, and learn how to move efficiently and gracefully. As children grow, their bodies are in a constant state of change and development.</div><div>Correctly or incorrectly it is here where they will formulate the physical attributes that they will take through life. Posture, the way they walk, the way they bend over, etc. Pilates can help establish correct principles of movement that children will use for their entire lives. It will also create a balanced musculature that can alleviate pain and reduce the potential for injury now and as they continue to grow into adulthood.</div><div>Beyond physical fitness, having a strong core can open up other benefits for children-including improved learning. Advocates believe that when trunk, or torso, stability is absent, sitting and standing for extended periods in school can be difficult. If children are expending their energy throughout the day just to maintain stability, their stamina for homework and other after school activities may be depleted. A strong trunk or core conserves their energy and allows them to be more attentive to schoolwork.</div><div>Because Pilates is a mind and body discipline, it can guide kids to a stronger body, and a more relaxed state of mind. Working to strengthen their bodies can increase children's selfesteem, stamina, abdominal strength and sleep. That, combined with the focused breathing techniques essential to the exercises, can help kids attain a much more serene and less stressful outlook.</div><div>Now many clubs and studios are offering classes aimed specifically at children. Generally, Pilates is suitable for children eight years and up under adult supervision. If you're thinking about enrolling your child in a class, here are a couple of things to think about:</div><div>1. Make sure the instructor not only has Pilates experience, but is experienced working with children.</div><div>2. Most classes are mat-based, often including stability balls, which are easy for children to use. However, some classes are offered on reformers-moving carriages inside a wooden or metal frame, connected to a network of pulleys, ropes and springs. </div><div>While effective and fun, equipment-based exercise programs are aimed at adults, so ask the instructor how they're modifying the movements on the Reformer for children.</div><div>Ken Endelman is Founder and CEO of Balanced Body Inc. Ken began his career as a designer and craftsman of fine custom furniture - a background apparent in every piece of hand-finished equipment the company makes. Since the early 1970s, Ken Endelman has updated Joseph Pilates' equipment with state-of-the-art engineering, materials and technology, many of which have become industry standards. The company has been awarded twenty-four U.S. patents, with more pending. Balanced Body Inc. continues to actively promote Pilates to the fitness industry, the medical profession and the media.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Getting to Know The FreeMotion Incline Trainer</title><description><![CDATA[Introduction to Incline Training Heart Rates and Incline Training Fat Utilisation and Incline Training Biomechanics of Incline Training Decline Training on An Incline Trainer Muscle Activation While Incline Training Performance on the Incline Trainer Variations of Movement on The Incline Trainer FreeMotion Incline Fit Workout 5 Minute Vertical Feet Challenge The Lucky 7 Calorie Blasting Workout Incline Trainer Question and Answer<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/rZ7Nh6A5jCg/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Getting-to-Know-The-FreeMotion-Incline-Trainer</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Getting-to-Know-The-FreeMotion-Incline-Trainer</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:38:21 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Introduction to Incline Training</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rZ7Nh6A5jCg"/><div>Heart Rates and Incline Training</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yvcj0MLVjH4"/><div>Fat Utilisation and Incline Training</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lY99CCOXyPw"/><div>Biomechanics of Incline Training</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TREKnV-i6Bk"/><div>Decline Training on An Incline Trainer</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JoSW1XLFIzg"/><div>Muscle Activation While Incline Training</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JbsLQtePCZk"/><div>Performance on the Incline Trainer</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/64vXtdlofP8"/><div>Variations of Movement on The Incline Trainer</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uUJUibetQT8"/><div>FreeMotion Incline Fit Workout</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yuH0nSUsCzk"/><div>5 Minute Vertical Feet Challenge</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sCSqxygi55g"/><div>The Lucky 7 Calorie Blasting Workout</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U_keT-rqWfg"/><div>Incline Trainer Question and Answer</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XwIqUaON6Ps"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Get Fit with FreeMotion Dual Cable Cross</title><description><![CDATA[The FreeMotion Dual Cable Cross enhances strength by allowing users to perform movements that mimic activities in both sports and life. Functionally trains the muscles of the entire body to work together while building stability and coordination.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/vY1bZK84Mr0/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Get-Fit-with-FreeMotion-Dual-Cable-Cross</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Get-Fit-with-FreeMotion-Dual-Cable-Cross</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:35:33 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div> The FreeMotion Dual Cable Cross enhances strength by allowing users to perform movements that mimic activities in both sports and life. Functionally trains the muscles of the entire body to work together while building stability and coordination.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vY1bZK84Mr0"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How To Remove an Allegro Carriage</title><description><![CDATA[Balanced Body tech support guru Joe Weiss takes you step-by-step through how to remove the carriage from the Allegro Reformer.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/9S1OxGyj9Lg/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Remove-an-Allegro-Carriage</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Remove-an-Allegro-Carriage</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:31:46 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Balanced Body tech support guru Joe Weiss takes you step-by-step through how to remove the carriage from the Allegro Reformer.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9S1OxGyj9Lg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Tips for the Balanced Body IQ Reformer</title><description><![CDATA[Here are some tips for proper use of the Balanced Body IQ Reformer<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/K6lBsD4e6LU/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Tips-for-the-Balanced-Body-IQ-Reformer</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Tips-for-the-Balanced-Body-IQ-Reformer</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:14:44 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Here are some tips for proper use of the Balanced Body IQ Reformer</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K6lBsD4e6LU"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How To Assemble A New Trapeze Table</title><description><![CDATA[Joe Weiss, Balanced Body's tech support rep, shows us how to assemble a brand new Pilates Trapeze Table (Cadillac) .<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/3zBge0xsVys/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Assemble-A-New-Trapeze-Table</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Assemble-A-New-Trapeze-Table</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:13:09 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Joe Weiss, Balanced Body's tech support rep, shows us how to assemble a brand new Pilates Trapeze Table (Cadillac) .</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3zBge0xsVys"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How To Adjust Reformer Side Wheels</title><description><![CDATA[Joe Weiss, Balanced Bodys tech support rep, shows us how to adjust your Pilates Reformer side wheels.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/Ru62jo9ksN4/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Adjust-Reformer-Side-Wheels</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Adjust-Reformer-Side-Wheels</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:10:50 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Joe Weiss, Balanced Bodys tech support rep, shows us how to adjust your Pilates Reformer side wheels.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ru62jo9ksN4"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How To Tune Your Trapeze Table</title><description><![CDATA[Joe Weiss, Balanced Body's tech support rep, shows us how to tune your Pilates Trapeze Table (Cadillac) .<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/ofM3yEA2q70/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Tune-Your-Trapeze-Table</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Tune-Your-Trapeze-Table</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:09:30 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Joe Weiss, Balanced Body's tech support rep, shows us how to tune your Pilates Trapeze Table (Cadillac) .</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ofM3yEA2q70"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How To Install Footplates and Standing Platforms on Balanced Body Reformers</title><description><![CDATA[Balanced Body Technical Support shows how to install foot plates and standing platforms on all BB Reformers, as well as the Oversized Standing Platform for our wood Reformers.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/fR8GGcdgxOc/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Install-Footplates-and-Standing-Platforms-on-Balanced-Body-Reformers</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Install-Footplates-and-Standing-Platforms-on-Balanced-Body-Reformers</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:06:46 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Balanced Body Technical Support shows how to install foot plates and standing platforms on all BB Reformers, as well as the Oversized Standing Platform for our wood Reformers.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fR8GGcdgxOc"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How To Maintain Your Balanced Body Reformer</title><description><![CDATA[Joe Weiss, Balanced Body's tech support rep, shows us how to maintain & clean your Pilates Reformer.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/yH-RKgtcRWY/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Maintain-Your-Balanced-Body-Reformer</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Maintain-Your-Balanced-Body-Reformer</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:05:06 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Joe Weiss, Balanced Body's tech support rep, shows us how to maintain &amp; clean your Pilates Reformer.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yH-RKgtcRWY"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How To Install and Adjust the Allegro 2 Footbar</title><description><![CDATA[Just get your Allegro 2 Reformer? Not sure how to install the footbar? Balanced Body® Technical Support takes you step-by-step through the process. Not sure how to adjust the footbar?<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/XdzzHkojHKA/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Install-and-Adjust-the-Allegro-2-Footbar</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/How-To-Install-and-Adjust-the-Allegro-2-Footbar</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:00:41 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Just get your Allegro 2 Reformer? Not sure how to install the footbar? Balanced Body® Technical Support takes you step-by-step through the process.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XdzzHkojHKA"/><div>Not sure how to adjust the footbar?</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Kl3jOqpE_pc"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Exercises Using CoreAlign</title><description><![CDATA[Jonathan Hoffman shows us the basics of the CoreAlign and goes over some intro exercises.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/VSmaXjmnyt0/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-CoreAlign</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-CoreAlign</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 00:47:20 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Jonathan Hoffman shows us the basics of the CoreAlign and goes over some intro exercises.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VSmaXjmnyt0"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-plMbjlF9qM"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8_vHIJmkl6o"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BdXJm57G5DY"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Exercises Using Our Balanced Body Exo Chair</title><description><![CDATA[Here's a whole range of sample exercises using our Balanced Body Exo Chair<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/G4vcRASrGhs/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-Our-Balanced-Body-Exo-Chair</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-Our-Balanced-Body-Exo-Chair</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 00:30:17 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Here's a whole range of sample exercises using our Balanced Body Exo Chair</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G4vcRASrGhs"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vgdV-A7fUAU"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RxYfhOyeW7U"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z9fNzrm6M78"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HzKrNbwEAbY"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jBc3akGUThA"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4BB0PkTCWJA"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iGpet5RzDX0"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hee4XzUKofI"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hwl31jneGCU"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Exercises Using our Easy Set Footbar on the Balanced Body Allegro 2</title><description><![CDATA[The most fluid transitions plus effective new programming options. Our EasySet Footbar slides horizontally the entire length of the frame. Nine locked positions accommodate different body sizes and allow innovative programming. This series of podcasts demonstrates exercise sequences using the EasySet Footbar on the Allegro 2 at various positions along the Reformer's length.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/wnHLIn7ratY/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-our-Easy-Set-Footbar-on-the-Balanced-Body-Allegro-2</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-our-Easy-Set-Footbar-on-the-Balanced-Body-Allegro-2</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 00:22:06 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The most fluid transitions plus effective new programming options. Our EasySet Footbar slides horizontally the entire length of the frame. Nine locked positions accommodate different body sizes and allow innovative programming.</div><div>This series of podcasts demonstrates exercise sequences using the EasySet Footbar on the Allegro 2 at various positions along the Reformer's length.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wnHLIn7ratY"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QTkw1HWSJUc"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/laNtZrTWCBk"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NcavmCL-Lvk"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yL0w5NjIH8c"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Exercises Using the Balanced Body Orbit</title><description><![CDATA[Take a look at this video series featuring sample exercises on our Balanced Body Orbit<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/n8skoAa-J6I/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-the-Balanced-Body-Orbit</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/08/01/Exercises-Using-the-Balanced-Body-Orbit</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2014 00:14:25 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Take a look at this video series featuring sample exercises on our Balanced Body Orbit</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n8skoAa-J6I"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NWumqWDzXMA"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/172hkgxJ6Ns"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UTTUPoW9R_I"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mqUe-ZSxR-s"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Exercises Using the Pilates ARC</title><description><![CDATA[Check out this playlist for ideas on how to use our innovative Pilates ARC!<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/56DVLZ26WVw/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/30/Exercises-Using-the-Pilates-ARC</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/30/Exercises-Using-the-Pilates-ARC</guid><pubDate>Wed, 30 Jul 2014 03:31:53 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div> Check out this playlist for ideas on how to use our innovative Pilates ARC!</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/56DVLZ26WVw"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j0orcNERsFA"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oATT4ppPOXE"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/heavdGiAjc0"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U0SuFQsrE80"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2dq16M1Lu0Y"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7TGTPKKS40g"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GcjVmOKFYD0"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cHzxcxo1K2w"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yvs3kkyIS64"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dIA4r3MZguQ"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SoW0f3JD1eQ"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ovCkYILeQ0c"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pSHiqnuolMA"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T-jOA2QNNDY"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3O_YqUFTI60"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Pilates for Your Sport: Swimming</title><description><![CDATA[For swimmers, proper body alignment is critical. Swimmers need to work with the water and the slightest misalignment can cause them to work against it. Much of a swimmer’s training, however, focuses on working the global muscles – or the outside musculature system. It does not work the inside 'stabilizing' system. This bilateral imbalance leaves a swimmer open to misalignments which make certain parts of the body work harder than they should. That can add seconds to a competitive time or – even<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_25b1927c66794b988f224e3bd7728396.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/25/Pilates-for-Your-Sport-Swimming</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/25/Pilates-for-Your-Sport-Swimming</guid><pubDate>Fri, 25 Jul 2014 01:55:11 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>For swimmers, proper body alignment is critical. Swimmers need to work with the water and the slightest misalignment can cause them to work against it. Much of a swimmer’s training, however, focuses on working the global muscles – or the outside musculature system. It does not work the inside 'stabilizing' system. This bilateral imbalance leaves a swimmer open to misalignments which make certain parts of the body work harder than they should. That can add seconds to a competitive time or – even worse – to a variety of tears, pulls or strains.</div><div>Also Check out these Videos using our Pilates ARC to target exercises for Swimmers:</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/56DVLZ26WVw"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dIA4r3MZguQ"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Get Warm This Winter with Our SandBell and Weight Vest Treadmill Workout</title><description><![CDATA[Hyperwear Top Trainer, Sam Dowd demonstrates how to incorporate the SandBell and Hyper Vest FIT weight vest into a treadmill workout. This workout will show you how the SandBell and weight vest can be used to intensify a treadmill workout so you can burn more calories in a short period of time. Adding on the weight vest increases your body weight and resistance to make the workout more challenging and causing you to expend more energy.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/_S9fHnDxG5U/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/18/Get-Warm-This-Winter-with-Our-SandBell-and-Weight-Vest-Treadmill-Workout</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/18/Get-Warm-This-Winter-with-Our-SandBell-and-Weight-Vest-Treadmill-Workout</guid><pubDate>Fri, 18 Jul 2014 04:15:47 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Hyperwear Top Trainer, Sam Dowd demonstrates how to incorporate the SandBell and Hyper Vest FIT weight vest into a treadmill workout. This workout will show you how the SandBell and weight vest can be used to intensify a treadmill workout so you can burn more calories in a short period of time. Adding on the weight vest increases your body weight and resistance to make the workout more challenging and causing you to expend more energy.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_S9fHnDxG5U"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>SandRope Battle Rope </title><description><![CDATA[Get the high intensity cardio, strength building and fat burning benefits of battle rope training, but in less space, without needing an anchor point, and with a far greater variety of exercises working any and all combinations of muscle groups. The SandRope is a patent pending neoprene tube packed with approximately 14kg of shifting sand in just 305cm of space. Hyperwear SandRope™ Battle Rope Information and Demo Video Hyperwear SandRope™ Battle Rope Exercise Video Preview Hyperwear SandRope™<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/OFXJROPkGNw/0.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/18/SandRope-Battle-Rope-</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/18/SandRope-Battle-Rope-</guid><pubDate>Fri, 18 Jul 2014 03:38:29 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Get the high intensity cardio, strength building and fat burning benefits of battle rope training, but in less space, without needing an anchor point, and with a far greater variety of exercises working any and all combinations of muscle groups. The SandRope is a patent pending neoprene tube packed with approximately 14kg of shifting sand in just 305cm of space. </div><div>Hyperwear SandRope™ Battle Rope Information and Demo Video</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OFXJROPkGNw"/><div>Hyperwear SandRope™ Battle Rope Exercise Video Preview </div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5tzadTHW8eg"/><div>Hyperwear SandRope™ Battle Rope Top Ten Exercises</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aJNpZhegJO0"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>How to Engage Kids with Targeted Programming at Your Studio</title><description><![CDATA[Pilates COREterly - Courtesy of Balanced Body Inc Spring 2014 Pilates Programming - Kids Just Want to Have Fun! by Larkin Barnett, BA, MA “The true object of all human life is play.” — GK Chesterton To create his method, Joseph Pilates drew from several movement disciplines. This combination makes it a perfect fit for kids, because children’s fitness programs require this type of variety for physical and mental development. Pilates instructors have a lot to offer children because one area of<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_a3bedf3a166146eb9a5b845e7574443f.png"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/16/How-to-Engage-Kids-with-Targeted-Programming-at-Your-Studio</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/16/How-to-Engage-Kids-with-Targeted-Programming-at-Your-Studio</guid><pubDate>Wed, 16 Jul 2014 23:42:18 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Pilates COREterly - Courtesy of Balanced Body Inc</div><div>Spring 2014</div><div>Pilates Programming - Kids Just Want to Have Fun!</div><div>by Larkin Barnett, BA, MA </div><div>“The true object of all human life is play.” — GK Chesterton</div><div>To create his method, Joseph Pilates drew from several movement disciplines. This combination makes it a perfect fit for kids, because children’s fitness programs require this type of variety for physical and mental development.</div><div>Pilates instructors have a lot to offer children because one area of expertise includes mindful fitness. After all, children explore their world first through their rich imagination and five senses. Children who experience the joy of learning to “control” their own bodies then take on the bigger challenge of moving with purpose in work and play. They grow up more comfortable in their own skin. They are being given the mindful tools to becoming people dedicated to their own personalized physical fitness or sport for the rest of their lives. Our children are the most important resource on our planet so let’s get moving!</div><div>Why Add Movement</div><div>Creative movement in fitness settings provides an answer to our nation’s health-crisis of sedentary, overweight, and diabetic children. Pilates instructors who grow a youth-based business are helping our children to move “one repetition” closer to a healthier future. Each day, more of the arts are being completely drained from our children’s schools. Yet studies show parents believe dance, music, art and drama make their children better students and better people.</div><div>Creative movement provides a specific art-orientated vocabulary that builds a child’s mind/body connection, as well as their language, math and science skills. Expressive movement involves mastery over the body in all its varieties. It reinforces an outlet for the joy found in rhythmic action. Children need variety, complementary activities (like games) and fun. Creative movement cultivates a “can do” attitude, stimulating both the right and left sides of the brain. Not to mention, children move through space with confidence, uninhibited by the fear of being judged for not having moved in “the right way.”</div><div>Planning Your Program The extra twist is that with children there are two sets of clients: the children and their parents. When you strike a balance between satisfying the needs of the children with the result-oriented desires of the parents — the sky is the limit, so be sure to communicate with the parents.</div><div>Once you’re ready to begin, it’s important to remember children aren’t mini-adults, so design a fitness program that is full of kid-friendly variety and less complex exercises. Also, keep in mind that each child is extremely unique and a helpful common denominator to the group dynamic is mindful exercise. A comprehensive fitness program promotes problem-solving, self-esteem, social skills, and fun creative self-expression. If you make it fun they’ll enjoy learning about anatomy-based visual imagery, while simultaneously being introduced to the power of their mind/body connection. Children need shorter intervals of exercises. It is essential to provide a full curriculum of movement disciplines in order to mix it up!</div><div>Designing Your Class</div><div>Begin by getting physician clearance.</div><div>It’s important to design a non-competitive fitness curriculum in which boys and girls can move at their own individual pace, discover personalized potential, and build self-esteem. Keep the class focus upon aspects of self-motivation, safety guidelines and proper form. Next make sure there is an appropriate warm-up and cool down portion to every class. Make the essential Pilates principles of movement the foundation for teaching these disciplines. For consistency, build in ways for them to chart their own progress. Include ways to burn energy, build bone density, balance, endurance and strength.</div><div>Identify main elements to explore in a particular lesson. Provide the kids with ample time to refine, practice and choose solutions. Experiment with cueing using a supportive and natural voice, which is your most potent teaching aid. Be aware of your posture and energize your own body. Create a comfortable, friendly and non-competitive environment.</div><div>Expressive Movement for Ages 5 to 8 A successful children’s fitness program must be based upon a combination of functional and expressive movement for physical, mental and emotional development. Developmentally, creative movement is hands down the winner for cultivating self-expression and emotional stability, while building optimum physical conditioning. Children organize, perceive and understand the world primarily from their physical senses. Before the children focus on the detail-oriented Pilates movements, begin each class with an easy non-competitive movement approach that explores their full movement potential.</div><div>Younger children will be more apt to enjoy and concentrate upon Pilates refined moves or yoga poses after delighting in skipping, running and jumping with joyous abandonment. Expressive movement is an essential energy release and a biological necessity. Children need these intervals and short bursts.</div><div>Therefore, lay the groundwork for every class with basic locomotion movements, such as walking, skipping, jumping, etc. Now that the children have expended their energy they can start the portion of class to master Pilates. Axial movements (bending, stretching, pushing, collapsing, and rising) are also part of the basics allowing the children to better access Pilates moves, traditional calisthenics, and yoga poses with more confidence. Body part lessons can be integrated into any of the themes. Adding props make the movement exploration less intimidating and expands the movement possibilities.</div><div>Visual Imagery Helps Young Children Enjoy Functional Movement Visual imagery is the most direct path to the mind-body connection. Visualization involves the thought or what you “see” in the mind’s eye. Imagery involves the body or what you “feel” with your senses. Children learn how to tap into their imagination using fun, anatomy-based visual imagery cues. The cues encompass the essential Pilates principles, which are key to becoming their own fitness experts for a lifetime. Tap into the rich imagination of children. Visual imagery and fitness make a successful team.</div><div>Children become their own coach by learning their ABC's — Alignment, Breathing and Core visual imagery cues. The essential principles of Pilates help children to prepare, initiate and execute each movement properly, from point A to point B. When the child focuses upon the visual image they don’t get bored and the movement takes on a distinct quality. Visual imagery deepens the understanding of the human body in motion, which prepares the children for injury prevention, sports performance, dance, recreational activities and better posture.</div><div>Like Olympic athletes, dancers and healers alike, children can also use visual imagery to learn to live up to their own “Olympic” potential. Watch the children think, speak, act and move like a champion. They gain confidence, strength and mind-body integration tools for a healthy lifetime. If you listen to the language of a champion, it is positive, encouraging and instructive.</div><div>Visual images are tools that can bring out the essence of the Pilates method. Children transform before your eyes, dig down for a deeper physical commitment and have more fun. They view their workouts as an adventure for the mind and the body. This gives them strategies for healthier living. It can correct inappropriate habitual movement patterns, which can become chronically engrained. Imaging can unite and balance the right/left brain activity.</div><div>Visual imagery is a positive way to help children alleviate worry, fear, or nagging negative thoughts that slip into the consciousness. No matter what circumstance the child finds himself in, he can tap into his “inner environment“ to gain strength, balance and relaxation. Imagery takes functional fitness training from mindless repetitions, to total body efficient movements which inspire confidence. Imagery builds a child’s vocabulary, while building muscles. It also empowers children to become independent exercisers due to their own invaluable input.</div><div>Unite Traditional Calisthenics with Pilates Principles:</div><div>Joyful Jumping Jacks Mindful exercise and a deep understanding of the body in motion becomes the name of the game with the addition of anatomy-based visual imagery cues. These cues reinforce the essential Pilates principles. The children’s faces light up when visual images are used to teach traditional jumping jacks. They go into a zone of efficient total body movement just like when we observe our clients using the Pilates principles. Their landings become soft and controlled by landing in the middle of imaginary targets. Their use of total-body space has clarity when picturing moving inside a 3-D cube. Their core supports stability and proper overall alignment when visualizing strong vines encircling the inner trunk. By picturing their hips as a bowl full of popcorn they support and align their pelvis during the jumping jacks. There are no popcorn kernels falling on the floor in front or in the back of the body. Imagining big balloons next to their ears each time their arms float overhead reinforces shoulder girdle organization when they don’t pop the balloons.</div><div>Pilates: The Hundred When you teach children The Hundred you may ask them to support their head with one hand. Cue them to pump heavy mattress springs into the mat with the arm by your side. Sew your navel into the mat to contract your abdominals and envision growing roots deep into the mat for core stability. Fog up a mirror on your exhales.</div><div>Pilates: The Roll Up (or Half Roll-Ups) Ask the children to picture their torso continuously curling over a huge water wheel of a windmill — while rolling up and down. This helps them to find their C-Curve. Picture your abs as a sponge your stomach stays away from the water wheel. Visualize the sponge getting smaller and smaller inside your body while wringing every drop of water out of the sponge — on your exhales. You may ask them to bend their legs at first. Fasten your legs and abdominals together like zippers. The zipper image is meant to convey the muscular engagement of the Base of your Powerhouse and Powerhouse. Eventually perform in the Pilates stance by gluing your legs into the mat. Feel your outer legs squeeze your inner legs together as if you can squeeze several tennis balls in between your legs — from your knees, thighs, and glutes.</div><div>Pilates: Rolling Like a Ball Picture buttoning your belly button onto your backbone. Visualize yourself curled inside a big ball in a C-Curve shape while rolling down and up. Your back is in the shape of a scared Halloween cat. Teach shoulder girdle organization by asking the children to picture tucking their shirt into their pants. Exhale, visualizing your abs as a plump raisin that shrivels more and more into a dried up raisin.</div><div>Pilates, calisthenics, stretches and yoga taught using the essential Pilates principles and visual imagery builds in safety, stamina and success. You may want to end the class with some yoga poses. Children discover an island of calm for the stresses within their lives. Statistics show that yoga improves concentration and test scores. The key is to develop the body’s potential in varied, daring and challenging ways to make fitness a sought-after expressive and functional activity. All of a child’s physical, mental, social and emotional skills help him to fulfill this goal. The result is an ever-broadening cycle of learning.</div><div>Larkin Barnett, B.A., M.A., Dance, is an award-winning author, Polestar-certified instructor and founder of the AthleticKinetics System© Pilates teacher trainings. Larkin has been sharing her techniques for 4 decades as a movement therapist and fitness professional. She has been a professor of exercise science and dance at several universities, trained with top modern dance companies and performed at the NYC Laban Center. She was chosen as a President’s Challenge Advocate for the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and helps prepare parents and teachers to help our children get fit through her Pilates-based comprehensive children’s fitness curriculum. For more information, visit Larkin’s website at www.larkinbarnett.com.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dispel Common Myths and Attract More Members to Pilates at Your Facility</title><description><![CDATA[Pilates: Fact Dispels Fiction By Ken Endelman, CEO of Balanced Body Inc. As published in the June 2005 issue of Club Solutions magazine (courtesy of Balanced Body Inc) Pilates continues to soar in popularity. Yet some of your members may not believe Pilates can benefit them personally. Educate them by dispelling some common myths about Pilates: Myth #1: Pilates is not for men. Mistakenly stereotyped as exercise for women, Pilates was originally designed by a man, for men. Joseph Pilates<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_8d334d1482c8476e9d18ad4ed8b38a9e.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/15/Dispel-Common-Myths-and-Attract-More-Members-to-Pilates-at-Your-Facility</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/15/Dispel-Common-Myths-and-Attract-More-Members-to-Pilates-at-Your-Facility</guid><pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2014 03:30:36 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Pilates: Fact Dispels Fiction</div><div>By Ken Endelman, CEO of Balanced Body Inc. As published in the June 2005 issue of Club Solutions magazine (courtesy of Balanced Body Inc)</div><div>Pilates continues to soar in popularity. Yet some of your members may not believe Pilates can benefit them personally. Educate them by dispelling some common myths about Pilates:</div><div>Myth #1: Pilates is not for men.</div><div>Mistakenly stereotyped as exercise for women, Pilates was originally designed by a man, for men. Joseph Pilates developed the regimen during a career that included stints as a boxing coach, martial artist and athletic trainer. Despite this history, Pilates has gotten off to a slower start with men. “In general, men don’t try things until they see other men doing it,” says Gerard Hinderlich, owner of Spectrum Bay Club’s Pilates Revolution studio in El Segundo, CA, “I have a class with guys in it and now others are asking about it. It’s the best exercise for men because it increases their strength, flexibility and agility.”</div><div>Tell your male membership that Pilates will greatly enhance their athletic performance, by improving their strength and flexibility. Golfers will hit the ball farther. Runners will run longer and they’ll do it without pain. Professional NBA and NFL sports teams — including the New Jersey Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves and Tampa Bay Buccaneers — now use Pilates as an essential part of their conditioning.</div><div>Valentin, owner of The Pilates Body by Valentin in Pleasanton, CA, has taught a men-only Pilates class for the past year. “I have cyclists, skiers and other athletes in my class,” she says, “They’ve seen improved performance in their specialties and in other sports, too.”</div><div>The truth: More men discover the benefits of Pilates every year. Market Pilates classes to your male membership. You’ll increase your program’s momentum, and spur positive word-of-mouth among your male club members.</div><div>Myth #2: Pilates is not challenging enough.</div><div>For decades, a traditional workout consisted of lifting weights, running hard, and getting sore —the classic “no pain, no gain” mentality. Pilates is different, focusing on quality and precision of movement rather than the quantity of repetitions. Nonetheless, it’s a thorough full-body workout that’ll challenge even your most fit members.</div><div>“It’s tremendous conditioning, but different than people are used to. Pilates demands that you concentrate on each movement,” says Stacy Sims, owner of Pendleton Pilates in Cincinnati, OH, “If you like to ’check out’ mentally while exercising — for example, with headphones on the treadmill — it may not be for you. But if you focus on performing the exercises correctly, you’ll definitely feel like you’ve had a good workout.”</div><div>The truth: For members willing to rethink the “no pain, no gain” approach, Pilates provides no-nonsense, full-body strength and agility training. It delivers results, often with decreased potential for the strains and soreness that inhibit progress.</div><div>Myth #3: Pilates is too hard.</div><div>This misconception stems from the fact that many clubs offer free mat classes as a springboard to fee-based Reformer classes. This can create an incorrect perception that matwork is an introductory form of Pilates. In reality, Reformers provide support and resistance for the exercises, so matwork can be more difficult.</div><div>Ensure that your mat classes aren’t overly difficult for beginners, which can turn them off to Pilates entirely. Your instructors must be well-trained in modifying exercises appropriately for various fitness levels. Two possible approaches:</div><div>1. Offer a mat class geared to beginners, rather than just offering open-level classes. Beginners will be comfortable with their peers and your instructor can modify exercises appropriately for the group.</div><div>2. If you can’t offer beginner classes, instructors must ensure that no participant is discouraged, and that everyone is having fun. “If you lose people in mat classes, it’s because the instructor hasn’t grasped how to modify the exercises to meet each participant’s needs,” says Valentin, “If taught right, mat classes are enjoyable and effective.”</div><div>The truth: With proper training in modifying exercises to meet individual needs, your Pilates instructors can increase member satisfaction and enjoyment, and improve retention rates.</div><div>Myth #4: Pilates is too expensive.</div><div>Mat classes are usually free with club membership. And, although the average cost for private Pilates sessions is similar to personal training ($50 to $100), the advent of group Reformer classes has made equipment-based Pilates much more affordable. Group Reformer classes average around $20 a class, but it can be lower. Hinderlich’s studio offers a package for multiple sessions that lowers the cost to $13 per class. In addition, group Reformer sessions (4-10 participants) feel like semiprivate classes. Participants get plenty of instructor attention — more “bang for their buck” than in other group classes.</div><div>The truth: Pilates mat classes are typically free, and group Reformer classes are becoming much more affordable. Emphasize the extra attention participants get in small Reformer classes, and offer creative package deals to your members.</div><div>Put energy into dispelling these Pilates myths and your members will benefit along with your club’s bottom line. Pilates enhances the health of your members and can be a valuable profit center for your club. And that is no myth.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>An Introduction to Pilates for Runners</title><description><![CDATA[In our recently released guide “Pilates for Fitness Facilities, Everything You Need to Know to Make a Successful Start” we made reference to the importance of designing engaging programming, and perhaps even offering speciality classes that target a particular area of member interest. Today we focus on Pilates for Runners and offer another guide featuring 18 pages of FREE suggestions, tips and advice. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PILATES FOR RUNNERS<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f702c_0dd8de0e8aca4c9a86ae812044100a75.jpg"/>]]></description><link>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/11/An-Introduction-to-Pilates-for-Runners</link><guid>https://www.hf.com.au/single-post/2014/07/11/An-Introduction-to-Pilates-for-Runners</guid><pubDate>Fri, 11 Jul 2014 02:08:14 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>In our recently released guide we made reference to the importance of designing engaging programming, and perhaps even offering speciality classes that target a particular area of member interest. Today we focus on Pilates for Runners and offer another guide featuring 18 pages of FREE suggestions, tips and advice.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>