That's Fit

Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answer. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose two per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hello Fitz. I am currently working on getting six-pack abs. I was surfing the web and found this new device called EZ-ups gravity shoes. They basically make you hang upside-down and let you do sit-ups. Is it worth buying or not? Jonathan

A. Hey Jonathan, I know what you're talking about and I really feel neither here nor there on the product. The Teeter Hang-ups EZ-Ups Inversion System Gravity Boots, selling for $149. I have never used them, but being in this field for almost two decades has allowed me to try similar types of exercises and equipment.

Honestly. I wouldn't have any desire to purchase something so expensive and one dimensional like this. I'd prefer to have a regular pull-up bar for pull-ups and then train my abs by lifting my legs while hanging upright. Hanging upside down doesn't hold any appeal to me, since I've previously fallen from and inversion table and conked my head pretty hard. Ouch! In my opinion, there are a lot better ways to skin that cat of six pack abs. Ways that are less dangerous and expensive as well. Fitz

Q. Hi Miss Fitzness, I've been working with a trainer for about six months and I really like him. I have a question though. Am I supposed to tip him after workouts or for the holidays? I'm not sure what the protocol is. Cindy

A. Hi Cindy. What a thoughtful lady you are. When it comes to tipping trainers, there are no rules. I always thought it interesting that people tip folks for bringing them a drink, but not someone who is changing their life. Having said that, us trainers make way more money than waiters and bartenders as a standard hourly fee.

Do what you think is appropriate Cindy and don't sweat it one bit. Tipping is not customary in this field, so I imagine your trainer would be thrilled with a generous holiday gift of any sort. Over the past six months you've probably built quite a close relationship, which tends to happen. Most of my clients end up as friends, and we often exchange holiday gifts. Just don't buy him junk food. That's been given to me, and it's certainly left a question mark over my head. Healthy holidays to you.

Punches & Kicks,

Fitz

Fitzness.com

Note: The content presented in this Q. & A section is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as medical advice or substitute for professional medical care.