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<generator>Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/</generator><item><title>Stay Injury Free After 40</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/18/stay-injury-free-after-40/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/18/stay-injury-free-after-40/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/18/stay-injury-free-after-40/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

	
		
			boeke
	

Anti-aging articles abound touting the benefits of lifting weights to boost metabolism and fat loss, and increase bone density. But strength training is also your first defense against injuries.

Weakness is the number one factor for putting you at injury risk. "The older we get, the less elastin -- a protein that keeps our tendons and ligaments flexible -- we make . As a result, these connective tissues become more stiff, placing added responsibility on our muscles to bear the burden of movement and impact when we run, swing a golf club or take a Zumba class. If your muscles aren't strong enough, you'll get injured," explained Henry Lodge, M.D., and coauthor of Younger Next Year.

Let's say you're a tennis player for example. If you don't have strong upper back and core muscles, then tendons and ligaments in your shoulder and elbow take on too much and you're at greater risk for a rotator cuff tear or tennis elbow.

Your second defense is the warm-up. It's no longer an option like it was when we were younger. Dr. Lodge says 10 minutes is mandatory. "It's essential that your muscles are warm, supple and awake. Rather than stretching or engaging in a lighter version of the intended sport, the optimal warm-up for our demographic should be non-impact with a core strengthening component." Think: climbing stairs, an elliptical stint, and performing planks, lunges, and crunches.

And finally, you have to be just as diligent about your cooldown. The soreness we feel after a workout is partly due to chemicals like lactic acid that build up in our muscles and cause inflammation and stiffness. When we're younger they flush out in a matter of hours. But the older we get, the longer these chemicals take to wash out. The longer your muscles stay stiff and inflamed, the greater your injury potential.

So here's your takeaway: Your muscles can do more as you age. But you need to work harder to keep them strong and pliant.

	
		
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<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/18/stay-injury-free-after-40/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19881200/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/18/stay-injury-free-after-40/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>cool down</category><category>healthy aging</category><category>injury prevention</category><category>strength training</category><category>warm up</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Lose Weight During Menopause</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/25/lose-weight-during-menopause/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/25/lose-weight-during-menopause/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/25/lose-weight-during-menopause/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
	
		Rodale Press

If you're struggling with menopausal weight gain and you're not someone who's already exercising regularly, consider checking out the new book "Menopause Reset: Reverse Weight Gain, Speed Fat Loss, and Get Your Body Back in 3 Simple Steps."

Although I found the steps to be not so simple, what I liked is that the book cuts through all the diet and exercise hype that applies to everyone and presents a narrow summary of which weight loss strategies will work specifically for sedentary women in menopause. Unfortunately, the book doesn't offer any new tactics, but it can still be a useful tool.

The author, Mickey Harpaz, offers a plan to reset your mindset, diet and movement. "The first step is combating stress that comes with the physical and emotional changes of menopause," he wrote. "Stress hormones like cortisol can prevent weight loss because their presence signals the body to go into energy-storing mode and stores fat resulting in weight gain." The book offers mental exercises such as thinking about your goals every day, being kinder to yourself and isolating your stress triggers.


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The diet step focuses on regulating blood sugar; too much of it causes the secretion of excess insulin, which reduces the body's ability to burn fat. "The concentration should be less about what you eat but how much and how often," said Harpaz. He calls his plan "baby feeding," which is eating small amounts every two hours. Still what you eat is significant. Avoid simple sugars and don't overdo carbs, for example.

The movement section targets women who have no idea how to start an exercise routine. This program will help you determine every facet such as the type of exercise, the duration, the time of day, the intensity and the sequence. Harpaz also promotes moderate activity. His premise is that a workout intensity of 50 to 70 percent of your maximum capacity or target heart rate is the most efficient range for fat burning. "You don't have to sweat to burn fat," said Harpaz. While that may be true for a beginner, some research suggests otherwise once you start to work out regularly. Many exercise physiologists agree that high-intensity interval training -- short, give-it-your-all bursts followed by less demanding recovery periods -- lengthens the time it takes for your metabolism to return to its normal resting rate than other forms of fitness. Also, the harder your heart is pumping, the more calories you burn. So ultimately, if you want to stay slim over the long haul, be prepared to perspire.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/25/lose-weight-during-menopause/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19838624/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/25/lose-weight-during-menopause/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>fit-after-40</category><category>menopause</category><category>weight loss</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 25 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Keeping Your Heart Healthy After 40</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/keeping-your-heart-healthy-after-40/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/keeping-your-heart-healthy-after-40/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/keeping-your-heart-healthy-after-40/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

	
		Holly St. Lifer

Four years ago, Theresa Volpe, a young mom with two daughters, knew she was out of shape. The only exercise she got was running after her kids, and as for her diet, "I ate whatever I wanted," she said. But when she started feeling so fatigued she would tire from just washing her hair or carrying a laundry basket, she knew something was wrong. Two months later she suffered a massive heart attack. Although she had a family history of heart disease, she lay in the hospital thinking, "Why is this happening to me? I'm way too young."

Now 42-year-old Volpe does her half hour on the treadmill or stationary bike five days a week and has given up cholesterol-boosting no-no's like cheese and ice cream in favor of a low-fat diet. "If I had it all to do over, I certainly would have eaten better and exercised," she said.

The fact that heart attack is the No. 1 killer among women just doesn't register with us. Five hundred thousand women die of cardiovascular disease each year. Yet the image of an old man clutching his chest is what we visualize.

Lori Anne Parker was driving home from her teaching job in July of 2009, when she felt a pain that started in her fingers then shot up her arm and into her chest. Later that night, she vomited. A man would have recognized these symptoms as a heart attack, but Parker assumed it was the flu.

The following day when she felt her heart racing, she researched heart attack symptoms in women but still didn't call her doctor. Too much caffeine, she thought. It wasn't until four days later, when all of the symptoms returned, that she realized she had suffered a heart attack that night and was now having another one. She rushed to the hospital where doctors performed emergency triple bypass surgery.

Parker, who is just 40 years old, is lucky to be alive. "I've been a hot yoga-practicing vegetarian for 20 years with no family history of heart disease or elevated cholesterol. I've never smoked. As a woman, I had worried about breast cancer but never about my heart," said Parker, who is a painter from Whites Creek, Tenn.

Both Parker and Volpe hope their stories will urge women to not just recognize their symptoms but also take immediate action. "It's also important to understand that while staying fit and eating well is crucial to warding off heart attack risk, it doesn't make you immune," said Parker. Still, the American Heart Association reported that regular exercise reduces risk of coronary disease in women by up to 40 percent, and Parker credits her healthy lifestyle for her speedy recovery. In addition to yoga, she has since added treadmill walking to her fitness routinefour days a week and is mindful of squeezing in extra walking during the day, like by choosing the copy machine farthest from her desk, for instance.


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Fitness Guidelines for a Healthy Heart
Do at least 150 minutes per week of moderate or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise -- or a combination of both intensities. Think: 30 minutes a day, five times a week. If you can't fit that in, you can still get the benefits by dividing your time into two or three segments of 10 to 15 minutes per day. If you're new to exercise, walking is the easiest way to get your body moving and burn calories. The American Heart Association also has a nutrition center to help you get your diet on a heart-healthy track.

Know the Symptoms
"Don't discount classic men's symptoms because you think women's are different. Some are the same, such as chest pain, shortness of breath and sweating," said Dr. Mary Ann Bauman, Go Red for Women spokesperson and medical director for Women's Health and Community Relations at Integris Health in Oklahoma City. Other subtle symptoms include:

	
		Pain in the upper back and across shoulder blades
	
		Discomfort in the jaw and arm
	
		Nausea and vomiting
	
		Indigestion
	
		Weakness and fatigue

"One major red flag for me is when a patient says she has noticed a significant difference in exercise tolerance. For example, she was able to walk a mile and now has to rest halfway through or she was able to walk all around the grocery store but now stops to rest and then continues," added Bauman.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/keeping-your-heart-healthy-after-40/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19819466/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/keeping-your-heart-healthy-after-40/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>heart attacks</category><category>heart health</category><category>womens health</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 04 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Pilates for Breast Cancer Survivors</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/21/pilates-for-breast-cancer-survivors/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/21/pilates-for-breast-cancer-survivors/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/21/pilates-for-breast-cancer-survivors/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
	
		Frank Peluso Photography, LLC

In 2001, Doreen Puglisi, an exercise physiologist, opened a wellness studio in Denville, N.J., where she offered classes and lectures to those with specific medical issues ranging from a skiing injury to cancer. Three years later, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. "After my surgery, I couldn't believe there wasn't a standard for rehab," she recalled. So Puglisi created one herself.

The result is the nationwide Pink Ribbon Recovery Program, a Pilates-based group of exercises that restores mobility and strength to the affected shoulder and arm. "The one thing doctors don't tell you is that so many daily activities can become impossible after surgery," said Puglisi. "I remember being reduced to tears because I didn't have the arm strength to blow-dry my hair or push and pull a vacuuum. Putting on a seatbelt was a nightmare. You think to yourself: No one told me this would happen. Will I ever feel normal again?" It took about a year, but thanks to her exercise routine, the 49 year-old says she's gotten back 90 percent of her mobility.


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After years of advising breast cancer survivors to avoid physical activity during and following treatment (including scrubbing, pushing and pulling), a body of new research challenges these traditional restrictions.

In December, a study done at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found slowly progressive weight training can reduce the chances of increased arm swelling (lymphedema) by 70 percent. This supports the team's earlier study in 2009, which found weight training reduces worsening of symptoms among women who already have lymphedema.

A large 2005 study of almost 3,000 participants found women with breast cancer who did moderate intensity exercise three to five hours a week were 50 percent less likely to die of the disease than sedentary women. Other studies also found cardio reduced anxiety and depression, which both affect up to 20 percent of breast cancer patients.

Puglisi said the emotional and psychological benefits are immeasurable. "Exercising gives you back some control over a situation in which you have so little control. And it's the one part of your treatment that actually makes you feel good." The Pink Ribbon Recovery Program is used in 11 medical facilities, and there are 500 certified instructors in the U.S. Here are a couple of exercises from the program.

Important note: Every woman's course of treatment and her response to it is unique. Therefore check with your doctor before beginning this or any exercise program.

Try out these two moves in the videos below. 

	

	<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/21/pilates-for-breast-cancer-survivors/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19806047/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/21/pilates-for-breast-cancer-survivors/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>breast cancer</category><category>exercises</category><category>pilates</category><category>The Pink Ribbon Program</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Trixter Xdream Virtual Indoor Bike: We Tried It</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/11/trixter-xdream-we-tried-it/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/11/trixter-xdream-we-tried-it/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/11/trixter-xdream-we-tried-it/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

	
		Holly St. Lifer

I'm a fitness writer whom you'll never find on an indoor cardio machine. Even the most
driving playlist can't keep my eyes off the clock ticking down each boring second. And
watching TV is out since I know research shows you burn fewer calories if you're glued to the
tube. I love running or biking outside where I'm distracted by weather, birds, cars, people
and other dynamic surroundings.

Then I heard about the new Trixter Xdream, the first virtual indoor bike. I took my baby
boomer boyfriend with me to the Sports Center at Chelsea Piers so we could both check it out. You'll never find him on a Stairmaster; he also prefers the outdoors and makes it a point to bike anywhere he needs to go that's less than two miles.

It's billed as "the first fitness machine that simulates the outdoor riding experience," and
except for the absence of wind in my face, this is accurate. The connection is between your
avatar on the screen and your actual movement on the bike. You feel gears, brakes,
handlebars, pedals, cranks and seat sensors. My mind and body became totally immersed in the
ride and 30 minutes flew by.


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The Xdream first showed up in Boston University's gym in July. Chelsea Piers premiered it in New York City in October, and this year, it's hitting YMCAs in Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Florida and Pennsylvania, including Boston, NYC, Philadelphia, Glastonbury and Miami. You'll also find it in many Gold's, Anytime and Sportsclub LA gyms.

Pluses: Where do I start? In lab tests it burned 55 percent more calories than a standard indoor bike. You're also using your upper body big time. The trails are interval based, the most effective form of fat and calorie burning. You can race against other members or against yourself from an earlier race (ghost avatar) to see how much you've improved. There are 80 trails to win, but you have to win the section in order to progress to a new one. I love this thing.

Minuses: None. Boyfriend Billy just hopped on and took off, but I needed about 15 minutes to
get my upper body into the act so I could master the steering. It takes some finessing. But I would definitely not consider it a minus.

Takeaway:  Unlike any other cardio machine, the Xdream is really fun. Chelsea Piers' trainer
Mike Hernandez says members who hate cardio are lining up to ride this bike. You get an
incredible, sweat-drenched workout while totally focused on staying on course and racing
against either yourself or other riders.

 <p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/11/trixter-xdream-we-tried-it/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19786475/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/11/trixter-xdream-we-tried-it/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>indoor cycling</category><category>stationary bike</category><category>trixter xdream</category><category>we-tried-it</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 11 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Stay Slim Through Perimenopause</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/17/stay-slim-through-perimenopause/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/17/stay-slim-through-perimenopause/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/17/stay-slim-through-perimenopause/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

	
		
			Diamond Rubber Products
	


Peruse articles about weight gain in women over 40 and you'll find the culprit is often associated with menopause and the decline in estrogen production. But what about those of us who are in shape, years away from menopause, yet we're gradually gaining weight anyway? We work out harder than before to address our slowing metabolism, and frequent desserts and bread with dinner have become distant memories. Yet those tried-and-true methods just aren't doing the trick anymore. I still put on six pounds in the last 10 years. If this sounds like you, here's what you need to know.

First of all, those muffin tops aren't from estrogen loss or decline. In fact, you're actually estrogen dominant during perimenopause, a period of time that can last up to 15 years. "The levels of progesterone, DHEA and human growth hormone, which build up and repair muscle, are declining -- while estrogen and cortisol, the hormones responsible for breaking down tissue and muscle, are usually produced at the same rate. So even if you're already exercising, this relative dominance of the estrogen and cortisol over progesterone and DHEA can cause decreased muscle mass and fat can take its place," said Dr. Robban Sica, who practices at the Center for the Healing Arts in Orange, Conn.

Here are four strategies to counteract the change in hormone levels.

Lift heavier weights: At our age, bulking up from heavy lifting isn't an issue. So you already know to strength train three times a week. Now be sure your weights are heavy enough that you feel fatigued after almost 10 reps. Unlike the Boniva commercial featuring Sally Fields smiling while she's lifting dumbbells, by rep seven, you should be wincing and breathing hard. Hit every major muscle group and work in different planes. Also be certain to focus on core work. "Using the deepest abdominals will greatly impact your strength and body shape because working your abs properly creates a natural corset. You can lose inches," said Jae Berman, personal trainer and registered dietician at the San Francisco Bay Club.

Bioidentical hormones: Most health food stores have over-the-counter progesterone (cream) and DHEA (in pill form). "While it is optimal to be monitored by a knowledgeable physician, you can take 10-25 milligrams of DHEA and apply 1/8-1/2 teaspoon of progesterone per day, but for the progesterone, apply only during the two weeks before your period each month. If you're at the phase in perimenopause where you're skipping periods, just resume the progesterone two weeks after the missed period would have ended," said Sica.


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Cut calories -- for good: Your days of looking at weight maintenance as a simple matter
of calories in and calories out are over. What ultimately worked for me was Bermans's suggestion of slashing 300 calories a day from my typical daily diet. "After the holidays, keep a food journal during a couple of typical days for you," Berman said. "It should be easy to spot the extra calories. They're usually in cheese, butter, nuts, salad dressing and alcohol. From there determine foods you can easily live without." Here's what I got rid of: two teaspoons of sugar in my coffee (30 calories) and whole-grain bagels with butter (280). I also cut back on portions. Rather than mindlessly eating handfuls of almonds and raisins, I'm careful to keep it down to a small handful (165). I make sure I put only a tablespoon of low-fat dressing on my salads; before I have no idea how much I used. Instead of sipping wine a few times a week, now I have only one (120). I hardly eat pasta or bread; before they were staples.

Be patient: It took about seven weeks for me to lose two pounds out of the six I've put on. Ten years ago, it would have taken me seven days. Stick with it.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/17/stay-slim-through-perimenopause/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19757136/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/17/stay-slim-through-perimenopause/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>fit-after-40</category><category>fit-over-40</category><category>healthy aging</category><category>perimenopause</category><category>weight loss</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Over-40 Tips to Stave Off Holiday Weight Gain</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/19/over-40-tips-to-stave-off-holiday-weight-gain/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/19/over-40-tips-to-stave-off-holiday-weight-gain/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/19/over-40-tips-to-stave-off-holiday-weight-gain/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
	
		Theodore Mankovich

Sure, younger people entertain for the holidays, but for the most part, we're the ones in charge of pulling off the big events. What that means for your waistline is that instead of sweating buckets in a spin class, you're standing in the kitchen up to your elbows in chocolate. But this year, you don't have to resign yourself to extra poundage. These doable strategies won't help you lose weight, but they'll definitely keep you on track until the festivities wind down.

You already know this, but it bears repeating: Your metabolism is a lot slower than it was in your 30s, and every calorie counts.

Eat before the party. Sound counterintuitive? It's not when you consider that eating a low-fat yogurt or half a turkey sandwich on whole wheat can save you from scarfing during the festivities rather than nibbling. "I have no idea why, but my older clients in particular love cheese, wine and nuts," said Jae Berman, a registered dietitian at the San Francisco Bay Club. "Having a light snack prior to the event makes it easier to bypass the hors d'oeuvres part of the festivities." You'll come home having consumed about 500 less calories!

Turn your kitchen into a gym. "Muscle's what keeps your metab revved so any bit of toning you can do makes a difference," said Hollywood trainer Kristin Anderson. Try push-ups against the counter super set with tricep dips. Aim for 20 reps each half hour. Or mix it up by devising rep counts based on how many ingredients are in a dish or the number of recipe servings. Also hit the floor for a few 30-second planks. It's the ultimate calorie burner and ab tightener, and it definitely raises metabolism. For another engine booster, do a few rounds of 20 jump squats. If you can find ten minutes, do all of these as a non-stop circuit. New research, published in Science Translation Medicine found only 10 minutes of brisk activity keeps metabolism revved for an hour.

Crunch while you cook. When you're cooking, it's so easy to succumb to the heaps of delicious dishes around you. Instead, have baby carrots on hand and burn a chocolate-scented candle. "Believe it or not, snacking on sweet, crunchy carrots combined with the smell of chocolate will make you feel completely satiated," said Anderson.

Another great tip -- no matter how old you are -- is to wear slim-fitting clothes to parties so you're aware of your waistline. And carry a travel toothbrush. "When you don't want to eat or drink any more, use the ladies' room to brush your teeth and re-apply lipstick. This helps you resist the urge to have 'just one more,'" suggested Anderson.

More on Staying Holiday Season Slim From That's Fit:
Healthy Mashed Potatoes, Thanksgiving Diet Tips And More
Dr. Oz's Shortcuts to Losing Weight 
One Word Makes Weight Loss Easier<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/19/over-40-tips-to-stave-off-holiday-weight-gain/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19720766/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/19/over-40-tips-to-stave-off-holiday-weight-gain/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>christmas parties</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>holiday diet tips</category><category>holiday exercising</category><category>holiday weight loss</category><category>over 40</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 19 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Designer Norma Kamali Is Fit and Sexy at 65</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/22/designer-norma-kamalis-secrets-to-fun-fit-and-sexy-at-65/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/22/designer-norma-kamalis-secrets-to-fun-fit-and-sexy-at-65/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/22/designer-norma-kamalis-secrets-to-fun-fit-and-sexy-at-65/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
Norma Kamali, Inc.

Norma Kamali looks like she's 45, not 65. In fact, when I met last week I was struck by her radiance. The petite, pretty designer looked like she was wearing nothing but mascara under her shades. Her down-to-earth personality, her smile and easy laugh, her lilac toe polish and sexy stroll -- everything about her exuded vigor. I wasn't surprised to learn she has a 14-hour work day and takes high-intensity exercise classes seven days a week. 

Now Kamali aims to impart her concepts about healthy living to the rest of us. Earlier this month, the recent Project Runway guest opened a Wellness Cafe in her flagship store that houses "grandma recipe" products and offers presentations given by pros like raw food chef Matteo. Here, a few of her pearls for feeling, as she playfully writes on her website, healthy, sexy, fun and fashionable. 

That's Fit: Tell us about your workouts. 
Norma Kamali: I take classes at Physique 57. It's like a ballet boot camp. The approach creates a lean, strong, dancer-type body. Besides the physical aspect, I also feel much clearer mentally after each class and I believe this demanding daily exercise improves my sleep quality. 

TF: Physique 57's classes are rigorous, requiring great strength and stamina -- at any age. How long did it take you to reach that level of fitness? 
NK: I've been exercising my whole life and have done Pilates, yoga, Tai Chi, Radu, gyrokinesis -- the list goes on. So I was in good shape already. I like this routine because it uses body weight to strengthen, it's simple and it works fast. And I never feel like I've mastered the class. The better I get at it, the harder it is. The challenge makes me feel strong and that physical strength make me feel empowered in all aspects of my life. 

TF: Is it true you were a huge bread lover but you gave it up? 
NK: Yes, I could eat a whole loaf by myself! But since I've given it up for food as nature prepares it, I've got more energy. I drink green juice, and eat lots of nuts and berries, salmon at least three times a week and salads with lemon and olive oil with sea salt. 

TF: Let's talk about your lifelong love affair with olive oil. 
NK: I can't get enough of it. I believe nature has an abundance of simple, timeless products that are good for us both internally and externally. They've survived this planet's wars and toxicity. Olive oil is my favorite. When I was growing up it was a source of nutrition, for keeping regular, and as a skin softener and hair conditioner. I consume a good amount every day. I created an entire skin product line around it. 

TF: There's more to your vitality than a committed exercise routine and a wholesome diet, what's your secret?
NK: I'm lucky to love what I do for my career and even though I've fallen down and gotten up a hundred times, I always feel grateful for having this opportunity. I also surround myself with people of all age groups but they're mostly young. And being passionately curious, to want to learn and find out more about life every day, keeps my youthful spirit alive. My goal is to be as healthy and active until the last day I have on this planet and I work hard at it. 

More on healthy aging:
Four Rules to Grow Younger, Stronger, Sexier
65 Year-Old Has Hip Replacement Then Climbs Everest
New Guidelines for Athletes Over 50: Bring It On!<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/22/designer-norma-kamalis-secrets-to-fun-fit-and-sexy-at-65/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19670974/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/22/designer-norma-kamalis-secrets-to-fun-fit-and-sexy-at-65/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>anti-aging</category><category>energy boost</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>norma kamali</category><category>wellness</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Real Men Do Yoga: The Growing Trend for Guys</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/17/older-men-doing-more-yoga/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/17/older-men-doing-more-yoga/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/17/older-men-doing-more-yoga/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
Holly St. Lifer

When 77-year-old Casper Henselmann took his first yoga class 10 years ago, he was one of only two men of a certain age. "I remember the instructor telling me not to compare myself to the 20-year-old pretzel standing next to me," he recalled. But over the years the class, held at Chelsea Piers Sportscenter in New York City, has grown to attract at least a dozen regulars over 50. "I guess yoga is no longer associated with old ladies and sissies," said Henselmann. 

That's for sure. Yoga studios all over the country are experiencing an influx of men who are past their prime. "Yoga's become so mainstream that a lot of older men know about its mind-body benefits, and they think, 'I should try that,'" said Andrea Marcum, owner of U Studio Yoga in Los Angeles. Just five years ago, she had a couple of guys over 40. Now her classes average 15 or more. "Many baby boomers know they're at a point when they can't take their health for granted anymore. Then they observe these incredibly fit contemporaries in a class and think: I'll have what they're having," she said.

Within the last six months, Tom Larkin, owner of Sanctuary for Yoga, Body and Spirit in Nashville, has seen an influx of aging men. "I think it's due to word of mouth," he said. "Two stumbling blocks tend to be their fear of being too tight and that the routine isn't rigorous enough. Guys are finding out from other guys that neither are true." 

Henselmann's instructor, 76-year-old Joan Klyhn, agrees that it's a domino affect. "When one old guy sees another one doing yoga, the process starts," Klyhn said. "Josh told me he felt isolated doing the machines and then noticed Casper in class so he tried it. And then Bob decided to join in, so critical mass evolved rather quickly, by example. As soon as someone starts feeling better, he mentions it to another in the locker room or club cafe, and there's another yoga convert."

Bill Herguth, 64, took up the ancient practice hoping to loosen up. "I run a boat rental business, so I'm used to lifting 50-pound kayaks all day, but when I hit 60, I began to feel stiff a lot in my upper body. A few women friends convinced me to give yoga a try. Now I go not just to stretch but to de-stress. It's my time to unwind."

The calming benefit combined with the physical challenge proved to be an unexpected, but potent panacea for 47-year-old John Stewart of Beverly Hills. "When I was hit hard by the market tanking, I was so stressed that I couldn't sleep or eat. Someone recommended I try yoga. I felt better after just one class. I had exerted myself and tested my flexibility, all while having to stay calm and clear, and that feeling of well-being stayed with me. I've since recommended it to friends who are also type-A males, and they're hooked now, too." 


Want to try yoga for yourself? Check out our Yoga Videos for easy-to-do instruction. <p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/17/older-men-doing-more-yoga/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19629954/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/17/older-men-doing-more-yoga/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>fit-after-40</category><category>healthy aging</category><category>Mens Health</category><category>yoga</category><category>yoga trends</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 17 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>The Best Pilates Moves for Losing Baby Weight</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/27/stars-favorite-pilates-moves-to-lose-baby-weight/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/27/stars-favorite-pilates-moves-to-lose-baby-weight/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/27/stars-favorite-pilates-moves-to-lose-baby-weight/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

Bryan Bedder, Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival

August is one of the biggest birth months. If you're a new mom and want to tighten and tone your abdominals pronto, make like Uma Thurman and Christy Turlington and try Pilates. "Both of these women are extremely flexible and loose limbed to begin with, and then pregnancy stretches all the muscles in your midsection even more. Pilates focus[ed] on the core toned them both up faster," said Alycea Ungaro, owner of Real Pilates, who has also designed post-baby routines for Sarah Michelle Gellar and Campbell Brown. 

Besides banishing belly flab, Pilates helps new mothers recover well from upper and lower back and pelvic pain and postural problems like stooped shoulders, a contracted chest and a forward-jutting head. "Christy's focus, for instance, was strengthening her arms and upper back, which got weak from carrying her baby all the time," said Ungaro. 

Here are Ungaro's "as soon as you get home from the hospital" exercises:

Kegels: To reactivate your pelvic floor muscles, squeeze your rectum tightly. Hold for five seconds and concentrate on the tightening you'll feel within the vaginal canal. Release to a three count. Repeat five times. 

Ab Wake-Ups: During breast-feeding, your uterus contracts and eventually returns to its original size. Help your abdominal wall do the same by pulling your abs in toward your spine, holding for five seconds and releasing. Continue for the length of the feed.

Do Ungaro's New Moms Part 1 - Find Your Abs series within the first few days of delivering your baby. 
 
Then after four to six weeks and with your doctor's clearance, dive into her New Moms Part 2 workout a minimum of three times a week (but try to do it five). 



Perform these moves on their own or integrate them into your larger workout routine. Increase your reps as you get stronger. Just remember to check with your doctor about when the right time is for you to begin an exercise routine after giving birth.

New research shows Pilates can also give you amazingly sexy, sculpted arms.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/27/stars-favorite-pilates-moves-to-lose-baby-weight/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19600943/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/27/stars-favorite-pilates-moves-to-lose-baby-weight/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>campbell brown</category><category>celebrity moms</category><category>Christy Turlington</category><category>flat stomach</category><category>losing baby weight</category><category>pilates</category><category>post pregnancy body</category><category>sarah michelle geller</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Four Rules to Grow Younger, Stronger, Sexier</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/20/four-rules-to-grow-younger-stronger-sexier/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/20/four-rules-to-grow-younger-stronger-sexier/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/20/four-rules-to-grow-younger-stronger-sexier/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
Chris Crowley, Workman Publishing


If you're over 40 and still haven't found that single motivator to convince you to embrace exercise, how's this: the odds are in your favor that you've got another 40 years ahead of you, and if you're not strong, that's a really long time to feel frail and stale. This premise is the driving force behind the popular book series "Younger Next Year," by co-author Dr. Henry S. Lodge. Here are some of his straight-to-the point directives for making your life extraordinary and youthful all the way through. 

Join a gym: Even though you may do non-gym activities like biking, skiing and running, you still need to drag yourself to a place twice a week to lift some weights so you can continue to build muscle. And FYI, curling three-pound dumbbells isn't weight training. "The weights should feel heavy and challenging and require you to engage your legs, back, arms and core. You should also have access to a variety of machines and props so you can work your muscles in all sorts of ways," said Lodge.

Which is the best gym for you? "The one you'll go to," he said. "In most cases, the gym closest to your home or office is best. That said, if you don't like that one, look farther away. Your muscles could care less where you go. Ideally you want a gym with members of all ages." And if you're self-conscious at first, the author promises you'll eventually get over it.

Work out -- hard: "The 'park further from the mall so you can walk more' advice is stupid," Lodge said. "Or it's a viable strategy if you're planning to die just short of your 70s. But for those of us who plan to live well into our 80s, a higher level of fitness is required."

It's true: All the science says your level of brain function, energy, optimism and sex drive is directly tied to your level of fitness. "Sure, being a little bit fit is better than being sedentary, but why stop there?" said Lodge. "That's like saying, what's the least good life I can have versus what's the best?" If you're not sure what vigorous, respectable exercise means -- and here's a hint: It's not a brisk walk -- take a spin class. 

Celebrate your fit body and sharp mind: Obviously Helen Mirren knows she's a knockout in a bikini, and I'm guessing it makes her feel young and incredibly cool. Do the same for yourself. Whether you speed through your first tri or just feel sleek walking down the street, take pride in how you feel and appreciate your efforts. I take particular note when I bound up the subway steps while everyone around me is trudging and how sexy I feel when I'm drenched in sweat after a five-mile run. Maybe for you it will be noticing greater performance at work or an increased libido. Working out translates to a better version of you by a huge margin.

Just do it: You don't have to like the investment; you just need to like the reward. "When it's not fun, so what? You have to have the discipline to do unpleasant work sometimes. The bottom line is the payoff is enormous," said Lodge. "Your body's cell turnover provides you with brand-new muscle cells every 100 days. It's like getting a new body every few months. Whether that body is better or worse than the old one is up to you." 

Learn how yoga can also help you live longer.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/20/four-rules-to-grow-younger-stronger-sexier/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19597153/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/20/four-rules-to-grow-younger-stronger-sexier/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>fit-after-40</category><category>fitness</category><category>healthy aging</category><category>look younger</category><category>sex drive</category><category>stay young tips</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>DVD Review: Aerobarre</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/13/dvd-review-aerobarre/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/13/dvd-review-aerobarre/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/13/dvd-review-aerobarre/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

Aerospace

I've visited former boxing champ Michael Olajide's gym and interviewed him as an expert for several fitness stories, so I already knew he was knowledgeable and creative. I've also met his partner, former ballet dancer Leila Fazel, who is just as experienced and passionate. Together they created this high-intensity hybrid of ballet and boxing that tones your entire body and improves your posture and balance. Olajide is an excellent instructor, and he offers continuous form tips interspersed with playful boxing jargon: "Don't lean forward; maintain even distribution ... that's it, now you can't be touched."

Level of Difficulty
This workout is intermediate to advanced, but Olajide encourages beginners to try it and work up to it slowly. Still, it requires athletic coordination and endurance. 

Next-Day Soreness
My back, arms, thighs and tush were moderately sore -- just enough to know the routine had done its job. 

Who's It For?
If you're used to high-intensity exercise like running and all-out strength-cardio or spinning classes, this DVD is the perfect at-home companion. Just be sure to use hand weights to get the full upper-body benefit and keep your heart rate high. One note: If you're already an adept pugilist, this workout, which takes time to teach you how to move properly, may feel too rudimentary. 

Likes
Both Fazel and Olajide are authentic, and it's obvious: Both love their respective art forms and how they've blended them to "get all muscles involved." I have "left-right" problems so even though I'm coordinated, I've always found boxing combinations tough to nail down. These two pros break it down simply and build on moves gradually in subsequent rounds, so I was able to master them all. This DVD boosted my confidence. I need a driving music track, and this one, like the workout itself, is an original hybrid, combining classical and urban house. It definitely helped keep me pumped! Unlike other exercise videos in which the instructor urges you on by making silly comments like he can see you if you cheat, Olajide's voice-over talks to you and Fazel (who performs the routine) with an easy, cool intelligence. 

Dislikes
I wanted more ab exercises. The cover boasts a bonus ab section, but there are only three moves and the round lasts just four and a half minutes. 

Bottom Line
You get an effective, head-to-toe workout that's a lot more fun than your usual squats and curls. But the best part is that once you do the routine a few times, you feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment at mastering new ways to move your body with power and grace. 

See how Padma Lakshmi boxed off her baby weight.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/13/dvd-review-aerobarre/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19588248/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/13/dvd-review-aerobarre/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>ballet</category><category>boxing</category><category>dvd-reviews</category><category>fitness</category><category>michael olajide</category><category>workout dvds</category><category>workouts</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 13 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>David Kirsch: Maximize Your Training Sessions!</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/28/david-kirsch-maximize-your-training-sessions/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/28/david-kirsch-maximize-your-training-sessions/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/28/david-kirsch-maximize-your-training-sessions/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
David Kirsch

In this economy, if you're lucky enough to be able to afford a personal trainer, you want every moment of that hour to count. But even the most committed sweat vets can unknowingly waste precious toning and burning time. That's Fit spoke with celebrity trainer David Kirsch to learn how he advises clients like Heidi Klum, Liv Tyler and Faith Hill.

That's Fit: What if I feel intimidated by my trainer?
David Kirsch: At your initial meeting with a potential trainer, you need to feel like you can establish a relationship with this person. If not, then she's not right for you. You may be paying a trainer to push you, but there has to be a comfortable line of communication and trust so you can talk openly about what you may be feeling both physically or emotionally on any given day. Once a trainer gets to know you, she should be able to know whether you're just dogging it or not.

That's Fit: What do you see as the most common form of self-sabotage? 
DK:  This might seem obvious, but first you have to want to be there, and not all clients do. Just because you show up at a gym doesn't mean you'll see results. It takes hard work, and you need to be mentally focused and motivated. When a client is constantly asking how much time is left, I know they really aren't into it and then neither am I. If you're not motivated, your trainer's not motivated. Before heading to the gym, take a good hard look at yourself in the bathroom mirror, preferably without clothes on. Do you like what you see? That should serve as a pretty good motivator. 

That's Fit: What are some preparation tips?
DK: Show up 30 minutes early and leave phones and PDAs in the locker. I don't allow either in my gym. Before you arrive, tidy up loose ends with work and family so you're not distracted. While you're training, that's all your mind and body are meant to be doing. If you're multitasking, you won't accomplish as much. 

That's Fit: What's a widespread client trip-up a personal trainer might not catch? 
DK: Often a client will leave the gym after an effective workout and then they'll have a couple of doughnuts when they get to the office. Being healthy and reaching your goals -- whatever they are -- takes commitment 24/7, not just during that one hour. So your trainer should be talking to you about a comprehensive plan that includes an entire wellness strategy. 

Want more? David Kirsch shows you how to correct workout mistakes.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/28/david-kirsch-maximize-your-training-sessions/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19567123/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/28/david-kirsch-maximize-your-training-sessions/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>David Kirsch</category><category>fitness</category><category>personal trainer</category><category>personal training</category><category>PersonalTrainer</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>65-Year-Old Has Hip Replacement Then Climbs Everest</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/16/65-year-old-has-hip-replacement-then-climbs-everest/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/16/65-year-old-has-hip-replacement-then-climbs-everest/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/16/65-year-old-has-hip-replacement-then-climbs-everest/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[


Don Healy

When I heard that a guy from Greenwich Village named Don Healy had climbed Mount Everest for his 65th birthday, I assumed he was one of those lifelong, elite athlete types. I pictured him as an older Lance Armstrong. But that couldn't have been further from the truth. "I was pretty much a couch potato until I hit 61," he said. "I was never into sports and I never felt comfortable in a gym." 

Healy had been slim all his life so he never thought much about fitness. Then he turned 60. "At that point I had gone up a couple of waist sizes and I started to feel sluggish," he recalled. His doctor also told him he had to get his blood pressure and cholesterol under control. So when a charismatic, 22 year-old colleague who was visiting with Healy at his New Hampshire summer house asked him to work out with him, he went along with it. "It was great timing. This kid comes along who's an extraordinary athlete and trains every day as part of his life. He had free weights, resistance bands, even his own pull-up stand. And even though I was his boss, he wouldn't take no for an answer if I tried to beg off." By the end of the summer, Healy had skimmed 15 pounds and had energy to spare. He was hooked. 

That's when he decided he'd reach for his childhood dream: Climbing Mount Everest. But soon after, he fell off his bike and broke his hip. That only made him more determined. He had hip replacement surgery in October, 2007 and was back in training that January at the Sports Center at Chelsea Piers when he climbed the Gros Piton (2,600 feet) in St. Lucia. "Setbacks are a part of life but we shouldn't allow ourselves to be limited by them. They shouldn't become excuses for older people to take it easy. You're as old as you feel and you can do more than you think," said Healy. This past May 24, after a two month expedition that ended in a final eight hour trek in a blinding snowstorm, he reached the Mount Everest summit. 

Healy's website, Everest Hip Hop, has this written across the home page: Age and physical setbacks need not be barriers to achieving one's goals. It's about the ability to replace limits.  Hopefully he'll inspire you to embrace the notion that age really is just a number. 

Healy's motivator was pursuing a childhood dream. Read about how an over-40 woman gets her juices flowing by running to help orphans with AIDS.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/16/65-year-old-has-hip-replacement-then-climbs-everest/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19549618/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/16/65-year-old-has-hip-replacement-then-climbs-everest/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>don healy</category><category>DonHealy</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>fitness</category><category>mens health</category><category>Mount Everest</category><category>mountain climbing</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Fit After 40: Over 40 Stars' Stay-Slim Secrets</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/18/fit-after-40-over-40-stars-stay-slim-secrets/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/18/fit-after-40-over-40-stars-stay-slim-secrets/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/18/fit-after-40-over-40-stars-stay-slim-secrets/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

Steve Granitz, WireImage.com

If you read this column, it's likely you have a lot in common with Julia Roberts. She's over 40 (42), she's incredibly busy, and she's got a bunch of kids. Her metabolism is slowing just like the rest of ours, and after two pregnancies, her shape doesn't bounce back as fast as it might have a decade ago. Still, she's got a body a 30-year-old would kill for. 

To find out how she does it, I spoke with her trainer, Kathy Kaehler. "Julia likes step aerobics so to modify her workout in her 40s, I ramped up the intensity by adding two-pound dumbbells," she said. "The extra weight pushes her heart to work harder so she burns more calories in the same amount of time -- and the resistance helps maintain muscle in her upper body. It also helps that for all the years I have known Julia, whether I am working with her or not, she finds the time to make exercise a priority." 

Upping the sweat factor without adding time, along with a serious commitment to hoisting weights, are Kaehler's two defenses against aging. As soon as 50-year-old Kris Jenner entered menopause, she started gaining belly fat. To slim down the Kardashian sisters' mom, Kaehler switched Jenner's emphasis on cardio to a focus on total body strength training. "At this age, it's not about losing fat as much as rebuilding muscle and bone loss," said the former Today Show fitness correspondent. "Cardio is still important -- think 20 minutes of high intensity bouts almost every day. But strength training three times a week is the real priority as you age."

Kaehler also works with 57-year-old eternal bombshell Kim Basinger. "Her challenge is a little different -- sometimes she can overdo her commitment to exercise, and that's not always a good thing," said Kaehler. "She's determined to stick to her routine and she can be too hard on herself, both of which can lead to burnout and the risk of overuse injury. She needs to be reminded that a rest and recovery day is actually part of the process. She's the same with her nutrition plan. I often tell her it's okay to indulge, it's not going to derail you!" (The trainer's favorite indulgence: The new low-cal Breyers Smooth &amp; Dreamy bars and sandwiches.)

Looking for more over-40 stay slim secrets? See what you think of 46-year-old Marisa Tomei's latest fitness DVD.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/18/fit-after-40-over-40-stars-stay-slim-secrets/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19517100/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/18/fit-after-40-over-40-stars-stay-slim-secrets/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>celebrity fitness</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>healthy aging</category><category>julia roberts</category><category>Kathy Kaehler</category><category>Kim Basinger</category><category>kris jenner</category><category>marisa tomei</category><category>over 40</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Sculpt Sexy Arms with Pilates</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/31/sculpt-sexy-arms-with-pilates/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/31/sculpt-sexy-arms-with-pilates/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/31/sculpt-sexy-arms-with-pilates/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

David Fischer, Getty

Summer is nearly here, the signal to shed layers and break out the tank tops. But this year you can skip the grueling tricep dips and extensions and still have Michele Obama arms: A new study on Pilates yielded an unexpected discovery: The guaranteed ab-toner is also an effective way to strengthen and sculpt your upper body -- particularly your arms. 

In fact, even the researcher was a bit thrown by the results: "I was surprised that subjects improved in their push-up and flexibility as much as they did -- especially considering the routine doesn't really focus on that aspect. This means that a defined core should be paired with great looking arms. Pilates delivers," said June Kloubec, a researcher at the Department of Nutrition and Exercise Science at Bastyr University in Kenmore, Wash. 

The study had 50 middle-aged men and women do an hour of traditional Pilates moves twice a week for 12 weeks. Then they did push ups to measure strength. They began the study doing 24 push ups on their knees and ended up being able to do 35. (The control group began with 20.5 and ended with 21.) "I think the arm strength was increased because the core strength was increased," said Kloubec.  "If you can stabilize your core during push-ups you will be able to do more of them. A stronger core allows more of your arm muscles to do the work."

What the study also found is that you don't have to sweat bullets and be super coordinated -- like you would with say stability training -- to get results. These were simple low-intensity moves that don't require equipment or a high degree of skill. So switch up your dumbbells for a mat and get sexy arms (along with a gorgeous, flat tummy) with these traditional Pilates workouts:

How to Get Pilates Abs
Get a Bikini Body in 4 Weeks
The New Pilates Body

Over forty? Pilates can also be a fountain of youth.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/31/sculpt-sexy-arms-with-pilates/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19490818/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/31/sculpt-sexy-arms-with-pilates/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>arm workout</category><category>fitness</category><category>pilates</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 31 May 2010 14:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Why Yoga Helps You Live Longer</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/21/why-yoga-helps-you-live-longer/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/21/why-yoga-helps-you-live-longer/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/21/why-yoga-helps-you-live-longer/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[

Flickr, sunsinger

Although the commercial advertising the alarm device LifeCall with its infamous line, "I've fallen and I can't get up!" still makes me laugh, fear of falling is a serious matter for many older people. Now, Indiana University researchers have found that yoga can reduce that fear. "Our study found yoga increased lower body flexibility and that directly resulted in less fear and a boost to their physical confidence," said Marieke Van Puymbroeck, assistant professor in Indiana University's School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. 

The study involved 14 men and women with an average age of 78, who all said they found themselves in situations where they were afraid they'd fall. After 12 weeks, they reported a six percent fear reduction. They also had increased range of motion, better balance and a 34 percent increase in lower body flexibility. To reap similar results, practice a gentle Hatha-type yoga two to three times a week, said Van Puymbroeck.

Earlier this year, another study found a regular yoga practice may lower the blood compound cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), a marker of inflammation that normally rises due to normal aging and stress. Too much IL-6 can contribute to heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and other age-related conditions. The female participants with an average age of 41 were divided into two groups, novices and experts. The experts had practiced yoga regularly for at least two years. After performing a series of stressful tasks, the results showed the novices had levels of IL-6 that was 41 percent higher than the yoga vets. So the bottom line on this one is that "the anti-inflammatory benefits may only begin after a consistent practice," said Dr. Janice Keicolt-Glaser, professor of psychology and psychiatry and the Ohio State University College of Medicine in Columbus.

There also appears to be a link between loose limbs and healthy arteries. When researchers had participants do a standard sit-and-reach test they found flexibility was a good predictor of artery stiffness among middle age and older people, but not among the younger group. Arterial stiffness increases with age and puts you at cardiovascular risk but healthy blood vessels are elastic which helps to moderate blood pressure. "It's possible that stretching exercises can set into motion physical reactions that slow down arterial stiffening," said study author Kento Yamamoto. To find out he is currently conducting another study to learn how a six-month stretching program affects arteries in over-40 year-olds. 

New to yoga and want to ease in slowly? Try these five Tibetan rites.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/21/why-yoga-helps-you-live-longer/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19475856/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/21/why-yoga-helps-you-live-longer/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>anti-aging</category><category>balance</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>flexibility</category><category>stability</category><category>yoga</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2010 14:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>New Guidelines for Athletes Over 50: Bring It On!</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/14/new-guidelines-for-athletes-over-50-bring-it-on/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/14/new-guidelines-for-athletes-over-50-bring-it-on/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/14/new-guidelines-for-athletes-over-50-bring-it-on/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[When it comes to fitness in this country, there's a bit of a paradox going on. While Americans in general continue to be sedentary, a growing number of older adults are in the best shape of their lives. To specifically address the needs of these aging athletes, the American College of Sports Medicine released their first set of physician guidelines in April for "active individuals over 50." 

According to exercise experts, the development of these guidelines was prompted by a recent cultural shift about our perception of aging. "We used to associate old age with buying a rocking chair and taking it easy. Today it's not unusual to hear of a 75-year-old training for a marathon," said Wojtek J. Chodzko-Zajko, professor and exercise physiologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an ACSM spokesperson. "Doctors want to be able to offer advice to help 50-plus athletes push themselves to their limits."

This report targets a group of baby boomers who have been physically active all their lives and have no intention of slowing down -- not those who only do the minimum 30-minute walk.

While stories abound about octogenarian triathletes, those over 50 are embracing other sports in droves, too. According to the National Sporting Goods Association, participation in skateboarding and ice hockey among the 45- to 54-year-old population shot up over 200 percent between 1998 and 2007. Mountain biking increased 72 percent. 

Among the recommended guidelines, physicians should have thorough knowledge of common overuse injuries such as Achilles tendonitis, lumbar spine stenosis, rotator cuff tears, elbow injuries and osteoarthritis to the hip, knee and shoulder. Therefore, make sure your internist is up on all of these or consider getting yourself an orthopedist. Since the most common cause of sudden death in master athletes is a heart attack, any personal or family history of cardiac issues may warrant additional ECG testing than for the non-athlete. Automatic external defibrillators should be available at all sanctioned masters athlete sporting events, along with personnel trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. 

The report also said that physicians should recommend resistance training to address age-related decline in muscle mass and strength. Chodzko-Zajko suggests taking it one step further: Tailor the weight plan for your specific sport whether it be golf, tennis or running. Strengthening the appropriate muscles helps ward off injury more effectively. Also 50-plus athletes who normally work out at a high intensity level should get periodic "pre-participation evaluations" to examine the individual's "cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and neurologic systems." 

Check out the grueling weight training routine over-40 star Robert Downey, Jr. endured to bulk up for Iron Man 2.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/14/new-guidelines-for-athletes-over-50-bring-it-on/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19472870/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/14/new-guidelines-for-athletes-over-50-bring-it-on/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>aging athlete</category><category>Chodzko-Zajko</category><category>exercise</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>fitness</category><category>healthy aging</category><category>over 50</category><category>physical activity</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 14 May 2010 11:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>Why You Need Pilates Over 40</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/why-you-need-pilates-over-40/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/why-you-need-pilates-over-40/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/why-you-need-pilates-over-40/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[
Recently, I've developed this posture that one trainer dubbed "a jutted forward lean." It's more than a round-shouldered slouch. My head and neck protrude and it's wreaking havoc on my upper back, neck and jaw. I found out this is a common over-40 condition, another by-product of gravity's pull and the accumulation of years of angling forward. 

"We lean forward when we're pregnant, sitting at a keyboard for too long, carrying heavy shoulder bags and children or even texting. Eventually, this all takes its toll on our posture," said Los Angeles-based Pilates guru Karen Schwalbe-Jones. "Over time, chest muscles shorten and back muscles get elongated to accommodate this forward flexion." Translation: Ignore it, and before you know it you've got chronic pain or worse: You've entered pre-Dowager's Hump territory.


Perfect posture and Pilates go hand-in-hand, so since I sit for a living and don't have time to squeeze Pilates classes into my fitness schedule, I asked Schwalbe-Jones to give me three exercises that I could do throughout my workday. These moves open up the chest and tighten and strengthen the back. And of course, since it's Pilates, I expect sleeker abs. 


    Swan: Lie face down on a mat, legs extended, hands under shoulders, elbows touching sides, head facing forward. Be aware that your shoulders are relaxed and down, not hunched up by ears. Engage your abdominal muscles, lifting your belly button up and away from the mat. Keep your ab muscles lifted throughout the exercise. Inhale and lengthen your spine, while engaging pelvic floor, inner thighs, hamstrings and glutes. (Not only does this tone, it helps support your lower back.) Press your forearms and hands into the mat and raise your torso into a long upward arch, keeping hips grounded. Elbows are close to the body, head stays in line with spine by keeping your chin an apple's width from chest. Protect your lower back by sending your tail bone down toward the mat. Exhale, but keep your abdominals lifted as you release the arch returning your torso to start in this sequence: Low-belly, mid-belly, low-ribs, chest and shoulders. Repeat three to five times using an even, flowing breath to support the movements.
    
    Back Support: Sit tall with legs extended, hands directly under shoulders, palms flat on floor, fingers pointing front. Relax your shoulders by rotating them back and down. Feel how that opens your chest. Inhale. On the exhale, lift your pelvis and create a long line from ankle to head. Aim to do this by activating your glutes, abs and back extensors to open hips and stabilize. Pause briefly at the top of the move. Notice the openness of your chest and hips, and the supported length of your body. Inhale to fold just at the hip joint and place your butt back on the floor, keeping shoulders down as you do. Repeat six to eight times.
    
    Swimmer: Lie facedown, legs together. Stretch arms forward, keeping shoulders away from ears. Pull abs in so that you lift your bellybutton up and away from floor while keeping pubic bone down. Lift head and lengthen neck as you extend your arms and legs so far in opposite directions that they naturally come off floor (Superman position). Continue to reach your arms and legs out very long from your center as you quickly pulse up and down alternate right arm and left leg, then left arm and right leg. Coordinate your breath with the movement so that you are breathing for a count of five pulses in and then five pulses out. Rest then repeat two more times.
    

If you want to go high-tech, there is the iPosture, a gadget you wear as a pendant and mild vibrations tell you when you're starting to slouch. 

Want more? Discover other moves you can add to your workout routine to blast that slouch.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/why-you-need-pilates-over-40/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19442935/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/20/why-you-need-pilates-over-40/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>anti-aging</category><category>back</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>Karen Schwalbe-Jones</category><category>neck</category><category>pilates</category><category>posture</category><category>slouch</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST</pubDate></item><item><title>How I Lowered My Cholesterol by 60 Points Without Meds</title><link>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/19/how-to-lower-cholesterol-without-medication/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/19/how-to-lower-cholesterol-without-medication/</guid><comments>http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/19/how-to-lower-cholesterol-without-medication/#comments</comments><description><![CDATA[It all began two Thanksgivings ago. A few weeks before, my doctor had put me on a statin after my cholesterol hit 286. But it irritated my stomach and I had stopped taking it. That night, my then 20-year-old daughter had an idea: "Why don't you try eating like me for a few months and see what happens?"

Eating like Lexi meant becoming a vegan -- no meat, fish, poultry, dairy or eggs -- not a diet I could embrace for long. But I thought she was onto something, so I decided to swear off red meat and dairy for three months except for the two-percent milk I put in my coffee. 

I was shocked when my number went down to 260. Less than two years later I got my latest count after last week's physical: 225! Over the last six months I'd incorporated two other proven LDL reducers -- 2,000 to 4,000 mg a day of fish oil and a few bowls a week of oatmeal. This little experiment was actually working. 

Internists and cardiologists have long touted limiting intake of saturated fats in an effort to reduce cholesterol and I tried that first. But limiting is too vague a directive and as a result, it didn't make much difference. "In order to see real results when you have a genetic predisposition like you do, you have to do it all and that includes exercise, which you were already doing, taking supplements and adopting a stricter diet," said my own doctor, Dr. John Getsos.

Before you assume that steering clear of burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches is too depriving, believe me, it's not hard at all. Note that I said steer clear, not give up. All you need to do is pick up the book, "The Flexitarian Diet," and you're on your way. 

The author, registered dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner, offers up simple substitutes while not expecting you to completely forego a juicy steak here and there. In fact, the actual definition of a flexitarian is "a vegetarian who occasionally eats meat." Last night I had two slices of my son's homemade whole wheat pizza with low fat mozzarella and a little pepperoni on top.

Dr. Getsos told me to add in a daily dose of red yeast rice and I plan to get right on it. In a study conducted by a conglomerate of researchers from Pennsylvania, one group was given Zocor, the other group fish oil and red yeast rice supplements. The alternative treatment group experienced a 42.4 percent reduction in LDL (the bad cholesterol), and the statin group experienced a 39.6 percent reduction. Members of the supplement group also had a substantial dip in triglycerides, another nasty form of fat found in the blood - and they lost more weight. If like me, your cholesterol is too high and you're either having trouble tolerating the cholesterol-lowering meds, you've got safety concerns, or you just don't like the idea of taking drugs long term, chat with your doctor about options to try lowering your cholesterol through your diet. You may also have the added benefit of dropping a few pounds as you cut back on the calories from fat in your diet. 

Take this cholesterol quiz to see how much you really know.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/19/how-to-lower-cholesterol-without-medication/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/forward/19390271/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/19/how-to-lower-cholesterol-without-medication/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p>]]></description><category>cholesterol</category><category>diet</category><category>fit-after-40</category><category>ldl</category><category>red yeast rice</category><dc:creator>Holly St. Lifer</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
