Benefits of Using a Stationary Bike

Most people who decide they want to work on their health and fitness will be trying to find the most effective methods possible. After all, time is precious, and the more calories you can burn in a shorter period, the faster you can get onto something else.

That’s why more and more people see the value in a stationary cycle. You don’t have to leave the house, but you also get to work on your fitness at the same time. Read on to discover why it might be time to clear a space in your home for such exercise equipment.

It Can Help You to Burn Body Fat

Getting fit and healthy can have the bonus of helping you to burn body fat, and a stationary cycle can help. When you work out at a high intensity on a bike, you can burn calories while building strength. The result? Fat loss. In some instances, you may be able to burn as much as 600 calories with one hour of use.

Many studies over the years have shown the value of eating well and accompanying it with a fitness routine. If you are ready to work on yourself to feel and look better, then a stationary bicycle may be an excellent place to start.

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Why Group Fitness is More Fun Than Just Going to the Gym

Some people may see group fitness as going to the gym. While you are surrounded by people, it’s still quite an isolating activity – you just share a space with others. Gyms are effective for many people, offering a stimulating, encouraging area in which to carry out exercise with expert help on hand.

However, when it comes to the fun factor, solo gym workouts won’t be at the top of the list. Of course, you have access to a lot of different machines and workout equipment you wouldn’t have at home, but it’s not social like other options. That’s why group fitness classes such as BodyBalance are fast becoming popular workout options for men and women. They offer fun, excitement, and so much more. But, why?

It’s Social

As mentioned above, there is nothing wrong with using a gym for exercise, but it’s not a social workout session. Instead, you share a common area with people, but you’re on your own. Group fitness classes such as Sh’Bam, spin cycling, and even boot camp, are entirely social.

You get to meet new people on the same journey as yourself and have a few laughs along the way. What’s more, many people who join group fitness classes say the time passes so much quicker than if they were to exercise alone.

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The Best Exercises to Build Your Core

There is a common misconception that to get that perfectly strong core you need to avoid carbs at all costs and spend every waking moment at the gym. However, that’s not the case. There is an abundance of core building exercises that you can do in the comfort of your home, and help you to build those core muscles fast. What’s more, you can still indulge in the occasional cake…

Building your core muscles is also about more than just looking good, it’s about feeling good as well. Your core muscles are your body’s framework, and they protect your organs, help you to move, and stabilize your entire body.

Add these exercises to your repertoire, and benefit from a stronger core than you’ve ever had before.

Crunch

Crunches target your upper abdominal muscles, and they are a popular addition to many different workout routines. To complete the perfect crunch, you lie on the ground with your hands behind your head, and your knees bent forward. Lift your upper back and shoulders off the ground in a forward motion, while pushing your lower back to the ground. Complete in sets of ten and enjoy the burn as you tone those upper abs.

Side Plank

Similar to a standard plank, a side plank works your oblique muscles and can be held for 30 seconds to a minute, or in 10 seconds lots if you’re new to core-building exercises. Just lie on your side, bend your arm at the elbow, and put it beneath your shoulder. Your hand should be placed on your hip. Make sure your shoulders, head, hips, and ankles are all aligned, and force your body toward the ceiling. You should be balancing on your shoe with your feet crossed over each other.

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Cut Fat Quickly with These Cardio Exercises

Whether you’re trying to fit into a new dress or suit, or you’re looking to make a dramatic lifestyle change, it’s time to begin working out. While all exercises are beneficial for your health and well being, many are designed to cut fat quickly – particularly cardio workouts. We’ve included just a few of the many cardio exercises that can help you lose weight fast.

Elliptical Machine
Whether you choose to purchase an elliptical machine for home use, or you prefer to use one at the gym, you will find it’s an effective weight loss method that puts minimal pressure on your hips and knees. While elliptical machines are not as effective as some of the other cardio machines, they are perfect for those who require low-impact exercises to achieve the same desired results.

At a moderate pace for an hour, you can burn between 400 and 600 calories. However, you can alter your workout by increasing the speed, resistance, and intensity.

Jump Rope

Jump rope is included in many different workout routines for both men and women, and for a very good reason. It’s a low-cost form of cardio exercise and offers a host of benefits. It takes up no room at home, you can do it almost anywhere, and there is the potential to burn as much as 1,000 calories in an hour. What’s more, you also benefit from better coordination and increased strength in your arms and shoulders while you burn fat at the same time.

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