Sweat Together: 7 Partner Exercises Made for Cuffing Season

‘Tis the season for “cuffing.” You know, that time of the year when the cold air and falling leaves send us running in the comforting (and warm) arms of another. If you’re still a bit perplexed as to what I’m talking about, don’t worry, I’ll let one of the Millennial’s over at UrbanDictionary spell it out for you in plain English:

“During the Fall and Winter months people who would normally rather be single find themselves along with the rest of the world desiring to be "Cuffed" or tied down by a serious relationship. The cold weather and prolonged indoor activity causes singles to become lonely and desperate to be cuffed.”

Now that you have an understanding of that sudden, overwhelming desire to find the PB to your J, you’re probably wondering why I’m rambling on about matters of the heart on a health and fitness blog. Well, my friends, cuffing season is the perfect time to mix-up your workout routine. I’ve already shared the benefits of including a variety of exercise positions into your routine, but asking your partner to join you on a Saturday morning run or gym shred session is another simple way to add some spice to a stagnant fitness regimen.

According to researchers at the University of Aberdeen, having an exercise partner boasts great results, since the presence of a gym buddy increases the amount of exercises we do. In addition to the boost of motivation and emotional support that you get from working out with “bae,”—another term that we have Millennial’s to thank for—being cuffed this season allows you to experience a new array of exercise positions.

So, this fall/winter say goodbye to that solo fitness routine and hit the gym with your partner for some challenging, imaginative and fun workouts. I may not be able to help you hone your cuffing season skills (sorry), but I can definitely provide you with a few exercise ideas for couples. Keep reading to learn how you and your cuffing partner can be the fittest couple at this year’s office holiday party.

The Secret to Perfecting the Weight-Loss Smoothie

The thicker the shake, the thinner your waistline. That at least seems like a good bet given new data showing that a drink thickened with fiber makes you feel fuller. In fact, participants in the study, which appears in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, reported feeling fuller after drinking a thick shake with only 100 calories than after drinking a thin shake with five times as many calories. 

Slow it Down, Child: Exercise like a Human, Not a Robot

When I sat down at my computer to write this post, I had a million ideas bouncing around in my head, but none of them stuck. For some reason, preaching to you about the health benefits of quinoa or the latest trend to take the fitness community by storm seemed a bit redundant. Although I usually find those sorts of topics electrifying, today, I wanted to do something a bit out of the ordinary. I wanted to talk about something different.

Mix it up: How Adding Variety Into Your Exercise Routine Can Get You Results

If you think back to your last few workout sessions, did you perform the same exercises over and over again? Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s time to switch up your routine.

6 Ways to Prevent Sports Injuries

Ask any athlete what their worst fear is, and they’ll probably say getting a debilitating injury. It’s absolutely devastating to be sidelined for an inordinate amount of time due to a sprained ankle or torn ACL. Since it’s common knowledge that playing sports is hard on the body, a smart athlete makes sure to take great care of his/her body. Having love for the game, whatever it may be, is not enough; you need to have love for your body too.

While it is impossible to avoid experiencing harm while playing sports, research suggests that injury rates could be reduced by 25% if athletes took appropriate preventative action. No matter what sport your play, here are 6 general rules to follow for injury prevention:

Ditch the Delivery: A Healthy (and delicious) Pizza Recipe That You’ll Love

Superman has kryptonite and humans have pizza. A cheesy, garnished to perfection, oven roasted pie is a delicacy that no one on Earth can resist—even personal trainers. As magnificent as this classic Italian dish is, it’s often not the healthiest of meals to consume. Yes, it’s true that pizza contains all the ingredients for a nutritious and well-balanced meal—dairy, protein, grains, and vegetables—however, the pizza that we’re eating is usually the high fat, high calorie, and high sodium kind from the neighbourhood fast-food joint or frozen food aisle at the grocer's. That greasy slice may look simply irresistible, but it’s doing damage to your body.

The Best Exercises for a Super-Sculpted Butt

When I start working with a new client, I ask them what their fitness goals are so that I can get them the results they desire. The vast majority of the time I hear, “I want a toned butt.” Getting a booty that rivals Beyonce, Kim Kardashian, or J. Lo is at the top of my clients’ wish list, but aside from doing squat challenge after squat challenge, most are unaware of the other highly effective tush toning exercises. If you’re like my clients, it’s time to put the squats to rest and add some variety to your fitness routine with 8 booty-blasting moves. These exercises are easy to learn, target important muscles in your glutes and hamstrings, and, most importantly, will give you a firmer bum in no time.

Less is More: Cut Back on Salt with a Low Sodium Diet

We live in an age of convenience. Almost anything your heart desires can be obtained at the drop of a hat, whether it’s the latest bop from Beyoncé or a last minute anniversary gift for your wife. On the surface, instant gratification may seem completely wondrous, but if we grab our magnifying glass and do a little sleuthing, it’s quite clear that getting what you want, when you want it, can sometimes be detrimental to our wellbeing.  

4 Easy Yoga Poses for Pain Relief

Most people decide to unleash their inner yogi because they want that perfectly sculpted yoga body; however, the benefits of yoga extend far beyond washboard abs and tight glues. Several research studies have found that yoga is an effective (and natural) way to treat chronic conditions such as, back pain, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis and carpal tunnel syndrome. If you’re experiencing an achy body, the thought of twisting and contorting it into a series of poses and stretches may be fear inducing, but when performed correctly, the fluidity of yoga movements can increase mobility and strength without the wear and tear on your already painful joints, says yoga instructor Cynthia Maltenfort. “Yoga is a safe alternative to weight-bearing exercises that could worsen weak joints because it strengths the muscles around them, which reduces tension and increases mobility,” explains Maltenfort.

So, whether you’re suffering from moderate to severe pain, relief may be a yoga pose away. Here a few of my favourite yoga positions to ease body aches and help you get back to enjoying life to the fullest.

5 Fitness Trends to Give Your Workout a Boost

So, you’ve been working out diligently, hopped onto the #cleaneating bandwagon and have seen great results, but, sadly, you’re not quite at your fitness goal just yet. With summer only a few weeks away, now is not the time to panic; rather it’s time to get serious about trying to shed those last couple of pounds. Before you go into the back of the closet and exhume your Shake Weight or Brazilian Butt Lift DVD, kick your exercise regimen into high gear by trying one (or all) of my favourite fitness trends for 2016.

Detox Diets: Considering the Pros and Cons

Whether it’s Kourtney Kardashian, your boss or that kale-munching hipster at the health food store, it seems like everyone is on some sort of detox diet these days. Due to their immense popularity and the icky bloated feeling that you’re experiencing as we speak, you are probably thinking about joining the detox party. Although promises of losing 10 lbs. in 10 days, a purified body and radiant skin are very appealing, it’s important to do your research and consider how a detox diet can benefit your mind, body and soul. Lucky for you, I’m here to help! I have put together some pros and cons of detoxing to aid you in making an educated decision regarding whether a detox is the right decision for you.

Why You Need an In-Home Fitness Equipment Evaluation

Statistics show that 75% of the people who sign-up for a gym membership only use it for the first month. Instead of “donating” ones hard earned money to a gym, investing in some quality at-home fitness equipment might be a more cost-effective way to get fit in the long run. Purchasing a few dumbbells, a stability ball to blast those glutes, or a treadmill for your private fitness club can help you get a total body workout without those pesky contracts and membership fees.

At-Home Workouts or Personal Training: Which is More Beneficial?

Q: What is the difference between doing a fitness program on my own and with a personal trainer?

A: There is a HUGE difference between the two! Now, if you are a professional bodybuilder, fitness model, or obsessed gym freak this question does not apply to you. However, if you're the average person looking to get in shape, it's a lot of hard work. Here are the two main factors that suffer when training alone: 

Total Body Fitness Group Class Pics

Hard work pays off!

Total Body Fitness is Voted Number One

Thank you for voting for us  & making Total Body Fitness number one!

Getting Fit At Total Body Fitness

Another before and after success pic from TBFitness group classes.

Total Body Fitness Promo On Small Group Personal Training

Total Body Fitness provides small Group Personal Training as a cost-effective way for clients to experience the benefits and results of working with an advanced fitness professional. The classes are fun, creative, motivating, challenging and organized. The groups range from 3 to 5 participants which allows our trainer to correct and monitor clients when moving through their stations. We have designed programs using light weights for lean and toned muscles. We also have 45 minute and 1 hour action packed classes ranging from $25 to $30.

The best part about our fitness program is that it accommodates people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're a beginner, athlete or baby boomer, you'll have fun while getting fit in one of our group fitness sessions. 
or just a group of friends.

So what are you waiting for? Join one of our Group Personal Training sessions--you will not be disappointed!

IAN King FROM TOTAL BODY FITNESS SOCCER FITNESS BIO

Ian King is a certified, insured trainer with extensive experience in sports specific training and soccer conditioning. Having worked one on one with elite athletes as well as several highly competitive teams, he has been voted as Brampton’s top fitness professional.  Ian’s qualifications include:

Certified Personal Trainer
Certified Sports Injury Specialist
Certified Sports Conditioning Instructor
Speed, Agility and Quickness Specialist
Fitness and Conditioning for Soccer Trainer

Ian is an athlete himself, competing and participating in many sports however his biggest passion is for soccer. He started playing when he was 5 and into a more competitive level into adulthood.  Ian has  played at the CPSL level and understands the game from an advanced perspective.  He has trained and worked with athletes of all ages and can adapt the training program to suit various ages and fitness levels. Ian’s high level fitness training has prepared his athletes for scholarships and international opportunities.

• Some of the teams that Ian has worked with are:
  
  2007-2009 Mississauga Falcons Girls Soccer (Champions of: Falcon Cup and 2008 South Region Soccer League Cup)
  2008 Kalamata Greece Mens Soccer
  2010 Burlington Tornados Girls Soccer 
  2011 Greece Panathinaikos Kalamata Semi Pro Mens Soccer
  2011-2012 Etobicoke Energy Girls Soccer (Champions of: Hangar Downsview Park March Break Tournament, Hershey Centre 11 v 11 Indoor League, Henderson Cup London,  OSA 2012 Indoor Ontario Cup, Hershey GU18 11V11 Indoor League)

The New Total Body Fitness Sports Specific Training Sports Turf Yard

Introducing the NEW Total Body Fitness Sports Turf Yard!  Over 1000 sq ft of artificial turf area in the private yard situated behind the award winning Total Body Fitness studio.  Have the benefit of all the amenities of the studio nearby while training like the pros on Brampton’s only private training sports turf.  Sports conditioning/ plyometrics training on a one on one basis or small group setting, will help take your athletic performance to the next level.  Training on artificial turf will simulate the actual playing conditions for soccer and football players thus providing an extra advantage to the custom training programs offered.  But the yard is not just for sports players.  We offer outdoor small group fitness classes as well as private fitness training.  What an inspiring way to exercise!

For more info, please contact the studio at  905-463-2013.  We would be happy to tell you all about it.

Who is Total Body Fitness & Wellness?

Total Body Fitness & Wellness Studio

Total Body Fitness & Wellness is a private personal studio located in the heart of downtown Brampton. We offer a variety of services ranging from customized workout programs for individuals to group training for sports teams. 

In 2009, Total Body Fitness and Wellness was recipeint of  the “Brampton Outstanding Business Achievement Award”.  We are very proud of this award as it was presented as recognition of the hard work, dedication and effort that is put in every day to make Total Body Fitness rise above its competition. 

Head to our website to learn about how we can help you lead a better quality life. Before you sign up for your first fitness session, get to know us with a private tour of our studio. 

Meet Our Trainer 

Ian King is a certified, insured personal trainer with over 15 years of experience in the fitness industry. Ian King's fitness qualifications include: 

• Certified Fitness & Conditioning Soccer Trainer
• Certified Personal Trainer
• Certified Speed, Agility and Quickness Trainer
• Certified Sports Injury Specialist 

Not only is Ian incredibly knowledgable about the latest fitness techniques and tools used, but he is deeply passionate about the industry. As an athlete himself, Ian has spent his entire life competing and participating in a multitude of sports at competitive levels. Although Ian has a genuine love for sports, soccer is his main area of focus. Over the years he has gained an advanced perspective of the game through his experiences playing at the CPSL level, training local athletes, and working with soccer players internationally (e.g., Kalamata Soccer Team in Kalamata, Greece). Some of the soccer associations Ian has worked with are:

• 2007 Mississauga Falcons U11 Girls Soccer
• 2008 Greece Mens Soccer
• 2009 Brampton Rockets U14 Boys Hockey
• 2010 Burlington Tornados U14 Girls Soccer
• 2011 Etobicoke Energy U15 Girls Soccer
• 2011 Greece Panathinaikos Kalamata Semi Pro Mens Soccer
• 2012 Etobicoke Energy U16 Girls Soccer

Our trainer's extensive background in sports specific training and soccer conditioning, coupled with a history of working with elite athletes and competitive teams has led him to be voted as Brampton's top fitness professional. Ian's high level fitness training has aided cancer patients in the fight against the disease, prepared athletes for scholarships and international opportunities, and helped many achieve a better quality life. We can't wait to see what Ian can do for you!

Soccer Specific Training at Total Body Fitness 

Total Body Fitness & Wellness Sports Turf Yard

Total Body Fitness' soccer specific training program will help players reach their optimum  fitness potential, which will directly relate to noticeable improvement on the pitch. Before and after fitness testing we'll show all the areas of improvement each player has made over the course of the recommended training program. 

Our training program is divided into four stages: 

1. The Off-Season - To Build Functional Strength

The goals of this phase are to prepare the joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons for more intense work in subsequent phases. Furthermore, we'll also work to strength the athletes underused stabilizer muscles, balance the right and left side of the body, and redress the balance between the flexors and extensors.  

2. Off-Season/Early Pre-Season - To Build Maximal Strength 

The goal of this phase is to develop the highest force possible. Since power is our overall outcome, it makes sense to develop strength first and then convert it into soccer-specific power. The aim is to complete this phase before the start of the season. That way the latter stages of pre-season training can focus on power and strength endurance training. 

3. Late Pre-Season - For Muscular Power and Strength Endurance

In this phase of soccer strength training, the goal is to convert strength gains into soccer-specific power and muscular endurance through the use of plyometrics.
Soccer is one of the few sports that demands roughly equal amounts of explosive force and strength endurance. 

4. In-Season - For Maintenance

During the in-season, the goal is to maintain the gains  made during a strenuous preseason period without over reaching or over training.  

We look forward to working with you so that you can achieve “MAXIMUM RESULTS in MINIMUM TIME!” 

Total Body Fitness & Wellness Studio