End of the school year for SBSM fitness centers

This Thursday is the last day that all SBSM fitness centers will be open. Please remember to complete the Exit Survey that we sent to your e-mail address. Thank you so much for being loyal members of SBSM fitness centers and we hope to serve you again in next school year!

The common cold vs the flu

Both the common cold and the flu are caused by viral infections of the respiratory tract, such as the throat, nose, and airways and lungs (familydoctor.org, 2010). Then, what is the difference between the common cold and the flu?
According to familydoctor.org, the symptoms of the common cold appear slowly whereas the symptoms of the flu usually appear very suddenly. Also, the symptoms for the common cold are generally milder than the symptoms for the flu. Below is the list of symptoms for the cold and the flu:
( http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/colds-and-the-flu.printerview.all.html)
The symptoms of a cold can include

• Fever up to 102°F
• Runny or stuffy nose (often with green- or yellow-colored discharge)
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Watery eyes

 Flu symptoms can include

• Fever over 102°F
• Stuffy nose
• Nausea
• Chills and sweats
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches, especially in your back, arms and legs
• Cough
• Headache
• Loss of appetite                            

Vitamin C...the nuts and bolts

Vitamin C has been known to help people recover from cold faster; researches show that this is not true. However, people who take vitamin C regularly may have higher chance of having shorter or milder cold than those who do not. Also, because we do not make vitamin C in our body and it is used in our body for repair and growth, it is imperative for us to consume it in adequate amount. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, nutrients that may minimize the damage of free radicals created in our bodies. Food sources rich in vitamin C are broccoli, cantaloupe, citric fruits (lemon, oranges, grapefruit), sweet potatoes, and green & red peppers.

Zieve & Eltz, 2011. Retrieved from  http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002404.htm

CrossFit exercises...find what works for you!

CrossFit exercises are most known for its high intensity. As a woman and a personal trainer, I like to modify some of these exercises to fit into my workout routine. I don't like using these exercises at their face value because CrossFit exercises do account for a high injury rate, especially if they are not done right, and require all-out-intensity through the whole workout, which makes it not fit for everyone. However, this does not mean that they cannot be done. CrossFit exercises are often used by government police forces, armed forces, and other athletes because the exercises seek to prepare the participants to face anything and everything that is thrown at them. In this way, I admire people who are CrossFitter. For more information, visit www.crossfit.com!

Reminder: why exercise?

I know many of you know the benefits of regularly exercising. However, because exercising is very important, it bears to mentions some of its benefits once again.
1. Weight management
2. Prevents and manages a host of health problems, such as stroke, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and Alzheimer's disease
3. Improves mood
4. Boosts energy
5. Better sleep
6. Fun
7. Improves bodily function, such as flexibility
8. Better social life
9. Enhances performance in all things
This list includes broad topics that encompass many other subtopics, so do your research and get ready to be impressed by what exercise would do for you!

Explore the local trails during summer!

Summer is the perfect time for people to enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm weather, especially in Colorado. Also, this is the time when people can become more active through exploring the outside world. Why not make visiting and walking/running/riding on the local trail a part of this exciting summer time? For people who dwell near the Metro Denver, I'd like to recommend the Cherry Creek Trail that starts at Confluence Park near Speer Blvd and I-25 and ends at near Cherry Creek Park. The trail consists of 18.6 miles of concrete trail and has many parks along the way for resting or ending the trail exploration. This trail would be especially appropriate for people who want to explore the parks near the Metro Denver area!

May is Exercise is Medicine month!

May is Exercise is Medicine month. Exercise is Medicine is an initiative managed by ACSM to promote physical activity in order to improve overall health. To celebrate the month of this awesome initiative, take one of the steps below:

1. If you are a patient, ask your doctor a few questions about your health, such as am I at a healthy weight or what exercises would be good for me?

2. If you are a parent, become a role model for your child by helping them to develop a habit of lifelong physical activity. Engage in a fun activity with your family and enjoy!

3. If you are a health care professional, talk to your patients or clients about exercise and wellness.