Don’t Fear the Gym, Be Aware of Nuts, Doorway Pec Stretch
Don’t Fear the Gym
It is reported that roughly 50% of people who do not go to the gym are too intimidated to go. Believe it or not, most gym-goers do not care about what others are doing. They are there to get their workout in, and this is it, not to judge others. Everyone has to start somewhere, and if you are unsure where to begin, most gyms offer a complimentary intro session to show you around. Most machines have diagrams; if that is still not enough, consider signing up for a training session to learn how to use them. Invest in yourself and your health!
Doorway Pec Stretch
Rounded shoulders and neck/shoulder discomfort are becoming the norm. Add 2-3 30-second pectoral stretches per day to help reduce the forward pulling from tighter pectoral muscles. Lean through a doorframe or use a wall to pull the arms back, feeling a gentle stretch in the chest. The stretch should be mildly uncomfortable and not painful. Consistency is key to success.
Be Aware of Nuts
All varieties of nuts contain protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are also very calorie-dense, helping to sustain energy. When kept dry, nuts also have a prolonged shelf life and don’t require refrigeration. This sounds like a great snack, but portion size is key: one small handful of nuts is approximately 200 calories, which is equivalent to eating 2 apples. If you are trying to watch what you eat and are counting calories, consider measuring or weighing out portions of nuts as an on-the-go snack, and be sure to work them carefully into your balanced diet.
