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IN THIS ISSUE
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Shapely Calves
Eating Disorders (Part I)
Did You Know?
Testimonials
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Shapely Calves
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MrTrainer's Tip
Although the shape of your calves is largely due to genetics, it is possible through hard work to sculpt them into calves to be desired.
The outermost muscle of the calf (gastrocnemius) has an inner and outer head. People often think that turning the feet outward isolates the inner head and turning the feet inward isolates the outer head, however, this train of thought is usually ineffective.
Instead, leave your feet in a natural position. This prevents a great deal of ankle, knee and hip strain. To help isolate the inner head, simply roll up onto the big toe while rising up, and roll up on the little toe to shift the emphasis to the outer head.
In this two part series we'll discuss eating disorders. Although obesity remains a major health problem, the other extremes of anorexia nervosa and bulimia can be devastating, both physically and emotionally.
These two diseases are certainly a child of the twentieth century. It is ironic that in a country with an overabundance of food, these disorders are becoming more common. As models and actresses strive for the perfect body, both men and women set unrealistic goals for themselves, and suffer from terrible misperceptions of their own bodies. Those with eating disorders also tend to come from families with poor coping skills, and in whom self-worth has been related to appearance.
Women account for 90% of those with an eating disorder. Twenty years ago, models weighed 8% less than the average woman; today, they weigh 23% less. This places tremendous pressure on young people to achieve the unrealistic body types of the fantasy-world models and superstars.
In anorexia nervosa, the patient refuses to maintain a body weight at, or above, 85% of normal for age and height. They also have intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat. They may exhibit behaviors such as relentless and excessive physical activity, that is beyond a reasonable training regimen. They may demonstrate preoccupation with food and calories, secretive behaviors, or wear baggy or layered clothing. Women with anorexia develop amenorrhea, or the absence of at least three consecutive menstrual cycles. They may achieve lower peak bone density, placing themselves at high risk for osteoporosis.
Although these patients are often referred to nutritionists, the disorder is primarily psychiatric, and this needs to be the cornerstone to treatment. A multifaceted approach of psychotherapy, counseling, nutrition, and perhaps medication, may help to resolve the disorder.
In the next newsletter, we'll discuss bulimia.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Did You Know?
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Children and Congenital Heart Defects
- Over the past 20 years, the number of children dying from congenital
heart defects has dropped significantly, researchers report. Such
deaths declined by 39 percent from 1979 to 1997, according to statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.
Women and Heart Disease
- If you're a woman, there's a good chance you don't know that you're
more likely to die from heart disease than from any other disorder.
The latest survey shows only 34 percent of women are aware of their
No. 1 killer.
Going Bananas
- The FDA has authorized bananas, as well as many other high-potassium and low-sodium foods, to carry the claim that they may reduce the risk of high-blood pressure and stroke when eaten as part of a healthy diet. Some other great sources of potassium are orange juice, cantaloupe, carrots, and spinach.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Testimonials
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"MrTrainer has put together outstanding videos utilizing core body movements to build a healthier body. I recommend these videos to anyone who cares about their health, how they feel, and how they look." -- Joy Marchiondo, 1999 Ms.Fitness USA Competitor
"Two years ago I was an overweight, out of shape 50 year old woman. And I was depressed about it. I decided to join a health club and use the cardiovascular machines. My weight stayed stubbornly the same. Then I started your program and everything changed. I started working out 2 times a week and overnight I was hooked! The program taught me the proper technique and what NOT to do while exercising. Your knowledge and dedication made all the difference. In 6 months I lost 34 pounds and went from a size 16 to a size 10! My depression is gone and I feel like I can accomplish anything! I am in better shape than when I was 20! Thanks!" -- Laurie C.
"With this program you have a nice plan for us all to learn how to do the workouts correctly-not just once, but over and over. Even after hiring a personal trainer for a few sessions, it is easy to forget and do things the wrong way thereafter. This gives a good map for staying on track. Also-I like the extra benefits on the website for members."
-- Caperton T.