Planking: Three reasons why it is the simplest and easiest ways to exercise

If you have splashed out on some expensive sports clothes and shoes, committed to a monthly gym membership and shelled out a small fortune for personalized healthy meal plan, and still don’t see any difference, maybe you need to take a different approach to your fitness.

In many walks of life, simple can often be effective and that is certainly true when it comes to fitness in general, specifically when you consider planking.

Planking is an exercise which looks like it shouldn’t work, but it does and not only that, it’s one of the most effective ways of building core strength, which in turn allow you to be in better shape for other activities. Planking involves holding your body off the ground, usually with your elbows and feet while maintaining a straight line. It may look easy, but it is anything but as anyone who has tried to plank for more than 10 seconds will tell you, but it has many great benefits. Here are just a few.

1. Toning. Planking works your inner muscles in you tummy and strengthens your abdominal muscles. This in turn tightens your tummy.

2. It makes your more flexible. Planking relies on lots of muscles working together all over your body from your legs, through your back to your shoulders. By working all these different parts, you can achieve greater flexibility.

3. Improve your back health. Anyone with a bad back can cut down on those visits to the chiropractor by planking regularly. This is because it is an activity with limited movement so the chance of putting a sudden strain on your back is fairly low.

For more tips on fitness check out the books www.clubsfit.com.

Tips for runners to get the best results in 2019

The first few weeks of the new year usually see the roads and sidewalks become overcrowded with new runners who have decided to take the opportunity of a new year to start doing some exercise. It’s a time for new starts and even if you are already an experienced runner, it can also be a chance to refresh your regime and become a more effective runner by gaining speed.

If you are a keen runner, here are some tips to get the best results in 2019, whether you are competing or running for recreation.

Pace your training

Too much intense training in quick succession can quickly lead to burn out while too much light training won’t allow you to reach the level you want. Alternating between high intensity and lighter work will allow you to steadily improve without running the risk of suffering injuries.

Do some strength training

In order to increase speed, it is necessary to get more strength in your legs and arms. Don’t overdo it as you don’t want too much bulk to haul around. Doing some light weight and core work in the gym can help build strength.

Put together a training calendar

If you are running in races and training a few times a week, it’s a good idea to take time to put together a training calendar so as you can peak at the right times and give yourself enough opportunity for recovery.

Get enough sleep

It is essential for anyone hoping to increase their running performance to get the right amount of good quality sleep to allow their bodies to recover.

For more tips and ideas for fitness check out the books at www.clubsfit.com.