Experience Life : Fit Body

The Need for Speed

By Bob Condor — 2008-09-01

Kids have the right idea: They love racing and chasing and seeing just how fast they can go. Here's why adults should pick up the pace, too.

In This Together

By Erin Peterson — 2008-09-01

A health scare convinced Brad and Ivette Heutmaker to change their eating and exercise habits. Now, even their daughter is reaping the rewards of their healthier choices.

The Young and Not-So-Restless: Assessing Your Kid's Activity Level

By Elizabeth Larsen — 2008-09-01

They run, they jump, they play, they compete. That's great. But how well do their real-life activities measure up to recommendations?

Go, Team!

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2008-09-01

Participating in an athletic event as a family - from a fun-run 5K to a full-on Olympic triathlon - can improve your fitness, and your bond with each other.

Performance Yoga

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2008-08-01

Practicing yoga can support your athletic pursuits, and even increase your longevity as an athlete.

Big Goals

By Jen Sinkler — 2008-08-01

Retiring from the game and becoming a mother haven't slowed soccer superstar Julie Foudy, who continues to advocate for women in sports.

What Now?

By Gina DeMillo Wagner — 2008-08-01

Whether you're in your 30s or your 70s, following an age-specific fitness regimen can keep you looking and feeling your very best.

Creak, Crackle, Pop!

By Kelle Walsh — 2008-08-01

What is that sound coming from your joints, and should you be concerned? Find out what's normal, and what you might want to get checked out.

Life, Interrupted

By Erin Peterson — 2008-08-01

A dozen years ago, Jodi Ring suffered two brain aneurysms that could easily have left her dead. Instead, they led her to get on her bike and ride.

Fitter Than You: Three 50-plus Athletes Who Can Kick Your Butt

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2008-08-01

The passing of a few measly decades needn't bring one's fitness pursuits to an untimely end. Indeed, for these three athletes, getting older means getting better.

Solid Gold Champion

By Jen Sinkler — 2008-06-01

Three-time world karate champion Elisa Au blazes trails for future generations and sets the karate world on fire.

Pause for Power

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2008-06-01

Adding a short pause at the end of a tough set can help you overcome plateaus in your resistance-training routine.

Muscle Bound

By Kelle Walsh — 2008-06-01

Bothered by muscle tightness, soreness and strain? A hands-on, biomechanics-based treatment called MAT can soothe discomfort, improve alignment and ward off injury.

Persistence Pays Off

By Erin Peterson — 2008-06-01

At nearly 400 pounds, Denise Morth decided to transform her life. Now she's running marathons.

Stretch and Reach: The Unexaggerated Truth About Stretching

By Kelle Walsh — 2008-06-01

For years we've been told to stretch before activity, after activity and anytime in between. But what is stretching really good for, and when is it really worth our time and effort?

10 Triathlon Mistakes to Avoid

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2008-06-01

You can learn a lot from mistakes - but they don't have to be your own! Here's how you can sidestep common pitfalls of first-time triathletes.

Clear the Bar

By Krista Scott-Dixon — 2008-05-01

The source of many a humiliating grade-school gym memory, the pull-up is actually a great whole-body workout. Here's how to get your chin over the bar - with confidence.

Tendon Trouble

By Bob Condor — 2008-05-01

There are two distinctive tendon injuries: tendinitis and tendinosis. Knowing the difference can help you heal the damage a lot faster.

Lesson Learned

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2008-05-01

John Martin used to eat whatever he wanted. When he was diagnosed with celiac disease, all that changed. And his health changed, too - for the better.

Mind Your Manners!

By Karen Asp — 2008-05-01

You know the type - those annoying people who talk during yoga class and never wipe down the cardio machines. But are you one of them? Maybe it's time to review the basics of health-club etiquette.

In the Fast Lane

By Laine Bergeson — 2008-04-01

At 41, Dara Torres is one of the fastest swimmers in the world - and she's set to become the only female swimmer from the United States to compete in four Olympic Games.

Back on Her Feet

By Erin Peterson — 2008-04-01

After a devastating car accident, Hillary Hopkins was told she'd never walk again. With the help of her trainers, she hopes to prove doctors wrong.

Small Victories

By Elizabeth Larsen — 2008-04-01

Frustrated that your fitness efforts aren't producing more immediate, dramatic results? Tune in and chill out. By savoring and celebrating each small breakthrough, you'll stay motivated for the long haul.

Reap What You Row

By David Lindsay — 2008-04-01

The humble rowing machine can play a powerful role in propelling your cardio fitness.

Back in the Game

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2008-04-01

A muscle strain, joint sprain or contusion suffered just before a competition could put you on the shelf. Here are some quick-fix options.

The Tabata Tune-Up

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2008-03-01

The Tabata Protocol isn't easy, but it can dramatically increase your aerobic and anaerobic capacity in just minutes a month.

Have Body, Will Travel

By Laurel Kallenbach — 2008-03-01

The demands of travel can prove perilous, undermining both good intentions and well-established routines. Here's how you can fight back and win - even when you're moving at supersonic speeds.

A Mighty Mix

By Kermit Pattison — 2008-03-01

Far from diluting an endurance athlete's workout program, adding flexibility, strength and speed components can improve fitness results and supercharge sports performance.

In Search of Stability

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2008-03-01

To deal with stubborn back pain, look to your local lumbar stabilizers for answers.

The Fit Way to Weight Loss

By Gina DeMillo Wagner — 2008-02-01

Tired of yo-yo dieting and endless hours on the treadmill? The secret to real and lasting weight loss is simpler than you think.

Quick-Start Fitness: A Beginner's Guide

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2008-02-01

Feeling adrift in a sea of fitness equipment? Not sure how to best spend your time at the club? Learn the basic components of a balanced workout program, and you'll put confusion behind you for good.

3 Months to Your First 5K

By Dave Kuehls — 2008-02-01

Competitive running doesn't require superhuman athletic ability - just a willingness to train and a realistic plan. Here's how to make it to the finish line for the first time.

Go-To Glutes

By Sarah Tuff — 2008-02-01

Weak glutes can wreak havoc on your back, hips and knees, so building a strong bottom should be a top fitness priority.

Special Event

By Bob Cooper — 2008-02-01

When Micki Gibbs took up running, she just wanted to be part of her sister's wedding. She had no idea she'd inspire her friends to get moving, too.

Clone Test Article

By Dave Kuehls — 2008-02-01

Competitive running doesn't require superhuman athletic ability - just a willingness to train and a realistic plan. Here's how to make it to the finish line for the first time.

High-Performance Vision

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-12-01

Improving your visual skills - and acuity- can give you an edge in virtually any sport. Here's how to start seeing more.

How to Hydrate

By Sarah Tuff — 2007-12-01

Too much? Too little? What to drink and when? Staying hydrated doesn't have to be confusing - especially once you're armed with these slick tips from sports-nutrition experts.

Chart a Course to Fitness

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2007-12-01

Mapping out the peaks and valleys of your workout program will help you achieve better results in less time.

Marathon Woman

By Erin Peterson — 2007-12-01

After years of weight struggles, a newfound love of running helped Terrince Thomas take some important - and rewarding - health strides.

On a Roll

By Gina DeMillo Wagner — 2007-11-01

Using foam rollers can help relieve myofascial pain and increase flexibility. Best of all? They're really easy to use.

Balance Your Blades

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2007-11-01

The scapulae, or shoulder blades, can cause a whole lot of shoulder pain. Are imbalanced blades bothering you?

Moving Forward

By Erin Peterson — 2007-11-01

When a stroke left Jeff Mudgett physically limited and literally speechless, he realized he could give up on his health - or get serious about it.

How Exercise Heals

By Susan Gaines — 2007-11-01

Regular physical activity can help us recover more quickly, heal more easily, and get an edge over all kinds of disease and injury. In fact, exercise may just be nature's best medicine.

On the Comeback Trail

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-11-01

Despite intense preparation and a maximum effort, your competitive season didn't go as planned. How do you recoup and regroup?

Band Practice

By Gina DeMillo Wagner — 2007-10-01

It doesn't take pumping iron or fancy weight machines to get a body of steel. Resistance bands let you do a wide array of safe, effective exercises that making building strength and sinew simple.

Joint Effort

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2007-10-01

Pain in your hips or knee joints may cause you to shy away from exercise, but there are ways to work around (or through) the condition - without sacrificing your fitness.

Masters of the Universe

By Sarah Tuff — 2007-10-01

Wine and cheese aren't the only things that get better with age. Thanks to masters divisions in many sports, older athletes are finding fun new ways to get fit.

The Path To Endurance

By Kathy Summers — 2007-10-01

There's more to building stamina than increasing your time on the treadmill. Find out how your endurance affects your overall health.

New Baby, New Body

By Elizabeth Larsen — 2007-09-01

Having trouble fitting fitness into your new mom life? Here's how to create a fresh routine.

Superdad!

By Erin Peterson — 2007-09-01

When Mike Jasper took charge of his health, his whole family benefited.

Young Buffs

By Hope Hamashige — 2007-09-01

Contrary to conventional wisdom, kids can gain a variety of benefits from strength training.

Motivated to Move

By Susan Gaines — 2007-09-01

How to get kids going, and keep them going, for the love of it.

New Start, Strong Finish

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-09-01

This year's Life Time Fitness Triathlon in Minneapolis saw the world's top professional triathletes and the best U.S. amateurs compete in an event that served as both a wrap-up and kickoff.

Lift Like an Olympian

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2007-08-01

Looking for a time-efficient workout that builds muscle power and functional fitness? Then give Olympic-style weightlifting a try.

Deep Release

By Kelle Walsh — 2007-08-01

Are myofascial problems holding you back? Discover how deep-release techniques can help you work out the kinks and improve your flexibility.

Up for a Challenge

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2007-08-01

A determined goal-setter in his professional life, Tommy Johnson found a way to make his personal fitness a higher priority: He embraced the triathlete's lifestyle.

Tri Around the World

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-08-01

Thanks to its quirky, catchy, semi-addictive personality, triathlon is conquering the globe.

Elastic Energy

By Kermit Pattison — 2007-06-01

With the help of a few plyometric training tools, you can teach your neuromuscular system to unleash impressive speed and strength –the two ingredients behind the explosive power treasured by athletes.

Body Camp

By Kelle Walsh — 2007-06-01

Bring your athletic skills to the next level. Take your body and mind on a learning adventure. Attention campers: Your fitness-immersion experience is about to begin.

Bounce Back

By Gina Demillo Wagner — 2007-06-01

Lower-back pain doesn't have to be devastating to your fitness routine. With the right exercise tactics, you can recover from many aches – and keep future back troubles at bay.

How I Fell in Love With Fitness

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2007-06-01

Meet three people who transformed their bodies and their lives when they found a true passion for fitness.

Home Team Advantage

By Erin Peterson — 2007-06-01

By improving her diet and losing weight, Elizabeth Allen found the energy she needed to keep up with her kids.

Bare Your Sole

By Bob Cooper — 2007-06-01

Grin and bare it - barefoot training can make you faster and lass injury prone.

Spring-Clean Your Routine

By Jen Sinkler — 2007-05-01

Ready to dust offyour fitness commitments and polish up your plans? Here, fresh from Experience Life's how-to files, we've gathered the guidance, inspiration and practical tips you need to do the job right.

In a Slump

By Gina DeMillo Wagner — 2007-05-01

Bad posture doesn't just look bad. It can also compromise your workouts, undermine your health and contribute to injuries. Here's how to straighten up.

Pedal Power

By Kelly James-Enger — 2007-05-01

There are plenty of ways to get a great low-impact workout. But biking is one of the most enjoyable.

Strategic Advantage

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-05-01

Proper pre-race planning and good race strategies can help you get to the finish line faster - and happier.

Back to Basics

By Kermit Pattison — 2007-04-01

Think you know everything about sit-ups, squats and pushups? Well, Russian strength trainer Pavel Tsatsouline thinks you might know just enough to be dangerous.

Making Strides

By Sarah Tuff — 2007-04-01

Discover one of the world's fastest-growing and easiest-to-learn fitness routines: Nordic walking.

The Shoe for You

By Victoria L. Freeman, PhD — 2007-04-01

Your choice of athletic footwear can make or break your fitness game. It can also influence your risks of injury. Here, some tips on finding the right shoe for the job – and for your bod.

Join the Movement

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2007-04-01

More than a hot fitness trend, functional training can help teach your body to move more effectively in specific sports – as well as in everyday activities.

Healthier By a Mile

By Elizabeth Noll — 2007-04-01

In long-distance running, Steve Thompson found a way to stay fit for good.

Just-Right Fitness

By Joe Hart — 2007-03-01

When it comes to exercise, the more, the better . . . right? Not necessarily. Finding your own fitness sweet spot is a balancing act.

Gradual is Good

By Kermit Pattison — 2007-03-01

Are you skipping your warm-up or cool-down? You may be squandering fitness results and making your workouts harder than they have to be.

Office Imbalance

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2007-03-01

Muscle imbalances caused by too much sitting, typing and monitor gazing can set up chronic problems throughout the body. Are work-related imbalances throwing your body out of whack?

Are We Having Fun Yet?

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-03-01

Routines – even healthy ones – have a way of becoming, well, routine. Here's how to put the fun back into your fitness experience.

From Academic to Athlete

By Elizabeth Noll — 2007-03-01

How Erin Dugan broke her cycle of unhealthy dieting, lost 100 pounds and became an athlete - the smart way.

Plan for Success

2007-02-01

Determined to get into better shape? Don't drive yourself to exhaustion: Coach yourself to satisfaction – and real results that last.

A Better Way to Burn Fat

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2007-02-01

If your weight-loss efforts seem stalled or stymied, heart-rate-based interval training may provide just the metabolic boost you need.

Where Fitness Fits In

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-02-01

In the context of other life priorities – such as career and family – sometimes our workout plans have to give a little. But how much, and for how long

A Change for the Better

By Eliza Thomas — 2007-02-01

Meet three people who took on their health and fitness goals - and changed their lives as a result.

Pilates Power

By Sarah Tuff — 2007-02-01

Pilates can lengthen and strengthen muscles, turn your core from weak to sleek, and even rehab old injuries. Here's what you need to know about this popular mind-body method.

An Uphill Climb

By Alyssa Ford — 2007-02-01

One Plano, Texas, family overcame sweat, tears and 19,340 feet to conquer the tallest freestanding mountain in the world.

Competing for a Cause

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2007-02-01

Looking for athletic inspiration that serves a higher purpose and delivers a higher level of satisfaction? Welcome to the world of "philanthrofitness."

Celebrate Your Fitness Success

By Experience Life Staff — 2006-12-01

Before you rush into setting health and fitness goals for the year ahead, stop and appreciate what you've already accomplished.

Loosening Tight Strings

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2006-12-01

Tight hamstrings can limit your freedom of movement and increase your risk of injury. Here's how to loosen 'em up.

Taking It to the Next Level

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2006-12-01

Fitness coaching options for every ambition.

To the Best of Our Ability

By Joseph Hart — 2006-12-01

From wheelchair marathoners and amputee cyclists to powerfully competitive quadriplegic rugby players, physically challenged athletes are teaching the rest of us some valuable lessons about doing what we think can't be done.

Kick & Glide

By Hope Hamashige — 2006-12-01

Cross-country skiing lets you take in the beauty of winter while getting an extraordinary aerobic workout

Vitality for Two

By Elizabeth Noll — 2006-12-01

Committing to fitness helped Randall Pledger restore balance and mobility that Parkinson's disease had taken away - and convinced his wife Corky to come along for the ride.

Mind-Body Synergy

By Kermit Pattison — 2006-11-01

Whether you seek lower blood pressure, a longer silhouette or a more peaceful response to life's pressures, disciplined practices like yoga, tai chi and Pilates offer a host of transformative benefits. Which might explain why mind-body exercise is one of the hottest trends in the fitness industry.

Anatomy of a Potbelly

By Anjula Razdan — 2006-11-01

Lurking under all that unwanted abdominal fat are hidden dangers that can hurt us to the core.

A Balanced Approach

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2006-11-01

Proprioceptive exercise develops better balance and core strength – which leads to improved joint stability, greater athleticism and fewer injuries.

Ready, Set, Go!

By Karen Asp — 2006-11-01

Low on motivation? These tips will get you to – and through – your workout with ease.

Train Your Brain

By Hope Hamashige — 2006-11-01

Mental exercises might not target your muscles, but they can produce dramatic gains in your sports performance.

Every Step Counts

By Elizabeth Noll — 2006-11-01

Marlene Christensen used exercise to stay in shape and put her cancer in remission.

Weight-Loss Rules to Rethink

By Virgil McDill — 2006-10-01

Forget what you've been told. Forget what you think you know. Start breaking the rules, and you might just start making some headway.

Put the Weight Down!

By Krista Scott-Dixon, PhD — 2006-10-01

Go ahead and focus on the negative. with eccentric training, you can achieve some very positive workout results.

Lean Into It

By Kermit Pattison — 2006-10-01

Plagued by chronic running injuries? Perhaps it's time to try ChiRunning, an intuitive style that works with your body and draws from your physical and spiritual center.

Fast Forward

By Sarah Tuff — 2006-10-01

Feeling the need for speed? Yearning to turn on your turbojets? Overspeed training may deliver the velocity you've been missing.

The Mommy Track

By Elizabeth Noll — 2006-10-01

When Michelle Stark made the commitment to get healthy, she started shedding pounds - and the myths of what it means to be a mother.

Fertile Ground

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2006-09-01

If you want a baby, take note: making one may require a more cultivated effort than you thought.

Rock Solid

By Sarah Tuff — 2006-09-01

Convenient and safe, indoor climbing is attracting enthusiasts at all fitness levels. Discover the fundamentals of this engaging sport – and why it's likely to leave your whole body looking and feeling solid as a rock.

LTF Triathlon Report: Try, Tri Again

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2006-09-01

Hunter Kemper claims victory at last in the face of tough competition – and even tougher temperatures.

Weak in the Knees

By Krista Scott-Dixon, PhD — 2006-09-01

If you're an active woman or girl, you may be at greater risk for knee injury than your male counterparts. Learn how to protect one of your body's most valuable joints.

Cardio Crisis

By Anjula Razdan — 2006-09-01

So much for fun and games ... Youth activity is at an all-time low, and the statistics on childhood obesity and cardiovascular-health problems are staggering. Our kids are in trouble. Now, what are we going to do about it?

The Heart of the Matter

By Elizabeth Noll — 2006-09-01

David Waugh's family inspired him to overcome inertia and turn his health around.

Fitness Redefined

By Anjula Razdan — 2006-08-01

A generation of convention busters and iconoclasts, baby boomers are reshaping expectations when it comes to their personal health and fitness, too.

Triathlon Transformations

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2006-08-01

You're making your move toward greater fitness, so why not do it in a big way? Discover why triathlon is proving to be such a popular and worthy fitness goal – even for swim-bike-run beginners.

Swim for Your Life!

By Erin Strout — 2006-08-01

Forget splashing around in fountains of youth. If what you want is a lifetime of health, fitness and vitality, You're better off swimming laps.

Ancient Practice, Modern Medicine

By Kermit Pattison — 2006-08-01

Whether recovering from an injury or making a first foray into fitness, folks of all ages have found that tai chi delivers dramatic results for body, mind and spirit.

Losing to Win

By Elizabeth Noll — 2006-08-01

Carol Grones found the support she needed to work out more effectively and get in shape with a team-based approach to weight loss.

Ageless Vitality

By Eliza Thomas — 2006-08-01

With age comes wisdom. And if you make wise choices, it can also come with robust health and fitness, great energy, and a generous dose of satisfaction. Discover the variables that play the biggest role in determining your vitality for a lifetime - and why it pays to start focusing on them now.

Indoor-Outdoor Fitness

By Kate Larsen — 2006-06-01

Exercise anywhere is a good thing. Exercise everywhere is better. From the reliability and flexibility of in-club workouts to the variety and expanse of outdoor adventures – give your body the best of both worlds and you'll cover all kinds of new fitness ground.

Fitness Testing 1, 2, 3: Be Flexible

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2006-06-01

Think stretching is for sissies? You may be surprised at how essential flexibility training is to your overall fitness condition.

Time to Eat

By Krista Scott-Dixon, PhD — 2006-06-01

Wondering what to eat before and after your workouts? Learn the essentials of fueling for optimal energy, recovery and health.

The Long Haul

By Stephen Regenold — 2006-06-01

Want the ultimate mind-body challenge? Test your mettle and your body's limits at a multiday race.

Out & About

By Laine Bergeson — 2006-06-01

An early-morning wake-up call pushed Mike Spiller out of his hit-or-miss routine - and into the best shape of his life.

Fitness Frontiers

By Karen Asp — 2006-05-01

Evolve your workouts and lay claim to some righteous rewards: more motivation, exhilaration and satisfaction await those who are willing to reach for new fitness limits.

Maximize Your Metabolism

By Victoria Freeman, PhD — 2006-05-01

If you want to take off – and keep off – unwanted pounds, a healthy metabolism is your body's best fat-burning friend. Find out which habits can make or break your body's ability to produce energy from would-be pudge.

Fitness Testing 1, 2, 3: Cardio Capacity

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2006-05-01

Whether your goal is to win a 10K or drop some unwanted pounds, cardio testing can help you streamline your workouts and maximize your results.

Cold Shoulder

By Kermit Pattison — 2006-05-01

The cause of frozen shoulder is a mystery. For millions of Americans, its symptoms are debilitating. Fortunately, the condition can be cured and, in many cases, prevented altogether.

The Fast & Slow of It

By Jen Sinkler — 2006-05-01

Short on speed? Lacking endurance? You may have trained those limitations into your system. With some muscle know-how, you can train 'em out.

Tackling Lupus

By Elizabeth Noll — 2006-05-01

Chemo treatments and broken bones haven't stopped Phil Zerante from chasing his dream of playing college football. Meet a teen who is living proof that passion can sometimes be the best medicine.

Fitness Testing 1, 2, 3: Strength in Numbers

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2006-04-01

Do you know your own strength? Are you making the most of your resistance workout? Find out how to use fitness testing to your advantage – and how to put your muscle to the test.

Your Body, Reframed

By Clara Beacon — 2006-04-01

Your body is changing for the better. But is your brain on board? A cognitive psychologist explains how to be on the lookout for the unconscious "mental frames" that can bring your progress to a halt.

Hot on the Trail

By Dimity McDowell — 2006-04-01

If the thought of pounding the pavement makes you want to head for the hills, trail running may offer profound appeal. Find out why millions of runners are taking to the trails.

Holistic Approach

By Erin Peterson — 2006-04-01

Ready for a healthy change, Kevin Gustafson sought the support he needed. By combining a nutrition plan and exercise program, he got impressive results.

Fit for Success

By Experience Life Staff with reporting by Paul Scott — 2006-03-01

Whether you work for a living or live for your work, managing your physical health and fitness may be more critical to your career than you realized. Find out why the shape you're in can make or break your success.

Fit in a Flash

By Megan McMorris — 2006-03-01

No time? No problem. You can still squeeze in a worthwhile cardio or weightlifting workout on even your busiest days.

Pain in the Neck

By Kermit Pattison — 2006-03-01

A chronic case of "computer neck" can undermine your work and your workouts. So don't sit and suffer. Start getting the kinks out – now.

Business? Adventure!

By Laurel Kallenbach — 2006-03-01

Tired of shortchanging your exercise routine while you're traveling for work? Try blending your business trip with a total-body outdoor experience.

Ready, Set, Race

By Christy DeSmith — 2006-03-01

Is your favorite active pursuit leading you somewhere? Like a starting line, perhaps? Get the beginner's scoop on everything from finding an ideal event to celebrating your first finish.

Good Medicine

By Jacquelyn B. Fletcher — 2006-03-01

Elizabeth Jekot has battled breast cancer as both a doctor and patient. Now, her self-care recovery regimen helps her help others.

Resolutions Workshop 2006

By Elizabeth L. Lane — 2006-02-01

Gearing up to write another mega-list of ways to make yourself better? Don't! Instead, choose what matters most, then chart your course toward real goal mastery.

Active Planning

By Karen Asp — 2006-02-01

The success of your fitness goals depends, in large part, on the soundness of your fitness strategy. You do have a fitness plan, don't you? Here's how to get one, fast – or how to make your current plan even better.

Learning the Easy Way

By Fernando Pages Ruiz, CSCS — 2006-02-01

Working with a personal trainer or an exercise Instructor is a great way to boost your fitness know-how – particularly if you take an active role in your own learning.

Olympic Thrills

By Sarah Tuff — 2006-02-01

You may not make it to the Games in Italy this winter, but there's no reason you can't learn to ski jump, speed skate and even tackle the luge like an Olympian.

Sore Winner

By Kermit Pattison — 2006-02-01

You worked hard - and now you're feeling the hurt. Time to get wise about delayed onset muscle soreness.

Firm Resolve

By Jamie Kuenster — 2006-02-01

It took years, and more than one medical scare, for LaDawn Riggs to move beyond good intentions and yo-yo dieting. But once she did, the results were life changing.

Periodization: The Art of Fitness Timing

By Fernando Pages Ruiz, CSCS — 2005-12-01

Are you going through the motions and settling for so-so results? Maybe you need a master plan - and a mesocycle.

Grant Yourself Immunity

By Elson M. Haas, MD — 2005-12-01

Your body's rapid-response defenses protect you from millions of would-be invaders daily. Here's how you can help your immune system do its job.

A Weighted Lift

By Erin Peterson — 2005-12-01

Personal discipline, combined with professional guidance and encouragement, empowered 57-year-old Chris Braun to lose more than 140 pounds and become a nationally competitive powerlifter.

Life in the Fit Lane

By David Schimke — 2005-12-01

Are you using your body for real - or going through the motions of working out with no practical purpose? Maybe it's time you integrated your fitness pursuits with what you love and who you are.

Power Aging

By Dimity McDowell — 2005-12-01

Who says you can't get better with age? All you need is a little foresight, the right attitude and the will to do the work.

The Big 10

By Experience Life Staff — 2005-12-01

Well, we've done it. We've corralled massive piles of health and fitness information from a variety of leading health books, magazines and Web sites, then squeezed out the most essential bits and massaged them into just 10 basic tips.

Core Values

By Susan Perry — 2005-11-01

From back pain to compromised balance, many problems are associated with weak core muscles. A little more attention to those muscles in the middle.

Silent Sports

By Matthew Solan — 2005-11-01

Listen up: There's a quiet subculture of outdoor enthusiasts who prefer muscle power to motorized recreation – and they're beginning to make some noise.

Carbo-Loading Lessons

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-11-01

Oodles of noodles aren't the only secret to successful pre-race fueling. Here's a closer look at how to maximize your energy supply.

Abs, Simplified

By Bobby Lee — 2005-11-01

There's no shortage of abdominal exercises out there. But not all of them deserve your time. Here are three worth doing – plus expert advice on making them count.

Back on Track

By Jacquelyn B. Fletcher — 2005-11-01

Back pain prevented Jon Skare from enjoying life - until two focused workouts a week restored his vitality.

Master Your Monitor

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2005-10-01

You've got a heart-rate monitor, but do you know how to use it? With a little guidance you can tap into your monitor's full potential – and get closer to reaching your own.

Outsmarting the Ouch

By Karen Asp — 2005-10-01

Sports doctors treat common athletic injuries with top-notch technologies. Today, similar solutions are within reach of the average fitness enthusiast.

Putting Your Fitness to the Test

By Alisa Bauman — 2005-10-01

Nutrition and fitness evaluations abound. But which ones are right for you, and worth your time and money? Find out what some of the top-rated tests can tell you – and what you can do with the results.

Go-To Gear

By Erin Peterson — 2005-10-01

Fitness is about building sweat equity, not about buying more stuff. But a little new gear now and then can make your athletic pursuits more rewarding. Check out 10 products to make your workouts more fun, effective and entertaining - each under $100.

Equipment Upgrade

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-10-01

Sure, it's possible to do a triathlon while wearing tennis sneakers and pedaling a junker bike. But why suffer when there's gear built for speed and performance?

Getting Hip

By Jacquelyn B. Fletcher — 2005-10-01

A prematurely arthritic hip cramped Jennifer Rottenberg's lifestyle. But advancements in hip-replacement surgery meant she got a new joint - and a chance to regain a normal life.

The Parent-Kid Connection

By Dawn J. Grubb — 2005-09-01

Problem: Neither you nor your kid is getting enough exercise. Solution: Get active together.

The Cool of Yoga

By Elizabeth Larsen — 2005-09-01

A growing number of teens are making friends with the yoga mat, for all the same reasons as grownups - and then some.

Fitness For 2

By Sheila Mulrooney Eldred — 2005-09-01

You want to stay fit, and you want your baby to be healthy. Here's what's known (and not yet known) about the potential risks and rewards of staying seriously active - and even competing - while you're expecting.

Heated Competition

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-09-01

As the mercury rose, pros and amateurs sweated toward the finish of the 2005 Life Time Fitness Triathlon. Some wanted glory - others just wanted to survive

The Family That Plays Together

By Jacquelyn B. Fletcher — 2005-09-01

Scott and Jennifer Nelson are staying fit, busting gender stereotypes and raising three active kids. They wouldn't have it any other way.

Overcoming Gym Jitters

By Erin Peterson — 2005-08-01

Don't let intimidation and insecurity keep you from enjoying your in-club workouts.

Feeling Groovy: A Fitness Primer

By Kelly James-Enger — 2005-08-01

Why settle for ho-hum workouts when real inspiration and satisfaction are within reach? Here's what you need to know to make your fitness pursuits more fun – and your results more fabulous.

Mind Your Manners!

By Karen Asp — 2005-08-01

You know the type – those annoying people who talk during yoga class and never wipe down the cardio machines. But are you one of them? Maybe it's time to review the basics of health-club etiquette.

Not Going the Distance

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-08-01

Falling short of the finish line can be frustrating. But the only real defeat lies in failing to learn from your experience.

Building a Better Body Image

By Helen Cordes — 2005-08-01

Neurotic about your body? For your kids' sake, deal with it. The body burdens of parents are easily passed along – and lived out by their children.

The Evolution of Triathlon

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-08-01

What do superathletes, fit kids and the physically challenged have in common? Surprisingly, triathlon. These days there's room in the race for everyone.

Hiking on the Fly

By Hope Hamashige — 2005-08-01

Short on time doesn't have to mean short on distance. Pick up the pace, cover more ground - and get a phenomenal workout.

Turnaround Time

By Jacquelyn B. Fletcher — 2005-08-01

For years, Amy Whittle threw herself into running the family business. But when her health began to suffer as a result, she took charge and applied the same dedicated approach to her life.

Encounters With the Edge

By Alisa Bauman — 2005-06-01

"No pain, no gain" belongs on the dust heap of fitness mottoes. But if you're unwilling to experience even a little discomfort, you're probably leaving a lot of fitness results on the table.

In Good Form

By Joe Henderson — 2005-06-01

If you're gonna run the miles, do your body a favor – Run 'em right.

Get More From the Machine

By Fernando Pages Ruiz, CSCS — 2005-06-01

Think you use cardio machines to their full potential? Learn what your equipment can offer, and watch your results soar.

Smooth Transition

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-06-01

You're fast in the water, explosive on the bike and smooth in your running stride. But a great triathlon finish hinges on your performance in the transition area.

Shape Shifter

By Jacquelyn B. Fletcher — 2005-06-01

How Sandra Carey reclaimed her health and fitness, her career - and her peace of mind.

The A.T. Factor

By Fernando Pages Ruiz, CSCS — 2005-05-01

Whether you want to lose weight or improve performance, knowing your anaerobic threshold can help you achieve optimal results in minimum time.

Find Your Focus

By Karen Asp — 2005-05-01

Zoning out on the treadmill? Fretting while you lift? That lack of focus could be undermining your workouts. Take some advice from the pros on how to tame your wandering mind.

The View From 14,000 Feet

By Dimity McDowell — 2005-05-01

Ready to take your fitness to-do list to new heights? Try climbing a 14,000-foot mountain. If the challenge doesn't hook you, the view will.

Muscle Bound

By Kelle Walsh — 2005-05-01

Bothered by muscle tightness, soreness and strain? Muscle Activation Technique soothes discomfort, improves alignment and helps ward off injury.

So, You Want to Be a Swimmer

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-05-01

Increasing your stroke cycle can make you speedy. But lengthening your stroke may be the most important key to competitive success.

Do & Dine

Angela Pirisi — 2005-04-01

Looking to improve the palatability of your fitness routine? Maybe you need a side of social interaction - and a standing date for dinner.

Spring Back Into Shape

By Fernando Pages Ruiz, CSCS — 2005-04-01

Did winter lay waste to your exercise regimen? Take some tips for a safe, smart return to your fitness routine.

Chemical Reaction

By Matt Fitzgerald — 2005-04-01

Toxic chemicals in your workout environment can invite allergy- or flu-like symptoms that cause your fitness efforts to fizzle. Here's how to identify and avoid potential risks.

So, You Want to Be a Cyclist

By Kara Douglass Thom — 2005-04-01

Road riding is a great outdoor fitness activity. But it requires some cycling savvy - and some basic safety smarts.