Other Fitness

Auto Added by WPeMatico

The P90X Factor – A Closer Look at Pillar 3: Active Recovery Training (ART)

The P90X Factor – A Closer Look at Pillar 3: Active Recovery Training (ART) What makes the P90X Factor so effective is the way its three pillars function as a complete performance ecosystem. Intensity drives adaptation, movement builds capability, and recovery protects longevity. Together, they create faster results while reducing the risk of breakdown or stagnation. Each pillar serves a precise physiological role within the system and understanding them individually reveals why the program works so well as a whole. Here, we examine Pillar 3 and uncover how recovery becomes a strategic advantage in long-term transformation. Active Recovery Training (ART) is the recovery and longevity engine behind P90X Generation Next. Instead of relying on complete rest, ART uses movement-based recovery, mobility work, and tissue restoration to help you recover faster, reduce soreness, and stay consistent. This pillar ensures you can train hard without burning out or breaking down, supporting long-term performance and injury prevention. The Focus: Recover Faster, Move Better, Train Longer ART is designed to improve recovery, mobility, and readiness, helping participants: Reduce muscle soreness and fatigue Improve flexibility and joint mobility Enhance circulation to speed recovery Reduce stress and nervous system overload Maintain training consistency without burnout Research shows that active recovery improves blood flow, clears metabolic byproducts more efficiently, and restores performance faster than passive rest (Barnett, 2006; Greenwood et al., 2008). The Science: Movement as a Recovery Tool Low-intensity movement has been shown to accelerate recovery, reduce fatigue, and improve readiness for future workouts. Studies indicate that structured recovery helps prevent overtraining and performance decline over time (Meeusen et al., 2013; Dupuy et al., 2018). Mobility and flexibility training also improve range of motion, joint health, and movement quality, supporting long-term physical resilience (Behm and Chaouachi, 2011). Why It Works: Better Recovery Fuels Better Performance ART supports performance by: Increasing circulation to aid muscle repair Reducing neuromuscular tension and stiffness Improving movement quality and posture Supporting nervous system recovery and stress regulation Lowering injury risk and improving training longevity The result: better recovery, fewer setbacks, improved mobility, and stronger long-term consistency. ART Workouts in P90X Generation Next Active Mobility – Improve joint health, movement freedom, and control Active Flexibility – Increase range of motion while maintaining strength Myofascial Release – Reduce tissue tightness, improve circulation, and support recovery These sessions help keep your body fresh, resilient, and ready to perform. The Bottom Line: Recovery Is a Performance Advantage Active Recovery Training allows you to train harder, recover faster, and stay consistent without burnout. By making recovery a strategic part of training, ART helps you move better, feel better, and sustain results long term. This is not time off. This is training for longevity and peak performance. GET THE P90X SUBSCRIPTION The post The P90X Factor – A Closer Look at Pillar 3: Active Recovery Training (ART) appeared first on BODi. What makes the P90X Factor so effective is the way its three pillars function as a complete performance ecosystem. Intensity drives adaptation, movement builds capability, and recovery protects longevity. Together, they create faster results while reducing the risk of breakdown or stagnation. Each pillar serves a precise physiological role within the system and understanding them […] The post The P90X Factor – A Closer Look at Pillar 3: Active Recovery Training (ART) appeared first on BODi. Sam Toh{authorlink}https://www.bodi.com/blog/the-p90x-factor-a-closer-look-at-pillar-3-active-recovery-training-artBODi BODi by Beachbody is a home workout, fitness, and nutrition plan subscription to help you achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

The P90X Factor – A Closer Look at Pillar 3: Active Recovery Training (ART) Read More »

What’s NEW in January 2026 for The BODi Experience Community!

What’s NEW in January 2026 for The BODi Experience Community! Happy New Year, BODi Family! We’re kicking off 2026 with exciting updates, fresh challenges, and BIG rewards to keep you motivated and moving toward your goals. And here’s the secret to success: COMMUNITY. When you surround yourself with like-minded people who share your goals, you’re more likely to stay consistent, push through obstacles, and celebrate every win. Accountability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the key to lasting results. Together, we inspire each other, cheer each other on, and make fitness fun. This year, lean into the power of connection and watch how it transforms your journey! If you are not member of the BODi Experience Community this is your sign to join! JOIN THE BODi EXPERIENCE COMMUNITY DIG IN Test Group – Final Push! If you’re part of the DIG IN Test Group, this is your reminder: You have until January 11 to complete ALL challenges to be eligible for the exclusive DIG IN T-shirt! Need details? Check out the DIG IN Test Group Handbook located on your dashboard for everything you need to know. Let’s finish strong! Introducing the 10 Minute BODi Accountability Group This month’s BIG launch is here: The Room is OPEN! Join the 10 Minute BODi Accountability Group and commit to working out just 10 minutes a day from January 5 – February 4. Complete the community challenge at the end of 30 days and you’ll earn FREE Energize! Why 10 minutes? Because Microdose Fitness is a game-changer. Science shows that just 10 minutes of daily exercise can: Improve longevity Reduce cardiovascular disease risk Lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol Reduce diabetes risk Lower blood pressure Boost energy and improve sleep This is the health & fitness breakthrough you’ve been waiting for—short, effective, and sustainable! Earn Points, Get Rewards Don’t forget: you can earn points by crushing fun fitness challenges and inviting friends to join BODi using your referral link. Points are automatically redeemed each month for discounts on BODi products. You’ll receive an email each month with a promo code based on the number of points you earned in the previous month. This promo code can also be found in The BODi Experience under REWARDS → REDEMPTIONS. It’s a win-win—get fit, bring friends, and save! Head over to the Challenges Tab to join a challenge and start earning points today. Ready to make January your strongest start yet? Jump into the challenges, join the 10 Minute BODi Accountability Group, and let’s make 2026 the year of YOU! Download the APP Download the “Community” app powered by Social Ladder for the best experience and to receive push notifications so you never miss an important Test Group update! The post What’s NEW in January 2026 for The BODi Experience Community! appeared first on BODi. Happy New Year, BODi Family! We’re kicking off 2026 with exciting updates, fresh challenges, and BIG rewards to keep you motivated and moving toward your goals. And here’s the secret to success: COMMUNITY. When you surround yourself with like-minded people who share your goals, you’re more likely to stay consistent, push through obstacles, and celebrate […] The post What’s NEW in January 2026 for The BODi Experience Community! appeared first on BODi. Sam Toh{authorlink}https://www.bodi.com/blog/whats-new-in-january-2026-for-the-bodi-experience-communityBODi BODi by Beachbody is a home workout, fitness, and nutrition plan subscription to help you achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

What’s NEW in January 2026 for The BODi Experience Community! Read More »

Everything You Need to Know About the Official DIG IN Test Group December 2025

Everything You Need to Know About the Official DIG IN Test Group December 2025 Shaun T describes DIG IN as the culmination of his 20 years of experience as a BODi Super Trainer. This new program blends the legacies of DIG DEEPER and INSANITY into a powerful 30-minute strength and low-impact cardio hybrid built to sculpt muscle, burn fat, and unleash your strongest self. DIG IN is available now for all BODi subscribers, and Shaun T is personally putting together the largest Test Group in BODi history in the BODi Experience Community to show us all what this program can do. Are you ready for it? Join us for 30 days of DIG IN starting December 1! Join the DIG IN Test Group – Your Ultimate Fitness Experience Starts December 1! Stop waiting for the New Year to get serious about your health. If you’re ready to start feeling better now, this is your opportunity to make it happen with one of BODi’s most popular trainers to guide you step-by-step and the support of the BODi community to keep you locked in. The DIG IN Test Group kicks off December 1, and trust us—you don’t want to miss this. COMMIT TO DIG IN Step 1: Commit To the Test Group and Earn Points Head over to the Challenges tab on your BODi Experience dashboard, and complete the “COMMIT TO THE OFFICIAL DIG IN TEST GROUP” challenge to lock in your spot, and you’ll earn 100 points right away! By committing to the official test group, you are agreeing to complete all of the workouts in this 30-day program according to the 30-Day DIG IN Workout Calendar, and you are also agreeing to complete weekly challenges to document your 30-day experience and the progress that you make during the Test Group. Check out the DIG IN Test Group Handbook for more information about the weekly challenges and what to expect… And don’t forget: Join the # DIG IN Test Group room for support and encouragement along the way. This is where you’ll connect with your fellow Test Group participants, share your wins, and get the information and motivation you need to keep pushing forward – including updates and guidance from Shaun T himself. The # DIG IN Test Group room is is your hub for all the details. Why This Group is a Game-Changer Direct Access to Shaun T He’s not just the creator—he’s your coach. Shaun T will be dropping in to check your progress, share fire motivation, and keep you pushing harder than ever. Weekly Test Group Challenges Complete all 5 Weekly Test Group Challenges to earn the exclusive DIG IN T-shirt, in addition to points you can redeem for discounts on BODi products. Your Power Community This is where we rise together. Share your wins, your struggles, and your best tips. Every post fuels the energy that keeps us all moving forward. Weekly Test Group Challenges & Due Dates MONDAY 12/1: (300 points) Day 1 Photos, Measurements & Vlog MONDAY 12/8: (400 points) Week 1 Vlog MONDAY 12/15: (600 points) Workout Videos MONDAY 12/22: (800 points) Social Sharing Challenge TUESDAY 12/30: (1,000 points) Day 30 Photos, Measurements & Vlog Final submissions accepted until January 11. The free DIG IN shirts will ship to qualifying participants in mid-February. LEARN MORE Complete all 5 of the Weekly Challenges by January 11 to earn a free limited edition DIG IN T-shirt, while supplies last. This shirt cannot be bought. It can only be earned in this test group. This is your chance to DIG IN, push past limits, and achieve life-changing results before everyone else even wakes up on New Years Day. Commit today and let’s crush this together! The post Everything You Need to Know About the Official DIG IN Test Group December 2025 appeared first on BODi. Shaun T describes DIG IN as the culmination of his 20 years of experience as a BODi Super Trainer. This new program blends the legacies of DIG DEEPER and INSANITY into a powerful 30-minute strength and low-impact cardio hybrid built to sculpt muscle, burn fat, and unleash your strongest self. DIG IN is available now […] The post Everything You Need to Know About the Official DIG IN Test Group December 2025 appeared first on BODi. BODi{authorlink}https://www.bodi.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-official-dig-in-test-group-december-2025BODi BODi by Beachbody is a home workout, fitness, and nutrition plan subscription to help you achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

Everything You Need to Know About the Official DIG IN Test Group December 2025 Read More »

Sweat for a Cause: Join the Love Your BODi 10-Workout Challenge

Sweat for a Cause: Join the Love Your BODi 10-Workout Challenge Because every rep can change a life—including yours. Show Up for Yourself. Show Up for Others. We all know how tough it can be to show up for ourselves—especially when life gets busy or motivation dips. But what if this time, your workouts could do more than help you feel stronger? Starting October 15, we’re inviting you to join the Love Your BODi 10-Workout Challenge: a movement to recommit to your health and raise support for a cause close to our hearts—Save a Warrior, a non-profit organization that provides life-saving support for veterans, first responders, and others facing post-traumatic stress. It’s a powerful way to build momentum in your own journey, inspire those around you, and together, make a real difference. Here’s How It Works Commit to 10 Workouts. Complete any 10 BODi workouts between October 15 and November 16, 2025. Choose your favorite programs or explore something new—every workout counts. Connect & Celebrate Together. Join the free Challenge Room inside the BODi Experience Community to stay motivated, share wins, and take part in a fun points-based community challenge designed to keep the energy high. Make an Impact. For every participant who completes all 10 workouts, BODi will donate $5 to Save a Warrior—up to $25,000 USD. Each sweat session helps you reach your goals and supports those who’ve served our country. Earn the Limited-Edition BODi Badge. When you complete all 10 workouts, you’ll unlock the exclusive “Love Your BODi” limited-edition badge—a symbol of your dedication, strength, and compassion. Wear it proudly on your BODi profile to celebrate your achievement and show your support for a cause that matters. Win Big! Every completed workout earns you an entry into The BODi Workout to Win $10,000 Sweepstakes (up to 30 entries). For details please visit the OFFICIAL RULES. Fuel Your Challenge with Tony Horton’s Power of 4 There’s no better way to kick off your challenge than with something fresh. On October 15, the same day the challenge begins, BODi legend Tony Horton drops his brand-new program—Power of 4—in the BODi Member Library. Whether you choose Power of 4 or any other workout in our library, every session moves you closer to your 10-workout goal. Hear More on The BODi Experience Podcast In the latest episode, BODi CEO and host Carl Daikeler sits down with Tony Horton to talk about Power of 4, how it can help fuel your Challenge workouts, and the powerful impact we can make together supporting Save a Warrior. Listen to the episode here » Why This Challenge Matters The Love Your BODi 10-Workout Challenge isn’t just about fitness milestones; it’s about coming together as a community to support the men and women who’ve risked everything for us. By moving your body and showing up for 10 workouts, you’ll: Build consistency and accountability to kick-start lasting results. Inspire friends, family, and fellow BODi members to join you. Contribute to a collective $25,000 USD donation goal for Save a Warrior. Ready to Sweat for a Cause? Join the Challenge today and let’s make every workout count—for our health, for each other, and for those who’ve served. Join the Challenge Room in the BODi Experience Community Let’s show the power of community and reach our $25,000 USD donation goal—one workout at a time. The post Sweat for a Cause: Join the Love Your BODi 10-Workout Challenge appeared first on BODi. Because every rep can change a life—including yours. Show Up for Yourself. Show Up for Others. We all know how tough it can be to show up for ourselves—especially when life gets busy or motivation dips. But what if this time, your workouts could do more than help you feel stronger? Starting October 15, we’re […] The post Sweat for a Cause: Join the Love Your BODi 10-Workout Challenge appeared first on BODi. Sam Toh{authorlink}https://www.bodi.com/blog/sweat-for-a-cause-join-the-love-your-bodi-10-workout-challengeBODi BODi by Beachbody is a home workout, fitness, and nutrition plan subscription to help you achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

Sweat for a Cause: Join the Love Your BODi 10-Workout Challenge Read More »

How Many Calories Do You Burn While Sleeping?

How Many Calories Do You Burn While Sleeping? Burn calories while you sleep! It sounds like a bogus claim designed to rope you into the latest quick-fix diet program. However, the concept of burning calories while sleeping isn’t sensationalism — it’s science. You do burn calories while sleeping. Quite a few, actually. But before you trade in your yoga mat for a cot, there are a few things you should know. How Many Calories Do You Burn Sleeping? So, just how many calories do you burn sleeping? As with so many questions related to weight loss and metabolism, the answer is: “It depends.” Each of us has a unique basal metabolic rate (BMR), or resting metabolic rate. “Basal metabolic rate is the minimum amount of energy, or calories, expended that is compatible with sustaining life,” says Danielle Gaffen, MS, RDN. “An individual’s BMR reflects the amount of energy used during 24 hours while physically and mentally at rest.” BMR encompasses basic bodily functions, like breathing and blood circulation. It’s determined by factors including weight, height, body composition, age, biological sex, and activity levels. Essentially, BMR is your calorie-burning baseline that accounts for approximately 60 percent of your total energy expenditure, with the remaining 40 percent coming from digesting food, performing everyday activities, and exercising. If you want to know how many calories you burn sleeping, look to your BMR. How Do You Calculate How Many Calories You Burn During Sleep? Calculating how many calories you burn sleeping is a matter of multiplying your BMR by the number of hours you’re asleep. Gaffen explains that the most accurate method for determining your BMR is through direct or indirect calorimetry, a technique that measures the subject’s heat production or gas exchange. Calorimetry, however, requires expensive equipment and is typically difficult to access. In working with her clients, Gaffen uses the Mifflin-St. Jeor equation, which according to one study, typically calculates BMR to within 10 percent of the measured value. The calculations for men and women are as follows: Men: 10 × weight (kg) + 6.25 × height (cm) – 5 × age (y) + 5 Women: 10 × weight (kg) + 6.25 × height (cm) – 5 × age (y) – 161 Want to know how many calories you burn in a full 24 hours? “There are online calculators that you can use to estimate the number of calories your body burns in a day,” Gaffen says. “These calculators take into account your current weight, sex, age, height, and physical activity level.” She recommends Body Weight Planner from National Institutes of Health and Get Your MyPlate Plan, a widget on the USDA’s MyPlate website. Although these calculators exist, a dietitian would be your best and most accurate resource for determining your BMR. Can You Influence How Many Calories You Burn Sleeping? Many of the factors that determine your BMR and, therefore, how many calories you burn sleeping are beyond your control. It’s possible to elicit a minor boost by gaining muscle mass, as one pound of muscle burns more calories than one pound of fat. While muscle is more metabolically active than fat, research suggests that gaining muscle mass likely won’t significantly affect calorie burn. In one study, previously sedentary women who participated in six weeks of resistance training experienced a significant increase in their BMR. Yet, despite the bump, none of the women lost weight or saw a remarkable change in their body composition. If your goal is to burn more calories over the course of a day, your best bet is to focus on what you do when you’re awake. Exercise regularly and strive to be more consistently physically active overall, even when you’re not technically working out. Run errands on foot, take the stairs, or swap a sit-down conference call for a walking meeting. Does Eating Before Sleep Affect Calories Burned at Night? Simply digesting food burns calories, so eating at any time — including bedtime — will cause a temporary boost in energy expenditure. But late-night meals probably won’t bolster (or, for that matter, sabotage) any weight-loss goals. “It appears that what matters most in humans is how much you eat, as opposed to the time you eat,” Gaffen says. An apple contains the same amount of calories, whether you eat it for breakfast or a midnight snack. However, the time of day can impact your behaviors around food. “It is common to mindlessly snack in the evenings when relaxing or watching TV,” Gaffen says. “This habit can lead to consuming more calories, which can lead to weight gain. So if you’re reaching for a snack in the evening, just try to stay mindful of snack choices and portion sizes.” The post How Many Calories Do You Burn While Sleeping? appeared first on BODi. Burn calories while you sleep! It sounds like a bogus claim designed to rope you into the latest quick-fix diet program. However, the concept of burning calories while sleeping isn’t sensationalism — it’s science. You do burn calories while sleeping. Quite a few, actually. But before you trade in your yoga mat for a cot, […] The post How Many Calories Do You Burn While Sleeping? appeared first on BODi. Kayne Toyosato{authorlink}https://www.bodi.com/blog/how-many-calories-do-you-burn-sleepingBODi BODi is a Health Esteem platform to help you embrace the person you are today so you can take action to achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

How Many Calories Do You Burn While Sleeping? Read More »

Does Just Going to Work Burn More Calories Than Hitting the Gym?

Does Just Going to Work Burn More Calories Than Hitting the Gym? If you think slogging half-heartedly to the gym or casually going through the motions of a home routine are enough to torch meaningful calories, you may want to sit down. Actually, stand up. And walk around. Because honestly, you may be burning as many calories doing regular workday activities as you are exercising. Not that going to work can replace working out. But while showing up might be 80 percent of life, it’s only half the battle when it comes to getting results from your workout. Putting time in is important, but just as vital is the effort with which you exercise. Read on for the surprising caloric differences between simple workday activities, casual exercise, and a maximum-effort workout. Duration vs. Intensity When it comes to achieving just about any fitness goal — especially fat loss — workout density and intensity trump workout duration. Simply put, the harder you safely push yourself and the more work you do (and, consequently, less rest you take), the faster and more effective your physical transformation will be. Conversely, simply slogging along won’t do you any favors. You’ll burn more calories standing at your desk and typing or talking on the phone than you will during a light effort on a stationary bike. But while just going to work can burn more calories than going to the gym, it doesn’t have to. For illustration, let’s take a look at how typical gym activities and normal daily actions stack up, using METs, or “Metabolic Equivalents,” which exercise scientists use to estimate energy expenditure. Calories Burned During a Workday† Sleeping (68 calories/hour) Yes, sleeping (1.0 MET). Before you even start your day, you may be setting yourself up for success. Not only do you burn calories while catching z’s, but if you catch enough of them, they have a ripple effect that stretches into your workday. Studies show that people who get more than six hours of sleep a night have higher metabolic rates than people who get fewer. So just go to bed. Walking (259 calories/hour) Considering that the average person walks at a moderate pace and carries at least something (briefcase, backpack, purse, etc.), you can count on 3.8 METs just heading in to work. You should also consider: Cornell University’s Human Factors and Ergonomics Research Group recommends that sitting be interrupted by periodic standing and moving throughout the day, preferably one to two minutes every 20 to 30 minutes. Talking on the phone (89 calories/hour) Assuming you don’t deal with irate customers regularly (which will likely raise your stress to dangerous levels), talking on the phone as much as a CEO per workday (1.3 METs) can burn more calories (178 cal.) than a half hour on a row machine (see below). Typing (89 calories/hour) The simple act of typing kicks up your normal sitting MET (1.0) by a whopping three-tenths. (Hey, it’s something!) Spread that out over a typical workday, and you’ve burned 712 calories. Driving (171 calories/hour) If you have at least a 30-minute drive to work (2.5 METs), you’re burning about 85 calories in each direction. Standing (205 calories/hour) The popularity of standing desks makes the act of standing (typically 3.0 METs in a work environment) combined with typing (1.3 METs) not inconsiderable in terms of burn. Sitting at your desk, head in hands (89 calories/hour) Yep, the universal sign for “workday surrender” is worth enough METs (1.3) to burn a small banana’s worth of calories. Leaving (205 calories/hour) Gathering up your things in preparation to leave the office has 3.0 MET potential. So if you’re the type to really draw out your goodbyes, you could burn more calories than in a yoga class! Calories Burned During Light Exercise† Yoga (171 calories/hour) A hatha yoga routine is 2.5 METs — great for a recovery day. But if you want to maximize calories burned, a vinyasa flow routine (3.3 METs) will net you 225 calories per hour, while an hour of power yoga (4.0 METs) burns 272 calories per hour. By now, you should be starting to see the importance of intensity… Stationary bike (239 calories/hour) Mindlessly peddling a stationary bike (3.5 METs) while watching TMZ on TV is fine if you’re recovering from a hip replacement. Take it up a notch, however, and a moderate-vigorous effort (6.8 METs) expends 464 calories. A spin class (8.5 METs) burns 580 calories, and all-out hard-charging on the stationary bike (14.0 METs) will nuke 955 calories. Calisthenics (191 calories/hour) You get out of exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, and jumping jacks what you put into them. With light effort (2.8 METs), you’ll burn scarcely more calories than you will by driving. But there’s a 287-calorie swing between the lightest and most vigorous (8.0 METs) forms of calisthenic activity, the most intense of which burns 546 calories per hour. Elliptical machine (341 calories/hour) Without figures available in this category for light effort, you can expect to top out around 5.0 METs with moderate exertion/resistance. That’s approximately twice the hourly expenditure of energy needed to drive a car. Rowing machine (327 calories/hour) A moderate rowing effort registers 4.8 METs, but you can reach 12.0 METs with enough vigor. An hour at that level will vaporize 818 calories and qualify you to single-handedly power an oil barge. Treadmill (293 calories/hour) The human hamster wheel clocks in at around 4.3 METs if you exert a brisk level of effort. Stop your car a half-hour walk from work and you can score about the same amount of burn in half the time. Double your normal walking pace and increase the degree of slope three percent, however, and your treadmill output rockets up to 668 calories. Jogging (409 calories/hour) Running roughly 1 mph above walking speed is worth 6.0 METs — not bad. Maintain a nine-minute pace per mile (6.7 mph), though, and you can scorch 716 calories in an hour. Once again, intensity is everything. Resistance training (239 calories/hour) Most modest strength-training efforts only amount to 3.5 METs. Meanwhile, vigorous weightlifting (6.0 METs) will not only make you stronger and more muscular, but it’ll also burn an additional 170 calories

Does Just Going to Work Burn More Calories Than Hitting the Gym? Read More »

Take a Moment to Appreciate the Art of Bodybuilding Poses

Take a Moment to Appreciate the Art of Bodybuilding Poses Thinking about attending — or entering — a bodybuilding show? There’s a lot more to it than random sweating, straining, and standing around looking crazy-fit. You need to know your bodybuilding poses. To the average viewer, everyone on a bodybuilding stage looks like a living statue — lean, muscular, poised — and separating winners from losers in a contest seems like a guessing game. But aficionados of bodybuilding — deemed an “art and sport” by author Charles Gaines in his seminal 1977 book Pumping Iron — know that judges are looking for very specific attributes in each athlete: Broad shoulders Diamond-shaped calves A defined midsection A thick chest A lean, defined look only achievable through stringent dieting They’re also looking for a balance, flow, and proportion among muscle groups, with each part contributing to the appearance of a unified whole. One athlete may have big, defined arms but less impressive legs; another may have big thighs but narrow calves; another may have a big chest and shoulders but also appear thick in the waist. Not, perhaps, the most body-positive pursuit. But at its best, physique contests can be exciting and motivating — a celebration of hard work and the beauty of the human form. One essential component of a typical show is the compulsory bodybuilding poses: five to eight poses that, together, allow the judges to see all attributes of each athlete’s physique. The compulsories enable the judges to evaluate each athlete as thoroughly and fairly as possible. These bodybuilding poses come up repeatedly throughout a show. So if you’re perusing the web for some #fitspiration, attending your first show as a spectator or competitor, or even looking for a way to track your own progress over time, you’ll want to be familiar with the compulsories. Here’s a rundown — along with our completely biased opinion on which bodybuilders through history did each pose the best. 1. Front Double Biceps Pose When you pose for a “fitness” pic, this is the pose you strike: arms outstretched, flexed at the elbows, contracting your biceps for all they’re worth. That’s a front double bi. Some athletes crunch down on their abs when they do this pose, emphasizing the six-pack. Others vacuum their stomachs in to create a more tapered appearance. Either way, the pose emphasizes the contrast between the width of the shoulders and the narrowness of the waist, as well as the size and shape of the upper arms and the definition and size of the quads and calves. Inspiration: Brian Buchanan, Cory Everson 2. Front Lat Spread If you’ve never seen this pose, prepare for a shock: The legs are together, feet turned out to showcase the quads, hands pinching either side of the waist — so far, so good. To perform the pose, the athlete lifts their chest up and out, then spreads the lats — the thick muscles beneath the armpits — to give the torso the appearance of a cobra with its hood flared, preparing to strike. In addition to the lats, this pose highlights the shoulders (they should look wide, developed, and defined) and the size and definition of the quads. This pose isn’t required in most women’s shows. Inspiration: Lee Haney 3. Side Chest Next up, you’ll turn to one side (usually up to the athlete), point your downstage foot to show the calf and grab the wrist of the arm facing the judges. To complete the pose, you push your chest up and out flex the biceps of the downstage arm for all you’re worth. This pose demonstrates an athlete’s thickness — the amount of muscle they carry, particularly in the chest, shoulders, arms, and thighs. It was a favorite of Arnold Schwarzenegger, whose chest was so developed he could reputedly balance a champagne glass on his upper pecs. While many athletes look big from the front, this pose lets the judges see which athlete has the greatest mass. Well-defined athletes also showcase lots of detail in the sides of their waist in this pose. Inspiration: Arnold Schwarzenegger 4. Side Triceps Still turned sideways to the audience, you set up with your legs in the same position as the previous pose, then straighten your downstage arm. Reach your opposite arm behind your back and take hold of your downstage wrist. Finish the pose by flexing your triceps, squeezing your arm against your flank to make it appear bigger, and contracting the muscles on the side of your torso to showcase the definition in your waist and obliques. While the side tri is a good pose for bigger athletes — like the previous pose, it’s a good one for bodybuilders with thick legs — it’s also a good chance for more aesthetic bodybuilders to show their lines, symmetry, and definition. Inspiration: Bob Paris, Alina Popa 5. Back Double Biceps This is the same pose as the front double biceps, only this time with your back to the audience. From the ground up, you contract your hamstrings and calves — pushing through the ball of one foot to show the definition in one calf. Then you raise your arms into the double bi position. The key is to contract all the muscles in the back — from the traps and lats in the upper back to the erector spinae, the two snakelike muscles flanking the spine. This pose takes some finesse: Do it right, and you’ll look wide and defined, with detail popping out all around the upper back like a road map. Do it wrong — by squeezing the shoulder blades together instead of spreading them wide — and you look narrower and less defined. This pose shows off the back — naturally — and also highlights the development of all three heads of the deltoids or shoulder muscles. Since a thick, defined back is difficult to build, the back double biceps pose often separates the show’s top placers from the rest of the competition. Inspiration: Ronnie Coleman, Lenda Murray 6. Rear Lat Spread Like the previous pose, this one is the

Take a Moment to Appreciate the Art of Bodybuilding Poses Read More »

What Is the Most Inspirational Fit Female Physique In Cinema?

What Is the Most Inspirational Fit Female Physique In Cinema? Demi Moore underwent Navy SEALs training for GI Jane. Lupita Nyong’o swam with dumbbells in preparation for Black Panther. Natalie Portman spent 10 months bulking up for Thor: Love and Thunder. But there’s one cinematic transformation that, more than 30 years later, still rules them all. This is our vote: Linda Hamilton as Sara Connor in Terminator 2. Yes, we believe the most memorable and talked-about female fit physique from a movie is Linda Hamilton’s ripped depiction as Sarah Connor in Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991). Her transformation for the role set a new standard for women in action roles. Her portrayal of Sarah Connor showcased a ripped, muscular, and truly fit physique that was both real and inspirational, resonating with audiences and influencing the fitness habits of women across the world. What made her physique in Terminator 2 so memorable? 1. Training and Transformation Hamilton underwent rigorous training to achieve her fit physique, including weightlifting, cardio, and martial arts, under the guidance of personal trainer Anthony Cortes. 2. Cultural Impact Her portrayal of Sarah Connor challenged traditional gender roles in action movies, paving the way for strong and physically powerful female characters. The role became iconic, with Sarah Connor often cited as a benchmark for fitness and strength in cinema for men and women. 3. Visual Impact Hamilton’s appearance was a stark contrast to the typical portrayals of women in films at the time, making it a standout performance. Just seeing her do pull-ups in the film became shockingly emblematic of her fitness and work ethic. Linda Hamilton’s depiction of Sarah Connor remains the defining example of a fit female physique in film, leaving a lasting impression on both the industry and audiences. But maybe we missed one that you would put ahead of Hamilton’s performance? Let us know! TriStar Pictures, Inc. The post What Is the Most Inspirational Fit Female Physique In Cinema? appeared first on BODi. Demi Moore underwent Navy SEALs training for GI Jane. Lupita Nyong’o swam with dumbbells in preparation for Black Panther. Natalie Portman spent 10 months bulking up for Thor: Love and Thunder. But there’s one cinematic transformation that, more than 30 years later, still rules them all. This is our vote: Linda Hamilton as Sara Connor […] The post What Is the Most Inspirational Fit Female Physique In Cinema? appeared first on BODi. BODi{authorlink}https://www.beachbodyondemand.com/blog/fittest-female-physique-moviesBODi BODi is a Health Esteem platform to help you embrace the person you are today so you can take action to achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

What Is the Most Inspirational Fit Female Physique In Cinema? Read More »

What It’s Like to Take a Barre Class

What It’s Like to Take a Barre Class Among the fitness trends I’ve been eager to try, barre class ranked high on the list. The ballet-inspired workout has gained a massive following in recent years, with its main claim to fame being the ability to strengthen and sculpt your muscles to dancer status. The promise of developing dancer-like anything was motivation enough for me to check it out, so I signed up for an introductory barre class to see what all the hype was about. Here’s what I learned, and what you need to know if you want to try a barre workout for yourself. What Is Barre? Barre is a full-body, low-impact workout that combines moves from yoga, Pilates, and ballet. There are several different variations of barre workouts today, but all modern barre classes — such as Xtend Barre — have roots in the Lotte Berk method, says Stephanie Saunders, BODi’s vice president of fitness programming. A traditional barre class incorporates moves designed to both strengthen and stretch your muscles, including your arms, abs, glutes, and legs, while often improving your cardio. You use light weights (one to five pounds) during the arm strengthening portion of the class, but most exercises rely on bodyweight resistance alone. And of course, around the perimeter of the room is a ballet barre, which you lean against or grip as you perform the moves. During my first class, we alternated between compound movements (like sumo squats) and isometric holds combined with micro movements. One of the most difficult moves for me? A version of glute lifts that targeted the hamstrings. Imagine lying on your back with your feet pressed against the bar and your hips lifted, then moving your hips up and down just one inch at a time — for several minutes. To someone watching, these small, controlled movements might look easy, but they’re incredibly challenging. My muscles were on fire and shaking in every hold, and I’d occasionally have to pull out of the moves for a quick break before I could resume my posture. This — the tiny, high-rep movements and subsequent burning and shaking — is the essence of barre workouts. Isometric contraction helps build strength, especially in the core, and muscular endurance, Saunders explains, while also improving your stabilization. Plus, moves like this “can take pressure out of the joints as they are moving through a limited range of motion,” she adds. Is Barre Class Good for Weight Loss? A barre class that incorporates cardio can burn calories and help with weight loss. For example, Xtend Barre is programmed around 30-minute cardio mixes of Pilates and ballet barre workouts that work your entire body while getting your heart rate up. And because barre classes don’t require any heavy lifting or fast movements, they’re a great option for people who want to improve their strength while doing a low-impact, full-body workout. When I first heard about barre workouts, I assumed I wouldn’t be qualified given my poor flexibility and limited experience with ballet (read: one recital when I was five). But you don’t need dance experience to participate. In fact, there’s no barrier to entry in terms of age or fitness level. All it takes is a willingness to sweat and work through the burn. What Do I Wear to Barre? Form-fitting yoga clothes are the easiest and most comfortable to move around in. Plus, the tighter your clothes are, the easier it is for your instructor (or you!) to see your posture and correct it if necessary. As for shoes? Ditch ’em. Most people go barefoot during barre, but if you’re doing barre on a wood floor, you’ll want to snag a pair of grip socks to wear since regular socks will slide too much. How to Get the Most Out of a Barre Class Barre workouts can help tone your muscles, improve your posture and stability, and ramp up your muscular endurance. However, if you’re looking to pack on serious muscle, you’ll need to supplement your barre workouts with weightlifting and other types of strength training. And of course, cultivating other good habits, like getting adequate sleep, eating well, and prioritizing recovery, will play a major role in your overall health and fitness. Final Thoughts My first barre class lived up to the hype. It kicked my butt, worked muscles I forgot I even had, and served as an excellent break from the high-impact runs I typically do. Plus, it was a nice reminder that bigger and faster isn’t always better. I moved through the exercises at a slower, more deliberate pace. The freedom to take my time and be intentional with my movements allowed me to tune into my body and pay close attention to the muscles I was working. The post What It’s Like to Take a Barre Class appeared first on BODi. Among the fitness trends I’ve been eager to try, barre class ranked high on the list. The ballet-inspired workout has gained a massive following in recent years, with its main claim to fame being the ability to strengthen and sculpt your muscles to dancer status. The promise of developing dancer-like anything was motivation enough for me to […] The post What It’s Like to Take a Barre Class appeared first on BODi. Kayne Toyosato{authorlink}https://www.beachbodyondemand.com/blog/barre-classBODi BODi is a Health Esteem platform to help you embrace the person you are today so you can take action to achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

What It’s Like to Take a Barre Class Read More »

Suns Out, Guns Out: The 6 Coolest Outdoor Gyms Around the World

Suns Out, Guns Out: The 6 Coolest Outdoor Gyms Around the World What could be better than a blood-pumping, heart-racing, endorphin-crushing workout? One with a sweet view. Outdoor gyms are becoming a more popular option amongst the active crowd who still wants to get their swole on in the sun. Whether it’s on a white sandy beach, overlooking a mountain range, or simply a stop at the park on your way to work, outdoor gyms can be an affordable, convenient, and social way to get in a daily strength or sweat sesh. Here are six outdoor exercise spots to get active, socialize with your neighbors, and look at pretty sunsets while getting ripped! 1. Muscle Beach (Venice, CA)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Maciej Szopa Photography (@maciej.szopa.photography) on Jun 25, 2019 at 6:49am PDT Right along the famous Venice Boardwalk in California, you’ll find the iconic Muscle Beach, the once home gym of Arnold Schwarzenegger. Here, you’ll find burly dudes and fit femmes working up a steamy sweat at this outdoor weight room that comes complete with plenty of machines and free weights. They often host figure and bikini competitions, and other events like arm wrestling challenges, and don’t forget to check out the Muscle Beach Walk of Fame! Pricing: Day pass is $10, week pass is $50, 1 year membership is $200.Hours: Monday – Saturday: 8 AM – 5 PM, Sunday: 12 PM – 4 PM 2. Tulum Jungle Gym (Tulum, Mexico)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tulum Jungle Gym Pueblo (@tulumjunglegympueblo) Dubbed a “real life Flintstone gym,” this award-winning outdoor gym uses equipment entirely made of wood, bamboo, and stone. With a creative layout set on white sand beach and a beautiful Caribbean Sea backdrop, you’ll love taking one of their specialized classes or building your bis  at this outside gym. Access it through the Ahau Hotel, or stop here as you stroll along the beach. Pricing: Day Pass: $35; Week Pass: $140Open Access Hours:  Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM 3. Academia do Arpoador (Rio De Janeiro, Brazil)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Academia do Arpoador (@academiadoarpoador) This Brazilian outdoor gym is located on the eastern end of Ipanema Beach, which offers incredible views of both the mountains and the city — not to mention the ocean. The equipment is free to use, made from recycled materials, and open to the public. Maintained and managed by local volunteers, Academia do Arpoador is meant to foster a welcoming environment while encouraging an active lifestyle. Pricing: Free!Hours: 24/7 4. VITAL Climbing Gym (Brooklyn, New York)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bouldering & Fitness Gym (@vitalbrooklyn) Providing open-air climbing with a breathtaking view of New York’s skyline, VITAL Climbing Gym is a bouldering sanctuary. Whether you’re a first-time climber or a seasoned chalk junkie, this gym provides all the essentials. Complete with diverse climbing walls, a full weight-training area with cardio machines, and a rooftop sauna for good measure, this gym is a must-see for boulder enthusiasts. Pricing: Day pass: $35; $145 per month for membershipHours: Mon – Thurs: 9 AM – 11 PM, Fri – Sun: 9 AM – 10 PM, 24/7 for members 5. National Fitness Campaign Court (Various Cities)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by National Fitness Campaign (@natfitcampaign) The National Fitness Campaign is on a mission: Bring public fitness access to more than 1,000 cities. Their gorgeous outdoor gym features a “seven movements in seven minutes” program that you can easily follow to work your whole body. The circuit training system is complete with shock-resistant sports flooring, and offers routines that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It’s free, always open, and located in cities across the U.S! Check to see if there’s one near you. Pricing: Free!Hours: 24/7 6. Tiger Muay Thai (Phuket, Thailand) If you’re looking to improve your MMA game, you’ll love this open-air Muay Thai gym in Phuket, Thailand. The gym comes complete with punching bags and plenty of weights to help anyone become fighting fit. It also offers a weight room and classes such as yoga, kickboxing, and Brazilian jiu jitzu to appease athletes of all types. There are several packages based on interests, levels, and budget, so pricing varies; you can even stay at one of their many villas to make it an all-inclusive fitness experience! If you’re in Phuket and want to learn to kick butt like a MMA fighter, check here to find the right package for you. Pricing: Varies. 500 THB [$14 USD] (single class) to 134,500+ [$3,763 USD] THB (VIP training)Hours: Mon – Fri: 6 AM – 7 PM, Sat: 7 AM – 6 PM The post Suns Out, Guns Out: The 6 Coolest Outdoor Gyms Around the World appeared first on BODi. What could be better than a blood-pumping, heart-racing, endorphin-crushing workout? One with a sweet view. Outdoor gyms are becoming a more popular option amongst the active crowd who still wants to get their swole on in the sun. Whether it’s on a white sandy beach, overlooking a mountain range, or simply a stop at the […] The post Suns Out, Guns Out: The 6 Coolest Outdoor Gyms Around the World appeared first on BODi. Chelsea Frank{authorlink}https://www.beachbodyondemand.com/blog/best-outdoor-gymsBODi BODi is a Health Esteem platform to help you embrace the person you are today so you can take action to achieve all your health and fitness goals. https://bodiblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/plugins/bod-blog/assets/vendor/beachbodydigital/wordpress-core-plugins/beachbody.png

Suns Out, Guns Out: The 6 Coolest Outdoor Gyms Around the World Read More »