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Posts found under "Strength & Resistance Training" within Ask the Expert

Should I train my abdominals every day? Also, what ab exercises are best?

By Jessica Matthews on Thursday, September 03, 2009


With abs often the center of conversation, it’s time we get to the core of the matter.




What’s the secret to looking cut?

By Jessica Matthews on Tuesday, September 01, 2009


Here it is…what you’ve all been waiting for- the well kept secret to achieving that “buffed” look….




What causes muscle soreness and how is it best relieved?

By Jessica Matthews on Friday, September 04, 2009


You've heard the phrase "feel the burn"...now find out how and why it happens.




When strength training, is it better to use machines or free weights?

By Jessica Matthews on Wednesday, October 07, 2009


Let’s examine the pros and cons of these two popular strength training tools.




Is it safe for children to strength train?

By Jessica Matthews on Wednesday, October 14, 2009


What's fact and what's fiction when it comes to youth strength training? Find out here.




What is the difference between total body strength training routines and split routines?

By Pete McCall on Tuesday, December 15, 2009


Are you wondering how long to follow a total body routine before progressing to split routines? Unsure what type or training is best for you? Find out here.




I've heard a lot about how smith machines are not good to use. Is this valid as far as planes of motion are concerned?

By Pete McCall on Tuesday, December 08, 2009


The effectiveness of smith machines depends on the training goal. If it is a fitness-based goal such as developing muscle hypertrophy (an increase in the size of muscle fibers) for pure aesthetic reasons then the smith machine allows the ability to focus on a specific muscle during a limited range-of-motion, so it can be effective. However, a traditional smith machine does limit movement to one plane of motion...




When is the best time to stretch?

By Cedric Bryant on Tuesday, January 05, 2010


Is it best to stretch before or after exercising? Available research is inconclusive regarding the optimal time to stretch. In addition, strong evidence is lacking with regard to the beneficial effects associated with pre-exercise stretching (e.g., injury prevention or enhanced athletic performance).




How do I get started using kettlebells?

By Pete McCall on Wednesday, January 20, 2010


If you are looking for a challenging, high-intensity workout that can help you burn as many calories as cross-country skiing without the snow and freezing cold then consider adding kettlebells to your training routine.




When strength training, is it better to do more reps with lighter weights or fewer reps with heavier weights?

By Jessica Matthews on Wednesday, February 17, 2010


We know that regular strength training can have many benefits including increasing muscle fiber size and strength as well as increased bone mineral density, but how much weight should we be using and how many repetitions should we be completing in order to maximize our results?




I struggle to perform push-ups. Any tips on how to properly perform this exercise?

By Jessica Matthews on Wednesday, March 10, 2010


From hand position to body alignment, learn tips and variations on how to properly perform push-ups to ensure you are gaining the maximum benefit from this great bodyweight exercise.