National Physical Activity and Sports Month

May is National Physical Activity and Sports Month. We know that staying active is an important continuum throughout our lives for our physical and mental well-being. Children Adhering to 60 minutes of vigorous activity a day benefits their growing bodies and leads to a lifetime of movement. A body in motion stays in motion. Visit […]

2 people stretching in a gym

Understanding the Role of Stretching

Do you stretch on a regular basis? Stretching is often an overlooked component of our physical activity routines. Stretching prepares our muscles for movement, aids in muscle recovery, releases tension, and improves flexibility, all of which promote proper movement patterns. Performing stretches on a regular basis, even if not before or after physical activity, is […]

Hot Weather Alert

Over the July 4th holiday weekend, residents across North Carolina and the country experienced record-breaking heat. I spent the weekend slathered in sunscreen, playing pickleball, and then cooling down in my community pool. When the summer temperatures reach the 90s, I like to keep some frozen bandanas in my freezer to put on when I […]

A turtle crossing the path

2023 NC Year of the Trail

Did you know that North Carolina is the Great Trails State and that 2023 is the NC Year of the Trail? The “NC Year of the Trail” is the largest statewide celebration of the vast network of trails, greenways, and blueways that showcase the state’s diverse landscapes. Goals for NC Year of the Trail: I’ve […]

Potatoes on a toy couch

Are You An Active Couch Potato?

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity per week. For some of us, that means hitting the gym for 30 minutes a day to “knock it out” before work or maybe going on a moderate-intensity walk. Although doing this might check […]

Essentrics® Dynamic Stretch Workout – A Game Changer for Me!

As I entered my late 40’s, I occasionally developed painful “knots” in my shoulder muscles. To alleviate the discomfort, I tried massage, foam rollers, exercise ball stretches, yoga, and age-targeted stretching exercises. The knots and accompanying pain would improve for a while but then return.  To be honest, stretching has always been challenging for me, […]

Three women holding yoga mats

5 Tips for Choosing a Workout Buddy

We are social beings.  If covid lockdowns taught us anything, they taught us that we as humans are designed to interact with others.  And researchers say that exercising with other active people can help motivate us to be active ourselves.  Being active with friends also helps make exercise more enjoyable and holds us accountable to […]

Jumping Into At-Home Workouts

At-home workouts became a staple when gyms and fitness studios closed during the start of the pandemic. Even as those spaces have re-opened, at-home workouts remain a convenient and budget-friendly way to incorporate movement into your day. Whether at-home workouts are in your routine or not, they are a great option during the holiday season […]

7 Tips to Stay Active When it is Cold and Dark

The weather is getting colder and the days are getting darker. It is possible (and even enjoyable) to be outside in the colder weather. It just takes a bit more effort. Here are 7 tips I have used to stay active in the colder, darker months of the year. Outdoor Activities Indoor Activities You might […]