Posts

Russian twists challenge your core strength, especially your obliques. Image Credit: автор/iStock/GettyImages Russian twists are one of the best ways to work your obliques, the muscles that help rotate your torso. The obliques are often neglected by bodybuilders seeking a tapered torso, women who want a smaller waist and fitness fanatics obsessed with the “8-pack.” Advertisement However, without strong obliques, all the support of the core falls to the abdomen and lower back....

The size of your bike will depend on how tall you are. Image Credit: AleksandarGeorgiev/E+/GettyImages Whether you’re cycling for exercise, transportation or fun, the fit of your bike matters. But don’t worry, bicycle frame sizes are a lot more flexible than your shoe size. An 18-inch frame will fit a range of people with adjustments to the handlebars and seat. Advertisement Since the precise and comfortable fit of a bicycle depends on the brand of the bike and your individual proportions, be prepared to try a bike on for size before you purchase it....

A loose seat can make your ride less than relaxing. Image Credit: VelhoJunior/iStock/Getty Images A bike seat that moves when you ride can mean only one thing – a loose fitting. The fix will depend on the style saddle you have and how the seat moves. A saddle that swivels from left to the right requires a different approach than one that changes tilt. With the right tool, this is an easy fix that you can do in just a few moments....

Combining exercise with diet changes can help fat loss. Image Credit: Luis Alvarez/DigitalVision/GettyImages While it may feel as though it’s the hardest to lose when it’s your problem area, belly fat, also referred to as visceral fat, actually comes off a little faster than subcutaneous fat, which is the deeper fat that surrounds your internal organs. In addition to helping your clothes fit better, losing visceral fat is also better for your health, improving blood sugar and lipid levels....

Burning in the stomach can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Burning in the stomach, also called dyspepsia, is not an uncommon occurrence. FamilyDoctor.org reports that one in four people get dyspepsia at some time in their lives. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve stomach burning in some cases, but persistent or severe burning will require evaluation and treatment by your doctor. Advertisement Symptoms Symptoms of dyspepsia may include gnawing or burning pain, bloating, burping, heartburn, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting....

Pizza dough should be pliable, but not sticky. Image Credit: artwell/iStock/Getty Images Don’t expect your home-baked pizza to come out exactly like a pizzeria pizza. Unless you have a wood-burning stove, chances are your oven just doesn’t get hot enough. However, you can expect a decently browned and crispy crust at home. A pizza dough that isn’t browning was probably improperly prepared or cooked. Try raising the oven temperature as an initial strategy....

A man's legs running on the street during a race. Image Credit: Halfpoint/iStock/Getty Images For competitive runners, small differences in physiology and muscle development can have big effects on the outcome of a race. While a variety of processes helps to determine your running speed, the size and strength of the muscles in your legs are among the most important. Whether you run long distances or sprint competitively, increasing the size of your calves through exercise may help you to run faster....

Protect all exposed skin with moisturizer and sunscreen, even if it's cold or cloudy. Image Credit: Westend61/Westend61/GettyImages Cold weather doesn’t mean you’re doomed to exercise indoors until spring. Whether you run, cycle or hike, there are plenty of ways to get active in the great outdoors in chillier months — though they can take a toll on your skin. Advertisement "Winter weather is cold and dry," Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, tells LIVESTRONG....

It is important to measure your food when looking to lose weight. Image Credit: BRETT STEVENS/Cultura/GettyImages Following a well-rounded meal plan and adopting an exercise program that includes activities you enjoy sets you up for weight loss success. Losing 2 pounds a week is a realistic goal that you can consistently achieve over the long term. Advertisement Tip If you have special dietary needs or have a chronic health condition, ask your physician for guidance on choosing a healthy eating plan....

Chinese diet tea can help induce weight loss, but only for short stints. Chinese diet tea is a concept that covers a multitude of teas on the market that promote a dieting aid for individuals looking to supplement their weight-loss efforts. Although these teas have been promoted for their weight-loss success, many risks can be associated with these teas when used over long periods of time or steeped for too long....

Ground psyllium husk. Image Credit: mady70/iStock/Getty Images Psyllium, a bulk-forming laxative, is a natural element that is rich in soluble fiber. A widely used colon cleanser, psylluim husks are purported to help rid the colon of excess waste that can build up and cause health complications. Little evidence exists to support the benefits of colon cleansing, however. If your doctor has not prescribed colon cleansing as a preparation step before surgery, it is likely unnecessary....

Peanut butter can be useful in a healthy, weight-loss diet. Image Credit: serezniy/iStock/GettyImages Regardless of whether you prefer creamy or crunchy, eating peanut butter can support your weight-loss efforts. This calorically dense spread may seem like a diet buster, but it has satiating qualities that may inhibit weight gain. Advertisement You can even follow a "peanut butter" diet that promotes weight loss and better health, while still enjoying peanut butter every day and keep track using an online calorie counter....

Pineapple is healthy, and as a tea it may help flush water from your body. Image Credit: simarik/iStock/GettyImages Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, pineapple can boost immune function and improve diet quality. Drinking pineapple tea for weight loss won’t necessarily help you get leaner, but it may reduce fluid retention. What matters most is your overall diet. Advertisement Tip Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple, may help reduce edema, or fluid retention....

Stretch your triceps to help relieve arm pain. Image Credit: aylinnn/iStock/GettyImages You worked a little too hard during your last exercise session, and now you have a tight muscle in your armpit. Depending on the severity of the pain, you might be able to relieve the ache with an underarm stretch — but if it’s really bad, you might need to see a doctor for professional guidance. Advertisement Tip Relieve the pain of sore muscles with underarm stretches, such as a kneeling lat stretch or overhead triceps stretch....

A woman is shopping for bikes. Image Credit: Creatas Images/Creatas/Getty Images Kona, based in Ferndale, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is best known for its mountain bikes, though the company also manufactures a small selection of road bikes. Kona provides rough sizing guidelines for its bicycles but emphasizes that a personal fit is vital to your enjoyment of your new bike. The right size bike for you depends on the type of bike, the dimensions of the bicycle and the dimensions of your body....

Give your at-home, upper-body routine a makeover with these challenging shoulder exercises. Image Credit: Drazen_/E+/GettyImages If shoulders are your favorite muscle to train, you’re probably a fan of the tools your gym has to offer. After all, not much can compare to the challenge of the barbell military press or dumbbell lateral raise. But if you’re stuck at home with no access to weights, you can still target your shoulders using your own body weight....

To find the best insulated coffee mug, look for one that's versatile and convenient for your individual lifestyle. Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com Creative Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com Creative How We Chose Best Dishwasher-Safe Best for Cold Beverages Best Spill-Proof Best Sharable Best Stainless Steel Best for Temperature Regulation Best Kid-Friendly Best Budget Consider Before Buying Visit Page https://www.amazon.com This insulated coffee mug from Yeti is compatible with car cup holders, so you can transport your brew without worrying about spills....

The best mattresses for neck and back pain support your body and keep your spine in a neutral position. Image Credit: FreshSplash/E+/GettyImages In This Article How We Choose Best Overall Best on a Budget Best Splurge Best for Side Sleepers Best for Back Sleepers Best Pillow Top Best Foam Best Cooling Best From a Box What to Look For Know Before You Buy Why Back and Neck Pain Disrupt Sleep There's nothing better than a restful night's sleep....

Oat bran is a high-fiber food that can lower cholesterol and provide a number of health benefits. Image Credit: Labylullaby/iStock/GettyImages Most of the fiber in whole grain oats comes from the oat bran. Oat bran provides several health benefits to the cardiovascular and digestive systems, and helps to prevent weight gain. The soluble fiber in oat bran also helps keep blood sugar in check. Advertisement Tip Oat bran is high in soluble fiber, which may help to lower cholesterol, control blood glucose levels and improve digestive health....

Buffalo wings' calories can add up faster than you might expect. Image Credit: rez-art/iStock/GettyImages A uniquely American treat, Buffalo chicken wings are a perennial crowdpleaser. However, between the rich glaze with which they’re prepared, and the traditional blue cheese dipping sauce, Buffalo wings’ calories can add up faster than you might expect. Advertisement What Makes Buffalo Wings Fattening? While chicken can be a helpful ingredient when it comes to adding protein while cutting fat and calories, not all chicken meals are alike....