Dangers of Multitasking During Your Workout

We all have heard the lecture about multitasking while driving - being on your phone, fiddling with the radio - but what about multitasking while working out?  According to a Women's Health article, pedestrian deaths have increased due to this issue.  In some states, you could be fined up to $90 for biking with technology!

I know that you all, like me, probably enjoy listening to your favorite upbeat songs during your workout to keep you focused and alert.  Women's Health outlines some reasons for you to forget the iPod when you workout!

• It can interfere with the quality of your workout.  Many people, including me, blast the music to distract themselves from the pain and discomfort they experience while exercising.  This can be damaging and can even cause injury.  If your ankle begins to bother you, you may not take notice of it right away if you're zoned out to your music, causing the injury to be more serious than it needs to be.
• It makes you block out everything.  How many times have you had your iPod in while someone was trying to get your attention?  It may take them a few times to finally get your attention.  In a more serious scenario, you may not hear a car coming or even an attacker coming.  

Now, if you've ever gone through a workout without music, you know how boring it can be.  Here are some tips to overcome that boredom and tune into your workout even more!

• Focus on your breathing.  Whether you're running, biking, or walking, try matching your inhalations and exhalations with what your feet are doing.  For example, while running, inhale over four footfalls (right, left, right, left) and exhale for the same length. By keeping your mind focused on counting, you can stay occupied without being distracted.  You also will take longer, deeper breaths, which will increase your endurance.
• Do "Fartleks."  I have experienced this type of workout during high school track.  You simply kick up your speed from one landmark to another (i.e. from the mailbox to the tree).  The hard work of sprinting doesn't feel as difficult because the end is in sight, literally.
• Scan your body.  Examine your steps and rhythm to ensure that it is as symmetrical as possible. Begin by focusing on your feet and working up through your calves, knees, hips, shoulders, arms, neck, and head.  
• Play mind games.  Think about car games that you use to pass time on a long car ride.  Implement those same ideas into your run/bike ride.  For example, take a count of the squirrels you see, or keep track of the license plates you see from different states.  By engaging your mind,    you can stay occupied without being distracted.

Stay tuned for more fitness tips!

Chocolate Milk: Friend or Foe?

Anyone who has ever dieted knows that probably the number one food to stay away from is chocolate.  Yes, it is everyone's favorite, but let's face it - it's not helping you keep that fit little body of yours.  If this is the case, then why are we being told to drink chocolate milk after a tough workout?  Seems a little counterproductive, don't you think?

After coming across a few articles on the web, I found that it actually is a healthy choice to consume chocolate milk immediately following a strenuous workout.  Why?  Chocolate milk  has double the carbohydrate and protein content compared to white milk, water, and sports drinks.  This makes chocolate milk perfect for replenishing tired muscles.  The delicious drink packs a nutritional bonus of calcium, including just the right amount of sodium and sugar -- additives that help recovering athletes retain water and regain energy.

But you should think twice before downing a liter of chocolate milk after some physical activity.  You must first assess the level of your workouts.  Chocolate milk isn't for just those who consider a leisurely stroll in the park a tough workout.  It is most useful to the cyclist, swimmer, or long-distance runner. 

So next time you need some recovery after a tough workout, stop by the grocery store for some guilt-free chocolate milk!

Source: http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/healthy-eating/superfoods/chocolate-milk-after-workout/