A kettlebell is a cast iron weight with a handle. Developed in Russia, the original kettlebells weighed approximately 35 pounds, but with the advancing popularity of kettlebell training in the US and abroad, the weights can be found ranging from 5 pounds to 175 pounds each. Used properly, kettlebells provide a great cardio workout and can also build strength and bulk. What is unique about kettlebells as weights is that their center of mass is not fixed. This, and the handle, allow for swinging and releasing movements that are just not possible to do with traditional barbells. Because of the...

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One of the most fun and beneficial ways to stay in shape is aerobic boxing. There are a variety of programs and systems, both on DVD for use at home, and in instructor-led classes at gyms and college campuses. The combination of boxing and aerobics provides the body with wide-ranging health benefits. Boxing affects the entire body with the hand and foot work involved, building muscle and increasing stamina. Aerobic exercise is any activity that allows you to reach and maintain your target heart rate, helping your body use oxygen more efficiently. It also strengthens your heart and aids...

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Great cardio programs have four components.  They are: frequency, intensity, duration and mode.  When you put them to work for you, you will have a ticker that keeps on ticking. First, you need to decide how often you want to work out.  We all have different schedules, and what works for me may not work for you.  You may be able to work out three days a week or maybe even five.  Once you get the days down, you need to determine time.  You want at least 20 minutes to complete a cardio workout. Next, intensity is how hard you...

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We need variety in our fitness regimes.  Stagnant waters grow algae.  Bored pets tear up the house.  I can't afford to have mold or mischief in my muscles.  Variety is the antidote to stagnation and variety. I always have tackled my conditioning plans to mirror that of other sports.  I did the cardio of boxers, speed of corner backs, endurance of a triathlete and so forth.  My plans change at least once every six months.  Why not daily? Rick Bawsel provides daily workouts to supplement the active person or to use for those with little time.  Every day he offers a workout via...

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Let me start by saying, I do not enjoy distance running...at all.  I do love to sprint, though.  However, the Air Force requires me to run, and I am tested on my 1.5 mile run time. Not too long ago (less than a year) I was timed at 11:36 for my fitness test.  A run like that and the other areas of the test scored me a decent score, but I was two minutes away from getting the max points.  I have never been a fan of mediocrity and wanted to get a score of one hundred.  The quest began. Only running...

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