Local Trainers On The Fitness Trends

I recently asked two Washington area trainers for their thoughts on fitness trends we might be seeing more of in 2010.

I was really curious about those shape up shoes I'm seeing everywhere--you know the ones with the really thick sole that is supposed to mimic walking on the beach and says it promotes tightening and toning of our lower bodies if you wear them 30 minutes a day. Skechers seems to make the most popular ones although Reebox and some other companies make their own versions. I've heard a lot of women say they are thinking of buying them and they aren't cheap--usually upwards of $100.

I asked Phillip Bergman of Mindbody Fitness www.mindbodyfitness.us to take a look at them and assess whether he thought they would offer the benefits they tout based on his experience as a Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach.

Here's his review:

"The Shape Ups feature a “soft kinetic wedge insert and dynamic rolling bottom to stimulate walking barefoot on a yielding surface such as sand” It is designed for brisk walking (not running). The shoes put you slightly off balance and demand the muscles to activate in order to keep you balanced and centered.

What you get is greater muscle engagement and recruitment from the calves, quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, abdominals and obliques. In addition more stabilizer muscles activate such your adductors, hip flexors, and hip rotators.

Other benefits:

- Promotes weight loss ( but must be combined with a healthful nutrition plan). More muscle recruitment produces greater caloric expenditure. Naturally, if you are more comfortable and experience greater results you will be more motivated to walk further, with more passion and more often.

- Strengthens leg and core muscles.

- Improves cardiovascular health and fitness and thus helps lower risk of heart disease, obesity, stroke, hypertension and diabetes.

- Improves posture because the biomechanics change and require more core strength

- Reduces stress to the ankles, knees and hips.

One note: It is advisable to alternate with your regular walking shoes and to stretch well after walking. I would endorse these shoes for those who want to walk for fitness and weight loss."

I asked another local trainer, Vionna Jones of www.fitindc.com if there are any interesting new fitness classes or techniques she had on her radar for the new year and she told me about Partner Yoga. "The practice of doing yoga with another person is a wonderful demonstration of how to give and receive support, and how to surrender. Standing poses, twists, backbends and hip openers will be explored. All levels are welcome and no experience is necessary. This workshop is not only for couples! Bring a friend or family member. Partner Yoga emphasizes building trust in and sensitivity to relationships while exploring the balance, centeredness, and healing qualities of yoga practice. And you will have lots of fun, too!"

She'll have classes starting in February and you can find the dates and times on her website.

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