The LIVESTRONG.COM Blog

From the Desk of Jodi Cararas:

We “dare” each other to do a lot of different things on LIVESTRONG.COM, because we feel that everyone is up to the task of making their lives better in some sort of way. Well, we have taken our “Dares” to another level and are hoping to inspire legions of iTunes members to challenge their workout routines with our new Fitness Essentials video podcast.

And, we want you to jump on the fitness bandwagon, too.

LIVESTRONG.COM Fitness Essentials podcast features 3-minute workout videos created specifically for LIVESTRONG.COM on everything from toning abs to squats. Every week, LIVESTRONG.COM publishes a new video covering a variety of fitness topics, including how to do plank exercises, how to improve cardio endurance, a beginner’s guide to running a marathon and building muscle. It’s all to help you get into tip-top shape.

Seriously, what better way to spice up your exercise regimen than with LIVESTRONG.COM’s fitness videos delivered to you each week? Can’t think of any? Me either.  Also, you can watch them on your computer, iPod or iPhone. Signing up is a snap, too.  Oh, did I mention the best part: It’s FREE!

So, what are you waiting for? Get of your keister and visit the LIVESTRONG.COM Fitness Essentials podcast and subscribe, now.

You can thank me later.

Welcome to Olympics month! We all know how difficult it is to motivate yourself to go to the gym, so this month in honor of the Olympics we’ll be featuring a few Olympic-inspired workouts. So far we have covered:

Jump Like a Gymnast: Jumping and Leaping on the Balance Beam

Gymnasts are required to do leaps and jumps on a beam 4.5 feet in the air. While we all don’t have a balance beam, incorporating jumps and leaps into a workouts can increase balance and leg muscle tone. Take a look at how professional gymnasts practice. Watch the video.

While you are at it, learn some exercises that will add a little height to your jumps. Read more on how to increase your vertical jump with our helpful how-to article. Read more »

Get Your Kicks: Tone Legs with Swimming