Fitness Basics

The word “aerobic” may conjure thoughts of leg warmers, leotards and those intense exercise videos from the eighties, but aerobic exercise is really any activity that gets your heart pumping and burns calories. When done regularly, your body reaps benefits that go far beyond just heart health. And...

How Fit Are You?

You may have heard the U.S. Surgeon General’s recommendation to take at least 10,000 steps a day, which adds up to about five miles. If you were asked today, would you know how many steps you’ve taken? Many people have no idea, but over the course of a typical day—without making an effort to move...

Getting Started

Maybe getting more exercise has been at the top of your to-do list at one time or another—and it’s been sitting there for months (even years) later. That’s not uncommon. Breaking out of a rut or trying to reverse an inactive lifestyle can present some challenging hurdles. Though some roadblocks may...

The latest Articles

Understanding Fitness

Calculating Your Target Heart Rate

Written by 
Canyon Ranch Staff
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
J. Michael (Mike) Siemens, M.S.

Measuring your target heart rate (THR) is a concrete, numbers-don’t-lie way to sneak a peek inside your body to find out what exercise intensity is right for you. Figuring out your target heart rate can give you a clearer sense of how hard you should push yourself to improve your health and fitness.

What's Your Exercise Personality?

Written by 
Canyon Ranch Staff
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
J. Michael (Mike) Siemens, M.S.

Even if a workout is convenient or effective, it’s hard to stick with it if it doesn’t inspire, excite and motivate you. Different things inspire different people. Find exercise that you’ll not only truly enjoy, but stick with.

Inspiring Words on Fitness and Movement

Moving your body with purpose is one of the most important ways you can honor yourself and foster a sense of overall wellbeing. Get motivated to get moving with these wise words.

5 Things You Should Ask Your Trainer

Written by 
Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
Brian Wright

Personal training can empower you to take your fitness to new levels, provide motivation, accountability and a workout plan designed especially for you. Finding the right trainer comes down to a combination of skills, experience and personality.

The Unexpected Benefits of Joining a Gym

Written by 
Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
Brian Wright

If you’ve been hesitant to spend money on a membership but are in a need of a positive change for your body and your mind, consider some of these other—possibly surprising—reasons to join your local gym. Discover so much more than barbells and bodybuilders.

Cardio Machines: Get Your Best Workout

Written by 
Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
Brian Wright

Cardio machines are an easy go-to at the gym, especially if you feel comfortable on a certain piece of equipment. But it’s easy to get stuck in a rut and make a beeline for the same treadmill, elliptical or stair climber. Sound familiar? Be careful not to shortchange your workout.

Fall in Love With Your Workout, Ladies

Written by 
Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
Brian Wright

The right workout should leave you feeling pumped up and energized—not in pain. Read on for how to outwit some common workout mistakes that can sap the joy from your exercise routine and make it needlessly uncomfortable. Get ready to fall in love with your workout.

Guy, Yes, You Can Enjoy Exercise

Written by 
Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
Brian Wright

A ‘no pain no gain’ approach is actually more likely to land you among the quitters than among the healthy and strong. What will keep you coming back for more is striking a balance between what makes you fit and happy.

How to Keep Your Workout Safe

Written by 
Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
Brian Wright

Choosing a gym that is kept clean with well-maintained equipment is a good first step to protecting yourself, and there are plenty of things you can do once you’re there to avoid germs and work out safely.

Your Guide to Gym Equipment

Written by 
Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie
Canyon Ranch Reviewer: 
Jeff Dolgan, M.S., R.C.E.P., C.S.C.S., Burdenko, U.S. Cycling

While it may be tempting to stick with the tools and machines you already know how to use, many of those funny-looking, what-the-heck-is-that gadgets can deliver some powerful body benefits—and they’re not as intimidating as they look.

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