Equine massages target large muscle groups of the horse for loosening and relaxation. Learn about the benefits of equine massages with tips from a horse expert in this free pet care video. Learn equine massage techniques - Part 1 of 16.
The push-up is one of the most recognizable upper body exercises. Push-ups are generally done to work the chest muscles. However, close grip push-ups primarily work the triceps. The following are instructions for performing the close grip push-up:
The cross body triceps extension is an easy way to work the back of the arm. There are three muscles that make up the triceps: long head, medial head, and lateral head. The function of the triceps is to extend the elbow. So any time you push a door closed, throw a ball, or put something away in a cabinet, your triceps are involved.
The superman exercise can be used to work the lower back (erector spinae muscle). This exercise also works the hamstrings, butt, and shoulders. Some experts maintain that the superman exercise overloads the spine in a potentially unsafe manner. Thus, contralateral supermans are usually preferred. The contralateral superman exercise involves raising only one arm and the opposing leg (e.g. left arm, right leg). With this technique, there is a reduced load on the lumbar spine. The following are ...
The contralateral superman exercise is ideal for working the lower back (erector spinae muscle). This exercise also works the hamstrings, butt, and shoulders. Some experts maintain that traditional supermans overload the spine in a potentially unsafe manner. Thus, contralateral supermans are usually the recommended alternative. With this technique, there is a reduced load on the lumbar spine. The following are instructions for contralateral supermans:
This exercise is one of the oldest exercises for stimulating the hip flexors and abdominals. However, individuals with low back pain should avoid performing this exercise; abdominal crunches might be a safer alternative.
The hip roll is great if you are looking to target the midsection. This exercise is used to target the oblique muscles, which occupy the sides of the midsection. The job of the obliques is to assist with rotation of the torso, as well as basic abdominal contractions.
The bicycle crunch is traditionally used to work the oblique muscles. While that may be true, this exercise is good for overall abdominal strengthening. The rectus abdominis (the "six pack" portion of the abs) is probably more active than are the obliques. Nevertheless, it is still an effective ab exercise. Instructions for the bicycle crunch are listed below:
This curl up is commonly used to test abdominal endurance. Many fitness certifying organizations use the curl up as a protocol for exercise testing. This exercise is similar to the abdominal crunch. However, the range of motion is greater than the crunch.
Flutter kicks are often used to work the lower abs. Generally, flutter kicks are performed at the end of an abdominal workout when the abs are fatigued. In reality, this exercise does very little for abdominal development. The main muscles worked are the hip flexors. So if you are trying to get the most out of your abs workout, there are better options.
The supine leg raise is often used to target the lower abs. However, when the legs are elevated from a supine position, the hip flexors become the prime movers, not the abs. Leg raises can put stress on the lumbar spine. Thus, alternative exercises are recommended. It is also important to note that the midsection is not divided into lower and upper halves. The rectus abdominis is one muscle.
The prone (face down) bridge or plank is a great exercise if you are trying to develop the core. This exercise is unique in that it is done from a static position. There are no repetitive movements. The prone bridge strengthens the lower back, as well as several muscles in the upper body. If you are new to exercise, consider starting with a modified version of the prone bridge, then progress to a full bridge. A workout mat is recommended.
The one arm dumbbell chest press is perfect for strengthening the pectoralis (chest) muscles. Most chest exercises involve compound movements, or the use of more than one joint. Invariably, the triceps and anterior deltoid are often involved in chest exercises.
Cable crossovers are great for building and shaping the chest muscles. This exercise is performed using a cable pulley machine. First, ensure that the cable pulley is mounted above shoulder height. Adjust the weight (usually a weight stack) as needed.
The use of heavy duty resistance bands (also referred to as "Powerlifting Bands") as a strength training aid has become increasingly popular over recent years. The bands are used for accommodating resistance; a technique that involves creating maximal tension throughout a full range of motion.
The use of heavy duty resistance bands (also referred to as "Powerlifting Bands") as a strength training aid has become increasingly popular over recent years. The bands are used for accommodating resistance; a technique that involves creating maximal tension throughout a full range of motion.
If you are trying to work the hips and butt, this exercise is for you! The side kick mainly targets the gluteus muscles. Any movement away from the center of the body is known as "abduction."
The outer thigh lift is a great way to work the butt. Whenever leg abduction (movement away from the midline of the body) takes place, the gluteus muscles are involved. Instructions for the outer thigh lift are as follows:
The gluteal muscles, or glutes, can be targeted with donkey kicks. This exercise is easy to perform and does not require any fancy equipment. The donkey kick is a classic "butt" exercise, and there are many variations of the original donkey kick. Instructions for the donkey kick exercise are listed below:
The stiff leg deadlift is a great exercise for the hamstring and glute areas. The movement is relatively easy to perform. The key is to keep the lower back flat as you bend at the waist. Do not round the back on the way down. The preferred feet position is about shoulder width apart or less. The stiff leg deadlift can also be performed with the feet together.
If you want to improve balance and strength in the leg muscles, try the single leg deadlift (also called the single leg Romanian deadlift). This exercise is primarily going to work your hamstrings and butt. The single leg deadlift comes with a high degree of difficulty because it is performed on one leg. An advanced level of balance and muscular control is required for this exercise. Here are the instructions:
The dumbbell toe raise (aka dumbbell calf raise) mainly works the upper portion of the calves or the gastrocnemius. Three items are needed for this exercise: 1) a supportive apparatus for balance 2) an elevated surface (e.g. aerobic step, 2 x 4, etc.) to allow for full range of motion 3) a dumbbell.
If you are looking for an easy way to work the calf muscles, consider this exercise. The calf is scientifically known as the gastrocnemius (upper portion). The soleus or bottom half of the calf works as a synergist during this exercise.
The 45 degree leg press is a great way to work the muscles of the hip and thigh. You might see 45 degree leg press machine referred to as a "hip sled." This exercise is commonly used as an alternative to the squat. Instructions for the 45 degree leg press are as follows:
The use of chains as a strength training aid has become increasingly popular over recent years. Chains are used for accommodating resistance; a technique that involves creating maximal tension throughout a full range of motion.
The crossover lunge is an advanced exercise that is used to build strength and improve flexibility in the muscles that act on the hips and thighs. The crossover step is often used as a warm-up to prepare for more dynamic exercises or sports conditioning drills.
There are a number of unconventional training methods which can be used to improve strength. The truck pull is one of them. When performing this exercise, the speed at which the vehicle can be pulled is very slow. Thus, it is ideal for building strength in the lower body.
Love them or hate them, selfies aren't going away from the internet anytime soon. Whether you want to show off your latest vacation photos or your swanky new haircut, you might as well look your most attractive and happiest if you are going to share your digital self-portrait to your online social network of friends, acquaintances, and strangers.
Have you already abandoned your New Year's resolutions? Maybe you need a refresher on how to stick to your goals and avoid succumbing to your worst temptations and unproductive habits. No matter where you are in life right now, all of us can benefit from increasing our sense of willpower.
Need a way to prove your strength? Only superheroes have the power to tear metal, right? Wrong! Even the weakest nerds can shred metal with science on their side. Ripping through metal is easier than it sounds.
The human flag is one of the hardest tricks in all of gymnastics, parkour, freerunning and general playground acrobatics.
This is a fascinating exploration by a New Hampshire public health group. Their only known function is to teach people how to properly sneeze.
If you want to work your shoulders, upper arms, and upper back all at the same time, you've got to try doing a two-minute headstand. It's ok if you've never done one in your life or if you can't balance upsidedown. Check out this yoga how-to video tutorial and do your headstand in front of the wall. You can rest your feet against the wall and focus on staying like this for two minutes. If you want, work on moving your feet away from the wall and balance for two minutes. Whichever variation yo...
Watch this how-to draw a horse video for a walk through of this horse drawing. To begin with you want to start to define the major areas of the head like the nose, mouth ears and eyes of the horse along with the general shape of the head. At this stage keep your lines loose and light so that if you make any mistakes they will be easy to erase later.
Learn how to exercise by doing the lying dumbbell tricep extension on stability ball. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the overhead tricep extension with V bar. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the tricep self stretch with yoga strap. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the assisted rectus femoris stretch. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the lying 1 leg extension on bench with ankle weight. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the rectus femoris self stretch with yoga strap. EXERCISE DETAILS:
