Get Out and Get Active, Olympic-Style

Feeling inspired by the 2012 Olympic Games? Release your inner champion with some fun, easy ways to get out and get active! Go ahead and try a new sport (I highly suggest the trampoline) or bring back those soccer skills you lost after elementary school. Most importantly, have fun with it—the gold medal isn’t everything. […]

Fitness and Rest: Balance for Results

Many athletes—from serious competitors to avid fitness enthusiasts—work hard everyday with the mantra more is better. Strength training, hard intervals and long workouts are included, but often rest and recovery are neglected. Rest is key to success in any training program whether you are an experienced marathoner, hardcore spin devotee, CrossFit fan or a teenage […]

Your Genes Aren’t Your Destiny

Some of our health is pre-determined by the luck of our genes, but new evidence shows that we can influence the outcome even when our genetics are stacked against us. One third of all cancers are caused by lifestyle choices: tobacco, alcohol, diet and obesity. The cancers caused by our habits can sometimes be prevented […]

Ready to Run: Chicago Marathon Countdown

You never thought it would get here, but now October 9 is looming in sight. All those miles, all the sweat and it’s almost time to run your 26.2 miles. Nervous? Of course! So here are a few last minute tips from veteran runner and North Shore running coach, Christy Coughlin. Get ready to run! […]

Ease Sore Muscles with These Tools

Simple physical therapy tools can heal minor injuries, ease muscle tightness and prevent injuries. But what do you need and how do you use them? Here’s the 411 for athletes and weekend warriors. Consult with a health care professional before trying one of these tools to make sure you’re using the proper technique, and that […]

Running with a Dog

My running partner is tall, dark, handsome, fit, loving and always ready for adventure.   His name is Jet, and he is my dog. Training, treats, patience, and finally, Jet is a great companion on my morning runs. Running is a great way for you and your dog to stay fit, expend energy in a […]

Fitness for the Ages

There are 25 steps up to the Tru Fit Personal Training Studio in Evanston. But the climb is not intimidating to Steffie Masur, 86, of Evanston, who willingly scales the stairs two times a week to work out with trainer Anne Monma. Steffie explains that she has always been active. When she stopped playing tennis […]

Move of the Month: Single Leg Stability Challenge

This simple but challenging exercise will activate core and hip muscles as stabilizers, while arms and head are moving through different planes of motion. This movement improves balance, builds greater spinal stability, and strengthens hip and butt muscles. 1. Stand tall with relaxed shoulders and good postural alignment. 2. Lift right leg so you are […]

2010 Holiday Gift & Entertainment Guide

We’re all searching this time of year: for the perfect holiday cookie recipe, the most gorgeous trimmings for our home, the ideal gift for everyone on our list.   And after all that is accomplished, we might even search for a little serenity. We’ll leave the serenity to you, but meanwhile, we’re helping by giving […]