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If you hated gym glass as a kid, you probably hate working out now

Middle school gym class. What exactly comes to mind when you hear those words might just determine your feelings on exercising in your adult life. Researchers from Iowa State University surveyed more than 1,000 Americans, aged 18 to 40 years old, using a specially created lengthy online questionnaire. Scientists then analyzed participants’ positive or negative attitudes toward gym class with the participants’ current behavior and attitudes toward physical fitness. Participants also were asked to describe in detail, their best and worst memories from gym class. For those who disliked gym class, their worst memories typically involved embarrassment, bullying, or a general lack on enjoyment. Seven percent of people shared their best memory as a day when they skipped gym class or didn’t have to take it any more. Not surprisingly, people who reported enjoying gym class were more likely to respond that they enjoy physical activities today. They were also…

The big differences between Keto and Paleo diets

Paleo and Keto diets (short for “ketogenic”) are nothing new. They’ve been around far longer than the fit celebrities and lifestyle bloggers who sing their praises. (Famous Paleo followers include Jessica Biel and Matthew McConaughey, while Halley Berry and Kourtney Kardashian both go crazy for Keto.) So what’s the difference? You’ve likely heard these names tossed around in certain social circles or at the gym, but maybe couldn’t speak to what each requires you to do. Here is a full breakdown of what each is and the major differences between them. What is the keto diet? The primary goal of the Keto diet is weight loss. You are essentially converting yourself from a “sugar burner” to a “fat burner,” according to NutritionalKetosisforHealth.com. This eating plan is all about minimizing carbs and increasing fats to encourage your body to use fat as its primary form of energy. While every dieter will have slightly different needs,…

6 unexpected factors that put you at risk of heart disease

Every 60 seconds, a women will die from heart disease in the U.S., according to the American Heart Association. Heart disease is the number one killer of women (and men) in America, but it’s not always just giving up cigarettes and stepping away from donut box that will save you. It’s a little more involved than that. It is true that the biggest risk factors for heart disease are obesity, lack of exercise, smoking and high blood pressure, according to the AHA, but as a women, there are other factors than increase your risk of blocked arteries as well. Little did you know that when you were growing up, your likelihood for developing heart disease was beginning to form. While you couldn’t decide at what age you got your period or whether you’ve had heartbreak, you can avoid other lesser-known stressors like diet pills. February is Heart Healthy Month, and if you’re serious…

Here’s how you can maximize your walking-only workout

Gym membership get too expensive? Running not an option? Here are are a few ways you can take that daily walking workout to the next level. Time to get moving! 1. Add intervals Walking faster isn’t the only way to burn more calories. Researchers from Ohio State University found that changing pace can increase metabolic heart rate by nearly 20 percent over those who maintain a fixed pace while they walk. The study also found that we tend to walk faster when we have longer distances to cover. So set a goal for at least one long distance walk per week, and practice picking up the pace every five minutes or so. 2. Head uphill While it’s great to walk a track, or circle your office building when the weather gets cold, consider adding some gradient to your walk. It’s a no-brainer than you’ll expend more energy and burn more calories than…

Why being skinny was easier for your parents

It’s unfair but true: Even if young adults today ate the same diet as their parents did at the same age, they would still be heavier. According to a study published in Obesity Research & Clinical Practice, adults in the ’70s could eat more food and exercise less with significantly less chance of gaining weight. The study observed the diets of 36,400 Americans between 1971 and 2008, as well as physical activity logs of 14,419 people between 1988 and 2006. Researchers found that people whose eating and exercise patterns were on par with people 20 or 30 years ago, still weighed about 10 percent more. The study shows that weight management is much more complex than commonly thought. “Our study results suggest that if you are 25, you’d have to eat even less and exercise more than those older, to prevent gaining weight,” Jennifer Kuk, a professor of kinesiology and health science…