Category Archives: Uncategorized

The challenge of rowing

The types of injuries that are common in rowing occur as a result of poor preparation.

Rowing is great for all-around fitness. However, it is a challenge in terms of the complexity of the technique and the physical demands it puts on the body.

Inspired by the annual boat race, many people take to rowing for the first time. But the crews of Oxford and Cambridge make it look so much easier than it is.

You can spot a novice rower in the gym because their rowing will be all arms and very little legs. It’s an inefficient way to row.

The most common injury in rowing is to the lower back. But other injuries that affect rowers on a regular basis affect the ribs, knees, wrists and shoulders.

Let’s see what can be done to help prevent them …

Common Rowing Injuries

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A closer look at salt

The vast majority of us should eat less salt. We will go into more detail throughout this blog. However, before we start, let’s get one thing straight. We don’t wish to demonise salt completely. After all, it is not all bad.

But as the recent Salt Awareness Week helped to remind us, it is becoming clear that excess salt is a serious problem.

So, what are the benefits? What constitutes too much salt? What problems can excess salt cause? And how can we all cut down?

Let’s take a closer look.

Eat less salt

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Back in the saddle

Making sure you are in the correct position when cycling is a must.

We’ve reached that time of year where the days are noticeably longer.  It feels about time to dust down the bike. But before you try to harness your inner Geraint Thomas, think about your bike’s set up.

Bad ergonomics on a bike can lead to injuries. It is worth understanding how to adjust your bike in an appropriate manner.  One that will allow your body to operate efficiently and effectively.

Let’s find out more.

Correct Cycling Position

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What to look out for

In order to prevent the most common cycling injuries, it helps to know what they are.

Obviously, in some instances accidents occur and injuries can be serious or sometimes fatal. However, we want to put your mind at rest. The media can portray cycling as a dangerous activity. It is, however far safer than many people think.

The vast proportion of bad accidents are caused by recklessness.  Sadly, there will always be thoughtless drivers. But good road sense, and being extra vigilant (especially at junctions) will vastly improve your chances of staying safe.

The fact is, the majority of cycling injuries are overuse injuries. The most affected areas being the knees, ankles, lower back and neck. We look at ways to guard against these more common injuries.

Prevent Cycling Injuries

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Please click on the link below for access to the first issue of our London Marathon Newsletter

London Marathon Newsletter 1

Please click on the link below for access to the second issue of our London Marathon Newsletter

London Marathon Newsletter 2

Please click the link below for access to the third issue

London Marathon Newsletter 3

Please click the link below for access to the fourth issue

London Marathon Newsletter 4

How coordinated are you?

Improving coordination is a subject that gets less coverage in fitness circles than others.

There are acres of pages on losing weight or strength training, but coordination is less talked about.

But when you think about it, good coordination is at the heart of so much of what we do. Whether it is driving, rushing for the train, or navigating your way around a busy street.

Good coordination can enhance your ability in sport. It can help prevent all kinds of injuries and help you stay more effective as you age.

So whilst the usual metrics of cardiovascular fitness and strength and flexibility all matter, it pays to focus some attention on how you coordinate movement.

Improving coordination

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What are we training for?

Functional strength training doesn’t sound too exciting. But it might just be a vital step in looking after your health over the long term.

Of course, for many people, there is an element of vanity involved in strength training.

After all, there is nothing wrong with looking trim and toned.

But there has been a growing recognition that exercise should be very specifically targetted to our actual needs. And that is where functional strength training comes in.

Functional strength training

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