Why Choose LA Fitness for Kickboxing? 

• Convenience: With multiple locations, including one right here in Irvine at 3021 Michelson Dr, finding a class near you is a breeze. 

• Expertise: LA Fitness employs highly trained instructors who will guide you through each session, ensuring you get the most out of your workout. 

• Community: Join a community of like-minded individuals who are all working towards their fitness goals. 

• Facilities: Enjoy state-of-the-art equipment and amenities that enhance your overall workout experience. 

Getting Started 

Ready to throw some punches and kicks? Here’s how to get started: 

1. Visit the LA Fitness website or stop by the Irvine location to check the class schedule. 

1. Sign up for a Kickbox Cardio class and mark your calendar. 

1. Show up with your workout gear, a water bottle, and a fighting spirit. 

  For more information on Kickbox Cardio classes and to find a session near you, visit the LA Fitness class locator.  

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a fitness professional or personal trainer at LA Fitness for personalized guidance and support.  

Why Include Cardio Between Your Exercises? 

1. Accelerates Fat Loss: By combining cardio with weightlifting, you can accelerate fat loss without adding extra time to your workout routine. 
2. Reduces DOMS: Engaging in cardio between sets can reduce Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), improving your recovery time. 
3. Enhances Recovery: Cardioacceleration has been suggested to enhance recovery and may even contribute to muscle growth. 

Effective Cardio Exercises to Include Between Sets 

Here are some effective cardio exercises that you can easily incorporate between your strength training sets: 

• High Knees: A simple yet effective exercise to get your heart rate up. 

• Mountain Climbers: Target your core and shoulders while boosting your cardio. 

• Burpees: The king of cardio moves, burpees will challenge your entire body. 

• Jumping Jacks: A classic cardio exercise that works your whole body. 

LA Fitness Workout Videos for Inspiration 

Maximize Your Gym Time 

By including cardio exercises between your sets you can make the most out of your gym time. By following the guidance provided in LA Fitness workout videos, you can create a dynamic and efficient workout routine that caters to both strength and cardiovascular fitness. Remember, always consult with a fitness professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you’re new to cardio-acceleration.

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a fitness professional or personal trainer at LA Fitness for personalized guidance and support. 

In today’s fast-paced world, finding balance and maintaining mental and physical health can be challenging. However, combining exercise and mindfulness offers a powerful approach to achieving holistic well-being. Let’s explore how these practices complement each other and how you can integrate them into your daily routine.

The Benefits of Exercise 

Exercise is well-known for its physical benefits, such as improving cardiovascular health, building muscle strength, and enhancing flexibility. But the advantages extend far beyond the physical: 

1. Mental Health Boost: Regular physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters. This can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. 
2. Improved Sleep: Exercise can help regulate sleep patterns, leading to better quality rest. 
3. Increased Energy Levels: Engaging in regular physical activity can boost your overall energy and reduce feelings of fatigue. 
4. Enhanced Cognitive Function: Exercise has been shown to improve memory, focus, and overall brain function. 

The Benefits of Mindfulness 

Mindfulness, the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment, offers numerous mental and emotional benefits: 

1. Stress Reduction: Mindfulness helps reduce stress by encouraging a focus on the present rather than worrying about the past or future. 
2. Emotional Regulation: Practicing mindfulness can improve your ability to manage emotions and respond to situations calmly. 
3. Enhanced Self-Awareness: Mindfulness fosters a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings, promoting self-awareness and personal growth. 
4. Improved Concentration: Regular mindfulness practice can enhance your ability to concentrate and stay focused. 

Combining Exercise and Mindfulness 

When combined, exercise and mindfulness create a powerful synergy that enhances both practices. Here are some ways to integrate them: 

1. Mindful Walking or Running: Focus on your breath, the rhythm of your steps, and the sensations in your body as you walk or run. This can turn a simple exercise into a meditative experience. 
2. Yoga: Yoga is a perfect blend of physical exercise and mindfulness. It encourages you to connect with your breath and stay present in each pose. 
3. Mindful Strength Training: Pay attention to your form, breath, and the muscles you’re engaging during strength training exercises. This can improve your workout’s effectiveness and make it more enjoyable. 
4. Breath-Focused Cardio: During cardio workouts, such as cycling or swimming, focus on your breathing patterns. This can help you stay present and enhance your performance. 

Tips for Getting Started 

1. Start Small: Begin with short sessions of mindful exercise and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable. 
2. Set Intentions: Before starting your workout, set an intention to stay present and mindful throughout the session. 
3. Be Patient: Mindfulness is a skill that takes time to develop. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the journey. 
4. Find What Works for You: Experiment with different types of exercise and mindfulness practices to find what resonates with you. 

Integrating exercise and mindfulness into your daily routine can lead to profound improvements in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By staying present and fully engaged in your workouts, you can transform exercise from a mere physical activity into a holistic practice that nurtures your body and mind. Start today and experience the transformative power of combining exercise and mindfulness. 

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a fitness professional or personal trainer at LA Fitness for personalized guidance and support. 

As we transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn, September offers a perfect opportunity to refocus on our health and mental well-being. Here’s a guide to help you embrace wellness this month. 

Physical Health: Building a Strong Foundation 

Stay Active: With cooler temperatures, it’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or even a simple walk in the park. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. 

Balanced Diet: Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into your meals. Think apples, pumpkins, and leafy greens. These are packed with vitamins and nutrients that boost your immune system. 

Hydration: Even as the weather cools, staying hydrated is crucial. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. 

Mental Health: Nurturing Your Mind 

Mindfulness and Meditation: Start your day with a few minutes of mindfulness or meditation. This can help reduce stress and improve your overall mood. 

Connect with Loved Ones: Social connections are vital for mental health. Make time to catch up with friends and family, whether in person or virtually. 

 Limit Screen Time: With the return of busy schedules, it’s easy to get lost in screens. Set boundaries for your screen time to ensure you have time for other enriching activities. 

Self-Care: Making Time for You 

Set Goals: September is a great time to set new goals or revisit existing ones. Whether it’s a fitness goal, a new hobby, or a professional milestone, having something to work towards can be motivating. 

Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or even a warm bath into your routine to help manage stress. 

Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you’re getting enough quality sleep. Create a bedtime routine that helps you wind down and stick to a regular sleep schedule. 

Community and Support 

Join a Group: Whether it’s a fitness class, a book club, or a volunteer group, being part of a community can provide a sense of belonging and support. 

Seek Professional Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy and counseling can provide valuable tools and support. 

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September is a month of change and renewal. By focusing on both physical and mental health, you can set a positive tone for the rest of the year. Remember, wellness is a journey, not a destination. Take small steps each day, and celebrate your progress along the way. 

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a fitness professional or personal trainer at LA Fitness for personalized guidance and support. 

Navigating the world of protein powders and supplements can indeed feel daunting, with countless options lining store shelves and online marketplaces. As you consider adding a scoop to your post-workout smoothie or exploring new ways to boost your nutrition, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices. However, fear not! Our guide to protein powders and supplements will help you make informed decisions on what to buy –or skip. 

Are They Necessary? 

You can achieve your physical goals without extra protein, just as you can get in a good workout without ever lifting a free weight or stepping on a treadmill. Here’s the caveat… If you are restricting calories then you may need a little more protein than usual to replace other fuel sources. Protein powders are also useful in situations of maldigestion/malabsorption or when the alternative is to miss out entirely when you have no other viable choice. Most lean protein sources are animal-based and need to be kept refrigerated which is difficult (but not impossible!) on the run. 

Are They Beneficial? 

The highest quality protein powder still won’t make up for a poor diet or eating habits! But for the three indications mentioned above, a protein supplement can prove a useful tool in one’s exercise arsenal. Depending on the protein source and other ingredients, a supplement can complement the rest of one’s nutrition. 

While the quantity of protein you consume each day is important, the quality and timing of your meals can have just as much, if not more, impact than simply hitting your gram targets. Taking a supplement after a morning workout won’t necessarily help if you’ve already had a full breakfast. However, it can be beneficial with a low-protein lunch prior to an afternoon workout. Additionally, post-workout recovery is another chance to support your efforts, especially if it’s been hours since your last meal. 

What Are My Choices? 

Pure protein by itself is quite bland (think egg whites). So, protein as the main ingredient is usually offered in combination with a little carbs or fat …or a lot in the case of meal replacement shakes. Here’s a run-down of the top protein sources in powder form: 

• Cow’s milk – provides casein and whey (heard of curds & whey?) which are high quality proteins providing all 20 amino acids. Casein is slower-digesting (good to tide you over between meals) and whey is quicker for immediate muscle use. 

• Egg albumen – considered the gold standard with highest quality protein 

• Peas – a non-allergenic (soy, dairy and egg-free) vegetarian choice  

• Soy – a plant-based complete protein providing all essential amino acids (can’t be made by your body and need to be obtained through diet) 

Powders offer a convenient, portable option to mix with your fluid of choice just prior to consumption. The cost should be about $1.50 per serving for a standard protein powder and a little more for specialty products. That price is comparable to plain cooked chicken breast which is more cost-efficient per gram than filet mignon …but not eggs or beans!  

Ready-to-drink packaged shakes are usually shelf-stable but taste best cold. They may be upwards of $3-6 each but often provide more protein and/or calories with that convenience. 

How Much Should I Have? 

Considering that protein powder shouldn’t be a full replacement for protein in the diet, look for about 20-25 grams per serving (2 scoops). Many people will mix that into a glass of milk which already provides 8 grams protein per Cup. Using more powder means a thicker end result, unless you also use more liquid. Some products are clear or formulated to mix with water or juice. 

Other Protein-Based Supplements 

Now other protein-based supplements include amino acids (the building blocks of protein) and peptides (small protein fragments). Both are naturally formed during protein digestion, so taking them in supplement form is an expensive way to bypass that digestive process. While they may be indicated for malabsorptive conditions due to their higher bioavailability compared to solid protein, they are not beneficial for most people. 

Certain essential amino acids, known as branched chains [BCAAs], are used more in cell growth. These BCAAs are also a fuel source for skeletal muscle so may preserve muscle glycogen stores and help reduce muscle breakdown induced by exercise. Read the Supplement Facts panel carefully – it may show a large number like 5000 mg but that’s only 5 grams of protein. 

The Take-Away 

Protein powders are convenient when ready-to-eat solid proteins, refrigeration and/or cooking are unavailable, but can be expensive. They won’t enhance your exercise routine unless you’re already optimizing your training and nutrition. Focus on a balanced diet and effective training to achieve your fitness goals. 

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a fitness professional or personal trainer at LA Fitness for personalized guidance and support. 

September is Yoga Awareness Month, a perfect time to explore the incredible benefits of yoga and how it can enhance your life. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, this month is all about embracing the practice and discovering its transformative power.

The Benefits of Yoga 

1. Improves Flexibility: Yoga stretches your muscles and increases your range of motion. Over time, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your flexibility, which can help prevent injuries and improve your overall physical performance. 
2. Builds Strength: Many yoga poses require you to support your body weight in new ways, including balancing on one leg or supporting yourself with your arms. This helps build muscle strength and endurance. 
3. Enhances Mental Clarity: Yoga encourages you to focus on your breath and be present in the moment. This mindfulness practice can reduce stress, improve concentration, and enhance your mental clarity. 
4. Boosts Emotional Health: Regular yoga practice can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The combination of physical movement, breathwork, and meditation promotes a sense of calm and well-being. 
5. Supports Heart Health: Yoga can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve circulation. These benefits contribute to a healthier heart and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. 
6. Promotes Better Sleep: Yoga can help you relax and unwind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Poses that focus on deep breathing and relaxation are particularly beneficial for improving sleep quality. 

Join a Yoga Class at LA Fitness 

If you’re looking to start or deepen your yoga practice, consider joining a yoga class at LA Fitness. Their experienced instructors offer a variety of classes suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. You’ll find a supportive community and a welcoming environment to explore the many benefits of yoga. 

Yoga Awareness Month is a wonderful opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being. By incorporating yoga into your routine, you can enjoy improved flexibility, strength, mental clarity, and emotional health. Plus, with options like LA Fitness offering yoga classes, it’s easier than ever to get started. Embrace the journey and discover the transformative power of yoga this September! 

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a fitness professional or personal trainer at LA Fitness for personalized guidance and support. 

Gluten/wheat is fattening

People with celiac disease are allergic to gluten, a protein found in wheat, and should avoid gluten in their diet. Otherwise, wheat and wheat protein are no more inherently fattening or harmful to metabolism than any other grain or component. The problem is all the flour products (bread/rolls, buns, crackers, muffins/cupcakes, pancakes/waffles, pasta, pretzels) made from wheat—those products are refined and lack the fiber and full nutrients that wheat kernels have. We can thrive perfectly well without the flour products (from any grain)!

The verdict – only those with an allergy need to avoid gluten. Whole grains of various kinds are better for everyone.

Cut out fat to lose weight

Too much of any macronutrient can provide excess calories and lead to obesity and metabolic disorder. Fat is high in calories (providing twice as many calories as carbohydrates or proteins per gram), however, it is an essential nutrient. You need some dietary fat for basic survival and body processes like hormone production and digestion. Several fat sources provide other nutrients such as fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) or essential fatty acids. Enough fat in a meal satisfies so you feel fuller longer, helping to stave off hunger. It also slows digestion a little to limit spikes in blood sugar.

The verdict – you shouldn’t cut out fat completely but could stand to reduce if your intake is high.

Don’t eat after 8pm

An external clock shouldn’t dictate eating if you are hungry. Absolutely, shift your calorie intake to the morning to fuel your daily activities. If you’re up until midnight, a healthy 9pm snack (around 150 calories) is fine. However, most late-night eating involves unhealthy options like ice cream and chips, rather than grilled fish and salad. Extra calories at any time can hinder weight loss efforts. Large volumes before reclining in bed can exacerbate heartburn.

The verdict – it’s not the clock but the choice of food in context of your day’s intake and activity pattern that matters.

It takes a lot of protein to build muscle

Individual muscle fibers are made of contractile proteins, namely actin and myosin. Making new cells does take some additional protein, but only to the tune of 10-15 additional grams per day. In comparison, a tall glass of milk (1.5 Cups) provides 12 grams of protein and two eggs provide 14 grams. Research shows that there is no anabolic benefit to increasing protein beyond 35% calories when energy is adequate for growth. You really need an increase in overall fuel to support muscle growth with increased resistance training. As your total caloric consumption rises, so should your protein as a normal proportion of that intake.

The truth is that muscle growth requires carbohydrate and fat, too. Here’s why: Whether it’s for your skin, liver or muscle, each cell is made up of the elements carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen. Only amino acids from protein provide all four components, but carbohydrate and fat contribute three of them and act as fuel allowing the physical work that’s required for growth.

The verdict – it’s a very small raise in protein necessary to provide a critical building block for muscle growth.

Stimulant drinks give you energy

Energy to supply our cells and muscles with fuel only comes from the macronutrient sources carbohydrate, fat, protein, (as well as the non-nutrient alcohol) which may get converted to ATP if not stored as reserves. ATP stands for Adenosine Tri Phosphate and is the compound that ultimately allows muscles to contract.

‘Energy drinks’ that are low-calorie and sugar-free don’t have significant macronutrients to turn into fuel. Instead, they have compounds like caffeine and taurine which trigger the nervous system, making one feel more alert or awake. Really, they are BUZZ drinks that hype you up, like when your body produces the neurotransmitter adrenaline when you are in danger.

The verdict – energy drinks do provide stimulation, but not necessarily fuel.

Sugar causes Type 2 Diabetes

Adult onset diabetes is a condition with several factors contributing to its development, namely an excess of calories which leads to obesity and insulin resistance. A calorie surplus can come from too little physical activity as well as too much of any energy-contributing compound (carbohydrate, protein, fat, alcohol). Most sugary foods come with a lot of fat and therefore calories, and added sugars usually mean the food lacks fiber, protein and other nutrients.

Natural sugars in fruit and milk don’t increase the risk for Type 2 Diabetes. It’s a lot easier to drink a 16-ounce soft drink than to eat its sugar equivalent of 3 oranges! The American Diabetes Association notes that research points to sugary drinks being linked to Type 2 Diabetes risk and recommends people avoid drinking sugar-sweetened beverages.

The verdict – sugars, especially in liquid form, do contribute to extra calories and fat production which influence insulin resistance but don’t directly cause adult onset diabetes.

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and support.