Workouts That Increase Speed

Increasing speed can be beneficial for many sports as well as running.

Increasing speed is beneficial for participation in most sports. The first impulse to increase speed might be to work on sprinting, but resistance training to work the fast-twitch muscle fibers in all muscle groups in your body will increase quickness and agility, too. Resistance bands are a good form of resistance for this type of training, but free weights can be used just as effectively, using low weights/resistance and high repetitions and sets.

Working the Legs

Strong legs are the powerhouse behind a swift runner.

Strong leg muscles are a necessity if increasing your speed is the goal. A good, complete leg workout will include exercises that involve all of the muscle groups in your legs. Exercises such as lunges, squats, legs curls and leg extensions, calf raises and inner and outer thigh presses will give you a well-rounded leg workout.

Upper Body Exercises

Working the upper body will help increase speed by develping fast-twitch muscles.

Including the muscles in your upper body in your overall conditioning will help increase your speed by improving the state of more of your fast-twitch muscle fibers than just those in your legs. When you are running, you engage your upper body by pumping your arms to propel yourself forward. This action utilizes your chest and shoulders which can be worked by performing high rows, bench press and triceps extensions. Be sure to include your lower back, too. A strong lower back works to assist both your upper body and your legs. A great exercise for the lower back is "good mornings," which are very similar to toe touches, but they are done with a bar attached to free weights or bands for resistance.

Cardio--Sprints

Short sprints are an effective way to increase speed.

The most obvious part of a program to increase speed would be a sprint workout. Because you will be working your leg muscles when sprinting, it can be done along with your resistance exercises on the same day that you work on your legs but if you want to incorporate either sprints or a tempo run, which is more of an aerobic workout for conditioning, each day that you work out, be sure to give your body an hour or more recovery time between working upper body muscles and sprinting. An effective sprint training session will include various distances (10 meters, 20 meters, 30 meters, etc) with a minimum of 60 seconds between sprints for recovery and a range of different starting positions, as well. For instance, you could start one sprint in a typical three-point runners stance, crouching and bracing yourself with your hands in front of you, fingertips on the ground and one leg bent at the knee, the other extended behind you; start your next sprint facing backwards, in the opposite direction that you will be running; and begin a third sprint lying flat on the ground so that you have to jump up into an upright position to run.

Helpful Advice

Resistance bands are an effective form of resistance for the upper and lower body exercises listed here, but the exercises can be performed effectively using free weights, too. Whatever form of resistance you have at your disposal will be helpful in a program to increase your speed.

It is a good idea to give yourself a rest day between training days. An effective workout plan would be a three-day split: work your upper body on the first day, rest on the second day, work your legs on the third day, rest on the fourth day, work upper body again on the fifth day (changing the exercises from the first day) and take at least one more rest day before starting the workout over again.

To get the most out of any exercise program, it is a good idea to not work legs and upper body on the same day. Because you would be involving more than one major muscle group, doing so would overextend your body's recovery as well as the nutrients available.

Tags: upper body, your legs, increase speed, your upper, your upper body

Tips On Fund Raising

There are a number of ways to raise money.

You know how difficult it is to give your money away, especially in poor economic times. So when it comes to raising funds for an important cause, it's clear you have your work cut out for you. As long as you remain determined and dedicated to the cause, however, your fundraiser has a chance at big success.

Set Goals

Don't try to raise money without first deciding how much you want to raise. You also need to determine a date that you need the money by. These details are crucial to helping you develop your fundraiser, as proper evaluation of fundraising programs and products is impossible without a time frame and desired amount.

Share Your Story

Others are unlikely to contribute to a cause they know nothing about. Get your story out to the public to increase interest and catch the eye of the public. Create a flyer discussing what motivated you to start the fundraiser, why the topic is close to your heart and a tangible impact each donation makes toward the cause. For instance, if you are raising money for underprivileged children, mention that 10 dollars helps feed one child.

Time It Right

If you are organizing a series of fundraisers, be careful not to schedule them too close together. Even in areas with large populations, donors are hard-pressed to contribute significant amounts of cash if a new fundraiser pops up every week. You also want to avoid scheduling your fundraiser during a time it has to compete with another event; this is unfair for all parties involved.

Suggest Donation Amounts

When it comes to asking for contributions, it's best not to leave your donors with the option of giving open-ended amounts. Start by suggesting a minimum donation and then offer a wide range of options from that point, such as 25, 50 and 100 dollars.

Start a Blog

Don't forget to take advantage of the Internet to get the word out about your fundraising project. Create a blog dedicated to sharing your fundraiser with the world, and be sure to include subtle reminders that you are accepting donations. Use the blog to keep interested parties informed as to how the project is going, how much money has come in and what ways the proceeds have already benefited the cause.

Show Enthusiasm

Raising money for a cause you care about should excite you, and don't be afraid to let others know that. The more enthusiasm and passion you show for the fundraiser, the more likely your infectious attitude is to rub off on potential donors as well as any volunteers working on the project.

Tags: your fundraiser, about your, raise money

What Causes Nausea After Meals

What Causes Nausea After Meals?

Did you ever eat something for dinner, thinking it tasted pretty good -- just to realize a little later that your dinner didn't like you as much as you liked it?

You're not alone. Just about everybody has experienced this. The problem can be very minor, or it could be an indication of something more serious.

Do certain foods make you sick?

Sometimes, nausea after eating comes from a food that didn't agree with you. Luckily, most people know what foods are difficult for them, and accordingly stay away from them.

Of course, a food that has never made you sick before can surprise you and make you sick at one time or another.

When you can't avoid having a food that has made you nauseous in the past, sometimes it's best to take an over-the-counter antacid either before you eat, or shortly after.

What if something simple doesn't clear it up?

For most people, an over-the-counter medicine will help with the nausea that can come after a meal.

However, if the nausea continues, it could be an indication of something more serious.

The causes for nausea are many, and if you are sick after every meal, you should visit your doctor.

After all, nausea can be an indicator of pregnancy, an ulcer, gallstones and much more -- and those are conditions that should be observed and treated by a doctor.

What if you keep getting sicker?

Sometimes, nausea keeps going on and on until it's not just nausea anymore. You're downright sick.

If you start vomiting after you eat, you could have something very serious going on. Food poisoning will cause nausea at first, and then vomiting.

And if the nausea is compounded by hives on your body, you might have a food allergy, like so many other people do.

Did you eat too fast?

When you sit down to eat, enjoy your meal. Take time to chew it and not just gulp it. This sounds simple, but an amazing number of people just wolf down their dinners without even taking the time to taste what they're eating -- and then they end up re-living that dinner again and again. Not much fun!

Get your nausea under control

Nausea can be very unpleasant, but there are ways to try to make yourself feel better. Sipping a Coca-Cola can help, as will eating some crackers. Over-the-counter antacids -- even something as simple as a Tums -- will often help clear up the nausea.

If a simple remedy doesn't help after a while, and you keep getting sicker, be careful not to let it go too far. You might have something that needs checked out further.

If you're chronically nauseous after eating, that's also something to be concerned about.

When should you see a doctor?

Nausea complicated by pain or vomiting is always cause for concern. However, you usually don't need to see a doctor, unless it's chronic or you have painful symptoms.

For example, if you have nausea along with pain in your upper right abdomen and difficulty with greasy food, you could have gallstones.

Do you have pain in your lower right side? See a doctor immediately. You might have appendicitis, your appendix can rupture in 24 hours or less, causing a life-threatening situation.

How about a a burning pain in your abdomen between your breastbone and belly button? You could have an ulcer.

Tags: could have, food that, might have, pain your, after eating, After Meals, Causes Nausea

What Causes Toes To Go Numb

A tingling, prickly or numb feeling in your toes can be uncomfortable and makes it difficult for you to get up and walk around. Numb toes may be a symptom of serious medical conditions or it may be nothing more than a temporary annoyance. Certain medical disorders and personal habits are among the causes of numb toes.

Lack of Movement

If you sit in your desk chair or driver's seat for many hours without getting up to move around, you may experience numbness in your feet and toes.

Posture

Numbness in your toes may be caused by poor posture such as crossing your legs at your knees or ankles, sitting with your legs folded or with a foot underneath you.

Poor Circulation

Poor circulation as a result of diabetes or heart disease may cause a lack of blood supply to your feet, resulting in numbness.

Artery Disease

Narrowing or hardening of the arteries in your legs can cause numbness in your toes, especially while standing or walking.

Injury

A direct injury to your toes or foot may cause numbness in your toes, along with other symptoms such as swelling and redness.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a type of progressive damage to the nerves of your body that begins with symptoms such as pain, burning and numbness in your toes.

Mineral Imbalances

An imbalance of potassium, sodium or calcium in your blood may cause cramping and numbness in your legs, feet and toes.

Tags: your toes, numbness your, your legs, cause numbness, cause numbness your, feet toes

Types Of Charity

There are many different organizations for which you may want to consider volunteering. There are also many different things that are considered charitable contributions. The cliche "one person can make a difference" is true. You do not have to be rich, powerful or famous in order to be that person. Everyone has something to offer; you just have to find the best way that you can help support the worthy cause of your choice.

Your Money

A type of charity that almost any organization needs is monetary donations. Because charities are nonprofit organizations, they rely on grants that they get from government agencies and on the financial support from contributors to help them go further with their missions. No matter the size of the check, any amount of money can help these programs succeed. You hear all the time that just a few pennies to a few dollars a day can make a world of difference, and it can. This is because your donations alone may not seem like much, but when they are combined with generosity of others, they can add up to a sizable amount pretty quickly.

Your Time

One of the other main types of charity that many organizations need is your time. Volunteering with fund-raising, manual labor or answering phones--depending on the kind of charities that you look into helping, the list could go on and on. Every organization needs people to help run it and support it by taking time out of their busy lives to help. Even if you can offer only a few hours a week or few days a month or even a year, becoming a volunteer can be the best way possible for you to help support the worthy causes of your choice.

Your Skills

Also always in demand are skilled volunteers. These are different from standard volunteers in the aspect that skilled volunteers use special expertise to help charities out. This could range from advertisers creating a campaign for a cause at no charge and photographers covering events for free to lawyers representing the organization by looking into local laws and grants and bookkeepers making sure that all the records are kept up correctly. The fewer professionals that a nonprofit establishment has to hire, the more money that it can put back into its work.

Your Resources

Even the smallest types of charity can help. If you do not have any money, time nor expert skills to offer, you can still donate to charities. Many places can use items that you do not anymore. Clothing, furniture and even old vehicles can be donated to benefit many causes. Almost any tangible goods that are in decent condition can be reused or resold to add to an organization's budget.

Even if you have nothing that you can actually give, think about what you have that you could lend out. Some places need larger vehicles, for example, so if you have a van or a truck that you could let them use a few times a month, that would be considered one of the types of charity. Other places may need lawn-care equipment to maintain their grounds; even if you can't cut the grass for them yourself, maybe you could let them use your lawnmower or snowblower to do the jobs themselves.

Benefits

Anything that you can find in your heart to give has many benefits. Not only does volunteering or donating give you a sense of pride that you are doing something to change things, it can offer you financial and professional perks as well. Tax write-offs are possible on almost any donations. Volunteering can spruce up any college application or resume. The expert work you do for an organization can also be included in your portfolio. Just as the list could go on and on with how many different types of charity there are, the benefits attached with helping to support them do also.

Tags: types charity, help support, many different, charity that, choice Your, could them

Youth Sport Injuries

With growing awareness of health benefits, as well as the competitive nature and enjoyment experienced through these physical activities, participation in youth sports has increased throughout the years. In 2000 the U.S. Census Bureau reported that 30.6 percent of children ages 6 to 11 participated in sports, and 37.2 percent of 12- to 17-year-olds. In 2003 the numbers increased to 36.2 percent and 41.8 percent, respectively.

With the increase in numbers comes an increase in injuries. According to SAFE Kids USA, "children ages 5 to 14 account for nearly 40 percent of all sports-related injuries treated in hospital emergency departments."

Statistics

As children get older, the intensity and competitive nature of sports increases and injuries tend to be more severe. SAFE KIDS USA reports that 3.5 million children 14 and under receive medical treatment for sports injuries each year.

Children are more likely to become injured with contact sports. In 2002 SAFE KIDS USA reported that children between the ages of 5 to 14 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for sports-related injuries. Basketball marked the highest number of visits with 207,400 injuries. Football-related injuries tallied the second highest with 187,800. At 116,900 injuries baseball and softball placed third on the list, however this contact sport reported the most fatal injuries. Soccer-related injuries were listed fourth with 76,200, and gymnastics was fifth with 21,200 injuries.

Types

Acute and chronic injuries occur more often during practice than in game situations. The most common injuries include sprains, strains, contusions and fractures. Sprains happen as a result from overstretching or tearing a ligament. Strains are usually caused by over-stretching or pulling a muscle or tendon. Contusions are not fractures, but injuries to the tissues that are usually called bruises. Fractures fall under the category of broken bones. During summer sports, kids may also suffer from heat stroke, dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Contact Sports

Children are more likely to become injured with contact sports. In 2002 SAFE KIDS USA reported that children between the ages of 5 to 14 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for sports-related injuries. Basketball marked the highest number of visits with 207,400 injuries. Football-related injuries tallied the second highest with 187,800. At 116,900 injuries baseball and softball placed third on the list, however this contact sport reported the most fatal injuries. Soccer-related injuries were listed fourth with 76,200, and gymnastics was fifth with 21,200 injuries.

Prevention/Solution

Safety gear and proper athletic equipment for the respective sport are essential to preventing injury.

Properly warming up the muscles and stretching before practice and games helps increase flexibility and reduce incidents such as overuse injuries. During summer sports children must receive frequent rest periods and plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Treatment

The National Athletic Trainer's Association (NATA) suggests seeking medical attention first in order to insure that the injury is not serious. NATA then recommends conventional treatment such as resting the injury, icing it for 15 to 20 minutes, using a compression device such as a wrap or a bandage, and elevating the injury to reduce swelling and help aid the healing process.

Alternative approaches utilize Eastern philosophy practices, such as herbal remedies like vitamins or cleansing teas; applying balms; deep stretches and exercises such as yoga and meditation; and hands-on processes such as acupuncture.

Tags: with injuries, hospital emergency, reported that, SAFE KIDS, sports-related injuries, treated hospital

Trego Wisconsin Resorts

Trego is located in Washburn County in Northwest Wisconsin. The town has a population of just under 1,000 and is home to Trego Lake and Namekagon River, which is part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Popular outdoor activities include fishing, canoeing, tubing, snowmobiling, swimming and hiking. Resorts in the Trego area take advantage of the natural setting, offering numerous activities for all ages.

Heartwood Conference Center & Retreat

Heartwood Conference Center & Retreat encompasses 700 acres of woodlands, two private lakes and is close to the Namekagon River. There are over a dozen trails totaling 20 miles for biking, hiking or cross-country skiing. Accommodations include a 52-room lodge, private cottages, duplexes and a five-bedroom house. Heartland offers canoe, kayak and tube rentals with shuttle service to and from Namekagon River. Bike rentals, basketball, tennis, horseshoes, sand volleyball, hay rides, and outdoor and indoor games are also available.

Heartwood Conference Center & Retreat

N10884 Hoinville Road

Trego, WI 54888

800-577-4848

heartwoodconferencecenter.com

Bay Park Resort & Campground

Bay Park Resort & Campground is situated on Trego Lake. Covering more than 450 acres, the resort offers seasonal camping and five different cabin rentals. Each cabin is located 25 feet from Trego Lake and comes with a boat. The cabins are available with one, two or three bedrooms with bedding furnished and each cabin has a deck facing the lake complete with a grill and picnic table. Each has a living room with cable TV, a full kitchen and air conditioning. The resort offers several activities including two playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, outdoor pool, shuffleboard, horseshoes, recreation room and game room. Canoe, row and pontoon boats are available for rental. Bay Park also includes a laundry facility, snack bar and a convenience store where with items ranging from groceries to bait to beer.

Bay Park Resort & Campground

N8347 Bay Park Road

Trego, WI 54888

715-635-2840

bayparkresort.com

Log Cabin Resort & Campground

Log Cabin Resort & Campground offers over 30 campsites and seven different log cabins. All cabins include a picnic table, fire pit and charcoal grill. Two of the cabins are only for sleeping and can hold six people. The other five cabins include TVs and full kitchens; they range in size from room to sleep two to room to sleep 10. The resort's amenities include a camp store, log sauna, horseshoes, play area, picnic area, paddle boats and game room equipped with video games, pool table and jukebox. Log Cabin offers canoe, kayak and tube rentals and has shuttle service to and from Namekagon and St. Croix Rivers. The resort also features a fishing pond and nearby hiking and bike trails.

Log Cabin Resort & Campground

N7470 Log Cabin Drive

Trego, WI 54888

715-635-2959

logcabin-resort.com

Tags: Resort Campground, Cabin Resort, Cabin Resort Campground, Center Retreat, Conference Center

The Best Sneakers For People With Bone Spurs In Their Heels

The Best Sneakers for People With Bone Spurs in Their Heels

Bone spurs in the heel can be extremely painful, causing many to alter the way they move or stop walking altogether. While a surgical avenue is being explored, people turn to the many options of footwear to mitigate their throbbing foot pain. The best sneakers for heel spur pain relieve the wearers' swelling while allowing them to maintain their current lifestyle until a more permanent solution can be reached.

Brooks Men's Control

This orthopedic sneaker features motion-control running for those experiencing painful heel spurs. The Brooks sneaker employs "hydroflow," a proprietary viscous fluid that's chambered in the heel and forefoot to dampen and absorb shock. The shoe is built with an extended progressive diagonal rollbar to provide aggressive pronation control and assist with standing and pushing off to run. The upper portion of the shoe also contains positional controls to maintain foot position so the cushioned chambers stay on the affected heel for maximum comfort.

New Balance Women's WR1225ST High Stability Running Shoe

Designed for moderate to sever over-pronators, this New Balance running shoe employs NB's own "Abzorb" cushioning in both heel and forefoot for greater coverage of shock absorption in addition to an Anzorb strobel board running the length of the shoe to create greater foot stability. Stabilicore, a medial support system that provides an even distribution of weight during transition from heel to toe-off, is used inside the heel and toe cushions.

PW Minor Performance Walker

This shoe is built to comply with customized orthotics and has a pillow-back with foam-padded collar with Velcro straps for closure with comfort. The shoe is ideal for heel pain as its permanent insole is made of a "Poron" heel with metatarsal strike zones, meaning it can absorb the pressure points that cause heel spur pain. The product is backed by PW Minor's credibility in orthopedic footwear with more than 125 years in business.

Tags: Best Sneakers, Best Sneakers People, Bone Spurs, Bone Spurs Their, heel forefoot

Tuna Fishing Party Boats In New Jersey

Deep-sea fishing for tuna is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors

Anglers often say having a bad day of fishing still beats a day in the office. Deep-sea fishing for tuna combines relaxation with the camaraderie of like-minded people with the anticipation of catching the "big one" to share with family and friends. Sailing on a New Jersey party boat fishing for tuna is a relaxing way to enjoy a day of fishing and the adventure of sailing.

Sea Devil

Feel the anticipation and excitment after a tuna is hooked

The Sea Devil, located in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, offers 23 hours of tuna fishing aboard a comfortable yacht with bunks available and experienced anglers ready to help, according to the Web site Party Boat New Jersey.com.

The Sea Devil excursions begin before leaving the dock when the captain reviews procedures with passengers and then call passengers one by one to pick out a bunk. It sets sail around 5 p.m. to Hudson Canyon near the mouth of the Hudson River. Since the trip takes a few hours, passengers rest on the way, sleep or eat. Fishing begins before midnight or early morning.

The Sea Devil crew checks the drag on all lines and explains tuna-fishing techniques to beginners or provides tips on handling the rod for the more experienced angler. The Sea Devil crew tags, bleeds, cleans and stores tuna in iced fish hold below deck.

Sea Devil

405 Channel Drive

Point Pleasant, NJ 08742

732-701-1094

Partyboatnj.com

Voyager

A New Jersey party boat is a great way to get out with others and fish for tuna

The Voyager is an 85-by-22-foot aluminum super cruiser yacht with a full galley, heated cabins, heated and air-conditioned bunk rooms below deck and a sundeck with plenty of seating, according to the Voyager Fishing Web site. The Voyager specializes in Yellow Fin and Albacore tuna fishing in several offshore canyons.

The Voyager departs from Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey for tuna fishing from September to November and strictly limits the trip to 20 or 24 people depending on the trip to allow plenty of room for fishing. The trip takes about four hours.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for one price during 24- to 48-hour trips. For those who don't own stand-up rods and other deep-sea fishing gear, you can rent fishing gear on board.

Captain Jeff Gutman

Voyager

P.O. Box 1329

Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742

732-295-3019

Voyagerfishing.com

Prowler 5

The Prowler 5 is an 80-foot Super Cruiser equipped with bunks; stand-up rods and a large cabin, according to the Prowler 5 Web site.

The Prowler 5 sails for tuna in the canyons every Monday and Wednesday beginning Sept. 8 for the 2010 season and sailing through October. Fifteen overnight tuna trips will be offered in 2010. The trips include breakfast, but bring lunch along with snacks, pillows, blanket and rain gear. There is no hard liquor allowed at all, but beer is fine on the return trip.

The crew will bleed, collar and store fish in ice holds ,and anglers can keep all the fish caught as long as it is within the legal limits.. A fillet service is available on after the return trip.

Prowler 5

P.O. Box 224

Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716

732-667-9064

Tags: Point Pleasant, fishing tuna, tuna fishing, below deck, Deep-sea fishing, Deep-sea fishing tuna

What Are Compression Shirts

If you enjoy working out, running or just playing sports in general, you have probably been introduced to or have heard of compression shirts. These types of shirts can be found at most general athletic stores and online, and are useful to not only athletes, but to anyone who want a different look. Does this Spark an idea?

Basics

The compression shirt serves the purpose of being tight-fitting and is made of spandex or another type of stretchy material. The shirt is extremely breathable and is normally worn under a sports jersey or uniform. It is sometimes worn without a uniform top for workouts.

Function

Compression shirts help draw moisture away from the body, keeping the athlete cooler and drier. It can also reduce muscle and body fatigue while preventing chafing. Compression shirts can keep the body a little warmer than the atmosphere's temperature to prevent injury to the joints and muscles.

Other Uses

Some other essential functions of compression shirts include comforting people with medical conditions. You can go to a specialty supplier and get custom-made compression shirts if you have excessive body weight or suffer from gynecomastia (the condition of enlarged breast tissue in males). Compression shirts are also used by people who are recovering from liposuction or cosmetic surgery and for people who desire to slim up bulges in their physique.

Carriers of Compression Shirts

Mainstream companies that carry compression shirts include Underworks, Morris Designs, NouVelle Compression Garments, Advanced Bio-Technologies, Enell, Wear-With-All, Sweat It Out and Underarmour. The brand Underarmour, based out of Baltimore, is one of the most recognizable brands of compression shirts used by athletes. Underarmour's design is not for people with gynecomastia, even though some males with a small chest have found these shirts to be effective for binding purposes. Underarmour's shirts are flexible, breathable and comfortable for the playing field.

Types

Not only do compression shirts come as a long-sleeve shirt that can comfort an athlete in his uniform, but you can find compression tank tops, turtle-necks and short-sleeve shirts, and there are even compression shorts available.

Tags: compression shirts, Compression shirts, compression shirts include, people with, shirts include

What Is Comparable To Under Armour

Kevin Plank, CEO of Under Armour, designed his shirts to keep the athlete dry and comfortable. As Plank's business grew other sportswear outfitters, i.e. Nike, began to incorporate the moisture wicking technology into their line of clothing. Does this Spark an idea?

Why We Choose Under Armour

Under Armour's line of clothing wicks sweat off the body through the top layer of fibers in the shirt, which allows the air to immediately dry the moisture. The fabric does not absorb the moisture, it transfers it.

In the Heat and In the Cold

Under Armour headquarters coins their heat gear as "the original second skin layer."

Under Armour's Cold Gear, optimal for use in outdoor temperatures of 55 degrees and lower, uses a double layer technology to not only keeps you dry, but warm.

Alternatives to Under Armour

Nike is the next leading company in moisture wicking sportswear. The Nike Line of clothing using the moisture wicking technology in four forms. Nike Dri-Fit, Nike Clima-Fit, Nike Therma-Fit, and Nike Storm-Fit. Nike's "Under Armour" comparable design also boasts styles in the same ergonomic slim fit. Flattering to both the male and female body.

Cost Differences

As of early 2010:

Nike Pro-Core Fitted Men's Training Shirt: $25.00.

Nike Pro Thermal Cold Weather Men's Shirt: $55.00.

Under Armour Men's Cold Gear Tactical Mock:$49.99

Under Armour Men's TNP T-Shirt: $24.99

Shop

Although Under Armour holds claim to the first to break through with technology for moisture wicking in hot and cold weather, Nike has a full line of clothing claiming all the same benefits.

Tags: Under Armour, moisture wicking, Armour Cold, Armour Cold Gear, Cold Gear, line clothing

What Type Of Paint Is Used In Paintball

Paintball is a sport of growing popularity. It's a great way to get some exercise while spending time with friends. Some companies have even started using paintball as a team-building exercise. Many newbies to the sport have one important question: Just what, exactly, am I splattering all over myself and my friends?

It's Not Really Paint

At least, it's not the paint we put on our houses, cars and canvases. Paint is usually a coloring agent suspended in some sort of glue or resin, which sticks the color to a surface. Those glues and resins (and sometimes the agents) often carry toxic or polluting chemicals--the last thing we want to be spraying around in the woods or on the field.

The Skin

A paintball is like a grape: a thin outer coating filled with juice. This coating is made of biodegradable gelatin, much like the outer coating of a gel capsule pill.

The Juice

The filling for a paintball is a mixture of liquid and coloring agent. The liquid is usually a nontoxic oil like vegetable oil or cod liver oil. Most of the time, the coloring agent is simple food dye.

Premium Dyes

Some folks like to use glow-in-the-dark dyes, scented dyes or other fancy dyes. Though they aren't food coloring, manufacturers take care to make sure these fillings are no more harmful than the regular colored dyes.

Dealing With Stains

Most paintball filling will wash out with your regular laundry, though some residue might be visible on highly contrasting shirts (such as yellow paint on black clothes or red paint on white).

Tags: coloring agent, outer coating

The Best Ways To Wear Curly Hair To A Dance

Many girls curl their hair for special occasions, such as proms and other dances. However, having curly hair is only half the challenge. The other half is styling your curls. There are a variety of ways to style curly hair, but three styles in particular are ideal for dances. Does this Spark an idea?

The Classic Up-do

Sweep all your curls atop your head in a classic up-do, a traditional hairdo for a dance. A classic up-do is an elegant hairstyle that will keep get your mane of curls off your face and keep you cool while you dance. This style is relatively easy to create. Simply pull your curls into a ponytail positioned at the top of the back of your head. Separate the ponytail into strands and pin them under to create a curly bun or chignon. Allow a few loose ringlets to frame your neck and face if you wish.

Loose and Flowing

Wear your hair loose and flowing for a wild look perfect for a dance. Wearing your hair down will ensure that you can dance in a completely carefree way, with no worries about destroying your perfect hairstyle. If you're going to wear you hair down, make sure you style your curls with flexible-hold hair-care products designed to keep your curls pretty and bouncy while in motion. Wash your hair as usual, apply flexible-hold styling products to damp curls, then scrunch them and allow them to dry. Toss or shake your curls to give them a stylishly ruffled, untamed look, and mist them with hairspray.

Tags: your curls, your hair, classic up-do, curly hair, hair down, keep your, your head

The Effects Of Running At Altitude

Running at altitude has many effects on the body.

Running at altitudes of 6,500 feet and higher causes a variety of different effects in the body. It is much more physically demanding on the body than running at sea level; while it can result in faster running times and an increased performance, it can also cause a loss of muscle mass, an increase in red blood cells and a faster heart rate.

Red Blood Cells

Training at a high altitude increases the red blood cell count in the body which enables the body to more efficiently and quickly carry oxygen around the body. This red cell count stays higher for a few days, even after returning to sea level, and can result in a significant speed advantage over those who haven't trained at altitude. This can be seen in the 1968 Mexico Olympics where athletes who had previously set records in running events over 800m were beaten by athletes native to high altitudes.

Oxygen Intake

When running at altitude you will notice it is harder to breathe. This is because the air is thinner at higher altitudes and contains less oxygen, so you aren't able to effectively replenish your blood with oxygen as you would at a lower elevation. This lack of oxygen results in you breathing harder and faster than normal. However, the increased breathing, or hyperventilation, does decrease the carbon monoxide in the blood which causes a higher blood pH and helps counteract lactic acid-induced fatigue which means your muscles won't tire as quickly.

Weight Loss

Running at a high altitude changes the body composition. A study has shown that runners living at altitudes higher than 4,500 feet lose around 100 to 200g of muscle mass a day. One reason for this is that your metabolism increases when you are at altitude which results in weight loss. To avoid this, a diet based on at least 60 percent carbohydrates is recommended. Some of this weight loss can also be attributed to dehydration, so runners need to make sure they stay adequately hydrated.

Heart rate

Running at a high altitude decreases atmospheric pressure on the human body which results in decreased oxygen diffusion through the lungs and into the bloodstream. The body compensates for this decreased oxygen with a faster heart rate and this increase in heart rate pushes the blood more quickly around the body. This in turn distributes oxygen to tissues in need much faster, however, as the body acclimatizes to the high altitude the heart rate will return to normal.

Tags: high altitude, heart rate, around body, around body This, body This

U S Marine Corp History

U.S. Marine Corp History

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) is an elite military organization that enjoys a high esprit de corps. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the marines take pride in their history and traditions. Tracing their origins to the Continental Marines of the Revolutionary War, for more than two centuries American marines have seen almost continuous action around the world in engagements great and small.

Revolutionary Precursor

The precursors of the USMC are the Continental Marines. These were formed by a November 1775 order of the Continental Congress that two battalions of marines should be raised for naval combat duties. Marines regard November 10, 1775 as the Corps's birthday, but these marines were disbanded along with the Continental Navy in 1783.

The Re-Establishment of the Marines

The War Department of the new United States government first began enlisting individual marines for service aboard U.S. Navy warships in 1794, with the marines being formally established by Act of Congress in 1798. The new U.S. marines soon found themselves engaged in combat during the First Barbary War of 1801 to 1805. It was during this conflict that the marines attacked Tripoli, an engagement that has been made immortal in the Marine Corps Hymn. The marine nickname of "leatherneck" also stems from this period. According to legend, the marines wore thick leather stocks around their necks to protect them from decapitation by Barbary scimitars, but the leather stock was actually a popular fashion item for military uniforms at the time. It was therefore likely that the leather stocks were just a normal part of the marine's kit. Marines also took part in the famous frigate actions of the U.S. Navy during the War of 1812, as well as the fighting at Bladensburg and the Battle of New Orleans.

Mid-to-Late 19th Century Actions

President Andrew Jackson attempted to abolish the marines by folding them into the US Army, but Congress blocked this and instead placed the marines formally under the jurisdiction of the Navy Department. Marines participated in both the 1835 Seminole War and the 1846 Mexican War. The latter contributed the "Halls of Montezuma" to the Marine Corps Hymn. However, the marines played little part in even the amphibious operations of the Civil War. In the late 19th century, the marines were involved in more than two dozen separate interventions and actions in Central and South America, culminating in leading U.S. Army forces ashore in the 1898 Spanish-American War in both Cuba and the Philippines.

World War One

The U.S. marines continued to be the light expeditionary force of choice for the United States in the early 20th century. They saw action against guerrillas in the Philippines and Cuba, in the Boxer Rebellion in China, in Central and South America again and in Morocco. When the United States entered World War One, the marines were seasoned combat veterans, and unlike the Army were not radically expanded in a massive mobilization. The result was that they were a small, but crack outfit that gained the respect of their enemies. The fought a major battle at Belleau Wood in 1918, and earned the nickname "Devil Dogs" from the Germans, who regarded the marines as the equal of their own elite stormtroopers.

World War Two

USMC Commandant John Lejeune led the Corps to develop amphibious assault techniques between the two World Wars, which ultimately became the Corps's bread and butter. During the war, the USMC expanded to almost a strength of almost half a million men (including its own air force), and became the primary ground force of the Pacific War. However, the marines saw no combat in Europe. After the war, the USMC saw the second major effort to abolish the Corps and fold it up into the U.S. Army, but this too was defeated. By 1952, the USMC was established by law as an organization with three divisions, and its Commandant was given an equal footing with the other Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Korea and Vietnam

Marines were heavily engaged in the early efforts to stop and throw back the 1950 North Korean invasion of South Korea. Their amphibious assault at Inchon turned the Communist flank and resulted in the collapse and retreat of their army. The Marines were thereafter involved in combat operations until the end of the war in 1953, once again expanding in size from a strength of about 75,000 to 261,000. In a practice that would become standard for the USMC, they got around the limitations of their three division establishment by making those three divisions much bigger. They also fought in Vietnam, with famous battles like Hue and Khe Sanh being USMC operations.

Recent Years

The USMC has been involved in every major American military operation since the Vietnam War. It was the marines who were sent on a peacekeeping mission to Lebanon in 1983, and were truck bombed there. Marines were involved in the invasions of Grenada and Panama, the Persian Gulf War, the initial security and relief operations in Somalia, the Iraq War and the Afghan War.

Tags: United States, Marine Corps, marines were, amphibious assault, Central South, Central South America

The Most Effective Ways To Get A Girlfriend Back

Get your girlfriend back using effective methods to change her mind about you.

Pining over your lost love does no good. It's time to take action. If your recent breakup feels like a mistake and you want to win back your ex-girlfriend, then it's going to take some work. Rarely do these types of situations fix themselves. Several effective methods can get you back on the right track with your ex, but keep in mind that all of them may not be right for your situation. It depends on your specific personality and situation.

Ignore Her

It doesn't seem logical that ignoring your ex-girlfriend will win her over, but it's not a bad start. The last thing you want to do is appear too distraught and depressed over your loss. The truth is, women don't want to be with men who are a wreck, typically. Instead, it is better to pretend like she is not a factor in your life, at least for now. She probably expects you to be upset, especially if she dumped you suddenly, so seeing you going about your life and not paying her any attention at all will only make her question her importance to you. Perhaps it will even convince her to approach you to find out why. Once you have accomplished this feat, you have begun to turn the tables on her. This may seem like you're playing games with her head. That's because you are. If you aren't looking to be a player in this kind of game, this is not the technique for you. Still, it is an effective one.

The New Girl

Start hanging out with a new female if you really want to grab the attention of your ex. You don't have to be in an intimate relationship with her. You may just be friends who like to chat and go to dinner with no other expectations. That's great, but there's no reason your ex needs to know that this isn't her replacement. No matter how much she wanted to get rid of you when you broke up, seeing you're with another woman will naturally make her jealous. Again, this is a mind game and it is not for everyone, but it is effective. Often a new romantic relationship that truly is a sign of you moving on to better things can be interrupted by the sudden appearance of your ex, even if you aren't interested in getting back together. Jealousy is a powerful motivator.

Let Her See You've Changed

If you want to take the high road in winning back your girlfriend, especially when you know that you screwed it up, you're going to have to convince her that you've changed the causal behavior. You must know what you did to start the process of the break up, so do whatever you have to do to prove to her that you have honestly dealt with the issue and that it will never happen again. It seems like an obvious solution, but it is a difficult one to succeed in. Still, if you are able to make your case effectively, it has the best chance for working out in the long run.

Don't Go Off the Rails

Live your life. Set goals and work to accomplish them. Be productive and do not play the victim. If you are confident and continue your life without breaking down into a weeping mess at the drop of a hat, you will appear strong and attractive to your ex when she sees you in this light. Of course, you'll also attract other women as well.

Tags: your life, back your, effective methods, know that, over your

What Human Medicine Give To My Dog

Dogs suffer from many of the most common human ailments---pain, allergies, diarrhea, constipation---and their symptoms can sometimes be treated with the same over-the-counter medications. According to the veterinarian-owned website www.PetEducation.com, some medications for humans are safe for dogs in certain dosages. Confirm all treatments with your veterinarian.

Buffered Aspirin

For pain or fever, give dogs buffered aspirin. Give 5 to 12 mg per pound every twelve hours. Use buffered aspirin only and do not give acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Benadryl®

Benadryl® can be used for allergic reactions in dogs. An itchy, sneezing dog can take 1 to 2 mg per pound every eight hours. It may make him drowsy.

Kaopectate®

Kaopectate® can be used to control diarrhea. Give 1 ml per pound of body weight every six hours but be aware that prolonged use can cause constipation.

Pepto-Bismol®

Pepto-Bismol® can also treat diarrhea. Give 1 ml per 10 pounds every eight hours.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean wounds and induce vomiting. Check with your veterinarian before inducing vomiting; some toxins should not be treated this way.

Dramamine®

If your dog is prone to car sickness, you can give her Dramamine. Give her 2 to 4 mg/pound 30 minutes before the trip. It may cause drowsiness and dry mouth.

Tags: Give pound, buffered aspirin, diarrhea Give, eight hours, every eight, every eight hours

The Best Way To Fertilize Lawns

Lush green lawns are what just about every homeowner yearns for -- a place to walk with bare feet, have picnics on and play catch. With so many people aiming for the same thing, you can find plenty of wisdom for producing just such a lawn. Any lawn's success depends on the health of the soil in which it is growing. Sure, nutrients exist in the soil, but since grass grows on the top layer and rain washes nutrients further into the soil, the grass can be left lacking in fertilizer. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take a soil sample from six or seven places around the lawn, getting the soil down to about 4 inches. Combine all the samples in one bucket and stir them up with a wooden stick. Use a soil testing kit to find out what your existing ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are in the soil. Send the sample in to the address on the kit or check with your extension office to see what it recommends.

2. Use the results from your soil test to get the fertilizer ratio that you need specifically for your lawn. Look at the numbers to see what is low, like maybe nitrogen since it is leached out of the soil quickly, in which case you look for a fertilizer ratio where the first number is as high as 21 and the other two are zero. Ask for help from the office that conducted the test if you are not sure interpret your readings.

3. Apply the complete fertilizer in the late summer or early fall so the soil has time to incorporate specifically the potassium and phosphorus while the grass plant is almost dormant, and even then, only every couple of years so you don't contribute to excess phosphorus in the water supply. Pick a cool day if possible and right before a rainfall, or plan to give the lawn a good watering.

4. Supplement the full panel fertilizer with applications of nitrogen in May or June when the growth is thick and fast, then again in August to replenish the soil and one last time in October. Leave the grass clippings on the lawn to add a constant supply of nitrogen. Use only enough nitrogen for the size of your lawn, following the directions on the packaging.

Tags: fertilizer ratio, your lawn

The Mptp Model Of Parkinson'S Disease

The MPTP Model of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease occurs with damage to the substantia nigra in the brain, interfering with production of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Neurotransmitters are chemical substances that carry impulses (messages) between neurons (nerve cells), and a decrease in dopamine impairs transmission of impulses to motor nerves related to movement, resulting in tremors and impaired mobility. MPTP (methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine) is a drug that can cause a form of Parkinson's disease.

MPPP to MPTP

According to the medical website My Doctor, MPTP is chemically similar to the illicit street drug MPPP, and if a batch of MPPP becomes contaminated or is improperly manufactured, MPTP can result. When MPTP is metabolized (broken down) in the body, it converts to a neurotoxin, which is a potent poison that targets neurons. In this case, MPTP specifically targets dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra.

Symptoms

As MPTP damages the neurons, dopamine levels fall, and the person begins to exhibit the same symptoms as those with idiopathic (cause unknown) Parkinson's disease: tremors, muscle rigidity, slow movement, unstable gait, depression and sometimes increasing cognitive impairment and dementia. The face muscles may be relatively immobile, giving a masklike appearance

Differences

MPTP Parkinson's disease presents differently than ideopathic Parkinson's, which usually manifests slowly over a period of years. MPTP causes rapid damage to the neurons because of the neurotoxin, so onset of symptoms may be within days. Additionally, ideopathic Parkinson's disease usually occurs in those 60 or older, while MPTP Parkinson's affects much younger drug users, many in their 20s.

Treatment

Treatment for MPTP Parkinson's disease is the same as for ideopathic Parkinson's disease. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, treatment includes anticholinergic drugs to decrease tremors. Levodopa increases dopamine levels while dopamine agonists mimic dopamine, with both types of drugs improving mobility because they improve transmission of impulses through motor neurons. Other drugs include antidepressants for depression, MAO-inhibitors to prevent the breakdown of dopamine and the antiviral drug amantadine (Symmetrol), usually given with other drugs to reduce involuntary muscle twitching.

Considerations

While symptoms from some forms of drug-induced (haloperidol, chlorpromazine) Parkinson's disease are reversible, the damage to the brain is permanent with MPTP. Other neurotoxins that can cause permanent damage include carbon monoxide, manganese dust and carbon disulfide.

Tags: ideopathic Parkinson, MPTP Parkinson, Parkinson disease, Parkinson disease, dopamine levels

What Foods Convert Into Energy Fast

Healthy foods are packed with energy-boosting nutrients

You need energy and you need it fast. What do you have to eat? Availability often determines our choices. A little preparation goes a long way in healthy eating. Boost your energy level and overall health by feeding your body a constant supply of whole foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Make it as easy to choose cut-up veggies or fruit as it is to grab a bag of chips. Your effort will give a healthy return: a balanced diet will provide you with more energy, mental clarity and stamina.

Carbohydrates

Carbs are the body's preferred form of fuel because they can be quickly converted to glucose for energy. There are two groups of carbohydrates, simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates are found in many cereals, snack foods, soft drinks, crackers, breads and even pasta. They are processed by the body quickly which means you will have a boost of energy soon after eating; however, it will only last for a short time, followed by a crash. For longer-lasting energy choose complex carbohydrates such as potatoes, rice and whole grains.

Powerful Combinations

Eat protein along with the carbohydrates to slow down the rate at which your body absorbs them. Hummus with veggies on a whole-grain wrap; yogurt with nuts and berries or low-fat turkey, cheese, and pear on whole-grain crackers are great choices for a boost of energy. Don't include too many fats, which can make you feel sluggish. Enhance nutritional value of certain foods by combining them, like broccoli and turmeric. Mixed meals with protein, complex carbohydrates and a small amount of healthy fats are the foundation for an energizing diet.

Frequency

Eat six smaller meals, or three down-sized meals with three snacks. This will keep your energy level balanced throughout the day. Watch your portion sizes. Favor fresh vegetables and fruits. Get creative with dips of salsa, yogurt, melted cheese and hummus. Focus on adding healthy foods to your diet rather than banning old favorites. Health food author and fitness trainer Jillian Michels' list of healthiest foods includes berries, bananas, beans, cucumbers, cantaloupe, strawberries, mango, spinach, salmon, nuts, oats, whole grains, pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate. The food you put into your body determines the energy that your body will put out.

Tags: your body, whole grains, boost energy, complex carbohydrates, energy level, fresh vegetables, fresh vegetables fruits

Weight Gain Meal Plan For Women

Weight loss supplements, plans, guides, and gurus are all over the media, providing no shortage of info on how get rid of unwanted pounds. Conversely, a small percentage of the population would gladly take those extra pounds, as the additional weight gain would improve possible health deficiencies and self esteem. For underweight women (and men as well), it's an uphill battle not unlike the one faced by overweight women.

The Problem

The problem with gaining weight is usually an issue of high metabolism, although illness or body type can be culprits as well. Regardless, the approach for achieving a healthy weight remains the same: it's all about food choice.

Not being able to gain weight isn't an excuse to eat whatever one likes; just because a person can quickly metabolize fat around the waistline doesn't mean they can metabolize artery-clogging fat. Planning food choices means choosing the right macronutrient content: there are four calories per every gram of protein and carbohydrate and nine per every gram of fat, so meals should contain foods high in these nutrients.

The Solution

High metabolism is the bane of those whoh want to gain weight, so the idea is to overload it and slow it down. This can be done by consuming more daily calories than the body can burn, which generally means an extra 500 to 1,000 calories every day. As stated before, this doesn't mean taking the unhealthy path. Cold water fish such as mackerel, halibut, cod, and salmon are high in healthy fats (thus calories) as well as protein. High calorie and heart friendly olive oil can be used in lieu of vegetable or canola to lightly fry food, while veggies like avocados are fattening and flavorful. Nuts and seeds are an excellent source of energy.

Sample Meals & Exercise Tips

Since the idea of eating to gain weight is based pn consuming plenty of calories, three to five meals should be consumed daily with regular snacks. A sample meal plan would feature a portion of lightly fried halibut (in olive oil), a baked sweet potato, two or three slices of whole grain bread, and some pudding or frozen yogurt for dessert. A meal such as this provides ample calories for this meal by providing enough macronutrients like fats, protein, and carbohydrates. It should also be said that exercise plays an important part in weight gain just as much as weight loss. Besides eating properly, fewer cardio exercises and more strength exercises promote the building of lean muscle mass, and since lean muscle weighs twice as much as body fat but takes up half the space, healthy weight gain can be attained without contributing to any body fat additions.

Tags: gain weight, calories every, doesn mean, every gram, healthy weight

Timex Battery Replacement Instructions

Watch batteries are meant to last for many years, but at some point you will have to replace the battery in your Timex watch. Standard replacement batteries can be purchased at many electronics and jewelry stores. The type of battery the Timex needs is found in the watch's owner's manual, or by simply looking at the markings on the old battery. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Flip the watch upside down so it is lying face down and the back is pointing upwards.

2. Locate the screws securing the back plate and use a jeweler's screwdriver to remove the screws and pull off the back plate.

3. Locate the battery. The battery is round, shiny and the size of a small coin. If there is a sticker covering the battery, remove it. Be sure to read the sticker first, as it will have important information on the type and installation orientation of the battery.

4. Pull out the battery by prying it out of its slot. If there are screws securing the battery, remove these first.

5. Read the model number and size of the battery to know what kind of replacement to purchase.

6. Insert the new battery into the old slot. Be sure to insert it in the same orientation. If the positive side was up on the old one, insert the positive side up on the new one.

7. Reattach the back plate using the screws.

Tags: back plate, battery remove, positive side, screws securing, will have

The Effects Of Performanceenhancing Drugs On Teenagers

Teenagers decide to take performance-enhancing drugs thinking they will improve their sports' performance, improve their looks and add more muscle. According to Mayo Clinic, teens use three primary performance-enhancing drugs and supplements: creatine, anabolic steroids and steroid precursors. In a quest for the perfect body and improved fitness, teens may not realize how much they are harming their bodies, or the long-term negative side effects these products cause.

Creatine

Creatine is a chemical naturally made in the liver, kidneys and pancreas; it also naturally occurs in foods like fish and meat. Body builders and athletes often take this performance-enhancing drug in an attempt to gain more muscle mass. Mayo Clinic says side effects include weight gain, nausea, muscle cramps and kidney disease. Creatine also interacts with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen, caffeine and diuretics, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones used to improve the body's ability to produce muscle and inhibit muscle breakdown. KidsHealth reports teens take anabolic steroids hoping to run faster, lift heavier weights and have more endurance. Anabolic steroids, though, are illegal substances if not taken with a prescription. Teens using anabolic steroids may experience stunted growth, liver tumors, enlarged hearts, acne, male breasts, hair loss and male-pattern baldness, and muscle aches. Teen girls may start growing body hair, experience male-pattern baldness and a deepening voice.

Steroid Precursors

The body converts steroid precursors into anabolic steroids, and they include androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone. The Food and Drug Administration says steroid precursors are marketed as dietary supplements that give the same results as anabolic steroids, building muscle and enhancing performance. Mayo Clinic says most steroid precursors are illegal without a prescription; however, precursors such as DHEA are available over the counter. These performance-enhancing drugs have similar side effects as anabolic steroids, including enlarged breasts, shrinking testicles and male-pattern baldness. The FDA indicates that females experience abnormal periods, blood clots, facial hair, deep voices and enlarged clitorises.

Other Risks of Taking Drugs

Besides the physical effects of taking performance-enhancing drugs, teen athletes can jeopardize their high-school sports careers. Teens who fail drug tests could get expelled from the team, face jail time, pay fines, and forfeit trophies and medals. Kids may have to enter drug rehabilitation centers if they have taken these drugs for a long time. Instead of taking illegal substances that affect their bodies and sports career, teens should focus on eating foods that naturally enhance muscle growth, such as lean protein.

Tags: anabolic steroids, performance-enhancing drugs, male-pattern baldness, Mayo Clinic, side effects, steroid precursors

The Best Walking Shoes For Racing

Walking has been turned into a racing sport known as racewalking. Just like a running race, racewalking requires a specific shoe to prevent injuries and to add the most comfort to your foot. A good racewalking shoe has many qualities that can be provided from a running shoe, but it is important to note that not all running shoes are appropriate for racewalking. On the other hand, some running shoes make the perfect racewalking shoes.

Requirements

The best walking shoes for racing are lightweight and flexible like running shoes. AceWalker.com says that they should also be roomy in the toe area and bend with your foot around the front part of the foot rather than the middle. That's because your feet tend to swell when walking and you use your toes to push off the ground in racewalking. When you buy walking shoes for racing, they should be a full size bigger than your regular shoe size. Otherwise, make sure that you have a thumbs width of space from the front of your shoe to the end of your longest toes.

Your walking shoes for racing should also provide allover cushioning and stability. The cushioning adds comfort and helps stabilize the foot; the added stability makes it less likely that you will roll your foot while racewalking. While some running shoes meet these requirements, some do not because they provide too much cushioning in the heel area and not enough side stability.

Walking Shoes

There are several walking shoes that are perfect for racewalking. Prevention.com recommends the Asics Gel -- Kayano Walker 7 because they provide proper cushioning and stability for walkers. New Balance also has a large selection of walking shoes. The New Balance MW1200WN is another good choice because of its stability and cushioning. (The links listed under Resources have more information on these shoes.)

Running Shoes

According to AceWalker.com, certain running shoes make great racewalking shoes, too. One is the Asics Gel Lyte Verdict because they are lightweight and flexible, which are requirements for good walking shoes. You can find reviews of other good running shoes for racewalking at RunnersWorld.com.

Replacing Shoes

Prevention.com recommends that you replace your walking shoes every 300 to 500 miles to prevent injury. In addition, Racewalk.com recommends training with two pairs of shoes to prevent your shoes from wearing out too fast and to better protect your feet from blisters and bunions. Two pairs of shoes will also keep you from having to train in wet shoes from the day before.

Additional Tip

Racewalk.com recommends that you should only wear your shoes when you are working out. Additional wearing can cause the shoes to wear out faster and leave you searching for the perfect pair of racewalking shoes more often.

Tags: running shoes, walking shoes, because they, racewalking shoes, shoes racing, walking shoes racing, your foot

Three Ways To Communicate Diversity

Communicating diversity increases collaboration and creativity.

Communicating diversity in the workplace can increase creativity, reduce barriers and encourage collaboration in spite of differences. Common diversity issues include language, culture, race, ethnicity, gender, age, family status, disability and sexual orientation. However, diversity can also include psychological processes. Personalities, communication preferences and attitudes toward the same idea or project can hinder creativity and erect barriers. Understanding communicate diversity can improve group problem solving.

The Purpose of Communicating Diversity

Rather than suppress, ignore or tolerate differences, openly discussing diversity issues can relieve discrimination, prejudice or hostile work environments. The purpose of communicating diversity is to address all of these issues while establishing the framework for an inclusive, progressive and productive environment. Diversity can be communicated through assigning responsibility, promoting educational programs and progressive hiring practices.

Assigning Responsibility to Communicate Diversity

Enforcing policies, fostering a diverse management team and subscribing to equal employment opportunity standards are a few tools managers can use to communicate diversity. Responsibility in diversity communication focuses on recognizing differences but treating everyone with the same level of fairness and respect. Managers may also develop internal advocacy groups, incorporate work and family policies and conduct internal audits as routine diversity administrative duties. Holding people responsible for welcoming diversity, through policies and programs, demonstrates that differences are a valued commodity in an organization. This can motivate managers and employees to welcome and celebrate everyone's culture.

Communicating Diversity Through Education

Some organizations may have cultures that have not had exposure to educational programs or resources. Designing programs that promote leadership and education can empower non-traditional employees to do better at their jobs. Mentoring, cross training sessions and recognition programs are a few ways that managers can use educational development as a way to communicate diversity. The primary motivation of this method is to prepare underdeveloped employees for advanced roles and responsibilities as representatives of the organization.

Communicating Diversity Through Hiring Practices

Corporate advertisements can promote a diverse culture when used for recruiting staff. The images used in brochures and hiring representatives present at job fairs convey whether a company values women, younger professionals or ethnic diversity. For example, hiring managers who deliberately target historically black colleges or areas with a dense ethnic population communicate a value on diversity. The recruiting method for communicating diversity translates to both prospective candidates and also internal employees. As an illustration, when employees see their ethnicity representing the company publicly in recruiting materials, company publications and targeted partnerships, attitudes toward the organization become more favorable and productivity increases. The key to successful hiring to promote diversity communication is to represent inclusion at all levels, from C-level executives to administrators.

Tags: attitudes toward, communicate diversity, Communicating Diversity, communicating diversity, Communicating Diversity Through, diversity communication, diversity issues

Tips To Boost Your Energy In The First Trimester

Morning sickness can drain your energy in the first trimester.

Fatigue is one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy. Rising levels of progesterone, morning sickness and the myriad physical changes necessary to grow a baby can drain a newly pregnant woman of her energy. In "Belly Laughs," former MTV host Jenny McCarthy compared first trimester fatigue to "staying up all night, then running a marathon, then doing 300 loads of laundry and raking leaves off a football field all in one day." Pregnant women may not be able to completely avoid pregnancy-related fatigue, but adopting certain healthy habits can help increase your energy level during the first trimester.

Sleep

To combat early-pregnancy fatigue, sleep when you feel tired. Every extra half-hour of sleep you can squeeze in will help increase your energy level. If you find your sleep interrupted by trips to the bathroom, cut down on the amount of liquids you drink before bed and avoid caffeinated drinks, like coffee and tea, that make you urinate more often. Eat bananas for extra potassium to prevent painful leg cramps that can disturb your sleep. Purchase a maternity pillow to snuggle with if you have a hard time finding a comfortable sleeping position.

Eat Well

During pregnancy, you need an extra 300 calories per day. Getting these extra calories -- and others you consume -- from nutritious sources can improve your energy level. Focus on foods that provide nutrients you and your growing baby need, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and low-fat dairy. Consume 27 mg iron a day to prevent anemia. Eat small, frequent meals and drink enough water to keep energy-draining nausea at baby. Avoid junk food like candy, fried food and baked goods that can sap your energy.

Exercise

It might seem counterintuitive, but exercise can help keep your energy levels up. Choose activities that aren't too strenuous, like walking or yoga, or a take prenatal fitness class. Go for a relaxing swim, since the water's buoyancy makes it a very safe, low-impact activity. Exercise outdoors so the fresh air can energize you. If you don't have time for an actual workout, find ways to walk more throughout the day. Walk rather than drive short distances, park a good distance from a store's entrance and take the stairs rather than the elevator.

Relax

Stress drains energy, so finding ways to relax can help you feel more energetic. Limit unnecessary obligations, or even the time you spend on chores like housekeeping and grocery shopping, so you have time to spend doing things you enjoy. Get a massage, soak in a bubble bath, have your nails done or take a vacation. Worry is a normal part of pregnancy, whether it is about the baby's health, impending parenthood or the prospect of giving birth. Talk to someone you trust -- your partner, a friend or a therapist -- before these anxieties overwhelm you.

Tags: your energy, energy level, first trimester, your energy level, extra calories

Why Drink Water

Drinking water is vital to human health. More than half the human body weight is composed of water. Humans can go about a month without food, but would only survive a week without water. To be fully hydrated, it is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water or day, or to drink half an ounce per pound of body weight. There are many benefits associated with drinking water.

Fights Aliments

The human brain is composed of 85 percent water. By drinking water regularly, it keeps the brain running smoothly. Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, a main component in developing headaches, migraines, fatigue, drowsiness and depression. Drinking enough water also decreases the risk for heart disease and cancer. Muscles also are composed of 75 percent water. Back pain and muscle spasms may also be caused by not being sufficiently hydrated.

Promotes Weight Loss

Drinking water can help deter overeating and promote weight loss. Thirst and hunger feelings are interconnected. The body can mistake dehydration for hunger causing one to eat when she is really craving liquid. Drinking water before meals can help reduce the intake of food. Chemical reactions in the body rely on water. Water flushes out byproducts of fat decomposition and helps to dilute the body's waste. When there is not enough water, the kidneys may not work efficiently and the liver has to step in to provide assistance. When this happens, the liver puts fat burning on hold.

Hydrates Skin

When the skin is hydrated appropriately, it looks more healthy. Water allows the toxins to be flushed out and keeps you cool through perspiration. Water manages the skin's natural balance. When water is warm, it has the ability to hydrate, regenerate, detoxify and aerate the skin. Warm water also helps eliminate blackheads and decreases the size of pores. Muscles require water to make them look healthy as well. You'll likely notice a change in your appearance if you deprive yourself of water.

Controls Body Temperature

Water assists in regulating body temperature, especially during physical activity. When you perform physical activities, you lose water through your breath and perspiration. As the perspiration evaporates, the body cools down. Keeping hydrated during physical activity provides optimal physical performance and good health. With too much water loss, one is prone to developing heat exhaustion. Before exercising, drink a glass of water. For every 20 minutes of physical activity drink at least one cup. After exercising, drink at least one cup.

Eliminates Toxins

The role of the kidneys is to eliminate waste from the human body. Kidneys assist in flushing out various toxins such as uric acid and lactic acid out of the blood. These toxins are responsible for causing people to feel lethargic. Blood is composed of mostly water and aids in dispersing, processing, and conveying nutrients to cells, and removing waste materials. Drinking enough water eases the burden on your kidneys and other body parts, and keeps the human body free of toxins.

Tags: enough water, drink least, human body, physical activity, body weight, composed percent, composed percent water

Top 10 Country Western Line Dances

These boots were made for dancing.

People perform line dances in rows, all facing the same direction. The dancers execute the same sequence of steps without any physical contact. The dances usually use Country Western music, but also share similarities with folk dancing. Although no official list of the top line dances exists, 38 Step, a blog dedicated to line dancing, frequently updates lists of its users' top 25 dances. This article uses the dances chosen in March 2010.

Good Time

Good Time, a 40-count and four-wall line dance, ranks No. 1, according to 38 Step. Director Trey Fanjoy asked Jenny Cain to choreograph Alan Johnson's song of the same name to create a video of the world's longest line dance, using over 200 people.

Toes

The line dance Toes, choreographed by Rachael McEnaney, uses the song "Toes" by the Zac Brown Band. The dance, designed for beginners, has a 32 count and four walls.

Casanova Cowboy

Casanova Cowboy, a beginner line dance created in October 2009, has a 32 count and uses four walls. It is danced to the music "Cowboy Casanova" by Carrie Underwood with choreography by Rob Fowler.

Copperhead Road

Copperhead Road is defined as a classic line dance of unknown origin and uses a song of the same name by Steve Earl. It is a 24-count beginners' line dance.

Tush Push

The classic line dance Tush Push" is suitable for intermediate dancers with a 40 count and four walls. Choreographed by Jim Ferrazzano, it can be danced to songs such as "Born to Boogie" by Hank Williams Jr. or "What I Was Thinking" by Dierks Bentley.

Tailgating

Tailgating or Found Tailgating has a 32 count and uses four walls. Choreographed by James "Jimbo" Krywko and J-Team Dancers for beginner and intermediate dancers, it can use the song "Cotton Eyed Joe" by the Rednex, played at 144 bpm.

Chill Factor

The well-known line dance Chill Factor, choreographed by Daniel Whittaker and Hayley Westhead, suits intermediate dancers. It can use the music "Last Night" by Chris Anderson. The dance has a 48 count and uses four walls.

The Freeze

The Freeze, also known as Strokin', is by an unknown choreographer and has a 24 count with four walls. It uses music of the same name by Clarence Carter, and suits beginner dancers.

Electric Slide

The classic line dance Electric Slide received media attention in 2007 when the inventor, Richard Silver, accused dancers of copyright violations. According to CNET news, he claimed people were dancing the line dance incorrectly, and he asked for these videos to be removed from the Web.

Badonkadonk

Badonkadonk, a recently created line dance choreographed by Hot Pepper, has a 32 count and uses two walls. A West coast swing line dance for beginner and intermediate dancers, it uses the music "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk" by Trace Adkins.

Tags: line dance, four walls, count uses, intermediate dancers, classic line, classic line dance

Tricks To Keep Shoes From Rubbing Blisters

Painful blisters form from pressure and friction on the skin.

Blisters form when heat, moisture and friction from shoes and socks rubbing skin cause fluid to build up between your skin's layers. Blisters can be a minor irritation or so painful you have a hard time walking. You can prevent blisters by keeping your feet cool and dry, wearing well-fitting shoes that are broken in, and resting your feet when you feel a sore spot forming. Once you have a blister, you need to know some tricks to keep shoes from rubbing them.

Footwear

Wear flexible shoes with cushioned insoles and a lot of support. Wear thin, synthetic socks with reinforced heels and toes that stay in place and don't slide on your feet. Avoid cotton socks, which retain fluid and become abrasive when they get wet. Make sure that you have room to wiggle your toes and that there are no seams in the shoes and socks to cause friction.

Blister Treatment Products

Place bandages, pads or gauze over blisters and places that tend to rub against shoes. Many companies, including Dr. Scholl's, make a line of products designed to prevent blisters and to keep shoes from rubbing blisters that have already formed. Dr. Scholl's Blister Treatment is a thin, sterilized, flexible, water-resistant cushion used to cover blisters and keep shoes from rubbing. Moleskin is padding with a self-stick adhesive used to cover blisters and prevent friction. Dr. Scholl's Molefoam Padding has a layer of cotton and one of foam with self-stick adhesive to hold it in place, and it can be cut to any size.

Emergency Tricks

If you've developed a painful blister while hiking and you don't have blister treatment products available, you may have to resort to measures you would not otherwise take. Make a small cut in your shoe at the pressure point to relieve some of the friction. Rub petroleum jelly on your foot, apply baby oil or sprinkle on some talcum powder. Cover the blister with a bandage, piece of duct tape or a piece of transparent tape.

Tags: from rubbing, shoes from rubbing, your feet, Blister Treatment, blisters keep, blisters keep shoes, cover blisters

Tips To Improve Mental Toughness In Basketball

In many cases, mental toughness separates basketball stars from regular players.

Being one of the best basketball players in a league requires more than just a strong skill set. The greatest players take their team's most important shots in almost every instance. Players who can consistently perform at a high level in pressure-packed games generally possess a level of mental toughness that separates them from the rest of the players in their league.

Practice the Situation

Coaches and players cannot duplicate the atmosphere of a last-second play executed in front of thousands of fans with the game on the line. They can, however, practice the plays the coach believes would be the most effective in that situation. By simulating the situation and allowing the players to work on executing the plays properly, a coach can instill confidence and mental toughness in his players even without a large crowd of people looking on. Some coaches will find ways to better recreate a big-game situation, like recording crowd noise and playing it through the gym while his players shoot free throws. It may not replicate real game conditions, but it gives players a glimpse of what they'll face in a packed building.

Forget Mistakes

When a player mistakenly throws the ball out of bounds or gives up to the other team, the play is referred to as a turnover. These mistakes happen regularly at all levels of organized basketball. For those who lack mental toughness, a turnover can have a negative impact on the psyche, leading to unfocused play and even more mistakes on the court. A player looking to improve mental toughness needs to forget about turnovers or other on-court mistakes as quickly as possible. Positive reinforcement from teammates and coaches can help in this regard, with an emphasis on playing well the rest of the game rather than dwelling on a turnover that cannot be taken back.

Study the Opposition

Where talent and confidence may be lacking, a player can compensate by increasing his knowledge base. The most successful athletes usually have an intimate knowledge of their sport, and more importantly, their opponents. Players should look to gain an edge by watching games featuring future opponents, either on video or in person. Taking notes is essential, as is focusing on the team's strengths and weaknesses. The more a team knows about its opposition, the better prepared it will be to neutralize its strengths and exploit its weaknesses. Learning an opposing team's plan of attack is an effective way to instill confidence and mental toughness in a group of players.

Tags: mental toughness, confidence mental, confidence mental toughness, instill confidence, instill confidence mental

The Best Way To Lose Weight After Baby

Your doctor may have recommended that you gain 25 to 35 pounds during your pregnancy, and you may have taken a bit of creative liberty with that number. What she didn't tell you was get that off after baby was born. While the few extra pounds that most new moms carry are troublesome, remember that you have a brand-new baby to care for, so avoid "crash" or "fad" diets. Not only does he not care if you're 20 pounds overweight, he needs you in tip-top condition to receive proper care.

Time

You may have returned home from the hospital wondering how you could deliver an 8-lb. baby and all the extras that come along with her and still be above your pre-pregnancy weight. If you gained the recommended amount, much of this can be attributed to excess fluid, an enlarged uterus and localized swelling.

By the 6 to 8 week mark, you will have lost a substantial portion of this. Nearly all the weight remaining can be attributed to fat stores built up during pregnancy.

Breast-Feeding

All major medical associations have declared "breast to be best," and breast feeding is a great calorie burner too. The average breast-feeding mom uses an extra 500 calories per day, according to Safer Child, Inc. An ounce of breast milk contains roughly 22 calories and requires additional calories to produce.

Couple these extra calories with the constant up-down routine your baby creates and his uncanny ability to demand to be fed the second you microwave the leftover lasagna. Considering all the calories you're burning and missing, you're well on your way to getting your pre-baby body back.

Walking

Whether you have a completely content baby or one who is colicky all day long, she's going to love moving. The affinity she developed for it didn't change when she was born. Moderate walking burns around 400 calories an hour, according to the President's Council on Fitness, so embrace your newborn's need to move.

Sleep

Studies have shown that your body is friendlier to the idea of losing weight when it has proper rest. "Sleep when baby sleeps" is excellent advice. You may miss the luxuriously long stretches you enjoyed during your third trimester, but the average newborn sleep anywhere from 14 to 18 hours per day, according to BabyCenter.com. Take advantage of these short periods of sleep to keep yourself energized and your body primed for weight loss throughout the day.

Relax

During the new-baby period, you may think Mother Nature created infants to maximize your fatigue. Rather than attempting to fit his schedule to yours, spend baby's first months practicing newborn care the way Mother Nature intended. Not only will your baby be happy and healthy, you'll be able to get your body back without uncomfortable diets or overexerting yourself.

Tags: your body, body back, during your, extra calories, Mother Nature

What To Wear To A Legally Blonde Costume Party

Add a toy chihuahua to your "Legally Blonde" costume.

"Legally Blonde" is a 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods, a blonde law student who loves pink and having fun. Elle wears lots of cute outfits during the film and its sequel, so finding a costume for a "Legally Blonde" party is pretty easy -- just remember to think pink and perfect a winning smile. Does this Spark an idea?

Outfit

You can choose from a number of looks depending on your own style. You could wear the pink skirt suit that Elle wears in court, or go for tight pink jeans and a polo shirt if you prefer a casual look. Elle is also seen in a tight pink minidress, a pretty pink sundress and a pink rubber jacket. You get the picture -- go for pink, pink and more pink!

Accessories

Elle loves sparkly jewelry and high-heeled shoes -- preferably pink ones. She also wears big sunglasses and carries designer-looking bags. Choose from a big black bag or a little, pretty pink one. If you can find a toy chihuahua to pop in the bag, then it will add a cute and funny edge to your outfit. You could also put a pink cover on your cellphone for extra detail.

Hair

Elle has beautiful, wavy blonde hair. If you're a blonde yourself, just curl your hair with heated curling tongs, then run your hands through the ringlets to create a tousled look. If you're a brunette or have short hair, then wear a long blonde wig.

Makeup

She may be a glamorous girl, but Elle doesn't overdo her makeup. Use cream eyeshadow and brown mascara to make your eyes look naturally pretty, then add a slick of pink lipstick. Define your eyebrows with an eyebrow pencil to achieve a well-groomed look. Give yourself a French manicure -- Elle never likes to go anywhere with shabby-looking nails.

Tags: Legally Blonde, costume Legally, costume Legally Blonde, Elle wears, pretty pink

What Are The Dangers Of Running Away From Home

Finding a safe shelter is hard, and runaway children are vulnerable if on their own at night.

National Runaway Switchboard states that between 1.6 and 2.8 million children run away in America every year. Many of these children are running from personal problems, but can encounter even greater ones when living on the streets. There are people who take advantage of vulnerable runaways, and you can find yourself in dangerous positions. Talk to a trusted friend or helpline if you're thinking about running away, because they can offer you support and help you deal with the root of your problems.

No Money

Having no money means you won't be able to afford the basic things your body requires. You need money to buy food, water and medical supplies. Without money you won't be able to afford health care if your policy expires, which puts your life at risk if you fall severely ill. Children and teenagers who run away often resort to crime to gain money, or are taken advantage of by adults who promise money.

No Food

Hunger is not only uncomfortable, but will also make you weak and lethargic. You might get sick quicker if you become underweight, and you won't have as much energy to fight viruses and illnesses you contract.

Nowhere to Sleep

There are many dangers to not having a safe place to sleep. You will be exposed to the elements, including snow and thunderstorms. Exposure to rain, cold or extreme heat can make you fall ill, and you'll have trouble fighting any viruses if you're malnourished. Many streets are noisy and dangerous at night, and you can become exhausted from lack of sleep.

No Advice

Being alone means you won't have anybody to confide in. There won't be anybody to advise you if you find yourself in a situation you're uncomfortable about, meaning you might put yourself in a dangerous position.

Crime

Many children and teenagers who are homeless for a prolonged period resort to crime to try and help their situation. Theft is common because stolen goods can be sold for money, but this can result in prosecution and might affect your future chances of getting a job. There are also people who extort vulnerable young adults, forcing you into dangerous situations that will make them money.

Substance Abuse

Some runaways turn to drugs and alcohol to try and escape their problems. Substance addiction requires money to fund, and young adults often resort to crime to pay for their dependencies. Both drugs and alcohol are extremely addictive and are often fatal with long-term use.

Tags: resort crime, able afford, drugs alcohol, find yourself, often resort, often resort crime, young adults