Coach Broser’s Did You Know?

health question

-That Echinacea is an herb not only proven to help fight off colds, but can also decrease levels of anxiety by 25% or more. -Marinating meats in lemon juice before cooking can reduce production of "advanced glycation end products," which are compounds that age the body. -That drinking 8 oz per day of apple juice has been proven to decrease symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease. -That CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) has been shown to help lower heart attack risk and be protective against cancer. -That the best diet for controlling blood sugar is a high protein, low-glycemic … [Read more...]

Free Weights vs. Machines?

free weight girl

Q.  If all things are equal will I get faster results from free weights or from machines? A. Unless you have an injury free weights should always be your choice of exercise for several reasons. Here are a few advantages of free weights: – Using barbells & dumbbells are much more effective in strengthing/developing synergistic muscles, e.g. rotator cuff. – Biomechanically free weights match the natural movements of the body. – Overall you will develop greater strength & size using free weights. – Overall power is achieved much more efficiently. Here are a few … [Read more...]

The Story on Strength…

strength

Q: A friend of mine told me he read that there are many types of strength, but he could not explain their differences. Can you clarify? A: Your friend is correct. There ARE many types of strength. Let’s take a quick look at each… Limit Strength: this is defined as the maximum amount of force your muscles can produce. This type of strength is not likely to be seen except under the most extreme of circumstances, such as life-threatening situations or under the influence of certain drugs…PCP for example. Maximal Strength: this is defined a the most force your muscles can produce … [Read more...]

ZERO CARBS FOR FAT LOSS: HOLY GRAIL OR SURE TO FAIL? Part II

no carbs

This month I will continue my discussion of why I feel that a zero-carb approach to dieting might be counter-productive when trying to achieve not only ideal health, but your ideal body. Thus far I have mentioned that a lack of any carbohydrates in the diet will also cause a lack of insulin, which can compromise one’s ability to rapidly and efficiently uptake amino acids, glucose, creatine and other muscle building compounds into muscle cells at several critical times during the day. As well, this lack of insulin will also result in higher levels of circulating cortisol, which can cause a … [Read more...]