Exercise Now, Stay Fit Later

Evan Stevens The next few studies were about the effects of creatine supplementation and resistance training in aging adults. We know that aging decreases bone density as well as muscle strength while increasing fat deposition. Working out can prevent this, and the fitter you are when you are younger, the easier it is to be

immune system

Get Outside and Exercise – Your Immune System Will Thank You

Evan Stevens The first talk of the session presented some interesting findings from their study. The researchers wanted to know the effect location had on exercise in the elderly, primarily on the immune system. They had senior subjects (age range 66-80) do a moderate workout on a cycling bike either in a blank office, an

Athleticism

Athleticism – It’s Nature Over Nurture

Evan Stevens    This was a hugely interesting session presented by the large Japanese contingent at the ECSS. The whole session was about how our genes contribute to our athletic performance, and how that can further be used to understand health. What came out of the talks was that if you want to be a

BHB Supplements

BHB Supplements and Energy

Evan Stevens BHB Supplements and Energy We’ve already heard about low CHO (low carbohydrate) diets and how they can hinder performance. However, the next talk went a little deeper into CHO-fasted states. More specifically how this ketogenic state increased ketone bodies – made from high-fat use. Sourcing Energy Previous studies done on ketogenic states showed

Alpine Skiing: A Form of HIIT

Evan Stevens This study looked at the applicability of HIIT for use in patients with increased risk of Cardio-respiratory events in cold, winter climates. The researchers wanted to look at how HIIT could be used to improve cardio-respiratory risk (CRR) factors through alpine skiing; an activity common in northern and colder climates where running and

Riding for Charity

Carpe Diem, The Series: Riding for Charity

Paul Stevens Carpe Diem (but in a relaxed sort of way) Summer Daze We’re into August already?! The summer has been moving quickly probably because the schedule has been pleasantly full. We recently had my sisters and their respective husbands stay with us for a weekend and we were able to show them around town as

Chocolate Milk at the End of Practice

Paul Stevens Carpe Diem (but in a relaxed sort of way) Happy Canada Day and Independence Day to our U.S.-based friends! Isn’t it a bit of wonder that two countries with a border that spans thousands of kilometers/miles has never seen the need for anything that even resembles a fence, let alone a wall? I

Gran Fondo Canada

Preparing for Gran Fondo Canada

Paul Stevens Carpe Diem (but in a relaxed sort of way) Preparing for Gran Fondo Canada With kneecap issues seemingly resolved by maintaining some exercises aimed directly at improving  quadriceps/hamstring muscle balance, I have been able to enjoy some great bike rides with my fellow Manditos.  I’m the new guy on the block having lived

Carpe Diem, The Series: Testing Yourself

Paul Stevens Carpe Diem (but in a relaxed sort of way)! As alluded to in my past couple of articles, I was scheduled to undergo a fitness test.  The genesis of doing this was to determine where I, as a reasonably active 60 year old male fits into the fitness spectrum for my demographic. To

Carpe Diem, The Series: Hit the Trails

Paul Stevens What a difference a week makes!  Last weekend, we had a late season bout of wet snow and rain that made for nothing short of miserable weather. As is said, April can be the cruelest month; teasing us with true spring-like weather one day only to turn it on its ear the next. 

When Weather Disrupts Your Ride

Developing a Body for Sport and Life

Evan Stevens Based on a talk by Andy O’Brien at Take Control of Your Health/Wellness – Exercise Nutrition Symposium, University of Western Ontario Ever wonder what it takes to become the best at a sport? To achieve Olympic greatness or win a major league title? Mr. O’Brien knows how. He is a professional trainer and