Tuesday, March 29, 2005

Fat Burning Compatible Foods

Fat burning compatible foods seem to be a popular topic around the gym these days. We also hear a lot about negative calorie foods which are considered a part of fat burning compatible foods. So if you are wondering what all the hype is about here is a simple explaination.

Fat burning compatible foods and negative calorie foods require more energy for your body to break down, absorb and then use than the actual calories that they contain. Eating these foods requires the body to create a calorie deficit that may help with weight loss.

Fat burning compatible foods are high in fiber, high in water content, and low in fat. They have a strong metabolism-boosting impact on the body and speed up the rate at which your body burns calories.

These foods require the metabolism to rev up and use the stored energy and fat to help in the digestion process. They are very healthy for you and you are probably already eating a lot of these foods.

Because these foods are considered to be fat burning compatible foods, there are no caloric limits. That means you may eat any of these foods until you feel satisfied without feeling guilty.

Here are a few examples of fat burning compatible foods and negative calorie foods:

  • Fruits:  oranges, pineapples, grape fruit, and cantaloupe


  • Vegetables:  broccoli, cabbage, green beans and onions


  • Breakfast foods:  Oatmeal, low-fat milk and whole grain cereal


  • Spicy foods:  cayenne peppers and most Chile peppers


  • Meats:  Turkey, Chicken and lean beef


  • Fish:  Tuna and Salmon


  • Beverages:  Coffee, Green Tea and Black Tea

    Fat burning compatible foods and negative calorie foods are easily implemented into your everyday diet and are healthy and delicious.

    Copyright © 2005  Treadmill Info.com  All Rights Reserved.


    This article is provided by Treadmill Info.com.  For other informative fitness articles go to Fitness Articles
  • Saturday, March 26, 2005

    Understanding Credit Report Scores

    Understanding credit report scores is important when you see your credit report because you need to be able to make some sense of it.

    Your credit score is used by anyone loaning you money such as credit card companies, home loan lenders, auto loan lenders and finance companies. They all use your credit score to determine your credit risk. The interest the lender charges you is based on your credit risk. So you can see how understanding credit report scores is information that can save or cost you money.

    You need to find out what your credit score is before you talk to any lender in case there is something on your report that you may question. You don't want the lender to find a mistake that you aren't aware of. If you find a mistake, it takes at least 30-60 days before you see corrections in your credit reports and scores.

    You have probably heard that checking your credit will bring down your score. But checking your own credit report and score is counted as a "soft inquiry" and doesn't harm your credit score at all. Only "hard inquiries" from a lender or creditor, made when you apply for credit, will bring your credit score down a few points.

    Your credit report should have the three main credit services Experian, Trans Union and Equifax and each service will give you a different credit score.

    The credit scores will range between 300 and 870 with each credit service giving a different score. The higher the score the better, because as your credit score increases, your credit risk to a lender decreases.

    The average high approval score where the best interest rates are offered is 680 or above. The credit score the lender uses comes from the middle score or an average of all three scores is sometimes used.

    Don't be surprised if you find an error once you get your credit report. Statistics show that 70 percent of credit reports contain serious errors. Those errors are what you want to clear up because they will affect your credit score.

    If you find a mistake, you have the right to dispute the information free of charge. Contact the credit bureau that provided the information and dispute the inaccurate information.

    Below are the names, addresses, phone numbers and web sites of the three credit bureaus TransUnion, Experian and Equifax.

    Equifax Credit
    P.O. Box 740241
    Atlanta, GA 30374
    Equifax 800-685-1111
    http://www.equifax.com

    TransUnion
    P.O. Box 1000
    Chester, PA 19022
    Trans Union 800-888-4213
    http://www.transunion.com

    Experian
    P.O. Box 2002
    Allen, TX 75013
    Experian 800-682-7654
    http://www.experian.com

    You can also contact the creditor direct and ask that the corrected information be provided to the credit bureaus.

    If you suspect any fraud, contact all three credit bureaus immediately and place a fraud alert on your report. Then, contact your credit card companies and bank to protect your accounts.

    Understanding credit report scores and checking your credit report at least once a year will keep fraud in check and keep your credit score safer.

    Copyright © 2005  Credit Repair Facts.com  All Rights Reserved.

    This article is provided by Credit Repair Facts.com.  For credit information, debt elimination programs and other informative articles go to Credit Articles

    Friday, March 18, 2005

    Fat Burning Exercises

    The best fat burning exercises are the slow, aerobic, long duration types of exercise that involve most of the major muscle groups. Your body burns a higher percentage of calories from fat with lower intensity cardio exercises.

    Some of these fat burning exercises include walking, jogging, running, elliptical trainer workouts, cycling and swimming. The key factor here is the more muscle groups you use, the more fat you'll burn.

    Some exercises will burn more sugar as opposed to burning fat. These sugar burning exercises involve brief spurts of movement followed by rest which means more sugar is used for fuel instead of fat.

    Some of these sugar burning exercises include sprinting, tennis, racquetball, basketball, and golf. While these are great sports that benefit your overall fitness condition, they will not burn fat like fat burning exercises will.

    To burn fat effectively, you need to exercise at a moderate pace for a longer period of time. It's often the residual effect of this type of aerobic exercise that gives you the most benefits.

    These aerobic fat burning exercises increase your metabolism which means you'll burn calories even after you exercise. People who exercise on a regular basis develop more fat burning enzymes than people who don't exercise at all.

    It generally takes twenty minutes of fat burning exercises to get the fat burning enzymes working. So if you are just starting out, exercise for twenty minutes and work up from there as your fitness level improves. Try to set 3 days a week as your goal to workout and work up to 5 days when you become more fit.

    Home treadmills and elliptical trainers are perfect for fat burning exercises. These will give you the slow, aerobic, long duration types of exercise that work best to burn fat.

    They are the most popular pieces for home workouts because they allow you to stay fit in any weather condition. They are easy to use and cost efficient because quality fitness equipment will last for many years.

    While eating properly will help you reduce body fat, combining it with fat burning exercises will give you the excellent results you are looking for.

    Copyright © 2005 Treadmill Info.com All Rights Reserved.

    This article provided by Treadmill Info.com  Find valuable information, ratings, reviews and buying tips before you make the investment in quality fitness equipment at Treadmill Info.com.  For more fitness and fitness equipment related articles go to: Treadmill & Fitness Articles

    Monday, March 14, 2005

    Treadmill Buying Tips

    These treadmill buying tips will make you aware of important considerations before you go treadmill shopping. A treadmill is the most popular piece of fitness equipment today and will last for many years. So you want to look for everything you want now as well as everything you'll need as you become more fit.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #1  Your Workout Area


    Make sure the treadmill is going to fit in the room where you will be using it. A treadmill can look small in the store but can become huge once you get it in your workout room at home.

    Get the treadmills measurements and make sure it fits well in your room and isn't crammed in a small space. Your workout area should be pleasant so you will enjoy it and workout more often.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #2  Price


    You get what you pay for in a treadmill but make sure you get the best in your price range. Read the treadmill reviews and ratings because these usually come from unbiased sources.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #3  Motor


    One of the most important elements of any treadmill is the motor. Look for a motor with a continuous duty power rating. You'll see other ratings such as, peak duty and treadmill duty but they don't mean much. Continuous duty power rating is a more accurate measure of motor power and this kind of motor will give you better performance with longer life.

    Most treadmill motors range from 1.5 HP to 3.0 HP with the less expensive treadmills offering lower power motors that simply will not last. Look for at least a 2.0 HP continuous duty motor and this should be adequate. If you run a lot on your treadmill you might want to get a 2.5 HP motor.

    There are AC and DC motors with most home treadmills using a DC motor because they are quieter. AC motors are mostly used in commercial treadmills and require much more power. The AC motor will also require a dedicated power line and will be much noisier.

    For a home treadmill, look for a DC motor with a minimum 1 year warranty for a quieter workout. A lot of people watch TV or listen to music while working out so motor noise is a very important consideration.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #4  Running Or Walking Surface


    Common mistakes made when buying a treadmill is thinking all running or walking surfaces are the same. They are not the same and here is what you look for.

    Look for a 2 ply surface belt with a minimum width of 17 inches. If you are a runner, get a running or belt surface length of 60 inches as a minimum. If you just want to walk on your treadmill look for a minimum belt surface length of 48 inches. These lengths will provide a more comfortable stride for walking or running.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #5  Inclines


    Look for an electronic incline that can be adjusted by pushing a button on the console. There are manually adjusted inclines but they have to be set before you begin using the treadmill. Quality treadmills will have this automatic electronic incline feature and you'll be much happier with it. Look for the incline feature to range between 0% and a minimum of 10% but higher is better.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #6  Low Impact Deck


    Treadmills with low impact or have a shock absorption system are much easier on your back and all of your joints. But a treadmill deck should not feel too soft or spongy. Read the treadmill reviews and ratings to know the type of cushioning system each manufacturer uses.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #7  Frame


    Look for a high alloy steel or a heavy aluminum treadmill frame. Steel is the best choice because it is heavier, sturdier and will last the longest. The weight of the steel frame also gives your treadmill more stability.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #8  Warranties


    Most quality treadmills offer lifetime frame warranties, but with regular use, your treadmill will require service at some point. Look for a warranty with a minimum of 1 year labor and 1 to 3 years on parts for parts on the motor, deck, belt and electronics.

    Motors and belts may require to be serviced by a technician. So make sure you purchase your treadmill from a company that provides accessibility to a technician.

    Even if you purchase your treadmill from the Internet, several manufacturers work with quality fitness services companies close to where you live.

    Treadmill Buying Tip #9  The Overall Feel


    The treadmill you choose should feel sturdy, be comfortable for you to walk or run on and be easy to use.

    Options like heart rate monitors, electronic displays, custom programs and interval training are something only you can decide on.

    These buying tips are for the critical considerations like structure, motor, belt and frame. Buying a quality treadmill means you will have fewer breakdowns while experiencing a much better workout.

    The bottom line is shop around, read the treadmill reviews and ratings and look at your treadmill as a long term investment in your overall health. That is the best treadmill buying tip you can get.


    This article is supplied by Treadmill Info.com where you will find valuable information, ratings, reviews, articles and buying tips before you make the investment in quality fitness equipment.  For more fitness related articles go to: Fitness Articles

    Saturday, March 12, 2005

    A Golfer's Diet

    GOLO GOLF GRUB
    Fuel for the golfer.

    “A good diet can not make an average athlete great, but a poor diet can make a great athlete average.”
    -David Costill, Ball State University, Indiana

    Golf is a lifetime sport that both men and women of all ages enjoy participating in. However, for the competitive golfer, it is a test of the athlete’s physical and mental endurance. While equipment and physical fitness are important to the game, a balanced diet is often the most overlooked aspect that all serious golfers must consider.

    DEFINING A BALANCED DIET


    For golfers, a balanced diet begins with eating at least 50% of your total caloric intake from carbohydrates such as whole grains, breads, pastas, rice, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy. Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred energy source during activity. It fuels the brain and nervous system, preserves protein while helping to burn fat. Consuming carbohydrates during activity helps maintain blood glucose levels, allowing the golfer to have improved concentration.

    Protein is another important macronutrient to incorporate into the balanced diet. Have 6 to 8 ounces of protein daily, and choose lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, round or loin cuts of beef, beans or legumes. Protein is needed for growth and repair of muscles, and helps regulate body processes as enzymes and hormones.

    Fat is the final macronutrient in the balanced diet. Fat, like carbohydrate, provides fuel for working muscles, but it is a more concentrated fuel source. Recommended fat intake is the same for athletes as for all healthy people – no more than 30% of your total calories coming from fat. This is approximately 4-5 servings of fat (based on 2000 calories). One serving of fat equals 1 teaspoon of oil or margarine, 6 nuts, or 2 teaspoons of peanut butter.

    FILL UP ON FLUIDS


    Hydration is an imperative component in the successful golfers game. Consuming adequate fluids before, during and after playing golf is beneficial. Even a slight decrease in bodyweight due to dehydration can affect your performance and result in fatigue & mental dullness. Consume approximately 8 oz of fluid before tee time.

    Golfing consumes 4-8 oz of fluid every 15-20 minutes or at every hole. If celebrating with alcoholic beverages is planned at the 19th hole, alternate fluid (nonalcoholic) with alcoholic drinks. Alcohol acts as a diuretic and actually increases fluid loss, so it is not a good choice for the replacement of fluids lost during the round of golf.

    To help your performance try these nutrition tips as you eat for “peak performance!”

    BEFORE THE MORNING ROUND



    1 cup oatmeal
    1 banana or 1 cup orange juice
    1 cup skim milk or 1 cup nonfat yogurt
    2 slices whole-wheat toast
    2 teaspoons margarine

    AFTER THE 9TH HOLE


    12 ounces Sports Drink
    2 tablespoons peanut butter and crackers
    or
    1 piece of fruit
    or
    1 granola or cereal bar

    POST GAME



    Don’t forget to re-hydrate as mentioned above!

    3-4 ounces grilled chicken breast
    1 cup brown rice
    1 cup steamed broccoli
    1 cup mixed greens salad
    2 teaspoons low fat dressing
    1 cup fruit salad

    These are just a few tips to jump start proper fueling as an important and integral part of your training program. Each athlete is unique and has different training schedules, food preferences, lifestyle factors, and weight concerns. For a more individualized assessment and recommendations for your needs submit a request at: GoLoGolFitness.com.

    About the Author:
    William Breland has been a Physical Therapist for over 25 years. He is the ONLY Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Therapy and Touring Golf Professional in the United States.

    This article and other informative shopping tips and articles similar to this featured on 4 Best Shopping.com

    Tuesday, March 08, 2005

    Elliptical Workout vs. Treadmill Workout

    An elliptical workout differs from a treadmill workout in a few ways. Both will give you an aerobic workout but an elliptical trainer will work different muscle groups than a treadmill.

    While both are excellent choices, they do have distinct differences. By knowing the difference, you can decide if an elliptical workout, the treadmill workout or even a combination of both works best for you.

    Elliptical Workout


    When comparing an elliptical workout to a treadmill workout the first thing you will notice is the elliptical trainer has much less impact. This low impact is especially good for people with joint, knee, lower back or hip problems.

    An elliptical workout also works the upper and lower body simultaneously which makes your heart rate climb faster than with a treadmill workout. The elliptical trainer works your legs, back, shoulders, chest and your arms making it a total body workout.

    Another great feature of an elliptical workout is you can add variety by pedaling backwards. This backward pedaling motion targets your lower body quadricep muscles.

    Treadmill Workout


    A treadmill workout can also give you an excellent aerobic workout and a lot of people still prefer it to an elliptical workout. If you prefer to run, jog or walk to exercise it's obviously a smarter choice.

    If you are just beginning to workout or just don't want a total body workout a treadmill workout might be perfect. Most treadmills offer a different intensity level that you can increase as you get more fit.

    A treadmill workout provides a different variety over an elliptical workout by allowing you to run, jog or walk on an incline. While it is a less intense workout, it is a great way to burn fat while promoting good cardiovascular health.

    Even though treadmills remain the number one piece of fitness equipment sold today, elliptical trainers are quickly becoming very popular. With more and more health clubs adding more elliptical trainer machines, more people will try elliptical workouts.

    Both elliptical workouts and treadmill workouts will build bone density, burn fat, promote good cardiovascular health and increase your energy level. The important thing is to workout on a regular basis whether it's at home or in a gym.

    If you are looking to purchase a treadmill or an elliptical trainer, the bottom line is, you usually get what you pay for. There are great values especially online but it just makes sense to get quality equipment that will last.

    Whether you prefer a treadmill workout or an elliptical workout choose the one that you feel is right for you. That way you will work out more often, lose more weight and be much healthier.

    Copyright © 2005 Treadmill Info.com All Rights Reserved.

    This article provided by Treadmill Info.com  Find valuable information, ratings, reviews and buying tips before you make the investment in quality fitness equipment at Treadmill Info.com.  For more fitness and fitness equipment related articles go to: Treadmill & Fitness Articles

    Sunday, March 06, 2005

    Credit Repair Tips

    Credit repair is a huge challege for most of us trying to get inaccurate or
    old information off of our credit report. But if you know what legal rights
    you have you may be surprised at what you can accomplish.

    In 1971 the United States Congress enacted the Fair Credit Reporting Act
    to insure that the credit bureaus investigate the credit items disputed by
    consumers.

    This federal law gives the consumer the right to challenge the accuracy,
    validity, and verifiability of the credit listings appearing in their 
    credit report. It also requires that the credit bureau repair any credit listing if it is inaccurate or can not be verified.

    But people continue to be negatively effected by credit bureaus
    everyday. The main reason is lack of knowlege on how to correct or
    change their credit information. This very important information could
    even save many from bankruptcy.

    The problem is the entire dispute system is designed to frustrate and
    discourage the consumer. Credit bureaus use many stall tactics,
    including requests for more information, further clarification and even
    identity clarification.

    The majority of us give up before even receiving a copy of our
    credit report. Even if a consumer manages to get their credit report, decipher the coded information, write a coherent dispute, and mail it, the credit bureaus may still find some reason to disregard the challenge.

    Some people even have the idea that credit bureaus must complete their
    investigation within thirty days or be forced to remove all disputed
    information. The reality is no one forces the credit bureaus to do
    anything.

    Believe it or not, accuracy of your information actually has little to do with
    the deletion of negative items. Many creditor grantors are simply
    reluctant to take the time to verify the data. While the credit bureaus may
    be in the business of reporting credit histories, creditor grantors are not.

    However, if you submit a valid dispute letter, and the credit bureau
    investigates your dispute, the chances of success are good. If a credit
    bureau cannot verify an item before completing its investigation, that item
    must be removed.

    If you would more like more information on how to correct, change or
    dispute your credit information we recommend this top resource.

    Top Credit Repair Resource

    About The Author
    Gary Gresham is a mortgage loan officer and the webmaster for
    Credit Repair Facts.com. He offers you credit information, debt elimination programs and informative facts that give you the knowledge to correct your own credit and credit report. For more credit related articles go to: Credit Related Articles

    Thursday, March 03, 2005

    The Benefits of Treadmill Walking

    Walking is becoming more and more popular among Americans. People are walking outdoors. People are walking in malls. People are donning their walking shoes and walking anywhere their feet can take them.

    Treadmill walking is also increasing in popularity...whether it be at a gym or on a home treadmill. Treadmill walking, as is walking in general, is helping many Americans lose weight and achieve their fitness goals.

    There are conveniences to treadmill walking. If the weather is inclement, a treadmill allows one to work out indoors, protected from the weather. You don't have to brave extreme temperatures, either, with treadmill walking.

    Treadmill walking can be done while watching television or reading a book, unlike walking outdoors or through a mall or someplace else. If you have your own treadmill, you'll also be able to work out in the privacy of your own home or office.

    Smooth Treadmills make treadmill walking easy and comfortable. Their sturdy build, powerful motors, and quality running surfaces are comparable to those found in commercial units. The control consoles on Smooth Treadmills are easy to operate and easy to read.

    The user programs and other features of these treadmills allow the user to preset the intensity and length of each treadmill walking exercise. Then, the treadmill will automatically adjust the speed and incline, allowing the user to focus more on doing the walking.

    Regular treadmill walking can lead to weight loss, as well as a healthy, fit body. The more intense your treadmill walking and the longer you engage in it each session, the stronger your heart will become.

    Other muscles in your body will be strengthened and help your body burn more fat. Also, the more exercise you get, the more calories you burn. And, you have to burn extra calories (more than you consume) to lose the fat. Treadmill walking done consistently can help build a leaner body.


    Cyndi Schoenhals
    Fitness writer


    This article is provided by Smooth Fitness, offering treadmills and elliptical trainers factory direct.


    Find valuable information, ratings, reviews and buying tips before you make the investment in quality fitness equipment at Treadmill Info.com.
    For more fitness and fitness equipment related articles go to: Treadmill Info.com Articles