Neat tricks you can do with your own body

Found this interesting blog over at LifeHacker.  It has some interesting things posted, like how to control your pupil size or to stop a brain freeze.  All handy little things anyone can do. 

Read more from this link:  10 Tricks to control your body

Getting into the Groove (slowly)

Coming back from a vacation after a long string of business trips, I feel refreshed and energized to deal with the grinds of work again.  However, while on vacation and those trips, my exercise levels did drop considerably.  I did my best to train when I could, but in the 3 1/2 weeks I was away from the gym, my weight went up nearly 1.7 pounds, from 190.3 to 192.  Yikes! 

It's Life! Hike the Rainbow

Living in southern California has its pluses like the abundant sunshine, nearby beaches, and plenty of hiking trails.  Hiking is one great way to see different parts of the county, and to take in nature's beauty.  I came across an article which describes one of the trails in the northeastern part of San Diego.  Rainbow Canyon is east of the apple and wine town, Julian, CA.  As always, plan ahead and take plenty of fluids and a healthy snack.  The buddy system is definitely the way to go.  Happy hiking! 

Here's the article:  Rainbow Canyon.

Traveling and Quick Fitness

Thoughts of the holidays usually entail visions of delicious homemade food and conversations with loved ones.  Traveling during the holiday season is common as well, and while it's difficult to substitute a complete workout in a hotel room away from home, here are a few exercises which require little to no equipment.  This short program will keep your heart rate up!  Be sure to properly warm up and stretch a bit before engaging in any activity.


1.  Begin with 15-20 pushups using a normal width (hands shoulder width apart).  Rest for 45 seconds, and do another set.  Rest 60 seconds and move to the next exercise.

2.  Do another 15-20 pushups, however place your hands wider than shoulders to emphasize more of the exercise on your chest.  Rest 45 seconds and do another set.  After a 60 second rest, it's onto the next exercise.

3.  Using a large phone book, place one hand on the phone book and the other on the floor.  Do 10-12 pushups and switch sides.  Rest 60 seconds and repeat.