Does Your Client Have Shoulder Issues?

If your client complains of shoulder discomfort, tightness or displays a limited range of motion with such exercises as the Shoulder Press or Kettlebell Snatch, it may be beneficial to teach him/her to perform a gentle Lateral Distraction Joint Mobilization for the Gleno-humeral Joint (shoulder).

In this video clip, learn a quick an easy "self" joint mobilization technique that will provide the following benefits:
-Improve overal shoulder range of motion/flexibility by gently stretching the joint capsule
-Assists in Synovial Fluid lubricating the shoulder joint
-Pain relief

Following the technique, be sure reassess the shoulder range of motion.  Then attempt the exercise again to see if you have made progress.

*Helpful with Frozen Shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) and impingement syndrome

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pNziq4Ckbg

Multi-Angle Deadlift

Simple exercise to set up, all you need is 4 cones and possibly a kettlebell (challenging with no weight also). 
Click below for the video
 
Tips to remember:
-HIP HINGE!!! Do not bend through the lower back segments
-Maintain body weight on the posterior aspect of your foot (heel)
-Keep your hip bones facing forward (minimal rotation)

Functional Values:
-Glute Recruitment for lower back stability
-Core engagement
-Single leg balance
-Ankle and knee stability
-Acceleration/Deceleration pattern for sports
-Kinesthesia for the lower body

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZO1ZUjyntU

Enjoy,

Nick

LOG TRAINING: New to the Fitness Industry

Recently, I had the privilege to learn the new training technique created by Master Safakhoo of Nabard Fitness Systems.  This training tool, called Log Training, has many advantages and benefits.  It can be used  not only by fitness enthusiasts, but also for athletes, especially martial artists, MMA, tennis and golf players. As a Physical Therapist and Personal Trainer, I see this new fitness tool to be one of the most diverse in the industry.  Check out the link below and http://www.strengthondemand.com/ for more info.

  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCo30lBPIHU

Anterior Shoulder Capsule Protection

Take a look at this simple technique everyone should use when performing any type of pressing or pulling exercise with the arms.  Doing this will protect your shoulder joint from becoming "stretched out," unstable and painful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00IPEwniYgM

Fitness Post Partum

As a Physical Therapist, I have treated many new moms who are suffering from lower back pain.  During the initial evaluation interview process, most moms say their back hurts whenever they bend over the crib rail to lift their infant or when they attempt to lift their toddler from the floor.  They have difficulty carrying their child especially when they are required to multi-task, a responsibility all moms are familiar with.  After assessing their movement patterns, I usually start by correcting their body mechanics.  Once the pain level is reduced, we begin a strengthening program to prevent this pain from returning.  CLick on the link below to see a few of the exercises.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wj5--8ZS-vo

Protect Your Lower Back By Engaging Your Core

Check out this quick video on how to engage your core during exercise.  Learn to use a feedback technique (your own hands) to make sure your core is contracted properly.  Now, it is your job to make sure you maintain this contraction throughout the entire workout.  No need to focus so much on timing your breathing during the positive/negative portion of the contraction (I'm sure you have all heard "exhale upon exertion") for spinal stability when you use this technique.  Mastering this skill will greatly reduce your chances of injuring your lower back.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGT8ckhUrE8

Knee Pain: What Can You Do For It?

Many people, especially athletes have complained of knee pain one time or another, especially during activities such as squats and stairclimbing.  Instead of focusing in strictly on the knee joint, neighboring joints/muscles should be assessed as possible causes.  For example, tight calf muscles and IT-band, weak gluteal muscles and poor motor control are contributing factors.  Check out these videos for further information on possible corrective strategies.  Also, make sure you attempt the painful motion following these corrective strategies to check for proper carry over.  Pain should diminish noticeably.
PFPS part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kauwemDv0wo
PFPS part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l623GQDoKo

Hope this helps