Exercise | NonStop Natural

Top 5 Treadmills for 2017: We Have One for Every Budget and Every Space

January 13, 2017 by Tammy Robinson Leave a Comment

When winters are as tough as this one, trying to get in some exercise can be difficult. Even when you have a gym membership, going out in the snow or ice is not only unpleasant, but it can be downright dangerous.

This is why so many people keep treadmills on hand. Regardless of the weather, you can always exercise right at home.

Of course, getting a treadmill depends on several factors; price, the amount of space you have on hand, and how much you intend to use it.

We are going to take a look at the top treadmills available in 2017 – there is surely one here to suit your needs, space, and budget!

Schwinn 870 Treadmill

This is one of the most expensive treadmills around, but with a name like Schwinn behind it, you know it’s a keeper that should last many, many years. With an average price of $1,000, this treadmill has a powerful 3.0 continuous motor, 26 workout programs, and two monitors, which means you can watch your tablet or read while still keeping an eye on your performance. Nice little features, such as a built in fan, in console speakers, as well as an MP3 input port and USB media charging means you can listen to your jams and never have to worry about battery life.

Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill

This machine is considered to be a medium priced treadmill, going for approximately $550. This treadmill has everything you would want, such as an adjustable incline level and foldable design, and, for the money, it has some nice features you don’t expect, such as iPod and MP3 player USB plug in. With a full 18 pre-programmed workouts, you won’t get bored easily.

ProForm ZT4 Treadmill

This is another reasonably priced treadmill that runs about $450. The ProForm ZT4 comes with a nice 2.75 CHP motor that hits a max of 10 MPH. This is a super portable unit that folds up nicely, but still has a 10 percent incline option. If you like to monitor your heart rate, this treadmill features contact grips so you can reach your optimum heart rate zone and burn more calories.

Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill

For those on a tight budget, the Weslo Cadence can’t be beat! Priced at less than $300, this super compact and super space saving design is perfect for those who only intend to use it during bad weather, or for those who are concerned about space. Six pre-programmed workouts, two position incline, and a comfortably cushioned running surface makes this a model most people can’t say no to!

Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill

This is another budget ($350) treadmill that still offers many of the features of higher priced models. Merit Fitness has a 1.5 CHP (2.5 THP) motor that can reach speeds of 10 MPH. Sturdy enough to support 250 lbs, the 3 window LED display will track time, speed, calories, distance run, and more! Folds to a tiny 29W x 26.25H x 56D, and has a lifetime warranty on the frame and 1 year on the motor itself. This treadmill gets 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, so you know it’s a good deal for the price.

Special Mention: Sole Fitness F80 Treadmill

This is the treadmill for those who want the absolute best in life, even in a treadmill. Cushion Flex Whisper Deck has been shown to reduce the impact on joints by an amazing 40% (when compared to running on asphalt). Measures a whopping 35W x 58H x 80D, this treadmill features fans, two heart programs, built in MP3 sound system and a lifetime warranty on the frame, motor, and deck. At almost $2 grand, this is the top of the line, but if you can afford it, you will not be disappointed! Amazon is offering 12 months interest free financing right now, so check it out here.

Top 10 Must Have Items for a Home Gym

December 26, 2016 by Tammy Robinson Leave a Comment

Whether you are thinking about bikini season or you want to keep your New Year’s resolution, there is no denying that having a home gym rocks.

While it is true that regular gymnasiums can offer things that you can’t find at home, like a personal trainer or a juice bar, but it is also true that you can literally save thousands of dollars by not paying for a membership, annual fees, gas, and wear and tear on your car. Let’s also not forget the joys of waiting for a machine, or being limited to 30 minutes on the treadmill during peak hours. Ugh!

You can make your own home gym by adding just a few simple items. We have tried to create a list that runs the gamut, here. We have included everything from a treadmill ($$$) to a jump rope ($).

One of the best ways to get your home gym up and running is to invest with a friend. If each of you buys some equipment, you can double the items in your gym without spending extra bucks.

Let’s take a look at the best must have items for a home gym.

Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells

No workout routine would be complete without dumbbells, but who wants to store (and buy) all those different weights? Bowflex has the answer with this compact set of dumbbells that go from 5 pounds up to 52.5 pounds! Super space saving design means no weights lying all over the floor.

SPRI Medicine Ball

This old fashioned method of staying in shape has made a comeback in a big way! SPRI puts a new twist on them by adding dual handles, so one can easily access the ball from either side or from any position. Dual handles are much safer as well. You can get a complete strength training workout just by adding a medicine ball to your sit ups, squats, and lunges.

TriggerPoint Foam Roller

OK, so this isn’t so much about getting fit as being comfortable, but foam rollers are still invaluable for a home gym. To relieve the pain of sore, tight muscles, or to fight back against that Charlie horse, foam rollers can’t be beat. This one also comes with an instructional DVD, so you can use it properly.

Iron Gym Pull Up Bar

There is no doubt that pull ups are hard, however, there is also no doubt that this is one of the best ways to improve upper body strength. By putting one of these in your doorway, you can try to do a pull up every time you walk by. Before you know it, you will find pull ups easier and easier! This is an inexpensive piece of equipment that can really help improve physical fitness!

Perfect Fitness Ab Wheel

Oh those abs! Everyone wants those nice, tight, flat ones, but they can be soooo difficult to get. Modern ab wheels, such as this one by Perfect Fitness, have a kinetic engine and an ultra wide wheel base to make using one easier and more effective. The great thing about ab wheels is that you can use one almost anywhere! Try using your ab wheel during commercials.

Stamina Elliptical Trainer

For those of you who don’t have the space or money for the full size elliptical machines, this is the perfect alternative! Reasonably priced, it has almost everything you could want, other than the push/pull motion of the upper body. However, without the rod or bands for balance, you maintain your core by keeping your own balance naturally.

Weslo Cadence Treadmill

While everyone would like a top of the line treadmill, the truth is that you don’t need to pay a lot to get a lot. This minimalist treadmill is fairly narrow, but has everything you need to get in a cardio workout.

King Jump Rope

Chances are that you haven’t picked up a jump rope in years, but if you want a quick and easy way to really get your heart rate up, this is the way to do it. Did you know that just 10 minutes of jumping rope is the same as 30 minutes of running? If you want to get a good cardio workout in a short period of time, this is the answer for you!

Lifecore Air Bike

OK, this one is a bit pricey, but well worth the money. This bike works on air resistance, so the harder you pedal, the harder it is to pedal! Unlike many other stationary bicycles, this one has an upper body workout as well.

HemingWeigh Extra Thick Exercise Mat

Of course, no gym would be complete without an exercise mat. This mat is extra thick to help cushion knees and elbows, while allowing plenty of generous space to do yoga or other exercises.

It’s always tough to get started, but once you decide to get in shape and give your body the gift of exercise, you will never regret it.

Top 10 Natural Ways to Stop Night Time Leg Cramps

October 12, 2016 by Tammy Robinson Leave a Comment

If you have ever suffered from one of those jump-out-of-bed-and-dance-around-the-room nighttime leg cramps, you know how awful, and painful, they can be!

Although you can also experience these painful cramps in the feet or thighs, for most people, it is the calf muscle that seems to be the main culprit.

There are numerous reasons why people experience these cramps; everything from pregnancy, particular medications long periods of sitting or standing, even a nutritional deficiency. However, in many cases, no one really knows why we get them.

A quick look at Google will reveal hundreds of “cures”. Some work for some people, but don’t for others. If you are unable to find the reason for your leg cramps, you might want to try these one at a time. Hopefully, one of the following 10 methods will give you relief from these painful episodes.

Soap

This one has been proven to work, although scientists and doctors are at a loss to explain it. We can personally attest that this method has worked for one of the admin’s of this page!

Simply by placing a bar of unwrapped soap inside the bed, you can stop cramps from occurring. Be certain that you are using real soap and NOT a “beauty bar” or “complexion bar”. Those are not real soap, but merely detergent. Ivory soap or Irish Spring is two common soaps. Unwrap the bar and put it between the sheets, down towards your feet. You don’t have to actually touch the soap with your feet, but you can if you like.

If you should experience a cramp, or if the soap starts to dry out too much, replace it. As we mentioned, this method works for many, although scientists don’t understand why this is.

Stay Hydrated

Simply being a little dehydrated can cause muscle cramps. Water makes up about 75 percent of our muscle tissue, so you can see how lacking even a little bit of water in our bodies can cause our muscles to react strangely. Water balances the electrolytes in the body, without which, our muscles simply wouldn’t work right. Be certain that you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women will experience leg cramps at night, especially during their late second trimester and right up until birth. This is most likely due to increased pressure on the nerves and/or circulation in the legs. Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do about this, ladies, until you give birth. Try the soap method listed above and/or speak with your doctor.

Nutritional Deficiencies

There are several minerals in the body that are important for muscle contraction and nerve impulse. Sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, are all necessary for proper muscle function. A lack of any of these can result in leg cramps.

Consider taking a multi-vitamin supplement if you feel you are eating a proper diet, but are still suffering from leg cramps. You can also try adding more bananas, nuts, seeds, spinach, and seafood to your diet to see if these mineral rich foods help to stop your cramps.

Overexertion

For those who must stand for long periods of time or those who wear high heels regularly, you will find that these activities put excessive pressure on the calf and foot muscles, often causing leg cramps. Be sure you wear shoes that fit well and if you must stand all day, put a soft mat under your feet. There are mats designed just for this purpose!

Ladies, take a break from heels! Vary the size of your heels at the very least! Don’t wear heels around the house or anywhere you don’t really have to. High heels are pretty, but they are detrimental to your feet, legs, and back!

Hypothyroidism

Low levels of thyroid hormones, known as hypothyroidism, can also cause nighttime leg cramps. Since thyroid hormones affect how the body uses calcium and other minerals, you can suffer from a deficiency not due to poor eating habits, but poor absorption because of an underactive thyroid. If you suspect this might be the case, a simple blood test will tell your doctor if your thyroid is working properly.

Prolonged Sitting

Unfortunately, many people work behind a desk for most of the day. This can lead to a lack of circulation, which can cause nighttime leg cramps. Try to at least stand up for 2 minutes out of every 30. You might want to set a timer on your phone or computer to remind you. Walk during your breaks and after work to help improve muscle tone and circulation.

Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol

As much as we love it, caffeine and alcohol are diuretics, which rob the body of water and important minerals. No one is expecting you to cut out that morning cup of Joe, but stop after two or three cups in the morning. Consider replacing your lunchtime soda with water or green tea, and limit your consumption of alcohol to no more than 1 drink (5 ounces) per day. If you do drink before bedtime, you should drink a full cup of more of water just before hitting the sack.

Stretch the Legs

Some people say that simply taking a quick walk or riding a stationary bike for about 10 minutes in the evening helps to stop leg cramps. This is most likely due to increased circulation and the stretching of the calf muscles. You can also try yoga to stretch the calf muscles.

Keep It Loose

Don’t tuck those covers in too tightly around the foot of the bed! Some people say that they experience leg cramps when their feet or toes become twisted because they are caught in the covers. You want the sheets and blanket to cover the feet, but not so tight that your feet are pointed down or in some other awkward position.

Do you have any other natural remedies that have worked for you? We would love to hear how you avoided nighttime leg cramps.

Need a New Yoga Mat? We Have 10 Great Ideas for You!

October 6, 2016 by Tammy Robinson Leave a Comment

If you haven’t gotten into yoga yet, you will! It’s simply the best all around exercise and stretching routine that is perfect for every age and everybody!

Most people discover yoga or Pilates after an injury. When your physical therapist begins to suggest certain poses, helping you limber up and strengthen your injured muscle or body part, you quickly find that, not only does it feel great, but that it actually works!

Newbie’s will pick up one of those “one size fits all” exercise mats from their local discount or sporting goods store, only to find that it really doesn’t work all that well for yoga. It might cushion the back or the behind, but they slide or that they get wet and stay wet.

If you need a new yoga mat or if you are a beginner who doesn’t know which would be the best mat for you, we have compiled a list of 10 of the best mats around. There is something for everyone here, so be sure you check out the entire list!

Manduka Black Pro Yoga Mat with eQua Yoga Towel

Made from 8o% polyester and 20% nylon, this mat is a best seller for a reason! It has a no slip finish that feels like fabric! This mat is super dense, for superior cushioning. It will dry quickly, but for all other purposes, the eQua hand towel will take care of those sweaty foreheads and palms. Bigger than most mats, this one comes in at a generous 26X72 inches. This luxurious mat comes with an easy carry strap so you can roll it up quickly and stick it in your bag or the trunk of your car. Our only complaint would be that it only comes in black, which is basic, but sometimes boring.

Technicolor Turtle Printed Yoga Mat

This beautiful mat is made by The Bolder Mat Company and they have other designs if turtles aren’t your thing. These are super sticky, so you aren’t sliding around on your behind during class! These beautiful mats are phthalate free and the designs are made from non-toxic, long lasting ink. You will love this one so much, we bet you get several!

Spoga 1/4-Inch Anti-Slip Exercise Yoga Mat

If you are on a budget, this is the perfect mat for you! Super affordable, comes in a variety of colors, but still measures a generous 24X72. A full ¼ inch thick, this one gets the job done! Made from a moisture resistant skin, so it stays clean and dry. This basic mat is easy to roll, stays unrolled when in use, and comes with its own handy carrying strap. Everything you want for a bargain price.

HemingWeigh 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Exercise Yoga Mat

If you are looking for a mat with extra cushioning, this should be your choice. A full ½ inch thick, this one is soft enough to sleep on! Comes with a 2 year manufacturer warranty and several colors to choose from! It measures 24X71, which is a bit shorter than many mats, but works for most women. Excellent traction and cushioning power in cute colors, which is what most people are looking for in a mat, right?

prAna Women’s Belize Printed Xtra Lite Mat

These are super popular and it’s easy to see why. These colorful mats are made from non-Amazon harvested tree rubber and are biodegradable. For the eco-conscious girl, this makes these mats the ultimate choice. These are super traction mats that are very lightweight compared to most. Doesn’t come with a strap, however, so be sure you buy one or make one to make it easier to carry, although it does fold up nice and neat. This is the perfect mat for those who want to do yoga outdoors.

Jade Harmony Professional 3/16-Inch Yoga Mat

The perfect marriage between quality and cushioning. This mat offers premium 3/16 inch, open cell cushioning design that offers exceptional resilience. Made with no phthalates or PVC, this mat comes in 68 inch and 72 inch lengths, as well as 9 colors. This mat is made from natural rubber, which is not only a renewable source, but is super sticky! This best selling mat has so much to offer, but the icing on the cake has to be that it is made in the good old U.S. of A!

Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip

As the name suggests, this mat stays super dry and sticky, no matter how much you sweat. This is the choice for many who do Hot Yoga. This mat feels super squishy and is made from 100 percent natural rubber, which is how it stays so sticky. Measures a nice 24X68 and cleans easily with alcohol and water. It does not come with a carrying strap, but you can buy a yoga mat bag for a few extra bucks.

Hugger Mugger Gallery Collection Printed Yoga Mat

The awesome yoga mat with the funny name! This one comes in 5 different colors, each with its own hand drawn design. This one is made from PVC, which means it is super long lasting. Measures 24X68 and is very lightweight. It might not be as sticky as some other mat choices, however, but feels very secure for such a lightweight mat.

Gaiam Athletic Yoga Series 2gripMAT

This is another best seller on Amazon and with good reason. This mat is super sized at a big 26X78, so if you are on the tall side (over 5’10”), you will have plenty of room. Features the Matdt (dry technology) and a super long lasting PVC backing, while the top layer absorbs water like a sponge. Comes in two colors, black or neon green, but does not come with a strap. There are yoga bags you can buy for carrying purposes.

Liforme Yoga Mat

This one is a bit on the pricey side, but if you are a beginner who really wants to do it right, this is a terrific mat! The mat has a design on the front which helps to show you where to place your feet, arms, and hands. This has a natural rubber base, so it’s super sticky, but a cushioned felt top so you don’t feel that hard floor! No PVC and no glue! This mat uses a heat bonding process that eliminates that ugly plastic smell.

The reasons to do yoga are endless, so be sure you get a mat that you feel comfortable with so you will have no reason to skip sessions. Yoga is proven to lower blood pressure, relieve stress, and clear the mind. Why not get started today?