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Stick With A Fitness Plan

 

Good fitness is a goal most people have. Staying fit helps you look and feel good, and will be beneficial as you grow older. Despite these positive rewards, many people struggle to find a fitness plan that works for them, and then to stick to it. Today, I’m going to talk about the latter problem and help you stay on-track with your fitness regimen.

Same Time, Same Place

By far the best way to stay on-track is to complete your workout at the same time and place each day. This could mean a 6am jog around the neighborhood, or a post-work weightlifting session at the local gym. Regardless of what you do, try to stay as consistent as possible. Our brains love habits, so making your workout habitual will increase your chances of sticking with it.

Classes

For some, doing push-ups or running on a treadmill is too boring to do forever. If you need a more exciting option, try taking an exercise class. This could be martial arts, barre, or even yoga. Choosing your workout wisely will ensure you are mentally stimulated and will give you a better chance of success.

Fitness Partner

Working out alone can be boring at best, or even intimidating at worst. Even non-aggressive gyms can be scary for the lone person who is out-of-shape. Try to convince your spouse, a sibling, or a friend to join you on your workouts. If you can find someone who is around your same fitness level, there is a good chance both of you will enjoy going and trying out some new activities together.

Skip The Goals

Many people swear by setting goals for themselves, but sometimes, goals can be detrimental. Until you reach the goal, you will feel negatively about yourself, always hoping that you can push your way to the top. Beyond that, once you reach your goal, you may be tempted to quit working out. Rather than setting goals, try following this simple equation: habits + rewards = success. Make your exercise habitual, and reward yourself after completing it. Your brain will learn to anticipate your workout, and will feel positive before you even start.

Working out more is one of the most popular goals people set for themselves. Although this is a great thing to strive for, it doesn’t mean anything unless you follow through. Make sure you stay focused by following these steps. Soon enough, you’ll find that your workout is not only good for you, but is also a positive part of your routine.

From ArthurDanner.com

Fun Summer Activities For The Family

Summer is, for many people, the best time of the year. The sun is out, the weather is warm, and there’s more of a reason to go outside and enjoy the weather. However, while some people are frolicking in fields, others feel overwhelmed by the kids being home all the time, and they might not know what to do with them. Furthermore, kids’ activities are not always fun for adults. Today, I’ll give you some insight on a few activities everyone in the family will love.

Camping

Camping may not always be the top choice when it comes to picking a fun family activity. Still, camping is one of the best ways to bond as a family. You can drive into the mountains or forest, set up a camper or tent, and enjoy some time away from the insanity of daily life. Try leaving mobile devices in the car, opting instead to go hiking, roast some marshmallows, or tell scary stories. There is so much in nature that we take for granted, and revisiting those treasures will help everyone in the family appreciate each other a little more.

Cooking

Many families are used to cooking being a chore, when in reality, it’s a creative, fun pastime for everyone. Pick out recipes for a 2-3 course meal and let the kids help in the kitchen. Older kids can measure out ingredients, while younger children may stir everything together or wash veggies in the sink. Adults will handle the oven or stove, as well as the chopping, grating, or any other dangerous component. Finally, sit down together, enjoy your food, and talk about your day. Cooperative teamwork (and the relaxation that comes afterward) will help strengthen the bond of your family.

Board Games

It’s inevitable that some summer days will be rainy. Rather than letting your kids play video games for 12 hours, or sitting around on your phone, take the time to pull out some board games and play them with your kids. The options are endless, from classics like Monopoly to new favorites, like Catan. Board games make great presents, too, so if anyone has a birthday in the summer, it could be a great opportunity to buy a gift that will encourage spending time together.

Summer can be a stressful time for parents, who have to coordinate their children’s schedules with their own. Although these activities will never fully solve that problem, they will ensure that the whole family has time to spend together doing an activity they can all enjoy.

From ArthurDanner.com

Get Your Kids Outside This Summer

It’s almost time for summer break, and parents and struggling to come up with good options to bide their kids’ time. Today, kids are more invested in video games and TV than ever before, and it’s becoming increasingly more difficult to get them to go out and play. Nowadays, running around outside is becoming more like a chore to be ticked off the chart, rather than an enjoyable activity. This summer, commit to getting your children outdoors with these great activities.

Scavenger Hunt

If you have younger kids who have never done a scavenger hunt, this summer is a great time to do one. You can list somewhere between 5-10 items, such as a leaf, a flower, an acorn, and more. If you want to get creative, you could take pictures of the items, rather than collecting them. This would open up the list to include things like birds or fun shadows. While this activity will probably need supervision, if you have an older child and a younger, this could be a great activity for them to do together.

Swimming

Who doesn’t love swimming? Most people enjoy being submerged in water, and of course, summer is the ideal time to do so. If you don’t have a pool, take your kids to the public pool or the beach. Just like a scavenger hunt, going swimming does require supervision, but a well-equipped older (teenage) sibling could suffice, as long as you are available to jump in if need be.

Geocaching

A fun activity that can take you to new areas, geocaching is a fun way to practice navigating difficult terrain while looking for a prize. Some geocache sites merely have a magnet or other small object, but some have containers filled with stickers or other fun objects that make the search more rewarding. Keep in mind that geocaching can take awhile to complete, so you should pack food and water if it is said to be a difficult one.

Build A Fort

Forts are great places for kids to hang out all summer. It could be a treehouse or a grounded fort, but either way, it’s a clubhouse for the kids to be kids outside. If your kids are handy, you could even task them with the building and design of the fort. This would be a long-term project that has the benefit of a kids-only place for your kids to hang out all summer.

Getting kids to play outside is difficult in this age of technology overload. It’s still important for kids to get exercise and use their imagination, so I encourage you to try at least one of these options this summer. You may spark an interest that keeps your kids outdoors much more than indoors.

From ArthurDanner.com

Chilly Summer Getaways

Summer stands for two things: excessive heat and vacation time. While many people love basking in the sun on a tropical island, others can’t stand the heat or humidity. Fortunately, there are many vacation destinations that stay on the colder side during the summer. Before giving up on taking time off during peak heat, consider traveling to one of these chilly summer getaways.

Norway

This Nordic country is well-known for its colder temperatures, averaging in the 50s and 60s during the summer. The Northern Lights are a big draw to this area, although many people enjoy exploring the city of Oslo. If you want a unique European adventure that keeps you in a light jacket, Norway is a good option for this summer.

Seattle

This city has frequent bouts of rain, keeping its temperatures in the milder range for the summer. Though not as cool as Norway, Seattle’s average high is 75-degrees, making it very bearable for sensitive individuals. Seattle is a great place to explore a large city, dine at one-of-a-kind eateries, and take in the local culture, all while staying comfortably warm.

Maine

If you would like to take time away from the hustle and bustle of a large city, Maine is a great place to do so. The coast stays cool, coming in slightly lower than Seattle’s average temperature, so you can plan to bring some long clothing. While there are small towns dotting the coast, you can also explore plenty of natural sights through the state’s national parks. Go hiking, eat some fresh seafood, and have a few lazy days in this state.

Ireland

The United Kingdom is known for its year-round temperate climate and rainy days, making Ireland a cooler option for the summer. The natural beauty of Ireland makes it stand out, and there are plenty of tours that highlight this feature. If you want to spend a day in the capital, Dublin, you can have a pint of Guinness, view stunning architecture, and explore a few museums.

Much of the US experiences high-temperature summers, but there are places both domestic and international that provide a haven away from the heat. For people who are more sensitive to the sun or who just prefer moderate temperatures, these four locations should be at the top of your summer getaway list.

From ArthurDanner.net

Countries That Require Visas To Visit

Even the most seasoned of travelers might be surprised to learn that the country they’ve chosen for their upcoming vacation requires a visa for foreign entry. Unlike a passport, which is used to verify citizenship, a visa is an endorsement placed within an individual passport, which allows the holder to visit a certain country for a designated period. Read on for a partial list of countries that require U.S. citizens to obtain visas. Also, bear in mind that waits can be lengthy, so be sure to plan ahead.

Australia

Visitors to the Land Down Under must first obtain what’s known as an Electric Travel Authority (or ETA) from their travel agent or visa service. ETAs are valid for stays of up to 90 days.

Brazil

Brushing up on Portuguese isn’t the only step Brazilian tourists have to take — a visit to the local Brazilian Consulate is also in order. There are 10 such consulates maintained throughout the United States; check this website to find the one that’s closest.

China

The process for obtaining a visa to China is similar to that of Brazil; simply contact the embassy that has jurisdiction over your area of residence. Multiple-entry visas to China are valid for up to 10 years.

India

These are available in either single-entry (valid for a single stay of up to 30 days) or multiple-entry (valid for up to 10 years) form. Note that the application process is complicated; consider enlisting the aid of a visa expedition service.

Indonesia

Visas to Indonesia are available upon arrival at Indonesian international airports. Alternately, one can apply in advance at the local consulate.

Africa

As many African countries require a visa, it’s best to check the table available here to see if your desired destination appears on it. Visitors planning multiple stops in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda should consider the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows multiple entries to these three countries in a 90-day period. Kenya also offers single-entry e-visas, available online.

Russia

As the visa process is complicated for anyone planning to visit Russia, use of a visa service is highly recommended. Note that you’ll need an official invitation — either tourist or business — before beginning the application, and that applications sent through the mail are not accepted.

From ArthurDanner.net

Which Spring Sport Should You Join?

The NCAA sports program includes many spring sports that can help college athletes achieve their athletic goals. Many of these sports help reinforce the values of teamwork and healthy competitiveness and are often effective in shaping students’ academic futures. The following spring sports are among the best for student-athletes.

Baseball and Softball

Students can choose to join college baseball and softball teams and partake in games throughout the season. Even though baseball and softball are very similar, they have some differences such as the size of the ball, the distance between bases and the types of bats that are used. Either game is great for sharpening the mind and improving fine motor skills.

Rowing

Rowing provides a great way to improve cardiovascular and muscular strength while spending time in the fresh outdoor air. Students can choose to join rowing teams with as many as eight rowers or compete as individual athletes. Practices are often held in the early morning before classes, which gives student-athletes the chance to fit in some exercise and clear their minds before learning.

Tennis

Tennis is a game that emphasizes the importance of concentration, strategy and quick movements as opponents face off against each other. This game sharpens balance and coordination and often requires a great amount of endurance when playing in long games. Men’s and women’s singles and standard doubles tournaments are separated by gender, but men and women can sometimes play together by forming mixed doubles teams.

Golf

One of the best aspects of golf is that it doesn’t require as much physical strength or endurance as other sports but still provides a great workout. Golfers use their core, upper back and arm muscles during their swings, so it’s still important to exercise these muscle groups. The object of the game is to get the ball into the hole in as few shots as possible.

Track and Field

Track and field consists of several sports that challenge students athletically in different ways. From the fast-twitch muscles needed for sprinting to the strong cardiovascular fitness that’s required for long-distance running, student-athletes can use their specific strengths by competing in specific disciplines. Track and field specialists can compete in many different NCAA championships and perhaps try out for the Olympics one day.

Spring sports offer students many opportunities to partake in athletic activities that provide both physical and academic benefits.

From ArthurDanner.com

West Coast Road Trip

Considering that the drive between the Canadian and Mexican borders only takes about 30 hours, it’s no wonder that this trip is a common bucket-list staple. However, it would be sacrilegious to approach the journey with such a strict time frame. With so much to savor along the Pacific Coast Highway, travelers should give themselves at least a week, if not more, to appreciate all that this corner of the globe has to offer. Here’s a sampling of the highlights to be found along the way.

Seattle, WA

The Emerald City is arguably the hippest destination on the West Coast. With its iconic skyline, a plethora of coffee joints and microbreweries, and happening social scene, there’s something to delight travelers from any and all walks of life. Check out The World is Fun‘s website for a list of what not to miss.

Redwood National Park, CA

Find out why these ancient trees secured a line in the famous patriotic ditty “This Land is Your Land” with a tour through this awe-inspiring park. Don’t miss the “Chandelier Tree,” with a trunk wide enough for a car to pass through. See the National Park Service website for more information.

The Napa Valley

While this is a definite must for wine lovers, teetotalers will find plenty to enjoy in this scenic region as well. Always dreamed of taking in the sunrise from a hot air balloon? Here’s the place to do it.

San Francisco

This jewel of a city needs no introduction; the most difficult part for visitors is narrowing down the list of sights to see. For help with this part, check out this list of the “Top 25 Things to Do in San Francisco” at The Crazy Tourist.

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Big Sur

Take some time to explore the best of California’s dramatic, fog-shrouded coastline while passing through this region south of Carmel. Lucky, sharp-eyed visitors may catch a glimpse of sea otters frolicking in the waves. Lodging and dining options abound; check this guide for links to the best ones.

San Diego

The world-class San Diego Zoo is just one reason to make a stop in this beautiful city. Take a tour of a craft brewery, relax on the beach, or find out why this is one of the top surfing destinations in all of California.

From Patch

Two Sports People Can Participate In After Injuries

Injuries can make it difficult, even next to impossible to participate in certain sports. However, there are still alternatives for competitive athletes in spite of an injury. There will be limitations depending on the type and severity of the injury.

But, with a little inventive ambition, an injury doesn’t have to confine someone to a sedentary lifestyle. Here are two sports for people who have experienced injuries. This is a pair of options that provide both rehabilitative benefit and competitive opportunities for the enthusiastic athlete.

Swimming & Water Sports

One of the best places for people with sports injuries is in the water. There are multiple options depending on the severity of the injury. Frequently, therapists and personal trainers strongly suggest exercises where the person’s body weight is supported. This water buoyancy allows for safe rehabilitation from severe spinal cord injuries.

People can also participate in a number of fun water sports. If the injury allows the person to swim normal strokes, they can join swim teams no matter how old they are. Many community pools offer water volleyball, water aerobics and other activities. The pool is a great place to rehab an injury. People can also enjoy competitive sports.

Rowing, Canoeing & Kayaking

Another sporting activity that can be performed after an injury is rowing. Of course, the intensity and location of the injury must be taken into account before trying this sport. One advantage of rowing is that the person doesn’t necessarily need to use their legs. This is appealing for keeping the core and upper body fit while rehabbing a leg injury.

Rowing, canoeing and kayaking as a sport are also great choices because of the intrinsic benefits. The person can explore new places and enjoy the pleasure of relaxing on the water. There are competitive options in rowing and kayaking for the hardened athlete as well. There are individual rowing competitions, or clubs that offer team events.

Remember to secure medical clearance before starting any vigorous activity after an injury. Nothing can make a former athlete more anxious than having to give up sports. However, with some intuitive forethought, there are ways to still participate in sports after an injury. These examples might prove a great place to start.

From ArthurDanner.com

Sunniest Places In The World

When it comes to planning a vacation, there are a few factors that come into play. How easy it is to get around, if it is kid-friendly, and whether it is affordable are all common factors people consider. However, many people also take into consideration a factor that can greatly affect your destination: how sunny is it? While most places experience tons of sun on occasion, these destinations are some of the sunniest in the world and may be great vacation destinations for you and your family.

Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is the capital of Arizona and one of the most populous cities in the state. Luckily for both residents and tourists, it is also one of the sunniest places in the US. The city sees nearly 4000 hours of sun per year, particularly in summer. If you plan to take a trip to the southwest, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, and also heed weather alerts. Over the past few years, the state has seen unusually high temperatures that can cause health problems. Make sure it is safe to go outside before traveling long distances.

Egypt

Egypt, one of the northernmost countries of Africa, is home to desert, pyramids, and lots of sunlight. Two of the sunniest cities in the world are located here: Aswan and Kharga. Although the days can climb far past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, lows in the Aswan region have reached roughly 50 degrees. Before hopping aboard a plane to Egypt, make sure to consult weather guides and determine what kind of clothing and other protective gear you will need on your trip.

Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are some of the sunniest pieces of land in Europe. Located between Europe and Africa, this Spanish territory receives roughly 11 hours of sunlight per day. Unlike the previous two destinations, the Canary Islands are more moderate in temperature. During the summer, you can expect highs of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and lows in the high 60s. The temperature is fairly consistent throughout the year, with maybe a 10 degree difference. Since the islands are in the middle of the sea, you can also expect wind to cool you down most days.

Although traveling to places with different climates is fun, sometimes it is nice to bask in the warm rays of the sun during your vacation. The sun has been shown to make us happier, and we can all appreciate being outside when the weather is nice. Next time you plan a vacation, consider travelling to one of these sunny places.

Originally posted on ArthurDanner.net

What is the XFL?

What do the letters X-F-L stand for? Surprisingly, nothing. Creator and CEO Vince McMahon just thought it sounded cool compared to their top competitor, the NFL. But what the XFL was, was a professional football league in the United States. It played only one season in 2001. Below, readers will learn what the XFL was, and where it’s going.

The Backstory

The XFL was a one-hundred million dollar project that combined efforts from NBC and the World Wrestling Federation (now known as World Wrestling Entertainment). The league claimed to be the polar opposite of its main competitor, the NFL. Instead, the XFL offered viewers dangerous hits, skimpier cheerleaders, and players who were making low wages – but were paid bonuses for winning.

Where Did the XFL Go Wrong

Readers may read the back story and think the XFL sounds good. And at first, it did garner high ratings. But things quickly went downhill. There were good ideas, like players choosing the name on the back of their jersey. They also implemented the sky-cam, that is used in the NFL today.

The problems quickly outnumbered the good ideas. Instead of starting the game with a coin toss, players would race to get the ball in the middle of the field. This quickly caused devastating injuries.

Players were encouraged to date cheerleaders, and wrestling-like storylines were implemented. This took away from the football aspect, and made it more like wrestling.

Cheerleaders were displayed in very little clothing, and women were in hot tubs behind the end zone. This caused activists to take a stance.

All of this caused the ratings to plummet so badly that a second season was never played.

The Comeback

The XFL is planning a new season in 2020. This time, it’s owned by Vince McMahon’s Alpha Entertainment. The WWE and NBC have no stake.

Vince McMahon cites two key differences this time. While the “sports entertainment” component will still be a part of the XFL, it won’t be as outlandish and blatant as the earlier league. The second difference is that the rules and overall game will be purposefully simpler than those of the NFL. This is strategic as many fans claim the NFL makes the rules too complicated.

The 2020 season of the XFL was recently announced, so there’s not much to know just yet. Excitement will continue to build as 2020 is approached.

Originally posted on ArthurDanner.com