Introduction
In the realm of fitness for men over 40, achieving optimal health and wellness requires a strategic approach to workouts. At Beastingover40 and Rippedover45-X, we understand the unique needs of this demographic and have crafted a comprehensive guide to help you maximize your fitness potential. Our expert-backed workout routines and lifestyle tips are designed to outperform the competition and elevate your overall well-being.
Understanding the Challenges
The Biological Shift
Entering your 40s heralds a significant biological shift, demanding a recalibration of your fitness regimen. Hormonal changes, metabolism fluctuations, and muscle loss necessitate a targeted exercise routine.
Joint Health Matters
With age comes increased susceptibility to joint issues. Our workout routines prioritize joint-friendly exercises, ensuring you build strength without compromising your body’s structural integrity.
Tailored Workout Routines
Strength Training for Longevity
Targeting Key Muscle Groups
Engage in compound exercises such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses to stimulate multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This not only maximizes your workout efficiency but also promotes overall strength and resilience.
Progressive Overload Techniques
Incorporate progressive overload techniques like pyramid training and supersets to challenge your muscles progressively. This promotes sustained growth and prevents plateaus in your fitness journey.
Cardiovascular Health: More Than Just Running
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
Explore the benefits of HIIT, a time-efficient approach to cardiovascular fitness. Short bursts of intense activity followed by brief rest periods enhance endurance, metabolism, and fat loss.
Low-Impact Options
Consider low-impact alternatives like cycling or swimming to protect your joints while maintaining cardiovascular health. These activities minimize stress on your body while delivering excellent fitness results.
Nutrition Essentials
Fueling Your Performance
Protein-Rich Diet
Prioritize lean protein sources like poultry, fish, and plant-based options to support muscle repair and growth. Adequate protein intake is crucial for maintaining optimal fitness, especially as you age.
Nutrient-Dense Foods
Load up on nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamins and minerals to fortify your body against age-related decline. A balanced diet enhances overall well-being and complements your workout efforts.
Lifestyle Optimization
Quality Sleep for Recovery
Recognize the pivotal role of sleep in your fitness journey. Quality rest accelerates recovery, supports hormone balance, and enhances overall vitality. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.
Stress Management Techniques
Incorporate stress management techniques like meditation and yoga into your routine. Chronic stress can hinder fitness progress and contribute to various health issues, making it imperative to address and mitigate.
Conclusion
At Beastingover40 and Rippedover45-X we are committed to empowering men over 40 to achieve peak fitness and well-being. Our meticulously crafted workout routines, nutrition insights, and lifestyle optimization tips are tailored to surpass expectations and position you at the forefront of the fitness landscape. Embrace the transformative power of targeted fitness, and let’s redefine what it means to thrive after 40.
Introduction
As men age, maintaining muscle mass, cognitive sharpness, and overall vitality becomes a priority. In this guide, we delve into the transformative potential of creatine for men over 45. From supporting physical performance to enhancing cognitive function, creatine emerges as a fountain of youth for aging men.
Creatine: A Brief Overview
Understanding Creatine’s Role Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in small amounts in certain foods and synthesized by the body. It plays a crucial role in energy production, particularly during short bursts of high-intensity activities.
Why Creatine Matters for Men 40+ As men age, muscle mass tends to decline, and energy levels may decrease. Creatine becomes a valuable ally in maintaining muscle strength, supporting physical performance, and potentially addressing age-related cognitive decline.
Amazon Link: Creatine Supplement
Benefits of Creatine for Men Over 45
1. Muscle Strength and Mass Creatine supplementation has been extensively studied for its ability to enhance muscle strength and promote lean muscle mass. For men over 45, this can be particularly beneficial in counteracting age-related muscle loss.
2. Cognitive Function Emerging research suggests that creatine may have cognitive benefits, including improved memory and executive function. As cognitive decline becomes a concern with aging, creatine stands out as a potential cognitive enhancer.
3. Energy Levels and Physical Performance Creatine plays a pivotal role in the ATP-PCr system, a key energy pathway during short bursts of intense activity. By replenishing ATP stores, creatine can contribute to sustained energy levels and improved physical performance.
4. Bone Health While more research is needed, some studies suggest a potential link between creatine supplementation and improved bone health. This becomes crucial for men over 45, as maintaining bone density is essential for overall well-being.
Dosage Recommendations and Considerations
1. Loading Phase vs. Maintenance Phase For those new to creatine, a loading phase of 20 grams per day (divided into 4 doses) for 5–7 days can saturate muscle creatine stores quickly. After the loading phase, a maintenance dose of 3–5 grams per day is typically sufficient.
2. Individual Response Individual response to creatine varies. Some may experience benefits quickly, while others may take a few weeks. Monitoring personal response and adjusting dosage accordingly is recommended.
3. Hydration Creatine may increase water content in muscle cells. Staying adequately hydrated is essential to maximize its benefits and prevent potential side effects like dehydration.
FAQs
Is Creatine Safe for Men Over 45? Yes, creatine is generally safe for men over 45 when taken within recommended dosages. However, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation is advisable.
Can Creatine Cause Kidney Damage? Research suggests that creatine is safe for the kidneys when used within recommended doses. Individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions should consult with a healthcare provider.
Should I Take Creatine on Rest Days? Yes, it’s beneficial to maintain creatine levels on rest days to support overall muscle health and recovery.
Can Creatine Replace a Balanced Diet? While creatine provides specific benefits, it should complement, not replace, a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
Are There Cognitive Benefits for Men Over 45? Emerging research indicates potential cognitive benefits for individuals over 45. However, more research is needed to establish definitive conclusions.
Where Can I Purchase High-Quality Creatine Supplements? High-quality creatine supplements can be found at reputable health stores, pharmacies, and online platforms. Ensure they meet regulatory standards and consult reviews.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creatine emerges as a powerful ally for men over 45, offering benefits that span from muscle strength and mass to cognitive function. By incorporating creatine into a well-rounded health regimen, aging men can potentially unlock the fountain of youth, supporting a vibrant and fulfilling life.
Introduction
As men age, the need for targeted nutritional support becomes paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the benefits and necessity of the top 5 supplements for men over 45. From supporting cardiovascular health to aiding weight management, these supplements are tailored to address the specific needs of men entering their mid-40s and beyond.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Nourishing Your Body and Mind
Understanding the Role of Omega-3 Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fish oil, are essential for heart health, cognitive function, and joint health. For men over 45, the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3 can be crucial in maintaining joint flexibility and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Benefits for Men Over 45 As men age, the risk of heart disease and cognitive decline increases. Omega-3 helps counteract these effects by promoting heart health, supporting brain function, and easing joint discomfort, contributing to overall vitality.
Here is a link on Amazon Click Here
Coenzyme Q10 (Q10): Energize Your Cells
Unveiling the Significance of Q10 Coenzyme Q10, a compound naturally produced by the body, plays a crucial role in cellular energy production. For men over 45, the body’s natural Q10 production may decline, leading to fatigue and decreased vitality.
How Q10 Addresses Specific Needs for Men Over 45 Supplementing with Q10 can replenish dwindling levels, boosting energy, supporting heart health, and aiding in the management of age-related fatigue. It becomes a vital ally in maintaining an active and energetic lifestyle.
Here is a link on Amazon Click Here
Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin for Aging Well
The Pivotal Role of Vitamin D in Aging Vitamin D, often referred to as the sunshine vitamin, is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. As men age, maintaining bone density and a robust immune system becomes increasingly important.
Tailored Benefits for Men in Their Mid-40s and Beyond Vitamin D, especially when obtained through safe sun exposure or supplementation, supports bone health, helps prevent osteoporosis, and boosts the immune system. Its mood-regulating properties can also contribute to mental well-being in the later stages of life.
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Whey Isolate: Building Blocks for Aging Muscles
Protein Needs for Aging Men Maintaining muscle mass becomes challenging as men age. Whey isolate, a high-quality protein source, becomes essential for preserving muscle mass and supporting weight management.
How Whey Isolate Supports Muscle Health and Weight Management Whey isolate, rich in essential amino acids, aids in muscle recovery and helps manage weight by promoting a feeling of fullness. For men over 45, incorporating whey isolate into their diet supports physical strength and overall well-being.
For an Amazon Link Click Here
Zinc: The Guardian of Men’s Health
Importance of Zinc in Men’s Health Zinc is a vital mineral for various bodily functions, including immune support, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. As men age, maintaining optimal zinc levels becomes crucial for overall health.
Addressing Age-Related Concerns with Zinc Supplementation Supplementing with zinc supports immune function, helps maintain prostate health, and aids in wound healing. For men over 45, ensuring adequate zinc intake becomes a proactive step in safeguarding against age-related health challenges.
For an Amazon Link Click Here
Berberine for Weight Loss: Nature’s Secret Weapon
Introduction to Berberine Berberine, extracted from plants, is gaining recognition for its potential in weight management and metabolic support. As metabolism tends to slow down with age, finding natural solutions for weight control becomes vital.
Exploring Its Role in Weight Loss for Men Over 45 Berberine influences metabolism, enhances insulin sensitivity, and aids in weight loss. For men over 45 struggling with weight management, incorporating berberine into their routine can be a natural and effective solution.
Top 5 Supplements for Men Over 45: A Comprehensive Guide
Synergies and Optimal Combinations These top 5 supplements can work synergistically, enhancing their individual benefits. Combining them in optimal doses supports overall health, vitality, and the management of age-related concerns.
Dosage Recommendations and Potential Side Effects While generally safe, it’s crucial to follow recommended dosages for each supplement. Consultation with a healthcare provider can ensure an effective and safe supplementation routine. Potential side effects are typically mild and transient.
Considering Individual Health Conditions Individual health conditions may influence the choice and dosage of these supplements. Personalized advice from healthcare professionals ensures tailored supplementation for specific health needs.
FAQs
Are These Supplements Safe for Daily Use? Yes, when taken within recommended dosages, these supplements are generally safe for daily use. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
Can I Take These Supplements Together? Combining these supplements can be beneficial, but it’s crucial to ensure proper dosages. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
Is There a Specific Time to Take These Supplements? While some may be taken together, specific timings can optimize absorption. For detailed advice, consult your healthcare provider.
Are There Potential Side Effects of These Supplements? Though generally safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects. Consult your healthcare provider if you notice any adverse reactions.
Can These Supplements Replace a Balanced Diet? Supplements complement but don’t replace a balanced diet. Aim for a diverse, nutrient-rich diet alongside supplementation.
Where Can I Purchase High-Quality Supplements? Reputable health stores, pharmacies, and online platforms offer high-quality supplements. Ensure they meet regulatory standards and consult reviews.
Conclusion
In conclusion, embracing a proactive approach to health through the incorporation of these top 5 supplements can significantly enhance the well-being of men over 45. Tailor your supplementation to individual needs, stay informed, and enjoy a vibrant and fulfilling life.
There are few pleasures in life as satisfying as big biceps and triceps.
If you want to get the most out of your arm workouts, it’s important to know which bicep exercises work for building mass, and which tricep exercises will help bring out that coveted “peak.”
In this article, we’ll go over some bicep and triceps training tips that can help pack on serious size.
With all of the information provided, we’ll set you off on a 1-month challenge for you to see how much your arms can actually grow!
Now let’s get to the main sauce!
Arm Anatomy
Before we get to the actionable part where we tell you exactly what to do to grow your arms, let’s briefly explain the anatomy of your arms, to better understand how to actually stimulate them.
Here’s a simple breakdown – The upper arm is made of two primary muscle groups:
- The biceps
- The triceps
These are opposite in placement and function, meaning that when one of them contracts, the other relaxes.
The Biceps
This first muscle group is responsible for flexion of the arm at the elbow, as well as rotation of the wrist.
The biceps are engaged during pulling movements, such as pull-ups, rows, and bicep curls.
Its name “biceps” is derived from “bi” meaning “two” and “ceps” meaning “head”, implying that the bicep is a two-headed muscle.
The long head of the biceps is found on the outside of the arm and it forms the so-desired “bicep peak”.
Oppositely, the short head is on the inside of the arm and gives a bulkier, wider look to the arm.
The Triceps
Though the biceps is commonly targeted to grow bigger arms, the truth is that the triceps make up the bigger portion of your upper arm.
By the name, you can tell that the tricep is a 3-headed muscle, that has two heads on the inside of the arm, and one head on the side of the arm.
When properly developed, the triceps will give your arm a more swept, aesthetically pleasing look.
Oh, and it will support you in your other pushing movements!
Triceps are engaged during pushing movements, such as bench press, overhead press, triceps press, dips, push-ups, etc.
The 3-Week Big Guns Challenge
Alright, to really target the arms now, we have to pick exercises that engage all the zones of both muscle groups.
Below, you can find a list of exercises for the biceps and the triceps.
Pick two for each muscle group and carry on with reading our guidelines towards week 1!
| Biceps Exercises | Triceps Exercises |
| Straight Barbell Curls | Close Grip Bench Press |
| Standing Alternating Dumbbell Curls | Overhead Dumbbell Triceps Press |
| Close Grip Z-Bar Curls | Straight Bar Cable Pressdown |
| Hammer Curls | Dumbbell Kickback |
| Preacher Curls | Parallel Bar Dips |
| Incline Dumbbell Curls | Bench Tricep Dips |
Week 1
In week 1 of the challenge, you have two very simple tasks:
- Pick one biceps exercise and place it in your back day training routine, doing 4 high-effort sets of 8-10 repetitions, taken close to failure
- Pick one triceps exercise and place it in your chest day training routine, doing 4 high-effort sets of 8-10 repetitions, taken close to failure.
NOTE: If you’re training chest and back twice in a week, do this twice with different exercises every time. Track your recovery and if pushing/pulling performance starts lagging, reduce direct arm work volume as needed.
Week 2
During the second portion of this challenge, you will take the same concept and apply one fundamental principle of muscle growth, namely progressive overload.
Progressive overload implies an increase in training load, which can be done by either means:
- Increasing the working weight
- Increasing the number of repetitions
- Increasing the number of sets
And so, in week 2 of the challenge, copy the exact same thing you did in week 1, but do an extra rep and weight here and there.
Focus your effort!
Week 3
In week 3 of this challenge, it is time to take a rest from the same exercises you’ve been overloading on for the past two weeks and do something else.
Pick one different exercise for the biceps and one for the triceps, add it to your back/chest days respectively just like you did previously.
HOWEVER, instead of focusing on lifting as heavy as possible, lift a challenging weight but maintain a slow, focused pace that places all the tension on the working muscle groups.
This will again be means of progressively overloading, as you are increasing the mechanical tension, but in a way less aggressive manner that does not require redline exertion.
Rinse And Repeat…
The 3-week challenge wasn’t really made to shortcut your way to 18-inch guns…
In reality, this challenge is about feeling and doing what you have to do consistently, to grow your guns big.
After week 3 is over, take these same principles and exercises and continue doing what you’ve been doing so far – Progressively training!
Pair this with a slight caloric surplus and you will be well on your way to increasing the size of your arms.
Pro-Tips
If you really want to achieve results going through this challenge, you will need some further knowledge.
Here are some tips for you:
- When picking biceps exercises, pick ones with different wrist positions – An exercise with supinated wrists (palms facing the front) will target the bicep peak, while a pronated wrist would engage the short head on the inside of the arm.
- Do the same for triceps – Pick movements where the elbows are at different positions relative to the body
- Overload on pushing/pulling exercises that target the biceps/triceps indirectly (i.e pull-ups, chest presses, etc.)
- Flex your arms! Do double biceps, side triceps and other bodybuilding poses – These will bring out the details in your arms!
- Stay consistent – Arms are long and hard to fill out! Focus your effort and results will be seen over time.
Losing Belly Fat Over 50: A Guide for Maintaining a Healthy Midsection
Introduction: As you age, losing belly fat can become more difficult. Hormonal changes, a slowing metabolism, and decreased physical activity can all contribute to an expanding waistline.
But, with the right approach, it’s possible to lose belly fat and maintain a healthy midsection, even over the age of 50. In this guide, we’ll explore the best strategies for losing belly fat, including diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Understanding the Causes of Belly Fat
Belly fat is a common problem for people over the age of 50, and it can have a significant impact on your health. So, it’s important to understand what causes this type of fat to accumulate in the first place.
Some of the most common causes of belly fat include:
- Hormonal changes: As women approach menopause, they may experience a decline in estrogen levels, which can cause fat to accumulate in the abdominal area In men a decrease testosterone produces the same effect.
- A slowing metabolism: As you age, your metabolism naturally slows down, making it harder to burn calories and lose weight.
- Decreased physical activity: As you get older, you may become less active, leading to a decline in muscle mass and an increase in body fat.
- Poor diet: Eating a diet that is high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to weight gain and an accumulation of belly fat.
Diet Changes for Losing Belly Fat Over 50
Diet plays a major role in losing belly fat, and there are several changes you can make to support your weight loss goals. Here are some tips for a healthier diet:
- Eat more protein: Protein is an important nutrient for building and maintaining muscle mass, and it can also help you feel full and satisfied after eating. I recommend at least 1 gram per pound of bodyweight.
- Reduce sugar and processed foods: These types of foods can cause spikes in insulin, leading to the accumulation of belly fat.
- Eat more fiber: Fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the urge to snack between meals.
- Limit alcohol: Alcohol is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain, especially in the abdominal area.
Exercise for Losing Belly Fat Over 50
Exercise is an essential component of losing belly fat, and there are several types of workouts that can help you reach your weight loss goals. Here are some tips for exercise:
- Strength training: Building muscle through strength training can help increase your metabolism and support weight loss, especially in the abdominal area.
- Aerobic exercise: Cardio workouts, such as walking, jogging, or cycling, can help you burn calories and lose weight.
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT): HIIT workouts are short, intense bursts of exercise that can be highly effective for weight loss, especially when combined with strength training.
- Stretching and yoga: Stretching and yoga can help improve flexibility and reduce stress, which can contribute to weight gain and an accumulation of belly fat.
Lifestyle Changes for Losing Belly Fat Over 50
In addition to diet and exercise, there are several lifestyle changes that can help you lose belly fat and maintain a healthy midsection. Here are some tips for a healthier lifestyle:
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is important for overall health, and it can also help regulate hormones and support weight loss. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
- Reduce stress: Stress can trigger the release of cortisol, a hormone that contributes to the accumulation of belly fat. Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or exercise.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can help you feel full and reduce the urge to snack on unhealthy foods. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.
- Limit screen time: Spending too much time in front of screens, such as televisions and computers, can contribute to sedentary behavior and weight gain. Limit screen time to 2 hours or less per day.
FAQs for Losing Belly Fat Over 50
Q: How can I lose belly fat if I have a slow metabolism?
A: While a slowing metabolism can make it more difficult to lose weight, it’s still possible to lose belly fat through a combination of diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. Focus on eating a healthy, balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity, such as strength training and cardio workouts.
Q: Is it possible to lose belly fat without diet and exercise?
A: While diet and exercise are important components of weight loss, lifestyle changes can also play a role in losing belly fat. Try reducing stress, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and limiting screen time to support your weight loss goals.
Q: How long does it take to lose belly fat over 50?
A: The amount of time it takes to lose belly fat can vary depending on several factors, including diet, exercise, and overall health. With a combination of healthy habits, it’s possible to see significant results within a few months.
Conclusion: Losing belly fat over 50 can be challenging, but with the right approach, it’s possible to achieve your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy midsection. Focus on diet changes, such as eating more protein and fiber and reducing sugar and processed foods. Incorporate exercise into your routine, including strength training, cardio, and HIIT workouts. And, make lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, reducing stress, staying hydrated, and limiting screen time. With persistence and dedication, you can lose belly fat and improve your health and well-being.
Ok here is the routine . If your over 40 this is a good workout to add muscle to your chest and shoulders
100 Rollouts 4 sets of 25
Pec Deck 1 warmup x 25 working sets 3 x 10-12
Reverse grip Bench Press on Smith Machine 1 warmup x 15 working sets 3 x 10-12
Inline Machine Press s/s with Hex Press 1 warmup x 15 working sets 3 x 10-15
Dumbell Flyes 1 Warmup x 20 working sets 3 x 15
Decline Press s/s with Pushups 1 warmup x 15 3 working sets 10-12 (or AMRAP on Pushups)
Tri-Set (One after the other non stop) 1 Warmup of each x 15 Arnold Press working sets 3 x 8-10 Side Laterals working sets 3 x 8-10 Reverse Pec Deck working sets 3 x 8-10
So to reiterate on the tri-set Do 1 set Arnolds followed by Side Laterals followed by Reverse Pec Deck Repeat 3 times
Over 40 Back day. Follow Anthony and Ali as we but together a big back day working on Lat width and thickness.
The following is the big back workout
100 x rollouts (4 x 25 alternate wide and narrow grip)
Low Cable Pulls 1 x 20 warmup 3 x 10-12 working sets
Barbell Rows 1 x 10 warmup 3 x 10-12 working sets
Wide Grip Pulldowns 1 x 15 warmup 3 x 10-12 working sets
Narrow Grip Pulldowns 1 x 20 warmup 3 x 10-12 working sets
Narrow Grip Rows 1 x 15 warmup 3 x 10-12 working sets P
Please visit us at www.beastingover40.com and for diets etc visit www.trans4m.me
Barbells VS Dumbbells – Which One’s Better?
In the modern-day world, training your body usually happens in the gym, where you have a variety of dumbbell, barbell and machine exercises.
In the context of free weight, however, there has been one question floating around – What’s better, barbells or dumbbells?
If you’ve asked yourself this, keep reading because in this article we’ll underline the differences and benefits of both barbells and dumbbells, to help you create your perfect workout plan.
The Specifics
One of the main rules of weight training is to use a variety of equipment, angles and types of grip.
The reason why this is important, is because even a slight change in the grip or angle of a given exercise, changes the specifics of that same exercise.
What this means is that a different type of equipment or a different angle/grip will shift the tension towards different muscles/zones of the worked muscle group.
For instance, the flat bench press will mainly engage your mid and lower chest, while also engaging the triceps and shoulders.
However, an incline bench press will put more tension on the upper portion of the chest, along with increased tension for the shoulders.
From this information, we can conclude that both barbells and dumbbells have their application and there really isn’t a “better” one.
The point is to use each type of equipment for its designated purposes, in accordance with what your goal is.
The Benefits Of Barbells
Barbells are without a doubt one of the most effective ways to stimulate the musculature, whether we’re talking about muscle growth or training during the fat loss phase.
Here’s why:
- Barbells allow you to lift heavier weights
Because there is generally a fixed point between the working limbs, barbells allow you to lift heavier weights in general.
This is also perhaps because of the fact that barbell exercises are more stabilized by nature, thus allowing your body to activate more of your fast-twitch muscle fibers.
You can check this for yourself – If you’re barbell bench pressing 80 kg for reps, odds are that you won’t be able to dumbbell press 40 kg on each hand as easily.
2. Easier Realization Of Training Principles
When it comes to muscular development, there is one very important principle to consider.
That is namely progressive overload, which implies that you should, over time, progressively increase the demand upon the musculature (i.e increasing weight, reps, sets, etc.)
Because barbells allow you to lift heavier weights with more stability, increasing your workload is an easy task with barbells, as opposed to dumbbells
Both of these benefits allow for greater working volume overall, which means that barbells are especially good during periods of gaining muscle mass.
The Benefits Of Dumbbells
Though barbells have a load of benefits when it comes to muscular development, that doesn’t mean dumbbells should be totally excluded.
Here are the main benefits of dumbbells:
- Bringing up weaker muscle groups
Because dumbbells inevitably make you use each side of your body separately, they can be one of your best picks when you’re trying to bring up your weaker side.
The individual load on each side simply doesn’t allow your stronger side to overtake the movement, thus creating sufficient stimulation on the side that creates asymmetry.
2. Muscle Unit Activation
One of the most crucial factors when it comes to lifting heavy weights is the muscle unit (muscle fiber) activation.
With barbells, movements are generally fixed in a shorter range of motion, while dumbbells allow for greater movement of the arms.
This, therefore, grants increased muscle activation, even on fundamental exercises like the bench press
Take Home Message
In the context of better overall development, there isn’t really a winner in the fight between barbells vs. dumbbells…
Both have their benefits, which is why you should rather rely on a mix of the two, in your workout regimen.
Use barbells when you want to heavily target progressive overload and lift the heaviest weight possible.
Use dumbbells when you want to bring up your weaker side and work more on joint stability, rather than maximum strength.
Tell us your favorite barbell/dumbbell exercises in the comment section below!
When it comes to training, whether it is professional sports or general training, there are two main types of activity one can do.
Those two types are namely “anaerobic” and “aerobic” training, each of which provides a different stimulus for the body and thus, a different end result.
In this article, you’re going to learn more about these two types, which one is better for specific goals, and how to combine them.
So without further ado, let’s get to it!
Anaerobic & Aerobic Processes
Though these two terms may sound a bit complex, their meaning is quite simple
The word “Anaerobic” comes from the following Greek words:
- An – Meaning “without”
- Aer – Meaning “air”
- Bios – Meaning “life”
In simple words, all anaerobic processes in the body do not require oxygen to run.
Oppositely, all aerobic processes in the body DO require oxygen to function.
Examples Of Anaerobic Activities
Anaerobic training activities are basically any type of training that requires you to do a short, power-burst bout.
Here are some examples of anaerobic training activities:
- Sprinting
- Weightlifting
- Climbing
- Broad jumping
Because of the nature of anaerobic activities (short, power-burst movements), this type of training mainly develops muscle strength, size, strength endurance and explosiveness.
Examples Of Aerobic Activities
Contrary to anaerobic activities, we have aerobic activities, which are basically any low-intensity exercises that are long in duration.
Here are examples of aerobic activities:
- Jogging
- Skipping rope
- Swimming
- Cycling
Unlike anaerobic activities, aerobic training mainly develops the cardiovascular & respiratory systems (heart & lungs).
With this type of training, your body becomes more efficient at releasing energy with the help of oxygen.
Which Type Of Training Is Better?
As we already established, anaerobic training will stimulate the development of your musculature and its main properties – Strength, strength endurance & explosiveness.
On the other hand, with aerobic training you will improve the work of your heart and lungs.
And so, the answer to the question “which type of training is better?” is quite simple… It depends on the context!
Are you someone who wants to look better? Focus your training around anaerobic activities and throw in some aerobic activities here and there.
Or, if you’re someone who just looks to improve their endurance in the long run, focus on aerobic activities that are low in intensity and long in duration.
Ultimately, if you’re not a professional athlete, you would be best off combining both types of training and tipping the scales in favor of the one that matches your goals the most.
Conclusion
Though most people just LOVE to compare different types of training and dub some “better than others”, one thing remains true…
That is namely the fact that the body is a complex machine, capable of a MULTITUDE of movements.
The more movements you do and the more you engage in different types of activities, the more you develop the systems and components (muscles) that make those activities possible.
Therefore, this approach will lead to a functionally and visually better physique.
What is YOUR approach to training? Comment down below!
The Prostate And Its Common Problems
The prostate is a gland that is only found in the male body and is about the size of a walnut.
It is found right in front of the rectum and goes around the urethra – the tube that leads urine out of the body.
The prostate’s main function is to produce a white liquid, which protects and feeds the sperm.
However, as men grow older, certain changes occur, leading to possible.
Common Prostate Problems
Prostate dysfunction is often the reason for urination incontinence in men and is, in fact, one of the most common problems that men encounter during their mid to older years.
Let’s have a look at the most common prostate issues and their symptoms.
- Prostate cancer
In men, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer, and though that sounds bad, it is also the easiest type of cancer to treat in men.
Here are some of the common prostate cancer symptoms:
● Blood in the urine
● Weak or interrupted urine flow
● Abnormally frequent urination
Usually doesn’t have symptoms in the first stages. That’s why it’s good to get your PSA (Prostate-specific Antigen) taken from a blood test every 2-3 years after turning 40.
- Prostatitis
This is another common prostate problem, which is essentially an inflammation of the prostate gland, which can be quite painful, but gets better over time in most cases.
Prostatitis is possible in men of all age groups, but it occurs more frequently in younger men between 30 and 50.
Here are the common symptoms of prostatitis:
● Pain when urinating/pooping
● Pain around the penis/testicles/lower back
● Problems starting/stopping peeing
- Prostate enlargement
Prostate enlargement or, in scientific terms, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland.
This is a common condition in older men, where the following symptoms are usually experienced:
● Loss of bladder control
● Difficulty urinating
● Weak stream
The thing with all 3 of these possible prostate problems is that similar symptoms accompany most issues.
This means that if you experience any pain when urinating or consistent aches around the penis and lower abdomen, your best bet is to consult with your doctor.
Why Do Prostate Problems Lead To Urination Issues?
As you learned at the beginning of this article, the prostate surrounds the urethra, meaning that if the prostate gland grows too big, it will press against the urethra.
This pressure, in turn, will make the bladder work twice as hard to get through the blockage.
This is a common issue referred to as “overactive bladder,” and if you have it, you may experience loss of bladder control or, in a better case, a frequent need to urinate.
If any of the symptoms discussed here pops up, do advise your medical professional and start the necessary treatment to alleviate the symptoms and get your prostate back to normal.
Remember, though, that prostate dysfunction treatment takes time, and it is usually accompanied by discomfort due to the loss of bladder control/incontinence.
This may require the use of urological incontinence pads, which offer absorption of any urine and neutralization of its smell.
Conclusion
The prostate is one weird gland – It is responsible for fertility, but not for erections, and it gets enlarged, rather than shrunk, over time.
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, your best bet would be to rely on your doctor’s professional medical advice rather than information on the internet.
Stay healthy!
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