Lynbrook | New Hyde Park | NY

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3 Weightlifting Myths: Busted!

Are you getting started on building your new body for the New Year, but hesitant to add in a proper strength training routine? Here are three strength training myths that may ease your mind about picking up some “heavy” weights this winter:

  • Lifting heavy weights will make me bulky: Wrong! Lifting heavy weight won’t make you bulky, eating a lot of calories will though. Heavy is a relative term and depends on the individual; a proper strength training routine will help you develop lean muscle and burn more calories while doing nothing. That’s right, nothing… the more lean muscle you have on your body the higher your metabolism will be. The only way to do this is to lift those weights you may have thought were too much for you.
  • “I don’t want to get too big- just tone”: This is one of the most common things said when referring to strength training or weight lifting. “Tone” is a misused term and when talking about your muscles they can only do one of two things; get bigger or get smaller. When you are “toned” it just means that your muscle is more visible but other than that it is impossible to sculpt yourself any other way. So in actuality, your muscles got bigger and you appear more “toned” because they are more visible.
  • “Low weight, High reps!”: A commonly misused phrase, this gives people a misconception of what they need to be doing and may not be appropriate for everyone. Often this will lead to a very light weight being used in hopes that you can do 30 of them and it will be sufficient. For example, when doing a set of 15 repetitions, you want to choose a weight that is challenging from the start and is quite hard towards rep number 14 & 15. If you can easily get to 15 reps with your weight it may be too light- the last four to five reps should be challenging, yet do-able!

 

By Tyler Palmquist

Staying Motivated Beyond January

The New Year is often thought of as an opportunity to make ourselves better. Many resolutions are made to create healthier lifestyles and create changes. It is important to keep this mentality going throughout the rest of the year- not just during the first month of the year. Here are a few tips to stay on track with your resolutions!

Workout Buddies. Bring a friend along on your morning walks or sign up for the gym together! Having someone with you will not only help keep you accountable, but make exercising more enjoyable.

Find Something You Like. Make your workouts enjoyable by choosing something you like to do! Maybe the treadmill seems dreary, but biking is more enjoyable. Strength training may seem intimidating, but the machine circuit is the perfect challenge.

Rewards. We all have big goals, but it’s important to set small goals along the way. Treat yourself to something that will keep you on the path to success. Splurge on a new pair of workout shoes or buy a fun water bottle when you reach those goals.

Change Takes Time. Remember that changes are not going to occur overnight. Center your attention towards each day and making healthy choices. Habits take time to form just as they are hard to break. It’s important to focus on the small accomplishments along the way!

 

By Louise Mills-Strasser

Member Spotlight: Cathy

Since joining Peak 5 months ago, I have seen many improvements in my healthy – I have more energy, my blood pressure is down, I sleep better, and I am down quite a few pounds. When I joined Peak, it was never about “the number” or how many pounds I “lost,” it was about changing my eating habits and my lifestyle.

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Tyler has always made me feel welcome and worthwhile from day one. He has never judged me or made me feel like I wouldn’t succeed. He has been my steadfast supporter, my cheerleader, and my voice of reason when I needed it. I have truly enjoyed working with him and look forward to much more success under his guidance.

-Cathieann Rowland

Transformation Tuesday: Debra’s Story

My name is Debra Scuderi and I have been struggling with my weight for a while. I have suffered from multiple injuries and have had many other trainers before who have exacerbated those injuries.  I used to be overweight and not happy with myself until I joined the 5 Week Weight Loss Program at Peak Performance. I started to train with my exercise physiologist, Sally, and have dropped 6 pounds in a month!

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I am now so much happier and confident with myself. I have already lost 6 lbs and am continuing to lose weight through healthy eating and regular exercise. I have learned so much from Peak Performance! I feel great and am very lucky to have met Sally and have her help me! Thank you Peak Performance and Sally!!

Motivation Monday: Sue’s Story

Today we share the success story of our member Sue!

Her energy and excitement is contagious and we couldn’t be more proud of her journey.sue

“My journey with Peak Performance began with PT after falling and suffering a fractured shoulder. I started PT last October and had a very successful experience. Every therapist and assistant was amazing! As I did my therapy exercises each week I noticed signs displayed advertising their guaranteed weight loss program. I had a strong desire to finally lose weight as it was something I battled with most of my life. After speaking with Pam Geisel, one of the Physiologists, I became more excited and encouraged. I started working out under Pam’s guidance in March. I joined the Guaranteed Weight Loss program that included both exercise and nutrition. I have spent about eight months working weekly with Pam and I cannot say enough good things about the program. I have lost close to 30 lbs. and dropped several clothing sizes. I not only feel better physically, but emotionally too. I have reached a goal that I never thought possible. Pam has treated me with encouragement, enthusiasm and kindness. Thank you for helping me to achieve my goals! Thank you so much Pam for everything!”