Core exercises: Beyond your average abs routine

from the Mayo Clinic
"A well-balanced core exercise routine focuses on more than your abs. Did you know that your core is where all movement in your body originates? Core exercises are an important part of overall fitness training that, except for the occasional sit-up or crunch, are often neglected. Core strengthening requires the regular and proper exercise of your body's 29 core muscles. Body position and alignment are crucial when performing core exercises. When you get started it is a good idea to have a fitness trainer or physical therapist help you perfect your techinique. For the full story click here.

Tips to Stay Fit During the Holidays from ACE

The Average Thanksgiving Meal has 3,000 Calories and 229 Grams of Fat. The American Council on Exercise Recommends:

You can make up for a feast of rich, higher- fat foods with lighter, lower-fat meals for the next couple of days. Plan for the big meal that day with a low-calorie, low-fat breakfast and lunch. Never skip meals, just limit them.
Look back and assess your diet over the past few days by recording your caloric intake with a food diary. Have you been over-indulging at recent party feasts? Are there additional celebrations looming? Try eating sensibly in order to afford the extra calories come meal time.
Don’t panic or feel guilty if your diet seems to have gotten out of hand. When you balance your intake over several days, you have ample time to regain control.
Make physical activity a regular habit. Beyond burning calories, exercise is essential for good health, stress management (oftentimes a challenge during the busy holiday season) and overall well-being. Working out consistently will help jump-start your metabolism allowing you to burn more of those calories from your holiday binge.
Have a salad, light soup or some fruit and veggies before leaving home or prior to your meal. This way you will feel fuller and less likely to overeat.
Select only your favorite foods at a holiday buffet and let other guests enjoy traditional fare like nuts, rolls and sweet potatoes.
Practice portion control. A smaller serving of the real thing can be very satisfying and calorie-trimming.
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Fit Facts are reprinted from ACE FitnessMatters® magazine permission granted.