Hip flexors: stretching, strengthening, and mobility?
What advice or routine would you point someone to if they have very tight hip flexors? I've really been struggling with my hips for a while, and it's impeding my squat at the bottom of the motion. I'm built like a corgi with a short/stocky frame, and my most comfortable squat posture (not super upright, wider stance) is more hip-dominant. Altering my squat position isn't very easy, as I have chondromalacia in my knees, and the above stance feels safest and most comfortable to me. I've tried warm ups and some stretches, but it doesn't seem to be helping much. How can I improve my hip mobility/tightness/strength? How many times a week would you do some sort of work for a problem muscle like this? Thanks again guys, I love being a pest in your inbox 🥳
Continuous blood glucose monitors
Hey guys! I’ve been noticing a lot of people in social media lately wearing blood glucose monitors and tracking their blood sugar spikes after eating different foods. Some people claim that blood sugar spikes are bad and can lead to weight gain, or are a sign of insulin resistance, is this true? Is there any need for an average person to wear one of these monitors? Should I be worried about foods that spike my blood sugar from a health standpoint? Thanks!
Nutrition coaches: yay or nay?
Hey guys, me again! I see personal trainers everywhere, but very few nutrition coaches. Is there a reason for this? Is a nutrition certification a waste of time (outside of personal education) or not a respected certification? When does someone need a nutrition coach, and when should they see a dietician? I'd especially love your opinion on this, Marianna!
Kettlebells: Russian Hardstyle
In 2013 I was introduced to kettlebells, fell head over heals in love & eventually became certified as a KB Instructor through StrongFirst School of Strength. SF teaches Russian hardstyle kettlebell, distinctive from other KB styles, particularly seen in the KB Swing. We teach the swing as a 2 part movement, a hinge & a plank—simple & effective when done correctly. (There is no squat or unplacking of the shoulders, which causes the disengagment of the lats and hyperextention of the spine.) I cringe when I see someone using KBs in an unsafe way & cringe even more when I see it being taught incorrectly. I love the versatility of KBs & how, when programmed correctly, can help you reach any strength or crosstraining goal! I don’t have question persay, but would love an episode dedicated to my absolute favorite strength training tool! With the correct coach to learn the correct form, the sky is the limit! I have been so lucky to find a mentor and friend in Karen Smith, the 1st female Master Kettlebell Instructor in SF Leadership, who is open to direct questions/possible interview from yall if ever interested. Side note: In regard to the furture nutrient absorbtion episode, I would love if you could address phytates, something my mom, a Yongevity rep, has recently brought my awareness to. Thank you!! Much love & appreication.