By Topic: Training Tips

In the previous column, I addressed soft tissue mobilization. Immediately following proper release, I suggest incorporating stretching to improve TFL and ITB mobility. I have included two self stretches... View More

It is fairly well accepted in medical/rehab circles that much of the lateral knee pain felt by runners is related to the iliotibial band (ITB). Researchers report that frictional forces are greatest between... View More

We have witnessed an explosion of new equipment and training methods over the years. One of my favorite fitness workouts involves the stability ball. Although the ball has been a part of training for a... View More

It is common to encounter clients experiencing shoulder pain with certain exercises from time to time. Most trainers and clients are aware that the rotator cuff is a common culprit. In addition, SLAP tears... View More

Our electronic dependent society (computers, tablets, cell phones) encourages us to fall into a kyphotic and rounded shoulder posture day after day. While this stretch does not isolate the pec minor (pec... View More

In another exercise featuring BOSU Balance Training products, PFP columnist Brian Schiff demonstrates an exercise that challenges the shoulder girdle, core and hips. It may look easy, but don't... View More

Across the country, a new breed of athlete is in training. You can find them in the gym, on a wooded trail or pounding the pavement. Upon first glance, it may appear as though these individuals are training... View More

Boot camps seem to be found on every corner now, since they are a much more affordable option compared to one-on-one personal training. As we know, they are not all created equal. Now more than ever, it... View More

Fish oil supplements, also known as omega-3 fats, are one of the most popular supplements, with more people buying than ever. This shouldn't come as a surprise; with over 15,000 studies, fish oil is powerful... View More

This exercise is designed to strengthen the lateral myofascial chain and improve functional stability and neuromuscular control of the low back, pelvis and hips. It effectively targets the gluteus medius,... View More

Poor posture and muscle imbalances lead to neck pain and dysfunction. With the increasing reliance on tablets, PC's and cellular phones, most people tend to fall into a forward head posture characterized... View More

How do you get clients to eat right? That is one of the toughest questions that trainers face throughout their career. As a studio owner and former editor of PFP, I've spoken with countless trainers and... View More

Whether you’re a professional athlete, peewee football player, ballet dancer or “weekend warrior,” you probably know what it’s like to run out of steam during exercise. Maybe, you... View More

Do you drink coffee? Diet soda? Red Bull? Tea? If so, you are a "user." And caffeine is one of the most widely used drugs in the world. Aside from giving a morning pick-me-up, the use of caffeine to enhance... View More

Research has shown that strengthening the gluteus medius is clearly an essential way to reduce anterior knee pain and improve pelvic stability and function. The exercise I am sharing today is useful for... View More

This is the fourth and final exercise in my current series addressing scapular dysfunction. Today's exercise may seem rather simple, but it is effective yet challenging for many due to muscular imbalances... View More

As I mentioned in the previous two columns, impaired movement of the scapula places more stress on the glenohumeral joint. Dysfunctional movement is common with shoulder pain and impingement. Another dysfunction... View More

Scapular winging and tilting is a common problem in many clients. This can be the result of long thoracic nerve palsy, tightness in the pec minor, weakness in the serratus anterior, excessive thoracic... View More

Shoulder impingement and scapular dysfunction are common issues that plague many clients. Research indicates that certain muscles tend to dominate others while other muscles fatigue easily leading to faulty... View More

It is no secret that improving hip strength and stability is an important part of any corrective exercise strategy as well as general training program. With limited time in training sessions, it is important... View More