Metal Detectors: The Right Spot To Go Treasure Hunting

Do you've a favorite metal detecting location? Regardless of whether you are new to the hobby or not, going back to a area in which you enjoyed time swaying your treasure metal detector may prove a good plan, particularly when you have not went there for quite a while.

Finding new spots to take your metal detecting hobby can at times be a challenge. Certainly, despite the breadth and size of parklands and woods in the country, one might occasionally run out of excellent sites to take advantage of the pastime. Even the "sure thing," the seashore, occasionally isn't suitable exactly due to its popularity to both metal detecting enthusiasts and typical beachgoers. It's challenging to go into an enjoyable detecting attitude when you are trying never to encroach on other people's areas.

Especially during the summer season, conveniently available metal detecting destinations that are not jam-packed might be hard to come across. So, reflect and make an effort to come up with a list of locations you've gone detecting before. Whether or not it is a playground, in the woods, or even the back of somebody else's barn, if it is a spot which will invite you in along with your treasure metal detector, it could be worthwhile heading back to once more.

For public facilities that are not so out of the way, in the event you haven't gone detecting there in a while, there is a great opportunity it is ripe for hunting. Regions that have a lot of traffic have the best chances of hiding some missing objects. Several coins, gems, or some other significant things-not necessarily old enough to be considered neither ancient nor automatically precious.

There are numerous positive aspects to revisiting a spot you have formerly went metal detecting in. You already are familiar with the surfaces and all that you have to prepare for good metal detecting there; this is fantastic if you do not have a lot of time to prepare your getaway. You can experience the benefit of understanding the process of getting authorizations and/or permits and whatever costs may be involved, if any.

As much as many metal detectorists would like to incorporate their hobby with going to new locations, going to one you have formerly stopped at isn't so bad. A second visit after a good duration of time away can feel comfortable but fresh and new.

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Sports Memorabilia - A Rewarding Hobby?

I've always thought that collecting sports memorabilia was a fun hobby. As a kid I collected baseball cards without giving any thought that they might be very valuable some day. Now I wish I had kept them. There's no telling what they would be worth today - just another missed opportunity.

But today, with the world-wide interest in sports of any kind, collecting sports memorabilia can be a very lucrative business as well as a fascinating hobby. As an example, a jersey worn by the famous soccer player Pele in the 1970 World Cup final recently sold for $224,000 in the United States. Of course not all sports memorabilia will have that kind of return, but guessing which item will become valuable is what makes it an interesting hobby.

I recently discovered another aspect of the "hobby" that can increase the value of your collection. I had an appointment with a doctor that I had never seen before and I was pretty apprehensive about the outcome of the visit. But when I arrived to his office, I was surprised to see the walls of his office covered with pictures, jerseys, gloves, balls and even shoes worn by famous and local athletes. Right away this doctor and I had something in common to discuss (other than my condition, which turned out to be very minor). His hobby turned out to be a valuable asset to his business.

But if you are planning to collect sports memorabilia there are a few points you should consider to assure that you get the best value for your investment.

Pick a particular sport, player, era or tournament that interests you most before you start collecting. That will keep your interest at a peak and decreases the probability that you will make a costly mistake because you failed to do your homework before making a purchase.

Decide whether you want to collect items as a hobby or business. If your aim is to sell the collectibles later make sure that you do not get attached to them and hesitate to sell in future.

Do your homework before making a purchase. Gather as much information as possible before you buy items from the market. The Internet makes a world of information at your fingertips and collecting information has never been faster. One of the best ways to keep updated on the market is to join online forums that deal with sports collectibles. A Google search could bring you a multitude of such forums.

When purchasing memorabilia be sure that you are buying from a reputable dealer or person. Unfortunately, there are a lot of people willing to take your money without delivering the real product. Most reputable dealers provide authentication with their products.

Collecting sports memorabilia, whether for fun or profit, takes time, effort, patience and often a little luck. But it can be one of the most rewarding hobbies you will ever find - particularly if you are fortunate enough to an item like the Pele jersey.

David Hubbard has had a lifelong love affair with sports and anything associated with sports. When he retired from the business world he decided to share his interest in sports with others of like interest. Collecting sports memorabilia from the great moments in the NFL, MLB and the NBA interested him most, so he developed a website focusing on sports collectibles from those venues. For additional information, visit his website at http://www.bestsportsmemories.com/.

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Popular Summer Mountain Sports

Summer time is here, and it's time to hit the mountain again. Thousands of people who would never hit a mountain in the snow and winter make the trek to their nearest mountain in the summer, just to have some fun in the sun. There are dozens of summer mountain sports that you can enjoy, some of them far less conventional than others.

Mountain Biking

For those who love to get on their bikes and ride into the middle of nowhere, mountain biking is the perfect summer mountain sport. Rather than simply taking a ride through a placid countryside, why not test yourself to the limit as you cycle up and down steep mountain trails, walk your bike over rivers, and push yourself to the limit of your endurance. You may find that mountain biking is the perfect summer challenge for you.

Hiking and Trekking

Do you love walking among nature, basking in the peace and tranquility of a forest or desert? Mountain hiking or trekking can be the perfect adventure for you this summer, and you can explore hidden areas of the mountain that no one else has even seen. Taking a hike through the backwoods and hills of your local mountain area will give you the perfect sense of peace and relaxation as you enjoy the wonders of nature.

Rock Climbing

Are you looking to test your endurance and live on the edge this summer? If so, rock climbing can be the perfect sport for you. Use every muscle in your body as you strain to climb tough paths, and stare out at the world around you in sheer awe from the top of the mountain as you revel in the feeling of success that you have achieved through climbing.

Water Sports

There is nothing quite as much fun as enjoying the fresh water of a cold lake under the blazing summer sun. Rafting is one of the best water sports if you live near a river, and tubing can thrill you as you speed behind a boat. You may enjoy kayaking on a placid lake, or you can thrill to the feeling of the lake zipping beneath your feet as you water ski, jet ski or wakeboard.

Camping

Few things can bring a family together as a weekend camping trip, and taking your family extreme camping can be the best way to form a close bond. Extreme camping consist of bringing as little as possible from civilization, which forces you to work hard to find food, shelter, water, and other necessities. If you want to test your nature skills, extreme camping is the way to do it.

Rock Skiing

While skiing on snow has been around for centuries, rock skiing has only just come into popularity. If you love to ski, you may find that rock skiing is the perfect summer adventure for you. No more bundling up against the cold as you ski; it's just you and your skis against the mountainside. Nothing gets more extreme than rock skiing.

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How To Get A Higher Vertical Jump!

There is no single best way to learn how to jump high. But if you want to learn how to get a higher vertical jump, you first must understand that this requires a process that involves your whole body and your lifestyle. You may be overwhelmed at first because of the seemingly numerous ways to learn how to get a higher vertical jump but your confusion will be decreased once you understand the basics I will go over in this article.

There are many exercises that you can do and different personal trainers have various methods to help their clients improve their jump, but the basics of learning how to get a higher vertical jump will remain the same.

The first thing you have to remember if you want to learn how to get a higher vertical jump is that your body needs nutrition and rest. Whenever you are involved in a rigorous activity, your body needs to be energized. This means that you have to get ample sleep a day before your workout. Do not go to the gym if you had only a few hours of sleep. Proper diet is needed when you are learning to jump high. This means that you have to invest on carbohydrates which give energy, and protein which powers the muscles. Water is very important as well if you are engaged in exercises because this will fuel your body. You do not want to suffer from dehydration so make sure that you drink enough water whenever you are exercising.

The next thing about jumps is that this is just one of the skills that you can do with a strong body. Strength exercises are needed in order to do this power skill. Notice that the athletes who can jump the highest are those who have the most flexible bodies. They have powerful legs, solid cores and strong backs. This means that you need to engage in exercises that will strengthen your whole body and not just your legs. The most basic exercises, like walking, jogging, sprinting and swimming, all help in increasing your jump. You will also learn how to get a higher vertical jump by engaging in activities like skipping rope, weight training, toe raises and calf raises.

As in any workout that you do, you will only see the results after several months. It will take months of commitment and dedication so you can get the high jumps that you want. Whether you are an athlete, a sports enthusiast or simply a fitness buff, you will learn how to get a higher vertical jump if you first understand the basics of human kinetics before getting into any workout routine.

To find out more on how to get a Higher Vertical Jump I would like to invite you to pick up a free copy of "How To Jump Higher In 45 Minutes Guaranteed!" This is a complimentary e book that will provide you with step by step solutions to increase your vertical. You claim your complimentary copy by simply >>> Clicking Here

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The Beginning Steps In Pigeon Racing

The Beginning Steps In Pigeon Racing

You might have asked, "What are the proper, most effective steps in my journey to become a successful pigeon racing fancier?" Well in my opinion, it all starts with stock selection!

Now stock selection is basically setting the tone for your loft. This means if you purchase a couple racing pigeons with experience, they most likely will have traits of strength, endurance and good health. Which is huge when you are wanting a successful loft. So if you purchase two, or however many pigeons you choose to purchase, those pigeons will pass on the traits to their youngsters. Of course different traits can be played with, some what manipulated with good breeding skills and knowledge. But we won't cover that just yet.

So the most important thing to do is make sure you pick excellent breeders as your beginning stock. If you choose your racing pigeons lousily then you most likely won't have a winning loft by any means. In pigeon racing, you can't just have one amazing racing pigeon, you need to have many. You need to have a winning, and a successful loft! So an example of a good breeding pigeon, would be a pigeon that has raced, and bred before. So you can see what kind of youngsters the produce, and what traits they passed a long. This is important, and hopefully the person you plan to buy your pigeons from has kept a record of the breeding patterns.

The better you create your foundation for your loft, the better chance you will have a successful racing pigeon loft! As you know, very seldom will a house with horrible foundation stand up against bad weather, or time. Same thing with your pigeon loft.

There are many different ways to purchase your foundation stock of racing pigeons for your loft. Usually the safest bet is to purchase yearlings. This means they do have a season of racing under their belt and you can tell by the records how well they did, if they race long distance or sprint races. This will help you choose fit and healthier racing pigeons that have already proven to be a good racer. If you know some top fanciers in your area, try and get some late hatches from them. This is a pretty good way to start if you aren't too sure what to look for in a pigeon for healthy and fit characteristics. Just make sure the fancier you purchase from has a winning loft, and again check the racing and breeding records. If you have an idea of what a fit and healthy racing pigeon looks like, try going to an auction. Using this method will allow a chance to get great racing pigeons at a low price.

Take your stock selection seriously, even if this is just a hobby for you. This will set up the future for your loft, and you will want to stay away from unhealthy pigeons, that pass on unwanted qualities. Enjoy your first few steps in your pigeon racing journey!

Visit http://www.racerpigeonsinfo.com/ for more incredible information that will set you apart from the rest. Even sign up for a free newsletter with tips and advice for breeding, feeding, maintaining your loft and so much more!

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How To Increase Vertical Jump Heights Gradually And Safely

Numerous people are contemplating on joining a local basketball or volleyball team. In fact, some of them have bigger dreams for the future in regard to these two sports. Both sports have something in common. The players need to have a good vertical jump skill. How can one increase vertical jump heights? This is a question that has been answered in many ways by professional sports trainers and other consultants. Let us start by defining the term vertical jump. First, you need to understand the term standing reach.

It is the maximum height of your arm when stretched out above your head while your feet are together and positioned on the ground. The jump reach is a term used to describe an upright hop to the highest spot possible without stepping forward, backwards or sideways. Your body has to move upwards and land at the same position. The difference between the jump reach and the standing reach gives you a vertical jump result.

While there are many programs out there promising incredible results such as being able to jump up to forty inches above, you should be careful. Even the best basketball players that are praised for their jumps are mainly able to soar up to a range of twenty eight to thirty four inches. Would you like to be like them? Well, there are no shortcuts you can use to reach your goals. Let no one tell you that you can even do it in weeks.

The best thing is to start a program that will allow your muscles to gain speed and strength gradually. It should include both strength and speed training exercises. You are free to decide which workouts you want to begin with between the two. Strength exercises are usually gradual and controlled for maximum results. Good examples include squats using the right types of weights. The most important factor to concentrate on is how you can perfect the action not the number of sessions. You need to use a gym trainer or a sports trainer to show you how to squat correctly without putting your back or any other body part in danger of suffering an injury.

Another good example of an exercise that you could do to jump high is a step up. You have to use dumbbells and a box which is about sixteen inches high. Stand upright while holding the dumbbells and step up on to the bench. If you do it correctly your knee should be ninety degrees angle as you step up. Do the exercise at least ten times. Some lunge jumps are can really boost your strength training to increase vertical jump heights.

They can be done using a barbell across the upper back or while holding two dumbbells. You need to toss a step forward making sure that you step as far as you can. The upper body has to remain upright such that your leading leg knee will eventually flex at ninety degrees. The other leg should stretch behind with the knee slightly raised and the toes supporting it. You can repeat the exercise ten times while exchanging the legs positioning.

For more information, please read this article on Plyometric exercises, and on increase vertical jump

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Geocaching - A Fun "Treasure Hunt" For The Whole Family

Geocaching is a fun and rewarding treasure hunting adventure where participants worldwide hide and find "caches" using hand held GPSr (Global Positioning System Receiver) units. Ask any geocacher and they'll tell you that there is nothing like the excitement of your first successful find.

The word "geocache" was derived from "Geo", meaning Earth, and "Cache" (pronounced cash), a French word for a place where supplies are hidden. So geocaches are like supplies (or in our case, goodies) that are hidden all over the world and geocaching is the hobby of finding them.

Before the word "geocaching" was invented it was called "stash hunting". On May 3, 2000, Dave Ulmer, a computer consultant, became the "father" of geocaching when he hid the very first "stash" in a wooded area near Beaver Creek, Oregon. The stash contained a logbook, a can of beans, mapping software, five dollars in cash, and a slingshot. Previous to May 2000 the GPSr's that were available to the public didn't have the accuracy needed to hunt small things like a stash. Ulmer hid his stash and posted the coordinates on a USENET group and called it the "GPS Stash Hunt".

One of the first people to find the "stash" was Mike Teague. After finding Ulmer's "stash" he wrote about it on his website and started a mailing list where members could receive locations of new stashes. One of the members of the mailing list was a guy by the name of Mike Stum. Stum is credited with inventing the word "geocaching" which soon became the universal term for the hobby.

Not only is geocaching fun, but it's a great family activity that provides excitement, exercise, and fresh air. Kids love it and with over 1 million caches hidden around the world there are probably many close to your home. On our own geocaching adventures we found things close to home that we never knew existed. Geocaching is not just for people who live close to the great outdoors. You can find caches in small town and large cities as well. Many geocachers also include geocaching on their vacations, giving them an opportunity to search for caches that would be too far away during their regular outings.

Geocachers are an inventive bunch of people and have placed caches just about any place you could think of, even underwater. That's part of the fun for cache hiders and seekers alike, making them challenging for both the mind and the body. Some geocaches even require you to have a boat or climbing gear to get to their location. One geocache that my sons and I found was sealed with a chain and a combination lock so we had to search the area for the lock combination. Another one we found was located in a swamp inside of a huge frog lawn ornament. The cache owner had appropriately named his cache as "Frog Bog".

If you decide to try geocaching you'll most likely come across fellow geocachers during some of your hunts. You won't find a nicer bunch of people, members of the geocaching community are always happy to share tips and advice and you'll learn a lot from them. Just about every geocacher or family that geocaches together has a nickname. My two sons and I are "Da3Amigos".

When looking for caches you'll need to learn to think outside of the box. When you reach the general location of a new geocache, also know as ground zero, start by looking for things that just don't seem right. Some caches will be easy to spot while others will require some additional hunting, don't be too disappointed if your first geocaching adventure ends in a "DNF" (did not find). It's happened to all of us (and still does..lol) On the other hand maybe you'll be one of the lucky "FTF" (first to find) geocachers and you'll get a change to grab a special gift that a lot of cache owners leave for the first person to find their "hidden treasure".

Finally, I suggest you make your first geocaching adventure an easy one if you have kids. After they've successfully found their first geocache they'll be anxious to go again and you can start searching for more difficult caches.

Erica Glessor is an avid writer, hiker, and geocacher. Be sure to visit her blog on geocaching to learn more about this fascinating hobby.

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Explaining High Intensity Plyometric Workouts

Are you already doing your basic plyometric exercises? They are extremely imperative workouts for the sports people that need to increase their speed and flexibility. They are meant to boost your ability to be quick at your favorite sport. As soon as you have done enough elementary plyometric workouts, you can start the HIPs or the so called High Intensity Plyometrics. They are mainly for professional runners who definitely need to be agile, strong and quick.

You cannot wake up one day and start doing HIP workouts. They are much recommended to people whose muscles, ligaments and joints have become used to exertion of pressure. They focus on your soleus, quadriceps, gluteus maximus and other major muscles.

What comes first in the High Intensity plyometric workouts?

The first step is a warm up session that prepares your body for intense activity. You need to be in an open field because of the nature of the exercises that you would be doing. These soft exercises could include jogging, walking, jumping up and down and so on. You would certainly require a trainer at this advanced level of exercising.

Train yourself to keep a lunge position

This will involve certain jumps that have to be done carefully to avoid injuries. You need to focus more on the quality of the exercises than the number of times you would do it. Begin in a lunge pose of your body. Do you know how to place your body in this manner? Assume a posture of someone who is about to run although you will be stationary. One leg should be stretched behind supporting itself with the toes in a way that the knee is slightly raised from the ground. The other leg should be stretched forward, flexed at the knee and foot placed flat on the ground. Your trunk should not bend forward as that of a runner. It should be completely upright with your arms facing down at the sides of your body. This front knee must not be positioned beyond the tip of the toes to avoid extreme pressure being exerted on its joints and tendons.

Get started on different types of lunge jumps

There are a few types of lunge jumps that you could do starting in the position explained above. For instance, you could try a style that involves a twist. This starts in a lunge posture with the exception of the arms position. In this exercise you would stretch the arms out fully and then move them in front of you. Be sure to join your palms together before jumping up. When up in the air, you might alter the stationing of your legs but you need to land in a lunge posture. In addition, as you land twist your hands to the side of the front leg. You can make use of a medicine ball or even the dumbbells if necessary. Try to do at least two sets of this exercise and ensure that you repeat four to six times. As mentioned above, there are other lunge plyometric workouts that you can do.

For more information, please read this article on Plyometric exercises, and on Plyometric workouts

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Airsoft Guns - AEG

Airsoft is a healthy outdoor sport that is quite popular among people of all ages. Guns are made in design similar to that of original fire arms. But the pellets used are made of metal or plastic and are not very dangerous. These are majorly used for recreation and are seen in amateur competitions to hit the target, to enact a historical situation etc. Most communities have associations for Airsoft sport enthusiasts so as to carry on with the sport in a healthy and harmless manner.

Different Airsoft guns use different types of forces to trigger the motion of the bullet. Automatic Electric Guns or AEG Airsoft Guns are most abundantly seen these days. Some of the other types that are in use are manual operation guns and guns that use a compressed gas. AEG Airsoft Guns usually have an electric motor driven by power from rechargeable batteries. The motor is connected to a spring apparatus that propels the plastic pellet from the gun. The battery used commonly in the gun has a power of about 8.4V. The battery usually used is that of nickel metal hydride. AEG Airsoft guns are of varying models and are usually very similar in appearance to the real guns.

Advanced versions of AEG Airsoft Guns are available today. These hybrid guns mimic the original ones with noise and smoke like theirs. High power AEG guns use batteries of 9.6V. These guns, called the Electric blow backs or EBB produce a blow back effect like original pistols. AEG versions of lower velocity also exist. They use smaller quantity of energy to propel the pellets and therefore with a reduction in speed.

Airsoft guns can be of three types based on their capacity to hold pellets. Low capacity guns can hold around 88 pellets while medium can hold between 90 and 190 pellets and high capacity can hold around 200 to 800 pellets. The normal speed of a plastic pellet from an AEG Airsoft gun is usually 110m/s and with powerful modifications, the speed can even increase up to 180m/s.

Though quite harmless, some precautions are to be taken while engaging in the Airsoft sport. A hit at high speed and from a close distance can cause abrasions on the skin. Airsoft sport is legal in most countries, but there are some restrictions in some places. Specially designed goggles and masks are to be used to protect the user's eye, teeth etc. Most places also follow some additional safety norms to ensure safety of the users.

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Playing With Statistics at the Sports Book

Betting at sports books is a fun activity as long as you plan a budget, and realize that no matter what system you come up with it is not ever fool proof. Teams that normally play good can play bad, and key players can get hurt thus effecting the outcome of the game.

In all the main sports the team has an average number of points they score on offense and defense. The total number of points a team has scored will often times indicate teams with good offenses. If you add up the total points a team has scored then divide that number of points by the total number of games they have played and we will have a number that could indicate how many points that team will score. However there are many variables to consider which may effect the outcome.

One always needs to consider the teams that the others have been playing. In college football for example it's not rare for a team which is rated very high to play teams which are rated very low. At the beginning of the season teams may decide to play weaker opponents to get their talent ready for harder teams gradually. There often are conferences which are not as good. One strategy that can be used is to not average in games where a top ten team is playing an inferior opponent.

It is always critical to figure out the defensive points as well as the offensive points when considering why one team may be favored. A team may have a great offense, but a weak defense in which they will give up a bunch of points. Powerful defenses can win champions with mediocre offenses.

When you start to average points, and decide which teams look like sure things and which are underdogs consider too that there are points applied to each game. A championship team like Oklahoma (which plays in a stronger conference and went 12-2) happens to be playing an underdog like Utah State (which played in a weaker conference and went 4-8) then they will probably be favored by 40 or more points. However you never know what may happen, last year the score was Oklahoma 31 Utah State 24 so you would have won if you bet on Utah State.

A big consideration is to decide if you want to bet on individual games or select a parlay. In a parlay you will attempt to get several games correct on one wager. The more teams you pick the higher the odds thus if you get all your games right you will make a considerable amount of money for a small investment. For example a $15 fifteen team bet it could pay more then an average person makes in a year, but if you lose only one game you lose. If you bet individually on all 15 teams it would be a larger investment ($75) but if you get most of your games right you will make money.

Get your free cocktail, come up with different scenarios and play hunches. Sports betting is a very fun activity if played within your means.

Gordon Cornell has a Masters Degree in education and enjoys betting at sports books in Reno.

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Plyometric Training Programs - Upper Body And Lower Body Exercises

Plyometric training aims at helping an athlete gain power which entails speed and strength. It involves certain exercises that enable the muscle to gain maximum force. Plyometric workouts are quick eccentric contractions that help a muscle attain the maximum energy within a short time. Therefore, this form of sports training involves muscle lengthening (eccentric contraction) and muscle shortening (concentric contraction). The more you train the more you could increase your force and become a better sports person.

Another imperative detail that you want to note is that the energy needed to stretch a muscle is dissipated in the form of heat. Even so, some of the energy could be kept within the flexible elements of the muscles. This salvaged energy again becomes accessible when a muscle contracts. In order to avoid loss of energy an eccentric contraction must always be followed by a concentric contraction. This is a process that takes place within a very short time span and it explains what plyometric training is all about.

If you are set to begin your training, the first thing you should do is find out how you could customize the exercise program according to your favorite sport. Each game requires a given level of muscle power. For instance, if you play basketball, you may be more interested in doing plyometrics that can help you increase a vertical jump, speed and flexibility. Probably you can use a trainer who knows his or her job. If you want to do these exercises at home then you can use the free information resources available on the internet.

Primarily, you would concentrate on exercises that can stretch and activate the muscles on your lower body and upper body. For your upper body, you could try press ups teamed up with a hand clap. They are used to condition the arms and chest. The eccentric phase occurs when your hands are back on the floor while the chest sinks and this is followed by fiery upward moves. Another wonderful workout that you can try is the passing of medicine ball. In order to succeed in this you can invite a friend, a sibling or use a sports trainer.

There are many ways to pass a medicine ball to strengthen your arms, chests, hips and so on. Drop jumping is one of the many techniques that you can do to enhance your lower body. Mostly you will need to identify an elevated surface such as a tall box. It should be just tall enough to allow you to jump right on top of it and drop your body down to the floor. You will of course drop and land on your feet flat on the ground.

The drop down in this case is considered to be the eccentric phase and energetic hop upwards to be the concentric contraction phase of plyometric training. Bounding is another exercise that boosts the lower body. You will try to use oversize strides when running or hopping. For instance you can try doing bounding up a staircase. This will help you if you are training for jumping or running competitions. Jumping hurdles can be used to enhance the results of bounding.

For more information, please read this article on Plyometric exercises, and on Plyometric training

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Coaching Mental Toughness - Is There Power in Positive Thinking?

Yesterday I interviewed Shannon Miller, the "winningest" female hockey coach in history.

I asked her how she builds confidence in her athletes. What is her coaching mental toughness training secret?

She said: "I get to know each player and her strengths. I focus on her strengths by being really positive with her. Then I set realistic goals for her and encourage her the whole time. One by one she achieves her goals, giving her confidence tons of momentum."

Simple, right?

1. Get to know yourself.

2. Focus on your strengths.

3. Set realistic goals based on them.

4. Build on your momentum.

Yes, simple.

So why do so many people struggle with their confidence?

What step do they fall down on?

This will surprise you.

It's Step 2 - the ability to focus on your strengths.

Most people cannot focus on their strengths for any reasonable length of time.

They are inherently negative.

They've been trained since the age of five to think, talk, and be negative.

By the time they reach adulthood, it is a deeply ingrained habit.

Shannon actually had the opposite experience.

Her mother was a super-positive person. Shannon says: "I used to sing and play the guitar as a kid. For a long time I thought I was really good because of my Mom. Later, when I got old enough to self-evaluate, I realized I can't sing at all," she laughed.

Positive thinking doesn't mean putting on your rose-colored glasses and ignoring reality.

It means focusing on where you're REALLY good repetitively.

After interviewing Shannon I started thinking about every superstar athlete I've ever met.

They all have ONE characteristic in common.

They really DO think they are the cat's meow.

Even when they make mistakes or lose, they minimize such trivial things in their mind.

Want to test my theory?

Watch a big competition like the U.S. Master's Golf tournament or the Stanley Cup.

Listen to the interviews of the losing athletes.

They RARELY insult themselves after a loss.

In fact they're almost always talking about how well they played, even if they choked or unraveled.

Focusing on your strengths is a really important skill in sport mental toughness training.

You need to cultivate this habit, pronto.

Here's a quick and easy way to start.

Right now, without thinking, say out loud your top three strengths as an athlete or coach.

How did you do? Were they easy to come up with?

If not, you need to do some work on this.

And if you'd like to massively shortcut the process to coaching mental toughness, I suggest my Ebook, The Courage to Win in Sport. You will learn exactly how to re-program yourself with the sports mental game secrets jealously guarded by superstar athletes. You can even download it FREE with our seven day trial. Go here: Mental Toughness
Your friend,
Lisa B.

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Discover the Fun of Paddle Boards

Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is FUN! The use of stand up paddle boards has had a huge increase in popularity recently. While it is a different surfing style some surfers say it might be easier than traditional surfing. These boards were first used for learning to surf, but as time passed it developed into its own sport. It gives you an opportunity to enjoy the unique view of the water and it can be used in more than just ocean waters - you can use a paddle board in rivers, bays and lakes to have tons of fun while getting a great workout.

Beginners and novices that want to purchase a paddle board should test one out first by renting from a local surf shop that carries them for rent. Since your first board could be a big purchase it is better to try it out if possible. Internet research can go a long way to helping better understand and finding information on the subject at first. While many surf shops carry these boards most have a limited number of models and design to choose from, so it may take a some time to find the right board for your skill level. An alternative to visiting numerous surf shops is to use the internet for finding the right one.

Looking for equipment online will save you tons of time and effort finding the right board that fits your needs. The internet provides many sites offering a large array of designs, styles, and shapes of equipment. Doing some research will help you find the right board at the right price in a short amount of time compared to traditional shopping. Many online retailers of paddle boards provide pictures and descriptions of each they offer with boards being shipped to your destination of choice. These benefits can help you decide which board is right for you much easier. Once you find what you are looking for in a paddle board it is easy to compare prices and equipment from many different sites so you get the best deal for your money. You can also then compare what is comparable at your local surf shop if you want to get your hands on a board before actually buying.

Although some say it is easier than typical surfing, it can be tricky as well. The increasing popularity of paddle boards and sups cannot be denied - just go to your local surf spot and see how many there are now-a-days. This methods of surfing gives you the opportunity to enjoy nature while being in the water and having fun. So go rent or buy a paddle board and get out and enjoy the exciting new craze taking hold of beaches everywhere. It's an exciting sport offering a great work-out while getting in touch with nature. You'll be amazed at the fun you'll be having.

For more information about paddle boarding, to learn how to get started, and for guidelines on buying equipment visit http://www.paddle-boards.org/. See you in the water on a paddle board!

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The Benefits of Stainless Steel Play Equipment

Often there are many different options to consider when designing for a new play area. There are choices to make between different materials, there are age groups that you have to reach out to, budgets to adhere to and there are longterm goals to try to achieve. Here, we talk about the benefits of choosing stainless steel play equipment and why it can benefit you for years to come...

When you first see stainless steel play equipment installed on site, at exhibitions or in a catalogue it provides a feeling of the very best quality and design. Your next thoughts may be "we wish" or "too expensive for our budget" however, this is not the case if viewed on a longer term basis.

Stainless steel play equipment provides real value for money. From a maintenance point of view structurally, there should be no problems with the material for over 20 years, often out living many other materials used for play equipment within the area. The very best of fittings, including bolts and screws are used alongside high quality bearings and such like, so corrosion and rotting of the stainless materials is something for you never to worry about.

Using expensive materials like this play equipment is beneficial due to the fact that it provides long life and high material strength, this durable material offers many excellent features and is used in high quality public urban designs, both in play equipment and ranges of seating, benches and lighting.

Engineers, specifiers and designers often make the mistake of underestimating or overlooking the unique values provided by stainless steel because of what is viewed as the higher initial cost of the material. However, over the total life of a project, stainless is often the best value option. Stainless steel needs much less maintenance and its hygienic qualities means that harsh cleaners are not required to maintain a clean surface - as we are all aware that graffiti can be a problem in play areas.

Another benefit of using this type of material play equipment is that from an environmental point of view, there is less concern about disposal since the material is 100% recyclable. In fact, over 50% of new comes from old re-melted scrap, thereby completing the full life cycle. So the next time you think about designing a play area, we hope you consider stainless steel play equipment as a real option.

If you would like further information on this, or you have any play area related questions please visit our website at http://www.playground-supplies.com/

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Quarterback Drills for Youth Football

Quarterback drills for the youth player are unique and should not be confused with the dills used for the older players.

Many players begin their football careers at a young age and anyone planning on playing the QB position will need to perform the appropriate type of drills.

Far too many dads have no clue on how to drill the quarterback at any age, but especially the pop warner football level.

Kids can now start playing football as early as 4 years old. This is always flag football, but even at this young age it is important to make sure the kids are getting the proper instruction.

The first thing a player needs to learn is the proper way to stand behind center. Depending on the kind of snap makes a difference in the stance the player will be using.

If the quarterback is lining up in the traditional stance, under a center, then he needs to make sure his feet are no wider than shoulder width apart. I see way too many kids lining up under center with their feet spread way outside their shoulders.

If a player stands with their feet that far apart, they will have a hard time getting the proper depth fast enough, especially on one step drops.

Make sure the player stands up with their back straight, knees bent and hands placed together, but opened as wide as the player can. The QB then places his hands directly under the bent over center.

The coaches needs to watch and make sure the quarterback keeps his hands together and stays under the center until he has secured the football.

Here again, I see most players pulling their hands apart, or even worse, yanking their hands out from under the center before they have secured the ball.

Next, the quarterback needs to keep his head straight up, looking forward at the defense. He should not lean or turn his head, tipping off the direction of the play.

Most young players tip off the opposition the direction of the play by accidentally leaning in one way or moving their helmets in the direction the play is going.

As the QB takes the snap from the center, he must first protect the ball into his stomach area. It does not matter is the play is a pass or run, the ball needs to be secured after the snap is received.

In conclusion, make sure even at a young age that you are teaching the players the correct drills and right techniques.

Please check out our web site which contains many quarterback drills you can use tonight!

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The Ideal Racing Pigeon Loft

The Racing Pigeon Loft

Your racing pigeon loft is an important piece of becoming a successful fancier. A good loft is a must because if your pigeons aren't well rested, comfortable, or healthy they will not do a very good job of winning races. And yes, a proper racing pigeon loft will provide all of those things. So let's get right into it and learn what makes up a fantastic pigeon loft that will provide us with those needs.

If you are a beginner or don't have a lot of money for your loft, you can build one yourself. Average sizes for a loft are 6-8 ft wide, 10-12 ft long and 6-8 ft high. You want to make sure you can fully stand in your loft so make the height according. When trying to determine the size of your pigeon loft, make sure you give enough space, that will allow the pigeons to move around but not too much as that will make them harder to tame, and train. A good rule of thumb is having 8 or 10 cubic feet of air space.

You can also purchase racing pigeon lofts from vendors, they will have some in stock, or you may have a customized one made for you. This of course will cost a fair bit of money depending on the size, and what materials you are wanting to use.

Airflow and sunlight are two very important factors to consider while having your racing pigeon loft built, or when you are building it. Sunlight helps your pigeon's immune system and gives them energy, so try and have the openings facing an area that receives a fair bit of sun. Proper airflow allows the pigeons to get fresh air to keep them healthy. It also prevents moisture from being in the loft which bacteria would love! While it is important to have airflow through the inside of the loft, it is also important to have it under the loft. Which is why it is good to have the floor off the ground by 1-2 feet. Having at least one vent in the roof is a good idea as well since it will allow heat to escape and keep it nice inside of the loft.

The roof of your racing pigeon loft should have some sort of a slope. Avoid flat roofs has they don't do the job as well. The most common kinds of roofs are sloped roofs, which are flat but have a slope so water can run off the roof easily. Make sure you slope it to the back or non-working area of your loft! Peaked roofs are good as well, having a simple gutter system to control the rainfall is a good idea with this type of roof.

Using all of these methods in the construction of your racing pigeon loft will allow your pigeons to grow fully, be healthy, and stay happy and comfortable. This is a must for any fancier that wants to have winning racing pigeons!

If you enjoyed this and what to discover more secrets to help you become a successful racing pigeon fancier visit http://www.racerpigeonsinfo.com/. Learn to building amazing racing pigeon lofts

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Is The Love Of Your Life Safe In Sports Activities?

If you partner is a sports buff then he may fall into two categories. One category is where he just loves to sit on the sidelines and enjoy watching the game, and is what you may call a verbal sports player. The other category is where he is actually involved in a sport and is a member of a sports team.

If he is actively involved in sports and has been for a period of time then there are most likely far less physically related sports dangers that he is facing. If on the other hand he has just joined a new sport then you may want to make some observations.

Lets say for example, your partner has decided he wants to begin to enjoy the great out doors. He is always stuck indoors as an office manager, and wants to get away from the hub of city life on the weekends. He has decided he is going to become a ski buff. This is great as any exercise is good for anyone. This is only true though if it is approached properly, and with the right precautions kept in mind. Of course he will need to know the safety rules of skiing, but he also needs to know his present physical condition.

Skiing is not just a matter of strapping a pair of skis on your boots and gliding down a hill. It places significant demands on various areas of the body such as the arms, shoulders, legs and ankles as well as the torso. For an office worker who does not make use of the muscles in these areas that first ski trip can come at a hefty price to the body. With your partner's enthusiasm at enjoying his new sport he may forget to keep in mind what his body is used to and over do it. Here is where you can take the lead and remind him of his current physical stamina. You will need to observe the amount of time he is actively involved and just what parts of his body he is using the most. By doing this you can possibly help prevent a great deal of discomfort that is sure to come.

Skiing is just one example. Every sport has some type of physical demand attached to it with some of these being easier to recognize than others. For example, its not hard to tell how physically demanding football is, but it is easy to over look at how physically strenuous golf can be. You as the loving person that you are may want to do a little research into what the physical demands will be in respect to your partner's new chosen sport then be on guard for the potential physical dangers it may present.

For some great ski advice and tons of information be sure to visit http://www.tunsnow.net/. Then if you want some great advice on how to keep your sports loving partner happy then you will enjoy what http://www.blueroyce.com/ has waiting for you.

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What Dangers Lay In Wait For The New Water Sports Player?

With the economy being tough and money for entertainment becoming scarce more individuals are showing some attention to amateur sports activity. It is becoming more common now to see families enjoying sports such as kayaking as a family unit, instead of each family member heading off into different sporting venues. In fact it's not unusual to see entire families go off for a weekend of fishing using this as a form of sports involvement.

What has to be considered though, is that every sport no matter what it is holds a certain degree of danger and this has to be thought of before becoming actively involved in the chosen activity no matter what the age of the individual.

We mentioned two types of water sports here. It's easy to understand that there would be a greater level of possible danger with kayaking, but where in the world is there concern for danger in fishing. There are two types of dangers that have to be considered. First of course there is the danger of not following the safety rules of any sport. For example, kayaking has safety rules in place such as using the proper techniques for the sport, the right equipment and only making use of safe waters. For fishing common sense safety rules are those such as not fishing without a lifejacket, or keeping control of the boat. These are just a few examples. The other danger that we are focusing on here is the personal danger of people becoming involved in these types of sports without being physically fit.

For those beginning to show an interest in kayaking they envision sitting in a kayak and letting the rush of the rapids carry them along at a great rate of speed. Sure they have a paddle that they may need to just merely help them keep control of their direction. What they may not realize that there is a great deal of physical effort required to use that paddle against the heavy weight of the water. For those that have not been subjected to this type of strenuous activity it is placing a significant demand on the heart. To a less serious nature it is making use of muscles that are not used to this and muscular and soft tissue injuries are not uncommon in this case.

Fishing is probably one of the least strenuous sports to become involved in and may be the ideal choice for those who have some physical limitations. Again though the circumstances of the fishing event will dictate the degree of energy and physical stamina that is involved. Fishing for trout is far less likely to place as large a demand on the body as what fishing for Marlin would. Even youngsters though that are not used to casting out a fishing rod will often complain of a sore arm and shoulder their first few times out.

Other water sports such as swimming or water skiing hold their own physical risks. It is important to just keep in mind that no matter what type of water sport or water activity that you are going to begin to enjoy, that you consider your physical stamina first. Ease into the water sport and increase the duration as you become accustomed to it. For the more physically demanding type water sports it would be a good idea to get clearance to participate in these from your health care professional first.

For some more great kayaking tips be sure to visit http://www.rapidsports.net/. Then for fishing resources and great info. For fishing for the entire family you will want to spend some time at http://www.netoof.com/

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A Look at Low Impact Sports Activities

One problem I find with many sporting activities I have taken part in, is the heavy impact effecting my knee, ankle and hip joints due to running and falling over. As quite a large man, I have trained as a power lifter for many years, I noticed inflamed and aching joints after playing many sports I had enjoyed as a youngster. There are a lot of other people I know who want to be able to exercise, yet not punish their joints and end up with injuries. The question is, are there sports or activities where you can get a very good level of exercise without aching or injured joints? This article will list some activities that are decidedly low impact, yet very good for the cardio vascular system.

1. Swimming has been a real revelation for me. I now swim three times a week and my fitness and health have improved dramatically. There is hardly any impact on joints, and the work out is as tiring and hard as you choose to make it. Swimming between twenty and thirty lengths in a session, three times a week, will certainly keep you fit and healthy. The bonus is you can still walk without aching ankle or knee joints. A good stretching warm up before a swim makes sure there are no muscle pulls or spasms. As your strength grows you can easily add extra lengths to your workout, or even change to more physically demanding strokes like butterfly or front crawl.

2. Golf has been described as a good walk spoiled, but I disagree. I have never slept as well as I have after eighteen holes, participating in any other sport. There is good reason for this. Walking around a golf course is excellent exercise. For those who choose not to use battery powered golf carts, and transport their own clubs around, you will have a really good workout, without any jarring movements or heavy impact on your joints. As with swimming you can avoid any silly pulls by stretching well before beginning your game. Swinging a golf club to drive a ball is also a great way to keep fit as many upper body muscles are used to make a good disciplined swing. I play about twice a month and am able to walk around a course now, without feeling like I have endured a marathon, so I am certainly getting fitter doing it in combination with my other activities.

3. Sailing was a real surprise when I went for the first time. It is very physical, steering, and also manning the sail, together with changing positions with others in the boat to maintain course and stability. However you are not pounding your joints, so this is a very hard and physical low impact sport. I try to go sailing now once a month, and my upper body strength is still of a level similar to when I was lifting heavy in the gym. You will get an excellent back work out, as well as a great cardio vascular one.

There are plenty of ways to keep fit and also avoid high impact sports. My joints have never felt so good, and I spend a lot less time injured than I did playing football or rugby. I hope more people give these and other low impact sports a try instead of giving up on sports because of bad joints.

If you wish to discuss this article, or want to know more about sporting trophies and awards, you can contact the author here.
Sports Trophies. You must attach this bio if you are using this article please.

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Learn How To Jump Higher For Sports And Personal Benefits

Learning how to jump higher can be important for any sporty person. Even if you are not interested in certain sports that require good vertical jump skills you can enjoy jump exercises. They can help your body muscles develop adequate power which is made up of strength and speed. If you are an athlete or a ball player you need to keep your muscles strong and healthy. What is more, you require strong joints and tendons that can withstand constant pressure created by vigorous activity.

In your training, you must learn new techniques on how to increase your strength and agility. In this article, we will concentrate on the exercises that you could do to enhance your speed. These are power exercises that involve explosive swift moves within the shortest time possible. They are the so called plyometric workouts combined with power cleans and box jumps. The power cleans are meant for advanced sports training individuals who have gained considerable experience in this area.

As a matter of fact you need to do them under the direction and supervision of an accredited expert or simply the CSCS (certified strength and conditioning specialist). The specialist will take you through the basics and an advanced level of power cleans training. A good example of this includes the use of a box which is the level of your knees height. Standing upright with your arms on the side next to the box, jump upwards vigorously.

Make sure that your hands spread out as you land on top of the box. The weighted box hops are basically part of plyometric training. They should be high quality jumps that give you a two by two feet landing surface area. Make sure that the box you want to use is at least sixteen inches to thirty two inches high depending on your height and ability. For better results, you can use two dumbbells that are about five to ten pounds heavy.

Keep your arms straightened out through out the exercise. So you will stand in front of the box and then jump explosively as high as you can and land on top of it gently. Step down and repeat the exercise. Note that you must not jump down to the ground. Just step down calmly and go on and finish three sets each comprised of ten jumps. Since this is a heavy duty workout you should do it for two times only per seven days. Plyometrics can be very useful in your program on how to jump higher.

There are many different activities that are designed to help you in this area. There are basic exercises and high intensity plyometric activities for professionals. The best thing to do right now is to find someone who can train with you and preferably someone who is knowledgeable. Some of the activities that you would do include medicine ball passes and they demand at least two people who can exchange the ball. They also include quick sprints, hurdle jumps and other eccentric and concentric workouts.

For more information, please read this article on Plyometric exercises, and on how to jump higher

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Why Arcade Game Machines Have Stood The Test Of Time

Considering the presence of hundreds and thousands of different computer game consoles in the industry today, most people would think that arcade game machines are obsolete. Of course, who would want to choose these bulky and heavy items over the highly advanced game consoles? Contrary to popular belief, arcade machines are still very popular, especially in commercial establishments. In fact, even kids nowadays still choose to play them in theaters, malls, and other types of commercial establishments. It is amazing that these machines are still so popular despite the newer versions of video games and game consoles. A lot of people ask why they have stood the test of time. What makes them so special that they are still enjoying a certain degree of popularity despite the presence of ultra-advanced video games? Why have arcade machines become classic? This article aims to take a look at why arcade game machines have stood the test of time. If you want to learn more about this topic, read on.

One of the reasons why they have stood the test of time is because they still provide a high degree of thrill and excitement for the entire family. Classic arcade games such as Pac-Man, Super Mario Brothers, Donkey Kong, Supersonic Air Force, Galactic Defender, and other types of games are still a lot of fun and are great for family outings and activities. Arcade games are also very accessible, and are located in strategic areas in malls, theaters and commercial establishments. Therefore, if you plan to unwind in theaters or malls, you can simply visit the recreational and arcade area and check the different types of games offered by an establishment. This is very convenient for families who want to do different types of activities in malls and commercial centers.

In addition, they are also very affordable and cost-efficient. You just need to pay for the games that you want to use, which costs a few dollars. The newer and more advanced game consoles are very expensive, and are disadvantageous for families who have a tight budget. Newer types of video games cost several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, and a lot of families just cannot afford to buy these items. Arcade game machines are therefore a great alternative because they do not cost as much as video game consoles. You just need to set aside a specific amount of money for your weekend trip to the arcade, and you will already be able to take part of the thrill and excitement of arcade games.

There are other reasons why arcade game machines have remained to be a classic. The reasons basically depend on each individual's purpose on why they still choose to remain loyal to these types of games. Adults can always revisit their childhood memories, whenever they play different types of arcade games. Based on these points, arcade game machines will probably remain in the industry for several more years, despite the presence of more advanced video game consoles in the market.

If you feel nostaligic and want to get an arcade game machine for your place, here are some important tips on what to consider when looking at arcade machines for sale as there is so much you need to think about to get a quality machine.

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Is It Safe For You or Your Family To Be Sports Active?

The general well being and overall physical fitness of our bodies is something that many of us are beginning to pay greater attention to. This is partially due to the increased media attention on how people are beginning to take responsibility for their health instead of just taking it for granted.

At the beginning of a new year it is most common for people to make new resolutions when it comes to their health. They are going to quit smoking, lose weight, eat healthier and exercise. Many people will become involved in a sport to help them reach these goals. There is a risk involved however that is often not thought of. In order to become active in a sport one really needs to be somewhat physically fit to start with. Some sports demand a greater degree of fitness than others. For example, baseball is much more physically demanding than perhaps tennis would be, but even so tennis has its own demands on the body as well.

One of the risks of just jumping into a sport without being fit is the danger of it having an adverse effect on your heart. If your heart has not been subjected to regular cardio workouts it may not be able to withstand the sudden shock of being asked to work at an accelerated rate all of a sudden. If you have ever been a cigarette smoker and quit you know first hand how the body dramatically reacts to sudden changes.

The first thing that needs to be done before becoming a sports player is to start with a good physical examination. Advising your health care provider as to your intentions of joining a sport will allow them to focus on your medical condition, and whether it is good enough to withstand the activity that you are proposing. One should not think that these medical exams are only needed for the middle aged groups either. Youth who are going to participate in a sports activity for the first time should also be protected by being medically cleared first. There have been occasions where young people were not aware of a medical condition that if they had participated in strenuous activity could have had serious effects on them.

The medical check-up will act as a preventative for serious or perhaps life threatening situations but it will not prevent possible sports injuries that could occur as a result of not being in shape. It is not uncommon for a new baseball player to pull leg muscles when in the past they have only been used to walking and not running. Or, for the new tennis player, to pull a shoulder muscle because of starting off too enthusiastically in their sport.

Joining a sport for the first time takes some time to prepare for all the demands that it is going to put on the new player.

If you would like to learn some great ways of becoming involved in baseball then visit http://www.southshoresox.com/. Then if tennis is the game of interest be sure to check out http://www.tennisolutions.net/.

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The Importance of In-Season Training for Student Athletes

For the athletes that have trained hard during the off-season to prepare themselves for the physical riggers of the season, staying strong is just as important as getting strong.

Athlete's who've spent the summer in rigorous pre-season workouts such as weights and specific sport conditioning turn up for pre-season training in great shape and ready to perform at their highest level for coach and team.

Unfortunately, too many athletes let their off-season hard work go to waste by not training in-season and failing to maintain the physical attributes they worked so hard to enhance. They feel they can rely on pre-conditioning done in earlier months to see them through the season.

But fall-off in performance and fitness can be quick and in a short season sport such as Football there is no time to recover especially during the critical end-of-season competition when championships are on the line. Why be at the strongest at the start only to be weak at the all important final competitions?

Performance deterioration caused by cessation of training will lead to a decrease in time to exhaustion which on the playing field means less playing time, or in cross-country out of contention for medals.

From the perspective of a Sports Performance Coach, it can be very difficult and frustrating when it comes to educating athletes, coaches, and parents on the importance and benefits of in-season training. It is my experience that the lack of in-season training can be attributed to hectic schedules, fear of over training, and lack of physiological knowledge.

There are some major benefits to in-season training.

In season training will allow the athlete to maintain the strength, speed, and explosiveness they developed in the off-season. Maintaining these attributes should allow the athlete to avoid physically breaking down as the season progresses. When an athlete does not maintain these attributes it can lead to a decrease in performance and increased rate of injury.

Also, in-season training can allow the athlete to recover faster from practices and games.

It is understandable that there can be difficulty finding a time for in-season training while trying to appropriately balance schoolwork, practice, work, etc. Also, many coaches want to spend in-season practice time on skill development and strategy. Fortunately, the benefits of in-season training can be attained by as little as 1-2 maintenance sessions per week with each session lasting about 45-60 minutes.

There are many studies supporting performance deterioration by not performing conditioning workouts during in-season and those athlete's, and coaches, who utilize in-season training, are more likely to reach their full potential than those who do not.

The goals of an athlete's in season program must be clearly defined in accordance with the physical demands of their sport.

Liane Blyn is the co-owner of Athletic Based Training in the Metro-West Boston area and helps athletes of all levels and ages optimize their athletic performance. Liane runs programs for Strength and Conditioning in Milford and Holliston Massachusetts locations and you can get more details about her programs at her website here: http://www.athleticbasedtraining.com/

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A Comparison of Land Metal Detecting With Water Metal Detecting

Swinging a metal detector over a sandy beach is how most people visualize metal detecting. While this is a big part of metal detecting, there are however, many other places where people can and do metal detect.

Other places to detect on land include in parks, around old house sites, at recreational fields, school yards, and many other places only limited by the imagination. Most start out in the hobby of metal detecting on land, and that is where the majority continue to detect.

One kind of metal detecting that many people are not aware of is detecting in the water. I always have people look at me incredulously when I tell them that I detect primarily in the water. Most don't realize that it can be done.

Here are a few "bullet" points comparing metal detecting on land with detecting in the water.
Generally, the cost of water metal detectors is higher due to their water proof construction. There are a greater variety of land metal detectors available, usually with more features than water metal detectors have.
When working in the water, you need a long handled scoop which has to be fairly rugged and is somewhat costly. It is also a bit more difficult to pin point your target in the water. Recovery of items on land is generally easier.
Detecting in the water can be cold and uncomfortable, which can limit when and how long you can detect. Detecting on land is not so limiting.
More older coins and relics are found on land than you will find in the water. On the other hand, many sites on land have already been detected and finding older items could be limited.
Though there may only be a few water detecting sites in your area, check out what beaches that are nearby as they tend to attract a lot of people on hot days. Gold and silver jewelry are replenished more quickly in the water.
You may not find as many older items in the water as you do on land, but in the water is where you'll tend to find the most valuable items such as gold, silver, and platinum jewelry.
Detecting in the water can be fatiguing, especially on your arms and shoulders because of water resistance in both swinging the coil and digging the target. Detecting on land less so.
Wind can kick up the waves and make the water a little murky, making detecting in water a bit difficult.
There are potential hazards in the water such as broken glass, rusted jagged metal, and dangerous critters that make it more difficult to detect in the water.

There are other differences between land metal detecting and water metal detecting, but in general, it is somewhat easier over all to detect on dry land than in the water. Most detectorists who detect in the water also detect on land, but only a small percentage of those who detect on land detect in the water. There is some cross over as many with land detectors will use them in shallow water since the coil is usually water proof. If you choose to try this, be careful not to drop your detector into the water or let water splash on to the detector housing. Repairs could cost you a lot of money and end your detecting season early.

To sum up, metal detecting on land is where you generally start to learn the hobby and it can be rewarding with finding relics and older coins. This is great for the hobbyist and collector. Metal detecting in the water is more difficult, but can be more financially rewarding considering recent high prices for silver, gold, and platinum.

Finally, if you'd like to learn more about metal detectors and metal detecting, you'll find lots of great information at Metal Detecting Resource.com.

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Bocce Ball Sets - Different Materials Result in Different Qualities

Bocce ball sets represent equipment sold to people who play the sport of bocce. A set generally comes with eight bocce balls, a smaller ball called a pallino, a generic rule book, and a carrying bag or case. In the below paragraphs, we will cover the three main categories of bocce sets and their differences.

Composite Resin Bocce Ball Sets

The highest quality and most expensive bocce ball sets are made of composite resin. Resin most commonly comes in two forms, natural and synthetic. Natural resin comes from plants and is sticky and durable when dried. Pine sap is an example of a natural resin. Synthetic resin is a manufactured resin. Synthetic resin is more stable and cheaper than natural resin because it is easier to refine and created in a controlled environment.

Because composite resin is more durable than plastic, resin sets are more expensive. They typically start around $60 and run well north of $100. They are most commonly purchased by serious players that play in tournaments and leagues on a regular basis.

Plastic Molded Bocce Ball Sets

Plastic molded bocce ball sets are sets made of plastic. They are not as durable as resin-based sets and are more prone to cracking and splitting under heavy use. They typically range between $30 and $50. They are commonly purchased by casual players consisting of families and friends that enjoy playing bocce in the backyard as well as players looking for a cheap entry into the sport.

Water-Filled Bocce Ball Sets

Water-filled bocce ball sets are self-explanatory. They are made of molded plastic, but with a twist. Instead of being solid, the centers of the balls are hollow. To weigh down the balls and allow for play, the player fills them with water.

Water-filled sets are inexpensive and usually cost $40 or less including shipping. They are relatively cheap for a few reasons. First, they are made of molded plastic. Plastic is inexpensive to use in manufacturing once the dyes are created and paid for. Secondly, the inside of the balls are hollow, requiring less plastic to manufacture. As with the plastic molded sets listed above, water-filled bocce sets are generally purchased by casual players that want to enjoy playing bocce with friends and family and not pay north of $100 to do it.

Conclusion

The above three categories represent most of the available bocce sets on the market today. Wood, glow sets, and indoor cushion sets also exist and can be purchased, but represent the niche markets of bocce sets. When choosing a bocce set for purchase, the above categories will help in determining if you need to purchase a high quality, expensive set or a lower quality, inexpensive set.

The author is a bocce enthusiast and fan of the sport. He also co-owns a company that sells bocce ball sets located at http://www.bocceballssets.com/. They have a wide variety of bocce sets and pride themselves on great customer service. Visit today!

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Trainer Cycling: Understanding The Details of An Effective Training

Not everyone knows or understands what a trainer cycling can do to effectively check your heart rate in order for you to achieve the best results out of your fitness training. It is wise to know what it is and how to do it effectively. Heart training cycling is a type of training where you use a heart rate monitor to measure effort. But there is no need for you to get any fancy equipment that will cost thousands of dollars, because a simple HRM that costs $40 or more will be enough. Before you start heart rate training cycling, there are three measurements which you need: resting heart rate, lactate threshold, and maximum heart rates. You can go to some training centres and pay to have these measured correctly, the more accurate the measurements, the more effective your heart rate training cycling will be.

Here are some tips and guidelines: These are the important things you must do before you start with your heart rate testing and using a trainer for cycling. Try to follow the guidelines stated below and most of all, don't hesitate to visit your doctor for more queries you might have in mind.

Your lactate threshold is the most uncomfortable measurement to take for heart rate when using a trainer for cycling, since it develops and gets better as you get fitter. You can do this test either on a turbo trainer or on the road; however it is much simpler on a turbo trainer.

Warm up with 15-20 minutes of simple spinning and stretches, and then go as rigid as you can for 30 minutes. Your average HR over the last 20 minutes will be close to your LT. You will require resetting your HRM before the last 20 minutes in order to compute the average; this is why it is highly recommended that you do it on an indoor trainer.

MHR is the simplest, but the most inflexible measurement to take for you to do heart rate trainer cycling. It is simple since it is just the fastest rate your heart beats, but it is the hardest since you will have to go extreme, in order to get this gauged correctly. Before measuring your MHR, you should visit and ask your doctor first to know exactly the details on how to do this properly.

You can do this on the turbo or on the road uphill, it is not that important which one you select. Warm up as explained above, and then go extreme on the turbo, or uphill, as rigid as you can for 60-90 seconds, have 30 seconds revitalization, by either turning gently on the turbo, or coasting downhill. After your 30 seconds revitalization, go all out again as described above. Do this again until you sense like you can go longer or harder, count the number of beats in 1 minute; that is your utmost heart rate.

The most precise way of measuring your resting HR is to measure it first thing as soon as you wake up, and before you get out of bed. The most excellent time is on a weekend where you can wake up naturally, since you will be in a very tranquil state. Simply have a clock or watch where you can see, and count the number of beats in 60 seconds. This is your RHR.

The cycling world of Sydney would make a whole lot of difference for you if you have a personal cycling trainer with over 25 years experience. Visit http://www.yourcyclingtrainer.com/ for more information.

http://goarticles.com/article/Trainer-Cycling-Understanding-The-Details-of-An-Effective-Training/5175300/

How A Sports Athlete Should Deal With A Sports Injury

So what is a sports injury?

A sports injury is generally a problem that happens to an individual when participating in any game. There are typically two types: overuse injuries and acute traumatic injuries. As the term indicates, an overuse injury is a result of overuse of a particular part of the body resulting from recurring action. Examples include the "tennis elbow" and the "runner's knee". Contrary to overuse injuries which happen over a period of time, acute traumatic injuries, on the other hand, aretypically results of a particular blow or impact to the body. Strains, fractures, and lacerations are a few examples of an acute traumatic injury, which is frequently experienced by sportsmen partaking in rough or contact sports (e.g. basketball, soccer, rugby).

Managing Sports Injuries

Whether it's a mild injury or perhaps a severe one, a sports injury can still prove to be a drawback to an athlete. An individual dealing with a sports-related injury, light or intense, need to seek sports injury treatment at once if he wishes to get back into the game at the earliest opportunity. So, how should sports injuries be dealt with?

See a specialist.

It's quite common for many athletes to mistake an overuse injury for muscle soreness. The latter is simply temporary while the former commonly turns into more serious if left unattended. If you ascertain you're without a doubt injured, find sports injury treatment from a medical professional right away. This way, the extent of your injury can be assessed and ideal remedy can then be given.

Get some rest.

Sports-related injuries may also cause an emotional blow. Sports athletes usually go through many different emotional behavior (denial, frustration, and depression) right after they realize that they should take a break from, or even worse give up, the sport because of an injury. A good rest and a balanced, positive approach can work miracles.

Stay fit even when injured.

If you're told by your medical professional to get a good rest, it will not necessarily mean that you should be immobile. With your doctor's permission, you can alter your activities and engage in resistance training to help you move along the healing process.

Go through physical treatment.

If your doctor highly suggests that you go through physiotherapy, maintain a positive attitude. A personal trainer or a physiotherapist will be leading you all throughout the rehabilitation procedure to make sure that the damaged part of the body goes back to its fully functional condition.

No matter if it is just a mild or serious injury you might be suffering from, seek sports injury treatment immediately. If you go through the previously mentioned guidelines while maintaining a winning perspective, you are going to be back in the game right away.

http://goarticles.com/article/How-A-Sports-Athlete-Should-Deal-With-A-Sports-Injury/5174675/