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Stability, the opposite of flexibility, describes the state of being rigid and stable; too much flexibility renders a joint unstable whilst too much stability increases the risk of tissue strains and tears. In relation to kinesiology and exercise, the degree of stability explains one’s ability to be able to resist and oppose external forces and movement. The core is the most important stabilising mechanism in the body- not only does it protect the organs but it also provides a solid foundation from which the arms and legs move from.   What is the Core?If we were to remove the arms and legs, we would be left with the trunk- the core describes all of the muscles that are involved in the stabilisation of the trunk; thus ‘core stability’ refers to one’s ability to recruit these muscles in their capacity as stabilisers (usually called fixators).... more info

Self myofacial release is a technique typically used to increase the flexibility of muscles that have become tight or hypotonic. Occasionally referred to as ‘self myofacial therapy’ (SMT) or simply ‘foam rolling’, this technique primarily focuses on the pliability of the muscle’s connective tissues and the neuromuscular aspects of flexibility. As a result of regular and daily use, tiny knots or ‘adhesions’ form within the muscle which impede the muscle’s flexibility and create tender points along the length of the muscle fibres. These adhesions form within the muscle during the repair and recovery process; primarily made from ‘scar tissue’, adhesions are inelastic and therefore make the muscle less flexible.... more info

The Kettlebell Swing is the foundation of all kettlebell exercises and characterises everything kettlebell training is about- power-endurance. The kettlebell swing, which from this point on we will simply refer to as ‘the swing’, is perhaps the most basic of kettlebell exercises and can be performed as an exercise in its own right or during transitions between other kettlebell exercises. Prior to attempting the swing, exercisers should ensure that they can correctly perform the ‘kettlebell deadlift’, of which the swing is a natural progression. Both the deadlift and the swing can be described as triple extension exercises because they require a simultaneous extension of the ankles, knees and hips, although extension of the ankle is somewhat limited in these exercises because the heel remain on the ground.... more info

Over the past century there have been dramatic changes in the media’s representation of the ‘ideal’ male physique and body type. The physical dimensions of the male icons and role models have altered dramatically from the athletic physiques exhibited by the likes of Charles Atlas in the 1920’s, to the modern day physical specimens of Arnold Swarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone.  As such, today’s youth have a new level of masculinity to strive for in order to achieve likeness of their role models. Body image disturbances have long been observed in female populations, where the obsessive quest for weight loss is commonplace. Over the past 10 years or so, researchers have become increasingly aware of similar levels of disturbances and dissatisfaction in young males, particularly those participating regularly in weightlifting and bodybuilding activities.... more info

The use of strength training to improve the physical characteristics of both athletes and serious fitness enthusiasts has been well documented and there is a similar volume of research to support the value of plyometric training. Complex Training, in contrast to traditional strength training approaches, alternates biomechanically comparable resistance exercises with plyometric activities. For example, a heavy load squat may be followed some 4-5 minutes after by a set of depth or box jumps. The initial strength exercise places a large emphasis on the force producing capabilities of the muscle, whilst the subsequent plyometric activity attempts to increase the rate at which that force is generated.... more info