Better Breathing Blog by PowerLung

Spring has sprung, and the weather is changing. Now is the time when a lot of athletes of all abilities start thinking more seriously about their summer fitness plans. But before you jump into a strenuous training routine, are your lungs up for the challenge?

Science has shown us that our food choices have a lasting effect on our bodies, and we have begun to understand which foods are better—and worse—for a variety of physical needs. We have heard for many years the negative effects of POOR food choices on the body: weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, increased incidences of cancer and other illnesses, among many other ailments. But instead of focusing on poor food choices, lets investigate those foods which can support—or even improve—lung health.

Spring break can be hectic; kids have been cooped up all winter, are ready for a physical and mental break from school and are anxious to get active. Parents may not have vacation time available for a real “vacation” but want to plan something fun with the kids. Here are some ideas for making the most of your Spring Break while not spending a large portion driving for only a few days’ fun!

Flowers and candy are traditional Valentine’s gifts, but if you are looking for something more health- and “together”-oriented to spark your relationship, why not consider something that combines both? Here are a few unique ideas to help you celebrate Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month!

February is American Heart Month and a great way to kick off 2019 with health-focused activities. From awareness events like a health fair to exciting fitness routines, here are some of the best ways you can show your heart (and lungs) some love during this special month:

Whether you are in top shape because of summer or NOT in top shape because of summer, back to school is an ideal time to get back in shape. The weather will soon cool off, providing opportunities to return to a fitness routine, and the stores and farmers markets are chock full of healthy foods, offering an abundance of great produce to kick start new health eating habits. Improving health through a fitness regimen and better eating can be accomplished as a family, so take this time to set the school year off right with a plan to improve your physical health.

Let’s look at some of the best (and easiest) tips for getting back to school…and back to health!

Summer vacation is fast approaching. Although you likely have a training regime well underway, the warm weather leads to visions of morning runs, bike rides, and workouts as athletes consider scorching heat. With kids out of school, this is also the most popular time for family vacations, which (although fun) can wreak havoc on your fitness routine and plans. It is easy to lose hope that you can maintain your fitness level during these interruptions, but never fear…there ARE tools which not only prevent you from losing what you’ve gained, but some which can be taken with you on vacation, boosting your confidence while relaxing on the beach, by the pool, or visiting your favorite parks and historical cities!

There has been a nationwide resurgence in running, and running clubs are organizing all over the country. Technology has allowed for drastic improvement of running shoes, accessories, and even jogging strollers, making the activity easier to take up than ever before. And why not? Running is a sport that can be continued throughout one’s lifetime, anywhere, at any time. As family-oriented races pop up in many large and small cities alike, it is the perfect time to consider training for—and entering—a race as a family.

Physically active vacations have exploded in popularity. Diving in the cenotes, ziplining in the Amazon, and climbing in the Alps are all trips which at one time were an activity done during a vacation and are now the focus of the vacation. As busy families look for ways to connect and unplug, sports-focused trips continue to prove a perfect opportunity for adults and children to stay physically fit while enjoying a new location and each other. Mountain biking, therefore, is a perfect mix of this; with a combination of skills most family members have mastered (bicycling) and the beauty of nature or the wonder of a new place.