In the age of information, there is really no excuse not to know how to do something. The internet overflows with websites on anything and everything you can think of. This includes information on exercise and conditioning programs. Here are four excellent websites to help get you off and running (or lifting).
1. Crossfit – say hello to Pukie the Clown
Anyone who has ever tried Crossfit knows that this is a different kind of animal than most exercise enthusiasts are familiar with. Pukie the Clown is the mascot for reasons that are obvious after one of Crossfit’s grueling workouts. Crossfit combines a broad spectrum of exercise programs and techniques into one conglomeration of hell. Standard, run-of-the-mill power lifting, high intensity interval training, long aerobic training sessions, Olympic lifts, and bodyweight exercises; they are all here and part of one of the hardest workout regimens many people have ever attempted.
Each day, a Workout of the Day is provided on Crossfit’s website, and specialized routines are available for a wide range of enthusiasts. Participants include world-class Olympic athletes, professional fighters, military Special Forces, and many people who fall into the Grandma and Grandpa category. The website also has a forum for information on topics such as stretching and flexibility, gymnastics, exercise techniques, and nutrition.
Crossfit affiliates reside in 48 states and 35 countries worldwide. Visit their website at www.crossfit.com
2. Strength and Conditioning Forum at mixedmartialarts.com – not just fightin’ on this site
Mixed martial arts is the fastest growing sport right now, and mixedmartialarts.com has been the top website since 1998. This site contains numerous subforums that discuss all aspects of combat sports, and even some that cover off-topic subjects ranging from cigars to paranormal activity. Expert moderators control each topic and make sure that quality information is sorted from the garbage.
The Strength and Conditioning forum on this site is a treasure trove of information. Subjects include resistance training programs, nutrition and supplements, yoga, workout equipment and clothing, injuries; the list goes on and on. Many of the thousands of members on the site hold degrees in exercise, physiology, kinesiology, and nutrition. A number of them also hold national certifications such as the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Many members post their personal workout routines, and some will even design one upon request. Links also provide access to outside websites that contain some of the more popular routines. A free membership will offer the access to view the first 200 posts on each forum, as well as the ability to create posts. Stop in and look around at www.mixedmartialarts.com. The S&C; forum is under the training tab on the forum list.
3. Tmuscle.com – get in touch with your musclehead side.
This website is geared more toward hardcore bodybuilders and powerlifters, but anyone can benefit from the free workout routines that are available. Videos accompany the workout routines, offering visual coaching on proper form and technique. The home page also links to numerous articles on strength, conditioning, and nutrition, providing a wealth of information to help design workouts.
Like most exercise websites, the forums provide an outstanding resource for fitness enthusiasts. Anyone can view without a membership, but free enrollment allows posting privileges. Forums range from Beginner to the Over 35 Lifter. There is even a forum to post pictures of your physique for critiquing. I don’t know how many might be interested in that, but it provides some inspiration to browse other members’ photos and see the progress they have made. Many even post their training logs on the site. Check out this great site at www.tmuscle.com.
4. Fullfitness.net – no fuss, no muss; simple, yet effective.
This neat little website offers information for anyone who is not interested in reading a bunch of exercise theory, scientific nutritional studies, or random forum posts from Strongman Sven from Norway. This bare-bones site appears straight forward and simple. The left side of the somewhat underwhelming page contains links to anything you need. Want to see exercises for abs? Click the link. Chest? Click the link. Want a beginner routine? You guessed it, click the link. Not only are there links for the exercises and routines, but also for Pilates routines as well as nutritious recipes for every meal.
This site proves that sometimes, simple is better. Beginning exercise enthusiasts should definitely take advantage of this source, but the seasoned veteran can also pick up a few things as well. Check it out at www.fullfitness.net.
These four excellent resources should answer any questions about exercise or nutrition that should arise. So what are you waiting for? Get a routine and start today!
