Archive for the ‘fitness’ tag
Massage Chairs Compared Manual Recline Against Power Recline
There are many decisions to make regarding purchasing a massage chair. However, if you have limited mobility or foresee this in the future, then an important decision is your choice of powered or manual recline. The recline feature can either be powered for both the chair back and the leg rest. We will take a look at the pluses and minuses of either system.
Many of us are familiar with the manual recline of a typical recliner. There may be a lever to raise up the leg rest using a series of springs or an air cylinder. A lever may also be used to recline the chair back.
Power recline: a power recline is most commonly found in the midrange to high-end luxury massage chairs. Powerful motors are used to lower the chair back or to raise the leg rest. Normally, a button on the remote control is used to activate the motor to position it in the desired angle.
The first thing to consider is your mobility now and in the future. If you think your mobility may be impaired, then it may be wise to go with a powered recliner. Keep in mind that a manual system requires you to either raise your body to recline the chair upright.
Manual recline can work very effectively when the chair is designed properly. Sometimes manufacturers locate the levers in a place where it is harder to access for most people. Make sure that any model that you buy makes it easy to access the lever.
There are manual levers which need to be accessed. Be sure you can find the levers easily. Make sure you try the chair in different positions and that it is easy to access the levers. Sometimes you may be able to access one lever but not the other.
Of course, if you can afford a powered recliner, then this is certainly the way to go. A powered recliner allows you to easily move the chair back up and down or the leg rest up and down. The buttons are normally located on the remote control, so the remote must be positioned close enough to access it from any angle.
There are also hybrid massage chairs. These may have a powered chair back and manual leg rest. A motor is to recline the chair. The lever system is used to raise the leg rest.
Both of these systems are very reliable. These systems will last for years when the chair is used properly. Be careful that you use the chair properly and not put too much weight when the chair is in the reclined position.
If you are looking at a high-end chair, then you almost certainly will find a powered recliner. If you are more budget conscious, then a manual system may be appropriate for you. Be sure to look at the mobility needs of you and others in your household before deciding.
Be sure to research your massage chair choice well. It is important to make sure that the recliner is ergonomic. Just make sure that you select what is appropriate for your needs. A massage chair is a long-term health investment. Be sure you research it appropriately to meet your long term needs.
One of the more important features is a Manual Massage Chair versus a Powered Massage Chair? Some things may influence this determination. There are many effective massage chairs that have manual controls. On the other hand, a powered massaging lounger provides you with the ultimate luxury.
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3 Unexpected Groups Who Can Make a Living Working Part Time as Fitness Professionals!
Working as a personal fitness trainer is a great way to gain additional income, regardless of whether your lifestyle will only permit you to work part time. Three categories that are finding rising good results as part-time fitness professionals are students, stay at home parents, and those who are retired.
Fitness Training Part-Time While in College
Quite a few students find that it’s tough to arrange a part-time job around their continually shifting school schedules. Even in the best case, they frequently end up doing work for mere cents on campus or in the bottom level of the retail industry. Personal training certification makes it possible for them to control the quantity and distribution of their work schedules. They can work for short blocks of time when they find it convenient and earn a substantially higher wage in the process!
Fitness training is a great alternative for many university students. Not merely does it give them a great reason to stay fit while in school, it can also be a terrific opportunity to meet other students and network with individuals in various fields. Teaching fitness classes part time will enrich their school experience since it sets them in the role of a leader and exposes them to a vast selection of people, both of which will benefit them in whatever occupation they will pursue after they graduate. Furthermore, studies reveal that businesses look more favorably upon young people who undertake the extra obligation of being employed while in college, particularly if their jobs entail the widely appreciated talent of instructing other people.
Fitness Training Part Time for Stay-at-Home Moms and Dads
Parents that have responsibilities at home looking after their children may find it remarkably tricky to reenter the workforce without surrendering their time with their young children. Whether they’ve been stay at home parents for many years, or only just decided to abandon their jobs to raise their kids, quite a few parents notice themselves becoming a bit stuck, as their autonomy and activity schedule is dictated exclusively by the needs of their kids. Should they want to begin working again, their choices are usually limited to full time employment, and thus necessitating they leave their child-rearing obligations to relatives or a nanny, or part-time work in the retail or service industries, which have tough hours and limited pay.
Being employed as certified fitness professionals will provide them much greater flexibility when building their schedules, in addition to a chance at a substantially higher payday. What’s more, they’ll interact with other adults and get regular exercise which will inevitably help them keep up with their kids at home! With the right personal training certification, they might even modify their focus as a fitness professional to work with other parents, thereby helping them develop their new social circle in a mutually useful direction!
Fitness Coaching Part-Time After Retiring
After placing the primary profession of their life behind them, lots of retired folks find the desire to begin working once more, in a part time quantity. No matter whether this choice is motivated by a need for money or just a drive to remain active and deal with the monotony that can come with retirement, fitness training can be the ideal lifestyle for them.
Usually, when retirees seek part-time work, they must opt between low-level retail work or jobs working in the service and hospitality industries. Both these types of employment typically pay something like minimum wage and are often very physically arduous, frequently resulting in repetitive-strain injuries. While working as a personal trainer will definitely challenge them in a physical sense, the opportunity to carry out activities at their own pace will boost their health and strength while helping to prevent injuries which happen to be more probable in later periods of life.
Not only can personal training certification enable them to maintain healthy bodies, it can help to keep their brains stimulated, as they interact with and guide other people. Many personal trainers older than fifty treasure the ability not only to keep in shape, but also to help their friends and community enhance their own wellness!
While many fitness professionals choose to make personal training their life’s work and work full time, a growing number of fitness coaches do their work strictly part-time around the many other priorities in their lives. Not simply do these part-time coaches stand to gain much more income than they would in more standard part-time jobs, they will have distinct access to niche markets in which their knowledge will be particularly valued!
In order to have the most success as a fitness professional, you need the best personal training certification. Visit Personal Training Certification HQ to learn tips for maximizing your income as a personal fitness trainer. We’ll help you find the best personal training certification to meet your needs!
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The Importance Of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Therapy
The number one reason for doctors visits is due to pain. There is an ever increasing demand for methods to correct or manage pain being made by those that suffer with pain conditions. An alternative therapy known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, is showing promise as an electroanalgesia.
There are many pain conditions that have been addressed by the use of this method, including lower back pain, joint pain, post-surgical pain, visceral pain, neurogenic pains, and sympathetically mediated pains. There have been a wide variety of results claimed for the use of this procedure, some have been positive, others negative. Debate is underway regarding the viability of these results based on the studies not being performed in a controlled environment.
Pain syndromes are thought to be a breakdown of communication in the various cells and fibers, causing a constant pain sensation rather than decreasing. The principle behind the use of electric stimulation as pain management is formed on the gate-control theory developed by Melzack and Wall in 1965. The gate-control theory offers that another force must be introduced in order to close the open receptor that is causing the painful symptoms.
By stimulating muscle fibers with electricity, the focus of action is taken from the receptors of pain, and diverted to the muscle being stimulated. In an easier concept, think of distraction. Divert the focus from one thing to another so the first is abandoned.
Electrical stimulation therapy is achieved with TENS units. These machines are a simple form which includes a small generator, battery and the electrodes for application. The TENS offers a variety in power settings and various pulse speeds to the patient. This is important as not all people are comfortable at the same level of usage. The initial treatment may have a great deal of trial and error to find what is most comfortable to the patient.
The electrodes used to conduct the electricity are placed on the skin with a gel adhesive. Where the electrodes go is an important factor to treatment. The areas most commonly used are directly over the place of pain, trigger spots, acupuncture sites, and areas with cutaneous nerves.
Because the TENS is a low concentration electrical pulse there are few complications of its use. The most common issue experienced is irritation of the skin. About 33% of individuals with their own machines providing their own treatment suffer with this skin irritation.
The ease of use for these machines makes the ability of a person to properly complete treatment sessions very high. With a little education regarding how the machine works and the correct use of the electrodes, a patient is able to complete the therapy from the comfort of their home. The portability of the unit makes it a simple matter to take it along a trip.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation has a variety of results of individuals, but most patients claim to have continued relief with regular use of a TENS unit. With the growing demand for pain relief and management this form of therapy is an excellent choice. The ease of use makes compliance much easier for the individual.
A popular form of therapy is the use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. People with chronic pain in their joints and muscles often turn to EMS for alleviating pain. Such systems have been created by doctors and scientists.
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Can You See Your Future?
Our modern civilization has definitely come a long way, hasn’t it?After pausing to think about the differences between modern and ancient times, it is really boggling to the mind, isn’t it?
The modern conveniences that are available to the masses today are incredible. Just one-hundred years ago, only a few people had automobiles.In today’s world, nearly every individual has a car. Some own more.
And think about the folks with mobility problems: Powerful stairlifts did not exist 100 years ago. Yet today. They have mobility devices for both the home and for vans.
Today’s technology makes it possible for some folks to live a life that would not have been available to them 100 years ago.That is what is going well.
Yet, there are still problems to conquer. Gum disease is a problem which is characterized in the beginning by the need to stop bleeding gums. It’s strange to think that we still can not beat simple gingivitis after thousands of years of being plagued by it.
Modern medicine may have slipped a bit on that one. But teeth whitening reviews abound on the Internet today. This is because at-home teeth whitening has become quite popular.This is something that wasn’t available one-hundred years ago – at least not to the common person.
Here is a very important tip related to this, do not ever attempt to use lemon juice to lighten your teeth. This will cause damage to your tooth enamel.Lemon juice is really acidic and can quickly eat away your tooth enamel, please don’t ever use it on your teeth.
Medically speaking, it is getting better and better. Cardiac surgery technology has advanced far. Howver, it makes me feel a bit sad. What we really need to do better at is prevention.
At the same time, we really should develop our ability to work with nature instead of against. Are there natural substances that can clean our arteries and help us avoid heart surgery in the first place?
Despite that, I’m optimistic.I am left speculating with wild imagination what we might have available to us in the next 60 years or so. I’m looking forward to finding out.
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Massage Chair Buyer Cliffnotes
Here are some essential things to keep in mind when searching for a massage chair. With so much technology available, there are many features to choose from. This can sometimes be distracting to the process of getting a massage. We share some general considerations about the chair buying process. We hope to help you find what is right for you and your budget.
Shipping Options: Shipping may or may not be included in the advertised price. Find out if they offer free shipping. Also check that it includes where you live. Sometimes Alaska and Hawaii are excluded. Do you need help setting up your massage chair? They weigh 100 to 250 lbs. You can usually get White Glove Delivery which usually includes a two person delivery and set up of the massage recliner. They usually include 2 flights of stairs in the price. You will have to sign for it when it arrives, so someone needs to be at home for delivery.
Evaluate all the Information: Weigh out the features, styling, warranty, etc for the massage chairs that you like. Also, who is going to use the massage chair? What are their weights and heights? What types of needs do they have and what features are the best to cover those who will use it? Did you get to actually try the massage chairs on your list? If you did not, then you may find a retailer carrying that massage chair in your area. If not, some internet resellers offer a 30 day trial period. However, most will refund your money less all shipping expenses. Check around and find out.
Try Some Massage Chairs: Many malls have stores that carry massage chairs. You should go and try them. You can also go to home shows which usually have massage chairs as well. You will want to sit in them and see how they feel for you. While you are trying them, check out their prices. Most store malls will carry slightly different models than what you find on the internet. Remember that a store has to cover more overhead than an internet site, so they will generally be more expensive at the mall.
Upholstery Material: Massage chairs come in leather, synthetic leather and faux suede. There are advantages and disadvantages to each material. Leather is very wear resistant, but requires more maintenance and cannot be used with heating elements. Synthetic leather or PVC leather has improved dramatically with many materials softer, wear resistant and easy to clean. Faux suede enables many fashionable colors to be used, but may be more problematic to keep clean.
Manual or Power Assisted Recline: These days most massage chairs over $1,500 are power assisted in lowering the chair back and raising the footrest. Manual is with the use of a lever and a hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder will raise the footrest or chair back. The user has to lower the footrest and push back to lower the chair back. Most entry level massage recliners have manual controls. The power assisted recline utilizes a motor for chair back and a motor for the footrest. These operate with a one-touch control and may be integrated into moving with different massage programs.
Whatever perspective you are coming from, find out what benefits you want from a massage recliner. They provide numerous therapies or you can target a particular ailment. Find the best chair for your needs over a 3 to 5 year period. That way, you will have many therapies to choose from for many years to come. Think about how your needs may change through time and find one right for you.
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Review of the Human Touch HT-1650 Massage Chair
Human Touch is known for its innovative designs and effective massage therapies in its product line. This is a review of perhaps one of the most unique massage chairs on the market today, the HT-1650 massage recliner. This is a massage chair disguised as a leather recliner. We will make an evaluation of five relevant areas of a massage lounger and assign a rating in points. Let us take a look at the unique HT 1650 massage recliner.
Warranty & Customer Service: Your long term product protection is a function of the length and breadth of the warranty on the product you buy. Big ticket items like a massage chair need to have adequate coverage to offset the money you are paying. The HT 1650 comes with the following warranty coverage: you get 5 years on the structure; you 3 years of parts; you get 1 years of labor (factory service) and in field service is covered for 90 days. The warranty coverage provided by Human Touch for this luxury massage recliner is fairly good. Customer service is through a national call center and they are pretty responsive. We give the HT1650 a 17 in warranty coverage and customer service.
Comfort & Ergonomics: This massage chair is designed as a leather recliner, so it needs to be comfortable or it will not meet its use parameter. Human Touch has put some effort into this massage recliner to make it as much like a leather recliner as possible. The choice of leather material is soft, yet durable. All functions are contained in the slimly designed remote. The remote tucks away in a pocket which removes the sometimes unsightly remote control stand. Overall we give the 1650 a 19 in comfort and ergonomics.
Ease of Use: The ease of use is becoming more important as the rate of features is increasing. Manufacturers must make these types of chairs simple and easy to use for consumers. Human Touch has gotten this message. In fact one of the innovative features of their remote is the use of two sides of it for controls. This enables the remote to remain small and yet be functional. The other feature is the flipping ottoman which has the calf massager. This is relatively easy to flip over and use. The HT-1650 earns a 19 in ease of use.
Key Features: The key feature of the HT-1650 is the fact that it looks like a regular leather recliner. The other key feature is 8 automatic massage programs. The 1650 has a patent protected flipping leg ottoman built into the chair. When you don’t want a calf massage, you can hide it and it is concealed in the chair. When you are ready for a calf massage, you can flip it out and it’s ready for use. Nice! Hidden inside this recliner are eight automatic massage programs that will soothe and relieve you. This chair gets an 18 for its key features.
Massage Therapy: The moment of truth with any massage is chair is how effective is the massage therapy. We were very skeptical with this chair because it does not look like your traditional massage chair. In fact, it looks like your traditional leather recliner. However, Human Touch manages to squeeze in 8 automatic pre-programs. These range in intensity and vigor depending on the one selected. There are also manual techniques. Four in all. This give you quite a selection to meet many needs you may have. Do not forget that the hidden calf massager works both for your feet and your calves. The HT 1650 gets a 17 in this category.
So how does the HT1650 rate overall in this product review? In summing up the scores we rate the HT-1650 a 90/100. The massage therapy is pretty effective in this massage chair. We really like the fact that it is a massage chair in disguise. This enables you to place it in almost any room in the house. The remote is a nice slim design and tucks away into a pocket rather having a remote stand. If you are looking for a massage chair that does not look like one, then this is certainly the massage chair recliner for you.
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Product Review: Sanyo HEC-SR1000K Massage Chair Recliner
Sanyo has a full range of massage chairs in their product line. We are going to take an in depth view of the entry level model for Sanyo. The model SR 1000K is the subject of this product review. Our reviews are systematic and we judge any massage chair is five critical areas. We give a point rating of up to twenty points per area for a total possible score of 100. This is the SR-1000K massage chair recliner by Sanyo.
Warranty Coverage & Customer Service: We start with the warranty coverage because this is your long term protection. Massage chairs are complex machines and obtaining sufficient warranty coverage is always advised. Sanyo covers the SR-1000K recliner with the following warranty: You get 3 years coverage for the roller mechanism, 1 year labor coverage, 1 year parts coverage and 1 year in home service coverage. This is a great warranty for an entry level massage chair. Sanyo also has moved to a national call center which has also improved customer service. We rate the warranty coverage and customer service a 19.
Comfort & Ergonomics: This is an important element, especially for entry level massage chairs. We have tried many entry level chairs that were not comfortable which defeats the purpose of a massage chair. The SR1000K is pretty comfortable to sit in. It has an adjustable head pillow and a plush back pad. The main power button is located on the left side of the chair and can be reached when seated. The leg massager requires you to bend down to flip the foot massage mechanism out. This is the least ergonomic part of the massage recliner. We rate the comfort and ergonomics of the SR 1000 as a 17.
Ease of Use: With so many features being added to today’s massage chairs, we find some remote controls overly complex. This can be very frustrating to new users. The chair should be simple to use and intuitive to understand. The Sanyo SR-1000 comes with an advanced remote that has many features. It does take some time to get accustomed to it as a series of buttons may be required to get it to do what you want. We do like the light level indicators which helps you see the intensities. We give the ease of use a 16.
Key Features: This massage chair comes with the Sanyo stiffness detector. The stiffness detector uses technology borrowed from lie detectors. The stiffness detector in the SR 1000 can sense tightness in the muscles of the body and other points of stress. The user holds the side of the remote and the chair can detect these areas of stiffness. The chair will then target these areas for relief. The other interesting feature is the shape sensor. The shape sensor takes a measurement of the position of the shoulders. The chair then identifies where the shoulders are at and adjusts the massage accordingly. The rollers width will then become less when it gets to your shoulders and for your neck area. These are some advanced electronic features that are unique to Sanyo. We give a rating of 18 for key features.
Massage Therapy: The SR-1000 comes with automatic and manual massage techniques. The automatic massages are named Recovery and Relax. Relax is a soothing type massage and Recovery is more vigorous for after more strenuous activity. The manual massages come with 3 massage techniques but also have two stretching capabilities. The stretching can be used in combination with the 3 massage techniques. The leg rest is capable to massage both the calves and the feet providing virtually a full body massage capability. The SR1000 earns a 17 for its massage therapy.
So how does the Sanyo SR1000K rate overall? In our review it gets an 87/100 points. We like the warranty and that gives you confidence that it will last. The electronic features are interesting, but they seem to be at the expense of more massage treatments. There are only 2 automatic programs, which seem a bit light compared to other massage chairs. The look of the chair is a little different, because the main power is located on the side. The aesthetics are nice otherwise. This is an interesting massage chair and is worth checking out.
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