Ask Gilad

THIS WEEK’S “ASK GILAD” BLOG

Question: How long will it take me to get into shape?

Answer:

Have a question for Gilad? Click HERE and send it in! Gilad will choose one question each week to answer.

Find out more information about Gilad and his Fitness DVD's HERE.

Ease Back Into Exercise

Question: Haven't exercised in so long I am not sure it is even safe to start. Is there some way you could suggest to help me ease into it?

Answer: Before beginning any exercise program we always recommend you check with your physician.  This is especially true for you because you have enough reservations to ask the question...and it is also important if you are over 35, or if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease.  If it has been so long since you have been to a doctor that you don't even know if you have any of these things, now would be a good time to make an appointment and go. Chances are good that your doctor will congratulate you for wanting to go out there and get your 'body in motion'!

Have a question for Gilad? Click HERE and send it in! Gilad will choose one question each week to answer.

Find out more information about Gilad and his Fitness DVD's HERE.

Beating A Plateau

Question: I have reached a plateau in my training/weight loss, what should I do?

Answer: The word "plateau" in my opinion is often over-used. It is typically a condition that describes professional athletes who have been over-exerting their bodies on a regular basis and are in need of more rest. Many times it will happen after months of intense competition.
In the case of us "regular folks" we tend to use that term when, for some reason, our weight loss has stopped for a period of time or when we feel like we are not improving in our fitness program.
Remember, when you are on a weight loss program and are working out, you are losing body fat and gaining muscle at the same time. Often the scale will not show weight loss because of the simple fact that - the muscle you gained weighs more than the fat you lost! - Also keep in mind that muscle takes up less space than fat in the body because muscle is denser. That is why often you will see inches lost but not weight loss...
I would simply stick with the program understanding that the body needs time to adjust to the new regimen. If you are eating healthy balanced meals and adjusting your fitness program as you are becoming more fit, you will keep improving! 

Have a question for Gilad? Click HERE and send it in! Gilad will choose one question each week to answer.

Find out more information about Gilad and his Fitness DVD's HERE.

Swimming for Exercise

Question: Hi Gilad, I have been doing your workouts since my early 20s. Started with your show on TV, then many of your exercise videos. I am now close to 50 and would like to ask you what the best combination for a woman of my age. Strength, cardio, Pilates or yoga in order to stay fit. Cardio has become tough as I seem to feel it in my joints. I was thinking I should stick to swimming.
I would like to tell you that of all the exercise trainers that have offered exercise videos over the years, none have been as motivating as you are. Your form, cueing and your personality are perfect (I still do your step aerobic workout with a bit more difficulty now and I keep it low impact).  All the best and hope to hear from you. Jennifer

Answer: Aloha Jennifer, I would highly recommend a weekly fitness program that include all the disciplines you mentioned, they are all equally important!
Swimming is one of the best overall exercises you could do since there is little impact on the joints.
Swimming is very effective for overall conditioning since it develops your cardiovascular system as well as improve your strength and flexibility.
For best results I would recommend doing each of the activities you mention including swimming on a regular basis.
Another Idea would be to each week alternate between 2-3 activities, focusing one week more on strength, second week more on swimming, third week more on yoga etc. The more you mix it up the better for your body and the more fun you'll have!
Gilad  

Have a question for Gilad? Click HERE and send it in! Gilad will choose one question each week to answer.

Find out more information about Gilad and his Fitness DVD's HERE.

Stress and Exercise

Question: I have a lot of stress in my life right now and because of it I have basically quit exercising and I am eating too much and gaining weight.  What can I do to get out of this downward spiral? 

Answer: The truth of the matter is, exercising is an excellent way to fight stress. The stress cycle is normal for the body, but when it is repeated too frequently and too intensely it begins to affect our overall health.  A body that is constantly subjected to stress will have higher blood pressure, tense muscles and digestive problems. Continual stress also taxes the immune system so it becomes harder for us to fight off disease. Eventually, too much stress leads to illness and exhaustion.Try to avoid food when you feel stressed. The tendency for many people is to eat too much of the wrong things when under stress. You want to eat only when you feel calm and under control, and when your digestive system is functioning smoothly.So get up off that couch and start working out. It may be tough at first, but once you get started you will find yourself blowing off steam and feeling better and better. This is the way to start getting out of that downward spiral.

Have a question for Gilad? Click HERE and send it in! Gilad will choose one question each week to answer.

Find out more information about Gilad and his Fitness DVD's HERE.

Dysfunctional Abs

Question: I was told I had dysfunctional abs. Meaning that I have to undergo certain exercises to get back into shape due to an injury I had. What do you suggest? From Dee

Answer: Dear Dee, I doubt you have 'dis-functional abs..' Most likely you just need to start exercising again.. I would highly recommend my 'lord of the abs' DVD series! It will target your abs, core and the rest of your body!! And.. Your abs will become 'functional' in no time! Please report in!!! 

Have a question for Gilad? Click HERE and send it in! Gilad will choose one question each week to answer.

Find out more information about Gilad and his Fitness DVD's HERE.