Worker at AFAC gym sanitizes the facility with hospital-grade fogging disinfectant

AFAC Understands the Importance of a Clean Gym

When you step into a gym, the last thing you want to worry about is germs and grime. A spotless environment isn’t just about aesthetics; it directly impacts your health, workout performance, and overall experience. Whether it’s preventing illness, protecting valuable equipment, or elevating member satisfaction, cleanliness plays a crucial role in the success of any fitness center. At AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado, we prioritize cleanliness because we know it’s at the heart of what makes a great fitness experience.

Three women work out with battle ropes at AFAC gym

Warmups and Cooldowns: Gym Habits You Should Never Skip at AFAC

When you hit the gym, it’s tempting to dive right into the heart of your workout. Whether you’re pumped to break a personal record or just trying to squeeze some exercise into a packed schedule, skipping the warmup or cooldown can seem like an easy way to save time. But neglecting these essential steps might be doing your body more harm than you realize.

Warming up and cooling down isn’t just for elite athletes — it’s crucial for anyone engaging in physical activity. They help prepare your body for exercise, improve performance, and reduce the risk of injury. So, before you rush through your routine, let’s take a closer look at why warmups and cooldowns matter and how to do them right at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Photo of man walking in shorts inside AFAC gym showing a rear view from the waist down.

Fast vs. Slow-Twitch Muscles and How They Impact Your Gym Routine at AFAC

Have you ever wondered why some people excel at explosive sprints while others dominate long-distance marathons? The answer partially lies in their muscle fibers. Everyone’s muscles are powered by two distinct types of fibers: fast-twitch and slow-twitch. These fibers don’t just influence how you move—they determine how you train, recover, and ultimately achieve your fitness goals.

Whether you’re aiming to lift heavier weights, run farther, or just optimize your workouts, understanding the role of these muscle fibers can help you optimize your gym routine. In this blog, we’ll break down the science behind fast-twitch and slow-twitch fibers, explore their impact on your performance, and show you how to train smarter for better results at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Woman standing with her hands on her hips, looking down at a loaded barbell on the floor

The Force of a Fitness Mindset at AFAC Gym

Have you ever wondered what the real key to fitness success is? While it might seem like there’s a secret formula, the truth is much simpler. The right fitness mindset is the ultimate determinant of how far you’ll go in your fitness journey. Your mind is the driving force behind every workout, every rep, and every personal record broken. This blog dives into what a fitness mindset is and how you can cultivate one that fuels your progress at AFAC gym in Thornton, CO.

Woman performs Russian twists with a kettlebell at AFAC gym

How Exercise at AFAC Gym Can Boost Your Immune System

As the seasons change and the weather cools, many of us brace for the inevitable rise in colds and flus. While there are countless remedies and supplements marketed to “boost your immune system,” there’s one approach backed by solid research—regular exercise. By making a routine of heading to AFAC gym, you can bolster your immune defenses and set yourself up for a healthier winter.

AFAC gym owner Susan Schaffner stands by a Power Plate

How Power Plate at AFAC Gym Can Boost Brain Health

Whole Body Vibration (WBV) training, especially when done using the Power Plate, has been gaining attention for its potential benefits to both the body and brain. Recent research suggests that it could play an essential role in slowing down cognitive decline, a finding that may bring hope to those at risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. But how does this work, and what exactly is the science behind it? Let’s dive into the study and what it reveals about the effects of WBV on brain function.

Venn diagram graphic with three circles - one for carbs, one for protein, and one for fats - with colorful drawings of foods in each category

How Macronutrients Fuel Your Fitness Potential at AFAC Gym

To achieve your fitness goals at the gym, your nutrition plays just as crucial a role as your workout routine. One of the most essential aspects of nutrition is understanding macronutrients, or “macros.” These are the building blocks of your diet, and how you balance them can significantly impact your gym performance and overall results. In this blog, we’ll explore the role of macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—in fitness, why they matter, and how to use them to maximize your workouts at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

AFAC gym owner Susan Schaffner watches as a gym member exercises on a balance board

Build Your Balance & Cultivate Your Core at AFAC Gym

Staying active is about more than just lifting weights and running on a treadmill—it’s about creating a body that’s resilient, balanced, and strong from the inside out.

At AFAC gym, our Balance-N-Core class is designed to help with just that. This unique class blends innovative exercises that challenge your balance with powerful core-strengthening movements, allowing you to achieve better stability, coordination, and overall fitness.

Whether you’re aiming to prevent injuries, improve athletic performance, or simply feel more confident in your daily movements, Balance-N-Core is the perfect addition to your workout routine. Join us and discover how building a stable core and enhancing your balance at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado, can transform the way you move.

Dark-haired woman dressed in black workout clothes kicking a long, black punching bag at AFAC gym

Knockout Fitness: 19 Benefits of Kickboxing at AFAC Gym

Kickboxing is more than just a high-energy workout—it’s a dynamic, full-body exercise that combines martial arts techniques with cardio conditioning. It merges the power of boxing punches and kicks inspired by martial arts like Muay Thai and karate. Whether you’re aiming to improve your flexibility, learn self-defense, or simply enjoy an intense calorie-burning session, kickboxing is a workout that challenges your mind and body. When you participate in kickboxing at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado, you’ll engage all major muscle groups while sharpening your focus, coordination, and strength.

Front view of a Power Plate at AFAC gym

Benefits of Using a Power Plate at AFAC Gym

In today’s fast-paced world, gym-goers are always on the lookout for fitness equipment that maximizes efficiency and delivers rapid results. One such piece of technology is the Power Plate, a cutting-edge vibration platform that offers a wide array of health benefits. From building muscle to enhancing blood circulation, the Power Plate is gaining popularity for being a low-impact, high-efficiency workout tool that can be used by individuals of all fitness levels. Whether you’re looking to improve balance, increase metabolism, or recover from muscle soreness, the Power Plate could be the answer. In this blog, we’ll explore what a Power Plate is, how it works, and the many benefits it provides to members of AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Photo of a boot camp class at AFAC gym with several participants on spin bikes

HIIT vs. Boot Camp Workouts: Which One Is Right for You at AFAC Gym?

When it comes to fast-paced, intense workout routines, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) and Boot Camp workouts stand out as two popular options. But how exactly do they differ? And which one is the best choice for your fitness goals? Let’s break down the similarities and differences between these two powerful workout styles offered at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Simple graphic. White dumbbell on purple background on the left. White bed on green background on the right

Exercising at AFAC Gym for Better Sleep

Achieving a good night’s sleep is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Quality sleep can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, support brain health, and boost the immune system. Despite these benefits, many people struggle to get the recommended 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. This blog explores how exercise at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado – when coupled with a healthy diet – can improve sleep quality, helping you wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day.

Man standing in AFAC gym wearing a black T-shirt that says, "Everything hurts and I'm tired"

Common Gym Injuries and How You Can Avoid Them

When you step into the gym, your goal is to build strength, boost endurance, and improve overall fitness—not to get sidelined by an injury. But, even when you have the best intentions, gym injuries can happen. If they do, you may be forced to take time off to recover, hindering your progress. In today’s blog, we’ll explore some of the most common gym injuries and, more importantly, how to prevent them. This, in turn, will help you stay on track with your fitness journey at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

A glass full of blueberries sitting on a workout bench at AFAC gym

Blueberries: Your Superfood for Gym Recovery and More

Blueberries, often hailed as a superfood, are tiny fruits with an impressive array of health benefits. From boosting brain function to supporting heart health, these little berries are more than just a delicious snack. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, blueberries pack a punch of nutrients that can enhance your fitness routine and overall well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore the myriad ways that incorporating blueberries into your diet can help you achieve your health and fitness goals, whether you’re looking to maintain a fit lifestyle, support recovery, or improve your athletic performance at AFAC gym in Thornton, CO.

Two smiling men standing by a squat rack at AFAC gym

Returning to AFAC Gym After a Break

Returning to the gym after a long break can feel both exciting and daunting. Whether you’ve been away due to injury, a busy schedule, or simply taking some time off, getting back into a fitness routine is a powerful step toward reclaiming your health and well-being. However, it’s important to approach this transition thoughtfully to avoid burnout or injury. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips to help you ease back into your workouts, rebuild your strength, and rediscover the joy of movement at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Graphic with the words "Bad Carbs vs. Good Carbs" and photos in the background of high-carb foods. both healthy and unhealthy

The Role of Carbs in Your Fitness Journey at AFAC Gym

Carbs often get a bad rap, especially among health-conscious folks. But the truth is, our bodies need them. Carbohydrates provide the essential energy needed for everything from brainstorming at work to lifting weights at the gym. Contrary to popular belief, cutting out carbs can make it harder to achieve one’s fitness goals. However, this doesn’t mean that all carbs are created equal, nor should they be consumed with reckless abandon. Some carbs are better than others. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of carbs in your diet and enhance your workout routine at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Woman outside on a sunny day drinking from a clear blue plastic bottle

Electrolytes, Exercise, and Staying Hydrated at AFAC Gym

Now that we’re at the peak of summer, each day seems hotter than the last. And, with this relentless heat, staying hydrated is more important than ever.

While you may be drinking plenty of water, another essential part of maintaining hydration is consuming enough electrolytes. Found in many different foods, sports drinks, and powdered supplements, electrolytes play a vital role in keeping our bodies functioning optimally.

While athletes are often the primary audience for electrolyte products, anyone can benefit from them, especially when sweating at the gym. In this blog, we’ll explore what electrolytes are, why they’re so important, and how they can help you stay hydrated and healthy inside and outside AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Spoonful of sugar with white square beads that spell out "no sugar"

Cutting Out Sugar to Improve Your Gym Performance – and More!

Do you have a sweet tooth? Or perhaps a mouthful of them? If so, the idea of cutting out sugar from your diet might seem unthinkable. However, the rewards of embracing a sugar-free, or even sugar-reduced, lifestyle can be transformative, particularly for those who frequent the gym and strive for peak physical performance.

Sugar, often labeled as a silent saboteur, not only affects our waistlines but also our energy levels, mental clarity, and overall health. By eliminating sugar from your diet, you open the door to a multitude of benefits that enhance both your workouts and daily activities.

In this blog, we’ll explore the sweet reasons to ditch sugar and how doing so can expedite your fitness journey at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado.