Girl standing and holding an orange kettlebell in each hand at AFAC gym

Harvest Elite-Level Strength with the Farmer’s Carry at AFAC Gym

In the realm of fitness, there are countless exercises that promise to sculpt your muscles, improve your strength, and enhance overall performance. Amidst this vast field of workout routines, one exercise stands out as a true powerhouse, capable of delivering a myriad of benefits to athletes of all levels. Enter the farmer’s carry – a seemingly simple yet incredibly effective exercise that’s been gaining popularity among gym-goers and athletes alike.

Traditionally employed by hardcore strength trainers, the farmer’s carry has recently made its way into the fitness routines of everyday exercisers seeking to boost their health and athleticism. Picture yourself carrying heavy weights in each hand and walking determinedly, and you’ve got the essence of this dynamic exercise.

This blog will give you the lowdown on the farmer’s carry – how to do it, the muscles it works, the benefits, and some fun variations to spice up your workout routine. So, get ready to give it a try and level up your fitness game with farmer’s carries at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado!

The double auto-belay climbing walls and climbing cave at AFAC gym

Is Rock Climbing at AFAC Gym a Good Way to Lose Weight?

Are you tired of the treadmill? Is your enthusiasm for the elliptical evaporating? Do you need a new adventure to add some excitement to your aerobic workouts? If so, you might want to try the indoor climbing cave and double auto-belay climbing wall at AFAC gym. These provide the perfect setup for alternative cardio workouts that can help you lose weight.

With a potential calorie burn ranging from 500 to 900 per hour — depending on the intensity and speed of your movements — rock climbing is an excellent full-body workout that can help you shed pounds. It engages various muscle groups, including your grip strength, back, shoulders, arms, legs, and core, making it a comprehensive and efficient workout for your entire body.

In this blog, we’ll explore how the thrilling world of rock climbing at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado, can not only reignite your passion for cardio, but also torch those unwanted calories, propelling you toward your weight loss goals.

Standing woman exercises at AFAC gym with kettlebell in left hand and right hand raised above head

Study Compares Gym Exercise to Mental Health Medications

Researchers at the University of South Australia want exercise to be the go-to method for dealing with mental health challenges like mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and stress. Why? Because in February 2023, they released a study showing that hitting the gym is 1.5 times more effective than counseling or taking leading medications for these mental health conditions.

In today’s blog, we’ll discuss the study’s findings. We’ll also explain some of the many ways you can get moving at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado, to sweat out those blues.

Woman doing dumbbell chest fly at AFAC Gym

Discover Dumbbell Chest Exercises at AFAC Gym for a Stronger Upper Body

Prepare to embark on an adventure to grow an impressive upper body. We’re about to dive deep into the world of dumbbell chest exercises and uncover the secrets to building strength and power. Trust us, it’s going to be awesome!

Now, you might be wondering why having strong chest muscles is so important. Well, besides giving you that enviable physique, a strong chest can work wonders for your overall strength and functionality. Whether you’re a fitness pro or a newbie on the block, incorporating dumbbell chest exercises into your gym routine can make a world of difference.

In this blog, we’re going to break it down for you. We’ll talk about why chest muscles matter, the specific muscles that make up your chest, and the incredible perks of using dumbbells for your chest workouts. Plus, we’ve got a killer lineup of some seriously effective dumbbell chest exercises that will push you to new heights.

So, get ready to unlock the true potential of your chest and unleash your inner beast mode. It’s time to get pumped and discover the exhilarating world of dumbbell chest exercises at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado. Let’s jump right in, shall we?

Woman doing overhead pull on a cable machine at AFAC gym

Sculpting Your Arms for Maximum Strength and Definition at AFAC Gym

Are you ready to take your arm muscles to the next level? If you’re looking to build impressive biceps, powerful triceps, and rock-solid forearms, AFAC Gym is your ultimate playground. With the right exercises and techniques, you can sculpt your arms to perfection, gaining both strength and definition.

In this blog, we’ll explore a range of effective exercises specifically designed to target your biceps, triceps, and forearms. These workouts will help you achieve the arm gains you’ve been dreaming of. Get ready to flex those muscles at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Woman bent over lifting landmine weight at AFAC gym

17 Incentives to Strength Train at AFAC Gym

Strength training is a powerful tool that does so much more than sculpt a chiseled physique. While it’s true that hitting the gym can help you build muscle and get lean, the benefits of strength training extend far beyond aesthetics. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, incorporating strength training into your routine can have a profound impact on your overall wellbeing. In this blog, we’ll explore 17 compelling reasons why you should consider adding strength training to your fitness regimen at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Red and green graphic of eight full-body profiles. Profiles go from overweight to slim, with each one progressively slimmer when viewed from left to right.

Embark on a Wellness Journey by Walking on a Treadmill at AFAC Gym

Step into a world where your steps at the gym are transformed into a journey toward a healthier, fitter you.

At AFAC gym, you can stride along a path that leads not only to physical wellness but also mental rejuvenation. Welcome to the captivating realm of walking on a treadmill, where the act of putting one foot in front of the other becomes an exhilarating voyage.

Beyond its undeniable convenience, this indoor exercise holds a plethora of surprising benefits that can revolutionize your fitness routine.

So, lace up your virtual sneakers and read this blog where we’ll unveil the remarkable advantages awaiting those who embark on the rhythmic, energizing experience of walking on a treadmill at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Red heart plush toy that's wrapped with a yellow tape measure

Losing Weight at AFAC Gym Can Help Your Heart, Even if You Gain Some of it Back

Lots of people work hard to lose weight to make their heart healthier and avoid type 2 diabetes. But as many of us know, it’s no walk in the park to shed those pounds by cutting calories and hitting the gym.

And guess what? Sometimes, even after you’ve worked your butt off for months or even years, you might end up gaining some weight back. So, does that mean all the hard work you did to improve your health was a waste?

According to one recent study, the answer is no. Even if you gain some lost weight back, your efforts may still reduce your risk of heart problems and type 2 diabetes in the long run.

In today’s blog, we’ll tell you about this study and discuss the top ways to lose weight and keep it off at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Two profile pictures of same man with his shirt off. Left picture shows man before belly fat loss, right picture shows man after belly fat loss.

Unveiling the Top Tricks for Taming Your Tummy at AFAC Gym

Losing belly fat can be really tough for many people who want a slimmer tummy.

The fat around the belly is often stubborn and hard to get rid of. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not as simple as working out at the gym. Things like your genes, hormones, eating habits, and stress can all make it harder to lose belly fat. That’s why it can be a frustrating journey. To succeed, you need to have a plan that includes exercise, eating well, and managing stress. It’s not easy, but with the right approach, you can overcome the challenges of losing belly fat.

In this blog, we’ll unravel a treasure trove of tips, tricks, and tactics that will guide you towards a flatter midsection. Say goodbye to the muffin top and hello to a trimmer waistline as AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado, unveils the wisdom that will help you bid adieu to belly fat once and for all.

Older woman smiling while she works out at the chest press machine at AFAC gym

Lifting Weights UP at AFAC Gym Can Bring Your Blood Pressure DOWN

Strength training is a favorite workout style for AFAC gym members aiming to increase muscle mass and enhance their strength.

But did you know that it can have a positive impact on your blood pressure, too? Engaging in strength training exercises not only offers full-body benefits, but it can also contribute to improved blood pressure readings over time.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the relationship between strength training and blood pressure and discuss how incorporating strength training into your routine at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado can help you regain control over high blood pressure readings.

Man swinging orange battle ropes at AFAC gym while gym owner Schaffner looks on, smiling

How Cross-Training at AFAC Gym Can Make You Stronger, Faster, and Healthier

Practice makes perfect. We’ve all heard this cliché since childhood. A simple piece of wisdom telling us the way to get better at anything is to do it over and over again until we master it.

For the most part, it’s true. But there are times when mixing things up can help you improve your performance. Cross-training is an excellent example of this.

What is cross-training and how does it make you stronger, give you more energy, and allow you to move better? In this blog, we’ll talk about cross-training at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado, and how it can be a smart addition to your workout routine.

Woman pulls cable machine weight over her head while a female personal trainer stands next to her with a hand on her back

When Building Muscle at AFAC Gym, Should You Lift Light or Heavy Weights?

Week in and week out, you go to the gym to grow your muscles. Muscle building takes time, for sure, but you don’t want the process to take any longer than it has to.

A common question at the gym is, when you want to build muscle, should you lift light weights or heavy weights? There are many opinions on this subject. In this blog, we’ll see what science says about lifting light and heavy so you can make the most of your workouts at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

full-body-kettlebell-workout

Hit All Major Muscle Groups with a Kettlebell Workout at AFAC Gym

There are many different weights, machines, and other equipment you can use for strength training at the gym, but one of the most unique is the humble kettlebell.

With one simple kettlebell, you can strength train every major muscle group in your body. Read on to learn the benefits of kettlebell training and how to achieve a full-body workout with kettlebells at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Woman doing dumbbell chest flys at AFAC gym in Thornton, Colorado

A Dozen Reasons Why You Should Do Dumbbell Chest Flys at AFAC Gym

The dumbbell chest fly is a fantastic exercise to do at the gym if you’re looking to build strength in your chest, shoulders, and arms. In addition to the strength training gains that come with this exercise, there are many other benefits you can enjoy.

In this blog, we’ll discuss how to do dumbbell chest flys, the muscles worked, and 12 surprising advantages of adding this workout to your regular rotation at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Graphic of human body, labeling all the muscles

What Are Stabilizer Muscles and Why Are They So Important at AFAC Gym?

How many times have you been told to check your form when you work out at the gym? More times than you can count, right?

And that’s good advice. You must maintain proper form when you exercise to get the results you want and avoid injury. Good form, however, is only possible because of your stabilizer muscles.

What are stabilizer muscles, you ask? Read this blog to learn all about them and what they do when you exercise at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Woman doing a lunge at the gym while lifting a weight plate above her head

Are You Training All 10 Foundational Movement Patterns at AFAC Gym?

When you go to the gym, you might feel overwhelmed by the complex exercises you see other gym members performing.

Have you ever looked around and thought, “Am I doing all the exercises I should be doing? What if I’m missing something important?”

While the sheer number of exercises seems endless, if you look closely, you’ll notice that almost all exercises fall into 10 basic movement patterns. Once you become familiar with these fundamental movement patterns, you can make sure your training program is well-rounded.

Regardless of the latest fancy move people are showing you at the gym, there’s no substitute for mastering the basics of exercise. This blog will walk you through the 10 foundational movement patterns and how you can ensure they show up in your program at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Digital clock at AFAC gym with red-lit numbers showing time of 8:06 a.m.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Work Out at AFAC Gym?

What’s the best time of day to work out at the gym? Most of us have such busy schedules that our answer is, “Whenever we can!”

That might mean we go to the gym before or after work. Or we could show up in the afternoon when our kids are in school. Or we may go when our favorite personal trainer is teaching the group class we love the most.

So, it really boils down to each person’s individual choice and needs. And, if the results are the same, does it really matter what time of day we go to the gym?

Yet some studies seem to indicate that the results aren’t the same. Read this blog to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of working out at various times of the day so that you can make the best decision about when to work out at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Two women at AFAC gym. One woman is doing a floor bridge. The other woman is behind her doing a side plank.

Making the Case for Core Stability Exercises at AFAC Gym

You hear the word “core” thrown around a lot at the gym, so you know it’s important.

But when you stop to think about it, you still might wonder, what exactly is my core? Why is it so important to train my core muscles? And what exercises can I do to strengthen them?

This blog has some answers. Read on to learn all about the value of core stability and how to stabilize your core at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Graphic with a dumbbell, an equal sign, and a man lifting his t-shirt to show his six-pack abdominal muscles

The Best Dumbbell Ab Exercises to Try at AFAC Gym

If we asked you to name the best abdominal exercises, you’d probably list workouts like sit-ups, crunches, and planks.

And, if we asked you to name the best dumbbell exercises, you’d probably list workouts like bicep curls, goblet squats, and bent-over rows.

Those are all good answers, but what if we asked one final question — What are the best dumbbell abdominal exercises?

That one might stump you because dumbbells are not typically thought of as ab blasters. But, when used properly, these weights can give you big gains as you work toward the perfect six pack.

Read this blog to learn about why it’s important to keep your abs strong, as well as some of the best dumbbell ab exercises you can try at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado.

Man sitting on window ledge at the gym looking at his phone and wearing earbuds

9 of the Worst Things You Can Do Before a Workout at AFAC Gym

By now, you’ve heard many tips on what you can do to improve the results of your gym workouts. Things like eating lots of lean protein, drinking water, and getting plenty of rest.

On the other hand, some of the things you’re doing might have the opposite effect. You could be sabotaging your fitness journey before you even take the first step.

If you’re going to put in time and effort at the gym, you might as well make the most of it by avoiding some routine mistakes! In this blog, we’ll list some of the worst things you can do before a workout at AFAC’s gym in Thornton, Colorado, and how to correct them.