Becoming A Winning Basketball Player: 5 Characteristics Of The Champion

While every person likes to think they have what it takes to be an athlete, it's not enough to just sign up for the team and show up for practice. If you're going to invest all the time and effort into play, why be an average player? But not everyone is suited for excellence. Here are some characteristics you want to have before deciding if you want to make a commitment to investing your most valuable asset, time, into being a winning basketball player.

1. Competitive Nature

The type of person who will excel at basketball is a competitive person who feels a strong urge to be the best on the court. They will fight for rebounds, block shots, and fully invest themselves in each and every shot. If you do not beat up on yourself at least a little when you know you didn't give it your all and failed, you may not be competitive enough.

2. Open to Coaching

If you cannot be coached, you will not succeed. You need to be open to being openly criticized and improve on weaknesses when they are pointed out. A good player knows they have a lot to learn, no matter how good they are, and leverages their coach for success.

3. An Obsession for Practice

Showing up for required practices and games is not enough—if you want to be mediocre, that is fine, but a winning player will practice whenever they can and put out the extra effort. Laser skills only come with this kind of practice. Winners are not simply born, and raw talent is never enough.

4. Strong Self Discipline

Self discipline goes beyond a commitment to practice—solid athletes will often need to control themselves where non-athletes do not have to. Life is full of distractions and alternate paths. Even young players will have to avoid making poor mistakes as simple as eating the wrong things or as complex as walking away from a fight at school. Pro athletes serve as an example and get lots of media attention and so must restrain themselves just as much.

5. The Ability to Face Challenges

Life is a constant challenge for an athlete. Besides mustering the strength to make the right choices and put in all the effort, you will constantly face opposition from both your own limitations and the people you play against. You have to get up when you fail and try again. You have to have the tenacity to play all the way to the last second, even when there is no way to win—this is what it means to give it your all.

Most importantly, can you do this all every day? The life of an athlete does not have an "off switch"—not if you want to be a true champion. You need to be willing to make a full-time commitment to practice and put in the extra time while others sleep and take a break. To defeat your own weaknesses and perfect your strengths.

It's a commitment to a way of life, and not everyone is made for this.

by James Druman

Basketball Skills: 6 Tips For Improving Your Passes

Perhaps the most underestimated basketball skill, especially in young basketball leagues, is knowing how to pass. It is essential to keep the ball moving and to capitalize on teamwork if you want to be a winning player on a winning team, so passing is something every coach and serious player should focus on. Here are some simple tips for improving your passing skills.

1. Keep Your Distance

It is important to keep the right amount of spacing between yourself and receiving players when making your passes. If you pass from too far away, it is possible an opposing player can step in and steal the ball without even having to fight for it.

If you are too close, it is difficult to get the speed and accuracy needed for precision. About twelve to fifteen feet is a good distance for a pass.

2. Don't Aim at the Receiver

It is common for younger players to throw the ball directly at the receiving player, but it is much more effective to anticipate movement and throw the ball so it is "waiting" as the receiver moves forward. This type of anticipation, of course, requires teamwork, and it is something the entire team should work on together.

3. Dribble Into the Defense

If a defending player is closing in on you as you go to make a pass, dribble and move toward them as you pass. While this seems counterintuitive, it is easier for them to watch your body and anticipate your moves from further away. If you dribble towards them, they are forced to react, throwing off their attention.

4. Eliminate Obvious Signals

A lot of players give away their intent to pass by craning their neck to set sight on the receiving player. You need to learn to look everywhere and use your peripheral vision. A proper pass is made with a lot of wrist, which allows for that quick unexpected snap. Do not wind your arms back or step forward to pass either—these are all obvious movements to an attentive player.

5. Don't Pass "Around" Defending Players

Many new players try to overcompensate and throw the ball over the opposing player's head or well around them, but this type of pass is much too weak, making it easy to anticipate or even snatch out of the air. Keep your passes quick and sure, darting the ball underneath an armpit or just over the shoulder, depending on the player's own movements. Use fakes to your advantage to get their limbs where you want them.

6. Keep Moving

Never stand still after making a pass—you should keep on moving even after the ball is gone and snatched up. Always end a good pass by following through as if going for a rebound, simulating a dribble around another player, or faking a shot. This will keep other players confused while at the same time allowing you to be ready for whatever happens next and remain an asset to the game.

Don't take passing skills for granted. They are an essential part of any solid game, and proper basketball training will give them their due.

by James Druman

Jumping Higher For Basketball - Here's How It's Possible!

Jumping higher for basketball is a goal that almost everyone that plays the game has. If you can increase your vertical you can drastically improve your game and become a better player. You will be able to play better defense, improve the range of your jump shot and maybe most exciting - you will be able to dunk the ball!

Unfortunately a lot of people simply think that there's no way to increase their vertical leap. They figure that jumping is just something that you're born with and that it isn't possible to increase it enough to make a difference in their game.

This couldn't be farther from the truth! It is possible to increase your vertical leap by as much as 20 inches if you take the right steps. I've seen many people who are under 6 feet work on their vertical to the point where they were able to dunk.

Obviously I can't promise that you'll add two full feet to your jump, but I can guarantee you that jumping higher for basketball is entirely possible. You will see a drastic difference in the height of your jump by following a vertical leap training program.

The key is to focus on the muscles used when jumping and then target them with various exercises to strengthen them. There are many different muscles involved, so if you can make them stronger and work on them in a specific way, you're going to see results.

You also will work on your "explosiveness" and technique used when jumping. This plays a huge role in how high you jump.

In fact, just a simple adjustment in the technique and form you use will often add a couple inches immediately. Many people don't realize that the way they "launch" into the air isn't the most effective way to jump. A simple change and you can see instant results.

Think about it as you would any type of training program. For example, if you wanted to strengthen your arms so that they could lift more, you would workout your biceps, triceps, forearms etc. and would be able to see results within a fairly short period of time.

The exact same thing applies to increasing your vertical leap. You target the muscles use in jumping, perfect your form and will see results as you go through the training program and you will be jumping higher for basketball.

by Grant Dougan

Basketball Success: The Basics Of Solid Defense

While those successful goals are the most telling indicator when you are winning a basketball game, any true champion knows that a good team's success often lies in their defense. Your ability to prevent rebounds and limit turnover is an invaluable asset in any game and a team without defensive tactics will never be the best. Let's look at some of the basics you should work on to be a great defending player.

The first thing any player should learn when it comes to defense is perfecting their stance. The solid stance begins by maintaining just over a shoulder-width distance between your two feet and resting on the balls of your feet. If someone pushes on you, you should not sway or move at all—your balance should be solid and evenly distributed.

Keep you knees bent, arms out, elbows bent, and palms up. Keep your head up as well, and direct your attention towards the level of the opposing player's stomach, as this is a great center for reading and anticipating movement. While the heads, eyes, shoulders, or limbs can often be used to distract you or fake you out, the midsection rarely lies.

Your head should not move too much when in this stance—learn how to look out of the corners of your eyes for what is going on. Peripheral vision is a valuable asset for a solid basketball player.

Develop a good defensive slide, moving your feet sideways with quick short steps while staying in stance. Common mistakes players make is moving up out of their defensive position during a slide, leaning in the direction of slides, or crossing their feet—all moves that put you off balance and leave you unprepared.

When you are on the ball, your obvious goal is to keep it from traveling any further. Defense specifics will vary from team to team, depending on coaching, but your main goal is to stop it.

There are many ways to satisfy the goal. Often, what we want to do is direct opposing players off of the court and towards the out of bounds area if possible, once they are stuck in a corner, you and other players can try to keep them there until a 5 second call.

At all times, focus on restricting them from moving forward to their goal, but don't put so much energy into this that you forget to just stay on them at all times. After all, covering and staying on the player is more crucial than limiting court penetration.

Learn to use an opposing player's disadvantages against them. Players will often drive to one side or the other, in favor of their stronger hand (right or left), but you can keep them on their toes by forcing them to play their weaker side. Learn to change your position to keep them going where they do not want to go.

Properly staying on an offensive player is all about confusing them and restricting their movement while going with their movement when it is inevitable. It is a balance.

Another crucial element of defense is knowing when you lost your player and compensating for that. Learn to signal or alert other players on your team when this happens, and then run back to your opponent as fast as possible to resume your defensive position. Never give up and stop when they get away.

There is a lot more to proper defense than this, but these are some good points to keep in mind. Never forget that a good offense will never be good enough to win alone—they may win a lot of games between two mediocre teams, but when it comes to the wins that count, they will always come up short.

by James Druman

Popularity of Football Can Affect the Whole life of Children

 Considering the popularity of football and NFL football jerseys while in the whole world, more and many more parents are keen upon teaching their children to learn football by themselves. But most of them failed in the end. In order to let your son or daughter learn the sport using a success, you must realize this mental stage of your child making plans for your teaching. In the start stages of learning, make sure you realize that football is usually new to him, hence the child's mind may are likely to wonder a tad and they have a short attention span. He cannot focus on it immediately. Taking things slow might help bring them around and eventually bring more attention for your requirements.

Some children will find out quicker than others this means you must keep that while in the back of your brain when teaching. If your youngster cannot learn some abilities quickly, you must become calm, patient, and willing to wear nfl jerseys to repeat things again and again until the steps turn into routine. Repeating steps above twenty-five times usually gets habit. Then a child's mental state can be more relaxed when this occurs because they become more confident into their actions and their motions become more fluent.

We know foundation is essential for any further studying; it will be less of a challenge to learn something brand new with good foundation. I would recommend starting out with quite a few lateral movements, simple fundamentals, and the basic rules belonging to the game. Their mind will examine how using this method is done in the correct manner, and then are going to implement the process.

For you to any sports, warming up is important and necessary. It will help the blood flowing inside body, which will help have the mind focused and ready since you start implementing the visual tasks of your practice in authentic jerseys cheap. Having a warmed up body will also help prevent them from injury during practice.

After the child learned all the basic skills and obtain these as habits, this may free up their mind to find out more advanced techniques, because basics become second nature to them and so they don't need to have a shot at as hard on all of them.

It's never a bad idea to help keep the mind guessing as part of your teaching. Even for young children, mixing things up in your practice, will keep these folks interested and keep the focus sharp. This cannot make your child become complacent when learning superior techniques. Now once your child or a child you are coaching gets to the stage where they have mastered the simple and advanced skills you might have taught them, you can tweak as well as refine their skills in order to truly help them that you're performing at their highest degree.

by Seallow

Practice Does Not Always Make Perfect But It Sure Helps

Some people are born with the capability of knowing how to play sports very well. Usually they grow up with parents, usually dads, who like watching football or basketball on the television and they pick up the language and the ins and outs of the game from a young age. By watching a game on the television, you can pick up the rules and how to play the games pretty easily and if you have brothers or sisters who like to get outside then you most likely played hoops with them every once in a while. If you are brought up in a family where sports are important, your parents will most likely encourage you to play a sport and even if they are not fans, they still want you to be healthy and fit. If you like the game and want to get better at it then there are services that provide help with basketball shooting and basketball training.

Anyone can get better at something if they practice and try hard at it. You cannot expect yourself to get better at any sport for example if you do not play a few times a week and know how to play the game properly. If you become a member of your school team, it is a great way to practice and make friends at the same time. It is a great opportunity to get better at something that you are interested in and get help from people who know what they are talking about.

If you do not have one already, you could try encouraging your family to buy a hoop for your yard. That way you can practice with your dad or one of your siblings. If no one wants to play with you or no one is available to, you can always practice your shots on your own time. Try taking breaks from homework whenever you can and go outside for a few minutes. It will help you get some exercise and you will not go crazy when you have to sit down and crank out homework for a while without breaks.

If your parents encouraged you to play and you do not want to then you can always make a compromise with them. If you sound mature about it then they will most likely be impressed with your maturity and compromise with you as well. When parents push their children to do things, all they want is for their children to explore different options and be healthy. When they make you try out for a sports team, they want you to be active but they also want you to explore things that you might be interested in.

It is hard to know if you like something until you try it. You may think you will like something and hate it or think you will hate something and love it. If you try it and still do not like it, then they should have no problem with you not progressing any further with it.

by Stewart Wrighter

What It Takes To Become A Professional Sportsman

If you are passionate to become a professional ballgame player, you will also wish to enter some major American team. Obviously, you require a good coach to polish your skills. The coach will give you the right direction with sound baseball instruction. But for good practicing and learning you'll also be requiring good baseball equipment. Why it is important to have a good training aid? Here are some of the reasons to answer the question:

A passionate sports person cannot become a good player unless he does not have the resources to play. Good shoes and a clean jersey along with other accessories are things that a sportsman need set foot on the practicing ground. It is a form of symbol of entrance in any professional team or a ground. For becoming a professional ball game player, you need to have all the training aid and stuff. You cannot even practice, if you do not have the kit of clothes and stuff like helmets and guards. Even any good coach will first recommend you to buy all the necessary items of protection, as these are the basic rules of the game.

Beside all such reasons, buying a new kit or a practicing tool, makes you more determined and more devoted to your passion. It is something which gives rise to your self-motivation and makes you develop your self- progression towards the game. Many quotes speak that passion is self generated thing.

That is why many fathers love to give a kind of gift to their sons that can boost their passion. Some love to give bats and some prefer to give a jersey of a famous player. It is a kind of energizer for the sons.

Having a good tool also affects your practicing skills. If you have a cool bat, it would improve the placements of your strokes. If the shoes are in good condition, it will help you in running for good scores.

In spite of resources, a good coach is also necessary. He is the master who knows how to polish your skills. He is the person who brings discipline in your skills and also in your game. The coach is like a teacher which tells you how to play good when the team is at the verge to lose a game. His teachings help you to become a professional player. There are a couple of stories of famous American players which tell, that you cannot get a right coach, it is always the right coach who gets you for your talent.

There is much variety available on internet, where you can see different types of jerseys and sportswear stuff for ballgame. Protection helmets and guards are also available. Many high school kids are also fond of playing the ballgame, even some want to get into the professional team. But due to the cost and expense of the kit there passion gets down with the aspect of time. For that purpose, there are local stores that can cost a much cheaper as compare to other private stores, by which many kids don't give up with their passion.

by Stewart Wrighter

Changing Trends in Women Sports Wear

The recent times have witnessed the growing participation of women sportsperson in all kinds of sports. In fact, there is hardly any sport that has not been played and won by sportswomen today. Therefore, it is imperative that with the rising interest of women in sports, the requirement for women's sportswear is also on the rise. Besides, there has also been a huge transformation from the type of clothes that women were asked to wear previously and the kind of sports-wear that they are exhibiting now. Gone is the era when women sportspersons were worn in unfashionable full clothes and the aware and independent sportswomen of the current times choose to wear clothes that facilitates freedom of movement required in playing all sorts of games.

Women Sports Wear Creates Fashion Statement

In keeping with the women's demand for fashionable attire, the sportswomen also have established the trend of sporting fashionable sportswear as previously done by their male counterparts. Businessmen also have decided to cash on the opportunity and have launched a diverse range of women sportswear. This range of women sportswear is available in exotic shades, prints and patterns. The fashionable sportswear has become quite popular among the modern youth who want to create a style statement and want to look their best.

Types Of Women Sports Wear

The range of women sportswear includes T-shirts, shorts, tracksuits, sweat pants and jerseys. The trendy and innovative designs in fashion sportswear has also enticed the youth to wear them as casuals. The use cutting-edge technology has also assisted in the manufacture of an exclusive range of sophisticated women's sportswear.

Women Sports Wear, A Necessity

The advantage of this variety of sportswear light in the light weight features that do not hamper free body movement of the player. These are entirely designed for complete flexibility and freedom to play. For instance, the sportswear designed for judo and karate women players is fabricated to suit the structure of a woman's body. In the same vein, an athlete, badminton player or a table tennis sport player would demand for a comfortable and light weighted sports wear clothes to give full concentration on the game only. Cloistering attire on the other hand, would only result in distraction and inconvenience.

Moreover, the internet has become a hub for acquiring women sportswear of all varieties. The modern sports wear clothes has revolutionized the complete outlook of the appearance of the sportswomen. They no longer have to deny their feminism in a bid for gaining the respect of their peers in a previously male-dominated sports world. Now the sports women look equally stunning and appealing as any other top celebrity while they play.

by Ahmed Minhas

Cleaning Sports Clothes

I've got one in my household. If you're reading this, you probably have one, too. My son is a sports enthusiast and quite regularly comes home with his sports uniforms covered in mud stains and grass stains. He hasn't come home with any bloodstains yet, but as he is quite an aggressive rugby player, this is bound to happen one day. And it's not just his rugby gear that comes home filthy - he manages to get his cricket gear grubby as well.

I'm probably not the only mother (or partner - husbands/lovers come home grubby after sports as well) who has to deal with this. If you have the luxury of being able to use a drop-off and pick-up laundry service, you may not have to deal with this very often. But sometimes, these services just aren't available, or you need the sports gear two days running and you don't have spares. In this case, you will have to get rid of the stains yourself.

First of all, check for the type of stains that you are dealing with. If you have bloodstains, then you must not use hot water on the garment or else you will set the stain permanently. In this case, soak in cold or lukewarm water with a good dollop of washing powder. If, however, you do not have to deal with bloodstains, then you can soak the garment in hot water and washing powder. A biological powder is the most effective, but normal washing powder will work just as well. Whether you use hot or cold water, you will need to agitate (stir) the garments while they are soaking. Soak garments for at least an hour.

If you are dealing with white sports clothes (cricket uniforms or white rugby shorts), then you can use commercial cleaning product like bleach to deal with any stains. Chlorine bleach deals with grass stains quite effectively with no need for further treatment. However, do not use chlorine bleach on a uniform that has a coloured trim or stripes along with the white. Darker colours are much more forgiving, while paler ones (yellow, pale blue) are the worst, as they show all stains but cannot be bleached.

After an hour or so of soaking (overnight is best, but if you have to get the uniform washed and dried by the next day, this is not always possible), squeeze the excess water out and inspect the clothing. Some types of material, particularly cottons, are quite susceptible to grass stains, and these will need further treatment (synthetics, however, do not seem to "take" the stains as readily; my husband's old synthetic cricket trousers were able to be washed in a normal cold cycle to remove grass "stains"). A proprietary stain remover should be used to spot-treat the stained area, or else methylated spirits. Whatever you use to spot-treat the grass stain, leave it to work for a few minutes before putting the clothes into the washing machine and washing on a heavy-duty cycle.

Dry the clothes as normal. In fact, I have noticed that sometimes, sunshine can give a final "bleach" to grass stains. If you have the misfortune to have no tumble drier and less-than-ideal drying conditions, but still need the uniform by the next morning, drying in front of a radiator or log fire or (as a last resort)with an iron is your best option. Synthetics, once again, dry more easily than cottons.

Sporting Families Do More Together

For anyone who has realized that keeping fit does not have to entail doing the same boring exercise over and over again, finding something that makes them good at a sport is even better than those mundane routines. Indeed, if people find the act of exercising enjoyable and fun then they are much more likely to keep up the good work over an extended period of time. For example, pitching machines give the player the opportunity to keep moving while getting better at this particular skill. A pitching machine can be used by all the family too which makes it a great way to get everyone out in the fresh air.

Now, one would think that this kind of equipment may come in with a high price tag but this is absolutely wrong. They have become so popular of late that the price has dropped to just a few hundred dollars. Add to this a batting cage and the player can be outside for many hours even if they have no one to help them along.

The equipment can also be adjusted to take care of younger kids too as well as the rank novice who has never swung a bat in their entire lives. Since these gadgets can throw the ball at seventy miles an hour or more, it is easy to see that some could be scared of having a go. Indeed, even the style of play is adjustable and this makes it good for those who want to practice one particular throw over a length of time. This could include curve balls, from left or right, which is a particularly hard move to master.

For the family which wants to get out there and make up teams to play each other, perhaps the best way to start too is to get them all watching the training videos which often have stars of the sport in the driving seat. Seeing someone extra famous giving hints and tips is usually enough to get people sitting up and taking notice, and this includes the older folks too.

On top of this, they often give some hints about the kind of clothes and shoes which should be worn which could improve the performance at the same time. Some of these great new innovations claim to strengthen and flex all the muscles in the legs and arms so that when play is in progress, improvements can be seen quite readily.

But perhaps the biggest benefit to all of this preparation is that the family will have time to reconnect after spending a lot of time away from other family members. In our busy lives that we all have these days, sometimes family members do not even get to eat one meal a day together. Since this is often pointed out as the reason why kids go off track now and then, finding a sport that everyone can get involved in must be the next best thing to having a therapist telling them how to reconnect.

by Stewart Wrighter

Getting the Best Sport Shoes?

For today's health conscious society it is important to realize that with all the sporting gear that is being manufactured, one piece of equipment that shouldn't be ignored is having the proper footwear. We've come a long way from the days where shoe technology was choosing a low cut "sneaker". The sneaker has long evolved into iconic symbols that people put on their feet.

One aspect that people need to realize is that manufacturing shoes is a big business and has become so action oriented and specific to your activity. Athletic shoes are far better for you than the "sneaker", but understand that even athletic shoes have their own categories and not to mention all the different sports, like football and basketball etc, etc.

The normal shoes that you wear every day is very different to the Sporting Shoe. But Walking Shoes that look the same [at least for men] are built in a way that supports the foot a bit more stiffly. It can be used for most activities because walking shoes have far more cushioning in the inner soles. That is not to say that some other shoes do not have supportive shoes, but a walking shoe is meant to provide a certain while walking.

Running Shoes:The biggest difference between the running shoes and the walking shoes are huge. The running shoe has devolved into something different. It comes in many widths, many different types of soles to handle your foot types with over-pronation, sub-pronation, and any type of pronation a normal runner might have. There are running shoes with all kinds of springs, air bags, and gel etc. Running shoes vary greatly in weight, or lightness in the material depending on the manufacturer. These shoes are designed for runners of all levels of ability. If you are a beginner, intermediate, or ultra-marathon runner there is a Sporting Shoe that handles your different type of running. The biggest difference that you will see in running shoes is normally in the price, which can range in the hundreds of dollars depending on the manufacture and their involvement in sponsorship advertising.

Cross-training: These shoes are often a cross between the running shoe and a strong walking shoe. The biggest difference in these shoes is their ability to maintain a rigid structure that will accommodate the rigors of running, weightlifting, sprinting, and general fitness. A person often chooses these types of shoes because they offer a good comfort level and is not as pricey as a premium running shoe brand. Often, cross-trainers, as they are called are comparable to a good walking shoe, especially if you need the support. These shoes have a good all round ability.

The Specialty Sorting Shoes: This category we are talking about the Shape-up type of shoe, where there is definite curvature to the bottom of the shoe that allows for the stress of each step to affect the gluteus, hamstring, quadriceps, and calf regions of the wearer's legs. This is very often a plus because that in wearing these shoes during daily activity gives a very good workout.

Cross Specialty Shoes: These are similar to specialized light weight sandals that are designed to give the person the benefit of cross-trainers and the foot freedom of a sandal. The biggest technological advance in this category has been the Five Finger Shoe. This shoe is almost designed like a water shoe, but has an individual toes that keep each toe's movement free of restriction. The best part of these shoes is that they offer a good level of protection to the foot, and the foot's natural supports in the arch, instep, and heel are used to move the wearer. Which barring any foot problems, will give the wearer a better feeling of movement.


You have to think about what is the main activity you are performing and match it to the best possible shoe. It is better to think about this process in depth, before you buy. That will give you a healthier foot, and one that won't complain so much by the end of the work-out or the event. A good Sporting Shoe will not damage your feet and will not make the feet sore if you have the right design and size for YOUR feet. Getting this right could make your sport a pleasurable enjoyable exercise.

by David Moon

Run to Lose Weight - The 5 Ingredients of a Successful Running Program for Instant Weight Loss

The paths to permanent weight loss can be a daunting challenge to aspire to. As you may know, losing the unwanted weight and keeping off for good are totally different things. In my opinion, the best way to shed the extra pounds and stay in shape forever is achieved through starting and keeping a running program.

Why running is the best way you may ask. Well, running burns more calories than any other activity. It has been proven time and time again by millions fitness enthusiasts just like you, to be able to burn fat effectively and easily. Running also has tremendous benefits beside weight loss. Here are the 5 principles for an effective weight loss running program.

1- Set weight loss running goals

The first step to any type of change is getting to know what you are after. If you don't know what you want, how do you expect to achieve it? Well, you won't go far. Therefore, before you head out the door; ask yourself this existential question: "what do I really want?" After that, your reticular activation system will do the rest for you. You will start seeing opportunities coming from everywhere. You will start picking up ideas and getting a clear vision of the kind of person you would like to become. This will boost your motivation and get you up and ready for running.

2- Plan your weight loss running

Nothing is achieved without a well thought plan. Great businesses fall down on the ground almost overnight due to the lack of strategic planning. I know, you are not about creating a multi-million company. But this principle is universal and can be applied throughout all areas of life. Plan your running around your life, not the other way around. We all have our errands to run, our job and kids to take care of. Sometimes your lifestyle can be an obstacle to starting a running program. I usually plan my workout in the early morning. Find what works the best for you.

3- The beginner runner

If you are a beginner, my advice to you is to start slow and build up gradually. This is usually means that you have to walk before you run. You should combine walking and running until you feel capable to run without exerting yourself. Your ego may try and get in the way--just don't let it ruin your life

4- Balanced diet

The other side of the weight loss coin is a balanced diet. The reason behind weight loss is the concept of a calorie deficit. When you are using up more energy than you are taking in, you will be creating enough calorie deficits to shed the extra pounds. Just be smart with it and don't starve yourself to death!

5- Be consistent

Going for a jog around the block and expecting instant results is a shortcut to disaster. Permanent weight loss is achieved through permanent training regime. In the early stage, you may have to work extra hard to see some results, but as you get more fit and acquire your endurance foundation, you won't have to work on it as much as you used to. Therefore, be patient and remember to have fun.

by John Angel

Running Programs - How to Achieve the Tenacious Consistency You Crave

Starting a running program and keeping it are totally two different things, are they not? The best way to stay motivated and consistent with your running program is by making it more fun and enjoyable. In my opinion the single best way to make your running fun is not by purchasing some fancy apparels or buying the coolest pair of shoes - it is by having a training partner.

Getting and staying fit requires focus and motivation - working out with a training partner can make exercising fun and helps you stay on track. Training with a partner or group is a wonderful way to stay motivated and ensure that you will do the required work everyday; of course as long you share the same goals and schedule.

Finding the right partner can not be that easy, your best friend could not be the best candidate for the task. Instead you should pick a running partner who is at the same level as you are. If you are a beginner runner, choose someone who is also on the novice path.

Your running partner should also share the same vision as you, your training schedules must be in sync, and thus there will be no conflict down the road. If you running partner wants a hard workout, and it is supposed to be an easy day for you - that may cause problems. You should find a pragmatic solution to work around such conflicts.

In fact, you could have one steady partner or you might have several partners on different days. By doing so, you could make your running program fit with theirs. Join your local running club and pick the right running partner for you - do not worry, there is always someone who will fit exactly with what you need.

When you plan your workout week, try to do as many as runs as possible with a running partner, because as you may know - the group that you surround yourself with, will have the most impact and influence on the type of decisions you make. Especially, if you are on the journey of getting into a better shape and becoming a better person.

by John Angel

Starting a Running Program: Why Do So Many Fail To Make The Mark?

It's a sad fact that around 80% of people taking up running for the first time will give up within four weeks of training. Although the wish to improve fitness or lose weight is evident, there is obviously something going wrong with their training program to result in such a high drop out rate.

This article looks at some of the reasons why people fail to continue running.

Lack of planning or preparation is I believe a major factor. Invariably the decision to start a running program is acted upon very quickly and often without the proper running shoes or apparel. Running any reasonable distance in shoes not designed for the activity will cause discomfort and could put off the novice runner.

Likewise, running in clothing meant for the gym does not lend itself towards an agreeable run. Today's hi-tech running apparel will take the sweat away from your body and cause minimal friction with the more sensitive parts of your body. Money spent upfront on good quality running gear can not only make a difference whilst running but also ensure the commitment if you have spent good money on your kit.

Although we are familiar with the idea that we should get a check-up from our doctor before taking up a physical activity, few will ever do this. Yes it is probably a result of an industry fearing litigation, but a large percentage of people taking up running are doing so because they are unfit. Your doctor may recommend other light exercise first before graduating up to running.

Impatience and a desire for quick results is another reason so many fail to progress past the fourth week. Many will attempt to run too far and fast in the first sessions and experience pain and discomfort. It is no fun running in this condition so it's not surprising they soon stop altogether. A slow gradual build up of distance and speed will ensure that interest is maintained as new targets are met each week. This approach will also avoid the unpleasant sensations of burning lungs and aching limbs.

Running is an excellent activity for lifelong fitness and personal development. A few simple preparations combined with patience will take you through those first crucial weeks of training and onto a lifetime experiencing the pleasures of running.

by John Angel

Tips to Starting a Running Program

If you are interested in starting a running program, here are some tips to get you started.

First, decide why you want to run. This is your motivation. You will need to remind yourself of this often, especially in the winter when its very cold and windy outside. Motivation is what will get you started and keep you going.

Second, try to carve out time during your day when you know that you will be able to run. Maybe its 6am (like it is for me) before your kids are up and you r partner goes to work.
Perhaps it is during your lunch hour at work. Or maybe after work is your best time. Look at your schedule and find a place to write running in. Consider your running appointment as important as any other appointment that you make.

Third, get a good pair of shoes made especially for running. It is so important to get a pair of quality running shoes. Running can be hard on your joints and its vital that you get a pair of shoes that are made for your feet and your style of running. Your running goal makes a difference as well .If you are planning on training to run a marathon, the type of shoe you need may be different then if you are running shorter distances. I recommend going to a running shoe specialty store and getting their help in finding the best shoe for you.

Fourth, start slowly. Don't go out and run 5 miles your first time out. Determine your schedule based on your activity level NOW. Don't think about how active you were back in high school (unless you just graduated) or the fact that 10 years ago you ran 5 miles 4 times per week. What have you done lately? Its always a good idea to get the okay from your physician before starting any exercise program, especially if you have had any type of health issue in the past. If walking to the break room and then out to your car after work is the extent of your physical activity, you should start walking before running. Walk a mile or so a couple times a week before you start running. Remember, you will be sore, especially if this is your first physical activity in a while. Don't go too fast or you won't want to continue.

Running is a great activity that can help you lose weight, relieve stress and be a happier person.

by John Angel

How To Start a Running Program

Running or jogging is one of the best ways there is to lose weight fast. It burns tons of calories and gets your body burning fat. Running strengthens the heart, lungs and can be done just about anywhere at anytime.

The problem is most people don't know where to begin and usually do it wrong.

In this article I am going to show you an effective way to start a running or jogging program without killing yourself.

The first mistake people make when they begin a running or jogging program is that they run too fast. This will leave you out of breath and spent in about 5 or 10 minutes. When this happens people generally think to themselves that anyone who runs is crazy or likes punishing themselves.

This simply is not true. Once I found out how to run properly, I was able to run a few miles with ease and comfort.

I had been running for about a month and was up to two miles. But at the end of these two miles, I felt as if I was going to keel over and die. My legs hurt. My lungs hurt. Everything felt wrong.

I thought I would just keep running these two miles until it became easier, but it never did. It got harder, if anything.

Then I heard about a guy named Stu Mittleman. This guy had run from San Diego to New York in 56 days. Basically Stu ran two marathons a day for 56 days. So I bought his book called Slow Burn and it completely changed any negative feelings I had about running.

The first thing I did was bought a heart rate monitor. This cost around 100 dollars and was the best purchase I have ever made. It allowed me to monitor my heart rate and stay at a comfortable running level, even while running up hills.

What I did, was started running at 50 to 70% of my maximum heart rate. At first, I felt like I was going too slow and not getting a good workout. But within a week, I was able to run 4 miles without any problems. The best thing was that after the four miles, I felt incredible.

Instead of feeling like I was going to die before, I actually felt better.

To find your targeted heart rate zone, do the following:

Subtract your age from 220. Then multiply this by .50 and .70 and that will give you your targeted zone.

Example: Age 28

220-28 = 192

192 x .50 = 96

192 x .70 = 134

By this example, if you are 28, then you should be running in the heart rate zone of 96 to 134. To make it easier to remember, just round it up to 100-135.

If you are running in this zone, you will probably be very comfortable and be able to run a good distance.

You see, the problem people usually face is that they start off running too fast. You just need to slow down. It isn't necessarily how hard you run, but that you are moving as much as possible, as often as possible.

Once you begin to add mileage, you will get in better shape and be running faster anyways. You just won't be working any harder. Your body will adapt, and you will begin to move more efficiently, without more effort.

This program worked perfect for me, and has turned me into a runner for life. I hope it does the same for you.

by John Angel

Basketball Skill Development: Use These Five Tips To Solidify Your Shots

While a proper basketball skill set will take a lot more than just shooting into account, like proper defense and the essential skill of passing, no player can deny that they would like the ability to sink more baskets. And nothing is more concrete than adding more points to the scoreboard. So even though game should be versatile, every player will spend plenty of time working on their shooting.

Here are some simple tips for improving your shots and sinking more baskets.

1. Set Up By Getting Open

While this seems obvious when you're not dribbling down the court, the action in a game makes things a little more complex. A lot of shots are tossed on a sudden whim, as if grabbing a spontaneous opportunity, but these are most often the shots that brick or completely miss the basket.

Anticipating and setting up a shot is much more likely to end in a goal, so try to plan things out even while doing all you can to not telegraph that plan.

2. Use Your Teammates

Never be a ball-hog and just take a shot because you want to claim it. Not only does this create more missed shots but it damage's team morale.

Keep an eye on where all teammates are before taking your shot, and if someone is open for an easier basket than you, throw the ball to them instead. Knowing when not too shoot is just as valuable, and if you miss, you will be very sorry that you did not make the right decision.

3. Precision Focus

Once you've moved into shooting position, drown out everything else and keep your eye directly on the target all the way through the shot, keeping your attention specifically on the rim. All other obstacles and distractions should be zoned out. Always follow through to get the most out of your motions and hold focus until the last possible second.

4. Work on Passing

Passing really is part of shooting as what often starts as a shot will end up turning into a pass, and most of the same smaller skills and movements that lead to a good pass also add up to a good pass. And I cannot stress enough how important it is to capitalize on a pass that makes more sense than being a ball-hog.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

While it should go without saying, your shots should be practiced over and over and over and over again. Even once you feel you've mastered it in practice, you will often find your skills don't hold up in a game. The only way to defeat this is to keep practicing until you've developed enough confidence to stay consistent under pressure. It's all in your mind.

Check out some sensibly-price adjustable basketball hoops and consider getting one set up at home so you can practice in your free time. This is the type of dedication it takes to become a star shooter.

by James Druman

How To Jump Higher So You Can Dunk

Most people who play basketball dream of being able to dunk the ball. Dunking is the most exciting move in the sport and an automatic way to intimidate your opponents and excite the crowd. For players wondering how to jump higher and dunk the ball, today we're going to explain how it's possible.

The first thing you have to understand is that even if you're under 6 feet tall, it is still possible to dunk the ball! Many players assume that unless they're over 6 feet tall there is no chance of reaching the rim. This isn't the case!

Some of the most impressive dunkers I've seen are well under 6 feet, they have just worked on their vertical and trained their body to jump higher. Anybody has the ability to train their body to increase it's vertical leap by a substantial amount.

If you follow the right vertical leap training program, it's reasonable to expect an increase of at least 12 inches. If you stick to it, this should increase even further.

Imagine what adding a foot or more to your vertical would do - you would be a much better player. Your rebounding skills would improve, the range of your jump shot would increase - there's so many benefits.

So what does a vertical leap training program involve? Let's take a closer look so you know what you will need to do.

It involves training and targeting specific muscles that are used when you jump. They must not only be strengthened, but also worked in a way that makes them more "explosive".

As well, you will work on your form in order to maximize your jumping ability. In fact many people instantly add 3 to 4 inches just by making some simple changes to how they jump.


These training programs will reshape the way you jump by working on your form, explosiveness, muscle strength and technique. If you are committed and put in the work, being able to dunk is in your future.

The bottom line is that you need to take action and give it a shot! Imagine how great it would feel to go into the gym and show off your dunking skills! It won't happen overnight, but with the right training you should learn how to jump higher by 12 inches and more within just a few months.

by Grant Dougan

Here's a Simple Way To Be A Better Basketball Player

If you're a basketball player, it's normal for you to want to become a better basketball player. In fact, if you have the motivation to become better, you're already ahead of most other players. It's amazing how many people simply keep doing what they're doing and don't genuinely try to improve.

To be a better basketball player, there are several areas of your game that you can try to improve. Many people focus mainly on improving their jump shot. Obviously this is a huge part of the game and most people get the most enjoyment out of scoring when playing the game. However, it's important to recognize how many other areas of your game you can work on. Rebounding, blocking, passing - these areas and more will have a major impact on your play.

So what's a way you can improve several areas of your game and become a better basketball player in one swoop?

It's actually one of the easiest ways to become a better player yet almost all players overlook it. Work on your vertical leap! If you can jump higher, not only will you be a better player but also a more exciting one.

Think about all the areas that will benefit. You'll be a better blocker. A far better rebounder. You will extend your range on your jump shot.

And the most fun part is that you can increase your vertical to the point where you can dunk - probably the best feeling in the game!

I see too many players just assume that they will never be able to dunk - this just isn't true! You don't have to be extremely tall to be able to dunk, you just have to work hard at increasing your vertical leap. And the best part is that since so many people don't even try, you'll look like a king on the court!

And it is entirely possible to drastically increase your vertical - even by 15 inches or more - if you follow the right training program. It takes some work, but you can expect to add 6-12 inches in just a couple of months if you follow the right plan.

The key is to take action and do it! Imagine being able to jump an extra foot. Your teammates will be amazed by your improvement and if you keep at it, you will get to the point that you can dunk the ball.

by Grant Dougan

Basketball

Basketball is a wonderful sport played by many different people. There are several keys to being a great basket ball player. The first key is practice. Practice is a key element if you want to be good at basketball. Basketball needs not only talent but a lot of work. Another key to basketball is teamwork. Ball hogging never ever helps the team win. It causes teammates to be angry with one another and this doesn't work at all. The greatest basketball players also have a lot of assists too. They know when to shoot and when to pass. Another skill involving basketball is knowing what you are good at. When you know what you are good at you can do better. Let the big men play in the center and the smaller men play guards. Big men are great centers and can get the rebounds. Rebounding is a important factor. Because the more tries you get the better chance you have of making a basket. However, centers should not dribble the ball too much because they are always bad at ball handling and it is easy for the other team to get a steal. The shooting guards should set screens for each other. Screens allow open shots. Basketball is a wonderful sport that can be played by anyone. There are always great leagues that anyone can join. I loved playing Junior Jazz in Utah. That was a great activity. It also exercises all sorts of muscles. It is an excellent sport. People love to play basketball so you can always find someone to play with. If you remember the keys to the game it is a great sport. The basic keys are teamwork and practice. After these two everything else just falls right into place. Basketball is all about work.

by Jason Smith

Get Into Shape With Indoor Sports

Health maintenance is a big concern for most people. Everybody likes to stay physically and mentally fit and healthy. For this, they make use of balanced diet, regular exercise and indulgence in sports. Playing sports is a fun way to keep in shape but this can be hindered by extreme weather conditions. Too cold and too hot weather prevents you from playing sports such as cricket and volleyball. Sports clubs offer facilities to play indoor cricket and other sports so you can improve your health and make playing a fun and socially interactive activity.

Whether you are young or old, beginner or expert, indoor sports can be your best choice for keeping healthy and staying in shape during summer. The summer sun can be harsh on your skin and specially while playing an outdoor sports, it can really dehydrate your body. Playing the sports that you love in an indoor facility would be a better way to enjoy and be healthy at the same time as you do not have to rely upon the weather to be just right for your sport.

Most people have now become aware of the benefits of physical exercise. After a long and stressful day at work, you can blow off the steam by playing the sports which would improve your mood. It would also help you fight the chronic illnesses such as blood pressure. Regular physical exercise also helps in managing your weight. No matter what the weather is outside, indoor sports give you all the health benefits that your body requires.

As much fun sports are, joining an indoor sports club can be a good way of socializing, meeting new people and making new friends. It is a great opportunity to have a relaxing time with your family, friends and even colleagues which helps building up a friendly atmosphere at your workplace as well.

At the sports club you can choose to play indoor cricket, soccer, netball, volleyball and handball. If you do not have a team, you do not have to worry about making one as you will be placed in a team according to your level of expertise. If you are a beginner and need coaching, that would also be arranged for you.

It can also be a good fun place for younger children. They can enjoy sports through the junior sports program which includes indoor soccer and netball. Coaching is provided to improve the sporting skills, umpires are available and supervision is also provided. Children can also enjoy the same fun facility and make new friends at the club.

by Eva Judge

Best Sports Watches for People Who Love Sports

It is possible for people to choose the right watch no matter what sport is. Whether the watch will be worn in the water, on land or in the air, there is an appropriate sports watch with special features to help the wearer while they are active in their sport. timepieces meant to be worn during water sports at any depth are water proof. These waterproof timepieces are also designed for divers. Since many underwater divers need an oxygen tank, there are timepieces with a unidirectional rotating bezel, which is used to determine the amount of oxygen remaining in the oxygen tank. Diving timepieces may be equipped with markings painted with a luminescent material.

The most commonly purchased types of sports watches include digital, waterproof and stopwatches. Most sport's timepieces contain special features that aid in a fitness or sporting situation. Diving watches are created to continue working when divers reach deep levels in the sea. Stopwatches are created to time running distances and more. Some timepieces keep detailed information of heart rate, distance traveled, and the movement patterns of women. Different activities require the use of different types of sports timepieces.

There are several different types of sports watches. They can be broken down into the following broad categories: general purpose, specialty and multi-use. General purpose Sport timepieces are the most generic of Sport timepieces and have very basic features like hard plastic casing and a stopwatch mode. These watches are generally intended for general purpose use, and have minimal extra functions. Special watches for sports are targeted towards specific different sports. For instance, a sports watch targeted towards scuba divers will have special features like depth display and pressure resistance.

You should consider its purpose when choosing Sports watches. Think about the activities that will be carried out while the watch is being worn. If swimming, diving, or other water activities are not on the list, it recommended purchasing sports watch that has at least some water resistance features. This watch owns good waterproof function. Automatic watches rather than quartz watches are also often a better choice because they do not require battery replacing. Watches with lights in the clock face also work well for activities that may be carried out at night. When choosing your sports watches consider what special functions you will need.

by Ebalarde

All About Golf

Sunny laid back Sunday morning, extended weekends or a vacation, discussion on none of these is complete with out a mention of golf. What precisely is Golf? Well it's an outdoor ball game wherein the aim would be to hit the ball into a series of holes in the minimum feasible strokes. A round of golf consists of 18 holes. Now the number of strokes you need to hit 1 hole is your Par. Each hole has a teeing region around it, which consists of a fairway, a rough sideway along with a green well-mown region around the hole. Then you will find the "not so wanted" barriers like sand traps, water etc which are known as the bunkers.

It is believed to have originated from an ancient game called chole, supposedly meaning, "ball". Most of the individuals believe that Scotland is where Golf was born, probably out of a banned 15th century game called 'gowf'. However many folklore relate it as an acronym for Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden. The modern Golf came into being again in Scotland in the later half of the 19th century. Later on over the 20th century golf saw a facelift with a variety of golf equipments and techniques being invented.

Golf has woven itself within the social fabric as the game of the elite and high-end businessmen. Would you believe if we tell you that numerous US business school add golf to their management curriculum? It is a game of social status. After all 1 has to shell out huge sums on latest equipment, the right clothing and the green fees of the golf course. This has still kept golf away from the reach of typical man. Nevertheless, the massive popularity of the game could be judged by the extremely reality that there are over 32,000 golf courses within the world!

Players move around the golf course with their caddies who manage the equipments of the players. The player whose ball is farthest from the hole gets a chance to play initial when each individual player has had his chance of playing the ball once. The game is won by the individual or the team that scores the maximum holes. It can be played by teams in foursome or by people. A very interesting term taking rounds within the golfing community is "Golf handicap." This is the score of proficiency of various players, which affect their net score, thus allowing players of different capacities to play against each other.

Individuals say golf isn't played by rules but by etiquettes. However, you will find a couple of laid down rules. The most fundamental are "play the ball as it lies", "play the course as you discover it", and "if you cannot do either, do what is fair". A Golfer can play several types of shots such as tee shot, fairway shot, bunker shot, puts, pitch, flop, chip and a golf swing. A golf swing is the most complex shot that involves ideal coordination of the complete anatomy of the player.

Over the years golf equipment has grown in term of sophistication and technique. From golf balls, tees and clubs to golf carts, bags shoes, etc; it's a entire large marketplace out there. The British officers first started professional golf. Now you will find a number of Golf tournaments like PGA tour, Ryder Cup, U.S. Open etc. In this time and age when pollution is a big problem, the vast golf courses prove to be the breathing lungs of cities and towns where they are located. They nurture the local flora and fauna and offer a welcome respite from the concrete jungle.

by James Wulf