Author: Cathy Jackson

Target Heart Rate and Borg’s Perceived Exertion level scale are both a means to gauge exercise intensity. Both methods are equally important in determining whether you are exercising at a level, which will optimally provide improvement in cardiovascular conditioning and keep a safe range. The question here is which method would be most appropriate for you to monitor how much effort you are expending during cardiovascular exercise. Using one or both of these methods is a means to enable you to see improvements in your resting heart rate, and response to exercise. To start, a definition of each method is…

Being able to read a food label is essential in making sure you choose the right foods for a healthy eating plan. Food Labels provide helpful information, based on nutritional facts, ingredients, where the food came from, whether it is natural or organic, and certain heath claims made about that particular food. The information found on food labels can be helpful in managing health conditions and alert those with food allergies. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and the USDA (Department of Agriculture) require that all food labels show the same nutrition and health information so you can compare foods…

All successful ventures start with a well thought out plan. Would you open a business without a business plan or go on a journey without mapping out your trip? Probably not, so why would you start a fitness or weight loss program without taking the time to write down a set of goals that you wish to obtain. Everyone starts out with thoughts of achieving success in their fitness efforts but sometimes failure happens not because of lack of commitment but because of failure to plan. Goals keep you motivated, provide direction and add purpose for exercise and dieting which…

Kids today are less likely to be active or physically fit than kids of past generations. Children love to play and move their bodies, but for many children today biking, playing ball, running, and other outdoor activities are a thing of the past and are replaced with watching TV, playing video games, texting friends, and playing on the computer. Poor eating habits are also to blame. With childhood obesity increasing at an alarming rate, kids are at risk for diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other health risk associated with obesity. In addition, a social stigma goes…

Fiber plays and important role in digestive health. It provides health protective properties that promote regular bowel movements, reduces heart disease, improves blood sugar control, reduces adult onset diabetes, and will aid in your weight loss endeavors – Yippee! The recommended daily requirements for Fiber are 25-30 grams per day. Did you know the average amount consumed by most people in America is less than 10-15 grams per day? Those numbers are staggering but believable considering what American’s eat on a daily basis. You should try to eat a variety of fiber-rich foods daily. Fruits, veggies and legumes are excellent sources. Nutrition experts…

Catherine (Cathy) Jackson has been in the fitness industry since 1985. She has been a nurse (LPN) for 7 1/2 years in Missouri and Arkansas working in Cardiac Rehab and a Physician’s office. She holds certifications as a Master Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Lifestyle Fitness Coach. She is certified currently through FiTOUR and has held other certifications through AFFA, NDEITA, and Aerobic Pipeline. She is a member of ACSM Alliance of Health & Fitness Professionals and IDEA. Cathy owns and operates Synergy Fitness, INC in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. She customizes one-on-one training, group personal training, and…