Race to the Finish!

Barefoot running is all the craze lately.  If you don't have the shoes or want to save your ego from wearing them, don't worry.  Here are some exercises to make your feet and calves strong enough to make it through that last mile:

• Squat Jumps (can add in weights for more resistance)
• Balance 
• Yoga poses, Bosu, Walk/Run on grass/sand
• Dynamic walking:
• Toes only, Heels only
• Calf raises: lift on your toes and lower back to the heels
• Parallel, Heels together toes apart, Big toes together heels apart 

Core Sport is hosting another C25K this year to prep you for the Wicked Halloween Run in Plymouth, MI (costume contest included).  Join us by registering today to learn more tricks to make your next run the fastest yet!

Thank You: Open House Success!

Thank you for making our 2011 Open House such a success!  We had a wonderful time mixing and mingling over beautiful Lululemon clothing, sampling Lunches by Lisa, trying on Stella & Dot jewelry,  learning about TraEva towels for fitness, and helping support the Haiti Orphan Rescue Program.  So far we have raised about $2,500!

Not able to attend?  There is still time to make a donation to this wonderful cause.

Don't forget about our final Pilates for a Purpose donation Mat class taught by Core Sport Owner Jamie White.  100% of funds raised will support the Haiti Orphan Rescue Program on Saturday, July 16th 2011 @3pm in the Kellogg Park of downtown Plymouth.  Register now and bring along your friends and family for a workout to support this great cause (all donations are tax deductible)!

 

New to Core? Get This Groupon Deal Now!

$49 for Personal Training and Pilates Classes ($158 Total Value)

Groupon Deal (Click Here)!

Without fitness instructors, ambitious sit-ups become reluctant crunches and eventually degenerate into gym-floor naps. Stay alert with today's Groupon: for $49, new clients get a personal training session (an $80 value), a Pilates equipment class (a $38 value), and two group classes (a $40 value) at Core Sport Pilates Fitness Studio (a $158 total value), with two locations in Plymouth. Group classes and personal training sessions are held at the Penniman Avenue location; Pilates equipment classes are held at the Main Street location.

The United States Pilates Association–qualified posture-improvers at Core Sport mold bodies with routines that bolster core strength and extend flexibility. Personal trainers meld heart-pumping cardio and strength training with balancing poses and flexibility maneuvers that are custom-formulated to each individual client. Pilates equipment classes center around devices such as the tower, which harnesses the power of spring resistance to give muscles the beauty and resilience of a fully-compressed pogo stick. A potent arsenal of Gratz apparatuses, free weights, resistance bands, and medicine balls facilitate a stretchy, bouncy fitness regimen. Seasoned Pilates instructors lead gaggles of Pilates practitioners in one-hour group classes scheduled daily, such as the floor-based Pilates mat class and a boot camp class that aims to fortify cardiovascular endurance. Core-strength Pilates training develops the body as a whole rather than a collection of parts and zones, so clients don't run the risk of an odd number of abs.

Mirrors inside Core Sport's studio reflect a playground of workout gear arranged on pale wood floors. Windows cast calming natural light onto the leg-lifts, back-bends, and face-squeezes of practicing students.

Core Sport's new client offers, such as one free week of group classes, a $35 personal training session, or one free Pilates equipment class are available even after this Groupon has been redeemed.

Improve Your Golf Game

Want to get the most out of your golf swing?  Some of the most common problems during your golf swing are caused by physical limitations in your body.  These same limitations can cause pain in different areas as well.  

Here are some examples of common swing faults that can be helped with proper exercises specific to your swing:


Loss of Posture or C-Posture (think hunched over)
This will cause a limitation in your backswing and lack of rotation resulting in limited distance and lower back pain.


Early Extension (your butt comes away from the back line)
Your hips are coming closer to the ball during the downswing which causes the upper body to lift up and results in inconsistencies with ball striking.


Simple at home tip: Balance is key when it comes to golf.  You should be able to balance standing on one leg at a time for at least 30 seconds each side.  Now challenge yourself and repeat by doing it with your eyes closed!    


"After working with Jaime, I could see greater core and abdominal strength and more flexibility all over. I could not believe how much my balance had improved in my golf swing. With my increased shoulder turn, I was 25-30 yards longer than before." -Bill C.


At Core Sport we have training from Titleist which can provide you with the tools and corrective exercises to increase your range of motion, stability, and strength specific to whichever swing fault ails you.  Book a private session today or reserve your spot in one of our golf workshops throughout the year!

Open House!

Core Sport Open House June 30th!

• 
  
  Event Kick Off: "Pilates for a Purpose" @5:30-6:30pm (Penniman location)  Donation based Pilates Mat class lead by instructor Meghan Fidge.  Must pre-register.  $10 suggested donation.  All proceeds go to the Haiti Orphan Rescue Program.

  Main St location (above Compari's resturant) opens @6:30pm

  

  
  
  Featuring:

  • Trunk Show Sponsored by Lululemon (http://www.lululemon.com/)
  • FREE Food & Drink
  • FREE Fitness Demos
  • Meet & socialize with our instructors
  • Silent Auction
  • Raffle Items
  • Other local Plymouth Vendors all benefiting H.O.R.P.
  • And so much more!

  

  
  

Plymouth YMCA Father's Day 5K 2011

Great job to everyone who came out to the Plymouth YMCA Father's Day run!  What a beautiful, summer day for a run.  Core Sport was there doing the 5K with our runner's group and had an amazing time.  We are excited to continue the tradition next year!

Happy Father's Day!

June 14th, 2011 Fitness in the Park with Core Sport: Video

Awesome work those of you who joined us for Fitness in the Park this week!  We will be doing more in August and September so stay tuned for more info.  In the meantime, here's a video with some of the moves you can practice at home:

Pilates for a Purpose

Love Pilates?  Looking to make a difference?  Join Core Sport in "Pilates for a Purpose" donation based Pilates Mat classes held throughout the summer.  

All proceeds go to the Haiti Orphan Rescue Program.  

There is a suggested tax deductable donation of $10/class.  

Call the studio to register now!  

  

• Where: Core Sport, 829 Penniman Ave, Plymouth, MI 48170
• 
  
• Dates: June 18th, 2011 @3pm/June 25 @3pm/June 30 @5:30pm (before Open House)/July 16, 2011 @ 3pm
• 
  
• *Must register to reserve space for June 18th, 25th, & 30th dates since space is limited.
• *July 16th class will be held in Kellogg Park.
• Classes taught by Jamie White and Meghan Fidge.

• *For more info on Haiti Orphan Rescue Program or to donate please visit: http://haitiorphanrescue.org/

• Register on our Website: http://www.coresportstudio.com
• Or Call: (734) 459-1547

Core & Yoga

What really is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?  Lets start by looking at this diagram for a visual of the differences:

Joseph Pilates was inspired by both Eastern and Western forms of exercise when developing his method, so there are many similarities.  As shown in the center of the diagram both improve posture, reduce stress, increase flexibility, and work on balance.  In both classes you might rest in Child's pose or Shell stretch.  Similar exercises may include: Cat/Cow, Thread the Needle, Treading in a Downward Dog, Plank, or Seated Twist.  

However, each mind/body practice has their own sequence and flow of exercises.  This promotes a different pace with each class.  One big overall difference is the breathing.  In Pilates you pull in your stomach rather than allow it to fill with your breath.  Pilates is also continuous movement instead of holding postures as in Yoga.  Another difference is that Pilates can use equipment with springs for resistance for quicker results when looking to tone up.  In summary, both are safe and effective forms of mind/body workouts.  Choose your favorite or do both to compliment one another.

New for summer, Core Sport now offers a Core Yoga class taught by Donna Collins (Pilates and yoga certified) on Tuesdays @7:30pm.  Check out the Schedule to register now!  

Fitness in the Park with Core Sport!

Jamie White will be leading the community in a FREE resistance band workout on Tuesday June 14th, 2011 stating @6:30pm at the park in Plymouth, MI.  Afterwards there will be stretching and discounted shopping at Sun and Snow Sports.  Snacks included.  Sponsored by Lole.  For more info click here.  See you there!

Fitness for Pre/Post Pregnancy

Summer is in the air bringing with it new mommies and moms to be. How do you stay fit or get your pre-kid body back into shape?  A mix of Pilates and yoga is an excellent start!


In these forms of fitness, movements can be modified as your body changes over time.  Pilates and yoga are also both low impact and use your body for resistance which is safer than cardio or weight training.  Most importantly, stability workouts such as Pilates are important as your center of gravity and core muscles change.

*Important: Make sure your doctor has given you the green light to exercise.

During pregnancy the abdominal muscles will stretch to over 50% of their original length and create a diastasis after about 20 weeks.  This means your core has separated (can be several inches) and it will take patience before you will have the strength prior to pregnancy.  

Abdominals before and after pregnancy

Take privates or a pre/postnatal classes to ensure you are moving safely.  Basic warm ups will feel different since your body has changed rapidly in the past few months.  In time you will begin to feel more connected in your core and confident.

A great resource to check out is Pilates for Mommies. This goes into greater detail of how the female body changes over time as well as helpful Pilates exercises.

Looking for a class to connect with other moms?  Core Sport studio is now offering a Pre/Postnatal Pilates Workshop starting Saturday June 18th, 2011 @9-10am taught by a mom herself, Brenda Freeman.  You must pre-register since space is limited!  Visit our Workshop page or Scheduler for more info.

100 Day Challenge: Eat Better & Get Active

Are you up for the challenge?      

10 Days x 10 Challenges = 100 Day to a Healthier You!

So far we are on challenge #3 of Core Sport's 100 Day Challenge.  First let's recap our previous challenges for those who might be behind:


Challenges #1: Eat 10 servings of vegetables each day for the next 10 days!


Ideas to help you get more fiber and green into your diet:

• Stuffed peppers
• Salads (Oriental Chicken Salad)
• Stir fry
• Salsa (Avocado Feta Salsa)
• Veggies & Dip (like Spinach & Artichoke Dip or Humus)
• Add veggies to pasta dishes or stick to tomato based sauces (Spinach & Artichoke Pasta)
• Side dishes (Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole)

Challenge #2: Minimum 10 minutes of activity each day for 10 days!


Ideas to help you go out and be more active:

• Walk with family, friends or your dog(s).
• Take the stairs or park further away
• Try a new fitness class (Zumba, Bosu, Pilates, TRX, Bootcamp)
• Play a sport (golf, volleyball, tennis, basketball, horseback riding, skating, biking, swimming, ect.)
• Garden or do other household chores (yes, vacuuming counts)
• Play a game (lawn darts, hide and seek, tag, croquet)
• Go to the zoo, aquarium, or camping

Challenge #3: Eat breakfast if you don’t currently. If you do, challenge yourself to eat small smart snacks every 2-3 hours for 10 days. (May 30th-June 8th)


Ideas:

• Hard boiled eggs (perfect to grab on the go)
• Omelets (Athlete's Omelet)
• Low-fat yogurt (stir in granola, fresh fruit or nuts)
• Cheese/peanut butter & crackers
• Banana or plum
• Rice cakes & apple butter
• Oatmeal (add honey, cinnamon, or dried fruit)
• Smoothies (Cherry & Blackberry Smoothie)

Want to be part of our challenge and track your progress?  Contact us by e-mail (frontdesk@coresportstudio.com) for a tally sheet today to start making positive changes toward a more happy, healthy you!

Dynamic vs. Static Stretching

How do you warm up and cool down before a big game or race?  Do you march in place to get your blood pumping (dynamic) or take a forward bend to touch your toes (static)?  You may be surprised, but the type of stretching you  do can effect your overall performance.


Dynamic warm ups are a great way to prepare the whole body for activity!  This is an "active" form of stretching.  Dynamic stretching works to elevate your heart rate, increase core temperature, and prepare the body/mind with functional movements.  Remember, this does not include bouncy or "jerky" movements (otherwise known as ballistic stretching).  Dynamic warm ups help to decrease injury, prepare you to become mentally focused,  increase speed/force, reduce muscle stiffness, and increase fluid to lubricate the joints.  

Static stretching is best used when the body is already warm such as at the end of your cool down.  The main focus is to increase range of motion (ROM).  Make sure you hold static stretches for at least 30 seconds to reap the benefits.

Want to learn more about proper warm up and cool down methods to enhance your performance?


This Summer in both June/July of 2011, Core Sport is hosting Speed & Agility classes @ Canton High School on Tuesdays 7am and Thursdays 9am.  We will teach dynamic warm ups to improve flexibility and mobility.  These workshops are beneficial for any sport or endurance training.  Be sure to visit our Workshops page or Scheduler to sign up you and your kids today!

Walk, Run & Repeat

Thanks to the Couch to 5K program , Core Sport is on its 3rd annual free running group!  This year as incentive there is a local YMCA race on the final week for participants to really put their skills to the test. 

There is still time to attend the final weeks of the running group which meets on Sundays @7:15am at our Penniman studio.  Strollers and dogs are also welcome to join.  Remember to get in on the fun by volunteering or signing up for the Plymouth YMCA race on Father's Day (1 mile, 5K or 10K).  Core Sport will see you there!


Looking for other races this spring/summer?  Check out these links for exciting 2011 events held in Michigan:

• Triathlons (Core Sport Instructors will be at some of these finish lines providing FREE stretching)
• Running Fit Race Calendar (Triathlons, 5K, 10K, ect.  "Red Carpet Run" is a very fun 5K for any newbie)
• Running in the USA (any race, anytime, anywhere)
• Champions for Charity (1mile, 5K, 10K races for charity with awesome finish lines such as U of M football filed or Comerica Park)
• Michigan Running Foundation (lots of great 5K & 10K races)
• Run Michigan
• Race It

New Posts Coming Soon!

New Content is on its way!  Stay Tuned this June as we re-launch our blog and explore:

• Exercise of the Month: Pilates, TRX, Bosu, Free Weights, Foam Roll, Stability Ball
• Tasty Recipes the whole family will enjoy!
• History of Fitness
• Benefits/Types of Massage
• Instructor of the Month: Meet the Instructors of "Core Sport" in Plymouth, MI
• Workshops & Local Events
• Many More!

CLASS LISTING AND PACKAGES

Penniman Ave Class Pricing

1st class FREE

10% off your 1st package

Drop in Class $20

6 Pack of Classes $108

12 Pack of Classes $204

18 Pack of Classes $288

24 Pack of Classes $360

www.coresportstudio.com

to reserve a spot in class or call 734-459-1547

Bootcamp: A Full-Body Workout that incorporates fat burning strength, cardio endurance, balance, dynamic flexibility and core strengthening.

Pilates Mat: This class is led by highly trained private Pilates instructors that will take you through the Classical (TM) floor work series. This class is taught the way Joe Pilates originally intended it to be taught. Increased core strength, better posture and improved flexibility.

TRX Group: A must try class for all levels, this piece of equipment suspends from the ceiling to give you a full 360 degree body weight workout with the ability to have all levels in the same class. Don’t just think its for Beginner’s. It was developed by a Navy Seal!

Core & Restore: Definitely a class that will leave you rested, de-stressed, and stretched. The room is comfortable and lit by candlelight to set the mood for restorative yoga, some very gentle Pilates exercises and other relaxation stretches. What a great way to end a Monday and get over humpday!

Core Circuit: A core strengthening class that uses a variety of exercises and equipment to focus on full body toning with a core strengthening component in almost every exercise. Similar to our Bootcamp but without the Sarge, and open to all levels.

Full Body Resistance Bands, Butt, and Core:

This is a class you can feel in all the “right” places the next day. Uses all resistance bands for toning the entire body with a special emphasis on Butt, Hips and Core. Great results in a fun class that is easy to incorporate into Vacation or home workouts.

Yoga-Pilates Fusion: This famous combination of 2 very effective methods of exercise will leave you feeling toned, taller, and more relaxed. The owner of core sport first fell in love with both of these forms of exercise through the same style of class.

Stability Ball Core & Full Body Strength: Always wanted to know what to do with that ball rolling around in your spare room. There are hundreds of exercises that use the entire body to improve core strength and increase stability around your joints. All Levels Welcome, challenge your core!

Core and Flexibility: This class is very good for athletes of all levels and specifically focuses on exercises for rotational sports such as golf & Tennis. 1/2 of this class focuses on core strength & stability exercises and the other 1/2 is on Flexibility and increased Range of Motion. This is a great class for everyone but especially for those involved in Rotational Sports to decrease risk for injury and improve overall performance.

Main Street Class Pricing

1st Class Free & 10% off your first package

Drop-in Class $38

5 Pack of Classes $175

10 Pack of Classes $330

20 Pack of Classes $600

40-Pack of Classes $1040

www.coresportstudio.com

to reserve a spot in class

or call 734-459-1547

Pilates Tower Class: Equipment based Pilates Class that uses spring resistance for increased strengthening. sculpting, and assistance with flexibility. This Tower equipment class is famous in NYC for it’s remarkable results in an affordable price range. Core Sport is the only Studio in Metro Detroit offering a Classical Tower Class styled after the famous classes in NYC.

Guaranteed to have you feeling taller, leaner, and connected to your core!

TRX/Tower Combo: Our Popular TRX full body suspension class combined with Pilates Tower. 1/2 of the class will get your heart rate up with TRX and weight bearing strengthening followed by 30 minutes of Pilates tower. You can’t pair two better forms of toning!