Featured Activity of the Month: Indoor Cycling

Indoor cycling classes are one of the best ways to engage in heart healthy cardiovascular exercise. Over time, continuous cardiovascular exercise can help lower the risk of coronary artery disease, lower blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, and lower overall resting heart rate. Another positive impact on health is the release of endorphins, which are the happiness inducing neurotransmitters that Elle Woods is so fond of in Legally Blonde. Endorphins can also enhance immune response and lower stress levels. Who doesn’t want that?

Indoor cycling can also increase muscle endurance and muscle strength in the lower body. Repeatedly exerting force on muscles can lead to increased muscular endurance. Cycling significantly impacts strength of quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calf muscles. Use of these muscles help to strengthen the surrounding bones, tendons, and ligaments. In order to maintain optimum health, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends that individuals perform 30 minutes of vigorous cardiovascular activity three times per week, or moderate intensity activity 20 minutes, three times per week.

If you are looking for a new activity to aid in weight or fat loss, this can be an ideal activity for you! Depending on the individual a 45 to 60-minute class can burn up to 400 calories. Combining spin with a healthy diet can lead to a change in the number you see on the scale!

Worried about the intensity of cycling? It can be low-impact if done correctly! If you talk to your instructor and educate yourself on bike safety there is minimal impact on hip, knee, and ankle joints. Just remember that these bikes are not one-size-fits-all! Always arrive to class early to set up your bike. Adjust the seat and handlebars to fit you. Again, do not be afraid to talk to your instructor. Instructors are there to assist you because they want everyone in their classes to have fun, and be safe. So, grab a bottle of water and a towel, and get ready to ride!

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8 Reasons Your Child should Play CP&R Baseball, Softball, or T-ball

Ball season is just around the coroner, which means fun nights at the ball park with families, friends, and your favorite fold-out lawn chair. It also means that kids are gearing up for the most fun, competitive time of year for them on the diamonds making new friends, learning new skills, and enjoying the crisp spring air outside. So what is so special about CP&R's baseball, softball, and t-ball programs that set it apart from anyone else's? Here are eight reasons your family will have a BLAST with us this spring at CP&R. 8. Facilities. CP&R features some of the most award wining facilities in the counrty at Heritage Park and the Field of Miracles. In fact, in 2013, Heritage Park and the Field of Miracles complex were recognized nationally by the United States Specialty Sports Association as the number one complex of the year amongst large and small cities alike all across America. The parks both feature state of the art fields that are maintained and worked on

Heritage Park Outdoor Circuit Workout #2

The second circuit for our Heritage Park fitness equipment is here! Modify these exercises to meet your specific needs. If you wish to mix these exercises in with those that were featured in our first post feel free to do so! Warm-up: walk 1.5-mile loop or do Cardio Stepper for 5-10 minutes Assisted Row W: 2 sets/ 10 reps M: 2 sets/ 15 reps Squat Press W: 2 sets/10 reps M: 2 sets/ 15 reps Reverse Crunches/Leg Raises W: 2 sets/ 25 reps M: 2 sets/ 25 reps Cool down: walk 1.5-mile loop *Take a 60-90 second break between repetitions or walk to each different station as a “break” ** Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine. Read safety warnings and directions before using new equipment

28 Things to Do in Cullman

Nothing to Do in Cullman? So many times we hear the old adage that there is simply NOTHING to do in Cullman. Despite these rumors, there are in fact endless possibilities for things to do in Cullman, and we at CP&R alone offer hundreds of programs, activities, and events as well as dozens of spaces that offer plenty to do in the Cullman community. Let’s look at what there really IS to do in Cullman! 1. Take your dog to the dog park at Heritage Park The dog park is a great outing for you and your dog and you will both surely enjoy meeting some new friends and the fresh air. 2. Go for a hike at Hurricane Creek Park Featuring over 4 miles of hiking trails through the most pristine and gorgeous wilderness in Cullman County, the park also features favorites like Twilight Tunnel and Heaven’s Staircase 3. Take a fitness class at the Cullman Wellness & Aquatic Center Take your pick with over 60 classes offered each week including target, spin, yoga, cardio party, Zum

Cullman City Parks & Recreation

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