Children seem to be consuming caffeine at a younger age and more frequently than ever before. I have observed middle school students beginning their day with a cup of coffee, a caffeinated soft drink, or a large "special" coffee drink and elementary school kids regularly drinking caffeine filled energy drinks. Some kids also skip meals only to include a "special" energy, coffee, or soft drink to get them through the day when they should be getting energy from real food, not caffeine and sugar.

As we live this fitness lifestyle, we are striving to achieve and maintain high levels of excellence. We have high expectations of ourselves and often push ourselves to extremes. There are so many parts of the lifestyle that need to fit together to achieve optimal results and growth, mentally and physically. The type and intensity of exercise and proper nutrition are well known components but NOT the only components! Many people get so wraped up in the day to day ins and outs of life that they tend to overlook the importance of sleep. Without an enough sleep, on a regular basis, we will not attain the success and results we work so hard for in the gym! The optimal average is 8 hours a night but I know not everyone can get the full 8 hours. While it is true that people can and do function with less than 8 hours, it has been proven to be the optimal amount needed for us to give our bodies for full recovery. We are constantly putting stress on our muscles, minds and overall bodies that it is essential to allow for the rest and recovery to keep us not only making progress but staying healthy!

A high percentage of collegiate and professional athletes begin the season dehydrated, putting their health at risk even before they begin strenuous workouts, according to researchers at Indiana State University.

Another summer weekend just came and went and now here we are yet again, on a Monday morning… With yet another opportunity to change things for the better; to make the dramatic improvements that you have been planning to make for so long.

Often times, the topic of hydration is over-looked and under-estimated. However, hydration during exercise is paramount to enjoying high energy and enhanced stamina. A simple pre-exercise snack and plenty of water should fuel well for a 30-45 minute exercise session. But, beyond 45 min, you'll want to pay proper attention your hydration during your hard workouts.