Mountain Monkeys

posted by maggie on Nov 30

When most people think golf, they think of business meetings, or perhaps time at the 19th hole. However, there are a surprising number of health benefits to playing golf, or even working on a golf course. Let’s look at some of the ways that time on the golf course can help your health. Read the rest of this entry »

posted by maggie on Nov 28

Scuba diving is gaining in popularity around the world. This is because scuba diving allows you to see a beautiful world that many only see in pictures. Imagine diving below the water, experiencing beautiful marine life in a world of serenity. So many people are now experiencing the joy and bliss of scuba diving for recreation, health benefits and relaxation.

Before determining if scuba is right for you, make sure to do plenty of research on this activity. There are many articles and videos available online and several books at your local library regarding scuba diving. If you are interested in getting started, here are just a few things you need to know.

First and foremost, you must do your research and find a beginner diving training program near you. Remember that you need to be healthy in order to scuba dive. Check with your doctor if you are unsure if you meet the physical requirements for diving. Most scuba certification programs can be found locally. You do not have to purchase all of the gear before you begin. Most programs allow you to either borrow or rent all of the equipment necessary to train for scuba diving. Ask about equipment rental and fees associated with the class. Make sure that you find a program that will work with your schedule.

Remember that diving can be difficult to master and requires that you pay attention during classes. This will be essential to secure your safety and those around you on a dive. You will learn how to breathe using the equipment and understand hand signals under water. New divers must become familiar with diving masks, diving fins, buoyancy compensators, weights, diving flags, computers and instrumentation, and diving watches.

You will experience supervised training from a professional guide. Likely, your guide will need to be certified by one of the following groups:

Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) http://www.padi.com/scuba/

Scuba Schools International (SSI) http://www.divessi.com/

National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) http://www.naui.org/

World Organization of Scuba Diving (WOSD) http://www.wosd.com/

Scuba training can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Make sure if you are planning a vacation that you leave plenty of time for this type of certification. Ask in advance how long the certification process takes when you are researching courses. Remember, it’s important that you do not try to rush through a course. Scuba diving is a fun activity, but it’s important that you remember the risks and safety involved.

Once you have become certified, you will work on beginners’ dives. There are many scuba resorts that offer these types of dives. After certification, you can begin to enjoy the open waters. The sky is the limit on the places in the world you can go and see. Beautiful coral reefs and thousands of marine life are awaiting you. Once you determine that scuba diving is for you, you may want to consider purchasing your own equipment rather than continuously rent. Since the equipment is relatively expensive, make certain that you plan on doing several dives in your lifetime before making that commitment.

There are many beautiful locations around the world for scuba diving. One of the most popular locations for scuba diving and other fun, family-friendly activities is San Diego, Calif. There are so many attractions that you can experience in addition to scuba diving such as the San Diego Zoo and LegoLand. This is why San Diego is a premier location for scuba lovers. Did you know that there are packages to see many of San Diego’s parks, tours, museums and other attractions? The Go San Diego Card, for example, is one of the most comprehensive experience packages available for the San Diego area. Are you ready to start your scuba diving and travel experience?

posted by maggie on Nov 7

This guest blog post is brought to you by Brian Johnson. Brian is a freelance writer and currently obtaining his online edd degree from Creighton University.

You may have heard of them. They are called barefoot running shoes or minimalist shoes. Perhaps the most popular shoes to adapt to those wishing to run barefoot are those from Vibram http://www.vibramfivefingers.com. Although this footwear may look odd, those that use these shoes and other similar models swear by their effects.

Interest in minimalist or barefoot running has exploded in recent years. Many runners and cross-trainers are looking for this footwear. These shoes are designed to help the runner emulate barefoot running while simultaneously protecting the foot from hazards. Before you switch from your traditional sneaker, here are a few things to consider about barefoot running.

Since the beginning of humanity, barefoot running and walking has been around. It was only until the middle of the 1900s that running shoes became mass produced. These shoes were designed to help improve cushioning and give more stability for the runner. However, lately runners have been wondering whether all of the bells and whistles of the modern shoe really prove any benefit. They, instead, have decided to go back to the original design of running for man—a minimalist shoe that would help protect their feet while allowing them to run “barefoot.”

Some have indicated that they believe these minimalist shoes means they could run faster and are likely to have less injury. However, others argue that to run in these shoes means going back to running on the balls of ones feet. This is because traditional, padded running shoes help provide the cushion necessary for elevated heels and a heel-first strike to the stride. In order to effectively (and safely) run in minimalist shoes, the runner must go back to the natural running pattern of front of foot strikes first.

It’s important to also consider the shape of your foot before switching running shoe. For example, those with flat feet may have a great difficulty adapting to minimalist shoes. Those with higher arches reportedly have less trouble adapting their running strides. Remember that these shoes are not for everyone. In fact, it would be recommended that anyone considering a change in shoe consult their doctor. Those with any type of muscle or skeletal issue may do a great deal of damage to their bodies by changing their footwear. Remember, the shoe we wear is essential to our posture.

If you are considering a switch, also consider where you typically do most of your running. Even Vibram makes shoes with varying sole dimensions based on the running surface the runner typically finds his or herself on. For instance, if you are running mostly on a treadmill, a thinner sole may be appropriate. However, for those who run outdoors (on rocks, for example) a thicker tread should be used. Additionally, certain soles are made with more traction while others are not. Many shoe stores will offer free consultations on your running stride and foot shape. Consider taking advantage of such offers in order to get a better idea of what running shoe you require.

Although it may not seem like that big of a deal, the type of running shoe one uses can have huge health effects. Not only will you be more likely to stay in shape with a shoe that is comfortable for you, but the wrong shoe can actually compromise your body and result in increased likelihood for injury.

So when it comes to minimalist shoes, the answer really depends on the individual. While most everyone can attempt barefoot running, only certain individuals will find it beneficial. Those with flat feet, tendonitis and other conditions may do damage by running in minimalist shoes. This is why it’s important to consult a doctor if you suffer from any type of condition that affects your running. It’s always important to take time to make wise health decisions.

Personally, I still prefer regular thick soled running shoes.  Although many of my runner friends rave about the barefoot shoes, and claim they’ll never switch back. Have you tried them, and if so which do you prefer?

posted by maggie on Oct 1

We all love the great outdoors. Well at least those of us who love it, really love it. And this includes all of the great sports, activities and adventures that go along with it. The wilderness provides some excellent opportunities for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. Meanwhile, it also has the capacity to push us beyond our limits, discover new things about ourselves and to conquer some of our fears. Of course the possibilities aren’t limited to these two extremes, and most of the people who getaway for the weekend or even a single afternoon enjoy a variety of activities somewhere in the middle of the extremes. We all love to hop in our cars with the trusted Michelin tires and head out into the wilderness, though what we do there can vary.

It was previously mentioned that there are a diverse assortment of activities to engage in while you’re out exploring nature. And some are pretty intense and based on the thrill seeking adrenaline junkies, while others are meant to calm the soul and quiet the mind. One person might see a weekend with the extreme sports crowd as their path to Nirvana, and spend their time bungee jumping, or white water rafting, or one of a numerous other options. Meanwhile, the individual seeking peace and quiet as well as a balanced oneness with the environment might take a solo hike, spend time exploring the hieroglyphs and local wildflowers or pick a remote spot to practice their tai chi.

All of these options are possible and commonly practiced in various parks and recreation areas, designated forests and lake regions surrounding and just outside of cities. It also pertains to national parks that require a longer drive and proper tire rims . Most people enjoy the idea of getting out of town for the weekend or a day, and these are some of the common activities we enjoy, though the rest on the edges of the extremes. Somewhere in the middle of these extremes are the people who enjoy a nice canoe trip down the river or a bit of fishing out on the lake. Spending time with family and friends over an open campfire, properly maintained and extinguished of course, are some of the best weekend plans many people can think of. Regardless of which of these populations you might fit into, including those people who fit them all, spending time outdoors is good for you and you’re almost guaranteed to enjoy yourself. What more could you ask for?

posted by maggie on Jul 29

It is always a heartwarming feeling when a community comes together to remember someone who has made a difference in their lives as well as their community. There are so many people who dedicate so much time to making their community a better place and it is always nice when their efforts are not only remembered but continued within the community.

The city of Rockville will host the very first Carl Henn Memorial Bike Ride in remembrance of the Rockville resident, Carl Henn, who passed away in July of 2010. Henn was a longtime resident and was known as a civic activist, he made a very large impact on the city and his contributions will not be forgotten by the residents.

Henn was 48 when he passed away and he lived in Rockville for more than 20 years. He had a vested interest in civic activism and he served on both the City’s Environment Commission and the Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee. He was also the president of the Hungerford Civic Association. Henn was also in instrumental character in the creation of three community gardens within the city.

The Rockville Bike Advisory Committee has planned and will host the bike ride. The ride is an 11 mile memorial ride beginning at city hall. The planned route will make stops at four community gardens and the registration for the event is free and will take place on at the starting point.

Carl Henn was loved by the community and made a huge impact on many people’s lives. He worked hard to make his community a better place for people to live in and his memory lives on with the people in Rockville. This bike ride will serve to remind the people of Rockville to always work for something you feel strongly about. This memorial ride is proof that one person can make a huge impact on the community and the people around them.

posted by maggie on Jun 28

The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the oldest teams in the NFL. They are only preceded by four teams — the Chicago Cardinals and Bears, the Green Bay Packers, and the New York Giants. They were a part of the NFL almost from the beginning; although it wasn’t a smooth start.

Began in 1933 by Arthur Rooney, the Steelers were originally named the Pirates. The team struggled throughout the 30′s; facing severe losses and several coaches. However in the 1940′s things began to turn around for young team. The name was changed to the Steelers and, for the first time, they had a winning season. Even with many players going off to fight in the war they continued to excel, even winning an Eastern Conference title. When the American Football League merged with the NFL in the 1970′s, the Steelers switched to the AFC Central division and then went on to win their first division title. In 2009, the Steelers again made history by becoming the first team to win six Super Bowl Titles when they beat the Arizona Cardinals in Florida.

Throughout the years the Steelers have had several players and coaches nominated into the football hall of fame; Terry Bradshaw , Bobby Layne, Bill Dudley, and founder Arthur Rooney. Defensive tackle Ernie Stautner, no. 70 and also a Hall of Fame member, is the only player in Steelers history to have his jersey retired.

Despite the ups and downs the Steelers have experienced throughout the years, their fan base has remained fiercely loyal. It is not uncommon to see a truck driving down the road with a Steelers license plate frame or window stickers in states as far away as California or Arizona. Some fans even sport Pittsburgh Steelers watches and t-shirts.

You don’t even have to be a football fan to appreciate all that the Steelers have been through and the significant marks that they have left on the sport of football and the NFL.

posted by maggie on May 7

As the time comes near for another spectacular go in the great tournaments of the year, the press begins to watch the top tennis players. They’re observed for their diets, their fashion, the public behavior of their significant others, and occasionally even their training and preparations.

This deep interest in their personal lives is only matched by the interest in the event historically. There are many tennis buffs who can recall Wimbledon scores from years ago with an exacting detail that is admirable, or perhaps a bit disturbing. It’s all a part of the charm of the game, however, as the sport attracts fans from all walks of life. The pros themselves are no uniform lot, either, having come from a wide variety of backgrounds and places, and many of them go on to do more exciting things with their already exciting lives.

Few, however, have the kinds of “Where are they now?” stories that can live up to that or the Irish player Vere St. Leger Goold . He was, by all accounts, a top-notch player, and performed extremely well in the finals at Wimbledon in 1879. That would be enough excitement for most people to fill up the rest of a lifetime with good memories, but he apparently had more ambitions than going on to the French Open .

In 1907, he and his wife were leaving Monte Carlo, and left a trunk behind to be shipped separately. A porter with a good nose smelled something very wrong, and alerted the authorities, only to find that there were parts that made up the body of a very unfortunate woman. Apparently, she had lent the couple money and jewelry, and when she tried to collect from them, they decided to get rid of her. Sparing the ghastly details, St. Leger and his wife were both convicted. She died in prison after 6 years of a life sentence, and he died in less than a year at Devil’s Island, one of the most notorious prisons in world history. Stories like this make the game even more interesting, and fortunately, it isn’t a common fate for tennis tennis players.