Quick Facts

TRAIN SMARTER, NOT HARDER

Terms & Techniques

Effective training begins with a solid understanding of basic exercise science.

ACE

The American Council on Exercise, leading nonprofit exercise professional and health coach certification organization. https://www.acefitness.org

Aerobic Efficiency

Efficiency of the body’s oxygen use, i.e. increasing the intensity of cardiovascular output while lowering the body’s perceived effort. 

Aerobic Exercise

In the presence of oxygen. For example, during aerobic exercise you are training at an intensity that is low enough for the respiratory system to provide oxygen that is necessary to support your metabolism. During aerobic exercise, the body’s source of fuel is fat cells. This efficient state can be maintained for longer periods of time.

Anaerobic Exercise

In the absence of oxygen. For example, during anaerobic exercise one is training at an intensity that is too high for the respiratory system to match in order to support metabolic processes. To combat this, the body begins to use glucose as its primary source of fuel (sugar cells are quick to metabolize for fast energy). This state can only be maintained for short periods of time before muscle fatigue sets in (due to a number of factors scientists are yet to determine with finality). 

Cardiovascular

Relating to the heart and blood vessels. For example, a cardiovascular cool-down focuses on a smooth transition from a higher heart rate/blood pressure during exercise to that of a normal resting state. 

Extrinsic Motivation

Motivation driven by external rewards such as praise or approval.

Free-weighted Exercise

Utilizing equipment that is unattached to the ground or other machinery, i.e. using dumbbells, kettlebells, or barbells. 

Functional Training

Training based on the knowledge that inefficient movement puts unnecessary negative stress on the body; functional training promotes strength, flexibility, and mobility for optimal use of the body.

Metabolism

The chemical processes occurring in the body in order to maintain life, i.e. the conversion of food to energy. 

Resistance Training

Any form of exercise that causes the muscles to contract against additional resistance, i.e. lifting weights or performing push ups.