The Heart of the Matter of Exercise
The most important benefit of exercising is the strength and health of the most vital muscle in your body - your heart. Cardiovascular exercise is any type of exercise that increases the work of the heart and lungs. From running and walking on a treadmill, to elliptical cross-training or cycling, the physical benefits of cardio exercise include reduced risk of heart disease; improved blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels; improved heart function; reduced risk of osteoporosis and improved muscle mass. Resource: cardiogirl - Boutique Fitness for Women 255-8800

Affordable Treatments with Great Results
If you're suffering from frequent breakouts or just want to eliminate light scars and wrinkles, a chemical peel can provide instant results. Chemical peels can be used in conjunction with other skin treatments including microdermabrasion and light therapies to clear up any trouble spots on the skin's surface. Resource: Infinity MedSpa 259-8100
Give Your Fitness Routine a Spring Cleaning
The first step to regular physical activity is motivation - but if your feet, knees, hips or back hurt, maintaining that motivation can be tricky. Double check your athletic or walking shoes, especially if they're worn or not very new. Whether you're looking for a little more stability, or want a nagging pain to disappear, the better you feel in your fitness gear, the more likely you are to get moving. Resource: Foot Solutions 702-0070

Misuse of Medications by Seniors a Serious DangerOver-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbs, sedatives, antidepressants, pain medication and prescription medications can cause adverse drug reactions and fatal injuries. Frequently, the reactions to these medications include dizziness, instability with walking, falling and disorientation or confusion. These signs are often dismissed simply as the consequences of growing older, or as symptoms of another disease which may result in needing additional medications. Make sure the individual can read the medication labels. A record of all medications, along with the dose and time they are supposed to be taken, should be kept and updated frequently. This record should be taken to each doctor's visit to assist with the coordination of care. Store all medications in the original containers and in the same area. Choose an individual to manage the care of the senior and select a single pharmacy to fill all prescriptions. Resource: Myles McNamara, owner of Comfort Keepers In-Home Care 287-4200

What is a Bunion?
A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place, generally brought about by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the joint by the big toe. Since this joint carries a lot of the body's weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. Treatments include padding and taping; medication, physical therapy, orthotics, surgery with "The Minimal Bunionectomy," or Chevron Bunionectomy, which allows the patient to start walking the day of the procedure. Resource: Dr. Tony Avakian, chief of podiatry for Town Center Surgery and medical director of Valencia Medical Group 288-2321

The Sore Muscle Cure
Feeling sore muscles a few days after a workout is normal. This soreness is called the DOMS Syndrome (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness). It's caused from a build up of lactic acid that has accumulated in the muscle. You can alleviate this a few ways. Rub on Arnica cream after your muscles are sore - and you can even put it on before your workouts as preventive maintenance. Take magnesium to help the muscles "breathe." Magnesium transports fluids with nutrients necessary for recovery and helps flush out the lactic acid. Do a few warm up exercises and stretch out the soreness after every workout. Resource: Cheryl Broughton, director of Fitness Edge Boot Camp 888-671-6500