Last year, I began weight training with my two sons.My family often makes friendly wagers on football games. In this case, I had a bet with my older son, Chase, about Peyton Manning’s performance with the Denver Broncos when he returned from neck surgery. My terms were simple. For two months, Chase would accompany me to my weight lifting sessions.I won the bet. Three … [Read more…]

I remember the time in my life I was most obsessed with exercise. At 20 years old, home in Los Angeles for the baseball off season, I was at the peak of my training. It was January and I always started to feel like I wasn’t prepared for the upcoming season at precisely this time. I lifted weights in the morning, then headed to the field to throw, take swings and run in the … [Read more…]

Every January, folks around the world commit to better health. Unfortunately, many gravitate towards fad diets and cleanses as their jumping off point.  These diets make trendy claims about quick weight loss and detoxification. Those enticing promises are just enough bait to entice people to swallow the hook.For this new year, I suggest a different, fresh tactic. Start … [Read more…]

In 1999, I was a rookie with the Detroit Tigers. After a game, I strode confidently into the Kansas City Royals’ weight room, rested the weight bar on my shoulders and settled in for some heavy squats.  I rocked my hips back and dropped into my form, feeling totally in control. On the way back up, I got stuck. I leaned forward and the bar spilled over my neck. More than 500 … [Read more…]

Spending each day pushing awkwardly with one leg, squatting, swiveling the hips – it sounds less like fun and more like work.   I realized, however, my recent snowboarding trip could have very well posed as a health spa vacation.I don’t believe that calories are a good place to focus attention, but they can paint a useful picture.  Snowboarding on a mountain, at a moderate … [Read more…]