Health Clubs Des Moines IA

Shop for the Season’s Best

Juicy summer fruits are an important part of a healthful diet, and farmer’s markets and natural/organic food stores are showcasing the very best: plump peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots, watermelon and cherries, among the most popular selections.

Now’s the time to load up your grocery cart and create some splendid organic fruit salads. If you have children, make sure they meet their daily nutritional requirements by snacking on their favorite organic produce—a surefire way to curb a sweet tooth.

“Check out local farmer’s markets at home or on vacation for summer snacks that are fresh, healthy and absolutely delicious,” says celebrity trainer Jeanette Jenkins, author of The Hollywood Trainer Weight-Loss Plan . “Markets can be a great way to explore the area and enjoy amazing treats without being tempted by junk food.”

Get the Most from Your Workout

Stay fit by following these important tips for summer workouts, courtesy of Olympic figure-skating champion Peggy Fleming. The gold medallist has teamed with HealthSaver , an emerging healthcare discount program that offers savings on complementary and alternative healthcare treatments, vitamins and supplements by mail, and more than 1,500 fitness clubs nationwide, including select Bally Total Fitness, World Gym and Ladies Workout Express locations.

Fleming encourages readers to:

• Stay hydrated, especially when you’re battling seemingly unmerciful heat. Hydrate before and after you exercise. If you don’t drink enough water, you’ll wear out sooner.

• Always stretch and warm up before exercising, which minimizes muscle soreness and helps prevent injuries.

• Take five minutes to gradually increase your pace, and allow another five minutes to cool down after exercising. Slowly decrease your rate of activity to help your body relax.

• Dedicate two days per week to weight-lifting to replace and strengthen the muscle you lose with age. Choose dumbbell weight based on the las...