All-Star Sports Academy Chatter

(Little) Girls and Kettlebells!

2011-04-29T14:47:00.004-04:00

Hey! It's never too early to start swinging! Kettlebells, that is!

Emily and Madison show you how it's done! At 11 and 10 years old, respectively, they're already on the right path!

Take a look:

Kettlebells offer unique training variables. Good swings create effective glute activation and better knee stability for girls and women.

What does this mean for you (and your daughter/sister/teammate?)

The opportunity to VIRTUALLY ELIMINATE non-contact knee injuries like the ACL tear and even sprains and strains!

Contact us here to find out more about how we help girls play stronger, faster and longer without knee pain and injuries. I want to be faster, stronger and injury-free!

How about you? Are YOU swinging in the Athlete Underground?

Twinkies, the Ultimate Fitness Food ?!?

2011-04-19T14:15:00.002-04:00

Would YOU like to lose 25 pounds or more in just 2 short months?

Would you like to lose that weight while eating nothing but Twinkies, Ho-Ho’s, Devil Dogs, Little Debbie snacks and other convenience store goodies

Well…YOU CAN! Or so it would seem.

That was the experience of one Associate Professor of Nutrition at the Kansas State University. In so doing, he helped to prove a point I’ve been making for years. A calorie is a calorie.

He also helped reinforce a basic and accepted law of physics proven by Einstein, Newton and many smarter people before me. That law is simply this: energy taken in by a body versus the energy expelled by a body will result in either mass lost or gained.

Professor Mark Haub spent 2 months last summer eating nothing but sugary, crème filled snacks like Devil Dogs and Twinkies and lost 27 pounds in 2 months! Amazing, right? Wrong!

You see, the real reason Dr. Haub dropped the 27 pounds is that he did the one thing that will always result in a loss of mass (body weight) for any body. He reduced the amount of energy he took in!

Dr. Haub reduced his caloric intake from 2,600 kcal per day to 1,800 kcal per day during the specified period. Since a pound is made up of 3,500 calories, we can do some simple math and deduce the largest portion of his reduction. Almost 14 of the pounds he lost are attributable to the 800 kcal per day caloric deficit he created.

The remaining 13 came from the increase in activity he undertook during the study period. There; simple math and a simple fact: calories (energy) in vs. calories (energy) out equals mass (weight) gained or lost.

I’m NOT endorsing the Twinkie diet, or any other ridiculous “diet” plan out there. What I am saying is what I’ve said for over 12 years. If you consume fewer calories than you burn each day, you will reduce your weight. Period.

When it comes to the essential definition of a calorie, one calorie of Twinkies is equal to one calorie of steak is equal to one calorie of salad is equal to one calorie of Haagen Dazs Vanilla Swiss Almond Ice Cream.

This doesn’t mean you should ignore the quality of the calories you put in your body. It simply means that energy (calories) and mass (body weight) are related. Duh!

What we do know about calorie quality is this: whole foods have a far more thermic effect on the body. Additionally, our bodies tend to burn the calories from whole foods better and more readily than those from processed foods.

Scientists at Pomona College in California recently published a study in Food and Nutrition Research which showed that processed foods reduced the rate of diet-induced thermogenesis – calories burned while eating and in digestion - by almost 50% when compared to meals made of whole foods.

When you consider that up to 10% of your total caloric expenditure for a given day may be the result of diet-induced thermogenesis, a 50% boost starts to sound pretty good! For a 2,000 calorie a day diet, that’s an additional 100 calories burned just because you choose whole foods. That adds up to one pound lost every 35 days, provided your output (exercise and activities of daily living) are equal to your intake (food.)

So in theory you could eat a reduced calorie diet consisting of Twinkies or Snickers bars. But why would you?

Eat a varied, fresh, whole food diet and watch your “burn rate” go up. Reduce caloric intake and watch the weight come off.

Do both in conjunction with smart exercise (try this Power Fitness Camp) and watch the body fat fry off while you chisel the muscle! Soon, you’ll reveal the great physique hiding under that layer of “insulation”(you know, F-A-T!)

If you’re looking for an organic, whole food snack that’s delicious AND convenient, you have to try Prograde Cravers! Read about them here Prograde Cravers! and find out how they can satisfy your craving and help you maintain the “burn” of thermogenesis!

Cloud Circuits...gotta love 'em

2011-04-10T14:38:00.005-04:00

Saturday April 9th.

A beautiful spring day.

Great day to "blow it off" and relax, right?

WRONG!

It was a great day to be in the Athlete Underground!

"Cloud Circuits!" 3 exercises per cloud, 5 clouds. 2 minutes to work, NON-STOP, with 1 minute rest.

Now we're talking Athletic Circuit Training!

Here's a quick look:

Questions? Contact us right here:

Still struggling with what supplements you should be using? The nutritional products you need are right here!

One "tiny" factor in YOUR energy levels

2011-04-05T10:45:00.001-04:00

Many things affect our energy levels.

Some of us just don't get enough sleep. Others have our sleep habits disrupted by repeated schedule change and interruptions. People working swing or night shifts and parents with newborns and infants know just what I mean.

Stress is a big energy drain. Manage your stress (sleep, diet and exercise all help...I know, easier said than done!)

Others are affected by pharmaceuticals, either prescribed or recreational. Everything from alcohol to the harder stuff can take a toll on energy levels.

Diet and exercise, of course, also impact our energy levels. But aside from the obvious things like calorie intake, sugar and fat intake and lack of (or too much) exercise, there's a "tiny" factor that greatly impacts your energy levels and how your body produces energy.

Mitochondria are microscopic structures in your cells. In muscle cells, they produce ATP, or adenosine tri-phosphate, which your muscles use to create energy for movement. Here's a closer look:

An "inside" look at your mitochondria

Many things can affect mitochondrial ATP production as well as the number of mitochondria in your cells.

Diet and exercise are two big factors. Regular exercise can increase the number of mitochondria in your cells, providing the potential for more energy production.

Poor diet and lack of certain critical nutrients, however, can hurt your mitochondria and your energy production.

Here's a great article that talks about some specific nutritional action YOU can take to nurture your mitochondria and crank up your energy production: Secret Microscopic Help in Your Weight Loss Battle!

The writer describes some specific things to do and eat to make these little engines chug along better!

If you want help with the exercise side of the equation (and the nutrition side) contact us!

Getting Enough Fruits and Veggies? This Can Help!

2011-04-01T09:31:00.001-04:00

It's recommended that we eat 6-10 fruits and vegetables a day. That's what's been suggested to maximize vitamin, mineral and antioxidant intake to maintain good health, healthy weight and avoid the conditions and diseases associated with poor diet and obesity. Here in the States it is reported the actual average of fruits and veggies eaten each day is just 2.

Yup, just 2.

Now, I don't know where you stand on this, but overall, it really is a sad state of nutritional affairs. We live in a world where we're constantly under time, work, family and other stresses. We often reach for the foods that are most convenient, but not always the ones that are most nutritious.

Unfortunately, potato chips may be made from potatoes (maybe) but they don't count as vegetables. And "drinking" your veggies in the form of some mutated fruit juice is not going to get it done either.

Coffee comes from a plant and beer is made from grains (barley malt, wheat) and "veggies" (hops) but these don't fill the bill, either. It would be nice if they did, but no dice.

But do not despair! It's not that tough to get more fruits and veggies in each day.

Here are some super simple tips to get you started:

1) Buy 'em already chopped

Look, I can be lazy, too;-) There's nothing wrong with not wanting to go through the hassle of having to chop up fruits and veggies. If you want to buy them pre-chopped go ahead. It's much better for you than not eating them. Alternate: Spend an hour a week chopping vegetables and fruits into serving sizes. Then you'll be able to:

2) Carry 'em with you

Load up a plastic baggie with your pre-chopped veggies and bring them to work. Seriously, see how easy this can be! Especially if you've used my suggestion from #1! Bringing the "right number of bags and making sure to eat them all is a great way to ensure maximum fruit and veggie intake, even in a stressful, busy day!

3) Add real fruit to your yogurt

Have some yogurt for breakfast and add some fresh blueberries, raspberries or blackberries. It's that simple! Cherries, bananas, red grapes, chopped plums, chopped nectarines, chopped peaches and chopped pears also work. Whatever fruits you like, use 'em in your yogurt!

You can even crank up the fiber content by adding a few tablespoons of high fiber cereal!

Bonus tip: A great way to provide your body with the nutritional foundation you need each day is a Whole Foods based multi-vitamin. Prograde Nutrition VGF 25+ is one example. It's made from 25 veggies, greens and fruits. There are other great whole-food based multi's on the market and if you know of one, go for it. This one is a great one, however, providing maximum bang for the buck.

Here's another great article on how to be sure you're getting enough fruits and vegetables each day: Getting Enough Fruits and Veggies?

Be sure to use these tips and let me know how they help you out. Or send me some of your own!

Chocolatey Goodness...and GOOD FOR YOU!!

2011-03-29T09:16:00.001-04:00

Hey...a quick post today...

Here's a little chocolate treat that will make you smile. Best of all? It will help you get your sweet on without filling out your waistline!

Enjoy!

Delightful Dark Chocolate Chunk Muffins

Preheat your oven to 350, then mix:
• 2 eggs
• 1 c. unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 1 c. shredded zucchini (peeled before shredding)
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 3 tbsp. agave syrup

Whisk well then add:
• 1/2 c. Quinoa (uncooked, dry; preferably red)
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 c. gluten free pancake mix
• 1 tsp cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 scoops Prograde Chocolate Protein powder

 Blend more till smooth. If desired, add 1/2-3/4 c. dark chocolate chips or chunks.
Note: Your batter will be very wet.
Pour the batter into muffin tins, bake 'till they spring when you touch them, about 15-20 minutes.
Let them rest on a counter for 10-15 minutes to cool. The quinoa becomes nutty and delicious within the muffins.

These are best served cooled.

Makes 1 Dozen.

Nutrition Facts: (per 1 muffin)

Calories: 86
Protein: 4 gms
Carbohydrates: 13 gms
Fat: 2 gms

"Sound Bite" Training is hurting our youth athletes

2011-03-21T11:15:00.001-04:00

"Put 4 inches on your vertical in just 4 weeks!"

"Be the fastest player on the field in just 6 weeks!"

These are the kind of "sound bite" claims being made by traіners who want to traіn your kids.

Right now, as you read this, these frauds are trying to dupe you!

If you're not sick of them and the culture they foster, I am.

6 week traіning programs aren't helping our athletes improve. They just don't work.

Yet that's pretty much all you see out there. Inflammatory, sensationalized flyers, brochures, ads and websites telling you how fast, strong and powerful your kids will get in 6 weeks with "Super traіner!"

It's a bunch of crap.

And it's a major cause of іnjury and over-traіning in youth sports.

Whenever I hear or read one of these traіners' claims about the miracles that will happen to your kid in his or her 6 week program, I ask the same question.

Then what?

Short term traіning programs are like promises in a political campaign. They sound great. They appeal to our desire for improvement and success.

When first presented, they make all the sense in the world. They generate excitement.

They're convincing, display clarity and simplicity, and like political campaign promises...when the chips are down and it's time to deliver, nobody can remember them.

Not that it matters; there's no chance they'll create lasting change or success. Like the political sound bite, the short term traіning program is intended to get your vote!

With the traіning program, you vote with your time, your hopes, your enthusiasm...and your money. Not to mention your kids' health!

What happens when the 6 week miracle traіning program is over?

Do you really think those improvements will stick?

Will your kids be more іnjury resistant?

Will they have learned proper traіning techniques, ones that will help them progress consistently, play better in the long term and enjoy their sport(s) more?

Or will they simply learn to focus on a "product" instead of a "process?"

You see, coaches and traіners too often use "product" based coaching, rather than focusing on creating successful "processes."

In other words, they harp on things like the faster 40 yd. dash and the bigger vertical leap without teaching their players proper mechanics and strength-building techniques.

Think about it. If you devote traіning time developing great takeoff and landing mechanics for jumping, and combine that with functional strength development, doesn't it seem to follow that the athlete's "vertical" would inevitably increase? Of course it does!

Just like the combination of teaching great sprint technique, dynamic flexibility and functional strength will dramatically increase speed in all directions!

The trouble is, this kind of long-lasting, highly available athletic skill-set development can't be accomplished in a "6 weeks to 6 inches, etc." miracle program.

It comes from consistent, longer term traіning systems and good habits on the part of athletes and kids.

This is especially important for younger athletes and children. Between ages 8 and 13, it's a great time forus to help them develop proper functional movement patterns.

For many kids, this means getting them up and moving, period. Programs focusing on functional movement, that deliver fun and variety, will always outperform set and rep based programs for this age group.

Developing great movement patterns at an early age allows us to reinforce them, load them and make our kids stronger, faster, more agile, healthier and more resistant to іnjury!

The best part of this process is that the improved performance athletes get from a consistent, intelligent, "process" based traіning program will stick with them and help them in all their athletic endeavors.

Long after the "6 week miracle traіning program" and it's temporary nonsense has disappeared, like a tax cut promise in a political campaign, gains made through the development of good habits and consistent effort (in other words, a quality "process") will still be serving the athlete well.

More importantly, because of the good habits developed, the athlete will continue to get stronger, faster, more agile and more іnjury resistant.

The "6 week miracle" athlete will be steadily losing the"edge" they gained, and slipping into the "іnjury zone."

Here's a few well known examples of athletes who've benefited from a long-term athletic development program:

Michael Phelps won 8 golds at the Beijing Olympics. (Embarassing photos and acts aside)
The US Womens Soccer Team beat Brazil for Gold.
The US Men and Women took home Volleyball Gold.
The US swept the 400m.

It wasn't the "6 week miracle traіning program" that got them there.

Can you guess how they got their medals?

Think it might have been through a quality traіning "process?"

Can you guess what kind of programs we use at All-Star Sports Academy?

I'll give you a hint: 6 weeks is just about a good start.

Questions? Comments? Feel free to let me know!

Phil

Congressional knuckleheads introduce bill to "solve" a problem they helped create

2011-03-18T14:39:00.001-04:00

So according to the news, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Representative Ron Kind (D-WI) have introduced a bill to re-establish Physical Education in schools. Read about it here: http://www.mdnews.com/news/2011_03/rep-kind-senator-harkin-reintrod...

These 2 geniuses think that by "mandating" that "all school districts and states to report on students’ physical activity, including the amount of time spent in required physical education in relation to the recommended national standard," somehow that will solve the childhood obesity epidemic.

Silly congressmonkeys, passing bills isn't really "working" on the problem!

Hilarious. Seriously, these 2 guys are supported by educational reformers who have consistently worked to install useless "educational reforms" so our kids have to study everything from "cultural awareness" to "anti-bullying sensitivity" (actual school course/program titles.)

Teachers and administrators have challenging jobs that get tougher every time one of these ridiculous "Advancements" gets shoved down their throats.

The important point here: Congress has been a large part of the problem in the development of childhood obesity and the move towards fatter, unhealthier kids (and adults) in this country.

Senator Harkin has taken well over $5.5 million dollars in reported campaign contributions from organizations and individuals related to the agriculture, pharmaceutical, hospital and "food manufacturing" industries (i.e., companies who make all the fat and sugar laden "food" that makes our kids fat. Harkin has supported corn growers in congress, as well as companies making high-fructose corn syrup, a major factor in the fattening of America's kids!Harkin now blames our educational system for the rise in childhood obesity. Um, yeah...

Mr. Kind is no better. Congressman Kind took well over $1 million from agribusiness and health/hospital related organizations and individuals. Wisconsin is well known for it's dairy products. So while he protects his constituency by representing their interests in congress, he now turns around and blames a lack of P.E. in schools for the epidemic of childhood obesity in America! Okey dokey, Ronnie...

Look, corn is fine. Cheese and dairy have their place in normal nutritional plans.

On the other hand, Congress has no place telling parents and kids how and when they should exercise and then mandating others to pay for it.

Here's a thought: let's encourage these congressmonkeys to stop their constant meddling in education, fitness and nutrition.

Let's try this:

Let's return to a scholastic concentration on the basics - math, english, sciences, literature, history...and phys ed.
Let's focus on the safety and security of our towns and neighborhoods so kids can get out and play.
Let's work together to create and support true "rec" sports programs.
Let's encourage kids to turn off the electronics (as I write on my laptop...irony!) and go engage in physical play.

Let them play tag. Let them play kickball. Heck, let them play dodgeball! We do, and they love it!

All-Star Sports Academy is here to support a return to physical play. Ask us how we can help YOUR kids return to a "physical culture" and feel, look and DO better!

We've been helping parents motivate their children to love exercise and fitness since March 2008 and we have no intention of letting up now!

Call us today and come on over and play!

Phil Hueston, NASM-PES, IYCA-YFS
All-Star Sports Academy

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/

"Welcome to the Athlete Underground!"

Is Cheerleading the Most Hazardous of All Sports?

2011-03-17T14:45:00.000-04:00

While reading up on the whole "Is cheerleading a sport?" debate, I came across a few interesting factoids that seem to be overlooked. (Btw, cheer IS a sport - you train to create precise "plays" and you get scored on it...'nuff said)

According to this article http://www.nationalcheersafety.com/cheerisasport.pdf, "71% of catastrophically injured female college athletes are cheerleaders" - Mueller F. O., Cantu R. C. Twenty-Sixth Annual Report for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research. Fall 1982–Spring 2008. Chapel Hill, NC: National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research; 2008.

Ankle, knee, shoulder and back injuries make up approximately 50% of all injuries to cheerleaders. (Several sources, including the American Association of Pediatrics and the National CheerSafety Foundation.

Unfortunately, head and neck trauma and spinal injuries from falls make up a significant portion of the remaining 50%.

The good news here? The ankle, knee, shoulder and back injuries that occur most frequently in cheer are eminently preventable with the proper kinds of strength, power, flexibility and core training!

When you employ the concepts and techniques of integrated sports fitness to the cheerleader's body and sports performance, joint stabilization and overall strength is greatly enhanced and cheer skills get sharper. The net result is the virtual elimination of non-contact joint injuries!

That's great news for cheerleaders AND those who love and support them!

Want to know more about how to cheer better and with fewer injuries? Contact me or give All-Star Sports Academy a call at 732-597-3725 and we'll be happy to help.Cheer on - injury free!

Phil Hueston, NASM-PES, IYCA-YFS
All-Star Sports Academy

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

"Welcome to the Athlete Underground!"

Can you do this? KB SB Crunch Press

2011-03-15T16:30:00.000-04:00

Here's a great core strength and stabilization exercise.

Lumbar spine stability during upper extremtiy extension and pushing movements is critical to both power production and injury prevention.

The ability to recruit the deep abdominal stabilizers during functional movement also aids in throwing movements and is critical to speed, agility and quickness for athletes.

If you're a football player or other iron athlete, we'll show you how this can help you get a bigger bench!

See you in the Athlete Underground!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

2011-03-14T15:05:00.000-04:00

Can YOU do THIS?

The SAQ Ladder Crossover Shuffle helps athletes develop the ability to change direction quickly, particularly in situations requiring the athlete to step across his/her body.

It also assists in the development of good ankle mobility, knee stability and the stability of the lumbar spine during counter-rot......ational athletic movements.

Ready to be a better athlete? Tired of looking up the depth chart and wondering when you'll "get your shot?" Ready to get noticed by coaches, recruiters and scouts?

Get into the Athlete Underground and raise your game!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

SL Squat and Roll

2011-03-11T12:45:00.000-05:00

Can YOU do THIS?

Deceleration skills and the ability to effectively break falls is essential to preventing injuries for athletes.

Here's a great core exercise that emphasizes glute strength/stability and both deceleration skills and ability to break your fall.

If you can't do this at least this well, we'll help!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Goings-on April 26, 2010

2010-04-27T21:00:00.004-04:00

More fun and work(??) at All-Star Sports Academy!

Want to be a better athlete? Get some here!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Become a "fan" on Facebook: http://budurl.com/allstarfacebook

Quick look April 22-23

2010-04-23T16:29:00.003-04:00

Here's a quick look at the goings-on here from yesterday and today!

Get some!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

DODGEBALL!! Again!

2010-04-22T06:39:00.004-04:00

For all of you who love to play Dodgeball with us and have been asking "when is the next tournament?" here's your answer!!

DODGEBALL!! Saturday, May 8, 2010 at All-Star Sports Academy in Toms River!

Get your 'ballers together, get the sweet uniforms ready and get registered NOW!

At 6:30 PM the madness begins!!

This is 6 v 6 Dodgeball, with a maximum of 8 players per team!

Only $75 per TEAM!

Kids, adults, even granny can play...

Check it out on Facebook: http://budurl.com/hurricanedodgeball

Contact us and we'll email the registration form to you!

We'll see YOU at the Athlete Underground for Dodgeball!

A look at April 21 at All-Star

2010-04-21T11:51:00.000-04:00

A quick look at some of todays workouts!

Enjoy!

Become a "fan" http://budurl.com/allstarfacebook

Dave Mitchell Memorial Dodgeball Tournament

2010-04-20T15:02:00.006-04:00

Here's a little video from Sunday's Dave Mitchell Dodgeball Tournament this past Sunday, April 18.

Thanks to everyone who participated we raised over $1,800!!

See if there's someone you know in this little bit of video wonderfulness!

Next Dodgeball Tournament: Saturday evening, May 8!! Watch for details!!

Join us on facebook: http://budurl.com/allstarfacebook

Visit the website at http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Frankie Edgar – The Champ is Here

2010-04-13T19:47:00.001-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO FRANK EDGAR!! All-Star Sports Academy has a champion in the UFC!!

By Thomas Gerbasi

Frankie Edgar had been here before - on the wrestling mats for Toms River High School East and Clarion University, and now, thousands of miles away in Abu Dhabi.

He had just given everything he had in 25 minutes against the best lightweight fighter ever, BJ Penn, and now he just had to wait for Octagon announcer Bruce Buffer to render a decision that would determine whether he would have to settle for second as he did in high school and college, or if he would finally have the spotlight all to himself at the top.

50-45 was the first score, one met with oohs and aahs from Yas Island to Hilo and the Jersey shore, mainly because in a fight as close as this one was, it was shocking that someone saw it as a shutout

“I talked to my friends back home, and they thought I was getting screwed when they heard that one,” laughed Edgar. “But when I heard it, I just tried staying positive, and that was the best thing I had done through this whole camp. I thought, ‘That’s gotta be me, I know I won a bunch of rounds.’”

Score number two - 48-47.

“In wrestling in (high school) States, my biggest goal was to win a State title, I took second,” recalled Edgar. “Winning a national title in high school, I took second; to become an All-American, I lost in triple overtime in the All-American round.”

Score number three 49-46.

“For the winner,” bellowed Buffer, “annnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnd NEW!!!!”

For Frankie Edgar, UFC lightweight champion of the world, everything went blank.

“I’ve been there so many times that this was just unbelievable – I didn’t know how to feel,” he said. “I had been there so many times and disappointed so many times.”

Not this time, and while Edgar’s win over Penn was rightfully seen as an upset considering ‘The Prodigy’s dominance over the division since 2008, it came as no surprise to Team Edgar, who approached the entire fight and the training camp leading up to it with a calm that made it look like Edgar had been in 10 championship fights before. Forget having a deer in the headlights look due to fighting a future Hall of Famer or being overwhelmed by the UFC 112 media crush. Edgar was unmoved by any of it, even getting in a pre-fight snooze before the biggest bout of his career.

“I just believed in my preparation,” he said. “Every fight I get more and more comfortable – the week leading up to it, the night before, the day of. I took the best nap ever the day of the fight. (Laughs) I slept two hours straight and I could have slept more. Usually your heart’s racing, thinking about the fight, but I was calm, and I knew I had done everything I could do to win the fight, so there was no reason to add extra stress to the whole thing. Obviously, I was still nervous and still afraid to lose, but I was really confident.”

That confidence showed in the fight, as Edgar utilized a stick and move strategy that kept Penn off balance all night. Penn was not blown out of the fight by any means, as he landed hard counters when the two traded on the inside, but it was Edgar who dictated the pace and location of the fight, even scoring two quick takedowns for good measure. What may have been the most impressive aspect of the fight for Edgar though, wasn’t his discipline and strategy, but his stamina, as he kept the pace of the fight high for 25 minutes. Not surprisingly, the humble champion deflects the praise and directs it to his team.

“My intensity’s always the same,” he said. “I try to go full blow every time I do a strength and conditioning workout as far as intensity, but I definitely added some more rounds on (in this camp). I worked with Brian Blue out of All Star Sports Academy in Toms River, and he’s a young kid, has got an open mind, and he comes to me with new stuff. I’ve been working out with him for over a year and a half now and I don’t think I’ve done the same workout twice. So it was that, and my boxing coach Mark Henry is just on me. He doesn’t just hold pads in front of you like a lot of guys do – he moves with you and works out with us. He makes you move constantly while doing pads, and I think that’s the trick. You’ve got to train the way you want to fight.”

And Edgar did everything he wanted to last Saturday.

“You can’t go into a fight with BJ Penn and say you’re gonna stop him because you’ll totally mess yourself up mentally,” he said. “So I went into that fight knowing that I’m gonna have to fight five hard rounds, stay active, and execute my gameplan. But I’m very critical of myself and I definitely saw some things that I need to sharpen up, and that just shows me that I’ve got room to grow, and I’m happy about that.”

Continually elevating his game has been Edgar’s MO throughout his UFC career. He came into the UFC in 2007 as a scrappy wrestler with a lot of heart. By the time his 2009 bout with Sean Sherk arrived, he had developed a refined standup game that opened plenty of eyes around the MMA world. And as far as he’s concerned, the victory over Sherk was the one that gave him the confidence to rely on his standup strategy-wise for the Penn fight.

“It’s just a natural progression of everything,” he said. “By no means did it just come overnight. Every fight, even before I was in the UFC, I was willing to throw my hands, so I think I had that naturally on my side. But I think it was the Sherk fight, where I knew that a takedown wasn’t gonna come easy, so I knew I had to rely on my boxing. And that really gave me the confidence that I could do it at anytime.”

And today, he’s a world champion, with all the perks and perils that come with it. On the plus side, he’s the talk of the fight game, and he’s got a nice shiny belt on his couch that he promises he won’t be wearing around the shore this summer. “The win means much more than the belt to me,” he smiles. “The belt will be for my kids when I’m old.” But on the other side, despite being the king overlooking his kingdom of contenders…

“Heavy lies the crown,” he interjects with a chuckle. “I just got a nice bull’s eye painted on my chest.”

“But I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.”

You know he wouldn’t, but there is a growing list of contenders lining up for the next shot at the belt, one of main responsibilities of being the man at the top.

“Right now, I’m not even thinking about it to be honest with you,” he said when asked about what’s next and his thoughts on possible challengers like Gray Maynard and Kenny Florian. “I’m sure my coaches are, though. (Laughs) Both of those guys are well deserving – Florian just runs through people, and Maynard, he beat me last and it was my only loss. So obviously those two guys are deserving. Even BJ is deserving for a rematch – he’s a legend. So whoever the UFC decides, I’ll start training for.”

But for now, it’s time for Frankie Edgar to sit back, relax, and enjoy being number one.

Peanut Butter Banana Breakfast Shake (Easy Recipe)

2010-03-31T17:46:00.003-04:00

If you like easy...

If you like chocolate...

If you like peanut butter...

If you like bananas...

Well, then this latest creation from my partners over at Prograde Nutrition is right up your alley.

Check it out here ==> http://allstarsportsacademy.getprograde.com/power-packed-breakfast-shake.html

See you in the Athlete Underground!
Become a fan on Facebook: http:budurl.com/allstarfacebook

Visit the website: http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

TRHC Bantam B team Wins Districts!

2010-03-29T15:31:00.003-04:00

For the record, the Toms River Hockey Club Bantam B team earned every inch of this championship banner!

They worked as hard or harder than any team we've ever had the pleasure of working with!

They grew as players, people and as a team and their 2010 AAHA District Championship is proof that doing the right things will make the right things happen!

Way to go, boys!

So when will YOU get to the Athlete Underground?

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Weird foods with great nutritional power!

2010-03-26T14:59:00.000-04:00

It's still March, so it's still National Nutrition Month. Here are a couple more killer articles from my partners over at Prograde Nutrition to enlighten you.

This first article will knock your socks off. I mean, really, who knew that coffee beans were so much more than, well, coffee? http://budurl.com/coffeebeans

Next, you'll be stunned by how powerful Brussel Sprouts are. And Barley Grass, too. Bet you thought Barley was just for beer, right? ;-) http://budurl.com/fruitveggiemagic

I'll be back soon with more awesome health, fitness and nutrition info!

Yours in health,
Phil & the crew at All-Star

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Protein Packed Iced Rasberry Mocha

2010-03-25T20:54:00.001-04:00

Hey everybody!

Drinking those grande coffee drinks with whipped cream and sugar...well, they really aren't a good idea. Seriously, they pack about a zillion calories that don't do much for you - except pack on the belly flab.

But what if those drinks were nutritious? What if they were chock full of metabolism boosting protein?

Well, my partners over at Prograde just released this killer new Protein Packed Iced Rasberry Mocha recipe that you're going to love.

I'm not kidding, your taste buds won't believe this one! Check it out at: http://allstarsportsacademt.getprograde.com/iced-raspberry-mocha.html

Yours in health,
Phil

PS - And remember, Prograde is having a birthday party this week and celebrating with 15% off all their awesome products! http://allstarsportsacademy.getprograde.com/specials

Put 4 Inches on your vertical in 40 seconds!

2010-03-24T19:31:00.002-04:00

Here's All-Star Sports Academy's breakthrough vertical leap program:

PUT 4 INCHES ON YOUR VERTICAL IN ONLY 40 SECONDS!

Check out this video for more details:

Then check out the website at http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com!

See you in the Athlete Underground!!

Blood, Sweat and Cheers

2009-05-27T16:48:00.003-04:00

It's been a remarkable spring for All-Star Sports Academy and our athletes and clients. These achievements are remarkable, and a testament to the commitment of these student-athletes. One All-Star athlete just rocked the sports world on national television!

One of our athletes scored over 100 points as a sophomore for TRHS South girls' lacrosse

Another scored 112 points for TRHS North's girls lacrosse team.

Both of these lacrosse players were chosen to represent New Jersey on the 2009 National Women's Lacrosse team

Still another won a womens Lacrosse National Championship with Franklin & Marshall College

One hit well over .500 for Donovan baseball.

One is on the verge of signing a National Football League contract to play fullback.

One was named to the All-State HS Hockey team & signed to play Juniors Hockey with the Philadelphia Revolution.

One was chosen to the NJSA 04 Pre-Academy Soccer Team & is working with Tab Ramos.

One was chosen to the U14 New Jersey Olympic Development Program Soccer Team

One terrorized high school pitchers while playing for TRHS North baseball

One made the JV softball team & became the starting JV catcher at TRHS East

The Jersey Shore Hurricanes AAU boys basketball put a team into nationals

One has been invited to Under Armour HS football combines, & may be named to the All-America team

One took 2nd in the county in shotput for 8th graders & was named to the Trilogy Lacrosse Elite team

One broke the TR Intermediate South school record in the discus

Woodbridge HS baseball went 14-10 & reached the semi-finals of the Middlesex County Tournament

Dozens of youth baseball, softball, lacrosse and soccer players are having great seasons & more fun as a result of their experiences with All-Star Sports Academy.

Dozenz of kids and parents dropped extra pounds, got in shape and had a blast in our breakthrough fitness programs.

Oh yeah, there's one other athletic achievement that we're pretty excited about. On Saturday, May 23rd, Frank Edgar, former Toms River HS East and Clarion University wrestling standout, won the biggest bout of his career. In an edge-of-your-seat 3 round UFC fight against Sean Sherk, Frank ("The Answer") took another step toward a title bout by dominating Sherk in every aspect of the game!

Frank has been working harder than ever in our Strength and Conditioning Center with Brian Blue getting ready for this bout. After watching video of his workouts with previous trainers, then watching how his opponent was "training," we had a funny feeling that Frank was going to be ready for Sherk. We were right!

Congratulations to Frank, and congratulations to all the athletes, parents and everyone who has been working to achieve fitness goals that matter to them!

Find out why they chose All-Star, and why it really does matter where you "get your sweat on!"

Go here to request YOUR complimentary trial membership: http://tinyurl.com/allstartrial

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Metabolism and Making it Work For Athletes

2009-05-18T04:59:00.003-04:00

Here's a concept that you must understand. You need to understand that improving your eating habits and improving your performance are related. It all depends on how you fuel your body. The fuel you put in your body will determine how your metabolism works and how much energy you have for athletic performance!

YOU CAN MAKE YOUR METABOLISM WORK FOR YOU, INSTEAD OF AGAINST YOU!

Let’s use a simplified definition of metabolism. Metabolism means the rate at which your body burns through food. Simple enough, right? Most athletes have fast metabolisms (which allow them to burn lots calories). As a result, it is important that you fuel your body with food frequently throughout the day.

I’ll say it again: Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day will keep your metabolism fired up, and keep you ready to perform at your best. “Getting” this will mean the difference between performing at a high level on a consistent basis and performing in fits and starts! “Getting” this will allow you to “get it done” any time you want!

To play well and stay in top shape, you are going to eat 5 meals a day. In fact, you’re going to eat at least 5 meals a day if you want to practice and play at your best! It might not completely make sense to you yet, but as you begin to understand metabolism, and as you begin getting the results that you want, your comfort level with eating this many meals will increase.

I’ll explain further as we go along, but for now, “get” that you need to eat supportively and every 3 to 3 ½ hours. “Supportive eating” means making sure that each meal consists of a lean protein, a starchy carbohydrate and a fibrous carbohydrate. No pre-processed “diet food” made of make believe ingredients and “pseudo-foods!”

Here’s a short list of proteins, starchy carbs and fibrous carbs to get you started:
Lean Protein: tuna in water, egg whites, chicken breast, fat free dairy, flaky fish, tofu
Starchy Carbohydrates: potato, sweet potato, tomato, whole grains, oatmeal
Fibrous Carbohydrates: broccoli, cauliflower, onion, celery, peppers, cucumber, greens

I’m going to make a bold, borderline sacrilegious statement here: You don’t need “diets” to fuel your body for top-level athletic performance! Nor will you have to eat massive protein bars or gallons of protein shakes. This is all bad information that you have been given. All that will do is stress your kidneys and liver and make you feel sick.

Top performing athletes know that food is a tool to be used to hone the athletic body to a sharp-edged weapon! Along with intelligent, challenging athletic and skills training, it’s the thing that will separate winners from wanna-bes!

So start planning your food intake to support your success! We’ll be glad to help!

Contact All-Star Sports Academy for your free one week trial in any of our strength and conditioning programs!

There's a DRAGON in the house!

2009-05-04T19:08:00.001-04:00

There's a "Dragon" at All-Star Sports Academy!

Not the ugly, scaly kind that terrorized towns in jolly old England!

This Dragon can help you earn a Black Belt and get a great workout
at the same time!

Dianna LaVecchia has brought Dragon Muay Thai to All-Star Sports
Academy's Softball/Baseball Center at 2214 Rt. 37 E, Toms River.

Now, Dianna is inviting you to an Open House to celebrate the opening
of her school!

Learn about Muay Thai, Jeet Kune Do and how YOU can become a Black Belt!

Enjoy great Thai food and watch demonstrations. Maybe even participate! Come on,
don't be scared!

For all the information on this fun-filled event, go to http://www.muaythaifit.com/index.htm

Click on the "NEWS!" link.

When you get to the open house, tell Dianna that Phil, Brian and Sean sent you!

PS...Don't forget!! You can get a one week trial in any of our programs simply by going to
All-Star Sports Academy Trial Membership

If you haven't tried Prograde Nutrition Cravers, then your nutrition bars taste like cardboard!

Find out why our clients L-O-V-E their Cravers!!

Beat Swine Flu...

2009-04-27T18:27:00.005-04:00

The newsmedia is full of breathless, panic-stricken reports about Swine Flu. They throw around words like "pandemic," Recombinant" and "transspecies."

What does it all mean? Is this bio-terror, or just an anomaly? I even read a story linking a reduction in solar flares and solar wind to the rise of new strains of flu and maybe other diseases.

Wow. Makes you want to stay home, wrap yourself in a blanket and hide!

So what to do? It's fairly simple, really.

First, DON'T PANIC! If you've ever read Douglas Adams' "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" you already get this sage advice. Read through the news hype. Swine flu is NOT prowling your neighborhood streets, looking for a random sucker to infect.

Most likely, it's being spread through direct contact with those within the "hot period," or in the case of this bug, 24-72 hours after infection. So unless you're spending time in Mexico City, airports or places where we KNOW THERE IS AN OUTBREAK, you are probably not at risk yet.

So...now is the time to gather information about this and other flu viruses. Knowledge is power.

Second, Wash your hands! Yeah, your mom is right. Clean hands (and other skin surfaces) help prevent not only infection in you, but in others as well. Do you need anti-bacterial gels and soap. Um, think for a minute...influenza is a VIRUS...so anti-bacterial soaps, gels, etc. probably won't help.

Third, Flush the air at home! Open windows on breezy days when it's warm enough. Keeping the house closed up, whether you're heating or cooling, is like inviting the virus in. Let the fresh air in, let the sun in, you and your house will feel better.

Fourth, Eat to be immune!Include lots of fresh veggies and fruits in your diet. One precaution...since much of our produce comes from California and Mexico (Swine Flu hotspots), wash your produce well!

Fifth, Get some sleep! The body repairs itself and resets the defenses during sleep periods. Get 8-10 hours a night, and maybe grab a nap daily.

Sixth, VITAMINS AND MINERALS! I cannot stress this enough. EVERYONE needs a good multivitamin/mineral complex! Stop buying Centrum, OneADay or whatever other $15 crap you're throwing your money away on and go get some Prograde VGF+ For Men or Prograde VGF+ for Women! The reality is that if you're not spending about $35-$50 a month for your multi, you're probably getting crap.

In addition, it helps to add supplemental Vitamin C to your regimen. In spite of the scare tactics often employed by the medical community to stop people from using this natural immune booster for that purpose, Vitamin C really does boost immune response in humans. 1,000 - 3,000 mg/day will help, more is ok if your system can handle it.

Seventh, and last...No rubbing snouts or smooching with pigs or birds or people who sound like they're hacking up a lung! Enough said!
_________________________________________________________________

Quinoa and Fresh Herb Salad With Garden Tomatoes

Makes 2 servings, with leftover quinoa Description

Quinoa is a high-fiber grain that's loaded with protein and readily available in groceries or health food stores. Need a convenient grain? Try this one: it cooks in 6 minutes! Here’s a version of the delicious Middle Eastern salad, tabbouleh, with quinoa instead of bulgur.

Ingredients
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup quinoa
Salt and pepper
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3 scallions (white and light-green parts), thinly sliced
1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
3 tablespoons lightly packed fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
3 large beefsteak tomatoes, preferably a mixture of red and yellow
2 ounces low-fat feta cheese

Instructions
Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan, over high heat. Add quinoa and a pinch of salt; bring back to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer about 6 minutes, until nearly all the water is absorbed and quinoa is tender and chewy but not soft.

While quinoa is cooking, combine juice, oil, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Fold in quinoa, scallions, cucumber, and herbs. Toss until thoroughly coated. Season to taste as desired.

Thinly slice tomatoes. Arrange on serving plates. Spoon about 1 cup quinoa over tomatoes. Crumble feta on top. Serve immediately.

Nutritional information
350 calories
14 g total fat (4 g sat)
10 mg cholesterol
47 g carbohydrate
15 g protein
7 g fiber
410 mg sodium

Friday Round Up

2009-04-24T13:58:00.004-04:00

Well, we approach the end of another exciting week here at All-Star Sports Academy.

When Monday rolls around, one of our athletes, Charlie Henry, formerly of Toms River North High School, Monmouth University and Susquehanna University (Phil's Alma Mater!) will very likely be a National Football League Fullback!

Here's just a taste of what Charlie said about what All-Star Sports Academy did for him:
"I have done many workouts where players say 'why am I doing this? I'll never do this on the field!' Every exercise we do is relevant to my sport, and even my position. I feel I could not have had an equal experience with any other sports facility in New Jersey!"

Wow! Thanks, Charlie! Watch this blog on Monday or Tuesday. We're all pulling for Charlie, and the early word is he'll be in a Cleveland Browns or Dallas Cowboys uniform this season!

Also in the All-Star news: The Answer calls All-Star Sports Academy his training home!

Frank "The Answer" Edgar, a Toms River resident and up-and-coming mixed martial arts competitor is preparing for what many are calling the fight of his career!

So, where does a tough UFC guy like Frank go for his conditioning training? All-Star Sports Academy, that's where!

On May 23, you can catch Frank's big fight against Sean Sherk on pay-per-view live from Vegas.

Between now and then, he'll be working hard at All-Star! Video coming soon...

Let's see, the best athletes at the Jersey Shore call All-Star their training home. NFL prospects tell us they couldn't have it better anywhere else. A professional mixed martial artist chooses us to get him ready for the fight of his career.

What's YOUR reason for not being here again?

We'll make it really simple for you.
Go to http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/free-trial-membership

Apply for a trial membership. In the "Comments" section, write "Charlie and Frank sent me!"

We'll DOUBLE YOUR TRIAL PERIOD! That's 2 weeks of no-cost, no-obligation sports fitness preparation on All-Star Sports Academy!

First Step to a Faster 40

2009-04-23T13:16:00.001-04:00

Last week, we covered how important your first step is in any sport. This week we'll be going a little further with that subject because of a question I hear every day from athletes (usually football players), "How can I run a faster 40". My answer, your starting position and first step.

This is the area in which even very fast athletes lose the most time. It is also the easiest area to fix because it is usually just a technical error rather than the lack of any physical attributes.

Although I don't think the 40 yard dash is really that important for an athlete's on-field performance, coaches love it and they want their players to have certain numbers. Today I will give you some tips on how to lower your time and catch those coaches' eyes so you can show off your real ability in all of the other areas that really matter.

Know the test. Just like any other test you've ever had, it is important to know what you're being tested on. You wouldn't work on calculus to ace your history final, would you? In the case of the 40 yard dash, you must realize that this test does not test your overall/top speed. Since most athletes do not reach their top speed until 50-60 yards into a sprint, this test is really about acceleration. How quickly you can get your body in motion and continue to gain speed. In order to do this, the next tip is very important.
Find your ideal starting position. Every athlete's starting position will be slightly different depending on flexibility, height, strength, and comfort. The important thing to do is to find the position that you feel comfortable with that still follows the guidelines of a good start position.

Dominant foot back
Hips above shoulders.
Angle from knee to ankle is pointing down and back (both legs).
Pressure through both feet.
Hand cocked back behind hip.

Each athlete can tweak their position in order to be comfortable as long as those guidelines are still met. For example, Reggie Bush liked to start with his feet back about 6 inches further than most athletes have been taught. This allowed his legs (knee to ankle) to be at a 45 degree angle to the ground. This smaller angle lets him push out rather than up with his first step so he is able to stay lower and distribute as much force as possible in the desired direction. Many athletes have started to shift closer to this type of start for that reason.

Here is how Reggie sets up for his 40. I've found that it works really well because it is comfortable and it forces the athlete to stay low rather than popping up too quick. Try it out:

Set your non-dominant foot about 12 inches away from the line.
Line up the toes of your dominant (back) foot with the heel of your front foot.
Slide the back foot 8-12 inches away from the front foot.
Adjust each foot in order to put pressure through both feet.
Reach both hands about 2 feet in front of the starting line without moving your feet. Walk your hands back until the dominant hand is at the line and both legs are loaded.
Keep head and eyes down.
Cock opposite hand back.
Inhale before start.
Run 40 yards in 4.2 seconds (ok, maybe not)

First and 10. These are the most important steps, your first step and first 10 yards. Aim your first step to be 1 yard out. Drive out of the start and keep your eyes focused at the 10 yard line. Think about being full stride in 2 to 3 steps. Practice the first 10 yards until you're comfortable with your starting position and your first few steps.

Always get faster. Continue to try to accelerate through the finish line. Run a 60 yard dash instead of a 40 yard dash. Remember, you won't reach your top speed until after 40 yards so you want to feel like you're still getting faster and faster with every step.

These tips can HELP lower your time, but they are just one piece of the puzzle. They will NOT make you a better athlete. Sports are played in multiple directions and require you to accelerate, decelerate, change direction and change speed. Having a faster 40 may get a coaches attention, but improving all aspects of your performance will get you that spot on the roster.

Contact us here for a free trial week with All-Star Sports Academy: http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/free-trial-membership

Speed, Power and Endurance...gotta have 'em!

2009-04-22T14:55:00.007-04:00

Circuit Training is a perfect training method for short-duration strength/speed/power endurance.

Ice hockey, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, tennis, volleyball and even football and basketball consist of repeated short bursts of high intensity work.

They also require high levels of dynamic stability, and the ability to change direction quickly and efficiently. Lacking this ability is a prescription for injury.

Circuit training, with stations lasting 30-90 seconds, is a great way to develop the kind of speed, power and strength required for successful sports performance.

How many exercises you include can vary.

If possible, try to include some "mirror" exercises. These are exercises that mimic movements typically performed in the sport for which you are preparing.

Circuit Training Guidelines - Short-duration strength/speed/power endurance
Load: 50 - 65% of theoretical 1 RM (this is less critical than most people - and trainers - think)
Number of Exercises: in each circuit 6-15 (for variety, use different variations each circuit)
Time per station: 30-90 seconds
Number of circuits per session: 2-5
Rest between stations: 10-90 seconds
Rest between circuits: 90 seconds - 3 minutes
Speed of movement: Moderate to as fast as proper form allows
Frequency: 2 - (max.) 3 times/week

Click here for your Free One Week Trial at All-Star Sports Academy!

Joint by Joint

2009-04-21T03:05:00.004-04:00

That's the way.

The way to approach a solid warm-up.

Ankles, knees, hips, lumbar spine, thoracic spine (upper back & neck) and shoulders.

These are the areas that should be addressed in every warm-up. But it's not enough to just "get them moving," as we hear so many coaches say at practices.

Each joint has different needs in warm-ups. Ankles, hips and thoracic spine need to be mobilized, while the knees, lumbar spine and shoulders need to be stabilized.

In full truth, shoulders need mobility as well, but never without stability!

Here's a simple, joint by joint warm-up progression you can do anywhere:
1. Ankles (mobility) - Stand facing a wall, hands on it at chest height. Slide one foot back, keeping the heel down. Bend the rear knee so it moves toward the wall until it feels "stuck." Then rock it back and forth without allowing the heel to come off the floor. Push just a little past the sticking point each time. Do 10-20 reps on each side.

2. Hip Mobility (Knee stability) - Stand square, with the feet under the hips. Take a short step to one side, making sure the hip moves out over the heel/knee as you do. Squat about 1/4 of the way down, then push through the heel coming up. Reset and go the other way. Do 12 in each direction. Hip Circles - Stand near a wall. Lift one knee up to belt height. Move it out to the side, without turning the body. Making a circle, return it to the front without putting the foot down. Repeat 10 times on each leg. Put hands on the wall for balance if needed.

3. Lumbar Spine (Stability) - Do not do rotational stretches for the lower back! They destabilize the spine, creating MORE tightness and pain, not less. Try single leg floor bridges for lumbar spinal stability: Lie on the floor with your knees bent and your bellybutton tucked in. Press your low back to the floor. Cross one ankle over the other knee. Press the other heel into the floor, squeeze the glute and slowly lift yourself off the floor. Keep the low back flat and the abs drawn. Repeat 6-8 times on each side. If you have trouble with this on one leg, put your hands on the floor for stability, or do them on 2 legs.

4. Thoracic Spine (mobility) - Poor mobility in the upper spine will lead to pain in the neck and reduced shoulder and neck mobility. Use a high density foam roller between the shoulder blades, with the hands interlocked behind the head. This will open the scapula and allow access to the T-spine. 30-60 seconds each for 2 reps.

Order Your Own

High Density (Black) Foam Roller Here

5. Shoulders (stability) - Wall slides work very well for the complex relationship between the gleno-humeral joint and the scapula. Stand with your back to a wall. Flatten and retract the shoulder blades, and lift the arms so the elbows are at your side, with the arm flat against the wall. Slide the arms up, without losing contact with the wall, while keeping the shoulder blades retracted and against the wall. Use the fullest possible range of motion you can without losing wall contact with the forearms and scapula. Don't be surprised if you can't do it at first, or you cramp up trying. Do 8-10 reps.

Using a joint by joint approach to warming up will assure that your system is ready for whatever you throw at it. Treat your joints right and they will respond by increasing athletic performance and letting you improve faster than ever before!

If you're interested in learning more about amazing athletic performance, contact us for a complimentary one week trial in any of our breakthrough programs!

Click here: All-Star Sports Academy One Week Trial!

Coach off the excess weight

2009-04-20T05:06:00.000-04:00

Researchers at Duke University Medical School have "discovered" something our clients have known for years.

Their research reinforces our belief that working with a professional to lose body fat, change your body shape and develop healthy habits results in better, well, better results!!

They studied people who lost at least 8.8 lbs over a six month weight-loss phase. Lo and behold, the group that worked with a fitness/diet professional kept off more of the unwanted weight than any other group!

Frankly, we're not surprised! Our clients tell us that it's easier to keep off unwanted pounds when you have someone who cares about your results guiding and helping you to your goals.

THAT is the essence of why our programs work. We care about your results, and the programs are easy to follow and FUN!

Speaking of fun and effective body transformation programs, have you registered for the amazing
Get a Swimsuit Ready Body by July 4th! kickoff session yet?

What are you waiting for?

For a teeny tiny $10 registration fee, you'll walk away with over $75 in bonuses (we just added "A Woman's Fat Loss Strategy", a 10 step eating, diet and lifestyle guide to the body you want. It's a $20 value, and it's included as a bonus for registering for the May 1st, 7:30 PM Kickoff Session!)

May 1st, 7:30 PM at our Strength & Conditioning Center at 1856 Route 9, Toms River

$10 registration for the kickoff, and we promise some awesome stuff that night!

Over $75 worth of bonuses just for registering and taking the first step!

See you there, and then we'll see YOU showing off this summer!

_________________________________________________________________
A quick and very useful recipe today:

Better Butter!
This is the best butter replacement we’ve ever found. It requires you to do a little work, but the rewards in taste and good health are well worth it!

Ingredients
2 cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 cups softened organic (salted or unsalted) butter

Preparation
Place the ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Using a power beater, slowly blend the olive oil and butter together.

Blend until the mixture is smooth.

Transfer contents of bowl into several table serving-size containers.

Place in refrigerator until firm like butter.

Use it just like butter, as well as for cooking lubrication and as a substitute for olive oil in cooking meats and vegetables, if desired.

Nutrition Info (approx. for 1 Tbsp
Calories ---- 110
Fat Calories ---- 110
Total Fat ---- 12.5 grams
Saturated Fat ---- 4.5 grams
Monounsaturated Fat ----- 5.5 grams
Polyunsaturated Fat ----- .75 grams

What a Week!

2009-04-18T16:46:00.001-04:00

WOW!

It was a big week for All-Star Sports Academy athletes!

>> Dave DalCortivo signed to play Juniors Hockey with the Philadelphia Revolution!

>> Meredith Kalinowski leads the undefeated Toms River South Girls Lacrosse team to 3 victories, scoring 25 goals and 9 assists along the way!

Meredith also set a TRS Girls Lacrosse single-game scoring record on Thursday, tallying a stupefying 9 goals and 3 assists in a 16-3 victory over Toms River East! WOW!

>> Tatum Coffey (TRN) lit things up on the Lacrosse field, as well.

>> Mike Bodden continues to have a solid year for MonDon Baseball.

>> Anthony LaCava is tearing the cover off the ball on the diamond over at Toms River North.

>> Ben Nogiewich is having a solid year on the Volleyball court at Toms River South.

>> Fresh in from Miami Beach is the following news:
Ashley Conroy scored personal bests in the 100 freestyle and the 100 backstroke at the YMCA National meet!

Ashley Conroy cruises to a personal best 59.59 in
the 100 backstroke at the YMCA nationals in Miami Beach

She swam Ocean County YMCA record times in both events! Ashley cruised to a 59.59 second 100 backstroke and a blazing 53.97 in the 100 free!!

As if that wasn't enough, just before she left for Miami Beach, Ashely was awarded the team MVP Trophy at the Monsignor Donovan Swim Team Banquet!! She owns the MonDon 100 backstroke record, at 59.44 seconds!

Each of these athletes, like the hundreds of others who call All-Star Sports Academy their training home, are tasting success because of their work ethic, good training habits and sheer desire to win!

All-Star Sports Academy congratulates them all! If you're having success in your sport, whether it's club, league or scholastic, be sure to tell us, and we'll put your exploits in these pages, as well!

Do you want to taste victory and success, too? We're here to help! Simply Contact Us and we'll set you up with a free, one week trial membership at All-Star Sports Academy!

Hey, we're making it as easy as we can for YOU to get into All-Star!!

"Game of Inches"

2009-04-16T16:34:00.001-04:00

In any sport, any day, a game can be won or lost on a matter of inches (not pounds).

Whether it's a cornerback tipping away a cruicial pass, an outfield making a "snowcone" catch in the 9th with runners on, or a runner beating out a throw to first on a "bang-bang" play, big plays in big games are based on a few inches and fractions of a second.

Those game-changing inches are not gained on a bench on "max out" day, your "leg day", or on those weeks when you want to "go heavy"! (Jose Reyes never stole a base because he racked the leg extension machine)

The inches that make the difference can be gained in a step. One step! Your FIRST STEP!

This is the step that an athlete has the ability to make a huge improvement on with only a few basic changes. For example, in baseball, the average time difference between being out or safe when stealing second base is close to 0.10 seconds. Improving only your starting position and first step as a base-runner can make that difference.

What do I mean by first step speed? Simply put, first step speed is the ability of an athlete to put his or her body into motion quickly and efficiently. The body must be in a position that enables an athlete to produce an explosive and productive first step.

So how do we improve our first step and quickness?

Here are a few tips:

Be in an athletic position at all times. Being in poor position will result in an inability to produce the optimal amount of force in the desired direction. For example, a stance that is too wide makes it difficult for an athlete to explode laterally for two reasons; the athlete will not have a good "push" off both legs and it requires more force to get the body's center of gravity over the lead foot to develop any momentum in the appropriate direction.
Train "fast". In order to have the explosive first step you want, you must train the body to be an explosive unit. Plyometric training (done properly) is an excellent way to increase your explosiveness. Squat strength will not result in an optimal first step if you do not develop power as well. Power is determined by the amount of force you apply through a certain distance in a certain amount of time. Therefore, an athlete should be working to increase strength (force production), range of motion (distance force is applied), and speed of movement (decreasing the time it takes to move through the range of motion). Ok, in normal terms, push harder, faster. Small improvements in each of these areas will result in a large improvement in overall power and the ability of an athlete to have an explosive first step.
Increase mental quickness to increase "game speed". Incorporate visual cues to your speed and agility drills. Athletes must be able to react and adjust quickly to certain on-field cues. Make basic agility drills more difficult by simply adding the element of reaction time.

So take your workout to the next level! Get off the bench, get on your feet, and move!

Need ideas to help get your game "up to speed"? Check out www.allstarsportsacademynj.com for some videos and click on free trial to get started TODAY!

One of the essentials

2009-04-15T16:44:00.004-04:00

For what seems like forever, the fitness industry has been trying to come up with a "better" exercise for integrated core and upper body strength than the push-up.

With all the fancy-schmancy machines and exercise toys on the market, the bottom line remains the same.

The push-up is still king when it comes to developing core stabilization, strength and power! Every single athlete, regardless of sport, should master the push up and include it in their training program!

Now that's not saying that all you have to do to get killer core strength is your basic 2 arm, 2 leg, straight-up-and-down military style push-up.

But too many trainers think they can improve their athletes' strength and power by jumping right to the "cool" exercises, instead of mastering the basics and then progressing to more advanced techniques.

I know, you're saying "yeah, yeah, I know. I've heard you say it a million times!"

Really, then why do most athletes look like a seal begging for fish when they try even a straightforward push-up?

Here's a little video we put together about push-ups and some variations.

Watch closely. If you can't master the very first one, don't move on to any of the others. Well, except maybe the very last one, since it really requires NO athletic skill that I'm aware of.

As an aside, the athlete you'll see in the first segment was able to do about 6 of the push-ups you see early on with me. Within weeks, he could do 20-25 at a clip. Yeah, they're THAT effective! Enjoy!

After you watch, and you're ready to learn how to do the push-up and about 200 variations correctly, as well as get in the best athletic shape of your life, go here: http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/free-trial-membership

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

PS...If you're not using Prograde Workout Shake as a pre- or post-workout meal replacement, you might be eating garbage!

Want better workouts (and results?)

2009-04-14T16:36:00.003-04:00

Then you have to warm up and get flexible!

Today's post is short and sweet. In our Sports Performance Center everyone warms up and uses flexibility training to improve performance and results.

Now, there's a gulf of difference between stretching and flexibility training

Stretching is simply applying pressure against the muscle's natural response (called a myotatic stretch response) until the fibers of the muscle begin to lengthen. This may or may not always be a good idea.

Flexibility training is the process by which we develop the ability within a muscle, muscle group or around a joint to move within a full range of motion (ROM) with stability and without limitation, at varying speeds and in all planes of motion.

How do we do that? Good question! First, we need to get muscles warm. We can do this with some simple movement exercises, like skipping, light jogging and lunges for the lower body and push up rotations, rotational punching and light medicine ball work for the upper body.

Warm-up movements should be performed with 2 ends in mind: 1.) create blood flow to muscles and joints, and 2.) reinforce proper functional movement patterns.

Beginning with a solid functional warm-up will help create and reinforce the kind of functional ROM athletes (and everyone else!) need to improve sports performance.

We do recommend and program in some "stretches" in the warm-up phase. These, however, are usually integrated into the movements we're using, or directly related to them. More on those next week.

If you'd like more information on this topic, contact us through the website: http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

To get a complimentary one week trial in any of our breakthrough training programs, click here:
All-Star trial week

And don't forget! May 1st at 7:30 PM, we'll be hosting the kickoff session for Get a Swimsuit-ready Body by July 4th!!

Click here to reserve your seat: http://tinyurl.com/Swimsuitready

For a $10 registration, you'll walk away with over $60 in bonuses to help you look hot, hot, hot this summer!!

A fresh approach...

2009-04-13T17:39:00.006-04:00

We've decided that we'd like to create some regular features for this little blog site.

So, Mondays will be "Nutrition Day!" Since that's one of the most frequently asked questions around here, we thought we'd address it first each week. We'll provide you a little tip for better eating and a recipe to go along with it.

The rest of the week? Well, Tuesday will be flexibility and warm up day, Wednesday will be strength day, Thursday is speed/agility/quickness day and on Friday it's open subject day. We'll also update you on the stats from the athletes we train for the sports/seasons in which they're participating.

So...without further ado...here's your nutrition stuff for this Monday!
__________________________________________________________

Have you ever wondered how much fiber is "enough?" For men, it's generally 30 to 35 grams per day, including both types (soluble and insoluble - soluble is the one that keeps the cardiovascular system clean and insoluble helps move things along the digestive tract. That's a simple perspective on the types). For women, 25 to 30 grams per day, again, including both types.

How do you get that much fiber? Well, many people use a psyllium (SILL-yum) supplement. However, reasearch shows that psyllium supplements do a poor job of reducing C-reactive proteins in the body. C-Reactive Proteins, or CRP's, are markers for inflammation, particularly in the blood vessels. Obese people and people at cardiovascular risk need to be attentive to this particular marker, since it is a reliable indicator of heartattack and stroke risk.

So, what to do? Include fiber from numerous dietary sources. Try these sources:

Fruits - Eat fruit with edible skin. Apples, pears, peaches, plums, berries of all kinds (berries ROCK, since they include lots of other benefits like antioxidant power!)
Vegetables - That's right. Veggies. Especially cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, celery, dark leafy greens and onions, asparagus, cucumbers, garlic and other salad foods also count!
WHOLE grains - We're talking whole grains like oat bran, steel cut oats (just better than regular oatmeal, period), barley, quinoa (a delicious pasta substitute!) and rice - brown, long grain and wild rice.
Beans and lentils - Beans, beans good for your heart, the more you eat...the more fiber you get, silly! Many also contain very beneficial proteins. Whether you're trying to lose weight or gain muscle, these babies are powerful!

If you want to add a few grams of whole grain fiber to your diet in a delicious way, try Prograde Cravers Snacks. They have 3 grams of fiber from rice and oats, organic chocolate, and they taste amazing!

Now here's a delicious, high fiber recipe for chili:

White Chicken Chipotle Chili

Makes 6 servings

Description
Chipotle peppers are jalapeños that have been dried and smoked. They come canned, packed in adobo (a tomato-based sauce); you can find them in the Hispanic or ethnic foods aisle of your market. Beware: Unless you like your chili super-hot, remove the seeds from the peppers before adding.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (1 3/4 pounds), cut into 1-inch chunks
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
Salt and black pepper
3 (14.5-ounce) cans white kidney or cannellini beans, drained (save 1/2 cup draining liquid) and rinsed
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
1 teaspoon canned chipotle chili, seeded and minced
1/2 cup nonfat half-and-half

Garnishes: Shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese, chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions:
1. Warm the oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add onion; cook 4 minutes, stirring. Push onions to one side; add chicken to skillet and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook 5 minutes, stirring.
2. Increase heat to medium-high. Add 2 cans of beans and draining liquid, 1 1/4 cups broth, and chipotle; bring to a simmer. Cook 10 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, combine remaining 1 can of beans and 3/4 cup broth in bowl of food processor. Puree until smooth, then add to soup in pot, along with half-and-half. Simmer a few minutes, stirring, until ingredients are warmed through and flavors incorporate. Serve hot; garnish with cheese and cilantro.

Nutritional Information:
360 calories
5 g total fat (1 g sat)
85 mg cholesterol
33 g carbohydrate
41 g protein
8 g fiber
671 mg sodium

Enjoy!

Big squats and crappy speed

2009-03-05T13:51:00.000-05:00

Lots of athletes today, at all levels of competition, seem immensely "strong."

How do they define strong? Big bench, big squat. Maybe, just maybe by also measuring dead lift and power clean numbers.

The problem? All those "strong" athletes are getting left in the dust by the fast ones!

Let's face it, in sports, SPEED KILLS!

In truth, it's not even speed that matters so much in sports, it's acceleration!

So why are so many athletes who are "hitting the weight room" consistently STILL getting smoked by athletes putting in "less work"?

Listen closely...ready?

ABSOLUTE STRENGTH (the ability to move a lot of weight once) doesn't automatically translate to higher SPEED STRENGTH (the ability to produce the strength required to move the body or it's parts quickly in a sustained motion)!!

That's why all those hours "in the gym" don't create faster, more powerful athletes. Too often, traditional training programs focus too myopically on the "product" of weight training (moving weight) and not nearly enough on the real desired result (better athletic performance.)

Here's an excerpt from an article by a guy I deeply respect, Mike Boyle (Trainer to the BU Men's Hockey program, among others):

"Many athletes can squat large amounts of weight. Far fewer athletes seem able to run fast. Any student of speed will tell you that many of the strength exercises commonly recommended for speed development work hip extension but not HIP HYPEREXTENSION. In running speed all of the force production is from hip hyperextenison. The ability to apply force to the ground and create forward movement can only occur when the foot is placed under the center of mass and pushed back. Although squats, etc. will train the muscles involved, the training is not specific to the act of sprinting."

If you'd like to develop the kind of acceleration ability that will separate you from the rest of the athletic pack, contact us at http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/contact

We'll be happy to set you up with a free trial week, so you can actually feel the difference!

Watch out for these two

2009-02-24T17:14:00.006-05:00

One of the fun things about working with youth athletes is that they tend to be real characters.

Sometimes, they take the "character" part pretty far.

It doesn't always work out. Many times, though, it's pretty darned entertaining.

This was one of those times. In the video linked below, you're going to meet 2 hard-working
female athletes who like to have fun. They often fall into the "entertaining" category, but this
was a real winner!

Go watch the video, it's all of 40 seconds long, and sure to leave you chuckling.

After, if you want to know how they have so much fun "at the gym," you can contact us here:
All-Star Sports Academy Contact

Prefer something more "serious?" Try this video:

Then, if you want to learn and do moves like this one, contact us here:
All-Star Sports Academy Contact

Silly and fun or serious...the bottom line is All-Star Sports Academy gets results!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Phil, Brian and Sean
All-Star Sports Academy

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

PS...We're celebrating our one year anniversary! Watch for out email on Thursday regarding
our absolutely insane, unbelievable, off-our-meds anniversary offer! It'll only be available for
a very short time, so you'll wanna jump on it!

PSS...Don't forget, we're still looking for baseball players for our Central Jersey Baseball Academy
League 11U, 12U and 13U teams. This is a truly unique travel baseball league! Go here for more info:
All-Star Sports Academy CJBAL

Hockey players...a scholarship just for you...

2009-02-17T20:18:00.007-05:00

If you are a High School Hockey player looking for money for college, check out this scholarship!

New Jersey Devils Alumni Association
SCHOLARSHIP FUND AWARD OFFICIAL RULES

1. Eligibility. A graduating New Jersey high school senior who complies with the conditions described in these Official Rules shall be eligible to be considered for a $2,500 New Jersey Devils Alumni Association Scholarship Fund Award (“Award”).
1.1 The student must satisfy the criteria described below.
(a) The student must be nominated for the Award by the student’s high school Athletic Director or hockey coach.
(b) The student must be a member of the high school hockey team and must have played an integral role on the team.
(c) The student must have demonstrated leadership qualities on and off the ice.
(d) The student must have participated in high school and/or community activities.
(e) Through the most recent grading period the student must have attained a high school cumulative grade point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 grading system) or equivalent grade if the student’s school uses a different grading system.
(f) The student must be accepted for admission on a full-time matriculating basis to a two or four year academic program at an accredited post-secondary collegiate educational institution.

1.2 The student must complete the application required by the New Jersey Devils Alumni Association ("Association"), and furnish information and documentation supporting compliance with the above criteria, which shall include the items described below.
(a) A nominating letter from the student’s high school Athletic Director or hockey coach.
(b) An official high school letter or grade transcript verifying the student’s grade point average. (c) A letter of admission and acceptance from the collegiate institution described above, or other similar proof of admission to such institution.
(d) An additional letter of recommendation.

2. Award. Each student selected for an Award will be eligible to receive the Award in accordance with the conditions described below.
(a) The amount of the Award shall be a one-time payment of $2,500 made payable directly to the student’s collegiate institution described above, to be used for legitimate educational expenses, which include tuition, fees, room, board, and required books and supplies.
(b) Any failure to comply with these Official Rules shall result in a forfeiture of the Award granted.
(c) The student and/or the student’s parent/legal guardian (for any student under 18 years of age), as a condition of being considered for an Award, shall indemnify, release, and hold harmless the Association and its members, New Jersey Devils LLC, the National Hockey League, any sponsors of the Award, and their affiliates, respective officers, directors, agents, contractors, and employees from and against any liability for injuries or damages of any kind directly or indirectly arising from the application for, grant or use of the Award.
(d) The Award shall be contingent upon the student and/or parent/legal guardian executing a confirmation of eligibility, and a release of liability and publicity rights.

3. Judging. The selection of students to receive Awards and all decisions applying and interpreting these Award Official Rules shall be judged and determined by the Association or committee thereof, or representative(s) designated by the Association or such committee, and all such judgments and decisions shall be final.

4. Miscellaneous. These Official Rules shall govern each Award and Award application. No assignment or transfer of the Award will be permitted. The Award cannot be redeemed for cash value. All federal, state, and local taxes are the sole responsibility of the Award recipient. The Association members and their relatives, and employees and relatives of employees of the Association, the New Jersey Devils LLC, the National Hockey League, and any sponsors of the Award are not eligible to participate. The Award and the Official Rules are subject to applicable laws, including the laws of the state of New Jersey, and shall be void where prohibited thereunder.

Good Luck!

And as always, we'll see you at All-Star Sports Academy!

Old gloves, bats, cleats never die

2009-02-16T15:39:00.001-05:00

Do you have used bats, gloves, cleats or baseball pants taking up room in your garage, basement or closet?

Toms River East Little League is asking you to help "recycle" them!

If you've outgrown it, replaced it or no longer need it, bring it to the TRELL Equipment Swap Drive for 2009!
It's a sensible and practical way to get the most out of your no-longer-needed items!

Bring any or all items (no helmets, please!) to the TRELL indoor practice facility on Saturday, February 21st,
2009 from 10 AM til 2 PM!

Then, any player, parent, coach or league member who can use the equipment will be able to get it F.R.E.E!
on Saturday, February 28 from 10 AM til 2 PM at the TRELL indoor facility!

All-Star Sports Academy is sponsoring this great event by providing twenty (20) complimentary one month
sports fitness memberships, to be distributed by a drawing from among all who contribute equipment!

For more information, go to http://www.tomsriverblacksox.tv or http://www.leaguelineup.com/trell

We'll see you at TRELL on Saturday!

Phil, Brian and Sean
All-Star Sports Academy

PS...Don't forget! Registration is now taking place for the CJBAL 11U, 12U and 13U All-Star Sports Academy
Travel Baseball Teams! This is a unique developmental travel ball opportunity for all players!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

It Isn't Every Day..

2009-02-13T08:25:00.001-05:00

It's not every day that a truly unique sports opportunity comes around. Today,
however, is one of those days!

Do you play baseball, or have a child who does, at the 11U, 12U or 13U level?

Then you need to know about the Central Jersey Baseball Academy League and the
All-Star Sports Academy teams that will play in it!

This is a very different take on "travel ball." The CJBAL is a developmental league
for young baseball players, put together by the 7 finest baseball academies in Central
Jersey!

Enrollment includes 2 athletic/baseball skills training sessions each week, as well
as all league fees, equipment, umps and uniforms!

We have room for 30-32 players at each of the 11U, 12U and 13U levels.

Learn more, and find out how to enroll your player here: CJBAL Information

Or just call us (732-597-3725) or contact us via email.

Why not learn from the best and play against the best?

Contact us today!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Phil, Brian and Sean
All-Star Sports Academy

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com - Contact us today for your Free One Week Trial!

Are you THIS person?

2009-02-11T13:06:00.000-05:00

You want to help kids.

You respect and appreciate youth sports.

You love basketball, and you love coaching basketball.

If these three statements describe you, then the Jersey Shore Hurricanes are looking for you. Right now!

Email Nunzio Forese, nunzioforese@comcast.net, or Neil Higham, nhigham@celticintl.com.

The Hurricanes are a great basketball organization, with teams for both boys and girls at various age levels. Some of the best players in the Shore area play for them, and they need coaches so they can give that same great opportunity to more players!

If you are not interested, or can't help, but know someone who might, please let that person know how to get in touch with the Hurricanes!

You might just be giving some young player a chance to shine!

NOTE: If your sports team, league or organization is looking for coaches, please let us know. We'd be happy to send a similar newsletter on your behalf to our newsletter list of over 1,100 readers!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Team Training

2009-02-10T14:47:00.004-05:00

Why let All-Star Sports Academy develop and run YOUR Team Training program?

The facts are:

Teams that train together year round perform better! Many collegiate and even high school teams have a year-round training program in place. Available to everyone, these programs guarantee progressive athletic skill-set improvement. Pairing this development with the reinforcement of sport-specific skills assures maximal off-season and pre-season improvement!
Teams that have a scientifically rational, progressive training system suffer fewer early injuries! The truth is that when athletes enter their seasons ready to play and at maximal conditioning levels, their teams suffer fewer injuries in the tryout/pre-season prep phase.
Teams with organized in-season training programs suffer fewer injuries during the season! In 2005, the University of Maryland men's soccer team used an in-season program of 30-35 minutes of functional sports fitness training 3 times a week. In that season, Maryland won the National Championship! They reduced their injury rate, increased output on the field, and basically blew by their opponents!
Teams that train functionally improve fastest! Functional Sports Fitness Training is the fastest and most efficient way to convert physical and athletic skills into sport-specific skill mastery! Core training feeds strength training. Strength training feeds power training. Power training feeds speed and agility training. The combined athletic skill-sets make it easier for athletes to master sport-specific skills and apply them at game time.
Teams that train together overcome adversity and have more fun! When they work hard together, they're ready to take it to the field, court or ice together! Challenges become minimized and victory simply becomes part of the team culture! Isn't that why we play our sports? Because winning is more fun than losing?!?

Coaches!! Let's get started now! Contact us and we'll help you get your Team Training Program on track to get real results!!

Sorry? Not good enough!

2009-02-02T10:36:00.006-05:00

"I engaged in behavior which was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment...I'm 23 years old and despite the successes I've had in the pool, I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner people have come to expect from me. For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public it will not happen again."

This is the line of crap Michael Phelps wants you and I, and every sports fan to believe.

His age and "youthfulness" are supposed to make us forget the fact that all across America, youngsters have been let down by this fraud.

I held my tongue when he sold out to Kelloggs Frosted Flakes and every other company with a fat checkbook.

Not now, though.

Hey Phelps...you're a role model, like it or not. In a world where idiot politicians "forget" to pay their taxes, then get fat government positions ANYWAY, you WERE a guy we thought we could look to as an example of what hard, smart work and dedication could get you if you simply committed yourself.

Apparently not. That image, that hope has apparently gone up in smoke.

I hope it was worth it, Michael.

Disagree? Have other thoughts? Leave them here on the comments page!

We'll see you at All-Star Sports Academy!

Youth Baseball "Crash Course"

2009-01-28T08:53:00.001-05:00

As we near the end of the pigskin season, young mens hearts turn to
thoughts of...you guessed it, Baseball!

With about 2 months until opening day for youth baseball in our area,
about a month until practices start, time is growing short for our youngsters
to "tune it up" before the season!

That's okay! All-Star Sports Academy is offering a way to help your young
player be ready for practice and for when the ump yells "Play Ball!" on opening day!

We're offering a 6 week Youth Baseball "Crash Course!" Using the very best
instructors and instructional techniques available, along with flat-out great coaching,
we'll help your 8-13 year old be ready to tear it up on opening day!

Simply visit us here: Youth Baseball Crash Course info All the information you need to
enroll is at the bottom of the page.

As always, if you have any questions or comments, please contact us!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Raging on!!

2009-01-27T15:48:00.000-05:00

The All-Star Sports Academy "1st and 10" Referral Contest has been "raging" for three weeks now!

Right now the race is incredibly tight! 3 different athletes are neck and neck (and neck?) for the lead in the Youth/Athlete Division, and the Adult Division is completely up for grabs!

Sooo...since we like to give everyone a chance to "come through in the clutch," we're doing 2 things:

1. Sweetening the pot! That's right! As if a 4 night Wyndham Resorts Package in sunny Florida isn't enough, we're adding prizes to both Divisions! In the Youth/Athlete Division, we're adding a $50 gift card to Modell's, 2 movie passes and a 1 hour Sports or Deep Tissue Massage from In-Touch Massage Center in Toms River!

In the Adult Division, we're adding movie passes, a Massage from In-Touch and a 2 year Family Membership to the Tuckerton Seaport! That's all in addition to the 4 night Wyndham Resorts Florida hotel package!

2. Extending the Contest Period! Participants will now get credit for referrals made and enrollments completed right up until February 28, 2009!

Why the change? Well, newly enrolled clients wanted to play, too! That, and the fact that we wanted to add more prizes, and then give everyone a chance to win them!Already an All-Star Sports Academy client? Get your cards and get int the game!

Not enrolled in any of our great training and sports fitness programs yet? No problem!
Just click here: All-Star Sports Academy Trial Week Contact Form

We'll be happy to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation trial week in any of our programs! If you know someone who already participates with us, be sure to mention their name! You might just help them win our "1st and 10" Referral Contest!

Just another reason why we should see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!!

Playing on a different stage

2009-01-26T14:50:00.005-05:00

Here at All-Star Sports Academy, we're always proud of the achievements of the athletes with whom we work.

A lot of the time, we're celebrating their being named to an All-County, All-Shore or All-State team. Sometimes, we're celebrating a college scholarship or acceptance.

Every so often, however, we get to celebrate something really unique!

That's what happened last week with Matt Kalinowski. Matt is a young athlete who plays lacrosse.

Matt also, apparently, has some pretty serious acting skills!

He landed the role of "The Beast" in the Toms River Intermediate School production of "Beauty and The Beast!"

I saw Matt's last show Saturday night, and he was terrific!

I was proud of him, excited for him and a little shocked at how comfortable and natural he looked on stage!

We're proud of Matt, and as soon as we have video of his performance, we'll post it here and at http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Green Foods...you have the power!

2009-01-20T18:19:00.007-05:00

At some point in the history of mankind, he realized that hunting wild game was difficult, time consuming and often dangerous. With this realization came the caveman version of “there’s gotta be a better way!”

Some caveman (ok…probably a cavewoman…you know how stubborn we men are!) looked around and noticed all the green stuff all over. Maybe a keen sense of smell noticed how fresh the stuff smelled, as well. He certainly had to notice that there were a lot more leafy greens than available deer, antelope or mammoths.

So hunter gatherers began eating green and raw foods. Good for them, and good for us!

Unfortunately, with the rise in world populations, the agricultural and industrial revolutions and the advent of the “instant gratification” lifestyle, Americans moved away from farm-fresh and towards pre-processed, pre-packaged and junk foods.

Green foods and vegetables in general are making a “comeback” thanks to better education and lots of fear-inducing news stories about obesity, heart disease and other large scale health problems.

While green foods are claimed to have health benefits including improved immune function, better digestion, improvements in eyesight, brain function and heart health, I’d like to focus on the benefits to athletes of consuming green and raw foods (vegetables.)

Athletic performance is aided by consumption of fresh vegetables and green foods by virtue of the fact that these carbohydrate sources are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and enzymes.

Vitamins and minerals, while not a direct source of energy, aid the body in regulating metabolism and breaking down energy sources from foods. Enzymes also assist this process. A diet rich in raw and green foods, as well as vegetables in general, will therefore result in higher levels of energy absorption from food sources.

Recovery time between exercises, sports activity or workouts is enhanced by the consumption of green and raw foods. The chlorophyll contained in green veggies helps increase oxygen uptake in the body. This, in turn, helps flush lactic acid, allowing muscles to recover quicker and more fully. Increased oxygen uptake also means better muscular and cardiorespiratory endurance for athletes.

Antioxidants also help to reduce inflammation in muscles and joints. This helps avoid missed workouts, games, meets or matches. Pain is a great limiter, and inflammation causes pain. Eating greens and raw foods may just help you stay in the game!

What are “green foods?” Simple; they’re vegetables of various types.

Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, asparagus), leafy greens (Romaine lettuce, green, red, Boston or bibb lettuce, spinach, collard greens, watercress), sprouts of broccoli, alfalfa or radishes, or sea vegetables like kelp.

However, any fresh vegetable, of any color will help you perform better. Peppers, green beans, peas, squash and zucchini all contain beneficial goodies! Add them to your diet in easy ways.

Add peppers, broccoli or spinach to omelets or egg whites, or even in soups. Include dark lettuce and/or watercress on every sandwich.

Chop broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, peppers and cabbage and mix together with low-fat mayo and some parmesan cheese for a fresh take on slaw.

You can also add a good multivitamin/mineral supplement, like Prograde VGF 25+ for men, Prograde VGF 25+ for Women or Melaleuca Vitality,(click here and put "Melaleuca Vitality" in the subject line for more info) to your daily plan. These won’t replace your veggie intake, but will help fill the gap when you can’t get your fill of veggies!

Be creative and consistent, and you’ll reap the benefits of green foods. Bottom line: veggies help your athletic training and performance, so…don’t be a hater! Be an eater; of veggies and “green foods!”

For more help with your athletic eating plan, talk to the All-Star trainers!

Your success is our business!

Youth Fitness: Beware the Rise of the Machines!

2009-01-13T15:50:00.005-05:00

As you can imagine, we’re pummeled with marketing and advertising for the “newest,” “most cutting edge” and “next generation” of equipment for youth fitness.

What's odd about this stuff is that it looks like “Mini-Me” versions of the same crappy, dangerous machines that parents and adults are getting unfit and unhealthy on in their “health clubs!” Fixed position, uni-planar, single movement “fitness” equipment that nearly always creates injury patterns in the people who use them.

Yes! Building muscle will help you lose body fat! Yes! Regularly performing resistance training will help build muscle! Yes! These machines were “engineered” to maximize (isolated) muscular output! (and maybe for use at Gitmo?) Yet a strange thing has happened to American adults, even those who use these machines to “get in shape!”

They’ve become so dependent on them that they're no longer capable of performing strength building exercises without the artificial “intelligence” provided by these contraptions! So when the time comes to apply their newly developed “strength,” they either get injured or realize they aren’t nearly as “strong” as the numbers on their exercise machines would indicate!

Add to this the fact that more back, shoulder, knee, ankle and hip injuries are caused by the use of these torture machines in a year than in the NFL in 10 years, and it makes me wonder. It makes me wonder why we’d shove our children onto this junkyard fodder in the first place!

We know that “free-form” functional exercises, those that mimic real-life and sports movements, not only result in better movement patterns (think injury-resistance), they burn more calories and build more muscle! That’s right, functional integrated training stimulates the development of a far greater number of muscles than isolated, fixed position machine training.

Let’s look at a very popular exercise machine for both youth sports and adult fitness, the leg press. Plate loaded, selectorized (think weight-stack-and-pin) or otherwise resisted, it artificially stabilizes the body as the exerciser tries to perform hip and knee extension. The design creates higher levels of lumbar strain during the eccentric lowering, or negative phase of movement. Extreme hip flexion at the bottom of the leg press prevents proper glute activity and puts a tremendous amount of stress on the knees.

Squatting done correctly increases knee stability. The leg press reduces knee stabilization, increasing the risk of serious injury. Additionally, many exercisers, especially young athletes, load far too much weight on the leg press, in a misguided effort to increase leg strength. This can result in spinal injury and, potentially, permanent damage to knees, back and hips.

Good squat form may be a challenge to master but squatting develops far higher levels of functional strength. Here's a great bonus: squats help athletes develop total body, multi-planar strength and power, compared with the limited strength developed on fixed position, artificially stabilized exercise machines designed to “isolate muscle groups.” (More on this fallacy in the future!)

Speaking more generally, most exercise machines are simply not designed to support the adolescent body, let alone pre-pubescent kids!

Seated overhead press machines are typically designed in a way that places a great deal of stress on the lumbar spine. These forces far outweigh those produced during standing overhead pressing, when the core stabilization system is more readily recruited for spinal stability. Athletes often end up in severe lumbar misalignment in an effort to lift higher weights.

Leg extension and leg curl machines fix the body in the sagittal plane (think straight-ahead) and create hip flexion and shear force at the knee (leg extension) or extreme lumbar extension (lordosis) and hip flexion (leg curl.) Both seriously reduce the body’s ability to stabilize the knee and spine.

How then should children exercise in order to avoid the onslaught of the machines? Ground-based training, with an emphasis on bodyweight stabilization exercises first, with progression to bodyweight/implement based strength training, integrated along with speed, agility, balance, flexibility and power training, is the key to youth fitness and sports training success!

Better fitness levels for everyone? Higher levels of sports performance? And all of this while drastically reducing injury and extending athletic careers? Yes, yes and yes!

The strategy is simple…resist the “rise of the machines!” Your future depends on it!Contact us today to learn how to become part of the "Resistance!!

Visit us here: "I want to be part of the 'Machine Resistance!'"

And the Champion is...

2009-01-09T20:42:00.004-05:00

UTAH!

OK...Florida won the BCS National Championship last night.

But if you're Utah...you're thinking "We're undefeated, and we can't get a shot!"

The time has come for a College Football Playoff system.

Plain and simple.

In the meantime, if you're ready to play like a champion, no matter what your sport, contact us for your free trial membership.

Visit us here: All-Star Sports Academy Free Trial

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Train to play to win!

2009-01-07T20:31:00.001-05:00

"When my season starts, I want to be ready to win!"

That's what athletes tell us. A lot!

My advice? Be ready to win now!

DECIDE that you are going to win!

DECIDE that you will do absolutely everything within your power to prepare to win!

DECIDE that you will go all out, every time, to insure victory!

DECIDE that, win or lose, every game or match or meet will be a learning opportunity for you!

Then, decide that you're ready to start training like you're thinking!

Training to win...training to excel and enjoy the ride!

Contact us here: All-Star Sports Academy Starter Page

We'll tell you how to get started acting on your decision.

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

It's BCS Time...let the Confusion Reign!

2009-01-06T20:18:00.002-05:00

Ok...it's that time of year. You know, when every college football fan is excited, fired up...and confused!

This year, the NCAA and the BCS have decided that Oklahoma and Florida will play for the mythical College Football National Championship. Never mind that Oklahoma lost to Texas (who lost to Texas Tech who lost to Oklahoma!) Never mind that Florida lost to Ole Miss (who lost to Alabama who lost to Florida!)

Oh yeah, did I mention that there's still an undefeated team out there?

Utah, who came into the Sugar Bowl at 12-0, put away Alabama (who lost to Florida, but beat Ole Miss, who beat Florida.)

So should Utah be the National Champion? More to come on that.

However, at 13-0, no matter what happens Thursday, January 8th, the Utes should be knocking on the door over at NCAA Headquarters in Indianapolis saying "We got next!"

It's time to stop playing favorites and start playing playoff games!

By the way...our prediction here? Florida by 7 in a late game flourish. Tim Tebow just wants to win!

Happy New Year From All-Star!!

2008-12-31T13:01:00.000-05:00

All-Star Sports Academy wishes everyone a New Year 2009 thats
Healthy

Happy

Successful

Fulfilling

and most of all

FUN!!

It's 2009! Isn't it time we saw YOU at All-Star Sports Academy?

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

It's Cold Out....Go Out and Exercise!

2008-12-26T06:04:00.001-05:00

Yeah, sure...we know. It's cold out. No, it's frigid! Icy! Ridiculously frosty! So that means it's time to take walking, running and other forms of exercise indoors, right?

Wrong! In fact, cold weather outdoor exercise can increase cardio response and promote better autoimmune function. If, that is, you do it correctly!

Here are some tips to help you keep your program on pace without packing into a sweaty, noisy gym and getting on a treadmill (heaven forbid! More on this counterproductive piece of junk in a later post.)

1. Check with doc if you have asthma or a heart condition - Most people can exercise outdoors in the cold with little additional risk. If you have asthma or a heart issue, though, check with your doctor first.

2. Layer it on! - Did you know that when you exercise, the heat generated by your body can make it feel 30 degrees warmer than it really is? It's true! So dressing too warmly to start your session can actually make you "overheat" while working out!

Of course, as you sweat and get tired, you can get chilled. The solution? Multiple, thin layers you can remove as you get warm, then replace if you start to chill. The Mayo Clinic recommends a layer of polypropylene or other "wicking" material next to the skin. Avoid cotton, which stays wet and clings to skin. Next, try fleece, says Mayo, for insulation. Top this with a layer of breathable, waterproof material.

This combination should do the trick. Add fleece or wicking layers if needed. If cotton is a necessary choice as a layer, put it between the wicking material and the fleece. If it's 0 degrees or below, use a scarf or face mask to cover the mouth.

3. Choose the "right stuff!" - Use reflective gear at night. This is true no matter what time of year it is. Make sure your running/walking/training shoes have enough "bite" to help you keep your footing. Try wider base shoes for winter running. If you ski/snowboard...wear a helmet!

4. Remember the fluids and sunscreen! - You may not think so, but you can dehydrate easily while exercising in the winter. The outside air is usually dry as well as cold, exacerbating dehydration even during moderate exercise. Sunscreen will help not only with the winter sun, but with windburn as well. SPF 15 and UVA/UVB protection are a good start. SPF lip balm will also keep the "chap" away.

5. Catch a headwind and pay attention to the wind chill! - If running or walking, start with the wind in your face. That way, when you're returning, tired and sweaty, it will be at your back.

Wind passes over the body, venting the warm layer of insulating air near the skin. Moving fast, as in running, skiing, skating, snowboarding, etc., also creates wind chill as the air moves past you. Example: skiing at 20 miles an hour on a 10 degree day creates a wind chill of -9 degrees! If the ambient temperature is well below 0, you may want to choose an indoor activity!

6. Know when something is wrong! - You need to be aware of the signs of frostibite (paleness of skin, numbness, loss of sensation or a stinging sensation) and hypothermia (intense shivering, slurred speech, loss of coordination, fatigue).

For frostbite, get where it's warm and slowly warm the affected area (don't rub it!) For hypothermia, get help immediately! Hypothermia requires medical treatment to prevent complications.

7. Get motivated, stay smart! - There's no reason to hole up indoors and wait for spring! You can stay in the great outdoors and stay safe. Just be aware of how to prepare and how to prevent potential problems!

As always, if you have questions about this or any other exercise topic, feel free to contact us. Just go to http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/contact and let us know how we can help you!

And we'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Happy Holidays from All-Star Sports Academy!

2008-12-23T14:58:00.004-05:00

All of us at All-Star Sports Academy would like to take this opportunity to say

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah and Happy Holidays!!

We're taking the 24th and 25th off to be with those we love, but we'll be right

back at it on the 26th!!

Check the website for the Holiday 2008 schedule:

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/schedule

Thank you to all of you who have helped us grow our practice in 2008,

and we look forward to serving you in 2009 and beyond!

"You're going to Disney World!"

2008-12-21T04:06:00.003-05:00

Well, you've certainly got a shot at it!

The 1st and 10 Club "Send Me to Florida Referral Contest" is on!

Get in the game now!

Here's the guidelines:

Rules and Guidelines

1. Contest Period – The contest will begin on December 30, 2008. Official end-of-referrals date will be January 30, 2009. Enrollments completed by February 7th will count toward contest totals. Winners will be announced on or about February 22, 2009

2. Prizes – Winner in each category will receive a 4 night, 5 day Wyndham hotel vacation package to Florida. Package includes 2 nights in Destin, Daytona Beach or Fort Lauderdale, followed by 2 nights in Orlando. Winner is responsible for airfare, rental cars and all other associated costs. Also included is a one hour Sports Massage Therapy Gift Certificate from In-Touch Massage Center in Toms River, 4 movie passes, Nutritional Consultations, All-Star Sports Academy swag, free pizza and more! Prize list will grow, so check back often!

3. "Send Me to Florida Referral Contest" is open only to those enrolled in All-Star Sports Academy training programs, and parents of those enrolled. Contestants must fill out their agreement sheets before participating in the contest. Trainees enrolling during the contest period are also eligible to participate and win.

4. Contestants can take up to five (5) "1^st and 10" cards at a time. All other conditions of the "1^st and 10" Club will be in effect during the contest, including the 10% "thank you" bonus for all referrers.

5. How to qualify: Any contestant who refers at least three (3) new referrals to All-Star Sports Academy during the contest period will be qualified to win the contest. Simply be sure each referral is registered in the "Send Me to Florida Referral Contest" journal by an All-Star employee. That's it!

6. Referred persons will be granted one (1) trial week, credited to the person whose name is on the card which is returned to All-Star Sports Academy. After the trial period is complete, the referred person will have until February 7th, 2009 to complete enrollment, whether online or via physical enrollment and payment.

7. Referrals will be credited to the individual whose name is on the card presented by the referred person. All-Star Sports Academy reserves the right to split referrals or otherwise resolve disputes over duplicate cards or referrals. In the event of a tie in new enrollments, the contestant with the higher number of total referrals will be the winner.

8. Contest will be based on individual referrals only. Family members' referrals will not be combined to increase score.

9. One prize will be awarded in each of two (2) categories: Youth Athlete League and Adult or Parent League. Youth Athlete League is for those enrolled in FitKidz!, Small Group Training or Team Training. Adult or Parent League is for parents of those in the Youth Athletic League or those enrolled in Power Fitness Camp for Women.

So...do YOU want to be the one saying "I'm going to Disney World?" If you're already a member of our community, just ask how! We'll get you set up to go!

If you're not enrolled with us now, just go to http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com and click on "Free Trial Membership" to get started!

Get in the game! Get your friends and teammates in it! Get your family to Florida!!

Before you join a "health club" for New Year's...

2008-12-18T05:19:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick thought about "Health Clubs."

These businesses don't seem to have to deliver on what they claim to be providing customers. One industry insider says these "health clubs" have the worst business model ever!

Each January, millions of Americans slog into these clubs to fulfill "resolutions." That's when the trouble starts!

These "resolutionaries," as we call them, get pounced on by the monthly billing predators! "Health Club" sales reps, many of whom (not all!) are about as "professional" as drive-by shooters, take advantage of these good people and their desire for change!

If you've been on the receiving end of this treatment, you know what I mean. Feigned sincerity, "gotcha" questions and smoke-and-mirrors presentations are followed by steamrolling and cornering sales tactics, designed to "overcome your objections."

Wait! Didn't you go in there with the intention of determining if it was the right place for you to help fulfill your resolution? And the "health club" salesclown felt it necessary to run you over and "overcome your objections?"

Just to add insult to injury, after you do sign up (usually because it's less painful than fighting your way out of the salesclown's office), their "system" fails you miserably. Here's where the "worst business model ever" kicks in!

Go to a fast-food joint with money, you get food, right? Ok, junk food, but you still get what you expected, right? They have all intentions of providing it to you in exchange for your hard earned cash. If you don't get your food, you'll get your money back.

Go to a used car dealership, same thing. You'll get what you came in for - a car. If not, you're very unlikely to not have your money and not have a car when you're done!

Go to a "health club" with money, you'll get health and wellness, right? WRONG!

At "health clubs," if you reach your fitness goals (the very things for which you joined the club in the first place) you'll be part of a very exclusive group.

According to "health club" industry groups, only about 10% of all people who join a "health club" EVER reach their fitness goals there!
Check out these stats:Of January joiners:
25% - NEVER come back after their initial visit and enrollment (great job by the salesclown and the club, huh?)
50% - will stop coming in after February 15th.
63% - will stop coming in by March 15th.
70% - will have stopped coming in by April 15th.

Oddly enough, virtually all of these people will continue to be billed monthly, and keep paying the "health club" that failed them in the first place! So you don't get what you wanted and paid for, but you keep paying for it anyway!

To us, this is unreasonable and unethical. That's why we offer a free trial membership for any of our programs!

Visit us here: http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com and see which programs meet your needs. We'll let you try it out for a week, no obligation, no strings!

We work very hard to make sure you want to come back, and we'll help you reach your goals! So you can spend $19.99 to $59 amonth or more and not get results but keep paying, or you can invest a little more, have total control over your investment, and get the results you want!

The choice is yours. We have a funny feeling we'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Don't get tripped up by Holiday "treats!"

2008-12-17T04:42:00.000-05:00

To follow up on a theme...

It's easy to stuff yourself full of delicious holiday treats without even realizing it! There you are at a party or event, chatting away or hanging out with friends and just nibbling away.

They're just little finger foods...chips and dips, shrimp, those little hot dogs wrapped in dough, egg rolls, etc. They don't really have a lot of extra calories, do they?

ONE hot dog or ONE egg roll or ONE shrimp stuffed whatchamacallit probably wouldn't add a Santa sack to your belly or thighs, so go ahead, have just one. I dare you. In fact, I'll breach etiquette here and TRIPLE DOG DARE YOU!

Let's face it, nobody has just one fatty, high calorie delicious and satisfying holiday snack treat when they're presented! So here's a couple "tricks" to use so you don't end up "treating" yourself to unwanted pound this Holiday Season:

Never go out hungry! - Many of us don't eat enough during the day, or in the hours leading up to a party or event because we're "saving up" our calories for the food that will be served. Eat normally throughout the day. If it's been several hours since you last ate, and you're getting ready to go out, have a small snack of veggies or even some whole grain crackers, with some water. Even a small snack will help tame the ravenous hunger beast you would otherwise take to the party!
Start slow! - Too often, people get to a party and dive right in to the food! Start slow, say hello to everyone and get something to drink, like seltzer water, ginger ale or (if you must) diet soda. The carbonation will partly fill your stomach. Then take a small serving of appetizers or food. After you finish that, reassess how hungry you really are!
Eat natural! - If you choose foods that are as close to natural as possible, chances are good you'll be eating things that, at the least, have vegetables or fruits as ingredients! This is definitely better than, say, processed "Mexican" appys or processed meat snacks. This is no guarantee, of course, just a good general idea!
Enjoy the company! - Focus on enjoying the people around you, and let the food and drink be an accessory. The Holidays are a time for us to appreciate the people in our lives (yes, even THOSE people, whoever they are!) Take part in those lively conversations! Play games! Talk about the people who can't be there. Of course, during this fun, enjoy some good food and drink...wisely and responsibly!

Do you have a "Holiday Food Survival Technique" of your own? One you heard somewhere that really works? By all means, add it below in the comments section!

The Holidays are also a great time to give yourself the gift of fitness! We'll help!

Go here: A Free Week of Fitness for the Holidays! We'll give you a week in any of our outstanding programs. Note that this is for those who aren't there already...our clients already get the best in fitness from us!

We'll See YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Gremlins ate our links

2008-12-16T12:02:00.002-05:00

I don't know what happened.

Apparently, the grinch, or maybe some gremlins ate
several links from yesterday's newsletter.

Thanks to those of you who emailed to tell us.

The proper parties have been tracked down and flogged
with a wet noodle.

Here are those links again, fixed and de-gremlined:
Prograde Workout - The post-workout shake for athletes
and everyone else

Prograde Cravers - Nutritional snack bars

Prograde Lean - Meal replacement shake for those seeking to
reduce body fat and build lean muscle.

PS...The Holiday Specials for FitKidz! Sports Fitness and Small Group Training
have been extended through the end of 2008!! Take advantage now and give your
kids and athletes the gift of awesome fitness and performance!

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Festivus from All-Star Sports Academy!

The most dangerous time of the year?

2008-12-15T21:26:00.002-05:00

The holiday season is one of the most festive times of year, and one of the most dangerous, too.

Dangerous, that is, if you're trying to improve your athletic performance, lose body fat and get lean,
or simply maintain your current weight, body fat and/or fitness levels!

It's not just the delicious foods and beverages that can doom you, however. Sometimes it's as simple
as falling out of routine. For many, the safety of maintaining an exercise and eating schedule is lost
during this time. Here are a few suggestions that may help keep you on track:

Think about your holiday schedule ahead of time, and make adjustments accordingly. If you
normally work out in the evening, think about a temporary time change on the days you have
events to attend. This may seem like a "no-brainer," but if you don't think it through, you may
find yourself missing workouts. Plan your workouts, then "work your plan" to get them in, and
you'll feel great throughout the Holidays!
Get efficient about your workouts! Instead of spending 90 minutes or more in the gym, find a
workout that gets you the functional resistance training, cardio training, ab and core training
and flexibility training you'd like to get from your overly long gym workouts, but in under 60
minutes start-to-finish! Suggestion: try an integrated workout like Small Group Training if
you're an athlete 13+ years old, or Power Fitness Camp for Women if you're a woman/mom! You
can get a one week trial membership for any of All-Star Sports Academy's great programs here:
All-Star Trial Membership! There are absolutely no tricks, no obligations and no strings!
We'll let you come in and try us out for a whole week!
Walk 20 a day! Minutes, not miles! All too often, we work out to eat. You see this every year
on Thanksgiving morning. People stuffed into gyms, walking and jogging on treadmills, flying
on ellipticals and packing the "group fitness" studio! Not because it's part of their plan; they
do it because they figure they can "pre-burn" the calories they're going to pour in later that day!
Instead of a sure-fire formula for failure, simply add 20 minutes of walking each day. If you're an
athlete in training, try jogging those 20 minutes.

Try these simple things and we're sure you'll get through the Holiday Season with a lot less stress and a
lot more fitness success! Who knows, you may even give yourself a new gift of fitness!

Go ahead, get a one week trial on us! Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah and even Happy Festivus!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Phil, Brian and Sean
All-Star Sports Academy
http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com
http://www.youtube.com/allstarsportsacademy

Prograde Nutrition - You can still give yourself or someone you love the gift of great nutrition! Athletes
will love Prograde Workout, the best post-workout meal replacement on the market! Trying to shed unwanted
pounds and body fat? Try Prograde Lean! And of course, everyone loves Cravers Nutrition Snacks!

Train with your friends, go to Florida on All-Star!!

2008-12-10T17:50:00.006-05:00

Starting December 15th, you'll have the chance to help your friends train smarter and get better results...and win hotel accomodations in Florida on us!!

Look for all the details right here tomorrow, but for now, here's a little teaser:

So...are you in the game or not?

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Santa says "don't be naughty..."

2008-12-08T18:42:00.008-05:00

Pretty soon, it'll be Winter Break for all those kids we sent off to college this year.

At college, they have their coaches and trainers to lead them through the process. At more than one college, they are using exercises and programs written by All-Star Sports Academy to prepare for their upcoming campaigns! Not so much here at home. Until now!

You see, Santa Claus called us and said "why don't you fellas set up a Sports Fitness Training Program for all the college athletes who've been good boys and girls, working soooo hard at school! They're all on my "Nice" list, and I wouldn't want them (or you, All-Star) to end up on the "Naughty" list. But that's what will happen if they spend Winter Break sitting around eating Mom's cooking and drinking egg nog!"

Who are we to argue with Santa?!? We don't want coal in our stockings! So here's our holiday gift to you:College Winter Break Small Group Training. Hint - find Bluto from "Animal House!"

We've arranged for college-aged athletes to be able to get great Sports Fitness Training during their Winter Break right here at All-Star Sports Academy...and we're going to make it available for a few bux a day! Come in as often as you'd like and work with our professional trainers in Small Group Training for only $149! Whether you're on break for 4 weeks, 6 weeks or longer, the enrollment fee is the same, $149!

This is no gym membership where you have to put up with a drop-off in the quality of your Sports Fitness Training and Preparation. This is the real, deal: straight up training that works! Every session is run by one of our trainers and gets you in and out in about an hour! So there's still time for friends and holiday cheer!

This is the place to start: College Winter Break Small Group Training - and look for Bluto!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

A very, very merry offer!

2008-12-02T20:27:00.004-05:00

Until December 15th!

Save a very merry $200 on a three month enrollment
in Small Group Training!*

Enroll your 13-18 year old athlete in the most effective and results-oriented Sports Fitness Program available, and your first month enrollment will be an unbelievable $99!

Your 2nd and 3rd months will be only $149 a month! That's a $200 savings over the usual 3 month enrollment!*

But just like Santa's gone after Christmas Eve,
this special is gone on December 16th!

So go visit us at Small Group Sports Fitness Training
to find out more and get enrolled!

This is a Holiday Bonanza, just when everyone needs one!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

The Clock is Ticking...

2008-12-01T14:43:00.005-05:00

I had the chance to watch some football over the weekend.
I noticed something interesting.

It seems that the youth obesity problem in America is finally
becoming a national issue! The NFL is running spots for its'
program to encourage kids to play at least 60 minutes a day.
Public service spots are showing up. There's even a "nutritional
weight loss" program (you know a d-i-e-t) for kids!

I'm sure the NFL has good intentions, but has Peyton Manning
and company shown up at your kids' school yet? If he does,
what happens when he leaves? What kind of habits will your
kids return to then?

Don't even get me started on "diets" for kids! The ad I saw was for
the same kind of processed, pre-packaged robotic shove-it-in-
and-never-think nonsense that doesn't work for anyone else!

Kids need to play. At least 60 minutes a day, preferably more!
They need to run, jump, crawl, skip, throw, push, pull, hop, move
stuff, cooperate, compete and problem-solve on the fly!

Kids also need to eat. They need to eat real food! The trick is
getting them to make better choices, and to learn to like the real,
healthy, delicious foods that will make them strong and vibrant!

All-Star Sports Academy is dedicated to the health and fitness
of kids! Athletes, bookworms and everyone in between! Our
FitKidz! Fitness and Wellness Program for kids is growing by
the day!

We're working hard to reverse the trend in America that will
have 50% of our kids overweight by 2010, and will result in this
being the first generation of kids who will not outlive their parents!

Right now, we're making it easier to get your kids into the best
functional fitness program for kids available anywhere. Until
December 15th, we're giving you the first month of your child's
enrollment for a measly $39, and the next 2 at only $59!
Just visit: FitKidz! Fitness for Kidz!

You'll find lots of information about the program, and you can
enroll your kids in minutes!

So come on, let's get your kids, and America's kids, moving, having
fun, and on track to a long, healthy life! Together we can turn a
tragic trend into an incredible and exciting future!

Get on over to FitKidz! Fitness for Kidz! and get the party started!

Your kids are counting on you!

Leadership and responsibility

2008-11-17T21:21:00.004-05:00

The captain of a local high school sports team here walked into the locker room on the first day of tryouts at the crack of dawn and made a disturbing announcement.

Had someone died? Was a teammate injured in a car accident or sports-related incident?

No. His important announcement? "I don't want to be here. I'm hung over."

Hung over. One of the captains of the team.

A senior...in high school!

Now, I'm not going to preach about the dangers of teenage drinking, or the long term effects of alcohol on health and sports performance.

What matters here is that this clown threw his pre-tryout night drinking binge and resultant hangover out there like a badge of honor.

Something of which to be proud.

Something, perhaps, that other team members, underclassmen and future captains should aspire to achieve.

A tryout hangover!

Here's what I think.

Strip him of his captaincy. Now. Yesterday. Publicly.

Then cut him. Turn him loose...ban him from the locker room and the arena.

Make it known that any team member associating with him will be benched. Maybe even cut.

Set an example for the rest of the team and the school community that this kind of crap is intolerable.

Set the tone for the future. A future without that kind of idiotic behavior.

Otherwise, your team gets to try and play in a present tainted by the small-minded bufoonery this "captain" represents!

What kind of culture will that create? Certainly not a "Culture of Victory With Integrity!"

Every captain, every senior leader and every underclass leader has a massive responsibility to everyone who looks to them for leadership and every underclassman who will come after them.

Leadership. Creating a team culture where victorious habits, speech and actions are the only acceptable ones.

In other words, recognizing and living the phrase every team we work with hears from us repeatedly:
What you leave behind is infinitely more important than what you accomplish here and now!

Do you agree? Then you belong here, and we'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

High Def...Sports Fitness?

2008-11-16T15:38:00.005-05:00

If you've watched even a tiny amount of television lately, you've been hearing about "High Definition," and the coming switch to HD TV signals.

What about the idea of "High Definition Sports Fitness and Preparation?"

Why not improve the quality of the "signal" being sent through your body when you want to perform at your best?

How about the idea of turning the "definition" of your athletes' sports performance and enjoyment into "high definition?"

Well, it can be done!

All-Star Sports Academy is offering you the chance to bring your sports fitness and performance into "High Definition," regardless of the chosen sport!

Simply click here for your trial membership in the "High Definition Sports Fitness and Preparation" club!

In the note area, just write "I want High Definition Sports Skills!"

We'll get you started right away on your path to playing better, and enjoying the process!

As always, you can call us at 732-597-3725!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!!

What to eat for breakfast!

2008-11-12T18:33:00.003-05:00

Athletes often ask us "What can I eat for breakfast?"

Very good question, since breakfast can make or break your nutritional day!

We're reprinting the recipes for 2 of our favorite breakfast meals.

Enjoy them!

Athlete Builder Breakfast Burrito

The way for an athlete – or anyone who wants to eat well and feed their metabolism – to start the day!

Description
This breakfast burrito has all the ingredients you need to start the day off right! Protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals are all found in this great meal! As a bonus, the “eggs and stuff” can be cooked the night before, reheated in a microwave and added to the wrap in the morning! Saves time and eliminates excuses!

Ingredients:
6 egg whites
¼ cup low fat shredded cheddar or “Taco” cheese
½ cup chopped green or red pepper
½ cup diced or chopped tomatoes
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 high fiber wrap (Mission “Carb-balance” wraps are great for this. High fiber and great taste!)

Optional (use any or all, as desired):
½ cup chopped broccoli
¼ cup chopped mushrooms
¼ cup chopped onion

Instructions:
1. Pre-heat pan over medium heat for 1 minute. Lower heat to med-low and add oil. Make sure the oil covers the bottom of the pan. (Tip: a natural cooking spray is fine for this, in place of oil)
2. Place eggs, cheese, pepper, tomatoes, and/or desired veggies into a bowl and mix together. Pour evenly into pan. Cook egg mixture either as an omelet, or scramble.
3. When cooked, place into wrap, roll up and eat.
4. Combine with a cup of fresh berries for a perfect breakfast!

Nutritional Information:
350-450 calories
3-4 g total fat (<1 g sat)
low cholesterol
35-50 g carbohydrate
32-36 g protein
21-27 g fiber (using Mission “Carb-balance” Wraps)

Note: If you like other vegetables that seem appropriate, try them!

Here's one more, for good eating!

Amazing Breakfast Pizza

Variety is the spice of life, so why not pizza for breakfast? It’s not as if the “menu police” will come and take you, or, Heaven forbid, your breakfast away! This great recipe serves 4, so simply split it into quarter or half recipes for one or two.

Makes 4 servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes (20 minutes start to finish!)
Preparation difficulty: Easy

Ingredients:
4 ounces packed spinach (4 cups)
5 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
2 (6 inch) whole-grain pitas, cut in half horizontally
2 large plum tomatoes, sliced thin
4 large eggs
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
2 ounces reduced fat crumbled feta cheese (1/3 cup)

Option: use part skim mozzarella cheese instead!

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 450° F
2. Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large non-stick skillet or saucepan. Add spinach (in smaller batches, if needed) and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Brush the rough side of each pita round with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Place them, oiled side up, on a large baking sheet and bake until they start to brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from oven.
4. Split spinach and tomatoes evenly among pita halves. Leave an empty space in the center of each for an egg. Crack 1 egg into center of each pita. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and return to oven. Bake until yokes are lightly set, about 8-10 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese and continue to bake until cheese has softened, about 2-3 minutes more.

Nutritional Information:
250 calories
13 g total fat (3.5 g sat)
21 g carbohydrate
13 g protein
3 g fiber
500 mg sodium

Now you have 2 simple ways to start the day off right!

To make sure your workouts are "working" for you, stop by All-Star Sports Academy and get your free trial to any of our great Sports Fitness programs!

We'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!!

GM, BMW and your Sports Fitness

2008-11-06T11:41:00.010-05:00

I heard on the news this morning that General Motors may be paring back its' investment in product development. You know, research on how to make their cars perform better. Apparently, it's temporary; to get through this "challenging economic time."

Wow! Really? That's the plan? To stop planning and preparing for the future? To surrender your competitive edge by giving up on improving performance?

Have you noticed that "challenging economic times" don't seem to effect Mercedes Benz and BMW the same way they do GM, Chrysler and Ford?

It's easy to dismiss this as related to the idea that high-end car makers have customers who can afford to buy the best, even if the rest of us are driving Chevy Cobalts or Dodge Neons. (Not that I have a problem with affordable American cars...I drive one!)

I think the real reason has nothing to do with the tax bracket of a typical American auto buyer. It has more to do with how the American auto makers see R & D and the learning process involved with improving car performance. As an expense...a necessary "evil."

Sounds a lot like how many athletes view their training, nutrition, rest and skills improvement!

You see, German and other foreign car makers focus on constantly improving their vehicles. Think about it...when you see a TV ad for BMW, what do they talk about? Let me help you: German Engineering! In other words, they brag about the performance results their cars get from all the research and development (learning) they do!

They pride themselves on the fact that they are constantly improving themselves!

What does this have to do with Sports Fitness Training and Preparation? You mean it's not obvious!?!

I'm glad you asked! You see, All-Star Sports Academy views Sports Fitness as an ongoing learning process. We're constantly doing "R & D" to improve the performance of our athletes.

The key to successful Sports Fitness Preparation is to teach, not train! Athletes who (like BMW) learn the why of their program as well as the how, will enjoy the process more, and get a far better result than those who act like GM and just keep trying to put out the product!

All-Star Sports Academy does the research and develops the programs to teach:

Injury prevention
Speed and Agility
Athletic Strength and Power
Flexibility
Movement patterns
Joint Stability, Mobility and Performance
Explosiveness and Quickness
Balance and Coordination
The "Mental Game"
Nutrition, Rest and Regeneration

If we encounter "challenging economic times," it won't change a thing! We'll still be learning, still be working to improve our programs, and still be seeking the best solutions to your Sports Fitness challenges!

And our athletes? Well, you'll know them when you see them. They'll be the ones performing consistently at the top of their game...and responding to all the "challenging times" by succeeding!

Oh yeah...and loving every minute of the journey!

Click here for your trial membership at All-Star Sports Academy:

And...we'll see YOU at All-Star Sports Academy!

Get off the wobble boards!

2008-11-05T17:39:00.007-05:00

I walk into gyms and training centers all the time and see it.

"Circus act training." "Daredevil training." Stupid trainer tricks.

Trainers and fitness "professionals" pushing their athletes, and even little old ladies to perform ridiculous stunts under the guise of "functional training."

Just because the training center has wobble boards, bosu balls, stability balls, Airex foam pads and inflatable rubber discs doesn't mean every client has to use them all in every workout.

Most clients are inherently not ready for single leg dumbbell clean and press on a bosu ball.

In fact, most clients can barely sit still on a bosu ball or stand on one leg without stability issues for more than 30 seconds! Forget the dumbbell clean and press!

In fact, here's an example of a balance and stability exercise we use to rapidly develop this incredibly important athletic skill:

SL Kettlebell Crossover Romanian Dead Lift

It's simple, but not easy to perform, and it relies on the most important tool an athlete must master: the neuromuscular system!

Did you realize that use of all those other "functional training tools" could actually INCREASE your risk of injury while they DECREASE your athletic fitness?

Don't get me wrong. utilizing unstable surfaces or destabilizing movements and positions is not necessarily bad. In fact using stability balls, rocker boards and other stability-challenging tools can be a "multiplier" in your athletic fitness training.

What makes the difference in whether stability tools help or hurt?

Simple: a proper understanding of when they should be introduced into a program, how to progress the athlete through the stages of stabilization training and how to avoid unnecessary risks in training stability.

Not sure how to incorporate stabilization training into your sports fitness program? Let us help you!

Click here:

We're here and ready to help you explode your sports fitness and performance!

Fear and Hope for Our Kids' Future!

2008-11-03T18:05:00.006-05:00

This article is reprinted from the USA Today Monday, November 3, 2008.

It will shock and frighten you...but we have to fight back, for our kids! This is a "war" we as a nation SIMPLY MUST WIN!

Read on after the article to see how All-Star Sports Academy intends to help you win!

Number of kids on medication jumps alarmingly

Most of the illnesses related to obesity

By Liz Szabo
USA TODAY

The number of children who take medication for chronic diseases has jumped dramatically, another troubling sign that many of the youngest Americans are struggling with obesity, doctors say.

The number of children who take pills for type 2 diabetes - the kind that's closely linked to obesity - more than doubled from 2002 to 2005, to a rate of six out of 10,000 children. That suggests that at least 23,000 privately insured children in the USA are now taking diabetes medications, according to authors of the new study in today's Pediatrics.

Doctors also saw big increases in prescriptions for high cholesterol, asthma and attention deficit and hyperactivity. There was smaller growth for drugs for depression and high blood pressure.

"We've got a lot of sick children," says author Emily Cox, senior director of research with Express Scripts, which administers drug benefit programs for private insurance plans. "What we've been seeing in adults, we're also now seeing in kids."

Type 2 diabetes was once known as adult-onset. But Cox says her records show kids as young as 5 being treated with prescription diabetes drugs.

Cox based her study on prescription records of nearly 4 million children a year, ages 5 to 19, covered by Express Scripts. She says her findings may not apply to the 40% of children who are uninsured or covered by government health plans.

Unless these children make major changes - such as eating healthier and exercising more - they could be facing a lifetime of illness, Cox says.

"These are not antibiotics that they take for seven to 10 days," Cox says. "These are drugs that many are taking for the rest of their lives."

Cox couldn't explain one surprising finding: Most of the increase in drugs for diabetes, attention deficit/hyperactivity and depression was seen in girls. The gender gap was most striking in diabetes: While the number of boys taking medication grew by 39%, the number of girls using them climbed by 147%, Cox found.

So how are we going to help in the fight against childhood obesity and all the diseases, dangers and risks to our kids that comes with it?

The answer is simple:
All-Star Sports Academy's revolutionary new fitness and wellness program made just for KIDZ!

If you're thinking "My kids hate to 'work out,'" YOU'RE RIGHT! Kids love to play games, be challenged, cooperate and compete, however, and that's what FitKidz is all about!

If you're thinking "My kids are way too athletic for something like this," YOU'RE WRONG! Sports and athletic movement is all about the very things we teach and reinforce at FitKidz sessions.

Do kids run, jump, crawl, hop, race, skip, throw, catch, push, pull, get on the floor or ground and get up again, carry things or any combination of these? OF COURSE!

Do these things happen in sports? OF COURSE!

Will your kids benefit from the FitKidz Fitness and Wellness for Kidz Program?

OF COURSE THEY WILL!!

So what are you waiting for? Did you know that November is FitKidz Preview Month? You can enroll your kids in a trial week of FitKidz Sports Fitness and Wellness FOR FREE!!

Will they like it? How about this...WE GUARANTEE IT!!

Call us today at 732-597-3725 and enroll your kids for their preview month trial...you have absolutely nothing to lose.

Your kids, on the other hand, may have everything to lose...or gain!

Reduce Breast Cancer Risk by 35%!

2008-10-28T05:44:00.000-04:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

We all know this. We've seen the "Pink" campaigns and products.

But did you know that all the pink blenders and pink blowdryers and pink pajamas in the world won't lower the risk of breast cancer as well as something simpler and more elemental.

Exercise!

That's right...as little as 3-4 hours of moderate to strenuous exercise a week will reduce the risk of breast cancer by up to 35%!

How might you get 3 hours of moderate to strenuous exercise a week without boring yourself to tears, you ask?

Try Power Fitness Camp for Women!

That's right...at Power Fitness Camp for Women, you'll get all the important aspects of fitness in one fun, challenging workout!!

So fight breast cancer (and excess body fat!) Check it out today, and try it risk-free!

For more information about the studies showing the link between increased exercise and reduced breast cancer risk, try this article:
http://www.aphroditewomenshealth.com/news/20030908224352_health_news.shtml

or this one:
http://www.usc.edu/uscnews/stories/13486.html

Exercise and live longer!!!

See you at All-Star Sports Academy!

Teacher's Convention Basketball Camp!

2008-10-27T06:15:00.002-04:00

All-Star Sports Academy&

Jersey Shore Hurricanes Basketball

present

2008 Teacher's Convention Drillz and Skillz Basketball Speed, Agility and Skills Camp!

November 6th & 7th, 2008, 9 AM to 1 PM at the North Dover Elementary School Gym!

Camp Fee only $75.00! (Current All-Star Sports Academy Athletes receive a 50% rebate - email us for details!)

In this unique, fun and highly effective 2 day camp:

You'll discover the fastest way to dramatically improve your vertical leap!

You'll uncover the keys to electrifying court speed!

You'll find out how the most accurate shooters in the game got that way!

You'll unearth the secrets to dominating "in the paint!"

You'll find out how you can become a slippery and elusive "ball thief!"

You'll expose the secrets of the best rebounders in the game!

You'll (finally) have the simplest and most effective injury prevention secrets known to the basketball world revealed to you!

Note!! Space in this camp is strictly limited!! If you want to become a game-changing player, you need to be here!!

Call 732-597-3725 to register or go to: http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/basketball and follow the link to this Camp!!

3 Giant Reasons They Fail

2008-10-21T05:45:00.006-04:00

Before I begin, I just want to say a heartfelt "Thank You" to all the athletes,kids, parents and coaches who have helped us grow and succeed as we have, in such a short time. We owe it all to you, and promise never to forget that!

Recently, the local franchise of Velocity Sports failed. Closed their doors and left clients cold. Yesterday, I read in our local paper that a well-known and respected Monmouth County trainer closed his training center and went to work for a gym. This gym says it's a "performance center, but admits it can't stay open without member dues from their "McFitness" side. Shouldn't performance centers focus on, well, performance?

In both cases, "the economy" took the blame. I've always believed that if you help people succeed and make progress, you will always outlast economic downturns.

There are 3 simple reasons why gym-McFitness-healthclubs-performancecenters-sportsfitnesscenters fail.

1. They focus on "training." I know a strength coach locally who is essentially a power lifting coach who applies that style to "solve" every performance problem in every sport.

Need more speed? Bigger squats and bench presses!

Need better direction changes? Bigger squats and bench presses!

Need more velocity on your shots, your pitches or your swing? Bigger squats and bench presses!

Do you see the problem here? The guy's a solid powerlifting coach, with trophies to prove it. Big deal! To the man whose only tool is a hammer, everything looks like a nail!

It's simple...don't "train"...teach, teach, teach!!

What does that? Simple: start younger, introduce critically important movement concepts and techniques and continue to reinforce them as the children get older.

Chain facilities and "strength coaches" take kids as young as 10 or 12 and have them working in "gym science" workouts, focusing on sets, reps and how much weight they move! These kids are working in maximal lift and absolute strength programs! My goodness!! Are they TRYING to get these kids hurt early?

This is not only a recipe for failure, it's the perfect road to sports burnout and repetitve injury patterns! Teach and reinforce movement, THEN you can "load" those well-performed movements later!

2. There's no "play" in their "training programs!" - Kids want to play! That's why they love sports, remember??

Organized sports have replaced the "free play" most of us enjoyed as kids. My colleague, Brian Grasso, CEO of the Int'l Youth Conditioning Assoc., said about play recently:

"I used to free play everyday of my life. Ride my bike to the park...Play baseball... Climb trees... Jump rope...Race my friends.

This was a normal 'day-in-the-life' for folks my age and older when we were kids.

And the effects were perfect.

Everything I just mentioned amounts to multi-lateral development.

Another way of saying that is amassing physical intelligence...

It's through this kind of free play experience that kids develop quality coordination, mobility & systemic strength.

But you know what, Phil, kids don't free play anymore.

They don't enjoy good quality PE classes anymore either.

And because of that, obesity is skyrocketing and injury rates in youth sports are going through the roof.

Without the intervention of high quality long-term development systems, where exactly are kids today going to receive the type of physical stimulus they need?"

You know what? I couldn't say it better myself! If you've ever watched an All-Star Sports Academy "training session," you've seen kids playing. You've seen athletes playing.

You've also seen them working their tails off and improving multi-directional movement patterns, multi-planar speed, power, agility, balance, coordination, endurance and strength. Real, whole body, sports strength!

That's because we remember that play is the reason their here! They want to play better! They want to play longer and healthier! Which brings me to reason #3 for the failure of "sports fitness" chains and trainers...

3. No return on parental investment! - Parents will do without a lot of things in order to give their kids the things they (parents) perceive to be important.

Some youth fitness professionals recognize this and respect it. All-Star Sports Academy is in that category.

Others see it as leverage to separate the parents from their money, using the kids as the lever. I know it sounds harsh, but that's the way I see it.

The failing sports fitness trainers wave their "success stories" around as if to say "if your kid doesn't train here, they'll never succeed like this or they'll wind up hurt...blahblahblah!"

Do you know what our "secret" is? We celebrate...and suffer with our athletes! When athletes and kids that we work with do well, we celebrate it with them! When things don't go so well, we let them know we feel it, too, and we try to help in any way we can.

They know we care, and they know we work for them. So do the parents we work with.

We recognize that many sports training centers either see themselves as a "luxury" and price their programs that way, then act as if their services are indispensable! They are completely clueless as to the economic challenges facing families, even when the economy is in excellent health!

We just won't do that! First, we want to bring our experience, programs and knowledge to as many kids as we can. To do that, Mom & Dad have to be able to fit it in the budget!

Second, we're just not that arrogant. We all have to look at ourselves in the mirror each day!

Parents, athletes and coaches are the reasons we exist! Without them, and without the support, feedback and ideas they provide us, we couldn't learn, grow and continue to provide the kind of high-quality, high return youth and sports fitness and skills training programs we provide!

The now-closed "sports fitness centers?" Well, after a conversation with the (soon to be former) owner of the chain franchise, and my experience in talking with other "strength coaches" and trainers...Let's just say that some who should "get it"...really don't!

Of course, now...some never will, some will go to work for others who don't get it and others...well maybe they'll pay attention to the things and people who really matter now...

Would you like a great youth fitness or sports fitness experience for you kids?

Give us a call at 732-597-3725 and find out what we have to offer. Or visit us on the web at:http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com/ - the site's not quite done yet, but you'll still find some good stuff there!

All-Star Sports Academy Chatter

(Little) Girls and Kettlebells!

Twinkies, the Ultimate Fitness Food ?!?

Cloud Circuits...gotta love 'em

One "tiny" factor in YOUR energy levels

Getting Enough Fruits and Veggies? This Can Help!

Chocolatey Goodness...and GOOD FOR YOU!!

"Sound Bite" Training is hurting our youth athletes

Congressional knuckleheads introduce bill to "solve" a problem they helped create

Is Cheerleading the Most Hazardous of All Sports?

Can you do this? KB SB Crunch Press

SL Squat and Roll

Can YOU do THIS?Deceleration skills and the ability to effectively break falls is essential to preventing injuries for athletes.

Here's a great core exercise that emphasizes glute strength/stability and both deceleration skills and ability to break your fall.If you can't do this at least this well, we'll help!http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Goings-on April 26, 2010

More fun and work(??) at All-Star Sports Academy!Want to be a better athlete? Get some here!http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Quick look April 22-23

DODGEBALL!! Again!

Check it out on Facebook: http://budurl.com/hurricanedodgeball Contact us and we'll email the registration form to you!

We'll see YOU at the Athlete Underground for Dodgeball!

A look at April 21 at All-Star

A quick look at some of todays workouts!

Enjoy!

Become a "fan" http://budurl.com/allstarfacebook

Dave Mitchell Memorial Dodgeball Tournament

Frankie Edgar – The Champ is Here

Peanut Butter Banana Breakfast Shake (Easy Recipe)

TRHC Bantam B team Wins Districts!

Weird foods with great nutritional power!

Protein Packed Iced Rasberry Mocha

Put 4 Inches on your vertical in 40 seconds!

Blood, Sweat and Cheers

Metabolism and Making it Work For Athletes

There's a DRAGON in the house!

Beat Swine Flu...

Friday Round Up

First Step to a Faster 40

Speed, Power and Endurance...gotta have 'em!

Joint by Joint

Coach off the excess weight

What a Week!

"Game of Inches"

One of the essentials

Want better workouts (and results?)

A fresh approach...

Big squats and crappy speed

Watch out for these two

Hockey players...a scholarship just for you...

Old gloves, bats, cleats never die

It Isn't Every Day..

Are you THIS person?

Team Training

Sorry? Not good enough!

Youth Baseball "Crash Course"

Raging on!!

Playing on a different stage

Green Foods...you have the power!

Youth Fitness: Beware the Rise of the Machines!

And the Champion is...

Train to play to win!

It's BCS Time...let the Confusion Reign!

Happy New Year From All-Star!!

It's Cold Out....Go Out and Exercise!

Happy Holidays from All-Star Sports Academy!

"You're going to Disney World!"

Before you join a "health club" for New Year's...

Don't get tripped up by Holiday "treats!"

Gremlins ate our links

The most dangerous time of the year?

Train with your friends, go to Florida on All-Star!!

Santa says "don't be naughty..."

A very, very merry offer!

The Clock is Ticking...

Leadership and responsibility

High Def...Sports Fitness?

What to eat for breakfast!

GM, BMW and your Sports Fitness

Get off the wobble boards!

Fear and Hope for Our Kids' Future!

Reduce Breast Cancer Risk by 35%!

Can YOU do THIS?

Deceleration skills and the ability to effectively break falls is essential to preventing injuries for athletes.

Here's a great core exercise that emphasizes glute strength/stability and both deceleration skills and ability to break your fall.

If you can't do this at least this well, we'll help!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

More fun and work(??) at All-Star Sports Academy!

Want to be a better athlete? Get some here!

http://www.allstarsportsacademynj.com

Check it out on Facebook: http://budurl.com/hurricanedodgeball

Contact us and we'll email the registration form to you!