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Review and Giveaway: Prescriptive Stretching Book

July 23, 2011 By

Perpetual Lower Back Pain is a pain!
Since the birth of my eldest son  in 1998, I’ve suffered of frequent lower back due to several factors.  I was taught by a good friend who does Pilates how to stretch properly and daily to help keep my back from aching so much.  This has never kept me away from having to take over the counter pain meds because there are some days, my back hurts way too much.  With an active life that we lead running after five kids going three different  directions, it is vital for me to be able to keep on trucking.  This is why I was so excited to review this book about stretching.  I’ve read others and was expecting some redundancy but much to my surprise it wasn’t.  First (before reading the book), I read up on the author:

Kristian Berg is a doctor of naprapathy, a medical therapy that focuses on manual manipulation and stretching of the spine and connective tissues. He has managed his own clinic in Stockholm, Sweden, since 1988. Berg participates annually in international training courses in dissection, anatomy, and manipulative techniques. At his clinic he has shown more than 30,000 patients the importance of stretching and muscular balance for overall health. Berg is also the principal at the Personal Training School and a lecturer in anatomy at the Scandinavian College of Naprapathic Manual Medicine in Stockholm. He is a highly regarded speaker on stretching and athletic training in Sweden and throughout Europe.

Before becoming a naprapath, Berg was a nationally ranked gymnast and a talented junior tennis player. More recently, he has competed as a multisport athlete and has climbed Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America. Berg currently resides in Svartsjo, Sweden.

This frightened me a little because I thought the book would be totally over my head so I thumbed through the pages and much to my surprise it was very user friendly.  I really love the illustrations because not only do they demonstrate the stretch positions but also give you a biology lesson on the muscles and how they will be moved and positioned with each stretch.  I love how he takes you step by step and not only gives you a solution to the pain but also the possible cause for the pain.  Prescriptive Stretching presents detailed visual instruction on 40 stretches using full-color anatomical illustrations to demonstrate exactly how each stretch targets a specific muscle.Then states specific remedies for these, and when there is more than one he also lists those.  Then there are the wonderful illustrations that are black and white except for the muscles that are colorful.  Here are two examples, one  is on a Kink in your Neck:
The other one Tennis Elbow (which my husband has used):
Company’s Product Description
Elite athletes have long relied on personalized stretching programs to improve flexibility and prevent injury. What you might not know is that many of those targeted stretches have a much broader application, one that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine: pain relief.Prescriptive Stretching features full-color anatomical illustrations and step-by-step instructions for 40 of the most effective stretches to eliminate pain, alleviate muscle soreness, improve balance and flexibility, and prevent common injuries. In addition, you’ll find sample stretching programs that you can follow as is or personalize to meet your body’s needs.Best of all, Prescriptive Stretching shows you how to quickly assess your pain and identify the stretches to reduce discomfort. Specifically, you’ll find recommendations for these common ailments:- Headache
- Back pain
- Neck stiffness
- Shoulder soreness
- Golfer’s elbow
- Tennis elbow
- Runner’s kneeWhether you’re looking to increase range of motion or simply eliminate muscle pain and discomfort, Prescriptive Stretching has you covered. Comprehensive yet easy to use, it’s the guide you’ll turn to again and again.

The author stresses the importance of daily stretching and stretching corectly to achieve maximum movement of the body.  The method of stretching which the author uses is called Proprioceptive Muscular Facilitation, or PNF which is also known as “contract-release”.  This method, PNF, involves stretching the muscle to the end point, relaxing, then tightening the muscle without moving, relaxing again, and then stretching towards a new end point, repeating several times.  This approach allows for a better range of motion and to help the muscles.

It is really a great book to have handy at my house.  I’ve been using their pages on the lower back for two weeks now and I am basically pain free…actually, it’s been three full days with no Advil when I wake up in the mornings!  YAHOO!!!  :)  I love this book…

Here’s the Table of Contents:

Introduction

Muscles and Bones of the Human Body
Stretching Fundamentals
Targeted Stretches
Programs for Pain Relief
Assessing Flexibility and Muscle Balance
Stretch Index
References
About the Author
Here are two great articles by this same author:
Interested in buying the book?  Please visit Human Kinetics’s webpage.
Want to win a book?  One lucky 3 Boys and a Dog reader will get a chance to win a book of your own (worth $19.95):

REQUIRED COMMENT: Visit the Prescriptive Stretching’s info page, look around, then come back and tell me why this book would come in handy for you or someone you know.

BONUS #1: Follow @momof3boys3702 on Twitter and RT this contest. The easiest way to retweet is to simply click the green ReTweet on the top right of this post. YOU MAY TWEET ONCE DAILY

BONUS #2: Like 3 Boys and a Dog on FaceBook then share this post by clicking the FaceBook share button at the bottom of this post.

Other bonus entries:

#1. Spread the word about this review by: email, forums, blogging, Digg, or putting the link in a meme. (one entry per thing done)

#2. Follow my blog.

#3. Subscribe to my RSS feed.

#4. Put my button on your blog.

#5. Leave a comment on any other post (excluding giveaways!) Be sure to leave a comment here saying which post.

#6 – Vote for me at Picket Fence by clicking the button on my sidebar. Be sure to leave a comment saying you did! YOU MAY VOTE ONCE DAILY!

CONTEST ENDS: at Midnight CST on August 3rd 2011

OPEN TO: US and Canada

*DISCLAIMER: I was sent this book for free to help facilitate my review. Any opinions stated are strictly my own.*

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Giveaway: Master Lock Speed Dial Combination Lock (4 Winners!)

June 8, 2011 By

I didn’t think a lock could be cool. I mean, it’s a lock, right? Ok, maybe could have a fun combination, but that’s about it.

Then I met the Master Lock 1500iD Speed Dial Combination Lock. And it IS cool. Both my husband and I had fun trying it out.

The patented 1500iD Speed Dial Set Your Own Combination Lock features a first of its kind design that opens on directional movements up, down, left and right, instead of the traditional rotary dial. The lock is faster to open than traditional locks, more secure and customizable. Users can create their own easy to remember, resettable combination consisting of any number of movements in any sequence. For users who prefer more traditional methods of recalling their combination, the lock includes adhesive letters, numbers, colors, shapes and symbols that can be applied over the lock’s directional arrows.

That’s right. You don’t have to memorize a weird number code or remember a locker combination anymore. This lock is kind of like a video game – you set your combination to any directional pattern you want – up, up, down or down, right, left, up, up, up – the combinations are endless.

The center slides easily from one direction to the next. It was fun to play with the patterns of the combination while I tried it out.

Sliding it "up"

The lock has the same strength Master Lock is known for, with anti-shim technology that keeps it strong and secure. It’s available in several different bright colors, which I think adds to the fun.

It’s pretty easy to reset the code to a new pattern. The tough thing for me was coming up with codes. With a traditional dial lock, you can set a number that has significance to you, which makes it easy to remember, but also easy for other people to guess the combination.

Trying to keep my cookies safe

To come up with a code for this lock, I thought about things I do every day. I used my commute to work to come up with the directions – up for North, left for West, and right for East. I drive the same route every day, so I know that I’ll remember the pattern when it comes time to open my lock.

Buy It

1500iD Speed Dial Set-Your-Own Combination Lock is available at retailers nationwide with suggested retail prices of $8.99

Win It

FOUR lucky readers will each win a Master Lock 1500i Speed Dial lock of their own!

REQUIRED COMMENT: Check out Master Lock, look around, then come back and tell me two retailers that sell their productes.

BONUS #1: Follow @momof3boys3702 on Twitter and RT this contest. The easiest way to retweet is to simply click the green ReTweet on the top right of this post. YOU MAY TWEET ONCE DAILY

BONUS #2: Like Master Lock and 3 Boys and a Dog on FaceBook then share this post by clicking the FaceBook share button at the bottom of this post.
Other bonus entries:
  • #1. Spread the word about this review by: email, forums, blogging, Digg, or putting the link in a meme. (one entry per thing done)
  • #2. Follow the 3 Boys and a Dog blog.
  • #3. Subscribe to the 3 Boys and a Dog RSS feed.
  • #4. Put the 3 boys and a Dog button on your blog.
  • #5. Leave a comment on any other post (excluding giveaways!) Be sure to leave a comment here saying which post.
  • #6 – Vote for 3 Boys and a Dog at Picket Fence by clicking the button on the sidebar. Be sure to leave a comment saying you did! YOU MAY VOTE ONCE DAILY!

CONTEST ENDS: at Midnight CST on 6/22/11

OPEN TO: USA and Canada

*DISCLAIMER: I was sent items by Master Lock to help facilitate my review. Any opinions stated are strictly my own.*

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GIVEAWAY: Crocs Tone Footwear (value 45 dollars)

March 16, 2011 By

Although this giveaway is now closed,  you can find great prices on Crocs by using a Macy’s coupon!

101101_crocstone_cbanner-Optimized

My husband has always been a huge Crocs fan, but I have never felt right spending the big bucks on myself, so I have always had the bobo brand ones.  Well, let me tell you!  Now, that I have had a chance to review the real ones… OH MY GOSH! I will never buy a Bobo brand of them again!  The difference in the way they feel is staggering.  Plus, with Crocs new Tone Footwear, I can wear super comfortable Crocs and get an extra “oomph” in my workout at the same time.

I was able to choose 1 of their newest Crocs Tone shoes and they are all so cute that I had a hard time with my decision.crocs2-Optimized

crocs-OptimizedMom Says: I went with the Skylar Sandal in Black and Pink and it is perfect!  I have already worn them with jeans, shorts, and even around the house in my pajama bottoms.  The bottoms of them are almost like walking on a tennis ball, so it takes wearing them for a bit to feel comfortable.  But, once you get used to them, they are fabulous.  The first time I wore them was to go Prom Dress shopping with mom and her two exchange students… I brought along a pair of tennis shoes just in case they killed my feet.  5 hours later, I was still in them!  My legs were a bit sore, but my feet felt fabulous!

For more on these, be sure to watch the informational video and the testimonial video.  Both videos are on YouTube.

To celebrate the new line, Crocs launched a Facebook application that changes the negative tone of current headlines. It’s positive, heartwarming and funny. You can check it out at: www.facebook.com/crocs

One lucky 3 Boys and a Dog reader will win their choice of the above mentioned four Tone Shoes from Crocs!

 

REQUIRED: Comment on the post with your “change the tone” submission.

BONUS #1: Follow @Crocs and @momof3boys3702 on Twitter and RT this contest. The easiest way to retweet is to simply click the green ReTweet on the top right of this post. YOU MAY TWEET ONCE DAILY

BONUS #2: Like Crocs on FaceBook and 3 Boys and a Dog on FaceBook then share this post by clicking the FaceBook share button at the bottom of this post.

Other bonus entries:

  • #1. Spread the word about this review by: email, forums, blogging, Digg, or putting the link in a meme. (one entry per thing done)
  • #2. Follow my blog.
  • #3. Subscribe to my RSS feed.
  • #4. Put my button on your blog.
  • #5. Leave a comment on any other post (excluding giveaways!) Be sure to leave a comment here saying which post.
  • #6 – Vote for me at Picket Fence by clicking the button on my sidebar. Be sure to leave a comment saying you did! YOU MAY VOTE ONCE DAILY!

CONTEST ENDS: at Midnight CST on March 30th

OPEN TO: USA and CANADA

*DISCLAIMER: I was sent items by Crocs to help facilitate my review. Any opinions stated are strictly my own.*

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Filed Under: Fashion / Style, Fitness, Giveaways, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

GIVEAWAY: Kids Teach Yoga Flying Eagle (DVD)

March 11, 2011 By

I don’t know about you, but I have days where, between kids, emails, to-do lists and meals, I’m ready to absolutely dissolve into a puddle of misery and exhaustion at the end of the day. Adults have a lot going on, and we get stressed and frazzled with all that we cram on to our plates. It may not seem like it, but our kids have a lot going on, too! Sure, they may not be juggling an entire family, but they’re figuring out life, being shuttled from soccer to tutoring to baseball and back, and still have to make sure their rooms are clean. It sounds easy looking back on it now as an adult, but as a 4-11 year old, that can be pretty daunting!

I know that when I get overwhelmed, I like to do some Yoga to get me back to center. Why wouldn’t your kids benefit from Yoga, too?! They would! Kids Teach Yoga: Flying Eagle is a 31-minute DVD that is totally kid-friendly. Led by 12 year-old Haley, a group of seven kids ranging in age from four to 11 years engage in classic breathing techniques to help get them calm and focused. At first, Emma, my almost 4-year old was hesitant, but about two minutes into the routine, she joined me on the floor and did each of the poses and holds alongside me. Some moves were funny to her, but that’s part of the joy of relaxation—getting enjoyment out of the little things in life! I loved how Haley, the leader, encouraged the other participants to lead the group themselves. It shows that even when winding down, it’s still important to share and take turns. The music is calm and not distracting at all, which is something I’ve found to be true with other Yoga DVDs. The routine incorporates teamwork, individual strength, and focusing your energy. Overall, I give it an A+!

 

Kids-Teach-Yoga---Flying-Eagle imageTHREE lucky 3 Boys and a Dog readers will win a copy of the Kids Teach Yoga: Flying Eagle DVD!

REQUIRED COMMENT: Visit Yoga Calm and take a peek around their site. Come back here and comment with something you learned about their awesome company!

BONUS #1: Follow @momof3boys3702 on Twitter and RT this contest. The easiest way to retweet is to simply click the green ReTweet on the top right of this post. YOU MAY TWEET ONCE DAILY.

BONUS #2: Like Yoga Calm and 3 Boys and a Dog on Facebook then share this post by clicking the Facebook share button at the bottom of this post.

OTHER BONUS ENTRIES:

  • Spread the word about this review by: email, forums, blogging, Digg, or putting the link in a meme. (one entry per thing done)
  • Follow my blog.
  • Subscribe to my RSS feed.
  • Put my button on your blog.
  • Leave a comment on any other post (excluding giveaways!) Be sure to leave a comment here saying which post.
  • Vote for me at Picket Fence by clicking the button on my sidebar. Be sure to leave a comment saying you did! YOU MAY VOTE ONCE DAILY!

CONTEST ENDS: at Midnight CST on March 25, 2011.
OPEN TO: US Only
*DISCLAIMER: I was sent items by Yoga Calm to help facilitate my review. Any opinions stated are
strictly my own.*

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Filed Under: Fitness, Giveaways, health, Homeschooling, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

GIVEAWAY: Jockey Sport Active Collection 3 Winners

January 18, 2011 By 386 Comments

Jockey Sport 0 00 00-01I absolutely love these pants!  The moderate workout pants are definitely my favorite in terms of fit.  In fact, I have been wearing them not to just work out in, but also as regular clothes.  I have received quite a few comments on my new pants.  I have been working out quite a bit lately and while it is much harder to lose weight this way than with weight loss pills, I feel much better!  It is a slower process, but it is more likely to stay off.

Below you will find a few details about each pant.  As I have already said, my favorite item (well, I really love the jacket, too) from the Jockey Sport Active Collection is the Modern pant, the one shown in the middle.jockey

Mom Says: I have had a fabulous time in my new clothes, but I wanted to point out on thing:  the Performance pants are much tighter, like leggings, than the other two.  I LOVE them for cardio exercises like stair climbing and running, but not so much as my everyday where. To see me modeling the Modern Pant, Pocket T, and Jacket please view the video below.  If you are reading this post via feed reader, you will need to click through to my site to see the video.

P.S.  I really hope they come out with more colors for the pants.  I really have loved wearing the Modern ones on a fairly regular basis. My 11 year old told me this outfit looks much better than my standard “uniform” of pajamas. HA!

*Special thanks to my 11 year old for holding the video camera… sorry for the jumping. He tried!

Three 3 Boys and a Dog readers will win a gift certificate to the Jockey store, good for their choice of one pair of pants! (Retail value: $62 – $67)

REQUIRED ENTRY: Visit the Jockey website, look around, then come back and tell me which pant you would choose and why.

BONUS #1: Follow @Jockey and @momof3boys3702 on Twitter and RT this contest. The easiest way to retweet is to copy and paste the following tweet – YOU MAY TWEET ONCE DAILY

Copy and paste this tweet:

I want to win these awesome #JockeySport pants from @momof3boys3702 and @Jockey

BONUS #2: Like Jockey on FaceBook and 3 Boys and a Dog on FaceBook then share this post by clicking the FaceBook share button at the bottom of this post.

Other bonus entries:

  • #1. Spread the word about this review by: email, forums, blogging, Digg, or putting the link in a meme. (one entry per thing done)
  • #2. Follow my blog.
  • #3. Subscribe to my RSS feed.
  • #4. Put my button on your blog.
  • #5. Leave a comment on any other post (excluding giveaways!) Be sure to leave a comment here saying which post.
  • #6 – Vote for me at Picket Fence by clicking the button on my sidebar. Be sure to leave a comment saying you did! YOU MAY VOTE ONCE DAILY!

CONTEST ENDS: at Midnight CST on January 25th

OPEN TO: USA only

DISCLAIMER: I am a Jockey Sport Active sponsored blogger, courtesy of Mom Spark Media.  Thoughts are my own.

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