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The Best Exercises to Increase Neck Strength and Stability

Our neck is undoubtedly one of the most important parts of our bodies. If we don’t take care of its muscles, then we are definitely edging towards the creek beyond which there is nothing but brutal pain. All of our neck muscles allow us to do some kind of activity; for example, the sternocleidomastoid and the trapezius muscles allow the movement of the head and neck in 180 degrees. Neck strength and stability are keys to proper posture and overall daily function. Muscles of the neck help maintain head position for movement, vision, and proprioceptive stability.

Those people who train at the gym forget about their neck muscles and focus on the rest of the body. What they do not know is that a weak neck paves way for a weak connection between the head and the shoulders. It also affects the general alignment of the shoulders and structure of the head since the muscles of the neck that are attached to these parts serve as a means of holding them in a good position. Tension and biomechanical changes due to hyperactive neck muscles can lead to neck tension and pain, upper back tension and discomfort, shoulder issues, and posture deviations.

Considering what we mentioned above, it is thus imperative to take care of your neck muscles and strengthen them. Chiropractic care can help with the structure of the neck, resulting in muscle stability.Combining chiropractic care with at home exercises will result in the optimal neck strength and stability.

Although there are many complex exercises which you can do, we have listed here chiropractic exercises that are related to flexion and are very simple in performing.

What is Flexion?

Flexion is basically a fancy name for stretching. If we look at the general makeup of the muscles, then we would know that they are made to contract and relax, which is an obvious fact. Thus, by targeting them in the way they work naturally is the best approach towards strengthening them.

There are many kinds of neck stretches or flexions that you can perform at home.

Neck Forward Flexion Stretch

forward flexion.jpg

This stretch targets the trapezius muscles which, as stated above, are responsible for neck and head movement. You can touch these muscles by touching the back of your neck.

Steps on how to do it:

    1. Stand in a neutral position. Do not slouch forward or arch backward.
    2. Make sure your shoulders are also placed in their natural state by not holding them up deliberately or forcing them down.
    3. Bring your chin down toward your chest without utilizing your shoulder.
    4. Hold this position for about 15 seconds.
    5. Repeat the exercise for 15 times in 3 sets.

 

Neck Backward Flexion Stretch

backward flexion.jpg

This flexion targets muscle groups that are located in the front of the neck, namely: Digastric muscle, sternal head, and clavicular head.

Steps on how to do it:

  1. Repeat the steps ‘a’, and ‘b’ of the above exercise.
  2. Slowly take your head backward until your neck is completely straightened. If you can take it beyond that point, then you should be cautious about not straining your neck beyond its limit.
  3. Hold that position for about 15 seconds.
  4. Repeat the exercise for 15 times in 3 sets.

 

Neck Sideways Flexion

sideways flexion.jpg

In order to stretch the scalene muscles that are situated deep on either side of the neck, and trapezius muscle, sideways flexion can come in handy.

Steps on how to do it:

  1. Repeat steps ‘a’, and ‘b’ of the forward flexion exercise.
  2. Without moving your shoulders, bring your head towards your right shoulder such that your right ear is above it. Stretch until you feel flexion on the left side of your neck.
  3. Hold that position for 15 seconds.
  4. Repeat the exercise on the left side to stretch the right side of the neck.
  5. Hold that position for 15 seconds also.
  6. Repeat the exercise for 15 times in 3 sets.

 

The exercises that are mentioned in this article are simple to perform and bear fruits easily. To keep on strengthening your neck muscles, you can extend the time of holding the flexion. These exercises can also alleviate any neck pain you are experiencing. However, for a detailed checkup, we suggest you visit a neck specialist chiropractor in your city, Decatur. Request your appointment here!

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How to Sit in Front of a Computer?

Sitting too much at a computer can bring your menaces in the form of back pain, shoulder strain, and wrist pain. If you are experiencing any of these problems and they are intervening in your daily activities, then you need to visit a Chiropractor in your city, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, or Decatur. However, before you do that, we want to tell you how you should sit correctly in front of a computer to avoid pains and further worsening of your current condition. Also, chiropractic exrecise recommendations would help those who are not experiencing any pain but sit at a computer for long hours.

There are three main areas where you need to focus on your posture.

  1. The lower-back

    This part of your body is responsible to hold your skeleton below your stomach in a perfect state, so you should concentrate on keeping it in the right position. You can do that by following the below-stated recommendations.

    • Always sit with your back straight.
    • Place your hips in the chair as far as possible.
    • Keep your feet flat on the ground.
    • Keep your knees just a bit lower than your hips. You can do that by choosing the chair with the right height.
    • Adjust the chair at 100 to 110 degrees. If you cannot do it, then place a pillow just behind your area where your back arches inward when you straighten it.

  2.  The shoulders

    The shoulder girdles are the places which need to be kept in a neutral position. If these places are not kept in the right position, it can, in turn, affect the position of your neck muscles and the upper back, resulting in pain.
    In order to save yourself from that, you should.

    • Align your shoulders with your back,
    • Never slouch forward,
    • Keep your neck aligned with your shoulder, and do not keep it in a forward position for long,
    • Leave the shoulders to rest naturally without holding them upward or forcing them down.

  3.  The hands and fingers

    These parts of the body can experience a setback if they aren’t placed rightly. When we use keyboards, we either try to strain our fingers while typing, or place our wrists below the keyboard and let our elbows fall. Both of these positions are extremely detrimental to the health of the muscles and the bones present in these areas.

    Therefore, everyone—whether adult or a child—should follow the instructions stated below.

    • Keep the keyboard near your body, and directly in front of it.
    • Keep your elbows in an open position.
    • Remove anything that can reduce the movement of the elbows.
    • Do not rest your wrists while typing. However, if you get tired of doing so, then you can use pads for the wrists which are available for a reasonable price in the market. But even while using them, you should make sure that your wrists are aligned with the back of your palm.

    As you can see from the above recommendations, sitting properly while working on a computer is not that difficult. Follow these instructions in order to reduce the pain you are experiencing because of sitting for too long. However, if the symptoms prevail even after that, you should see a chiropractor. In Decatur, there are many chiropractors that can help you.

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Exercises to Strengthen The Back

Atlanta chiropractors advise regular back-strengthening exercises to reduce the frequency and chances of back pain. Strengthen the spinal muscles help maintain proper posture, range of motion, and structural stability of the spine.

Since one of the many causes of back pain is the misalignment of the vertebra, these exercises target just the right muscles that support the spine – the back muscles and the ligaments – in order to strengthen them for the right back movement. Also, these exercises work as part of your chiropractic care along with spinal adjustments.

There are plenty of back exercises that you can learn; however, these are simple yet effective methods to help strengthen the back with goals to prevent and potentially help reduce back pain and discomfort.

So, let’s begin with the exercises.

BridgeExercise, Hip Lift or Reverse Plank

Reverse-Plank-Exercise.jpg

These exercises target the glutes, especially the large muscle Gluteus maximus. This muscle is responsible for keeping the back aligned by supporting it from below.

Steps on how to do it:

    1. Lie on the ground with hands on your either sides, and your knees folded with your feet apart.
    2. Begin by lifting your hips up in the air without taking help from any other muscle but the glutes.
    3. Keep raising your hips until you cannot rise further.
    4. When you start to feel the burn in your hips and abdomen, hold the raised position for as long as you can.
    5. Note the initial holding time, and repeat the exercise 10 times in 3 sets.

 

Plank Exercise

planking-exercise.jpg

Planks are one of those complete exercises that target more than one muscle groups especially the core muscles and the back muscles accompanied by the glutes.

Steps on how to do it:

    1. Lie face down on the floor,
    2.  Lift up your upper body from the ground such that you clamp both your hands just beneath your face, and spread the elbows approximately shoulder-wide so that they can take the major load of the lift.
    3. Tuck your toes into the ground and with the help of your abdominal muscles lift your lower body so that the only body parts that touch the ground are the toes and the hands.
    4. Make sure your back, shoulder, and hips are aligned with each other.
    5. Hold this raised position for as long as you can.
    6. Note the initial timing of the raise that you could manage.
    7. Repeat this exercise 15 times in 3 sets.

 

Swan Dive Exercise

swan-dive-backexercise.jpg

If we are to rate any exercise that targets the lower back most effectively then it would the swan drive. It also stretched the front of the body and thus, it can be also a preferred exercise after the planks in order to stretch the core muscles that are targeted in that exercise.

Steps on how to do it:

    1. Lie face down.
    2. Place your hands on either side of your body.
    3. Point your toes.
    4. Lift your shoulders and the legs about 6-inches high.
    5. Maintain that position for as much as you can. Note your timing.
    6. Repeat the posture 15 times in 3 sets.

If you cannot do this exercise the way it is stated, then you can also do a variation of it. In that, you can lift yourself with the help of your palms.

    1. Do steps ‘a’ to ‘c’ stated above.
    2. Place your palms on either side of your shoulders.
    3. Apply force on the ground through the palms, and lift your body.
    4. You do not have to lift your legs.
    5. Repeat steps ‘e’ and ‘f’ stated above

Performing the exercises mentioned daily may help with the reduction in the back or shoulder pain. Posture muscle stability combined with corrective chiropractic adjustments are the best combination to obtain and maintain healthy posture. Your Atlanta chiropractor at Corrective Chiropractic can personalize a corrective exercise plan to improve the strength of your back. Request your appointment here!

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Exercises to Strengthen Good Posture

Posture deviations can lead to aches and pain in the neck, mid back, and low back regions. Muscle memory from prolonged sitting, daily activities (computer and cell phone use for instance) result in forward head posture, leading to excesses stress and strain on the back muscles and structure. Along with decreasing the amount of time seated and on technology, posture exercises can be incorporated into your health plan to re-establish healthy muscle memory for proper posture. Exercises including plank, the yoga pose Cat Cow, and spinal extensions can in time help reverse posture deviations with time.

Plank

plank-exercise

The standard plank effectively targets the lower abdomen (abs), glutes and thighs in order to relieve stress and strain of the trapezius, and erector spinae muscle groups.

How to do it:

  1. Lie on the floor with your face down.
  2. Tuck your toes into the floor.
  3. Now lift your body with the help of your elbows, hands, and toes. You should experience strain in the abs and glutes while you’re doing so.
  4. After rising off the ground, make sure you align your hips, back, and shoulder.
  5. Maintain this position for about 15 seconds and then relax.
  6. Repeat this position for 15 times in 3 sets. Keep adding 2 seconds to the time after each rep.

 

Cat or Cow Exercise

cat-cow-exercise

This exercise is one of those yoga postures that can strengthen your back muscles and your abs at the same time. It works in an alternative manner where you target the abs first and then the back muscles by arching downward and upward respectively.

How to do it:

  1. Get on all fours.
  2. Make sure your wrists are below your shoulder.
  3. To exercise your abs, inhale while bringing your stomach toward the floor. Also, gently arch your back down and your shoulders and tailbone upward.
  4. Hold this position for about 15 seconds.
  5. Afterwards, to stretch your back, exhale while arching your back toward the ceiling, and bringing down your shoulders and tailbone to the floor.
  6. Hold this position for about 15 seconds.
  7. Repeat both of these stretches alternatively for 15 times in 3 sets.
  8. Rest in between the reps.

 

Back Extending Exercise

back-extending-exercise

Back extension exercises can help target posture muscles that are typically in a forward or flexed state due to posture deviations.

How to do it:

  1. Lie face down on the floor.
  2. Bring your hand beneath your face.
  3. Tuck your toes into the floor but not lift your legs.
  4. Extend your arms to lift yourself off the floor until you feel the strain in the lower back.
  5. Hold this position for about 15 seconds.
  6. Repeat the exercise for 15 times in 3 sets.

 

Performing the exercises mentioned daily may help with the reduction in the back or shoulder pain. Posture muscle stability combined with corrective chiropractic adjustments are the best combination to obtain and maintain healthy posture. If you perform these 3 easy exercises, you will experience a reduction in the back or shoulder pain. However, if the symptoms still persist, you should see a chiropractor.

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Chiropractic Care As Your Best Investment for Health

If we closely look at our finances, healthcare expenses consume a major part of our budget. The cost of health treatments and medicines are surging up, which further makes it difficult for the families having a limited budget to meet their day to day expenses. One way to reduce your healthcare costs is to opt for chiropractic care. Whether or not you have budget issues, chiropractic care is the best option for you as it contains no adverse or side effects.

To put it simply, chiropractic care is known to be one of the safest therapies available across the globe. For the patients who are suffering from neuromusculoskeletal issues such as back pain or joint pain, chiropractic care is a proven and effective treatment for them.

When it comes to chiropractic care, it can be safely said that it is an investment, not a cost. The major reason behind making this statement is that chiropractic care not only heals your body but also improves the overall health conditions. It can help to improve circulation, reduce lactic acid levels, enhance flexibility, and cell nutrient delivery. Furthermore, chiropractic care can also improve the recovery time, immune system, and prevent any future injury from occurring.

Now compare these benefits with any other form of medical treatment. They are usually costly, take a long time to recover, and some of them often result in other minor and major issues. Hence, by opting for chiropractic care, you are actually making an investment for your body since it poses a minor injury risk (0.0002%) and provides numerous benefits to our body.

The theory behind chiropractic care is that our body has the power to heal itself. Therefore, chiropractors remove the blockages or subluxations from the spines of the patient in order to alleviate the back pain or any other issue they are suffering from.

The popularity of chiropractic care can be deduced from the fact that a huge number of people, across the globe, opt for this treatment method for recovery from sports injuries, back pain, muscle strains etc. If we talk about US only, 22 million US residents annually (an approx. value), prefer chiropractic care over other treatments. You can easily find chiropractors in your area. It doesn’t matter whether you are residing in Ontario or Atlanta, a Chiropractor can be found anywhere easily.

The number is growing not only because it is a safe option but also because it brings improvement in our overall health without the need for any surgery or medication. The fact that chiropractic care facility is available at nominal rates further makes it ideal for everyone.

To sum it up, chiropractic care should be treated as an investment rather than a cost because of the numerous benefits it offers to our body. However, if you want to enhance the benefits of this particular treatment, there are certain other healthful practices that you need to adopt. This includes opting for a healthy diet, making exercise a regular part of your routine, and reducing alcohol and cigarette intake. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, you will be able to enjoy maximum benefits of chiropractic care. If you are residing in Atlanta, head to your nearest Atlanta Chiropractor and avail their healing services.

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Birth Plan Template

There are many birth options from vaginal to cesarean, locations vary from at home births to hospitals. The array of options provide expectant mothers with many choices that should be made prior to birth. Having a preexisting birth plan ensures the birth of your choice and support from your birth team. Below provides a detailed outline of a sample birth plan. Use this layout to customize your very own plan and inform your birth team of your desires. Share your birth plan with members of your birth team prior to birth in order to ensure every team member is prepared and willing to follow your blueprint. Prepare copies to all birth team members upon completion. Remember, it is your birth. There are no wrong or right ways, just the way your body and self are prepared for.

Before Labor

  • I prefer to have ___ vaginal exams
  • I prefer to have ___ ultrasounds
  • Discuss induction options prior to due date
  • I want at least ___ days post my due date before inducing labor, as long as baby and I are healthy
  • I want no time restrictions if I go past my due date, and plan to have no induction, as long as baby and I are healthy
  • I want to labor at home for as long as possible

Induction

For induction methods I do or do not want the following:

  • Acupuncture
  • Chiropractic
  • Enema
  • Herbs
  • Stripping membranes
  • Pitocin

I would like the following time period before induction

  • Wait 6 hours
  • Wait 12 hours
  • As long as baby and I are healthy, I want no induction methods

Environment

  • I prefer the following location for my birth:
    • Home
    • Birthing Center (Name and Address)
    • Hospital (Name and Address)
  • I want to utilize the following options during labor:
    • Water birth
    • Shower
    • Birthing bed
    • Birthing ball
    • Squatting
  • I want or do not want the following in the room:
    • Partner
    • Midwife
    • Doula
    • Chiropractor
    • Children
    • Parents
    • Extended family
    • I want privacy. Limit or restrict all visitors

Pain Relief

  • Only if I request, offer pain relief
  • Offer and suggest pain relief when needed
  • I want to discuss pain relief methods as soon as possible
  • Use the following methods to relieve pain:
    • Breathing techniques
    • Mediation
    • Acupuncture
    • Massage
    • Hypnosis
    • Water therapy
    • Walking and movement
    • Epidural
    • Narcotics

Labor

Time Limits:

  • I want zero time limits for laboring and pushing as long as I and baby are healthy
  • Medical intervention will be allowed after __ hours of pushing.

Positions:

I prefer the following positions during labor:

  • Standing
  • Squatting
  • On the toilet
  • Hands and knees
  • Medical ball
  • Lying down
  • Avoid stirrups

Episiotomy

  • I want no episiotomy and will risk tearing
  • I want an episiotomy

Monitoring

  • Continuous monitoring
  • Intermittent monitoring
  • Utilize the Lamaze, Bradley, and/or Childbirth Hypnosis techniques

Delivery

  • When pushing, I want to rely on instincts instead of orders from birth professionals.
  • When pushing, I want guidance on when or when not to push.
  • Please avoid the use of forceps and vacuum extractions.
  • Forceps and vacuum extractions may be used to assist delivery.
  • I would like my partner to catch the baby as he/she is delivered.
  • I would like my birth professional to catch the baby as he/she is delivered.
  • If an emergency cesarean is needed, please allow my partner and I time to discuss details and follow our initial newborn procedures below.

Cesarean

  • Unless a medical emergency, I opt not to have a cesarean.
  • Inform me on when it may be a good option to have a cesarean
  • I want to plan and schedule a cesarean.
  • I would like to hold my baby immediately after delivery
  • If I am unable to hold my baby, I want my partner to be able to have first contact.
  • I would like my baby to be sent to the nursery as I recover.

Newborn Procedures

  • I request immediate skin to skin contact as soon as baby is delivered
  • I request the time to breastfeed baby before we are separated
  • I opt of having my baby bathe right after birth
  • My partner and I will bathe our baby using our own bathing products
  • I do or do not want eye drops administered to my baby
  • I decline PKU testing
  • I would like to delay PKU testing
  • I want routine PKU testing
  • Do or do not administer Vitamin K
  • Postpone all immunizations
  • I would like all routine immunizations
  • Do not circumcise my baby
  • Do not retract baby’s foreskin
  • I would like my baby circumcised
  • I would like to meet with a lactation consultant as soon as possible
  • I want my baby to exclusively be breastfed
  • I want to combine breastfeeding and formula feeding
  • I want my baby to be formula fed
  • I would like all newborn procedures to be performed immediately
  • I want my baby in the room with me at all times, unless there is an emergency
  • I prefer my baby to partially stay in the nursery when I am resting
  • I would like the nursery to fully care for my baby and bring him/her for feedings

Third Stage Labor

Umbilical Cord:

  • Avoid clamping until pulsation stops
  • Allow partner to cut cord
  • Delay cord cutting for ____ time.
  • I made arrangements to bank baby’s cord

Placenta

  • Use Pitocin to promote placenta to be born
  • Avoid Pitocin unless there are risks of hemorrhage
  • I made arrangements to take the placenta home

Hospital Stay

  • Be as short as possible
  • Be as long as possible
  • I prefer a private room
  • I prefer my partner to remain in the room during my stay. Please provide accommodations
  • I prefer my family and children to be allowed with no restrictions
  • I prefer guests to be allowed to visit with no restrictions
  • I want privacy during my hospital stay. Limit or restrict all visitors
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Ultrasounds During Pregnancy – Purpose, When, Types, and Potential Risks?

Prenatal ultrasounds are typically routine during pregnancy. There are known benefits of ultrasounds; however, recently, many question the need and even possible associated risks. When it comes to your pregnancy, you and your health care provider can discuss the need for and amount of ultrasounds throughout your pregnancy. A basic knowledge of the purpose of ultrasounds, types of ultrasounds, and common expectations regarding ultrasounds can prepare you for this conversation.

Purpose of Ultrasounds

Ultrasounds utilize high frequency sound waves on the abdomen and pelvic region in order to create a sonogram, or picture, of internal structures. The sonogram shows the characteristics of soft tissue and organs. During pregnancy, ultrasounds are routinely used to show pictures of the baby and placenta. Initially, ultrasounds are used to confirm fetal heartbeat, determine the due date/gestational age, number of fetuses (single, twins, etc), and to rule out ectopic pregnancies. They are also used to ensure proper fetal growth and development, gender, assess for birth defects, placenta health, baby weight and fetal position.  

When to have an Ultrasound?

Ultrasounds can be performed throughout pregnancy. Initially, ultrasounds are performed around weeks 18-20 in order to confirm placenta health, and proper fetal growth and development. Gender can be determined around 20 weeks. Ultrasounds may be performed earlier to determine the due date or gestational age. Based on medical necessity, additional ultrasounds can be used to monitor baby and placenta health, quantity of amniotic fluid, fetal weight, and fetal position. Ultrasounds are recommended when the baby exceeds their due date to confirm the health and well-being of baby and baby’s environment.

What to expect?

Traditional, 3D, and 4D ultrasounds are non invasive. A transducer and gel are used on the external surface of the abdomen in order to create the sonogram. Trans-vaginal ultrasounds utilize a transducer wand that is directly inserted into the vagina. Typically, all ultrasounds are done in a fairly quickly manner, ranging from five to thirty minutes long. Ultrasounds are virtually painless, exceptions include the discomfort of the cold temperature of the gel, discomfort of a full bladder with trans-vaginal ultrasounds, and moments of increased external pressure of the sonographer. A physical copy of the sonogram is typically provided that visit for  your enjoyment and sharing with friends, family, and social media.

Types of Ultrasounds:

There are many prenatal ultrasounds options including the traditional 2D (2 Dimensional)  ultrasound and more advanced 3D, 4D, and trans-vaginal.  3D and 4D ultrasounds have the ability to illustrate a more in depth and detailed image of internal structures. A 4D also shows movement in real time, similar to a video. Typically, 2D ultrasounds provide enough information; however, 3D and 4D are utilized to provide a more detailed examination for concerns of fetal abnormalities.

Safety and Side Effects of Ultrasounds

All ultrasounds are deemed routine and safe for mother and baby. There is no radiation exposure, instead high frequency sound waves are used. Risk and side effects of repetitive ultrasound exposure are not fully understood or studied. According to the American Pregnancy Organization, ultrasounds should only be used when medically indicated. Limiting the amount of ultrasound exposure is the most ideal way to avoid any potential risks. Once baby is here, take all the pictures your heart desires, until then, try to keep the number of ultrasounds to a minimum, when medically necessary.    

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What is the Best Mattress for Your Back?

As a chiropractor, I am faced with questions regarding proper mattresses and pillows almost on a daily basis. The average adult gets anywhere from 6-8 hours of sleep per night, which is 42-56 hours weekly, or 2,184-2,912 hours each year. In other words, we spend a significant time of our life sleeping; therefore, it is important to have proper support when doing so. Recently, I was in the market for a new mattress and found myself asking the same questions patients ask me all the time: What is the best mattress for my back? Like most markets in America, there are countless options when shopping for a mattress. Do I need firm or soft support? Pillow top or memory foam? Stationary or adjustable foundations? Name brands from Sealy, Serta, Tempur-Pedic, to revolutionary brands such as Casper? The options are limitless and can in fact be overwhelming, at least from my point of view. When you consider the investment (money and time spent sleeping), the selection of a particular mattress is a firm decision, no pun intended.

Just as characteristics of mattress may vary, the variety of spinal support varies per individual. I hope my shopping experience can provide some insight on finding the best mattress for your back.

Steps to Finding the Best Mattress

First thing, you must get out there and test drive different mattress from brands, materials, and firmness. Although a five minute test in the store doesn’t provide the optimal sleep experience, you will get a feel for what type of mattress is comfortable for your needs. From a spinal support perspective, a firmer foundation provides ideal support and allows your spine to be in a neutral position when sleeping on your back or side. The ideal mattress will conform to the natural curvature of the spine and evenly distribute pressure. For simplicity purposes, any firm mattress that allows the spine to remain in neutral position is the most important characteristic when finding a mattress that is best for your back. Other qualities come down to personal preference.

After trying out different styles, research the mattresses online. Consumer reviews provide another perspective on product quality and overall experience. Some things to consider include coil count (the more the better) and the breathability and heat retaining properties. Also research the type of materials used for chemical and allergen exposure. Daily and close contact with such chemicals and allergens may have adverse health reactions for some individuals.

Lastly and most importantly, whichever mattress you decide to invest in,  ensure there is a window of time or a trial period to test out the product. Many distributors like Mattress Firm, department stores such as Macy’s and Sears, and direct companies including Casper and Bear, allow consumers to test out the mattress for 30-100 days. The true testament of the mattress will be determined after multiple nights of sleep. Such trial periods allow for proper mattress assessment and provide the option to exchange and in some cases, even return the product. My personal experience supports this time period. My first few nights on my new mattress were far from dreamy. At one point I wanted to throw the mattress out the window; however, after a few nights to allow my body to adjust to the change, I now am satisfied with my decision. The point of it all, once you have made your purchase, be patient and allow your body time to adapt to your new mattress.

Best wishes on your ideal mattress hunt. Please comment below and share your favorite mattress type.

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Business Buddy Highlight: Catalyst Fitness

What is the name of your business and what is its function?

Our business is Catalyst Fitness. To the general public we offer One on One Personal Training, Small Group Personal Training on Demand, Yoga, Massage, and Corporate Wellness Programs. Our Small Group Personal Training on Demand is unique in that your session begins when you arrive and ends when you complete the workout, rather than starting and ending at a predetermined time. This allows members to fit in a workout that works perfectly with their schedule. For example, if you are 5 minutes late for an Orange Theory or Blast class, you’re stressing out trying to get there and not interrupt the class. Or if you are 15 minutes late you’d probably decide to just not go if they haven’t already given up your spot since they over sold the class. Our On Demand model eliminates the stress of being late or missing the class completely because the workout doesn’t start until you arrive. It also allows us to keep our Group Training “Personal” by regressing and progressing movement patterns (aka exercises) to meet the individual goals and needs of the participant. On the Industry side, our educational team speaks at and conducts conferences, clinics, and workshops all over the world. We write educational platforms for equipment companies and curriculums for educational organizations. By educating and training thousands of trainers each year, we are able to impact the lives of millions of people around the world.

 

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Dr. Samaira utilizing the ViPR during her one-on-one training at Catalyst Fitness.

How long have you been in Atlanta?

Catalyst Fitness opened its doors in 2004 as a brick and mortar facility. Our owners, Bill and Valorie Sonnemaker, have lived in Atlanta for over 20 years and have long considered it their home. They have two kids, ages 11 and 2, and love being an integral part of Buckhead and the surrounding communities.

What do you like most about Atlanta?

We love the slow and smooth pace of the South and the small town feel with the big city options. Atlanta is steeped in Southern charm, but it’s balanced by the buzz of a Metro culture. Its central geographic location and easy access to the airport are also a big plus given our frequent national and international travel for industry conferences and engagements.

What separates your business from the others and makes it the best?

SCIENCE…At Catalyst Fitness, we have developed an evidence based approach to health and fitness that is systematic, progressive, and scalable. We use methods that are founded in and backed by science, following a specific system and order that progresses in intensity and challenge for the individual, and that is scalable to every individual’s specific needs. We provide clients the results they want while addressing their biomechanical needs in order to achieve optimal functionality in the safest and shortest amount of time possible.

Who is you ideal client?

We value clients who recognize the difference of what we offer as compared to others. Our ideal client is educated and discerning. They want the best for themselves, and they recognize who offers the best in the industry and why.

Is there something that people in the community do not know about your business that they should know?

We are the authority on health and fitness. What we do today with clients is what others in the Atlanta area will do with their clients in 5-8 years. For example, we were the first to bring TRX, Trigger Point Therapy, and ViPR training tools to Georgia, and we continue to stay at the forefront of health and fitness by working with new and innovative companies as well as educational companies. We have won more international and national industry and popularity awards that any other facility in the Southeast and are home to the 5X winner of Atlanta’s Best Personal Trainer, Bill Sonnemaker, and Personal Fitness Professional (PFP) Trainer of the Year, Valorie Sonnemaker

 

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Business Buddy Highlight: STACK Sports Performance and Therapy

What is the name of your business and what is its function?
STACK Sports Performance & Therapy. We offer sports performance training and physical therapy

How long have you been in Atlanta?
November 2015

What do you like most about Atlanta?
The wide range of athletes in the area, from your first year athletes to your professional athletes.  The passion of athletics in the area is incredible and the desire to achieve peak performance is what excites our staff most!

What separates your business from the others and makes it the best?
We offer premiere coaching each session the athlete steps on our training floor. We set realistic measurable goals and keep our athletes on track to achieving these goals.

Who is your ideal client?
Any athlete that is looking to take their game to the next level. Someone who is dedicated to their craft on and off the playing field.

Is there something that people in the community do not know about your business that they should know?

We are the only full service sports performance facility in metro Atlanta, we helps athlete maximize their athletic potential by developing strength, power, coordination, agility, speed, flexibility, and energy systems with an additional focus on injury prevention, recovery/regeneration, and nutrition.

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Have you been to STACK? Let us know what you love about them in the comments below!

 

 

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