For the past 7 weeks I have been going to the Strength Studio in Sebastopol to do a very specific, and it turns out, efficient form of exercise called SuperSlow weight training. I've done it consistently, for 30 minutes each session, and am now giving my enthusiastic recommendation for all my friends in the area to try it.
First, some general info. The studio is run by Hector Sanchez, a very friendly, but serious (about training) guy who is clearly knowledgeable about why SuperSlow is one of the best ways to combat muscle loss. He has some great literature that shows how we all begin losing muscle beginning when we turn 30, which is called Sarcopenia. Losing muscle is more than just losing your good shape; it has many effects, including energy loss, aching joints from not being supported well enough, not to mention that you burn food much more efficiently with more muscle. Given that bone mass declines with age, there's no doubt that some form of weight training is good for everyone. The question is what form should you do?
SuperSlow has a very specific and scientific reasoning behind it: if your muscles stay engaged with the maximum load they can bear, without use of momentum or rest, the results will be much more efficient and you will be under less risk of injury. The machines that are used (these are not "free weights", which can be dangerous when not done properly) are set up so that your muscles stay engaged through the push and the pull - there is no "off time", which results in quicker fatigue, and hence more growth of the cells that turn into new, healthy muscle tissue. You work for about 2-3 minutes max on each machine, going at a steady pace, with Hector coaching you on your form, breathing, and giving you encouragement to reach your maximum. It is not easy, but it is extremely satisfying, as when your 30 minutes is up you know your body was worked out in a way that is safe, and extremely thorough.
There are a number of types of SuperSlow companies out there, most of which are off-shoots of the original created by Ken Hutchins, the founder. I can't vouch for them, but the science behind this technique is very apparent, and makes sense from a practical point of view, too. Who among us can go to the gym, lift the exact amount of weight that we think (what our mind tells us) is appropriate, follow a regimen that is consistent, avoid bad technique, avoid injury, and reach our maximum potential in 25-30 minutes? Even Hector, who says he sometimes tries to work out on his own, says he is able to reach a much higher level working with a coach.
One of the best parts of the Strength Studio is how well designed it is. Hector has light classical music playing, no distractions of other people while you work with him (or one of his trainers), and there is nothing to keep you from concentrating on the task at hand. Even my girlfriend, who hates exercise, has loved the experience of working out with Hector. He makes you feel good about yourself, your body, and gives you strong encouragement. I've found it to be one of the best things I've done for myself in a long, long time. Try it out, and you'll probably get hooked. read more
