“Kelly”
5 Rounds for time of:
Run 400 Meters
30 Box Jumps 24″(20″)
30 Wall Balls 20#(14#)
Post time to comments or BTW
POSTURE... I barely even know her! (maybe that was only funny to me?) – Anna Mattson
Recently I wrote a post regarding smiling and the effects it has on your mood and general disposition. While listening to the Tim Ferris podcast, he referenced a TED talk that discussed the hormone cascade that happens in certain postures. I was interested by this topic, so I watched the TED talk by Amy Cuddy then followed it up with some research. In this post, I will try not to sound like you mom and tell you to stand up straight, rather show you how you hold yourself can lead to big gains in the gym OR work against you and your goals. Here are some of the key takeaways I got from my research:
#1 – Holding yourself in a “power position”, whether you believe it or not, will instantaneously increase your Testosterone levels. Scientists conducted a study in which they had participants hold power positions and non-power positions; then they would have them spit into a test tube. The results showed the participants, while in a power position, had doubled their testosterone levels. Increased levels of Testosterone can lead to strength gains, increased energy, and stronger muscles and bones.
#2 – Holding yourself in a “non-power” position will INCREASE your Cortisol levels. This bit of information was found in the study reference above. Cortisol is a stress hormone and has very negative side effects such as weight gain, depression, and very negatively effect your memory.
Reference the picture below to see the postures I am speaking of:
Please follow this link to read a key article about the information discussed above.
So, here is what I want you to do when you walk into the door @ Verve – Strike a power position the minute you walk in the door, #gainz are sure to follow!
VERVE UPDATES:
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 2nd! Verve is hosting a get-together / fundraiser at Lucky Pie Pizza. There will be more details to follow!
