Injury Prevention

HIIT your workouts.

Santa Fe high-intensity interval training, HIIT benefits

HIIT—The Science of Getting Fitter, Faster

With New Year’s resolutions (or swimsuit season) around the corner, everyone wants fat loss and fitness gains—fast. Here’s the good news: sound research proves you don’t have to spend endless hours on the treadmill. Short, high-intensity bursts (HIIT) can deliver all the metabolic, fat-burning, and heart-health benefits of hours of traditional cardio, in as little as 90 minutes a week.

A study from Liverpool John Moores University and the University of Birmingham split sedentary adults into two groups—one did just three HIIT sessions per week, while the other logged 5+ hours of low-intensity cardio per week. The results? Identical improvements in all health markers. That’s massive time savings, and a huge boost for anyone with a busy schedule.

Why Does HIIT Work So Well?

High-intensity intervals don’t just pack a punch in less time—they trigger unique physiological responses. Only this kind of exercise boosts Human Growth Hormone (HGH), the so-called “youth hormone” that helps burn fat, build muscle, and keep energy up as we age.

And then there’s the “afterburn” effect (EPOC): post-workout, the body keeps burning calories at a higher rate for hours, leading to faster fat loss with consistent effort.

How to Integrate HIIT for Truly Lasting Results

HIIT isn’t about going “all out” daily—it’s most effective (and safest) just 2-3 times per week, with a thoughtful progression of exercises and intensity. If you’re new or have any health concerns, get clearance from a doctor. Better yet, work with a qualified personal trainer: they’ll assess your baseline, program the right intervals, and ensure you progress safely while maximizing benefits.

And don’t forget: no program can out-train a bad diet. Even the best HIIT routines work best with smart nutrition—like metabolic typing and real, whole foods.

Start Strong, Stay Safe

Add HIIT into your week, pay attention to sleep, hydration, and recovery, and combine smart training with healthy eating. With the right professional support and consistency, HIIT can get you stronger, leaner, and fitter—in a fraction of the time.

Want a HIIT program personally designed for your goals and lifestyle?
https://www.solcorefitness.com/personal-training-and-manual-therapy/

Or are you interested in other services that work holistically?


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How To Guarantee Fitness Success Think Better!

Santa Fe fitness goals, planning for success, step-by-step guide

The Real Formula for Fitness Success—It’s More Than Just Jumping In

It’s tempting to dive into a new fitness routine with big dreams—lose weight, gain muscle, blitz through flashy challenges. But real, lasting results don’t come from “random acts of fitness.” They come from clarity: knowing what needs to happen, when, and how… with a plan that’s built on powerful goals, not just good intentions.

Rock-Solid Goals Start With a Dream

Every success starts with a dream. It’s the spark—short-term or long-term—that fires up motivation and gives a vision of what’s possible. But dreams are broad. To turn them into real results, they need to be shaped into clear visions that inspire daily action. Build your vision for both personal and professional life—making sure both support each other, even when sacrifices are sometimes required.

SMART Goals Beat “I Just Want to Get Fit”

Great goals aren’t vague. They’re SMART—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time bound. “I want to get fit” is nice, but “I will drop three sizes in 90 days” is powerful, accountable, and focused. Goals also need owners, deadlines, and context: what’s the most important priority right now? Set targets for each area of life and revisit them often.

Planning—Break Goals Into Manageable Chunks

A strong plan maps out each task, owner, and deadline. For fitness, this might mean dividing your program into exercise, nutrition, lifestyle, and recovery—each with clear steps and timeframes. Plans should give momentum (not overwhelm) and include room for growth beyond the comfort zone. “Chunking” your tasks helps simplify the process and keeps you on track.

Take Action, Then Review and Celebrate

Plans are just paper without action. Focus on one top priority at a time, aligning your daily efforts with the bigger goal. And remember, progress isn’t always straightforward—review, adjust, and measure along the way. Share your goals openly, track them, and celebrate the wins. A positive outlook and willingness to adapt are key to confidence and motivation.

If you want personal coaching and real accountability, request a complimentary consult with SolCore Fitness to map out your success plan and get expert support every step of the way.

Next Steps: Build Your Personalized Exercise Program

Once you have your Dream, Goals, Plan, Action, and Review dialed in, the real magic happens when you put these steps into practice with a fitness strategy tailored precisely to your needs. A truly effective program isn’t one-size-fits-all—it matches your body, your goals, and your unique starting point, so you can steadily progress, stay accountable, and avoid the guesswork that causes most people to fall short.

For a customized, science-backed, and fully guided routine that pulls every piece together, learn more here:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/personalized-workout-program/


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Personal Training Success Story – Amy Weyhrauch

Inspiring client story - ankylosing spondylitis relief through personal training

Amy’s Story—Strength, Resilience, and Hope in Santa Fe

“Life is what you make of it. You can be happy or sad. It’s up to you.” That’s the wisdom Amy Weyhrauch grew up with, and it shows in everything she does. A mom of four, Amy has advanced ankylosing spondylitis, but she has never let that define who she is.

When Amy started at SolCore Fitness and Ekemba Sooh she moved stiffly and cautiously, in real pain and unable to turn her neck easily. Her number one goal was simple: just to get out of pain and move again without fear. Years of being misdiagnosed after a clavicle injury, and even being tested for leukemia, would make anyone hesitant—but Amy’s resolve was stronger than her setbacks.

To explain how AS affects her, I always put it this way: “Everything that you do is magnified. When somebody else doesn’t stretch for a day, they get a little tight. When you miss your stretches for a day or two, your body starts to lock up. Literally!”

Yet, day after day, Amy showed up, embracing our core principle: “Consistent Steady Improvement.” After a year-plus of private training 3–4 days a week, Amy has seen remarkable progress.

Q & A: Amy’s Perspective

1) What made you decide you wanted/needed to start a program?
“My Ankylosing was the main reason to seek out help. It just made me feel so bad, and it is really hard to motivate yourself when you don’t feel good. I just kept giving myself excuses as to why I shouldn’t and couldn’t do it. Well, I finally got to the point where I felt so bad that I reached out to a friend of mine, Liz Karp, and she recommended you to me.”

2) What did you do before?
“Yoga tapes, exercise tapes, tennis, hiking, sometimes skiing. I also had this chart that was given to me on stretches I should do for Ankylosing. But I knew I needed somebody to teach me the right way.”

3) What results have you achieved since starting your program that you are proud of?
“Well, I have lost 7-8% body fat and around 10 pounds, but what I am most proud of is the fact that I am a happier better person because I don’t hurt all the time. It got to the point where I didn’t want to go out and be social. The weight of that pain on me all day took all my effort, and to think about spending more effort on going out was too much. I also LOVE that I now have tools to keep myself moving and feeling great. Not only the stretches and exercises but also the fitness journal you gave me was a big help—especially at the start. It is eye-opening to look back and see how you really did, not just how you thought you did!”

4) Do you have a favorite exercise? Least? What do you like or don’t like about them?
“I do not like the Mountain Climbers! I love the wall stretch L5-S1, love the hip stretch (Glute Med). Actually, I love all the hip stretches and all the spine stretches.”

5) What are some challenges or goals you are currently working on?
“Weight loss is my next big goal along with staying out of pain and keeping my body mobile. I also want to keep changing my habits and keep getting better with the advanced workouts you guys have been giving me.”

6) What do you like best about our program/having a trainer?
“The knowledge that you guys have is invaluable. I also love that you are flexible. You guys always have a program ready, but if I come in and say I am feeling a certain way, you are able to change the program on the fly to meet my needs. I also really appreciate that you guys push me to levels that I didn’t think I could do before, but you never push me too far.”

7) What advice would you give to other SolCore Fitness members?
“KEEP IT UP! Keep coming to class. Keep doing your homework. Keep making those small improvements each day.”

8) What would you say to someone on the fence about joining our program?
“I wish I had had somebody who I trusted to push me to start this sooner. Think about how many times you have procrastinated. I waited almost a year from knowing about SolCore Fitness to starting with them. To get better you have to start. So start now!”

If Amy’s story sounds familiar, and you’re ready for personal, compassionate coaching to help you break through pain and reach your goals, see how SolCore Fitness’ programs can help:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/personal-training-and-manual-therapy/

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The Weight Loss Killer—Stopping This One Thing Will Drastically Help Your Weight Loss

Santa Fe weight loss, alcohol and fat loss guide

Alcohol—the Surprising Weight Loss Killer

“Just one can’t really hurt too much, can it?” For so many people working toward weight loss, alcohol feels harmless—until the science sets the record straight. Research cited by Dr. Dean Ornish in Eat More Weigh Less showed that just three ounces of alcohol can cut the body’s ability to burn fat by up to a third. Other studies push that number as high as 73%.

If that wasn’t eye-opening enough, drinking even a moderate amount of alcohol leads to more calories consumed—men in one recent study took in an extra 433 calories on drinking days (most from alcohol itself), and tended to eat fattier foods while skimping on fruit and dairy.

Does Alcohol Really Derail Your Fat Loss Goals?

Yes—there’s simply no sugarcoating it. Alcohol doesn’t just add empty calories; it actively blocks your metabolism from using stored fat, meaning that beer or cocktail is much more than a “harmless” indulgence. Frank Sinatra said, “Alcohol may be man’s worst enemy, but the bible says love your enemy.” When it comes to fat loss, though, loving alcohol is a recipe for disappointment.

What to Do Instead

If you’re serious about achieving sustainable weight loss, moderating or eliminating alcohol is one of the fastest, most effective moves you can make. Notice how much better your body performs, your cravings stay in check, and your recovery and results accelerate when alcohol isn’t getting in the way.

Want to take your results even further?
Explore the Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program for an individualized plan built around science, your goals, and the realities of Santa Fe living:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/holistic-nutrition-weight-loss-program-santa-fe/


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Holistic Personal Training—Say No To GMOs

Holistic fitness, organic nutrition, and personal training guidance Santa Fe

What Does “Holistic Personal Training” Really Mean?

It’s not just the latest workout trend—real holistic personal training considers diet, lifestyle, stress, and environment, not just what you do in the gym. That means thinking about what you’re putting into your body as much as how you move it. If you’re jumping from new diet to new fitness craze, it’s time to ask: Is your program really protecting your health, or adding more stress?

Why Avoiding GMOs and Glyphosate Matters

Dr. Stephanie Seneff of MIT warns that rates of autism and other chronic diseases track alarmingly with the rise of glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) on our crops and thus, in our food. This isn’t vague conspiracy theory—it’s based on neurological, gut, and immune markers increasingly linked to glyphosate exposure: low serum sulfate, gut bacteria disruption, serotonin/melatonin deficiency, and more. In the U.S., glyphosate use has skyrocketed, contaminating much of our non-organic food supply.

To protect yourself:

  • Avoid GMOs and choose organic whenever possible
  • Shop farmers markets for fresher, chemical-free foods
  • Know that most “too expensive!” objections are offset long-term by lower medical costs and more competition lowering organic prices

Small Steps, Big Results

You don’t need to hit 100% organic perfection. If you’re solid 80–90% at home, don’t stress if your favorite restaurant isn’t fully organic. Each good choice is a deposit in your long-term health bank. And remember: cancer treatment is a whole lot more expensive than a few cents more for organic produce.

Holistic Personal Training Means Total Health

Don’t settle for “random acts of movement” or throw up your hands at healthy eating because it’s “hard.” Stepping up to a truly holistic program means taking ownership of all aspects of health, so your exercise, nutrition, recovery, and habits all work together—not against you.

Ready to take control?
Explore:
Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program
https://www.solcorefitness.com/holistic-nutrition-weight-loss-program-santa-fe/

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Personal Training Success Story – Barbara Hendrick

Client success story—overcoming back pain with personal training Santa Fe

Barbara’s Story—Back in Action, Pain-Free

When Barbara Hendrick came to SolCore Fitness, back pain from a horseback riding accident had derailed her active life and was only getting worse. She’d tried physical therapy, osteopathic treatments, and even expensive injections—nothing worked until she committed to a new approach. After a thorough consult, it was clear Barbara was ready to work hard and make lasting changes.

An avid bookkeeper and “ridiculously active” outdoor enthusiast, Barbara’s passion for hiking, paddle boarding, water aerobics, pilates, and gardening made it essential for her to move pain-free. For her, being able to hike with her husband was non-negotiable: “If I couldn’t hike with Chris, then what’s the use in living?”

Q & A: Barbara’s Journey in Her Words

What made you decide you wanted/needed to start a program?
Back pain. I had hurt my back horseback riding and it was getting unbearable. I was desperate.

What did you do before?
I had done PT, Osteopath treatments and a 3 set round of Prolotherapy, and none of it worked to ease my back pain.

What results have you achieved since starting your program that you are proud of?
I have much better posture now. My spine is much more flexible and has a lot more mobility. And now even when I do activates that really cause my back to tighten up (like gardening) it goes back to normal really quickly.
Editor’s note: Barbara got hurt in August 2013. She started classes in May 2014, and by August 2014 she was able to go horseback riding without pain!

Do you have a favorite exercise? Least? What do you like or don’t like about them?
Frogs (inner thigh stretches) and butterflies (upper back strengthening) are my least favorite even though I know they are good for me. I love all the other exercises, because I know that I am doing a lot of good for my body by making it stronger and more flexible. If I did have to choose two movements that I especially love, it would be the 90/90/90s and the sliding back and forth move with my spine. The sliding move (lateral translation) really opened my spine, and the 90/90/90 (obturator internus myo-fascial stretch) balanced my pelvis and kept my back out of pain.

What are some challenges or goals you are currently working on?
To keep my body in a place where I can keep playing. I want to hike, horseback ride, paddle board, work out, garden, etc., without the fear of getting hurt.

What do you like best about our program/having a trainer?
You guys make it so comfortable to come and work out. And it is a lot of fun in class. Really humorous.

What advice would you give to the other SolCore Fitness members?
Do your homework! (I swear I didn’t make her say that)
Side note: It took Barbara about four months before she started doing her homework. When she did, her results started to be extremely rapid.

What would you say to someone on the fence about joining our program?
Give it a try. To try it for three months is nothing.

Inspired by Barbara’s journey and want to get moving again without pain?
Explore how our Personal Training and Manual Therapy can help:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/personal-training-and-manual-therapy/

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Do You Suffer from Breathing Problems?

Diaphragmatic breathing for fitness and relaxation Santa Fe

Are You Breathing the Right Way?

Breathing is one of those things that should be effortless, but most people don’t do it efficiently. Proper breathing isn’t just about taking in air—it helps create energy, keeps the body’s pH balanced, and is crucial for eliminating waste like carbon dioxide. When you breathe well, your body manages stress, waste, and even your mental state much more effectively.

Shallow vs. Diaphragmatic Breathing

Most people tend to shallow (chest) breathe, which overworks the accessory breathing muscles and keeps the body in “fight or flight” stress mode. Diaphragmatic (belly) breathing uses the main breathing muscles, taps into calm “rest and digest” mode, and reduces neck, back, and upper chest tension. If you’re always chest breathing, you’re more likely to battle headaches, concentration problems, and general tension.

How to Test and Fix Your Breath

Want to see how you’re breathing?

  • Stand up, put one hand on your belly and one on your chest
  • Take three big breaths—most of the movement should come from your belly, not your chest
  • If this is tough, try the same while lying on your back (most people do it properly this way)

Daily practice can retrain your body. Focus on belly breathing during exercise and daily activities. Also, strengthen your diaphragm and abs, and regularly stretch muscles connected to the thorax.

Breathe deeply, relax, and enjoy the difference in energy, clarity, and calm!

For personalized strategies on breathwork and holistic fitness, see:
The Ultimate Guide For A Holistic Exercises And Fitness Program
https://www.solcorefitness.com/the-ultimate-guide-for-a-holistic-exercises-and-fitness-program/


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The 3 Reasons Why Boot Camps Wreck Your Body!

Fitness boot camp injury prevention, safe group exercise Santa Fe

The 3 Reasons Boot Camps Miss the Mark (and Wreck Your Body)

Most fitness boot camps promise fast results and endless motivation—but the reality is that they usually bring plateaus, frustration, and more injuries than improvements. After two decades as a personal trainer, it’s clear: these environments rarely deliver safe, lasting change.

1) Pushing People Far Past Their Capacity

Jumping from sedentary living to max-intensity workouts isn’t a smart progression. Sally, for example, is active but mostly sedentary, then suddenly thrown into a high-intensity, one-size-fits-all boot camp. The result? Pain, exhaustion, and risk—not the strength and physique she hoped for.

2) No Thorough Evaluation

A quick body fat test is not an evaluation. Without deeply understanding each person’s history, injuries, and goals, real risk factors get missed. Issues like back pain, compressed discs, tight fascia, or underlying patterns are ignored—not safe or productive.

3) No Individual Adaptation

Movement is good, but random, unadapted movement in a crowded class isn’t a recipe for success. To truly progress, each person needs a structured plan, progressing from stability to strength and flexibility based on their current state and future goals.

What Makes a Group Class Actually Safe and Effective?

SolCore Fitness’s Group Exercise Classes are built on holistic assessment and progressive, biomechanically sound programming. Every participant is evaluated, each movement is biomechanically purposeful, and adaptation is a constant. The results? Real pain relief, improved posture, body awareness, and sustainable strength—without the wreckage.

Looking to lose pain, build posture and strength, and actually enjoy your fitness journey?
Group Exercise Classes:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/group-exercise-classes/

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How Adding a Vacation to Your Exercise Program Boosts Weight Loss, Energy, and Motivation

Exercise, vacation, mind-body recovery, healthy lifestyle Santa Fe

Why Taking a Vacation Is a Fitness Superpower

Going on vacation isn’t just fun—it’s a science-backed way to break through plateaus, recharge motivation, and even drop stubborn pounds. Many people return from relaxing trips energized, lighter, and excited to push ahead with new goals.

The Power of Recovery—Don’t Skip It!

Fitness gains happen when the body adapts to challenge—and adaptation only takes place with proper rest and downtime. Overloading the system with nonstop workouts leads to stagnation, injury, and burnout. Scheduling “off” cycles allows both body and mind to heal, grow, and return stronger.

How to Use Periodization, Rest, and Fun for Results

  • Cycle workouts: Don’t repeat the same intensity; alternate heavy, moderate, and restorative sessions.
  • Schedule regular breaks: Give yourself permission for days and weeks off, especially after a tough phase.
  • Make vacation active and nourishing: Explore new places, try outdoor activities, and focus on relaxation—not rigid routines.
  • Let the mind and body adapt: Rest activates the parasympathetic nervous system, the body’s repair and rejuvenation mode.

The outcome: more lasting results, less stress, greater motivation, and genuine whole-being fitness.

For guidance on smart exercise cycles, recovery, and building a lifestyle that delivers sustainable results:
Personalized Workout Page
https://www.solcorefitness.com/personalized-workout-program/

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Do You Have an Exercise Program? (Spring Edition)

Spring fitness, structured exercise program, injury prevention Santa Fe

Why Spring Movement Demands a Real Exercise Program

Santa Fe’s wild weather inspires people to get moving—but that rush outside comes with risk. Most returning hikers, bikers, and runners are unexpectedly de-conditioned, leading to a spike in injuries each spring.

The Danger of Weekend Warrior Syndrome

Winter inactivity, extra food, and a few “get up and move!” moments don’t prepare the body for intense activity. Without an individualized, balanced program, jumping into high-intensity (or popular, one-size-fits-all) workouts may do more harm than good.

Build a Foundation—Don’t Improvise Your Health!

A structured, custom exercise program assesses your goals, corrects imbalances, and preps you for the activities you actually want to enjoy. SolCore Fitness’s programs guide every client through stability, activation, and progressive strength—protecting against pain and boosting energy for the entire year.

Want fewer injuries, better posture, and a stronger, more active spring and summer?

For custom, expert-guided fitness programs in Santa Fe:
Group Exercise Classes
https://www.solcorefitness.com/group-exercise-classes/

Or check out all of our other services.

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