Mobility Training

How Do You Eat an Elephant? One Bite at a Time

Getting “fired up” at the start of a new health or fitness program is fantastic—the initial motivation is like fuel that propels you forward. But as research and experience show, progress comes not from motivation alone, but from consistent, manageable steps and the right approach to goal-setting and progress.

Why Consistency Matters Most

The real challenge comes after the excitement fades. It’s easy to stumble into a dip or plateau, where progress feels slow or invisible. This is where dedication and small habits shine:

  • Consistency is the single most important factor in reaching long-term goals. Whether it’s working out a few times a week, stretching daily, or choosing healthier meals, those small steps compound like interest—building real change over time.
  • Forget perfection or “all-or-nothing” thinking. Sustainable success comes from showing up, doing what you can, and letting your routine become second nature.

The Mindset Shift: Managing the Struggle

Anything worthwhile requires a little struggle. But struggle is an opportunity—a chance to learn, adapt, and grow stronger.

  • A growth mindset lets you view setbacks as learning moments, not failures. Instead of quitting during tough times, persistent habits get you through the low points, keeping you on track for those breakthrough moments.

As the saying goes: It doesn’t get easier; it becomes more manageable.

Progress Is Built, Not Found

You may not see results immediately, and progress can seem frustratingly slow. But each bite-sized step—each workout, healthy choice, or positive act—gets you closer to your goal. Research confirms that habit formation and long-term progress are fueled by discipline, realistic goals, and self-compassion—not motivation alone.

Explore structured programs for consistent, manageable progress:
Personalized Workout Program

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Personal Training Success Story Santa Fe – Brian DeBenedetti

Brian DeBenedetti lower back pain personal training testimonial

My name is Brian DeBenedetti, and I teach construction skills to young adults earning their GED along with a construction certification. I’ve always been tall, athletic, and (honestly) sometimes clumsy, working in the trades most of my life. For as long as I can remember, my lower back was always giving me trouble.

I tried every modality I could find—yoga, acupuncture, you name it. Nothing truly helped me consistently maintain my lower back health or let me get out of bed pain-free, enjoy life, and keep teaching. SolCore Fitness has been the best thing I’ve found.

Ekemba is sometimes a little bit like a drill sergeant, but I needed that. He keeps you on task, giving clear, constant directions for every pose, so you actually learn how to multitask and move with precision. He’s consistent, focused, and everyone likes him. Kim was great too. SolCore Fitness has truly worked for me, helping me overcome back issues and improve my daily life.

Why Brian’s Results Matter—Science of Moving Beyond “Quick Fixes” for Back Pain

Chronic lower back pain often stems from years of imbalance, poor posture, and repetitive strain.

  • Yoga and acupuncture may offer temporary relief, but evidence shows that consistent, structured exercise programs focused on mobility, core strength, and active guidance create long-term improvement and pain prevention.
  • Expert-led sessions like those at SolCore Fitness use biomechanical cues, real-time corrections, and individualized progressions—helping students learn to move smarter, not just harder.
  • Regular participation and accountability build habits that last, restoring function and resilience far beyond the gym.

Brian’s story highlights that sustainable results require more than “good intentions.” Knowledgeable coaching, consistent effort, and holistic implementation transform daily movement and lifelong health.

Explore personal training for pain-free movement, core strength, and lasting relief:
Personal Training and Manual Therapy

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What is “Being Strong”

core strength mobility training longevity

Many people over 50 looking to “get strong” start by joining a gym, using machines, walking the treadmill, or doing isolated exercises. But real functional strength isn’t about how much weight you curl or how long you spend at the gym—it’s how much of your body you can access, connect, and use in harmony.

What Does “Strong” Really Mean?

True strength means your feet, legs, core, and upper body all work together. If you have back pain, rounded posture, or poor muscle patterns, isolated exercises like biceps curls only increase dysfunction and never address the root.

  • Strength is connection: being able to move, stabilize, and coordinate all your muscles for daily activities and resilience.

The Science: Functional Strength Training

Research shows that functional strength training (multi-joint and multi-planar movements) benefits people at every age, especially middle age and older adults.

  • It builds mobility, joint health, and overall movement confidence.
  • Regular training counters muscle loss, preserves bone density, and improves energy.

Advanced Approaches for Lasting Strength

SolCore’s approach uses:

  • Myofascial stretching for whole chains of muscle and fascia—building not just isolated strength but global tissue balance.
  • ELDOA for joint space and resilience.
  • Global stretching, primal movements, and awareness for truly integrated, lasting functional strength.

Balanced, science-based routines help your body normalize, heal, and stay strong for life.

Explore specialized functional training and holistic exercise science:
Global Strengthening (GS): The 7 Primal Movements Exercises

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The Amazing Benefits of Keeping Fit for People in Santa Fe!

Regular exercise is much more than burning calories. Fitness improves the way your body and mind feel at any age—and research shows it’s even more essential than just losing weight. Check out eight trusted benefits:

Eight Trusted Benefits

  • Healthy Heart: Exercise strengthens your heart, improves circulation, and lowers your risk of heart disease.
  • Stronger Muscles and Bones: Workouts build muscle, increase bone density, and prevent injuries—especially for older adults.
  • Fat Burn and Calorie Boost: Fitness increases metabolism, helping your body burn calories even when you’re resting.
  • Lower Stress: Movement triggers endorphins, relaxes your mind, and helps you shake off anxiety after a tough day.
  • Better Sleep: Exercise helps you sleep deeper and recover faster—so you feel refreshed.
  • Improved Focus: Workouts boost brain circulation, helping you think faster and stay clear-headed.
  • Lower Blood Pressure: A fit heart pumps blood more efficiently, which naturally lowers blood pressure.
  • Better Posture: Regular fitness keeps your spine healthy and your posture strong, keeping back pain away.

Fitness for Every Age and Level

Anyone can practice fitness. Whether it’s flexibility, strength, or movement, there’s a program for every age and every body. Consistency brings long-term benefits—inside and out!

Explore group exercise classes and holistic programs in Santa Fe:
Group Exercise Classes

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Why Stretch or Warm Up, Santa Fe? Discover What Science Says

dynamic stretching warm-up Santa Fe

Watch this video to find out.

Warming up before activity isn’t optional—it’s the secret to safer movement, better performance, and long-term results. But not all stretching is created equal. Science shows that dynamic stretching is best for warm-ups, while static stretching fits only after exercise.

Dynamic vs Static Stretching: Key Differences

  • Dynamic stretching uses active, moving exercises (arm circles, leg swings, walking lunges) to get muscles and joints ready for action. This kind of stretching:
  • Excites proprioceptors (the sensors that tell your brain where your body is in space), making muscles respond quickly and efficiently.
  • Increases blood flow, muscle temperature, flexibility, and coordination—all boosting athletic performance and reducing injury risk.
  • Rehearses movement patterns, prepping your nervous system for real-world moves.
  • Static stretching (toe-touch and hold, side bends, hamstring stretch) is slow and sustained—holding a muscle in one position for 15–90 seconds.
  • Works after activity, relaxing muscles and easing tension.
  • If done before a workout, static stretching can actually trigger a mild stress response, causing muscles to lengthen and weaken—reducing power, strength, and reaction time. Static stretching before exercise occasionally raises injury risk, and can undermine performance.

The Gold Standard: Myofascial Stretching

  • Myofascial stretching is an advanced form of stretching that targets the connective tissue (fascia) linking muscles and joints throughout the body.
  • Unlike basic dynamic or static stretches, myofascial stretching balances tension across muscle chains, restores mobility, and optimizes alignment.
  • Best for long-term results: higher flexibility, movement confidence, and injury prevention—all in one.

How To Warm Up Like a Pro

  • Start every session or activity with 5–10 minutes of low-intensity movement (walking, light jogging, jumping rope).
  • Add dynamic stretches—arm circles, walking lunges, trunk rotations, hip, and shoulder swings.
  • Save static stretches for after exercise—when relaxation and resetting muscle length is the priority.
  • Blend in myofascial stretching for complete mobility and long-term functional gains.

Explore myofascial stretching and programs designed for Santa Fe’s active community:
Myofascial Stretching: The Best Total Body Active Stretches

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Personal Training Success Story Santa Fe Janette

personal training chronic pain recovery testimonial Santa Fe

Being in the fitness field, it’s impossible not to get attached to the people you work with. Some of my greatest joys come from getting to know each person, hearing their stories, and seeing the progress they make. Janette’s journey especially exemplifies this process—her determination inspires me daily.

Janette, about 40 years old, arrived at SolCore Fitness with the body and spine of someone much older. She was in constant, semi-debilitating pain. Her duty to family and hope for relief kept her going, even through days when just making it home meant collapsing without energy for her loved ones.

She sought help from numerous practitioners—chiropractors, massage therapists, and physical therapists—but her pain only grew worse. Not even routine tasks, like bathing her daughters, were manageable. Unable to take pain meds and unwilling to risk spinal fusion, Janette tried acupuncture and found a measure of relief before she reached out to SolCore.

On her initial visit, the wall stretch brought tears to her eyes as tissue was realigned. This pain was tough, but necessary; healing often requires working through discomfort where tissue has “healed out of order.” Janette showed remarkable commitment, doing every stretch and exercise, even at home. At one point, her husband questioned why she kept going; her answer was simple—“Because this has to work.”

Over time, her pain faded. Janette is now lifting, running, and—most importantly—present and active with her family. Her advice: “Keep going! Take it one class at a time, do your homework, and when you don’t feel like going, go anyway. Even a little bit can make a dramatic difference.”

Q&A With Janette

  • What made you decide to start a program?
    “I was sick and tired of pain. I’d tried everything, but your program spoke to me. I dove in.”
  • Previous strategies?
    “Lifting, running, acupuncture, and PT—none worked. I was told nothing could be done.”
  • Biggest achievement?
    “My pain is almost gone. I can play with my kids, work out, and enjoy life.”
  • Favorite and least favorite exercise?
    “Love lifting. The lower/mid thoracic ELDOA’s are tough but essential.”
  • Current challenges and goals?
    “Continuing posture correction and losing 10–20 lbs gained during inactivity.”
  • What do you like best about SolCore?
    “It works! The personal attention and well-designed program make sense.”
  • Advice to members?
    “Be consistent, do your homework—even just a bit helps.”
  • Advice to those on the fence?
    “Just do it. Commit for at least three months to feel real change. If it can work for me, it can work for anyone.”

Janette’s Extra Thoughts:

As a nurse and lactation consultant, Janette faced degenerative disc disease and repeated injuries. At 39, she was facing cervical fusion. “SolCore was a last desperate search. I didn’t want surgery—I wanted my life back.” After trying everything and feeling depressed, Janette felt blessed to find Ekemba and SolCore. “Ekemba saved my life. I recommend this to everyone—family, co-workers, and friends. ELDOA keeps you strong and prevents disability with age. The aging process shrinks us; fitness rebuilds our bodies and keeps us moving.”

Explore personal training and chronic pain solutions for lasting recovery:
Personal Training and Manual Therapy

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Superfoods Which Are the Most Super, Santa Fe?

best superfoods nutrition Santa Fe

Every magazine talks about “superfoods”—but what’s the science, and which superfoods really help? Superfoods are foods packed with essential vitamins and minerals, and some truly live up to the hype. Here are nine proven picks you should include in your diet:

The Shortlist of Super Superfoods

  • Acai: High in antioxidants for cancer and heart disease prevention. Juice, powder, or frozen—great in yogurt and smoothies.
  • Goji Berries: Packed with Vitamin C and used for immune, circulation, and vision support.
  • Kefir: Creamy and probiotic-rich to boost digestion and immunity.
  • Hemp Seeds: Loaded with protein, key amino acids, fatty acids, magnesium, and potassium.
  • Chia Seeds: High in protein, fiber, calcium, and omega-3s—easy in smoothies or oatmeal.
  • Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and brain-boosting. Extracts offer higher curcuminoid benefits.
  • Cacao Powder: Flavonoid-rich for heart and brain health. Choose minimally processed (not alkalized).
  • Maca Powder: From Peru, adds vitamins B, C, and E; good for energy.
  • Black Garlic: Twice the antioxidants and antimicrobial properties of regular garlic.

Bonus: Next-Level Supplements

Whey Protein

Whey provides a powerhouse of bioavailable amino acids—critical for muscle repair, immunity, and metabolic health. Choose grass-fed, concentrate forms with minimal fillers for the best results.

Colostrum

Nature’s “mother’s milk,” colostrum enhances immune function, GI integrity, and recovery. Find grass-fed options with bioavailability for best absorption.

Amino Acids (EAAs)

While BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) offer fast-acting energy and delay muscle fatigue, a supplement with all essential amino acids (EAAs) is superior for muscle recovery, growth, and overall tissue health.

  • EAAs provide all nine building blocks for muscle protein synthesis, not just the three in BCAA formulas.
  • EAAs also support mood, immunity, and metabolism—ideal for recovery after workouts, tissue repair, and maintaining strength over time.

Summary Table:

SupplementKey RoleWhy It Matters
Whey ProteinProtein source, immunity, recoveryAll-around replenishment
ColostrumImmune and gut healthFaster healing, anti-inflammatory
EAAsMuscle growth, energy, full recoveryComplete tissue repair, better than BCAAs

BCAAs can help prevent muscle breakdown and delay fatigue, but for true recovery and muscle building, EAAs (which include BCAAs as well as six other essentials) are more effective and comprehensive.

The Payoff

Some superfoods are just “superfakers,” but these nine foods and three supplements can dramatically boost your health, energy, and recovery—especially when personalized for your metabolic needs.

Explore more nutrition, supplement, and holistic health resources for Santa Fe:
Holistic Nutrition & Healthy Weight Program

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Hey Santa Fe! Get Off Your Tush! Sitting is the New Smoking, but is Standing the Answer?

sitting vs standing health Santa Fe

Is Sitting Really the New Smoking?

It’s no secret that modern life means too little movement. Research shows that sitting more than six hours a day leads to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, disability, and early death. The American Cancer Society’s 18-year study of 123,000 subjects found higher death rates in those who sat longest. It’s why excess sitting is now compared to smoking for its negative health impact.

Are Standing Desks the Best Solution?

Pros and Cons Backed by Science

Standing desks have surged in popularity. Companies like UpDesk report massive sales growth, and studies confirm that breaking up sitting time can reduce musculoskeletal discomfort, boost energy, and improve posture. Interventions with sit-stand desks show improvements for some markers of cardiometabolic and vascular health—especially when combined with overall movement.

Yet, evidence also points out limits: calorie burn from standing is minimal. Long hours of standing can lead to enlarged veins, compressed spine, and even reduced productivity if done excessively. Dr. Jos Verbeek highlights that the research on standing desks is “fashionable and not proven good for your health,” and studies caution against standing all day.

Risks of Prolonged Standing

Spending too much time on your feet can be as problematic as over-sitting. It raises vein risks, can worsen lower back pain, and doesn’t solve underlying inactivity.

What Can Santa Fe Actually Do?

Movement Is the Real Solution

Real progress comes from changing habits—not just switching from sitting to standing. Experts recommend moving every 30 minutes: sit for 20, stand for 8, and use 2 minutes to stretch or walk. Structural tweaks like placing the printer farther away or restricting easy elevator access help encourage movement. In long-lived regions like Okinawa, Japan, people sit on the ground, get up often, and walk as a primary mode of transportation—all proven to support cognitive health and longevity.

Walking is the Ultimate Medicine

Decades of research confirm what Blue Zones like Okinawa show: regular walking directly counters the negative health impact of sedentary life and is tied to extended lifespan and cognitive health.

The Balanced Truth for Santa Fe

While standing desks aren’t the full answer, neither is constant movement. The healthiest approach is intentional activity: reduce sitting, use standing as a tool, and make walking, stretching, and frequent posture changes a normal part of every workday.

Learn more about posture, mobility, and movement with Global Postural Stretching:
Global Postural Stretching

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How ELDOA’s Increase Spinal Mobility And Get Rid Of Neck And Shoulder Pain

ELDOA for spinal mobility and neck/shoulder pain Santa Fe

Why Thoracic Spine Mobility Is Key for Neck and Shoulder Health

Many people struggle with rounded shoulders, difficulty with good posture, and recurring pain during movement. The underlying culprit is often poor thoracic spine mobility—an issue that leads to compensatory stress in the lower back and shoulders and amplifies neck, shoulder, and rotator cuff pain.

ELDOA Method—Science Behind Improved Mobility and Pain Relief

What are ELDOA Exercises?

ELDOA (“Etirements Longitudinaux avec Decoaptation Osteo-Articulaire”) are unique, self-applied postural exercises developed by Guy Voyer, DO. Each posture is designed to create targeted decompression in a specific spinal joint, increasing space, rehydrating discs, reducing pressure, and restoring joint alignment.

  • The thoracic spine is crucial for rotation, flexion, extension, and deep breathing.
  • ELDOA postures train mobility while stabilizing areas that need protection—preventing the lower back and scapula from compensating for lost motion.
  • Mobilizing the thoracic spine properly prevents excessive lumbar spine movement, which is built for stability—not big rotations or repeated bending.
  • Benefits include improved posture, relief from disc compression, increased lung volume, healthier shoulders, and overall freedom of movement.

ELDOA for Neck and Shoulder Pain—What the Research Shows

Techniques and Results

  • ELDOA postures for the cervical and thoracic spine address neck pain, tension, and instability, while also targeting scapular health for shoulder mobility and pain reduction.
  • Correct use of thoracic mobility (with ELDOAs) protects both the spine’s architecture and shoulder mechanics—helping clients avoid hypermobility, ligament laxity, and chronic compensation pain.
  • Holding ELDOA postures for 1 minute daily can deliver measurable improvement in pain, flexibility, and strength for most joints in the upper back and neck.

Practice, Posture, and Progress for Santa Fe

The true power of ELDOA is conscious, precise mobility: straightening and lengthening the spine, deepening breath, and rolling the shoulders back—without sacrificing lumbar or shoulder stability. By focusing on posture while developing spinal mobility, residents of Santa Fe can minimize kyphosis, shoulder discomfort, and persistent neck pain.

Your “Do” list:

  • Use ELDOA postures for thoracic extension and alignment
  • Deepen your breath with rib expansion and upright posture
  • Combine mobility training with core stability exercises

Your “Don’t” list:

  • Avoid aggressive, compensatory lumbar twisting
  • Don’t let increased thoracic mobility contribute to daily posture rounding
  • Don’t skip core and scapular stability drills to support gains from ELDOA

Discover targeted mobility, flexibility, and postural solutions:
ELDOA: The Ultimate Spine And Joint Exercises

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Personal Training Success Story Santa Fe – Pat Murphy

Group exercise, personal training success Santa Fe

Meet Pat Murphy — Proof That It’s Never Too Late

If you’ve ever met Pat Murphy, you know her for her glowing, contagious smile. It’s easy to think she’s never had a care in the world, but in reality, Pat’s faced her share of challenges—and come through stronger. After many years working in South Beach Miami as a social worker—supporting individuals through some of life’s hardest moments—Pat made a bold decision. She and her husband Lou packed up and started fresh in Santa Fe, where she focused on new beginnings and even became a wedding officiant.

Finding Strength and Relief

Pat shared, “I started to notice that I was getting weaker and starting to have a lot more pain. Many of my friends were headed towards surgeries and illness, and I definitely didn’t want that.” She’d tried Pilates, Yoga, and standard group exercise, but nothing felt right. “They didn’t know how to address what was really going on, and I was honestly afraid I’d get hurt.”

Everything changed after she heard about SolCore Fitness. “When I heard you speak, it really resonated with me and I knew it was for me,” Pat said.

Sticking With It—Celebrating the Wins

Starting was hard. “We were doing myofascial stretching for my hip flexors and it was tough because it was new and because I needed it. I honestly wondered if I’d quit.” But Pat didn’t quit—she kept showing up for herself, and the results speak for themselves. “The pain I was constantly in is pretty much gone. I feel so much stronger and I am really proud of myself each time I finish a class.”

When asked about her favorite exercise, Pat smiles again: “I love the 90/90/90. My hips feel so good and balanced after we do them.” As for her least favorite, she jokes, “Frogs. I know they’re good for me, but they’re hard!”

Why Group Training at SolCore Works

Pat credits the group atmosphere and expert trainers for her motivation. “Being in a group where everybody’s working hard is fantastic. The attention to detail and the knowledge that you guys provide is wonderful.” Her biggest advice for other members? “Just keep coming!” And for anyone on the fence about joining? “Just try it and see what you’re capable of.”

Looking to experience what Pat did, or curious about SolCore’s group model? Find out what makes the difference for so many by visiting our Group Exercise Classes page for more real success stories like Pat’s:
https://www.solcorefitness.com/group-exercise-classes/

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