North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women
John@BootCampRocks.com
3377 Covered Bridge Dr. W.
Dunedin, FL 34698
www.BootCampRocks.com
727-420-8139
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(PALM HARBOR, FL July 9, 2012) – Is it hot enough for you yet? We don’t mean just the sweltering temperatures, but also the debate that is heating up between the political candidates ahead of the November elections.
It’s true: constant bickering that is so often part of presidential races can be a stressful experience for voters. An Israeli study carried out in 2009 showed that even in democratic societies such as the United States, political campaigns and elections can cause an increased level of cortisol — a hormone secreted in times of stress.
“The campaign hasn’t even reached its full speed yet but you can’t open the newspaper or listen to the news without seeing or hearing disparaging remarks from both sides,” notes Kevin Carrier, owner of North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women. “And the more you hear about the economy, health care, and other hot-button issues that need to be resolved, the higher the level of cortisol that is being released.”
Carrier notes that pre-election campaigns are not the only stressful moments. Other times of the year, such as the tax filing deadline and, oddly enough, Super Bowl Sunday, also contribute to the spike in the stress levels.
“If you suffer from high levels of unmanaged stress, you are at an increased risk for developing serious illnesses,” Carrier points out. “That’s because cortisol prevents the release of chemicals that strengthen your immune system, lowering your ability to fight off infections. And because stressful situations can raise blood pressure, related conditions such as heart attacks and strokes can happen as well.”
As though all that isn’t bad enough, many stressed out people turn to food for comfort, which, in turn, could lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and several forms of cancer.
What can you do? Whatever the source of your anxiety is, physical activity is a great way to vent, Carrier says.
“Exercise produces endorphins- natural ‘feel good’ hormones that offset the damaging effects of cortisol,” he notes. “It also helps release emotional tension that is often at the root of stress and anxiety.”
Ready to de-stress yourself? “Begin with tension-busting moves such as breathing exercises, and some that release stiffness from all the major muscle groups in the body. Then, move on to more intense, endorphin-producing bouts that incorporate a cardio workout and strength training.” Carrier suggests.
While stress-inducing situations like elections only come every four years, you should stress-proof your body and mind by exercising regularly and continuously, he adds.
About North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women:
A former personal trainer, Carrier launched the North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women in Oct. 2007. Carrier specializes in weightloss for women and in working with women who “hate to workout”. Schedules and client testimonials are available at www.BootCampRocks.com. Carrier, a certified fitness boot camp instructor with 14 years of experience in the fitness industry, can be reached at John@BootCampRocks.com or 727- 420 – 8139.
Carrier, a certified fitness boot camp instructor with 14 years of experience in the fitness industry, can be reached at John@BootCampRocks.com or 727- 420 – 8139 and is available for media interviews on a wide range of topics related to health, wellness and fitness.