Scissors Lift

Posts Tagged ‘Don’

Grooming your dog’s nails is a very important part of maintaining healthy paws. All dogs need their nails trimmed on a regular basis, especially indoor dogs. Nails that grow too long can damage your pup’s feet (as well as your floors!) and cause traction problems. They can also become ingrown of left too long. A dog’s nails should just touch the floor when walking. If the nails are clicking on the floor or snagging in the carpet, it’s time for a pedicure. Most dogs need their nails trimmed once or twice a month. Many people are too intimidated to trim their dog’s nails, but it’s actually a simple procedure that only takes a few minutes, and leaves your dog looking and feeling great!

There are a few things you will need before you start your pedicure. You will need nail clippers, of course. There are few different types of nail clippers for dogs. For puppies or very small dogs, you can use regular human toenail clippers. For small to large dogs there are two main types of clippers: a scissor-like device with blades on each “shear” and a “guillotine-blade” type, which is more common. You should try out both types and see which you find most comfortable and confident in using. Which ever you choose, it is very important to make sure that the blades are sharp. Be sure to read the instructions for the type of clippers you are using, as each type has its own instructions as to which way the clippers should be held. You may want to have a pair of scissors handy, to trim the hair around nails and in between pads. This hair matts easily and will make your pedicure go smoother if trimmed. You can also use dog hair clippers to get to the hair all the way down into your dog’s paws. You may also want a grinding tool, such as Pedipaws, to file your dog’s nails smooth afterwards. Nails can be quite sharp after being clipped, and by using a grinder you can dull them down. Not all dogs will allow you to use a grinder, but walking your dog for a while on concrete is just as affective. For dogs who hate nail clippers, you can also use a grinder instead of clippers to completely file nails. Care must be taken to avoid grinding too short, which will make them bleed. It is also a good idea to have some sort of styptic powder or other blood stopping agent on hand, just in case you cut a nail too short. A non-slip mat can help your dog avoid injury, and you’ll want to have treats to give your dog to reinforce nail-cutting as a positive experience. You can add nail polish that is made specifically for dogs for a finishing touch.

The first step is to place your dog on a raised surface, using a non-slip mat. If your dog is squirmy, it would be a good idea to have someone help hold your dog while you cut its nails. If your dog has excessive hair around its toes or pads, trim it away. Now you can trim the nails. Lift up the dog’s foot and slide the trimmer over the nail. Stay with in the white part of the nail. Squeeze the handle of the trimmer smoothly and firmly. Don’t try to pry the nail off: when the trimmer is used properly, the nail should just pop off. Repeat this for each nail, on each foot. Don’t forget the dewclaws, on the inside of the leg, if your dog has them. These nails never touch the ground and wear down less rapidly than the others.

Take care not to cut past the white part of the nail. If you cut too far, you will cut into the quick, which is very painful to the dog and will cause bleeding. The quick contains nerves and blood vessels that supply the blood to the nail. If your dog has dark nails, it is harder to tell how far to cut. To make it easier, feel each nail. There is a “hook” on the underside of each nail, a slight indentation where the excess nail has grown from the quick. You can feel this by running your fingernail just on the undersides of the dog’s toenails. There is a slight bump you will hit, and beyond the bump is the excess toenail where there is no quick. This is the part you trim off. If you do happen to cut past the quick, and your dog’s nail is bleeding, apply pressure using a styptic powder or pen to stop blood flow for at least one full minute and the bleeding should stop. If you do not have a styptic pen or powder, several household items may be used, such as flour, cornstarch, baby powder, sugar, or cotton. Once the bleeding has stopped, avoid wiping the blood clot off of the tip of the nail or it could start bleeding again.

The next step is optional. If you choose to file your dogs nails, make sure you let the grinder run for a few seconds before using it, to allow your dog time to get used to the sound and look of the device. Hold your dog’s paw firmly in the “hand shake” gesture, separate a nail and hold up the grinding tool sideways. File each nail for a few seconds, rocking the grinder back and forth. Make sure that you do not file for too long, the nails have just been trimmed and are already short. Continue for each nail, on each foot. If your dog does not like grinders, you can just take it for a stroll on concrete to file the sharp edges.

Now for the finishing step: polishing your dog’s nails. First, inspect your dog’s nails for good health before you polish. If your dog has brittle, cracked or split nails, don’t use polish- it may aggravate the condition. Rub a salve on their nails and wait a few weeks. Never use human nail polish on dogs. It contains formaldehyde and other chemicals that are not safe for dogs. The same goes for human nail polish remover. There is a very wide selection of dog friendly nail polish that you can easily find online or in pet stores. It will be easier to do this step if your dog is sleepy, happy, and relaxed before you start. The less they wiggle, the easier it will be. Sit on the floor with your dog in your lap and start painting. Don’t worry of you get some in their fur. You can always use a remover pad to get it off. A nice puppy massage or scratch behind the ears is usually enough to get your pup to hold still long enough to let the polish dry. When the polish starts to chip, simply remove with dog-safe remover pads.

Always give plenty of dog treats while giving a pedicure. Also, praise them for being good. This keeps them happy, comforts them, and turns nail trimming into a positive experience. It may take your dog some time to get used to having their nails cut- most dogs will not like it at first. The more you do it, the less stressful it will be and eventually you will have a nice easy way to bond with your dog. If your dog is extremely upset by your attempts to cut its nails or is growling or trying to bite, you should take it to a professional to avoid further stress to yourself or your dog. A vet or groomer is better equipped to handle this kind of situation.

Anyone who has committed to a weight loss and exercise program would love to have a beautiful abdomen. The abdomen is generally the toughest area to conquer, and often the last to see results. Don’t forget that the abdominal muscles support a healthy back as well.

It is ludicrous to begin an exercise program unless your diet is geared for results. You can indulge in your favorite ice cream or cheese cake, however it should be an occasional treat, not a staple. Here are some reminders to help with your battle against the bulge.

Carbo loading is a well known practice for distance runners, however if you are not exercising heavily everyday, the excess sugar will convert into stored fat, and adipose cells are quite prevalent around the mid section. Watch your carbohydrate intake. A diet filled with carbohydrates will add additional weight to the abdomen.
An unhealthy diet will increase unwanted fat storage. Steer away from fast and fried food. Baked or broiled items are much healthier. Meals should be geared toward health and energy. Choosing food wisely will benefit any exercise routine.
Milk products can cause bloating in the abdominal area.
Avoid alcohol. Along with the other negative results due to excessive alcohol consumption, it will cause weight gain.
Do not skip meals. Missing meals can lead to overindulgence and accumulation of unhealthy fat.
Eat well balanced meals consisting of protein, fat and carbohydrate in sensible quantities.
Snacks should consist of vegetables, nuts, fruit and yogurt. Candy bars and chips contain too many empty calories.
Learn to read labels. Prepared food that is ‘low sugar’ or ‘low fat’ may contain flavoring agents that will retard your efforts to lose weight.
Eat smaller meals and more frequently. This will help digestion and increase fat burning.
Drink lots of water and steer away from carbonated sodas.

Once you have your diet under control, it is time to start an exercise routine. I have found that strengthening the torso, and getting abdominal muscles taunt is dependent on dedication, and the order in which exercises are performed. Do not get discouraged. During all of these routines, keep your abdominal muscles pulled in and your back straight. Always remember to breathe.

Triangle

Stand up and spread your legs apart at shoulder length. Bend knees slightly. Allow our left arm to drop to your side and lift your right arm over your head. Gently bend at the waist, to the left. Reach out slowly, with extended arm, three or four times. Do not bend any farther than is physically comfortable. Return to starting position, and with legs still spread and knees bent, repeat the process to the right. Do this cycle about five times slowly. Increase the reps when you feel ready.

Torso Twist

With legs spread and knees bent, stretch arms out at shoulder level. Starting with the left side, gently twist the torso to the right and reach out with the left hand. Return to the center position, and repeat the process to the left. For best results, use a sweeping motion with hips held straight. This will isolate the love handles. Repeat this cycle 20 times.

Oblique crunch

Lie on the floor and support your neck with hands behind your head. Bend the left knee and roll it over the right leg. Gently lift your head as you would performing a crunch. Tighten the oblique’s during this exercise. Repeat this 20 times. Now place the right leg over the left and repeat the process. This is a great way to develop definition.

Bicycle

Lie on the floor with hands behind your head.  Lift legs slightly off the floor, and lift head. Beginning with left leg, gently push leg out. Twist torso so that the right elbow is pointing toward left leg. Return to starting position and repeat using right leg. Repeat this cycle about 20 times. Increase reps when ready.

Torso stretch

Lie on floor with hands behind your head. Lift legs in the air with toes pointing up. Lift head off the floor and balance on your buttocks in a scissor position. Gently reach for toes, one side then the other. Repeat 20 times.

Remember to keep your abdominal muscles pulled in and tight during the day, while you walk, sit or stand. Breathe in deeply, and pull the stomach muscle in tight. Hold this position as long as it is comfortably possible. Exhale and repeat. The more frequently you perform this routine, the easier it will become to keep your muscles taut and beautiful.

Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hair
What are the Symptoms of Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hairs?
The symptoms of razor bumps and ingrowing hair are unsightly red or darkened, painful ‘bumps’ which can lead to ‘scarring’ in severe cases.
What Causes Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hairs?
This occurs when curly hair grows out of the skin, curls round and then grows back into the skin. This happens if the hair is cut too short. Normal hair cut too short will create the same problem. They result in the medical condition pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB). An ideal shave cuts the hair flush with the surface of the skin and avoids any undue friction and/or irritation to the surrounding skin. If you suffer from razor bumps, ingrowing hair and shaving irritation, the chances are that you are pulling the skin too taut during the shave and the hairs are cut too short. Don’t pull the skin tight and see if it makes a difference!
People with PFB and razor bumps often have a great tendency to develop ingrown or curled under hairs, which get red, raised and tender. These bumps often leave dark marks on the skin for many months and sometimes even cause scarring.
Who Tends to Suffer with PFB?
While PFB can occur in all ethnic groups, it is most common in those with very curly hair and especially amongst African Americans.
What Treatments are Available?
Treatment of tough cases of PFB often requires special shaving equipment. In fact, some African American men have opted to wear a beard rather than be subject to the pain and embarrassment that often accompanies severe PFB. Special razors have been developed that cut the hair slightly longer than typical razors. These razors are available as part of an entire product line called the Bump Fighter ® Shaving System designed exclusively to help control PFB. In addition to these products, Skin food is also helpful for many PFB suffers.
For most people, these over the counter products provide sufficient control of shaving related problems. In fact, there are no prescription products targeted specifically for shaving related problems. Vitamin A related products such as Retin A (tretinoin) or Differin (adapalene) may be prescribed in some cases and work by helping exfoliate skin both on the surface and around the follicles. This results in less chance of the hairs getting caught in the skin and growing inward.
Shaving related problems usually respond well to a combination of proper shaving technique, equipment and products. For tough or treatment resistant shaving problems, it is always best to consult personally with a dermatologist.
What Can I do to Help Prevent the Problem?
In addition to the normal tips on shaving , you might find benefit in the use of certain shaving devices and products. The products and devices tend to be specialized towards serving either those people with tendencies toward ingrown hairs or those with a tendency towards razor bumps and PFB. A large majority of PFB sufferers and sufferers of shaving problems generally tend to be African American. The reason for this is that very curly hairs are most inclined to grow inward or curl around to form razor bumps.
Ingrown hairs and shaving irritation can be greatly improved by simply following the standard shaving tips found on any shaving website . No special shaving equipment is suggested, but experience has shown that re-usable metal shaving handles serviced with disposable blade cartridges tend to provide smooth shaves with less chance of causing shaving irritation and ingrown hairs than electric razors.
Blades should be changed at least once every ten days, more often if skin irritation persists. Disposable razor blades should are also best avoided when possible. Shaving gels are important in the treatment of this condition, as a good gel will minimize the friction associated with shaving and reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs and skin irritation.
Products that Can Help
One product I recommend is PFB VSH . This is a unique, cosmetically elegant roll-on gel formulated to aid in the relief of ingrown hairs, razor burn/bumps resulting from shaving, waxing, electrolysis and laser hair removal. PFB VANISH exfoliates skin cells to “lift ingrown hairs” above the skin line.
Skin food is another product that can be applied daily after shaving. It is effective at fighting ingrown hairs and helps calm redness associated with hair removal.
Shaving Rash
What is a Shaving Rash?
Shaving rash is more of a problem with men who have curly hair and is similar to ‘razor bumps’, the symptoms are unsightly red or darkened, painful ‘bumps’ which can lead to ‘scarring’ in severe cases.
How do you Prevent Shaving Rash?
To prevent shaving rash, do not stretch the skin as you shave. Hairs are most likely to grow inwards if you pull on the skin whilst shaving. The hairs pop out of the follicle when you pull the skin and after the cut the tip of the hair retracts into the follicle and curls into the follicle as it begins to grow. This causes the shaving rash and razor bumps.
What Relief is Available?
To achieve relief from these problems first check that the skin appears to be free from infection – angry red areas or spots are symptoms – if present, treat with an antiseptic solution or cream.
How do I Treat Ingrown Hairs?
If you can see ingrowing hairs, try to tease the tips of the hairs out of the skin. Soak a flannel in hot water and apply it to your skin for a few minutes. This should soften the hairs to enable you to pull the hair out of the ‘bump’ with a pair of fine tweezers. Cut the loose end with a pair of scissors.
You can refrain from shaving for a few days. Then cut the beard with scissors quite close to the skin. As the hair regrows, it should grow slightly straighter and not back into the skin. But remember when you continue to shave NOT to pull the skin too tight or shave against the grain of the beard.
The problems caused by shaving are often because of poor technique and the use of inferior, cheap products.
What Products are Available to Help Treat or Prevent Shaving Rash?
One product I recommend is PFB VSH . This is a unique, cosmetically elegant roll-on gel formulated to aid in the relief of ingrown hairs, razor burn/bumps resulting from shaving, waxing, electrolysis and laser hair removal. PFB VANISH exfoliates skin cells to “lift ingrown hairs” above the skin line.
Skin food is another product that can be applied daily after shaving. It is effective at fighting ingrown hairs and helps calm redness associated with hair removal.
Razor Burns
What are Razor burns?
Razor burns are burning sensations and irritation more often than not caused by applying too much pressure with the razor.
When this happens, you do not create a barrier between your face and the razor resulting in friction burns.
Prevention of Razor Burns
Use pre-shave oils and a high quality brush and soap to ensure a rich soapy barrier and do not apply too much pressure.
Use after shave balms or oils to soothe the skin.

Car Collectors Seek Storage Solution

Many car collectors share the same storage problem: space for their cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, jet skis, etc. Whether you have a garage, warehouse or shop, vehicle storage is a vital part of your space and extra space and is not cheap. Professionals, collectors, sportsmen, and hobbyists alike have all come to realize that the economical solution to vehicle storage is to stack your vehicles. This solution can be found in the new BendPak Four-Post Lift Model(s) HD-9ST / HD-9 / HD-9STX / HD-9XW / REVISION C. The space saving design of their 9,000-lb. capacity four-post lifts are ideal for vehicle storage in residential garages or commercial buildings. It also doubles as a great service lift for smaller shops who still want to do big business. No special foundation is required and the installation is a cinch. Optional casters enable you to roll the lift outside or wherever best suits your needs. About the size of a typical parking space, these lifts truly maximize valuable floor area. Use them for storing cars and trucks, ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis, golf carts, boats or just about anything else that needs to be off the ground.

You can finally make use of that wasted vertical space above your car. If you’ve got at least a standard 8‐foot ceiling, these lifts will work for you. Don’t make the mistake of calling these rugged lifts “hobby lifts.” Their expert engineers have packed this model with features that were previously only found on commercial-grade designs. Plus, it’s a BendPak, so you know it’s backed by over 40 years of experience and a reputation that carries just as much weight as their lifts. It shows that they are proud to have these HD-Series lifts in their lineup, just as sure as you will be proud to have one in your shop or garage.Features:

9,000 pound lifting capacity
Two different ramp lengths to choose
Two different lifting heights to choose
Runways include rail-kit for optional accessories
Electric/hydraulic power system
Single hydraulic cylinder underneath runway
Internal “Anti-Sway” slider blocks in each column
Oversized self-lubricating cable rollers
Features heavy-duty 3/8″ aircraft cable
Rugged 1-1/4″ roller axles
Multi-position safety locks in each column
Adjustable lock ladders
Ramps feature non-skid surface
Push‐button pneumatic safety release
Optional 4500-lb. capacity jack available (Model RJ-45)
ETL Approved

Brian Davis is an expert on Auto Repair Equipment and has written numerous articles on the Auto Repair Equipment industry. See all our storage solutions HERE

Hola and welcome to the second edition of The Chemical Reaction. First off, I did have an idea for this article and I had it all planned out but then I read a comment on my other article from some reader who shall remain unnamed who suggested I write my next article on overrated finishers, but they also assumed I would only include TNA finishers which in all honesty annoyed me a bit. So I wracked my brain trying to think of 10 finishers that are made out to be amazing when in factuality they aren’t that amazing. Many of the moves on here are performed by many different wrestlers both in WWE and TNA so I will also mention that. Well on we go, are you ready?

Finisher 10 : Double Arm DDT

In all honesty I do love the look of this move but I can’t actually imagine it doing much damage. One person I know who uses this is Mick Foley, I know there is probably lots more people who do use it as a finisher, this is at number 10 because it is very simple and wouldn’t do any damage at all, but it can be made to look quite cool, one such instance was when Foley performed it on Alex Shelley and he ended up kind of in a V shape, but then everything Shelley does is amazing so there you go.

Finisher 9 : Knock Out Punch/ Club

This finisher is just horrible, it isn’t even a finisher, it is just a punch in Big Shows case but a swinging club in Khali’s case. I don’t know why they took away Big Show’s choke slam from back in the day, I loved that move! I know it was simple and lots of the bigger wrestlers have a choke slam but why change the classics? In my opinion the knock out punch is just a horrible, horrible move.

Finisher 8 : Any Form Of Scissor Kick

Now here is one with lots of options that spring to mind. You could have Booker T’s scissor kick which seems to end a lot of matches surprisingly, I couldn’t imagine it doing very much damage at all and he has performed it awfully. Another version that springs to mind is Billy Gunn’s Fame-Asser from back in day(I know he has used it in TNA but I haven’t actually seen him fight so I can’t call it).

Finisher 7 : Big Boot

Whether it is Matt Morgan’s Carbon Footprint, Angelina Love’s Botox Injection or any other form of big boot, it should just be stopped. It isn’t a hard move to pull off and it looks horrible unless performed on a truly great wrestler who can sell it and make it look it amazing, but sadly in WWE and TNA those kinds of guys are far and few between. Get another finisher!

Finisher 6 : DDT

How many versions of this move are we going to have to see before it gets old? Well that’s a trick question because it has already gotten old for me. 2 wrestlers with this finisher spring to mind and that is Consequences Creed and Cody Rhodes but I know many, many, many wrestlers use it as a basis and that is what it is ok for. It is understandable starting off with it when you first begin wrestling but when you get better you really do need a better finisher. (I’m not sure if Rhodes still uses it, it has been a long time since I’ve seen him wrestle).

Finisher 5 : New Pedigree

I know this will no doubt cause some controversy and in the end that is what makes people read. But in all honesty I do believe Triple H’s new version of the pedigree is just horrible, I know it isn’t his fault, what with his bad knees and everything but I really could imagine the old version doing some real damage (I know, my brother nearly broke my nose when I was smaller using that move), but now it just wouldn’t do anything. For any of the newer wrestling watches who haven’t noticed the difference or have only seen the newer version I will explain both. The old version involved Triple H putting his opponent head in between his legs and he would lift them up a tad and fall straight down on their face while he had their arms hooked but now he starts the same way with their head in between his legs but instead he lifts them up pushes them away from him and lands on one knee, it just doesn’t look at all as devastating as it once did.

Finisher 4 : Code Breaker/ Back Stabber

Don’t get me wrong, I love any move that involves the knees connecting with an opponents body, I even have a one kneed face breaker as my finisher on TWG, well one of them, it is ok having it on a game as you can give it a really high damage but in reality I don’t think it would do any where near enough damage to put someone down for the pin or even put um down for any kind of count, it is not the kind of move that can really put someone to the floor as you could just recover just after impact and stand up straight, I know wrestlers don’t do that because they need to make it look awesome, but it just isn’t.

Finisher 3 : Styles Clash

I have no idea what this move is actually called, the only version I know is Aj’s, oh and that diva from WWE who does it too, I do love the way it looks and it does have potential to be modified (maybe form the top rope or some other high thing) but It causes no damage what so ever, the opponents body doesn’t even touch the floor, AJ absorbs all the impact into his knees which if he continues to do he will end up with rubbishy knees like Triple H.

Finisher 2 : Best Moon Sault Ever

As performed by Daniels (once known as Christopher Daniels, does anyone know why they changed it?).
In all fairness it is an awesome show of acrobatics but it just wouldn’t do any damage well not enough to be able to pin someone (I know I have said that a lot, but I am talking about if it was used on the Indy circuit). Daniels is up there with my top favourite wrestlers and I believe he truly is talented but the BME just doesn’t cut it for me.

Finisher 1 : wait for it, The Swanton Bomb

This should get a fair few comments, I love Jeff Hardy and I love everything he has done outside of wrestling (he is an accomplished artist and is also in a band), but I don’t think the Swanton bomb really has the damage doing ability, fair enough it looks flashy and is synonymous with him, but it could so easily go wrong and it has done in the past, I’ve got nothing more to say on this move.

Well there you have it, I’m sure you lot out there will have opinions whether contrasting or in agreement so I would like to know them! I think I speak for any kind of writer ever, receiving good comments is one of the best feeling ever and getting the negative ones help you improve so long as you take them on board and for everyone that commented on my other article thank you, it was appreciated very much indeed. Now if any of you have ideas for Articles you would like to see then just say, I have lots of my own ideas and so should be able to do my own thing for a while, but giving the fans what they want has always been my philosophy so yeah.

Now since I am a TNAddict through and through I will quickly talk about Slammiversary and my opinions on it. First I thought that Angelina would retain the title, she has not had it long enough. I was happy that suicide retained the X division title but I would of liked to have seen it go to one of the guns as they are my favourites, I think Abyss and Taylor Wilde’s match was really good though I am not entirely sure who won that( I live in the UK and so get PPVs aired to me on the Wednesday after), I only know the results from word of mouth really, I wanted Beer Money to become Champs again and they didn’t disappoint. I didn’t really care who won the match between Daniels and Douglas as they wouldn’t let Daniels go ever so that was an easy match to call. I was very, very surprised to hear that Angle won the KOTM match as I was certain it would go to Jarrett (Joe and Angle are possibly leaving and AJ already has a title). I really can not wait until I get to watch it.

Well this has been The Chemical Reaction to my most Overrated Finishers, hope you enjoyed, and Keep It Rockin’!

Have you ever wondered how you can make your Dodge achieve an off-road look without sacrificing its ride quality? Or how you could fit bigger and wider wheels in it quickly and hassle-free? Then the answer you’ve been looking for is the Dodge lift kits—a component that will give your Dodge a new look without sacrificing its performance.

There are actually two types of lift kits available for your Dodge ride—the body lift and the suspension lift. The body lift is designed to lift only the Dodge’s body from the frame. It raises the car’s body from only one to three inches. Although this kit does not increase the car’s ground clearance, it allows for taller tires and wider wheels to be installed in your car. This lift though is not the lift of choice of many off-roaders as it does not alter the suspension or improve travel. So, you might want to think twice before considering this type of lift.

The suspension lift is built for one key purpose—to raise the Dodge’s suspension for greater ground clearance. It increases the distance between the car’s axle and the ground for better travel. On an average, this lift will raise the car’s height to about four or six inches. But it can also go for as high as 18 inches. Although it is more costly than the body lift, it offers better ground clearance, vehicle handling, and height. So, if you are a serious off-roader, this lift is what you need 

Several manufacturers of these lift kits are available in the market today. They all ensure that their kits are made from high-standard materials to ensure tough and durable service. Most of them even see to it that only OEM materials are used in the lifts for guaranteed function. Of course, the lifts’ prices will vary depending on the type and model of the kit.

So, whether you choose to get the body lift or the suspension lift, what is important is that you choose the right lift kit best to your Dodge and your driving style. Don’t sacrifice your car’s performance for cheap, low quality lifts. The market provides you wide choices, so carefully weight your options before buying. Better yet, consult your mechanic for the right Dodge lift kits best fitted for your car and your budget.

First, let’s discuss repeat crunches. Repeat the crunches as described in part one of this topic but this time, your knees should not be bent. Keep your legs flat to the ground so as to avoid using your feet to boost the upper body into the sitting up position involved in crunches. Your hands should still be behind your head, with the fingers preferably intertwined to keep them from leaving that position due to the intensity of the exercises. Raise your torso off the ground for the next ten minutes or 50 times whichever is easier.

The pikes

Now this is where things get technical. Keeping your legs together raise them so that they almost form a 90 degree angle to the floor. With your arms straight out pointing towards the ceiling, raise your shoulders and attempt to touch your toes. You need not actually touch them but try to go as much as you can till the fingers can touch the toes. Your nether should be firmly placed on the floor otherwise they, since your buttocks have some muscles, will be the ones being worked out and not your rectis abdominis.

Once you have at least scrapped your toes or reached the extreme point your body can take, first lower your shoulders to the ground then, using your abdominal muscles, lower your legs too, gently, until they are flat on the ground. Don’t break but repeat this set for 20 to 25 times. On the last pike, leave your feet up in the air and do the crunches as defined before. You may lower your feet slightly towards the floor if this position is uncomfortable for doing the crunches.

The scissors

Without taking a break, lower your legs till they are one foot off the ground and ensure your hands are firmly locked behind your head. Lifting your upper body off the mat with your buttocks as a pivot, twist your torso to the left just as you bend your left leg. This should bring your left knee to almost touch your left elbow. The right leg should remain at its outstretched 12 inches off the ground position to maintain balance.

Immediately lower your left leg and torso to the starting position and repeat the ‘scissors’ motion for the right side of your body. This is why it’s called the scissors and is great for cranking out your abs. Try doing the ‘scissors’ for the next 25 reps or as far as you can push your body. With time you shall be hitting 100 of these reps easily with energy to spare.

The final blow

Just like you began the work out with, do a set of 50 crunches slowly so as to spread the heat and also to gently decelerate your body which was just near exploding. This is necessary as stopping instantly after the pikes may cause excruciating seismic-like spasms of pain for subjecting the abdominal muscles to an unusual activity. But as you repeat the exercises on a daily basis they will get used to the work out and in no time you will have some rock solid washboard abs to die for.

If you’ve been looking for a complete ab workout, you’ve come to the right place. With a combination of these ab exercises and a healthy diet, you can develop six pack abs that everyone will envy. It is important to remember to not hold your breath while performing these exercises, and that form is key. You don’t want to sacrifice quality for quantity.

When performing this ab workout routine, start off performing 20-25 reps per exercise. If you find this too difficult, lower the number of reps to something a little more comfortable for you. However, try to gradually increase your reps per set. You want the last few reps of your set to be a struggle. Give yourself 30-60 seconds between exercises to really feel a burn.

Cobra

Before any sort of exercise, it is important to stretch. The best way to stretch your abs is to perform a yoga pose called the cobra. Start off in a plank, or standard push-up, position. Relax your feet and point your toes behind you. Slowly walk your hands back toward your waist. Look up at the ceiling to get a good stretch. To increase the stretch, slowly turn your head toward your shoulder and try to look behind you.

Bicycle Pedal

One of the easier ab exercises is the bicycle pedal. Start in a seated position with your arm raised toward the ceiling. Lean back at about a 45 degree angle and extending your legs in an alternating fashion, as if you were pedaling a bicycle. Pedal each leg 20-25 times. If you’re finding it difficult to balance as you pedal, lower your hands to the floor.

Wide Knee Heal Raises

Start in a seated position and press your heals together as if you were stretching your groin. Now lie back and raise your butt off the ground. The important aspect to this ab exercise is to keep your knees spread as wide as you can. You’re going to want to kick your feet up as you raise off the ground; try not to do this. Concentrate on pushing your heals together and spreading your hips to widen the knees. You should really feel it in your lower abs.

Scissors

Start by lying on your back. Lift your left leg so that your heal is about 6 inches off the ground. Now raise your right leg as far as you can. Hold this position for about a 3 count. You’ll laugh when you realize how soon you start counting to 3 a little bit faster. Alternate legs in a scissor fashion. Try to do 25 reps. Don’t be afraid to take a break about half way through. This is a tough exercise, but you’ll be proud of yourself when you get through it and happy when you see the results.

In and Outs

There are a few variations to this exercise. First off, start off with your legs extended out in front of you and your feet lifted off the ground. Lean back at about at about a 45 degree angle. What you’re going to do is bring your knees in toward your chest. The variations to this ab exercise involve what you do with your arms. One way is to extend them straight up while you tighten your abs. You want to keep your chin and chest pointed up toward the ceiling as well to make the exercise more efficient. The second variation is to extend your arms outward, and when you bring your knees in, your bring your arms in as if you wanted to hug your knees. When you extend your legs back out, you bring your arms back to their original position. The third variation is the easiest of the three. To help maintain balance while bringing your knees in and out, place your palms down near your hips.

Y-Situps

Begin by lying on your back and spread your legs so that your body makes a Y-shape. Extend your arms straight up. Now do a situp and once you’re sitting straight up, reach over toward your left toes. Once you reach as far as you can, hold your abs tight and return to your lying position. Repeat the exercise, except now reaching for your right toes. To make this ab exercise a little more difficult, instead of extending your legs out, cross them like a pretzel. You’ll be able to tell the difference. Try to do 25 reps. During this exercise, inhale as you’re doing the situp, and exhale as you are returning to your original position. It’s also very important to hold your abs tight when returning to your original position.

Heal Ups

Start by lying on your back. Raise so that they’re pointing toward the ceiling. To do this ab exercise, you lift your butt off the ground as you imagine your heals kicking through the ceiling. You should really feel it in your lower abs. Side Bends If you’re looking to get rid of love handles, this ab exercise is for you. To perform a side bend, find a free weight that you’re comfortable holding for a longer period of time. What you’re going to do is hold the free weight at your side in your right hand, and lower it to about your knee. Then you’re going to use your oblique muscles on your left side to pull the free weight up to its original position. Try to do 10-12 reps and repeat on the other side. You want to try and not use your arm or shoulder to lift the free weight back up. This is where the comfort level of the weight comes into play. This ab exercise will help you get rid of love handles in no time.

Situp Twists

This ab exercise will probably resemble the picture that pops in your head when your hear the word situp. Start by lying on your back with your hands behind your ears. Place your feet on the floor. The closer you place your heals to your butt, the more difficult (better results) this ab exercise becomes. Now do a traditional situp, but when you get to the top of your situp, twist your right elbow to the inside of your left knee. Repeat the situp except twisting your left elbow to the inside of your right knee. Try to do 25-30 reps.

Core Twists

Start with your feet held about 6-10 inches off the ground. Make a fist with your left hand and grab it your right. What you’re going to do is twist your upper body and touch the ground on either side of your with your fist. Touching each side counts as one rep. Try and 25-30 reps to start out.

If you live in a storm-prone area, you should be used by now on what to do, where to go and what to have to be prepared for bad weather. However, if you’re not used to getting pummeled by high winds and hard rain, you probably don’t have an idea how best to face a storm situation.

For starters, storms do not just come without a warning. Weather stations monitor the atmosphere day in and day out. If a storm is possible, they will issue two types of warnings:

Storm watch – is issued when there is a possible storm in your area. You probably will be experiencing a dark, cloudy sky, an unusually windy day and some rain. The storm may or may not come, but this is the time to keep tuned to your local radio for news and updates.

Storm warning – is issued when a storm is headed toward your area. Try to stay indoors as much as possible. Or if residents are advised to evacuate to a safer place, go as early as you can. Don’t wait until the last minute to leave your house. By that time, the streets could be flooded and traffic is bad. You don’t want to be caught in your car in bad weather.

Blizzard – usually occurs in winter and means heavy snow, strong winds and wind chill. When a warning is issued, avoid traveling as much as possible and stay indoors. There is no use exposing yourself outdoors where you could get trapped in traffic or in locations where you will be difficult to reach or worse, find.

For all our technology, no one can stop a storm from coming. The only way to survive it is to be prepared to face the emergency. Things don’t always go bad during storms, but weather is unpredictable and anything can happen. To help you prepare for a storm emergency, here are a few tips:

Dress up.

Wear enough clothes to keep yourself warm. Heat may not be available in your house so get extra coats and blankets to maintain your body temperature sufficiently. Have your mittens, gloves, hats, socks and boots ready as well.

Have food ready.

Emergency provisions are a must during storm emergencies. Make sure you stock on no-cook food, canned food, some candy and other non-perishable items. And don’t forget can openers, scissors or utensils. If the storm gets too bad and the streets are flooded, you will have a difficulty going out to the grocery shops. Besides, stores might be closed.

Keep bottles of water handy. Clean water may be hard to come by during really bad conditions and the worst thing you can do is suffer from dehydration because you were not prepared. Keep a supply of at least one gallon for every person per day that will last for 3 to 4 days.

Fill the tub.

You’ll need more water for washing and flushing the toilets. When the power is out, your water pump won’t operate, so best fill your bath tub, water containers and pails with water. If you have small children in the house, take precautions by covering deep containers and keeping children away from the bathroom unless necessary.

Emergency kit

Have a medical or first kit ready and make sure it’s freshly-stocked. It should contain disinfectants, gauzes, cotton balls, Q-tips, medicated plasters and necessary medicines. It’s also a good idea to have another kit in your car.

If anyone in your family is under special medication, make sure you have enough supplies to last until after the storm is over and drug stores are open.

Lights off

Expect power outages during storm emergencies. You won’t have any electricity, so stock on candles, flashlights and emergency lights. Have extra fresh batteries and matches in case you run out.

If you can’t turn on the TV, have a battery-powered radio tuned in to a station that covers your area. Media will monitor the storm and will keep you updated.

You might need hot water during the period when power is not yet available, so keep a small tank of gas around just in case. Your outdoor gas grill will do nicely.

Get an alternate shelter.

If you think your house will suffer considerably, it’s a good idea to consider an alternate shelter. It could be an evacuation center or another house or building that is safer. Make sure you have enough gas in your tank in case you need to get out of the house and move someplace. Keep to a higher ground where you have better chances of being safe and dry.