Abdominals
Bands of muscles on the front of the torso between the diaphragm and the pelvis.
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Calorie
A measure of heat that expresses the energy value of food; the amount of heat necessary to raise the temperature of 1 gram (g) of water 1 degree Celsius (C).
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Carbohydrates
(Carbs) The chief source of energy for all bodily functions and muscular exertion. Carbs are also necessary to assist in the digestion and assimilation of other foods. They help regulate protein and fat metabolism; fats require carbs for their breakdown within the liver. Of the three main sources of energy (carbohydrates, fats and proteins), carbohydrates are most readily available for energy output or work.
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Connective Tissue
Dense, fibrous tissues that make up ligaments and tendons. Connective tissue acts as the framework through which the forces resulting from muscular contractions can be transmitted to bring on the desired movement.
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Dehydration
Excessive loss of body water that can have adverse affects on a variety of biological functions; this can lead to decreases in performance capabilities.
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Extensor
Muscles responsible for the extension of limbs or torso, increasing the angle or the distance between the bones involved.
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Flexor
Muscles responsible for the flexion of limbs or torso, decreasing the angle or distance between the bones involved.
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Free Weights
Weights unattached to a machine. Free-moving weights that are constrained by the lifter rather than by a machine.
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Glycogen
Carbohydrates that are stored within muscle. This provides the energy for muscles to work.
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Male Growth Hormones
A protein (secreted by the pituitary) primarily known for the stimulation of physical growth of the body.
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Metabolism
The rate at which calories are burned while the body performs all the functions necessary for life.
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Neutralizers
Muscles recruited during an activity to assist primary muscles in executing movement. They are needed to prevent over-extension of joints at the end of a range of motion.
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Osteoporosis
A disease in which there are reductions in bone mass and bone mineral density leading to high susceptibility to bone fractures.
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Proteins
One of the three primary energy sources. Protein is essential for the growth and development of all body tissues. It may be used as a source of heat and energy, providing 4 calories per gram of protein.
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Spot Reducing
The perceived elimination of fat from specific targeted areas of the body. For example, males tend to want to burn the fat on the sides of their waistlines (obliques) while females would like to burn the fat on their outer thighs.
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Stabilizers
Muscles recruited for the gaining and maintaining of one's equilibrium (in relation to gravity's pull) during activities including lifting weights.
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Steroids
The synthetic (man-made) derivative of male sex hormones.
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Strength Curve
The varying increases and decreases in a muscle's strength throughout the range of motion of a joint.
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Testosterone
Hormones which stimulate muscle growth and increased protein anabolism. More abundantly available in males than in females, this is the hormone responsible for the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics.
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Variable Resistance
Exercises with the use of machines designed to vary the resistance to match the strength increases and decreases (strength curve) inherent with each exercise's respective range of motion.
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Weight Training
Exercises that involve the lifting of weights, either with the use of machines or free weights.
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