The post How to Stave Off Dry Winter Skin appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
When winter settles into our Chicago, IL, apartments, once-soft skin can quickly become dry, itchy and irritated. At best, it's uncomfortable, and at worst, it's downright painful. Luckily, we've come up with some tips to help you stave off dry winter skin so you can enjoy handshakes and hellos without embarrassment.
1. Pick the Right Moisturizer
On the surface, this seems like an obvious answer, but many people opt for lotions that contain perfumes or alcohol — both of which can dry out sensitive skin. On the other hand, a lot of lotions aren't thick enough to do the job right. If you put a dollop of lotion on your palm and turn your hand over, the lotion should stay. If it runs off or drips to the floor, it's not thick enough to combat Chicago's cold winter air.
Look for moisturizers that are formulated with ingredients such as:
- Ceramides (oils)
- Dimethicone (a type of silicone)
- Shea butter
2. Wear Mittens and Socks to Bed
After you've slathered your body in your favorite lotion and performed all of your nightly pre-bedtime rituals, slide your feet into socks and your hands into mittens. These pieces will help keep your appendages warm, which, in turn, will enable the moisturizer to do its best job on your skin.
3. Get Cuticle Cream
Cracked cuticles are no good for anybody. They can become quite painful, and if they end up in a bad situation, they can actually become infected. Keep them soft and moist by applying cuticle cream or oil after you remove your mittens, and apply the substance a few times throughout the day.
4. Shorten Your Shower Time
Although ultra-hot showers can feel good in the morning when you're trying to wake up, the heat can dry out your skin. To avoid this pitfall, shower as quickly as possible and use lukewarm water.
5. Use a Humidifier
Indoor heating can suck the moisture right out of the air. This, in turn, can leave your skin thirsty. A humidifier helps keep moisture in your home and body.
Are you searching for a Chicago apartment that'll welcome you into its warm, cozy community all winter long? We're glad you found The Montrose! Swing by so we can show you around!
The post How to Stave Off Dry Winter Skin appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post Fitness Tips for Autumn appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
As the weather cools off and the leaves change color, this is a great time to head outdoors for your daily workout. While you’re less likely to be dealing with heat and humidity during fall workouts, there are still a few things to keep in mind. Use the following fall fitness tips to make your workouts a success.
Watch the Weather
Temperatures in fall can fluctuate significantly, so it’s important to keep an eye on daily forecasts. You might need to dress in layers if temperatures get cold enough, but you could also find yourself having to wear short sleeves outside again on unseasonably warm days. The weather can also turn stormy during fall, which could cause you to make changes to what time you head out or decide whether to stay in or not.
Do Seasonal Activities
Your fitness routine doesn’t have to be the same day after day. During the fall, take advantage of seasonal activities for your daily dose of physical activity. Go running or jogging through local parks to admire the changing leaves. You can also head to local beaches to go for a brisk walk without having to deal with crowds this time of year. Keep in mind that any fall activities that increase your heart rate are giving your body a good workout.
Adjust Your Workout Time
Evenings get darker earlier, especially once the clocks are set back one hour in early November. Take this into account when planning your daily outdoor workout this fall. You might want to start exercising outside earlier while it’s light out. If you do go biking, running or doing other outdoor activities after dark, make sure you’re wearing reflective clothing so cars can see you.
Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. The sun’s rays can damage your skin and eyes in fall. Before heading out for exercise, make sure you apply sunscreen on exposed skin to protect it from UV rays. You should also wear sunglasses to keep your eyes safe from these rays.
If you’re looking for a place to work out this fall, our community features a brand new fitness center. Contact us to learn more about our available amenities and apartments in Chicago, IL.
The post Fitness Tips for Autumn appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post 3 Simple Workouts to Do in Your Apartment appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
Instead of spending hundreds every year on gym memberships, workouts in your apartment are easy, convenient, and can be very effective. In this post, we’ll discuss three simple workouts anyone can do inside their apartment.
Squats
If you’re looking for a toned, well-balanced body, working out your legs is vital. If you’ve heard of leg workouts before, then you’ve probably heard of doing squats. And luckily, there are many different types of squats that work different areas of your legs. For one option, try pointing your toes forward, keeping your back as straight as possible, dipping your backside to the ground, and then lifting back up. Be sure to do a few sets of these at about 10–20 reps per set, depending on your ability level.
Push-Ups and Dips
For centuries, the classic push-up has been used to build muscle in our chests and arms. For an easy-to-follow push-up routine, start with your standard push-ups, and be sure to do sets of at least 10 push-ups per set. For your other sets, try to move your hands closer together or further apart to attack other muscles in your chest and arms. If you’re looking to work other parts of your arms between your sets, a good exercise involves doing dips. To accomplish this, place a chair in an open area and stand in front of it with your back facing the chair. Take a step forward, reach behind you, and place your hands on the chair. Extend your legs outward and dip down as far as possible, then push back to the starting position.
Sit-Ups and Planks
Another workout that targets other parts of your body involves doing sit-ups and planks. To get the best results without straining yourself, place your toes against a wall and drop your backside to the ground. Be sure to bend your knees, then lift your head and chest up as high as you can. If you struggle to lift up, or you feel too much strain on your back, only raise your head until you feel a burn in your abs. Planks are another great exercise to target your abs. To accomplish this, go into the push-up position, but place your elbows on the ground instead of your hands. Keep your back straight and hold that position for at least 30 seconds.
Completing these easy workouts starts with having the right apartment! Though working out at home is an option we invite you to check out our fully equipped fitness center! For Chicago apartments focused on your needs, contact The Montrose today to schedule a tour!
The post 3 Simple Workouts to Do in Your Apartment appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post 3 Ways to Get Flat Abs This Spring appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
If you plan on having that “summer bod,” now’s the time to start! With spring and warmer weather just around the corner, it’s as good a time as any to start getting physical!
Of course, one of the most common trouble areas for many people is the abs. If you’ve been feeling a little soft around the middle, here are some great flat abs tips for you this spring.
Focus on plank moves
The plank position is excellent for the core, and the core is what refining the abs is all about. If you’re not used to doing plank moves or getting into this position at all, start slow. Just do the plank (and keep that back straight) for as long as you can — 20 to 30 seconds is a great start if you can. Then, work your way up every day.
Once you get up to one or more minutes, you can start lifting one arm or leg (or an opposite arm and leg) for a few seconds, or you can even move into the side plank.
Don’t forget cardio!
Having flat abs isn’t just about working that core. It’s also important to get a good whole body workout. Most importantly, make sure you’re breaking a sweat at least 20 minutes a day, at least three times a week (although, longer is always better). Do this by running/jogging, swimming, biking, or playing a sport.
Take a look at your diet
Lastly, look at what you’re eating. Belly fat will cover any abs you cultivate, so try to reexamine your diet. Eat more fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and healthy fats. You should be consuming around half your weight in ounces of water every day too (this helps with digestion). Stay away from processed, packaged, and fried foods, and limit sugar as much as possible.
Whittling down those abs doesn’t mean you have to forego your favorite foods, but do aim to keep a balanced, nutritional diet!
Many Chicago, IL apartments like ours have fitness centers on-site where getting flat abs is easy! Looking for a new apartment in the Chicago area? Simply get in touch with our office to see which floor plans we still have available.
The post 3 Ways to Get Flat Abs This Spring appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post 5 Fitness Tips for the New Year appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
If you have committed to a healthier new you for the new year, these five fitness tips can help you adopt a solid plan and stick with it to meet your goals.
1. Embrace a Healthy Diet
Fitness is not merely about exercise because having a health-conscious diet also plays a significant role in determining overall well-being. Fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and veggies are excellent choices for those seeking to lose weight or build muscle through supplemental exercise. Take healthy snacks when on the go to curb midday cravings.
2. Solidify an Exercise Routine
While a fitness room is a wonderful option to have, some fairly efficient exercises can be performed just about anywhere. Jogging, running, light weight training, walking or even dancing can effectively burn calories and tone muscles. It’s been proven that both gentle and intense exercise can result in similar health benefits and weight loss.
3. Stay Committed to Fitness Routines and Goals
New Year's resolutions to get fit often fail because of a lack of commitment. Determine your goals, how many days or hours per week you can commit, and consider what dietary changes will best help you along. If time crunches distract you, consider using sticky notes or charts, or set alert reminders on your smartphone or other connected devices to help keep you on track.
4. Record and Track Progress
By tracking and recording fitness accomplishments, you can see whether or not you are meeting your target goals, which helps you realize when a new approach may be necessary. Not only can you redesign your target goals, but tracking your progress can be an excellent motivator not to slip up.
5. Find a Workout Buddy or Competitor
Some individuals are more inclined to meet fitness goals with a workout pal, while others are more motivated by the idea of competition. Decide which type of buddy will yield optimal results for your personality. There’s also the option of hiring a personal trainer to keep you on track.
Check Out The Montrose Apartments in Chicago
If you are looking for impressive and elegant Chicago apartments, contact us at The Montrose today to schedule a tour of our community and our brand new state-of-the-art fitness center.
The post 5 Fitness Tips for the New Year appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post 4 Essentials for Health & Fitness appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
The nutritional and exercise requirements for maintaining your goal body weight, strength, and cardiovascular and respiratory health are actually simple. But, today’s selection of endless options causes confusion that can lead to indecision. Here's some sound advice for our residents here in The Montrose apartments in Chicago: Go back to the basics. Whether your goal is to lose weight, build muscle, or run an endurance race, you just need to focus on the essentials of health and fitness.
Use Simple Exercise Routines
Join a gym or grab a pair of dumbbells from your local department store. Use a favorite exercise video or just do your own 30-minute or more daily routine of movements you learned in your high school gym class, to burn calories, strengthen muscles, and increase cardiovascular endurance. Alternate between several routines for continued results.
Commit to Healthier Eating Habits
Find an eating strategy that you actually enjoy. There are plenty of useful eating plans that include eating real foods. Ignore temporary diets and fad potions, and choose a long-term eating program that suits your lifestyle. Get rid of high-calorie, low-nutrient sauces, beverages, and processed foods. Keep a healthy inventory of food on hand.
Monitor Your Progress
You can monitor your weight or track changes in how your jeans fit. Jump on the scale every other week or so, if you wish. Or, keep a weight-tracking journal, or wear a Fitbit-type device to monitor your body movements. Just pick a monitoring method that suits you to help you keep moving toward your fitness goal.
Remember, Be Patient
Today's culture has us all demanding to have what we want now. We can get information, delivery foods, movies, music, all immediately on demand. However, for health and fitness, patience is required. If you commit to living a healthier lifestyle for just six months, you can change your life.
The Montrose
The many high-end features of The Montrose apartments include floor-to-ceiling windows, 9- and 10-foot ceilings, city and lake views, gourmet kitchens, 24-hour staffed building entry, resort-style swimming pool, and numerous other luxury features and amenities. For more information about our apartment community and available floor plans, contact our excellent staff at The Montrose apartments in Chicago, IL, by calling (866) 659-3593.
The post 4 Essentials for Health & Fitness appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post 5 Fun Outdoor Workout Ideas for Summer appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
Summer is the perfect time to rev up your fitness goals and try something new. The best way to stick with your fitness plan is to keep it interesting, and living at The Montrose provides you with a variety of ways to stay fit right on-site.
1. Circuit Training
If the summer heat is tempting you to skip your outdoor workout, you can work out in our air-conditioned fitness center. A circuit training program can help you burn calories, lose fat and tone up using our high-quality fitness equipment.
2. Walk or Run With Your Dog
Exercise is twice as much fun with your four-legged friends. Our Chicago apartments are pet friendly, and if you own a dog, you’ll always have a walking or running companion. Afterward, take your dog to our on-site dog park so you can socialize with other dogs and their owners.
3. Swimming
Swimming is a great way to stay fit without excessive impact on your knee, ankle, and hip joints. The Montrose features a resort-style swimming pool so you can burn calories in the water and stay cool all summer long.
4. Parks and Fitness Trails
Tired of walking or running on a treadmill or a boring city sidewalk? Consider venturing out on a park fitness trail instead. Exercising in nature can be very invigorating and help to breathe new life into your summer workouts.
5. Interval Training
High impact interval training (HIIT) can energize your workout and make your fitness efforts more efficient and effective. Just three 20 minute workouts per week can bring tremendous benefits.
Sample Interval Training Workout
- Stretch and warm up
- 30 seconds of 80 to 90 percent exertion
- 60 to 90 seconds of light exertion
- Repeat eight times total
- Cool down
The workout activity is your choice, as long as you can exert yourself at a minimum of 80 percent capacity. Consult with a health professional before beginning this or any workout routine.
Summer fitness is a breeze at our Chicago apartments. Consider trying these summer workout ideas, and if you don’t already live here, contact us today to learn more about available floor plans.
The post 5 Fun Outdoor Workout Ideas for Summer appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post Reasons to Sign Up for a Marathon appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
Living in our Chicago apartments doesn't mean giving up healthy outdoor exercise. Most major cities now offer a range of safe, traffic-free paths for biking, walking and running, and Chicago, in particular, has a wide variety of attractive and interesting options.
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon held every October is one of the most popular races in the world, attracting a host of elite international runners. The city also hosts many 5K, 10K, half-marathons and other full marathons each year.
The Benefits of Running a Marathon
Personal Satisfaction
For serious runners, there’s no doubt that the marathon represents the ultimate challenge and a personal achievement to be justly proud of. But beyond that, the intensive training and physical conditioning required to complete the 26-mile distance cannot help but have a positive impact on future performances over your preferred distance.
For the occasional or weekend runner, the challenge involved in a marathon is even more daunting. But the greater sense of achievement, improved fitness and well-being bring a correspondingly sweeter reward.
Health
Aside from the well-established physical benefits of improved cardiovascular health, long distance running also brings significant mental health benefits. The so-called “runners high” is not a myth! Extended physical activity increases the production of serotonin, the hormone associated with a sense of well-being, healthy appetite and good sleep.
Fun
Often seen as a solitary activity, long-distance running is actually a great way to meet new people. Joining a running club or signing up for a marathon with a group of friends will make the hours of training a social and fun experience. You can also add motivation and purpose to your marathon challenge by joining the many runners who use their event as an opportunity to raise funds for favorite charities.
There’s no better way of seeing a city, and especially a new city, than on foot. And covering your training miles on its paths and trails will give you a view of Chicago that trains and buses never can.
The Montrose Apartments in Chicago is located in the historic Uptown neighborhood, perfect for exploring the city and providing easy access to its numerous hiking, biking and running paths. To check out our available floor plans, call us at (866) 659-3593.
The post Reasons to Sign Up for a Marathon appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>The post Create Your Own Workout Routine appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>
The Montrose is excited to offer residents of our apartments in Chicago access to a brand new, state-of-the-art fitness center. Filled with all the latest workout equipment, our residents don't have to go to a nearby gym to exercise. Instead, they can just head down to our 1,800 sq. ft. fitness center that is located right inside our building.
Are you eager to start working out in our fitness center but unsure of what to do? If so, here are some great tips that will help you create your very own personalized workout routine that can be used in our new fitness center.
Know Your Limitations
When creating your own workout routine, it is important to know your limitations. If you haven't worked out in a while, there is a good chance you probably aren't going to be able to instantly run 10 miles on a treadmill and do 50 lifts with weights. You will need to start slowly and work your way up to more intense exercises.
While creating your own workout routine, think about your limitations. Be realistic about what you can do and your endurance levels. Creating a routine that is too hard can result in burnout or even cause an injury.
Remember to Plan for Rest Days
Make sure you reserve at least one day a week as a day of rest. This is a day where you don't do any intense workout and just let your body recover. Planning recovery days reduces your risk of injury as your body has time to heal.
It is important to remember that just because it is a planned rest day, it doesn't mean you sit around doing nothing. On your rest days, you will want to engage in light activity that will keep you moving. Some examples of light activity include long walks, gentle yoga or swimming in our resort-style swimming pool.
Come see our impressive 1,800 square foot fitness center for yourself by scheduling a tour of our community. Not only will you get to see the fitness center, but you can see our resort-style swimming pool, amenity level sundeck with grills and picnic space, and our stunning studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments in Chicago. Call us today to schedule a tour.
The post Create Your Own Workout Routine appeared first on The Montrose Apartments Blog.
]]>