wobble down http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for wobble down Copyright 2008 Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:12:21 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/wobble+down Pre- Ankle Stabilization Exercise For The Rocker, Balance, And Wobble Board http://www.artwoo.com/article/pre-ankle-stabilization-exercise-for-the-rocker-balance-and-wobble-board http://www.artwoo.com/article/pre-ankle-stabilization-exercise-for-the-rocker-balance-and-wobble-board#comments Thu, 16 Aug 2007 07:25:01 +0000 wobble boardswobble boardstabilization exercisesimple exercisebalance exercisesbalance boardsbalance board http://www.artwoo.com/article/pre-ankle-stabilization-exercise-for-the-rocker-balance-and-wobble-board s, s, or vestibular discs. We will go over some of these exercises, but before you perform any of them, you should do this Pre- Ankle for the rocker board, balance board, and wobble board. This serves two purposes: the more specific purpose is to help rehabilitate injured ankes. Rehabilitating an ankle can be sped up quite a bit just by doing these exercises. The second, more broad, objective is to improve your balance and prepare you for more difficult and challenging balance and coordination exercises.

It is important that you become familiar with the use of these balance devices before going onto more complicated exercises. Without familiarity, you may fall or stumble while doing the more complex exercises and risk different injury.

Description: Before working with any rocker, wobble, or balance boards, doing a series of simple on the ground will prepare you well for advancing to more difficult regimens. You should not be wearing shoes, particularly high heels, during any of the balance exercises. Not wearing shoes prevents you from stumbling and also allows your feet to "feel" where you are relative to gravity and the unsteady surface of the balance board. Find a corner in your home that is free of furnishings; the wall next to a door opening will work well unless, of course, if the door opens against where you are standing!. Stand facing the corner approximately 1 foot away from the corner and you'll be ready to start.

Step One: Keeping your eyes open, place one hand on each wall and then stand on one foot on the floor.

Step Two: Pull your hands slightly back from the wall, but keep them up so you can catch yourself if you start to fall.

Step Three: Make sure that you hold your head sraight, looking forward. Do not look down.

Step Four: Alternate one leg with the other, trying to stand as long as you can with out needing to brace yourself.

Step Five: When you are able to stand for 1 minute or more without losing your balance, and without leaning against the wall, on each foot you are ready to move on to step 6 and subsequent, more difficult, exercises.

Step Six: Repeat above except this time close your eyes.

Step Seven: Once you have mastered the basic floor balancing exercises your are ready to move on to the boards.

(If you would like to see pictures of this exercise, please go to http://www.home-rehab-supply.com and click on the "Exercise Tips" section.)

Warning: Therapeutic exercises should not significantly increase pain during the exercise. Increased pain or symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition and you should consult your health care professional for guidance. Dr. Alan Weidner graduated summa cum laude from Southern California University of Health Sciences. His website, http://www.home-rehab-supply.com, offers home exercise help, including balance and wobble boards. ]]> How To Get Virbrato When Singing http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-get-virbrato-when-singing http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-get-virbrato-when-singing#comments Tue, 25 Dec 2007 13:30:00 +0000 good vibratoaspiring singerspitch tonefast vibratobody resistancevocal foldsopen throat http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-get-virbrato-when-singing aspiring singers. But firstly, what is actually singing in vibrato?

A vibrato is a slight variation of caused by the free oscillation of the s from an open pharynx () along with the healthy closure of the vocal cords with the use of good singing muscle support system.

However, there are many singers singing with wrong vibratos resulting in awful pitching and tones. This are usually the results of the oscillations being too slow, which is called a wobble and when it is too fast, called a tremolo.

We often hear singers who have a wide and slow vibrato which is actually a wobble. This phenomenon is usually caused by a lack of correct resistance of the breath pressure or a lack of focus in the singing tone. A wobble can also be caused by a lack of proper adduction of the vocal folds.

On the other hand, some singers developed an overly that sound just as awful as the wobble. This overly fast vibrato is called a tremolo and neither the wobble nor the tremolo is the desired vocal tone for good singing.

A tremolo can be caused by a pressure built up at the root of the tongue. This pressure can have its origin at inhalation or onset of sound production. It can also be the result of a lack of vocal cord approximation.

Many singers do not know that the vocal folds must close after inhalation. This lack of proper adduction of the cords can result in a faster vibrato speed and therefore, the creation of a tremolo. The improper use of the singing muscle support system is another cause for producing a tremolo voice.

A is when the singing voice is vibrating at an even rate. An uneven vibrato may be the result of sudden changes in the sub-glottis breath pressure. These sudden changes in the air pressure is result of even "" from the singing support system. The vocal cords then begin to separate and vibrate unhealthily.

Most singers started off having a straight singing tone (no vibrato) before developing the vibrato through good vocal exercises. Some straight tone singers have even sung in choirs where their choir masters insisted that they sing in a straight tone.

Singing this way can be damaging to the singing voice as it put too much stress on the vocal cords and nodules can develop from singing in a straight tone over a period of time.

Good choral vocal blend can be developed through vowel and acoustical alignment but not squeezing the singing voice into straight tone. Most straight tone singers have problems with vocal cord closure because too much pressure has been held at the vocal folds over a period of time.

A good vibrato gets woven into the voice when the singer achieves proper balance in the support muscles and when the feeling of the "oo" vowel is sustained in the pharynx. The feeling of the "oo" vowel allows a healthy adduction of the vocal cords without too much pressure at the glottis.

A diaphragmatic vibrato is the when the diaphragm pulsates during a sustained tone to create a false vibrato. Many theatre singers develop this bad vocal habit so as to have some sort of vibrato when no vibrato is actually present. A diaphragmatic vibrato is difficult to reverse because the abdominal muscles memorize the pulsating sensation and develop a muscle memory. However, it can be corrected through time with proper vocal exercises.

A healthy vibrato can be developed in a rather short period of time with the right vocal exercises. How long does it take for a singer to develop a good and healthy vibrato voice is usually dependent on the singer's mind/body coordination.

So if you want to develop a good vibrato singing voice, then go look for a good singing teacher or get the right vocal exercises and start practicing. Chris Chew runs a music website at http://www.playmusicsing.com ]]> Treadmill With TV - What To Know Before You Buy http://www.artwoo.com/article/treadmill-with-tv-what-to-know-before-you-buy http://www.artwoo.com/article/treadmill-with-tv-what-to-know-before-you-buy#comments Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:34:58 +0000 home treadmilltreadmillshealth clubspeaker systemdownsideworkoutscreens http://www.artwoo.com/article/treadmill-with-tv-what-to-know-before-you-buy health club lately, you've probably seen the latest rage in - built-in TVs.

The demand for treadmills with TVs is skyrocketing and the good news is that you don't have to pay a commercial treadmill price just to get a built in TV.

However, there are some things you should be aware of before you go looking for a treadmill with built in TV.

There are 2 main types of TV treadmills. The first has a television built directly into the console. The second has a TV attached separately to the console that sits above it (more in line with your eyes).

The first version of treadmills usually have smaller (around 7-12 inches) and are the more affordable options (these treadmills can range from $1000 - $1500).

The second version comes with larger screens (around 15 inches) and are similar to the design you see in health club treadmills. They are usually more expensive ($2500+) and harder to find in a - but they're still out there and will probably become more affordable in time.

There are advantages and disadvantages to each.

Built into the console TV treadmills are much more affordable. You can choose to watch your program and track your statistics (Time, MPH, Incline, etc.) at the same time, or you can just choose to watch TV. However the is that on some machines - if the TV breaks it can sometimes render the treadmill useless - not always, but sometimes. Another downside is that if you're doing heavy running - especially on the cheaper units - the screens may shake or wobble a bit.

Separate TV treadmills are more expensive however the screens are larger and usually the TV can be removed easily for repair without disrupting the treadmills operation. Also, because of the subframe design, even if you're doing heavy running, the screen will not shake or wobble.

Almost all TV treadmills come with some type of built in and many of them also allow you to listen to your iPod of mp3 player as well. They come cable and DVD ready. Regardless of which type of treadmill with TV you choose, one thing you do want to consider is the warranty coverage on the TV (i.e. the electronics warranty). Obviously the longer the better. If you're concerned about it, you can also usually buy extra warranty coverage on checkout.

Also, a TV is a great feature to have - but it's not essential. Make sure your treadmill has the essentials of a high quality machine first like a strong motor power, excellent cushioning, high stability, lengthy warranty, etc. Then the other features are icing on the cake. Another alternative to a TV treadmill is to just buy a well-built treadmill and then set it up in front of your TV - it may not look as cool but it's what people have been doing for years.

So those are a few things to know before you buy a treadmill with TV. Hopefully it will save you some time and help you to find your best treadmill option. Vienna Miller writes for http://www.Treadmill-Comparison.com - offering easy treadmill comparison charts and reviews. For an easy way to compare TV treadmills visit http://www.Treadmill-Comparison.com/tvtreadmills.php ]]> Repair Your Aging Home For Better Homeowner's Insurance Rates http://www.artwoo.com/article/repair-your-aging-home-for-better-homeowners-insurance-rates http://www.artwoo.com/article/repair-your-aging-home-for-better-homeowners-insurance-rates#comments Tue, 10 Oct 2006 04:27:05 +0000 homeowners insuranceinsurance policyinsurance agentinsurance ratesliving dangerouslybust downface problems http://www.artwoo.com/article/repair-your-aging-home-for-better-homeowners-insurance-rates bust down the front door if she tried hard enough. Face it: Your house is aging. Of course, this is not a problem if you like the excitement of , but if you're in the market for homeowner's insurance, or looking to save some money on your current homeowner's , you need to start making some repairs to your home.

When you set out to purchase a homeowner's insurance policy, the insurance company is going to want to know what kind of condition your home is in. Not all aging homes are going to ; actually, as long as your aging home has been well-maintained, you shouldn't have any problems when you try to purchase a homeowner's insurance policy. However, if your home is aging so ungracefully that not a single room in the house has seen a coat of paint in the last 30 years, it is probably safe to say that no other maintenance has been done, either, and you might have some trouble getting a homeowner's insurance policy -- much less one you can afford.

Making repairs to your home that will make your home safer for you, your family, your visitors, and your valuables, as well as make your home less likely to suffer water and fire damage will not only get you a great homeowner's insurance policy, but it can also help you save money on your existing homeowner's insurance policy. Give your current homeowner's a call and find out what you can do to your aging home that will lower your homeowner's . http://www.myquoteguide.com/Student-Health.shtml http://www.ezquoteguide.com/home/ Kentucky Car Insurance ]]> Keep Cool With A Ceiling Fan http://www.artwoo.com/article/keep-cool-with-a-ceiling-fan http://www.artwoo.com/article/keep-cool-with-a-ceiling-fan#comments Fri, 07 Sep 2007 02:25:01 +0000 remote control dimmer switchesoutdoor ceiling fanceiling fanscold weatherwarm weatheradequate lightingblow down http://www.artwoo.com/article/keep-cool-with-a-ceiling-fan
Despite the fact that have been in existence for over 100 years, they are still very popular today and have improved over time. They now have better motors and materials, a better overall finish and controls, and the variety is overwhelming. In addition to this, there is always a type to suit even a restricted budget.

When choosing a ceiling fan, you need to determine the size needed for the room. You then need to see how it is going to be placed. If the fan is also going to be the main light source, then you would also have to purchase a light kit that will provide . Other options include remote control, dimmer switches and reversible blades.

It would be a good idea to consider the construction of the fan and blades. If the motor casing is made from thin metal, there will be a rattling or humming sound while in operation. If the blades are made of wood, you could experience warping. Therefore, while the look and benefits of the fan are important, the construction of it is also an important aspect to look into.

While there aren't a lot of ceiling fans that will work outdoors, there are some that do. An is especially designed and manufactured to withstand the effects of heat, cold, dust, dryness and humidity. This is why no indoor fan should be installed outdoors as it is not designed appropriately for outdoor use.

In case you were under the impression that ceiling fans only help to keep us cool, you are in for a surprise. The fact is that these fans are just as useful for helping to keep the room warm in . You just need to ensure that when you buy a fan, it can be set to in and up in cold weather.

Once your fan is installed and you are making the most of, you also need to remember that at times it needs to be cleaned. Dirty blades can make ceiling fans shake and wobble, and to keep them running smoothly you need to clean them often, at least every two months. However, for weekly maintenance you could dust the blades with a feather duster, making sure that the fan is switched off while doing so. You can find further information on ceiling fans and home decorating ideas at http://www.top-ceiling-fans.info or http://www.ultimate-ceiling-fans.info/sitemap.html ]]> Treadmill Buying: 5 Most Important Criteria For Treadmill Comparison http://www.artwoo.com/article/treadmill-buying-5-most-important-criteria-for-treadmill-comparison http://www.artwoo.com/article/treadmill-buying-5-most-important-criteria-for-treadmill-comparison#comments Sun, 13 Jan 2008 11:20:01 +0000 comparing treadmillsnoise factoreasy jobstyle and performancerare combinationjigglewobble http://www.artwoo.com/article/treadmill-buying-5-most-important-criteria-for-treadmill-comparison Comparing treadmills is not an as there is a great number to choose from. Some look very smart, others work very well, while there are a few that are a of . And then there is the affordability question. Not everyone can afford the treadmill s/he fancies.

And all this buying treadmill-talk boils down to "having the best one, one could have within one's financial bracket." The difficulty throughout is to decide the criteria on which to judge the treadmills. That could be a real task. I have identified 5 most important criteria to home in a good treadmill. Here is the list:

1. Cushioning By cushioning we mean the capacity of the treadmill to absorb the pounding that you would give it during your workout. The belt and the deck of the treadmill must be tough and sturdy. The stronger the two, the better is the treadmill.

2. Stability Stability is another important factor to be considered. One must consider how smooth the ride is. It should not be a or , but must stand firm.

3. Accuracy A treadmill must also be judged with respect to the accuracy of the actual distance covered. The more accurate the reading, the better is the machine.

4. Next comes the noise factor. A treadmill should be the least noisy one. It should work soundlessly under your feet.

5. Warranty The above list cannot be completed without adding the warranty factor. You need to take note of the warranty, machine is coming with. One should also consider the after-sales services in order to ensure that if something goes wrong with the machine, it is taken care of promptly and conveniently at home itself. Choose the machine manufactured by a company that has a help line to contact in case of trouble with the treadmill. Also, find out if the machine comes with a warranty covering the parts of the machine, especially the motor, which happens to be the most expensive part.

Once you have made comparisons on the basis of the criteria mentioned above, you would surely choose the best treadmill in the market. That too, within your budget! To get more information visit http://www.treadmill-online.com/home/magazine/edition/Treadmill-Guide.htm, http://www.treadmill-online.com/home/magazine/edition/Treadmill-Reviews.htm and http://www.treadmill-online.com/home/magazine/edition/Buying-Treadmill.htm ]]> Shimano Stradic: The Best Series Among Shimano Reels http://www.artwoo.com/article/shimano-stradic-the-best-series-among-shimano-reels http://www.artwoo.com/article/shimano-stradic-the-best-series-among-shimano-reels#comments Sun, 05 Oct 2008 18:43:42 +0000 high quality materialsshimano stradicaluminum framesball bearingskinds of fishshimano reelscatching bass http://www.artwoo.com/article/shimano-stradic-the-best-series-among-shimano-reels Shimano reels.

Take note that the usage of spinning reels is much easier and they are known not to give you headaches when it comes to backlash. Now, when it comes to Shimano reels, among which are the series, then you are guaranteed that they are really the best. This is because much effort and time has been poured into these reels, so they can be used to catch all . So, whether you are in the game for , trout or walleye, you can always find the best reel among Shimano reels, especially if you will go for the Stradic models.

The Offerings of a Shimano Stradic

So, if you want to get only the best spinning reel among the Shimano reels, then you should go for what has already been lauded with awards and this is the Shimano Stradic. If you are looking for excellent design and that could deliver smooth and effective operations, then you can find this in a Stradic as well.

Shimano Stradic: The Best in Quality and Performance

As with other Shimano reels, the Shimano Stradic are made with the Shimano that are the best in quality and will assure you almost endless hours of pleasurable usage. Usually made with , Shimano Stradic spinning reels are also quite known for being tough and solid even if they seem to be light in weight. Because of this, you are always guaranteed that they will stand up to the challenge of even the toughest battle between fish and man.

Shimano Stradic: Of Stability and Balance

When it comes to stability and balance, you can find these among the Shimano Stradic spinning reels as well. Made usually with graphite rotors, you are assured that you won't be getting a Shimano Stradic that has a rotor with poor balance. This is very important because a wobble that could be noticed on your rotor when you are already spinning the line could really affect your pleasure in fishing. As an effect, your accuracy and technique will be thrown off as well.

There are still more to the Shimano Stradic that you can learn about and the more you will know, the better you will be convinced that this is the perfect fishing reel for you. There are now many sites on the Internet that could offer you more information on what the Shimano Stradic can offer you and once you are convinced, you can even buy your first Stradic from these sites as well.

Sea Isle Tackle provides a comprehensive listing of Shimano products and equipment for your evaluation.Visit Sea Isle Tackle online at http://www.seaisletackle.com. Owned by Robert Fuering, we offer the Stradic. In addition to the Shimano Stradic, we offer a full line of Shimano Spinning Reels.]]> The Geostationary Banana Over Texas Project http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-geostationary-banana-over-texas-project http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-geostationary-banana-over-texas-project#comments Thu, 01 Mar 2007 20:27:04 +0000 bananacanada council for the artshelium blimplaunchtechnicallygyroscopessaez http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-geostationary-banana-over-texas-project Banana Over Texas project is an 'art intervention' by César , Montreal artist.

This César Saez is a funny guy. Many odd art installations born in his brain, for example colouring the water in the Louvre's fountains or releasing a fleet of inflated white crosses into the Montreal skies. This time he would like to a 300 meter in the shape of a banana, 30-50km over over Texas. The expected launching date is August 2008 from around Baja or Sonora , north-west of Mexico.

Ground observers will be able to see the airship; Saez estimates it will appear 10 percent to 20 percent the size of the moon.

The gigantic banana will be constructed of bamboo and paper and filled with helium. Actually, it won't be a geostationary banana (though undeniably sounds good), because the blimp will neither circle the equator nor reach the 'Clarke Belt' -- approximately 35,786 km above sea level.

, the banana is not the latest invention. It will (hopefully) steer itself with the help of propellers and wind-activated , each rotating on a different axis. As the gyroscopes wobble, they'll whirl the banana in a boomeranglike trajectory.

After about a month, radiation from the sun will peel our banana, helium leaks out and the blimp starts to descend. As the airship falls down, friction intensely damages it before landing.

Among Texans opinions are divided. Some people claim that giant floating bananas are art. Others say that Canadians should put their banana in their own country. A number of persons are suspicious: that can be a perfect opportunity to nuke Texas.

As for the numbers, it will cost about $1 million, and so far he's raised one-eighth of that, including a $15,000 grant from the . So some said the money should have been spent on something else.

A banana is a symbol. It can symbolize anything, or it can symbolize that it doesn't symbolize anything. It is simple, useless and absurd. It is banal. A banana appearing in the Texas sky might seem like a message -- says Saez. But what does this exactly means? Some humour to the Texas sky? A joke to stupidity? A meaningless vision? Does this refer to something, for example American politics or advertisement industries? Why is it exactly in Texas? You can guess.

Imagine a romantic evening under the stars and... a giant bananana?! I am sure that Douglas Adams would burst into laughter seeing this, and aliens will roar with laughter, too. We hope that nobody will shoot down the banana. Fruzsina Csery wrote this article for http://www.jerseyestate.com ]]> The Secret Of Getting Your Ex Back -- What To Do When They're Sitting On The Fence http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-secret-of-getting-your-ex-back-what-to-do-when-theyre-sitting-on-the-fence http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-secret-of-getting-your-ex-back-what-to-do-when-theyre-sitting-on-the-fence#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2008 05:36:20 +0000 fence sittersitting on the fenceromantic relationshipsenough spacepossible solutionsdissatisfactionwhole life http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-secret-of-getting-your-ex-back-what-to-do-when-theyre-sitting-on-the-fence
Probably right now they haven't made a firm decision yet!

And still "sit on the fence" -- and that's very good thing for us, just learn to use it... And you're back in the happy and again! In fact, this stage is the most common -- and it can lead to reconciliation in days (if not hours!).

So let's get to the solution and strategy...

So what is " stage" in a nutshell?

It's the way people make their decisions... And the way people DELAY them... Because they're not sure

There are 3 main stages:

1. Your ex is off the fence, feeling good and not willing to get on the fence.

2. On the fence, but firmly fixed. Can observe all the opportunities and options he or she has.

3. "" stage is the most usual after making a big decision that affects their .

This is a normal process that takes place when people make all the decisions in their life... Including small decisions, medium decisions and big decisions... But when dealing with small decisions, we do not usually recognize the fence because it's too low, and doesn't arouse our fears anxiety.

But... Let's thing about big decisions for a moment... A big purchase, for example...

A house maybe?

For a long time you were absolutely satisfied with your house and didn't even think about changing it... Ever (Off the fence)

But then...old house became too small for you, not for the young and growing (meaning children) family and... Pretty soon you were "sitting on the fence", but not really entertaining the details. (On the fence, but firmly fixed and pretty stable)

Finally, because of growing of your family members or a sudden opportunity you started to explore your , and fear came into play.

You're starting to wobble... You don't know what to decide!
When someone is at this wobbling stage, they usually are extremely emotional and may get angry and irritated at a mere drop of a feather!

So it's much easier to get them on your side too... If you know how to do it correct. So if you're determined and ready to take action, you will have a very good chance of pushing them back into your arms... Softly and gently -- without them even noticing...

But... Let's apply some empathy here. What you think you would do, how you would react to "salesy" behavior if you were buying a new car? Probably along the lines of this phrase: "Stay away! Get out! Let me make my own decision!" Right?

So the point is -- the more you push on them while they're on the fence, the more distant and angry they become... So it's not the smart way of doing things. So you need to avoid it.

Hope this helps you to achieve your goal of getting your ex back while avoiding the most fatal mistake -- chasing them and being clingy.In the Magic Of Making Up System T Dub Jackson shows you how to get your ex from "off the fence" to "on the fence" and then -- to the "wobbling" stage. Then it is just a matter of the right counterintuitive moves to get them to come down on the fence on YOUR SIDE. To get your ex back... Almost immediately! So act quickly! Rooting for you, Max Corvis.]]> Take Advantage Of Your Center Of Gravity When Bowling http://www.artwoo.com/article/take-advantage-of-your-center-of-gravity-when-bowling http://www.artwoo.com/article/take-advantage-of-your-center-of-gravity-when-bowling#comments Mon, 10 Sep 2007 19:30:00 +0000 center of gravitygravity workbowling ballfinger holespinsball moveswobble down http://www.artwoo.com/article/take-advantage-of-your-center-of-gravity-when-bowling
Here you are, at last! The roar of balls screaming down polished wooden lanes, the thunder of toppling, the delicious fragrance of the cafe and cheers heralding the triumph of a teammate... intense!



You've bowled enough to know that it's a serious sport. Closing your eyes, holding your breath and hoping for the best as you hurl a house ball towards the waiting pins is not your best choice...and you know it.



But just how does that "pro" in the next lane over make his do those awesome tricks?



His ball screams from one side of the lane to the other, only to come out of nowhere, right into that sweet spot and "STRIKE!" again and again.



The answer is simple. By taking advantage of the ball's , he gains incredible control over how his down the lane.

How does the center of ?

Out of all the factors that can affect how a bowling ball moves down the lane, the center of gravity is the one that can make the biggest difference to the beginning bowler. Look at the balls in the pro shop. You will notice a small, off-color dot. This mark denotes the center of gravity on that ball. Just beneath this spot are a couple of ounces of extra weight, which allow the ball to roll straight when the have been drilled. The ball would the lane without this extra weight.

Clever bowlers realized that by drilling the holes slightly off of the center of gravity, the ball would be heavier on one side, shifting the center of gravity to that side. The ball would react differently when thrown, hooking to one side or the other, ensuring better control of the ball and hitting more pins, depending on the placement of the grip holes. Amazing!

How can you take advantage of the center of gravity when bowling?

Your local pro shop can help. When you go to purchase your bowling ball, simply have your pro watch you bowl. He has the experience to know just how much "off center" to drill your ball depending on where you stand, how strong you are, the weight and makeup of the ball you choose, how you throw and whether you are right or left handed. He will know just what you need. And the best part... Most shops will drill for free when you purchase your ball!

Taking advantage of your center of gravity is the first step on the path to become a serious bowler. The difference in having a ball with a center of gravity set just for you makes the single biggest difference to a beginning bowler and will help unleash your potential...taking you that next step in your bowling performance. With bigger scores to prove it! ImproveBowling offers a bowling guide ebook that is great for bowlers interested in improving their bowling game, especially for beginner and recreational bowlers. Visit http://www.improvebowling.com/hook_ball_technique.html for more information on hook ball and bowling techniques. ]]> Tips For Shopping For Tyres Online http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-shopping-for-tyres-online http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-shopping-for-tyres-online#comments Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:29:26 +0000 tyre rotationfront end alignmentsperformance tyrestyre companiestruck tyresfront end alignmentmany different ways http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-shopping-for-tyres-online
Since online shopping is so much easier than going from store to store, I decided to take some time and check out the different I could find on the internet. Obviously, I wanted to find tyres that would last for years. Therefore, I knew that price could not be the only consideration in my search.

As I traveled around the internet, I discovered that there are many differences in the companies that provide tyres. Some online sites that advertise tyres mainly made claims about offering the lowest price in tyres. Others concentrated on services that they offer along with the tyre purchase.

Some of these services included such things as every few months which is supposed to make the tyres last longer and give a better ride for the passengers. Other services included free mounting, balancing, and even free lug nuts.

Depending on the brand of the tyres, some are guaranteed to last as long as 50,000 miles or more, and/or several years. Many of the different types of tyres will then be replaced free of charge. In most cases, this replacement includes the fees for the mounting and balancing. One in particular, guarantees free replacement even if you run over a nail or blow a tyre because of a rut in the road.

When traveling around the internet looking for tyres, you will find that there are that tyres are describes. There are , passenger tyres, and SUV tyres.

Some places offer discounts on s done when you get a whole new set of tyres at their place of business. Obviously, a front end alignment is essential to make sure your tyres wear evenly and you get the most out of your new tyres. Most businesses agree that it is important to replace at least two tyres at a time so the front tyres and the back tyres are the same and have the same amount of wear.

Some sites stress how long the company has been in business in your local area; others just make claims that they are the cheapest company in the area when it comes to the price of tyres. Several that I checked out stressed that they are family-owned and family-run businesses which was more impressive to me than advertising the lowest tyre price.

There are sites online that brag about how many different locations they have around the country where they sell tyres. One advantage to that especially for people who travel a lot is the convenience of being able to replace a damaged tyre no matter where they are.

Depending on what type of vehicle you drive, how many miles you travel a year, and how much you travel outside of your community, there are many choices of places to purchase your tyres. If you prefer a particular brand of tyre, there are many places online where you can find the tyres that will suit your needs.Shopping for tyres? Visit http://www.blackcircles.com]]> Folding Treadmill - What To Know Before You Buy http://www.artwoo.com/article/folding-treadmill-what-to-know-before-you-buy http://www.artwoo.com/article/folding-treadmill-what-to-know-before-you-buy#comments Sat, 17 Nov 2007 07:40:02 +0000 treadmilltreadmillsstablehome workoutexercise roomsknow before you gofloor space http://www.artwoo.com/article/folding-treadmill-what-to-know-before-you-buy treadmill? Buying any treadmill these days can be complicated - there are so many new brands and models competing for your attention it can get confusing. Here's what you need to out to shop for a folding treadmill:

A fold-up treadmill provides both the luxury of a and saves you valuable . Foldup are ideal for condos, apartments or smaller . They're also easier to clean around and under!

There are 2 main types of foldup treadmills:

1) Power-folding Or Shock Assisted (where you get some help folding the treadmill). This helps to save the strain on your back. Power fold-up treadmills are few and far between but basically you press a button and the treadmill folds and unfolds itself.

Shock assisted treadmills are a little easier to find and you do have to put out a little effort, but not a lot, to get the treadmill to fold and unfold.

2) Manual folding - This is where you lift the treadmill itself to fold it up (and hold it to let it down and unfold it). If the treadmill is fairly light, this isn't so bad, but if it's a heavier unit, it can be a pain, especially for an older or health-compromised person. Most treadmills - especially those under $1200 - are manual folding.

Regardless of what type of folding mechanism is used, once the treadmill is folded, most treadmills have a locking mechanism where you can lock it into place. Some treadmills even have wheels on the bottom at the base of the treadmill so that once it's locked, you can easily move it around into a closet or another room.

While most economy treadmills fold up, there are a lot of higher end treadmills that don't. Why? What's the difference between a folding and non-folding treadmill?

Folding units, by the nature of their design, are generally not as as non-folding machines. (That doesn't mean they are not stable, it just means they are not AS stable). This is an important consideration when buying. According to Runner's World, stability is the most important quality of a good treadmill. For example, you don't want the treadmill to shake or wobble when you pick up your pace.

While there are a number of factors that contribute to stability (like user weight capacity, unit weight, quality of construction, etc.) foldability is one of them. This is why, if you look at stability ratings for various treadmills, non-folding machines almost always come out on top. This is also why most commercial or health club treadmills do not fold.

So runners or heavier users may want to consider a non-folding treadmill before buying. There are exceptions to this rule of course, but in general this is the case.

Overall, fold-up treadmills offer some great space saving and portability benefits. However keep in mind the various types of folding mechanisms available (especially if you're buying the treadmill for an elderly person who may not be able to lift a manual folding treadmill) as well as the stability benefits of non-folding machines. Vienna Miller writes for http://www.TreadmillReview.net - a consumer oriented site focusing on home treadmills. Find treadmill brand reviews, product reviews, and tips to save thousands on your next treadmill For the latest Best Buys visit http://www.TreadmillReview.net/Best-Treadmill.html ]]> Are You Ready To Tackle A Ceiling Fan Installation? http://www.artwoo.com/article/are-you-ready-to-tackle-a-ceiling-fan-installation http://www.artwoo.com/article/are-you-ready-to-tackle-a-ceiling-fan-installation#comments Tue, 20 Feb 2007 10:27:08 +0000 blade lengthlightingceiling fanperfect pitchinch clearancesleepless nightssix inches http://www.artwoo.com/article/are-you-ready-to-tackle-a-ceiling-fan-installation ceiling fan after ceiling fan? If you've got fan installation down pat you may be surprised to know that there are a ton of tricks to the trade that make the process even more simple than you've previously thought. The following is not an exact step-by-step guide; it should give you a couple of hints to make the process easier for you!

When you buy your electric fan, remember that they're not all created equally. In addition to price and style, there are other factors to consider when you buy. Here's a brief list of those things.



The motor is a biggie. The cheaper fans will usually have a thin outer covering, which means that there's more likelihood of a rattle when it's running. Other noises that may factor into this are buzzing and humming. If the fan is installed in your bedroom this might be something that ends up driving you crazy with .

You want to ensure that the blades are at the optimum pitch for operation. This is to ensure that the air is moved effectively.

The is 14 degrees. You'll want to be sure that the blade is also balanced so that you don't end up with a wobble in the fan.

Many fans come with built in. You'll want to just be sure that the lighting is enough to fill the size of the room. Nothing can be more annoying than needing to add additional lighting after you've already installed your fan.

This then leads into the size of the room. Both fans and rooms vary in size obviously; therefore you want to find that perfect combination to ensure efficiency. It's good to know that fans usually come in 7 different sizes, which range from thirty-two inches to fifty- in . You'll want to know the measurements of your room when you go out to buy your fan.

Next comes the topic of mounting. To get the best results, your fan's blades should be a minimum of 7 feet above the floor, and have a 12- below your ceiling. If you have a lower ceiling, there are special low-ceiling mount fans available. For higher ceiling often a rod is used to lower the ceiling fan closer to the ground.

If you want the maximum benefit for both summer and winter seasons, buy a reversible fan which will keep you cool in the summer but will also push warm air down during the winter months so that you can stay comfortable throughout the entire year. You'll definitely thank yourself for that savvy purchase.



If you're installing your fan on your own, you may need to purchase tools if they're not already on hand. At the minimum you're going to need the fan kit itself, wire strippers, a screwdriver, pliers, circuit testers, and a ladder. Remember, safety is always first, and you'll want to shut off all electric power to the home before starting as to avoid electric shock. If you don't know how to safely work with electricity DO NOT assume that you'll fine doing this on your own. Focusing on latest news in drywall equipment, Ray Walberg is publishing most often for http://www.insidewoodworking.com . Recording his experience in publications such as http://www.insidewoodworking.com/drywall/index.html ,the reviewer proofed his skill on information relating to drywall tools. ]]> Best Way To Load A Moving Truck http://www.artwoo.com/article/best-way-to-load-a-moving-truck http://www.artwoo.com/article/best-way-to-load-a-moving-truck#comments Sat, 08 Jul 2006 16:27:03 +0000 moving trucksmoving truckloading equipmenttruck loadingrampcurvesfurniture http://www.artwoo.com/article/best-way-to-load-a-moving-truck moving truck. Loading these is not as easy as tossing your belongings into the back. In fact, there are ways to properly and efficiently load a moving truck. You have to follow certain safety guidelines which are very important when moving out since some loads may weight tons and if they are not properly secured, it may shift dangerously while the truck is moving. Plus there are some laws concerning moving trucks that need to be followed in order to avoid being fined.

To start with, you should become familiar with the weight and capacity of your moving truck and take note of the weight of the items that you will be transporting. Each moving truck has weight restrictions; you should stay within your truck's weight restrictions and never push it above the limit. And if something is wrong with truck, have it fixed properly and immediately to ensure safety not only of the things that are going to be transported but also for your own safety.

Loading and un by driving it on and off a cab often times create apprehension; it is usually preferable to use a long, wide when loading equipment and on moving trucks. This also makes it easier for loaders in loading large furniture. The angle of the ramp is critical when loading, try positioning the ramp so that it is not too steep and in such a way to minimize the amount of pressure on the loaders.

It is also advised to put some supporters under the cab's edge or under the ramps to prevent up and down movement of the trailer especially when loading equipment or furniture. Incorrect positioning of the loads has a negative effect on how the truck drives and handles, especially on and turns. It is best to place the load in between the cab and the rear axle, placing the load behind the rear axle can produce poor handling of the moving truck. This also distributes some of the produced weight to the rear of the moving truck through out the journey, otherwise the cab will seem to have a mind of its own, and the cab will probably wobble or swerve.

Another important thing to remember before loading a moving truck is to have the tires checked. Tires are considered to be one of the most ignored areas of vehicle safety and should definitely be included during all of the safety inspections prior to loading. The tires are rated for a specific weight and yet most people are not aware of this. The best way for you to know about the tire's weight rating is to look at the sidewall of the tire; and if you could not read it, then it is most probably time for you to change your vehicle's tires. Heavy-duty tires which are sold by tire distributors and dealers are mostly available with many different weight carrying capabilities, you may also ask for assistance in determining the tire's loading capacity.

Make sure to secure your loads firmly, pack the truck properly, and you will be sure to drive smoothly and safely even on rough roads. Jeff Linaker has an interest in Travel and Holidays related topics. To access more information on http://www.tipsadvice.com/category/automobile/ or on http://www.tipsadvice.com/2006/06/22/moving_truck/, please click on the links. ]]> Choosing a Ring Prong Setting http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-a-ring-prong-setting http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-a-ring-prong-setting#comments Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:02:02 +0000 decorative shapesgold platinumprongsopen loopsilver ringsovalsgirdle http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-a-ring-prong-setting silver rings offer variety different settings. Before you go out and buy an engagement ring, wedding ring or other ring, take a look at this brief guide to the various ring prong settings that are currently available.

Engagement Ring Settings

The prong setting, also called a claw setting, is the most commonly used setting.

The prong setting is especially popular for solitaire engagement rings. The diamond or other gem is inserted into three or more metal forming a basket-like base. Then the prong ends are bent over so they rest against the crown, just past the stone's , holding it snugly in place.

Visible prong ends are often rounded, but they can be shaped into , points, V-shapes, left flat or even formed into . The prong setting can be tall, perching the diamond above the ring band. Likewise, it can also be short, with the stone resting closer to finger.

Prong Setting Benefits and Disadvantages

Prongs are tiny, so more of stone is visible. Furthermore, prong settings are easy and quick to make and they are usually less expensive than more intricate settings. Finally, stones set in prongs are usually easier to clean.

There are some drawbacks to a prong setting that you should be aware of. The girdle area of the gemstone is not covered and prongs offer less protection for stone than other, more enclosed settings. On top of this, prongs can snag clothing and other items they come in contact with.

Evaluating Prong Settings

If you are going to buy a ring with a prong setting then you should carefully consider some the following points:

1. Make sure that the gemstone is held snugly, and does not wobble.

2. The prongs should be formed so that the stone sits at even height and is not up or down on any side.

3. Very thin or flat prongs will eventually break or wear away, putting the gemstone at risk.

4. Hooked prongs or prong ends that form an before they touch the stone, will open up in time.

5. Short prongs, which provide enough contact with the gemstone, won't hold it safely in place and can catch on to clothing and other items.

6. Large prongs may overpower gemstone, making the setting less attractive.

7. If you have or plan to have children, you wouldn't want to wear a tall, narrow setting that could scratch or puncture delicate skin.

Finally, a professional jeweler may have diagrams that help you to visualize these and other types of prongs. Ask your jeweler if he or she has prong diagrams.

You should also be aware that prongs may need to be repaired over time.

Ask your jeweler to show you several prong settings and ask for advice on the safety and durability of each.

Trying many rings is best way to discover how different settings feel and look.Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.]]> Save Your Furniture, Sanity And Your Cat Claws! http://www.artwoo.com/article/save-your-furniture-sanity-and-your-cat-claws http://www.artwoo.com/article/save-your-furniture-sanity-and-your-cat-claws#comments Thu, 20 Jul 2006 02:27:16 +0000 catcatsintact furniturescratching postlovescent glandsclaws http://www.artwoo.com/article/save-your-furniture-sanity-and-your-cat-claws cats and kittens are a fantastic addition to any family. But after you've bough the litter tray it's time to worry about the furniture. You see cat's to scratch. They actually need to scratch and if you're not careful they can quickly ruin your prized furniture. But before you give up hope there are things you can do to protect your furniture without having your cat de-clawed.

You need to encourage your cat to scratch a rather than your furniture. An understanding of why scratch will help us here....

Cats scratch for many reasons. They scratch as a way to exercise and to tone their muscles. They also scratch as a way to stretch. They have in their paws so cats scratch to scent and mark their territory. They love to dig their into the post, (or your furniture!), not because they want to ruin it but as a way to clean and sharpen their claws. Oh we almost forgot they scratch and claw because it feels sooooooo good!!

So you can see that scratching is a cat's natural behavior and should be supported and encouraged to keep your cat fit and healthy. If your cat is scratching the furniture you'll find that physical punishment does not work and will alienate your cat. Sometimes a stern word or a loud clap will stop kitty while you're there, but what happens when you're gone?

For a happy cat and a harmonious household with the following tips may be of use:

The most important thing you can do is to buy a scratching post BEFORE you get the cat. This way the post will be an integral part of the cat's environment when it arrives. Once a cat has established a behavior it's very hard to break.

Ideally buy more than one post and place them in the areas that you think the cat will use most often. At a minimum place one near where the cat will sleep. Cats love to stretch when they wake up -- who doesn't.

Buy a stable post, one that doesn't wobble and feels very sturdy. Cats really dislike instability and if the post falls over its very unlikely the cat will ever use that post again. Look for a good solid base and the post should feel well made -- not flimsy.

Place a post in your main family area. Your cat wants to be part of the family spend time with you. There's nothing nicer than a cap napping in your lap on a winters day. After a hard hour or so sleeping in your lap its time to stretch. I hope there's a post nearby or there goes the furniture!

At the outset you will need to encourage the cat to scratch the post. You don't need to show your cat how to scratch -- it already knows!! Try rubbing some cat nip on the post, or tie toys and string on the post. Play with the cat around the post so that it gets used to clawing the post. Trailing wool or string up the spot will encourage clawing and is my favorite method!

Make sure the post is big enough. Your cat should be able to fully stretch on the post, so look at a minimum height of 3 feet. Cats love to dig in their front claws and arch their back to stretch their front legs. This is difficult to do if the post is too short. Beware, if the post is too short then your cat will find out that human furniture is an ideal height!

Play with your cat. Keep it happy and entertained, especially around the posts and it will be less likely to take it out on your furniture!

Finally get a post that is course and can be destroyed. Cat's love rough surfaces. They will happily pull and tear at their post and enjoy watching it deteriorate. Nylon backed carpet makes an excellent post covering, as is sisal rope. A cat can really get its claws into both these materials. If you currently have a cat which is scratching and clawing the furniture then look for a post made from similar material. If you can't find the ideal post try making your own. Mary Amos is a cat love and long time cat owner. Find more articles and resources at http://www.catfurnitureweb.com/ ]]> Getting Over the Break Up - 2 Secret Signs They Want You Back http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-over-the-break-up-2-secret-signs-they-want-you-back http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-over-the-break-up-2-secret-signs-they-want-you-back#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2008 08:36:25 +0000 utter indifferencesecret signsrush hourcouple of minutesdear friendgood chancereconciliation http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-over-the-break-up-2-secret-signs-they-want-you-back dear friend. If you're reading this, probably you are in the middle of a break up, trying to get over it somehow, but feeling a bit depressed and even hopeless. Well, the truth is, you don't have to be so downcast right now because there is a that not only your situation is not impossible but very simple and easy to resolve (no matter what you think, no matter how skeptical you are at this point).

In this article I'm going to give you a sneak pick into 2 that, if you notice them, virtually guarantee you fast with your ex into the happy long-lasting relationship... If you act properly on it and your action is well-planned. So... These "covert clues" that they're still interested are...

1. Their "emotional temperature" about you.

So basically what we need to do is "gauge" their emotions, level of feelings towards you - i.e. do they still care? One very important thing here is to stop listening to what they're saying and start noticing what they're doing, their actions, their behavior. Be like detective who pays very little attention to what suspects are saying, but watches carefully for evidence and facts.

Now what you think the opposite of love is? Hate?

Wrong!

The opposite of love is absolute and , i.e. when "they could care less" about you.

So... If they're angry with you, it's actually a good sign for us... You know why? Because it simply means they STILL CARE about you, but maybe try to conceal these feelings for some reason... But they can't hide from us really. When you start dating with another partner, for example, they may try to spy on you or suddenly begin to look and sound annoyed, irritated, jealous even (if so, it's EXCELLENT sign!). That's because they still care.

We can't be angry for a long time with people we don't care about.

If stranger occasionally pushes us in the line during the , we of course can be mad about him, but only for a . On the other hand, people (some of my closest friends even) can bear a grudge for us for MONTHS and even YEARS if they really care about us - especially if they're close friends or family members.

In most cases, effective apology helps in such kind of situations. So remember what you did in the past that may have upset them, and apologize for it. But be careful, you need to do it the right way or you can lose them forever. I hope this helps.

So, let's get further to the second "clue". It's...

2. Your ex is asking your friends about you.

This sign itself is so interesting... You see, what for would they ask if they didn't care about you? They wouldn't. At all. So if they do it, they're definitely interested in you to some level. But why don't they contact you directly?

Well, maybe they don't want to bother you or are afraid of appearing needy or clingy or "too curious" in front of you, don't want to irritate you, but... The most probable and plausible reason is:

They don't want to cause you to think that they want to get back at you!

But why? Why would they want to seem "independent" whilst the truth is they probably aren't?

Because they're simply "on the fence", as people say! They wobble from one side to another, not knowing what to decide... And that's the absolute kicker for us to jump in, take action and bring them back!

So, in the essence, what you really need is to interest and excite them with your personality again, so sit down and think:

* What did they like in you the most? (strenghen it!)

* What behavior at your side made them happy, excited, curious? (again, develop it!)

* What they didn't like in you? (hint: you need to change these actions/behavior)

Okay, after you've thought it through, it's time to act. Make up the plan, snap out of sheer depression - and take action towards getting over the breakup.

I hope I was able to assist you well. Use these methods and get the desired result, i.e. get your ex back. Good luck!See the Clean Slate Method for truly effective apologies (and how to raise interest in them too!) for getting over the break up in the Magic Of Making Up System. Best regards, Max Corvis.]]> Exchange Rates Hit Properties In Spain Sales http://www.artwoo.com/article/exchange-rates-hit-properties-in-spain-sales http://www.artwoo.com/article/exchange-rates-hit-properties-in-spain-sales#comments Tue, 25 Mar 2008 12:29:58 +0000 global credit crunchjohn lee hookerinterest rate policyproperties in spainsitting at the barglobal issueskilled worker http://www.artwoo.com/article/exchange-rates-hit-properties-in-spain-sales global credit crunch, followed by a UK minor banking wobble followed by=85do I need to go on..then the property market in Spain is listening to supping on its twentieth shot of 'Jonny' Black.

have had a rough ride over the past three years following a five year ascendancy that saw prices rise by 300 - 400 %. A correction most would say in hindsight, was inevitable. But the length of time that the market has now been 'sitting at the bar' could never have been predicted. One after another has piled on the misery to the point that nothing seems to surprise any more.

The latest nail in the proverbial has been the ascendancy in the value of the Euro, which combined with ever decreasing strength in the dollar has sent the more important rate against the pound close to a high. Gone are those skeptics that professed the demise of the new currency a few years ago when it was launched.

The main effect to the Spanish property market has been to see the drop in villa prices that has occurred over the past twelve months, to create a bounce in the market, to have been nullified. The increases that were seen in interest in January have not materialized into purchases as investors and holiday home buyers wait for their pound to give them back the purchasing power that they had expected when they did their original calculations on moving to the sun.

The blame for the ever strengthening Euro may be a result of the inability of the E.C.B. to effectively manage over such a variety of economies that make up the member nations that adopted the Euro. It was always a worry that the lack of 'mobility of labour' may be the straw to break the back of the Euro camel. By contrast to the economies that make up the US, the language barriers across Europe make it much more difficult for a worker in Greece who is made redundant, to up and move to Germany, where his profession is lacking in s. This inability of the labour force means that differing member nations will suffer different rates of employment/unemployment without the ability to transfer labour to even things out.

In a month or two things will only get worse. With millions of brits booking their summer vacations on the continent, the months of may to September are historically strong for the Euro as demand for the currency deals with the foreign exchange needs of the public.

Some good news is required to get things going again globally=85lets hope it happens before November.

I say November because the election of a new president=85whomever they choose, normally produces a bounce in the step of the largest economy in the world and whose ripple effect may help all things globally. Otherwise the Spanish market may stay suffering with a summer of more than just blue skies! Neil Ebsworth is founder of AMLASpain, http://www.amlaspain.com , The Spanish Property MLS. Read more Spanish Property articles at http://www.kfaglobal.com ]]> Quick Tune-Up For Spring Bicycle Riding http://www.artwoo.com/article/quick-tune-up-for-spring-bicycle-riding http://www.artwoo.com/article/quick-tune-up-for-spring-bicycle-riding#comments Sun, 23 Apr 2006 11:50:01 +0000 oil basedderailleurlubricatelubricantbrakescablessolvent http://www.artwoo.com/article/quick-tune-up-for-spring-bicycle-riding derailleur components, , and wheels.

~~Chain~~ If you have been using an oil-based , consider switching to a wax-based product. The only advantage to an oil-based lubricant is that it needs to be applied less frequently, but in every other way, wax-based is superior. For instance, oil collects trail dust and other things abrasive to the chain, whereas wax sheds abrasives. A recommended wax-based lube is White Lightning.

If you've been using oil-based chain lube, whether you want to switch to wax or not, you should remove the chain and clean it with a to degrease it before adding fresh lubricant. Depending on your typical riding conditions, using a solvent to degrease the chain needs to be done once a year at a minimum.

~~Derailleur Components~~ the pivot points using a good petroleum-based lube. I use Tri-Flow. Next, lubricate and adjust the derailleur , which might have stretched over the winter. Adjust so that shifting is crisp.

~~Brakes~~ Again, lubricate the cables. Use either petroleum- or wax-based lube depending on how dusty the expected typical riding conditions will be. Adjust the cables, which might also have stretched over the winter.

Check the pads: is there plenty of rubber; do the pads hit the rims evenly? If using fluid-actuated disc brakes, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir.

~~Wheels~~ Spin the wheel slowly checking for true. The wheel should not wobble at all. If it wobbles a little bit and you have the tools and skill, you can make minor adjustments using a spoke wrench. But if there is substantial wobbling, take the wheel to a shop and have a professional true the wheel.

Check tire pressure, which is bound to be low after a winter of storage. Inflate to the manufacturers recommendations that are stamped on the tire.

Now give the bike a once-over. Is the seat adjustment still a good fit? Is there excess play or tightness in the bearings of the wheels, crank, pedals, and headset? Also, for full-suspension bikes, check the suspension joints.

>From this once-over, you will be able to determine whether it is time for a major tune-up. This could range from a few adjustments to cleaning and/or replacement of some parts. Opinions differ on how often a major tune-up is needed. It depends on how much you ride, and how much maintenance you perform yourself.

Whether you do the major tune-up yourself or take the bike to a reputable bicycle shop, every now and then the following maintenance is necessary for optimal performance and safety: repacking bearings and adjusting wheel axles, headset, crankset and pedals; replacing cables; truing the wheels; making overall adjustments, such as to the derailleur and brakes. Kathryn Mosely, personal trainer and bicycling enthusiast, has written extensively on subjects related to recreational sports. For inspiration and insight, visit http://acerbike.com and http://altafitness.com - your resources for a world of bike information. ]]> How Experts Treat Ankle Sprains http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-experts-treat-ankle-sprains http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-experts-treat-ankle-sprains#comments Wed, 24 Oct 2007 04:15:01 +0000 ankle sprainanti inflammatory drugsmost common typemagnetic resonance imagingligament tearsligament strainnsaids http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-experts-treat-ankle-sprains most common type of is an inversion injury. The ankle turns in. Inversion sprains are common complications that may occur after casual strolls, "trips", falls, and sports.

Most sprains are minor but the severe ones can result in or rupture and cartilage injury to the bones within the ankle joint.

The most important risk factor for a new sprain is a previous sprain so comprehensive attention to a first sprain is critical.

A patient presenting with a sprain will have obvious swelling, discoloration, and point tenderness located in the anterolateral (front and slightly to the outside) ankle.

Physical examination may be difficult because of the pain a patient may be experiencing. X-rays should be obtained to exclude fracture. Also, any evidence of ankle instability should be a tip off that should be ordered to check for the integrity of ligaments. This last point cannot be overstressed enough since , if not attended to quickly, can lead to chronic ankle instability.

For the acute injury, the age-old recommendation of RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) is still recommended. This should be followed until the initial swelling has subsided (generally 24-48 hours). Rest should be done with the leg elevated to reduce swelling. Compression can be achieved using an ace wrap or other ankle support. Ice should not be applied directly to the skin.

Analgesics such as acetaminophen can be used for pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs () probably should be avoided since they can lead to less platelet adhesiveness, therefore causing more bleeding into the soft tissues.

Early mobilization is important.

Getting the patient active- ambulating- is important in preventing long-term disability.

When the ankle swelling and bruising has settled an active rehabilitation program should be started. A physical therapist can initiate specific treatments for pain relief and swelling such as ultrasound and advise the patient on proprioceptive (balance and proper sensation education) and muscle-strengthening exercises.

A patient may feel instability in the ankle. Strength and balance training will help this improve. Some people need additional mechanical support with orthotics (foot support) and ankle braces.

Athletes who have recurrent ankle sprains should be encouraged to do wobble board training intensively to prevent recurrence. Ankle taping prior to practice and matches or games is advised. There are several good athletic ankle supports available (eg., Swedo, Kalasi, Aircast, etc.)

Severe sprains are associated with ligament rupture, chip fractures, and cartilage injuries should have magnetic resonance imaging. Surgery may be necessary. Nathan Wei, MD FACP FACR is a rheumatologist and Director of the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For more info: http://www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com/arthritis-treatment.html ]]>