Dufisthenics

So I have commented before about a few individuals using oxygen deprivation masks at the gym and how they seemed inappropriate based on the individual wearing it and the exercise they were doing while deprived. (ie. bench press) My understanding of the mask is they are to be used when you are challenging yourself anaerobically, not doing conventional sets of anything at a relaxed pace.  I had not seen anyone wearing the masks in quite awhile, until today.

Today’s masked man was wearing it while walking on the treadmill.  This was not a man of normal proportions.  If I were to guess he was carrying at least an extra 125 pounds on his frame.  I assume his main focus on the treadmill was to burn calories.  To me logic would dictate that limiting the amount of oxygen your body is taking in does not serve that goal. A quick Google search seems to back up my theory, although the web site of a retailer of the mask of course claims the opposite.

I would think allowing your body more oxygen allows you to work at a higher level which in turn creates more of a calorie furnace.  Wearing the mask may tire you out quicker but that won’t make your waist line decrease faster.

The gym was very full today which is normal for the day before Thanksgiving, the most gluttonous day of the year on most calendars.  I stuck to a standard back and shoulder superset routine.  I will get my headstart on calories with the four mile holiday run I will be starting off with tomorrow morning.

Today’s Workout

5 minutes cardio/stretching

20 pull ups

Seated Cybex overhead shoulder press – 200lbs x 10

10 pull ups

Seated Cybex overhead shoulder press – 250lbs x 6

10 pull ups

Seated Cybex overhead shoulder press – 290lbs x 3

10 pull ups

Front to side alternating straight arm raises – 10lbs x 15

Seated low row – 150lbs x 10

Front to side alternating straight arm raises – 15lbs x 12

Seated low row – 180lbs x 10

Front to side alternating straight arm raises – 20lbs x 10

Seated low row – 210lbs x 6