Monday, December 26, 2011

Olympic Bar Maintenance

!±8± Olympic Bar Maintenance

Lets face it whether you spent 0 or 00 on your Olympic bar it probably represents a significant investment on your part. If you are running a gym, especially a CrossFit or Strength and Conditioning gym, bars are definitely one of the most used and abused pieces of equipment you have. Often though nobody takes the time to properly maintain the bars. Let's face it, the bar gets used and forgotten about, not to mention that often there are a variety of bar brands that are being used and typically the manufacturers do not send out information regarding the care of the bar. In fact I emailed all of our bar vendors asking them for information on how to maintain and care for their bars and one actually emailed me and said, "Here is our warranty information. Don't overload the bar, don't drop the bar." That was it! Nothing else. I have to tell you I was floored. So, the question remains, "How do we maintain and care for our Olympic bars?"

RUST

One thing that should be obvious about bars is that they are steel. Steel rusts when it gets wet. People sweat. Sweat=Wet=Bar Rust. Bar manufacturers try to combat this by putting a coating on the bars. The most common coatings (from least expensive to most expensive) are black oxide, chrome, zinc, and making bars from stainless steel. Even with these coatings you still need to maintain the bar so hear are a few tips on what you can do.

Clean the chalk out of the knurling. If you use chalk and you are the only one using the chalk then please clean the chalk off the bar. If you provide chalk at your gym then you need to clean the chalk off regularly (probably daily). Use a small stiff nylon bristle brush to go over the knurling. Remember that chalk dries sweaty palms. How does it do this? By absorbing moisture. Guess what it does while sitting on the bar. Absorbs moisture! Any humidity in the air any moisture at all and the chalk will absorb and hold it on the steel. So if you want your bars to not rust please clean off the chalk.

Wipe your bars down regularly with a light coat of WD-40 or 3 in 1 oil. Regularly depends on how often the bar is used. If this is in your house then twice a month should be sufficient. If you are in a commercial setting then once a week would be better. If your using them a lot and in a high humidity area then you might need to do it more frequently. WD-40 works well because it is a water displacer and it dries quickly. Spray it on a rag and wipe it down giving a good even coat across the whole bar. If you use 3 in 1 oil again place it on the rag and give a nice thin coating across the entire bar. Let it sit overnight and then wipe it down again. 3 in 1 will work awesome but it will leave your bars feeling a bit more greasy then WD-40.

Most bars today have been made to be fairly maintenance free. You typically do not have to oil the sleeves. Most of the sleeves have oil impregnated bearings or bushings. Some of the higher end bars do have small oil holes in the sleeves. For these bars you would drop in some 3 in 1 oil (DO NOT use WD-40 here) and let it work into the sleeve. Again do this after use and check it before using it again for any excess that may have leaked out to wipe it up.

STORAGE

Bars should not be stored with weight on them. PERIOD. If you leave weight on your bar, especially if it is racked, you are just begging for a bent bar. The are designed to withstand the weight not designed to permanently hold the weight. Strip you bars. I know you are tired after a hard workout but please catch your breath and put the plates away. Not only will this protect your bar, but if you are in a gym it will make the next person who uses the bar much happier if they don't have to strip it for you.

The bars can be stored on the rack unloaded or in a bar stand. If you can store them horizontally it is better the vertically. We highly recommend that you do not store needle bearing bars in a horizontal bar holder. Dropping the bar into the holder can cause damage to the needle bearings. Most gyms that teach the Olympic lifts (that would use a needle bearing bar) do not care about mirrors so it is very easy to make a wall rack that you can store the bars on. Potomac CrossFit did a great job with theirs. Take a look at the photo.

All in all its pretty simple to maintain an Olympic bar. A couple of minutes and you can protect your investment so that it lasts for years and years. If you have any other suggestions on maintaining your Olympic bar we would love to hear them. Leave us a comment.

Olympic Bar Maintenance

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Wednesday, December 7, 2011

In The Nick Of Time - It's Prolite

!±8± In The Nick Of Time - It's Prolite

The new luggage on the block is ProLite by Coronado, Inc., Skyway Luggage Company. It's a fantastic lightweight luggage with all the bells and whistles you find in the heavier weight luggage. ProLite is constructed of a three-layered split frame utilizing Zero Gravity technology for Cloudlite Construction. This feature provides uncompromised strength and a case up to 50% lighter than conventional case construction. This fully framed lightweight case offers total protection for your clothing and other valuables, while saving weight. With the airlines charging for overweight cases, and the new restrictions on the weight of luggage, this luggage has come along in the nick of time.

The upright cases have a number of functional features, and they still maintain a lighter weight than bags in its class. The 22" features a total of 16 pockets, while the 24" and 27" have 14 pockets. They also have CentraEX expansion for 2" of extra room when needed. These cases have been designed to make packing as simple as possible. There is a fold up suiter within the bag that takes up minimal space and it is perfect for storing formal or dressier clothing. Zippered pocket cross straps reduce shifting and wrinkling of clothing. The case has an elastic mesh shoe pocket as well as a micromesh zippered area. To keep you organized, there's a front exterior section that has lots of zippered and mesh pockets. There's also a retractable I.D. tag that holds a standard sized business card for to identify your luggage. A monogram area on the front of the cases for your initials will also identify your bag and keep loss to a minimum. A key fob and ticket pocket is easily located.

ProLite also features drop bottom vertical cases that are very accommodating for travel. These cases feature multiple zippered pockets and dual compartments. The interior of the front compartment panel is a water-resistant zippered pocket that is ideal for damp items. There is also an interior zippered panel between the dual sections for easy access to items one might need. This panel also acts as a second zippered pocket. Trips that have multiple stays make this a perfect case to pack and unpack. The case acts as two cases divided for ease in separating clothing. It is also ideal when sharing with another traveler. The rolling duffle also has two spacious packing compartments. It has internal construction flaps that are held into place in a long elastic pocket. The duffle stands on its own for stability and traveling ease. When the duffle is not in use the construction flaps fold in and the case will lay flat for storage.

The duffle also encases a large water-resistant zippered pocket. This new discount luggage also features a rolling garment bag with a total of 18 pockets. For your packing convenience, it has an array of pockets and zippered compartments. It will accommodate longer dresses or pant suits and has a removable panel extension with shoe pockets. Micromesh pockets will hold smaller items conveniently. With three hook hangers this garment bag can pack up to three times the capacity of similar cases. There is a mesh covering that protects contents of the bag and incorporates multiple zippered pockets. The rolling garment bag opens like a book and does not need to be unpacked for use on your trip. It can be your traveling closet as all of your clothing is accessible and handy. For further ease in packing you can use any household hangers and there are trolleys at both ends of the bag. There's also a retractable I.D. tag that holds your business card, a key fob and a ticket pocket. Of course, all of the Pullman cases are equipped with the TSA combination lock allowed by the airlines. TSA security personnel have a master key they can use to get into the case should they deem it necessary. Meanwhile, your belongings are safely locked.

With a total of 27 pockets the rolling tote is designed to hold all of your favorite travel accessories comfortably and safely. It is fully laptop compatible with an internal neoprene padded laptop pocket and padded accessory pockets to keep all your electronics secure and safe. A zippered water-resistant pocket will also allow you to pack a wet bathing suit at the last minute. It is an ideal size to fit under the seat in front of you, or overhead on a bus or plane. There are front organizer panels equipped with multiple pockets and external easily accessible elastic mesh utility pockets perfect for storing water bottles, keys and anything else you need frequently. All of the ProLite cases feature Smooth-Zip zippers, a quiet wheel system and a Comfort Grip handle system.

The Carry-On satchel weighs a mere 1.8 lbs. and has five pockets. It has a removable shoulder strap equipped with a comfort pad and a large main compartment. There's also a water resistant pocket and footing to protect the bottom of the bag. It's designed to piggyback on top of any of the ProLite rolling pieces by a convenient slide-on feature in the back of the bag. The handy size of 10"x16.5"x9" makes the case perfect for odds and ends, and ideal for corporate gifts. Company logos or names can be silk-screened or embroidered on the case. The ProLite luggage collection has been designed by 10 engineers in the luggage industry with a total of 300 years of experience and it shows!

In The Nick Of Time - It's Prolite

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Sunday, December 4, 2011

Argo by Teafco Petagon Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Tokyo Pink, Medium

!±8± Argo by Teafco Petagon Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Tokyo Pink, Medium

Brand : Teafco | Rate :

| Price : $65.00
Post Date : Dec 04, 2011 11:37:47 | Usually ships in 24 hours

Argo by Teafco Petagon Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Tokyo Pink, Medium

The Petagon by ARGO was designed especially for all the canine-loving pet fashionistas who travel with their furry friends everywhere, whether it’s taking your furry friend for a day out in the city or going away on vacation. The Petagon is Airline Approved and meets TSA requirements for pet carriers in passenger cabins. The Petagon fits perfectly underneath an airline passenger seat. The Petagon is ultra light weight; with 5 external zipper pockets for easy organization and storage; it has a double zipper top for easy entry; made with dual layer mesh windows for reinforcement and providing great ventilation; it has a smart strap for car seat belt to slide through; comes with a removable water-resistant cool padding for quick cleaning. The Petagon is recommended for pets up to 15 LBS.

More Specification..!!

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Sunday, November 27, 2011

Toiletry Bag - Keep Your Essentials on Hand No Matter Where You Are Going

!±8± Toiletry Bag - Keep Your Essentials on Hand No Matter Where You Are Going

These days there is often doubt as to what a traveling airline passenger is allowed to take on board with his carry-on luggage. Where toiletries are concerned, it is possible to purchase a toiletry bag that can easily be taken on with check in bags. Doing this will help avoid problems at the security posts.

You can buy a dental kit which contains oral care items. You are provided with toothpaste, mouthwash and a toothbrush. The travel size packets contain no more than 3 ounces, which is the TSA approved travel amount.

This toiletry bag can easily be used to stash at the office and be used to freshen up after lunch or can be packed in the car for emergency use. Another travel pack may contain single use items which you can store away in your purse or pocket. They are so convenient they can be taken any place you go. Your concerns about sanitary issues will be addressed by this pack since it contains germicide wipe, hand wipe, toilet seat cover, disposable glove paper towel, and tissues.

The items are contained in a see through pouch and can be resealed. There is a special toiletry bag for women that will meet their special needs and they can be used on any occasion, whether while traveling or on business or pleasure trips. In this type of travel bag you will find woman's deodorant, folding comb, disposable razor, and toothbrush, hairspray, and body lotion. These kits are available in easy to pack cases.

They are also convenient to take to the office or to the gym. There is a man's travel kit for his special travel needs also. They contain a disposable razor and small can of save cream, a comb, toothpaste and toothbrush, and a man's bar of soap.

Again the container is easy to fit into carry-on luggage. Sometimes a travel kit will come in the style of a hanging bag. These are useful for hanging on a hotel bathroom door so that your accessories are within your easy reach. The bag design is see through for easy access to the contents. It can be hung up from any hook. These bags are provided with many pockets on the inside for your storage convenience but they do not already have pocket sizes toiletries in them. There are many such bags on the market for your travel and away from home convenience.

It is important that you get a durable toiletry bag. Because of the very real possibility of spillage occurring in the interior compartment, you want to know that any mess that is created can be easily cleaned. The inside of the bag should be easily cleaned, and not prone to staining and any other damage.

So the next time you plan a trip, you may want to do some research and find the toiletry bag that will make that trip more enjoyable because you are able to take you convenience items with you in a compact form for traveling.

Toiletry Bag - Keep Your Essentials on Hand No Matter Where You Are Going

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Thursday, November 24, 2011

Backpacks for Back to School

!±8± Backpacks for Back to School

Get Your Logo in Front of Customers with a Backpack

When you hear the word backpack, innovation and attention-getting may not be the first traits that come to your mind. But, it is time to give the backpack a little more credit. In the promotional world, a backpack is an effective item to put your logo on for high visibility. Backpacks have always been an essential back-to-school product, but their use goes far beyond the classroom. From the corporate traveler to the extreme hiker to the gym frequenter, the multi-functionality of a backpack makes it the perfect item for almost any promotion.

Consider putting your logo on a backpack and use it for your next giveaway. It is a great alternative to the tote, t-shirt, or other promotional item. Backpacks are durable, can be found at multiple price points, are great for both men and women, and have a variety of functions. There is sure to be a backpack that will accentuate your message and resonate with your target audience.

A Backpack for Any Audience

When making your backpack buying decisions, think of your audience first. Make sure to choose a style that your recipient will relate to. Some styles include:

•Traditional Backpacks. Simple designs with color pop and budget-friendly details make the traditional backpack a favorite for mass corporate giveaways. Think of it as an alternative to the tradeshow tote, or fold it flat and use it for your next direct mail promotion.

•Sport Packs. When you are looking for a product to appeal to an active audience, the sport pack is the way to go. Padded shoulder straps, multiple pockets for water bottles and gear, and suspension systems are often seen in sport packs, as these are for those who are really on the move. Retail brands are also important when looking for a sport pack. Quality and durability is key with this audience, and associating your brand with a recognizable retail brand will continue to build your brand image and credibility.

•Cinches. Lightweight and ultra-portable, the cinch is a great option for fitness programs, sports markets, or as a creative way to package a new product or hand out information. The cinch is typically a lower cost item with a high ROI.

•Slings. If you are looking to grab a more fashion-forward market, the sling is the bag for you. They have a more trendy shape than the traditional backpack with one strap, and are typically smaller in size, so they can be used every day.

•Compu-Backpacks. From the young professional to the seasoned executive, a compu-backpack is an everyday staple that goes to and from the office and is seen by multiple eyes a day. It is the perfect choice for recruiting, orientation, or as a gift with purchase for any tech-related product or service.

Recent Trends

As with all retail products, fashion and social trends are important in helping to evolve the design and function of backpacks. Show your customers or employees that you are forward thinking by searching for backpacks with trendy features. Below are the top three backpack trends this year.

•Electronics Compatibility and Protection - As the use of iPods, iPads and SmartPhones increases, the number of backpacks that have compatible features also increases. Headphone ports, padded compartments specifically designed to protect these items, and integrated quick-access pockets are just a few of the new features you will see that will excite any techy audience.

•TSA-Compliant - Going through security at the airport has just gotten easier. TSA-compliant backpacks allow you to go through security without taking your laptop out of your bag. Simply unzip your bag and lay it flat on the conveyor belt. It is a must for any frequent traveler.

•Eco-Friendly - Backpacks haven't taken a back seat to the eco movement either. Green materials such as recycled PET, jute and non-woven polypropylene help ensure there are backpacks to appeal to the earth-conscious consumer as well.

If you are still not convinced that the backpack is the right product for your next promotion, re-read this article or get a sample from your promotional products company to touch and feel. Best Promotions has a great variety of backpacks at any price point. View their selection and order a sample today.

Backpacks for Back to School

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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Prudential Hotel in Kowloon Review - Big Rooms With Affordable Rates in Hong Kong

!±8± Prudential Hotel in Kowloon Review - Big Rooms With Affordable Rates in Hong Kong

Hong Kong's hotels are known to have some of the most expensive rates with small rooms. Which is why the Prudential hotel is unique amongst the hundreds of accommodations in Hong Kong. With big rooms and affordable rates the Prudential is in a unique class of its own.

Located in the Kowloon Peninsula in the popular Tsim Tsa Tsui district it is not far from several popular shopping districts like Mongkok and Prince Edward. And the city's famous Kowloon Park is just a short 5 minute walk away from the hotel's doorsteps.

The Prudential is in a prime location right on Nathan Road, also known as the Golden Mile. This popular avenue runs from the southern tip of Kowloon and all the way up to the new territories. There are many popular restaurants and shopping to be explored all around the hotel so you won't really need to travel far to get what you need to enjoy your stay. And if you do want to get out and about to explore more of Hong Kong you can ride the city's popular MTR train system conveniently located under the hotel which makes stops into Hong Kong island.

There are several room types in the Prudential but the most popular and affordable ones are the superior rooms (32 sq m.) which are available in either a set of twin beds or king sized bed. The hotel has also gone through a recent renovation except the bathrooms though for some reason. But it is still in good shape though. And the rooms are big enough to accommodate a large work desk and even a couch big enough to sleep on. Anyone who often visits Hong Kong will know that a room as big as there's is a rare commodity.

The only downside though is the small roof top pool and an even smaller gym with outdated equipment. But considering the price of the room rate and what other hotels are charging with no amenities it's not a real big negative at all.

The Prudential Hotel's low season rates (June - September) cost around US (as of writing) and that's during the hottest months of the year. You can expect to pay around twice as much during the high season and especially during Chinese New Year. However you should not be discouraged at all as you can usually find discounted rates by booking through a hotel reservation agency based in Asia.

Prudential Hotel in Kowloon Review - Big Rooms With Affordable Rates in Hong Kong

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Friday, November 11, 2011

Argo by Teafco Petagon Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Maldives Blue, Medium

!±8±Argo by Teafco Petagon Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Maldives Blue, Medium

Brand : Teafco
Rate :

Price : $65.00
Post Date : Nov 11, 2011 19:33:46
Usually ships in 24 hours

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Tuesday, November 1, 2011

5 Exercises Everyone Should Be Able To Perform - Part 2

!±8± 5 Exercises Everyone Should Be Able To Perform - Part 2

In Part 1, I discussed the five essential exercises that serve as precursors to Performance Improvement Training (PIT). The five discussed were:

1.) Squat

2.) Lunge

3.) Step-Up

4.) Push-up

5.) Ab Crunch

What was established was the following: a.) these exercises can serve as foundational assessments for the fitness professional; b.) these exercises require no equipment, thus, they can be performed anywhere/anytime; c.) these exercises are representation of everyday movements practiced by humans unless a functional alteration is present (injury history, birth defect, neurological disorder). It was also mentioned, that in my experience I would have liked to include a "pulling" exercise like the chin-up or pull-up, however, because of the need for a stable bar, I was never able to incorporate it in this movement circuit. I caught a lot of flack because the chin-up was excluded because "pulling" exercises are always performed in everyday life. This is so, but initially, general population clients (GPC) cannot pull their bodyweight or become intimidated at the sight of a fixed bar overhead and cringe at the thought of lifting their body. Bottom line? I like the exercise, but working with GPC's, it not one I see making exercise program adherence easier and more functional than it already is. Wouldn't the ab crunch be considered a "pulling" exercise? Why do we equate a pulling exercise with biceps or back? Isn't lifting the torso from a supine position a "pull"? Something to ponder...

Let's examine some tips for each exercise and points to remember:

1.) Squat

Heels in contact with floor

This is a cue used to remind clients that they must engage the glutes and hamstrings in the movement.

Are elevated heels needed?

A board under the heels initially is a band-aid, but it will assist your client in "understanding" what you want. Eventually, the board should be reduced or eliminated and mobility of the ankles should be increased.

Lordotic back on descent

Tell-tale sign of a weak core.

Core & Glute activation

This is so important and the reason why we need to squat correctly. If the client feels it too much in the quads, the movement is not being done correctly.

What prevents a good squat?

Flexibility and mobility are the culprits to poor squat form. Also, many clients try to perform the squat with loads. This is why we favor the bodyweight squat as a primal movement to be mastered unloaded.

How deep is deep?

Again, a question of flexibility and mobility. Once these are accomplished, then it becomes a question of overall strength.

2.) Lunge

Back foot/leg placement

How many times does a client feel it in the back leg on a lunge? Typically, they feel the stretch of the tight adductor of the back leg. The working leg is the front, so foot placement and "control" become important.

Core Activation

Abdominals should be drawn in with torso "proud" and hips mobile. Typically, GPCs perform this with their stomach hanging out and no TVA activation. That is okay, as these 5 exercises are used to also teach core activation. Normally, TVA activation (or drawing in") is taught separately. It can be taught separately, but I have found that some helpful cues including "touch" or "poking" the abs during movements, makes the client think.

Heel in contact with floor

Usually, client with tight lower leg muscles will have an "unsteady" placement foot. It can also mean an immobile ankle on that leg. What we want to accomplish is making the client understand that "drive" should come from the glutes and hips.

Can knee go over foot?

This is a tough one to explain. Next time you go upstairs, take a look and tell me if your knee goes over your foot? Mechanically, the knee can go over the front of the foot, but we are taught just the opposite. However, in an efficient moving body, it is acceptable because everything else is working right. In GPCs, it can be a tough call. If the heel placement is correct and "drive" is initiated "thru" the heel, then there should be no pain in the quadriceps tendon, if and when, the knee goes over the toe.

Forward leg is lead leg

This is easily cued by instructing the client to imagine raising there bodies on the concentric motion straight upwards rather than forward.

3.) Step-Up

How high to place the steps?

Typically, start lower than a 90 degree angle from the knee to the hip joints. A sedentary GPC, who will try to raise the knee to 90 degrees to place the foot on top of the step, will usually demonstrate back extension and poor psoas strength due to hip flexor tightness or simply weakness. Also, back stance leg will be weak from no glute activation and gastroc weakness. So start a step lower than 90 degrees.

Heel in contact with step

Same as for the lunge. The heel must be cued to engage the hamstrings and glutes.

Leave foot on step or "march"?

Typically, I like to leave the foot on the step. Once the client has established some conditioning, we perform a "marching" step-up. However, during the "marching", cues are missed and form is sacrificed. "Marching" can also be used for conditioning.

4.) Push-Up

Form a Table Top

We want to avoid the "clothesline effect" discussed in Part 1 here, so in order to visually cue the client, we ask them to conform their body into a table-top. That is what we want...initially we won't get that, but now the visual goal has been established.

Watch protruding neck/chin

Tight neck muscles and weak scapulae will elicit the deviated form like "jutting" chin or "protruding abs". This is a sign of weakness and failed neural coordination. This is why modified versions of the push-up are advocated.

Master modified before going to standard

Usually, the taller the person, the more "clothesline effect" you will see. This is because of the long lever arm the body creates and when accompanied by overall weakness, they lose form. They may be able to knock out 15-30 reps, but we are talking poor execution.

34+ Variations

The push-up can be varied in so many ways using small, inexpensive equipment. It is a fun exercise and perfect for upper body development. That is why it is so important to maximize perfect form, so that the advanced variations can be enjoyed.

5.) Ab Crunch

Do not pin the feet.

We want to establish abdominal trunk flexion without creating momentum. Therefore, we do not want to provide artificial leverage. Have the client lie supine with hands behind the head, keeping the elbows "open".

Flex the trunk on 10-20 degrees

No need to pull the neck here. We want to pull the trunk forward using integrated stabilization between the pelvis, calves, and lower back. It is important that the feet stay flat on the ground and the knees are bent. Make sure the client does not allow knees to "bow out". If this happens, place a ball or yoga block in between the knees and ask for them to "lock up" the object. The hips must be able to stabilize even though they are known for mobility.

Place your hand at the client's lower back

I have also used this cue to help clients understand the role of the pelvis and transverse abdominals in supine positions. By placing my hand at the lordotic curve and instructing them to "press" into it, they can engage the proper muscles. If you feel uncomfortable placing your hand there because of client's sweat, client is ticklish, or you simply feel uncomfortable doing so., use a crumpled piece of paper.

If the neck stars to jut....

If you see the neck muscles begin to engage relentlessly, always bring the client back to the instruction of placing pressure on your hand.

Understanding that these exercises are not the "end all--be all" to an exercise program is crucial when implementing progressions. These exercises relate to some of the positions the body conforms to: supine, prone, staggered stance, parallel stance, and locomotion. In GPC's, I like to introduce twisting and rotation in a Phase 2 Auxiliary Exercises program 5 to 6 weeks later. Why? I want to build a solid foundation of sagittal plane work that promotes overall strength, increases mobility and bodyweight control.

5 Exercises Everyone Should Be Able To Perform - Part 2

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Saturday, October 29, 2011

How To Improve Your Advertising Using Outdoor Media - PART 1

!±8± How To Improve Your Advertising Using Outdoor Media - PART 1

STOPPING POWER!

Bold. Eye-Catching! Attention Getting.

There are few rivals to the SHOWSTOPPING POWER of a great visual message.

Outdoor advertising historically has relied on sheer size to command attention.

Oversize hand-painted boards that measured 10' X 44' or as big as 14' X 48' were icons along major highway arteries. They supported and in some cases, supplanted television advertising for many clients.

Most offered a clear sightline and landscape dominance which resulted in nearly exclusive presence to vehicular eyeballs.

As technology evolved, and printing quality improved, the long term hand painted boards gave way to paper posters which could more readily be installed and removed. This allows you, as an advertiser, the opportunity to 'Play Outside' as printing costs were cheaper and posting flights could be shorter.

While cities and municipalities enjoyed their tax percentages of this outdoor boom, it led to a cluttered landscape which many cities felt devalued the hometown pride.

Tighter build restrictions compelled incumbent and new Outdoor suppliers to revamp their offerings to be more aesthetic, more harmonious with their environment and more responsible land use in both rural and urban settings.

When you're ready to take your message in a new direction, Outdoor Media offers you a huge buffet of choices.

Differing formats. Vibrant Colour reproduction. Special 'Snipes' (extensions beyond regular borders), add panache and memorability.

There remains a tremendous amount of versatility when you use Outdoor advertising.

Importantly, Outdoor can be used in isolation or in tandem with other media.

• One option might be to use an Outdoor Poster campaign, coupled with Television. This has been used by numerous advertisers who have extended the visual of their TV message to Outdoors for reinforcement to the broadcast campaign.

• Sometimes a combination of vertical and horizontal messages work well as complements to each other. This happens in the case where you combine Transit Shelters and Horizontal Posters to continue a theme or style but have to adjust by market for the respective availabilities of different formats.

• As part of a grander campaign, depending on your budget, the audio portion is satisfied through a strong Radio campaign which allows you to target specific listeners based on radio station format. This is a great platform to then introduce Outdoor Horizontal Posters, in conjunction with Transit Shelters, and perhaps magazines or On-Line ads to create multiple touch points that your customer can relate to.

An eye-popping visual with a crisp, 'Bang-On' creative message can resonate with the customer long after other media have run their course.

If you can distill your message to fit within space limits in Outdoor, then you've struck gold.

Additionally, there is excellent geographic targetability with Outdoor. Your message can be refined to be as specific as a neighbourhood, or as extensive as a multi-market Launch Weight campaign.

As with every media option, the naysayers will dismiss Outdoor advertising as being ineffective due to being stationary, but there will always be limitations to each media chosen.

While a case can be made for the restrictions of a stagnant board or poster, the power of a properly placed Outdoor sign can drive the message home as your customers are driving home.

Vehicular visibility is paramount as consumers are creatures of habit. We take the same route to and from work, school, the gym, the sporting arenas etc., so the repetition to build awareness and be top of mind is built in to the posters' geographic placement.

For the advertiser who fears too much exposure to the same audience is detrimental, they can take comfort in knowing that locations are typically rotated every four weeks to ensure equity among advertisers and freshness of message across different neighbourhoods of each city.

As much as there is uniformity among poster companies for parallel specifications in their sizes, which helps defray production costs, there is diversity from market to market in the Outdoor offerings.

If you've done advertising for yourself or clients already, then some of these choices may be familiar to you. If not, then we're glad to share a sampling of the the vast buffet of choices you can make when taking your campaign outdoors.

• Superboards ( horizontal signage at 10' X 44' or 14' X 48' ( and depending on the market, some specialty signs can be double this size)

• Horizontal Paper Posters (10' X 20')

• Transit Shelters ( also known as TSA's) 4' X 6' and usually Backlit for enhanced visibility

• Scrolling Transit Shelters - perhaps a dozen advertisers on a continuous scroll in sequence like a window shade

• You can also take advantage of signage in Bus and Subway and Airport terminals

• Vinyl Wraps around buses or trucks, or on the side of tractor trailers

• Taxi Tops feature triangular faces for advertising

• Signage in washrooms and fitness change rooms

• Exterior Buses with signage on the side or the back of the bus

• Creative graphics have found their way on to Rickshaws and eco-friendly vehicles

• Mall Posters- a sister to Transit Shelters are a very popular option

• Elevator ads - TV screens inside and decaled doors outside

These may provide a few ideas for some future choices for you. If you are ever challenged in your advertising to think Outside the Box...Just think Outdoors.