Fun and Fitness: Health mag has its good and bad

There are many magazines you can turn to if you're interested in getting some fitness advice. One of the more popular ones out there is Men's Health. You know the magazine that typically has a shirtless celebrity like Ryan Reynolds sporting a peak conditioned physique? Yeah, that would be the one. Hell, people are so familiar with the magazine these days that if you ask someone to perform the "Men's Health pose," chances are they'll nail it perfectly.

There is a ton of stuff in Men's Health that can aid you in your daily nutrition and fitness routines. There are plenty of different training programs offered which range from beginner to advanced level athletes. For example, November's issue showcases UFC's Josh Koscheck and some of the training techniques he uses to get to that next level. Your grandfather might not be interested in doing Koscheck's routine but it provides some insight and opportunity for certain individuals to challenge themselves.

There are also columns on new supplements and drugs that recent research has shown to be beneficial. These articles should often be taken with a grain of salt given that Men's Health is full of ads, half of which happen to be the aforementioned products. Let's not forget that the so-called "research" is often done in a lab that happens to be at the specific supplement or drug headquarters; of course the research is always astounding!

Many of the workouts suggested are great and provide a nice variation for those looking to mix things up. However some of these authors make bold claims that they can't back up. For example, November's issue has an article titled The World's Most Efficient Workout. Come on, really? The subtitle goes on to explain that you can transform your body in less than an hour a week. Now there is a lot of truth in that you don't have to spend a lot of time training to see some great results; however, the last time I checked, most of us don't see impressive gains by training only 45 minutes a week.

The magazine also offers recipes, tips on improving one's career or self confidence and even provides advice on how to improve your sex life. There is definitely a lot here that even the average reader can gain from. All in all, you have to take the good with the bad and Men's Health is no exception to the rule. Just because it worked for New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, doesn't mean it will necessarily work for you. Just in case the ladies feel left out, have no fear, there is also Women's Health. I predict Katy Perry to grace December's cover.