The music starts to pound and 30 barbells rise into the air. Another Body Pump class is under way at Peak Sports Club and instructor Leslie Schaeffer starts the warmup phase of a workout that fills to capacity for 12 to 15 sessions a week.

Spc. Tia Leas is fighting her own private war in Iraq, but not the type you might think. Hers is the ongoing effort to stay in shape while deployed.

For me, the simple approach to grilling is the preferred method. The ingredients of chimichurri sauce: garlic, fresh cilantro, fresh parsley, olive oil, a dash of vinegar, salt and red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of chilies may seem sublime but the effect on a steak can be ethereal.

Her binge eating had to get under control, or Danielson resident Donna Amoroso knew she would not live much longer. Weighing more than 400 pounds, Amoroso could barely walk — never mind exercise. The weight was taking its toll on her lungs and heart. The 56-year-old was hospitalized two and a half years ago for cellulite infections in her leg, and was on oxygen and Social Security disability.

History and facts about Labor Day, U.S. workers and more.

Every day we are assaulted with articles that warn us of something that could be detrimental to our physical or mental well-being. Here’s one about your dressing-room mirror.

Fitness instruction Jeremy Biernat discusses ways to improve your posture.

Word of the Day, Web Site of the Day and Number to Know.

There’s no doubt that unexplained chest pain requires a call for 911 emergency help, according to Linda Matheson, director of the OSF Regional Heart Institute. And, she said, if the person experiencing the pain says not to call, that should be the cue to get to the phone even quicker.

This week, travel reporter Adam Maser discusses car rental insurance. Sometimes, he says, you're own insurance may cover what you'll need.

Getting the kids out of bed with enough time to catch the bus can be tricky when school starts. But consider whipping up this hearty breakfast to get the family going in the morning.