First of all, available review divides equipments into two categories. Most popular gym equipments with rods and bars, which provide resistance needed for exercise. They easily fold up and cover very little space. They are easy to use and convenient. The second type of home gym equipment mostly consists of large and heavy machines, which cover lot of space and need enough body power to perform exercise.

Bowflex falls in first category of gym equipments, which comes with rods and bars. The machine has it's own strengths and weaknesses. Many consider it as one of the most useful equipment.

Some salient features of Bowflex.

1)The Bowflex is very easy to assemble and it covers less space than any other heavy gym equipments.

2) Bowflex provides you the facility to perform 15 varieties of programs.

3)If your exercise time with Bowflex do not match with that of the instructors even than you can perform your exercise, as Bowflex comes with excellent media material on how to use. There are also Bowflex Treadmill machines available.

4)If you have any heart problem, then you can access your heart rate and capacity to perform workouts with the help of unique "Heart Rate Grip" feature.

5)You can move freely because the space provided within the treadmill is enough.

6)You can make adjustments at desired angles with the help of the given adjustment keys.

7)Some of the Bowflex models come with a fan, which can be switched on at various speeds to perform cooling effect at the time of exercise.

8)With the help of specially designed "Strike Zone deck" you experience a smooth landing on the deck and do not sense a painful feeling at your heels as you experience the bare machine.

9)There are still many facilities that are embedded such as displaying the time, the distance, speed, calories burnt and heart rate while performing the workouts.

10)A three-horse power motor of Bowflex can produce different speeds starting from 1 mph to 10 mph to perform different levels of workouts.

The price of Bowflex ranges from $1500 to $3000. Of course, it is not cheap but it is strong and sturdy, high quality strength trainer, which will do everything that you need. It also includes a lat pulldown, a chest press, a 200 pound weight stack, and a leg extension/curl feature. It can approximately provide you a guarantee of 10 years and about 2-year guarantee for the spare parts.

Workout on Bowflex on a regular basis will help you reach your goals if you can not maintaining consistency.

Do not forget to consult an expert before starting to workout with Bowflex to ensure its benefits and to know if you are fit for it.

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You may ask what types of bodybuilding activities you can do at home, at the gym, or in the great outdoors. The key to successfully maintain an exercise program is to find activities that you are interested in with out the knowledge you are exercising, character building, and bodybuilding.

As adults kayaking, swimming, and diving are activities in or near water that can build bodies. Tennis, softball, and skating can be fun bodybuilding activities. Teens participate in activities during school. Typically teens will walk more than an adults will just by the sheer fact the malls are bigger than ever. The activity that you choose or that chooses you must be fun to you. Both adults and teens are drawn to partake in gym-type-sports like racquetball or basketball.

If you ever watch a relatively active child they are naturals at exercise. They don't wake up in the morning and decide to put on running shoes to exercise; however they wake up on the go. Jumping, running, and skipping are just natural bodybuilding activities for children. Though today's society promotes the opposite behavior, with so many conveniences that are unnecessary, there are still kids that are outside from daybreak until dinnertime. Climbing trees, swinging on the neighbors rope swing or riding a bicycle are typical child-like activities and are bodybuilding activities too.

Exercise, weight training, and bodybuilding activities are not the only aspect of healthful lifestyles. Diet and proper rest are key ingredients also. The word diet tends to conjure the image of the latest gimmick in order to be thin. With a healthy person, diet is merely a balanced and structured feeding of the body. Allowing you body the proper amount of down time is essential in that with the correct fueling your body will perform more efficiently in ever aspect of your life.

Bodybuilding can be a fun and creative pastime for any one. Beginning or continuing a regimen of heavy-duty weight training and serious bodybuilding might not be for everyone. But an activity that promotes healthful habits and lend to the lean fitness of your body is always a plus.

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What is Whey Protein Whey protein is actually a term used to describe a group of globular proteins that can be separated from whey. When cow's milk is used to manufacture cheese, it also leads to the production of whey, which may or may not be discarded. It is a mixture of lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin and serum albumin.Similar to protein found in egg white, whey protein can also be irreversibly changed by heat. When made part of the pasteurization process, it becomes less bio-active. If not, whey protein naturally becomes bio-active which basically means it contains a high concentration of cysteine and consequently glutathione, an antioxidant that is essential to improved fitness and health. Bio-active whey protein is an active source for protein but exposure to extreme heat can easily reduce the amount of cysteine in it without affecting its protein content and basic food value.

What Makes It Good for the Body Because whey protein contains an inordinate amount of essential and non-essential acids, it frequently plays a prominent role in most low-carb and high-protein diets. Another reason for this is because of its low content of fats and of course, carbohydrates.

Why Pregnant Mothers Love Whey Protein A number of OBs have advised their gravid patients to increase their intake of whey protein because it will provide the basic amount of amino acids needed by the growing infants inside their bodies. An increased intake of whey protein will naturally improve and speed up the development of the baby. Also, increased intake of whey protein will indirectly improve the immune system of the baby. In its growing stages, it is highly vulnerable to different types of illnesses. With the help of whey protein, it grow faster and better and more equipped to defend itself against any health complication.

Whey Protein for Bodybuilding Enthusiasts For bodybuilders, muscle growth is everything and that's why they love whey protein so much. Studies have satisfactorily proven that whey protein can lead to acceleration of muscle development. This is welcomed news especially for bodybuilders who are only a few weeks away from the date of competition but is still in high need of muscle growth.

How it Helps Athletes Busy Recovering from Old Injuries In this case, whey protein saves the day once more because it can be used to supplement diets of individuals who are suffering from compromised immune systems. Basically, it helps athletes heal faster and feel better.

A Weapon against Degenerative Diseases Although you can't truly say that any disease is less painful than the other if both have life-altering consequences, it is an inarguable fact however that degenerative diseases are one of the worst health complications to suffer from. These illnesses tend to subject people to a protracted form of suffering and with symptoms with increasing levels of severity. They commonly affect three systems in particular: the nervous system, the muscular system and the skeletal system.

Although rarely curable, degenerative diseases can be treated through chemotherapy, surgical operations and the proper diet. Whey protein is often a part of this diet because of its rehabilitative benefits especially when it comes to muscle growth. Cancer, diabetes and AIDS have symptoms that causes muscle strength and growth to deteriorate – an undesirable effect that can be combated with increased intake of whey protein.

Where to Buy Whey Protein Are you sufficiently convinced of the benefits of whey protein then? If so, you should be happy to know that you can avail of commercial whey protein product in most supermarkets and specialty food stores specializing in healthy food.

Ending with a Warning Whey protein is good for the body – no doubt about it – but too much consumption of anything is never beneficial. Too much intake of whey protein can lead to unnecessary complications of your liver. And need we remind you that the liver is the next most important organ in the body? Lastly, lactose intolerant individuals must consume whey protein isolate rather than the normal variety as the former has less lactose content.

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Exercise for Weight Loss Regular weight training can help take off some excess body fat, increase muscle mass and increase the metabolic rate. This means their body will burn calories at a faster rate. In order to lose weight by exercise alone, you need to burn an excess of 500 calories per day or 3,500 calories per week to lose 1 pound. I have had the best response with clients that practice a combination of watching their caloric intake and exercising.

The actual amount of time it would take you to burn all those calories depends on how much you weigh, your chosen activity and the intensity of exercise. It is important to exercise daily. Aim for 30 – 60 minutes of exercise per day. Consistency is necessary if you are really serious about losing weight. Gradually increases your intensity as you get more physically fit.

Exercise for Your Bones Fighting bone loss is another great reason to start lifting weights. Early in the bone loss process, you may not see any signs, but eventually it can lead to broken bones, the disfiguring dowager's hump, loss of height and certain types of back pain.

Throughout life, your body loses bone. New bone grows to replace lost bone. The rate of new bone growth changes as you age. Young adults reach their peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 35. That is when your bone is the strongest. From about 35 years and older, bone mass slowly declines. A rate at which your bone declines can be minimized and osteoporosis can be preventable. An active lifestyle, weight-bearing exercise and proper eating can significantly slow down the rate of bone loss.

Weight-bearing exercise will help your entire body and help you maintain bone mass. Resistance exercises help maintain bones by strengthening the muscles around them. Building muscle strength will make you less prone to injury.

It is important to have the right strength training program that includes all of the major muscle groups. For the upper body this includes the back, chest, biceps, triceps and shoulders. For the lower body, the quads, hamstrings, calves and gluteus maximus should all be targeted. And don't forget the abdominal and lower back muscles which can improve posture, help relieve lower back pain and assist in everyday movements.

Remember to start slow and gradually increase your weights. I recommend two to three times per week, performing each exercise for at least two sets for 10 to 12 repetitions and a 30 – 45 second rest in between each set. Make sure stretching is included in the workout with each muscle group.

Be patient with yourself. You won't achieve significant gains in the short-term. Exercise needs to be a part of your lifestyle, not just a short-term activity for a limited period of time. You are never too old to start exercising. You decide how active you want to be. The payoff of an active lifestyle is certainly worth the benefits. Ask anyone who is active. For more information and tips on exercise, go to http://www.easyexercisetips.com

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What Is a Stability Ball?

This is a large and inflatable ball used as an exercise equipment. Despite being air-filled, it is generally heavy-duty and capable to hold 600 to 700 pounds of weight. It is comfortable and gives good support. It perfectly suits the trainee as it easily goes with the structure of the body.

This exercise tool is also sometimes called as the physioball or the Swiss Ball.

The good thing about using the stability ball is it reduces the perception of 'working' in training, especially for beginners. It gives some element of 'play' as you get rough with the training. It adds some fun and excitement as you advance in the movements and techniques.

Another good point with the ball is that it can be used by anybody. No fitness level is required. It is very portable and light weight, easy to bring along even when traveling. It is also inexpensive compared to other exercise equipment and it could last for a very long time.

How Stability Balls Came About?

The use of the stability balls for training can be traced in rehabilitation. As early as the 1900's, physical therapists have been using balls in addressing the neurological disorders of their patients.

Then, in the early 1960's, Aquilino Cosani, an Italian toy maker, made the ball and sold it, known then as the 'Gymnastik.' Two decades after, Cosani came up with a company called Gymnic and became the major supplier of the stability ball to most rehabilitation programs and centers.

The ball then shifted from the rehabilitation to the athletic area, in the 90's. It was used to condition the body of professional athletes. From then on, the ball became very prominent in the fitness community.

At present medical specialists and fitness professionals very much recommend the use of the stability ball by the public. It serves more than solving physical problems. It is good in preventing you from having one.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Stability Ball?

The stability ball definitely is best to improve the strength of the abs and the lower-backs. It improves as well the functional strength, balance and flexibility of the body.

1. Proper Alignment Using the ball during training will test the body to make use of the different parts to maintain the proper balance. The dynamic movements during exercise will improve the natural motor reflexes of the body as different muscles are utilized in movement, especially the ones that are not usually used. The challenge posed by the ball is to maintain balance. As one aims to get the proper balance, the alignment of the body parts is also improved.

2. Great Abs For people working out to achieve great abs, this ball can definitely target the abdominal areas. The abs and the back muscles are simultaneously moved as you work in your balance. Just imagine the good feeling of having a flat stomach area and you will definitely love this ball.

3. Muscle Strength and Endurance The stability ball can help in alleviating any back pain and preventing one in the future. As all the major muscle groups are exercised, the muscle tone, strength and endurance are also improved. Thus it gives the body flexibility, stability and resistance.

4. Core Stability This concerns the major muscles that helps stabilize and support all of the body movements. This is made up of back and the deep abdominal muscles. With the ball, no matter how 'deep' or 'into the core' these muscles are, they are still exercised. This is something only the stability ball can guarantee.

5. Stretching The ball is a good companion during stretching exercises. With this, you can easily move into and move out of different stretching positions.

6. Losing Weight Of course, with all the good benefits of using the ball, you will not miss out on the aspect of losing weight. With regular exercises and trainings done with the stability ball, a person can lose some unwanted pounds as the body is firmed.

Health is definitely your most important asset. So do your regular exercises and maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, have a happy and fun training with the stability ball.

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These are simple activities. Nothing grand about them, you merely stretched out a bit. However, if there are difficulties in doing such simple motions, then you have to stretch your limits. You already need a stretching program.

What Is Stretching?

Stretching is simply the act of extending to full length the body or simply a part of it. This activity involves straightening or stretching the structure or the limbs.

How Does One Do the Stretching?

Stretching is fairly easy. As mentioned in the introduction, it is involved in the normal activities. It can be done by any people, regardless of age.

However the extent of stretching and flexing differs. The muscles tighten as a person ages. The range of joint movements can be minimized. This can very well obstruct an on-the-go lifestyle. That is why as the person grows older, bending or flexing becomes more limited. This is why stretching regularly, as part of a routine is very important.

Simple stretches can be done everyday. It can be incorporated in the lifestyle and the daily activities. It does not require much of your time.

Stretching exercises can also be done while training. Actually, stretching is an essential part of any training or sport. It must be done first before anything else. Stretching the body and the limbs is a good preparation for a more rigorous activity.

Most athletes would do the sit and reach, wherein they position on the floor, extend their legs and reach the tip of their foot with the tip of their hand. Actually, most trainers actually require their athletes to really do the stretching before playing.

There is actually an ideal length of time in stretching. It is best to do it in 10 minutes. This will give the body enough opportunity to move and flex the muscles, thus preparing it for more complicated and strenuous movements.

Experts however would frown upon going way beyond 10 minutes. Stretching the exercise to 30 minutes or more will already wear out the body. This will not be favorable if one is preparing for a game.

What Are the Benefits of Stretching?

1. Increase the Range of Movement As one constantly do the stretching exercises, the length of the muscles and the tendons are also increased. This will help in increasing the range of your movement. Thus, the limbs and joints will be able to move, way before an injury can take place. You are definitely physically fit.

2. Increased Ability to Perform Skills When you have a wide range of movement, the more you will be able to do more things. For example, you can jump high without feeling any pain when you land back on the floor. This will also help you start a new sport or improve more if you are in one. Stretching in this aspect also allows you to have a more active lifestyle.

3. Injury Prevention One can prevent injury to joints, tendons and muscles with stretching. When the muscles and tendons are well-flexed, they are considered in good working order. This will help in a faster recovery and decreased soreness. The muscles of the body will be able to take more exhausting and rigorous movements with less probability of being injured.

4. Reduce Muscle Tension If the muscles are given their regular exercises and stretching, it is less likely that they will contract. This will definitely relieve you of any muscle pain or problems.

5. Enhance Energy Being able to move more will also give you more energy. Stretching will also help enhance your awareness, like knowing that you have a body that is capable of doing many things. As such, you are going to be more driven to move rather than sulk in the corner.

6. Reduces Cholesterol Research also shows that doing prolonged stretching exercises, like yoga, will help reduce the cholesterol in the body. This of course must be done with a healthy diet at hand. This could prevent and even reverse the hardening of the arteries, allowing you to avoid coronary diseases.

Incorporate stretching in your everyday lifestyle. It has benefits you can not say no to. It also does not require much. It can be your usual activities, bending and flexing every now and then. After all, your fitness is everything so do what it takes to keep the body healthy.

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What Is Resistance Training?

Resistance training involves activities that use weights, machines and even body weight to work out the muscles properly. It is also known as strength training or weight training. This can be very helpful in achieving a healthier body.

This kind of training is usually associated with athletes who have to build up their bodies. Most people would think that when resistance training is done, the body will grow bigger. Actually it will not. Resistance training is simply about increasing the strength of the body, not its size.

Actually, this can be practiced by anyone. It basically builds and tones the muscle to give the body a better look. This training program is even very much advisable to the elders. The usual training programs undergone by the elders are standing free-weights resistance or the moderate-intensity seated machine training.

How Does Resistance Training Work?

A resistance training program will include the use of various exercise equipment and machines like the bench press, dumbbell or barbell. When the equipment is used, the muscles of the body will be pitted against the weight. The cells of the body will then adapt to the extra weight. This will then result to hypertrophy or the enlarging and increasing of the nerve cells to help in the muscle contraction.

Before doing any resistance training, it will be best to consult first with the doctor. This goes especially for people who have medical conditions or are overweight. This kind of training is not something that you can explore on your own. You have to know the proper equipment for the needs of your body. The body must also be conditioned first before taking in the weights.

Resistance training can also be done without resorting to the equipment. Doing push-ups is one good example. You can do it just about anywhere where there is enough space for you to move. This time it is your own body weight that will be pitted against the muscles. So those who are a bit constrained in the budget can still do resistance trainings.

What Are the Benefits of Resistance Training?

1. Increase Bone Mineral Density Bones are constantly remodeling, meaning the tissues break down at the same time they build up. The peak of remodeling takes place during puberty. However, as a person ages, there may be problems with the bone mineral density as the remodeling may not be as active anymore. This is especially a problem to post-menopausal women.

Bone mineral density is usually supported by the hormones. To address the problem of not having the hormones to maintain the bone mineral density, physical activity is the next best option. Resistance training is one physical activity that can address this.

2. Increase Strength Strong bones and strong muscles will be developed as you undergo the resistance training program.

3. Increase the Range of Activities When your body is strong enough to carry some considerable weight, then definitely you will also be capable of doing more strenuous activities. You are less likely to be lazy and you can live a more active lifestyle.

4. Reduce the Body Fat Pitting the weights on your muscle will definitely give it the body the exercise it needs and get rid of the undesirable fats. Thus expect the tone of the body to improve. Even more, expect the body to look better, to be leaner.

5. Improve State of the Elders For the elderly, undergoing a resistance training program will help improve their health and decrease the risks brought about by the age. They can be more independent, without needing to rely on other people for doing simple things. Being able to do so will also decrease the risk of injuries in the elders

6. Improve Heart Condition Regularly doing resistance training can result to a lowered heart rate and lowered blood pressure, especially after exercise. The risk of heart diseases is reduced to a considerable extent.

This kind of training however must be properly done. It requires commitment and consistency. It will have to be done in a regular basis, following a schedule that the doctor or the physical trainer would recommend. If done incorrectly, the benefits of the program may not be enjoyed and it can even result the injury.

The key here is to simply take your time. Do things one step at a time correctly. As your body condition improves, then move on to more challenging tasks. The strength of the body and its overall look are at stake in the resistance training. So you better be sure to do it properly.

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Pilates started as a way of rehabilitating athletes and dancers but is now used by millions of people across the globe because it is one of the safest forms of exercise.

Forget going for a run, pounding on pavement with the potential risk of getting shin splints, a knee injury or worse, falling and getting an even more severe injury. Pilates is one of the safest exercise systems in existence. The only equipment used is a floor mat. But for more advanced pilates exercise enthusiasts, other equipment can be added to simple routines. Nevertheless, once you begin this solid workout regimen, you will begin to notice healthy improvements in your body.

Regardless of whether you are 20 or 60 years of age, Pilates can work for anyone – male or female, old or young. No matter what condition you're in, the health and fitness benefits are endless. Pilates improves flexibility, core strength and range of motion. It is also known to help alleviate chronic health ailments as well as fight back pain.

But the best part about Pilates is it's fun!

It's an exercise that bonds the mind and body allowing them to work together to establish balance. But the biggest benefit is Pilates improves overall body alignment, making it less prone to injury.

Here are some more benefits of Pilates:

* Improves breathing * Corrects spinal and pelvic alignment through the concentration of slow, flowing, smooth movements with maximum power. * Builds long, lean muscles that are less prone to injury, while building strength – without the bulk. * Improves flexibility and range of motion. * Improves back and abdominal strength. * Creates balance between muscles – as weak muscles become stronger and the strong muscles also gain more strength never over training or under training any particular muscle group. This balance makes it easier to enjoy daily activities with less risk of injury. Pilates allows you to retrain your body to move in smoother safer, more efficient patterns of motion, which is essential in optimal performance and overall health. * There is no pounding or bouncing in Pilates. It is the safest form of exercise. This is why it began as a rehabilitation exercise system for sports athletes and dancers. It is an intense exercise system working all muscle groups but still sustaining and improving overall balance. If you are looking for a fitness routine that's safe and easy to do – and that doesn't involve a lot of heavy equipment, Pilates is an excellent choice. But best of all, with the popularity of this system, it can be performed in the comfort of your own home! Many videos and DVD's are available for rent at your local video store as well as for sale at your local supermarket. Need the right exercise system? Pilates may be just the right thing for you. Fun, easy and relaxing exercise that strengthens and restores flexibility… Doesn't get much better than this!

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First and foremost, online fitness training is convenient–it is accessible from your home or office at any time of day. In addition, online workouts are interactive and dynamic. If you need guidance or support, you can email the fitness program, and in most cases, receive an immediate answer to your question. Various other tools to enhance your learning and ensure your success are also available at the click of a mouse such as video demonstrations, exercise instructions, live chats and more.

According to Gary Mathews of http://www.criticalbench.com, "Losing weight in the confines of your own home at your computer is not only possible, it's a reality. What I mean is that (sic) you can use the advice that's given to you through an online fitness consultation to pursue a more productive way of burning off undesired fat and reaching your fitness goals."

Online fitness training is available at a small percentage of the cost of a personal trainer, making it an affordable alternative for a greater number of people. Further, a personal trainer can typically only offer fitness advice related to his or her individual field of expertise whereas online fitness programs offer the knowledge of numerous highly qualified professionals. An online program can also provide nutrition advice, information on injury prevention and rehabilitation, resources for answers to medical questions, motivational help and more. In addition, online fitness programs are frequently updated, and therefore, provide the latest research and information in the fitness industry.

If you are new to fitness, it is oftentimes difficult to know where to begin, and designing your own fitness program can be very frustrating and time consuming. An online personal trainer can help you eliminate unnecessary research and confusion by teaching you the most enjoyable method for achieving the exact results you want. And the more customized and enjoyable your fitness program, the more likely you will be to stick with it and enjoy a healthier lifestyle in the long term.

Note: Always consult with a professional health care advisor before beginning any physical fitness program.

If you have questions or need further information, please contact Slimtree at contact@slimtree.com.

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This type of training is ideal for someone who doesn't have the income for a personal trainer or cannot commit to a scheduled session. What makes losing weight in cyberspace so appealing? CONVENIENCE! There are many people who would like to join a health club but do not have access to one due to location or simply the time to get to the gym. This is where online fitness training is a win-win situation because it provides an effective way to receive fitness advice and guidance from a fitness expert.

You will find similar programs offered on the internet for this service. A certified personal trainer will design an online training program specifically for you based on your individual profile. They will consider your age, exercise and medical history, fitness level and goals, available equipment and schedule availability. Workouts are e-mailed to you on a weekly bases and many services offer weekly encouragement e-mails and work-out tips. Each workout should include an animated demonstration and a detailed written instruction, just incase you have no idea how to safely perform a flat-bench dumbbell flye for your chest or a reverse trunk twist for your abs. Some also offer customized diet programs with access to meal plans.

Online training is also becoming very popular with preteens seeking a competitive edge in sports performance. Weather a young athlete is looking to increase his speed and endurance for soccer, needs a stronger arm for their overhand tennis swing or more leg power for football, online training can offer personalized training programs to help them achieve their goal. Parents who are concerned with cutbacks in school physical education classes are also taking an interest in online training to fight against the rising percent of obesity among children.

Online training is an effective, safe and convenient way to lose weight, tone your body and improve your health in the privacy of your own home. If you have trouble staying motivated, knowing what to do or just want a little extra help, this is a viable option available to you. But just like other workout programs, you have to follow the workout schedule and eat nutritious meals to reach your goals. But at least with online training you can train when and where it is convenient for you. In the comfort of your own home!

If you would like to learn more about online training, visit my website www.fitnessinhometraining.com and take the first step towards a heathier you!

Gina is an ISSA certified personal trainer. She works with her clients in their own homes and offers online fitness training. She writes a weekly fitness article for her local newspaper. Her passion is fitness and helping others reach their fitness goals. She participates in dualthons and 5K races all the way to marathons.

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