Study: Reality TV Stars Are Most Narcissistic

A new study discussed in Tuesday's Los Angeles Times states that celebrities are more likely than the general population to be narcissistic. The study was conducted by Dr. Drew Pinsky (of "Loveline" fame) and he interviewed more than 200 celebrities.

According to the study:

"The average Narcissism Personality Inventory score of Americans — as demonstrated in a previous study — is 15.3 out of a possible 40. Celebrities averaged 17.8. Contrary to what occurs in the general population, women celebrities, across the board, were more narcissistic than males (19.26 versus 17.27). Musicians — who have the highest skill level — are the least narcissistic celebrity group, while reality television stars — the least talented or skilled group — are the most narcissistic."

Narcissism (or, self love) is considered part of a healthy psyche, in moderate doses. The term stems from Greek mythology. Narcissus was a handsome Greek youth who rejected the advances of a nymph. As punishment, the gods sentenced him to fall in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. Ultimately unable to "consummate" his love, Narcissus eventually changed into a flower, the narcissus, which bears his name.

Are Elliptical Machines Better For Beginners?

Hey Sam. Are elliptical machine a "preferred" way to exercise, or are they better for those getting started? Said another way, would you rather a more advanced exerciser use another piece of equipment for their CV exercise? Thanks, John

Hey John. Using an elliptical machines is an excellent form of non-weight bearing exercise for people who cannot perform more "traditional" forms of cardio, such as step aerobics, running, cardio kickboxing, and the like. If you have joint or knee problems, then the elliptical machines provide an excellent alternative to these exercises.

If you don't have problems with your knees, joints, or back and want to burn more calories, you'll burn more calories from an intense run than you would on the elliptical trainer. Remember, as with any exercise, the greater the INTENSITY, the more calories you will burn. You are the best judge of your abilities, but in general you should be exercising at about 60% of your maximum heart rate to get a cardiovascular benefit. You can determine your maximum heart rate by starting with the number 220 and subtracting your age.

So, in a word—yes—elliptical machines are probably better suited to beginners who want to start getting some cardiovascular activity without the impact on their knees and other joints.

I hope that helps. Let me know how it goes! --Sam

I've Got Shin Splints from Sprinting: What Am I Doing Wrong?

Hey Sam, I recently started sprinting in the mornings. But today, after sprinting, I noticed I have slight shin splints today. Is that normal? Did I not stretch enough before and after? As a beginner sprinter, should I limit sprinting to just once or twice a week to start? I don't want to get an injury and halt my exercise so your advice is HUGELY appreciated. --Michelle

Hey Michelle. Shin splints are usually a sign of too much weight striking the shin bone, and can be aggravated by improper footwear. The first thing I'd check out are your shoes: Are they shoes designed specifically for running, and when was the last time you had them replaced. In general, running shoes should be replaced every 4 months. A common mistake is that people judge whether to replace their shoes based on the condition of the soles. This is not a good parameter. A better test is this: if you can bend your shoe lengthwise, they need to go.

It also sounds like you may have "jumped" into sprinting without a lot of practice. As a former sprinter, I can tell you the importance of building your speedwork gradually. When you start a sprint lap, you need to gradually accelerate into your "top/sprint" speed and then gradually deccelerate as you come out of the sprint. Don't enter into sprint laps "cold."

There are also some stretches which may help your shin splint situation. The easiest one is with a buddy. In a seated position, legs extended in front of you, have your buddy gently press down on your foot while holding your heel with their other hand. Hold each stretch for at least 15 seconds.

Whether or not you should continue to sprint is a good question. In general it's always a good idea to listen to your body. Pain is generally a sign that something is wrong, so I think it's probably a good idea for you to lay off the sprints for a little while while your shin splits go away. Tend to the shins as you would any other inflamed area, with the RICE technique (REST, ICE, COMPRESSION, ELEVATION). Stretch them often and examine your shoe situation. Finally, remember to increase your speedwork gradually following the recommendations I've laid out here.

I hope this helps. Happy sprinting! --Sam

I Can't Lose the Last 10 Pounds

I'm a 24-year-old vegetarian and in pretty good shape, but I can't lose the last 10-15 pounds. I just can't do it. I've been doing my current regimen for about 2 years. Can you give me any advice on how to do this?

It sounds like you may have become accustomed to your current training regimen. If you stick with the same thing for a long period of time, your body becomes more efficient at dealing with the stress. So, experts advise that you "mix up" your training every 4-6 weeks. This is called periodization. This may help you burn some extra calories and also teach you some new exercises in the process.

Should I Diet First Before Starting An Exercise Program?

I'm just starting a cardiovascular exercise program and am about 140 pounds overweight. Should I start this exercise program now, or should I try dieting and wait to lose some of the weight first, and then start the program? I'm having difficulty keeping up in the classes and the movements seem really difficult.

You'll lose weight more rapidly if you combine calorie restriction with exercise rather than just restricting calories alone. If you're having trouble with the classes, you should try non-weight bearing activities, such as bicycling on a stationary bike, or swimming, or working on an elliptical machine which will protect your joints, ankles and wrists while you begin to lose the weight.