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The Hayward Fault: Berkeley’s ‘Tectonic Time Bomb’

Published

5 years ago

September 8, 2020

If you live in Berkeley, you’re probably aware that the UC Berkeley campus is built over the Hayward Fault, the most dangerous earthquake fault in the bay area. The fault is not only at risk of causing an earthquake, also known as “coseismic slip,” but shows its movement through aseismic creep, a very slow shifting of plates resulting in structural damage over a long period of time. The last earthquake on this fault was in 1868, one of the most damaging earthquakes in history. Seismologists predict this fault ruptures roughly every 150 years, meaning the bay is due for a shake in the very near future.

UC Berkeley’s Seismic Action Plan for Facilities Enhancement and Renewal is a campus-wide initiative working since 1997 to retrofit campus buildings that pose risks to the community when faced with an inevitable earthquake. Around 70% of the current buildings on campus have been rated seismically efficient due to construction in the past few decades, and the program has halved the life safety risks to faculty and students. However, few still remain in everyday use despite being deemed poorly constructed.

Tolman Hall, formerly housing the Department of Psychology and Graduate School of Education, was closed to students in 2011 due to a “poor” seismic rating, and permanently evacuated in summer 2018. The demolition process began with a plan to replace the building approved in 2014, and was scheduled for demolition in late 2018, but the massive structure still eerily remained for several months thereafter, a ghost town of sorts compared to the rest of campus.

“My hope is every building on campus will not kill people, but that does not mean every building on campus will be usable again after the next big earthquake,” Earth and Planetary Science Professor Roland Burgmann said.

Reflecting on his extensive research for the Berkeley Seismology Lab on the Hayward Fault’s behavior, in addition to studies of faults worldwide, Burgmann explained that the fault’s creep is steady but not enough to relieve the building pressure that will inevitably cause a major earthquake. His research team utilizes global positioning measurements and satellite technology to identify which parts of the fault deep below the surface have accrued the most tension.

“The key message clearly is that it’s the most urban hazardous fault we know. There’s probably no fault in the world that has as many people, as many hospitals, and universities along its whole extent,” Burgmann said. “It is a fault that in terms of its hazard, from our forecasting estimates, is especially likely to cause one of the next big earthquakes.”

Professor Horst Rademacher teaches the lower division course “Earthquakes in Your Backyard” and has done prominent research regarding seismology worldwide. According to his published walking tour of the Hayward Fault, a tour he also gives to the students in his course, California Memorial Stadium was completely retrofitted in 2010. Although it has only been a decade since this retrofit, slight damage from the fault’s creeping can be observed in the stadium, such as through cracks in the stairwell on the north side of the stadium.

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of this massive renovation was updating the most seismically-conscious part of the stadium that was constructed at its birth in the early 1920s; the exterior wall of the stadium was split in half. John Galen Howard, the designer of the stadium in the twenties, was aware of the fault’s location, and split the stadium into two distinct halves that were meant to move separately from each other along the fault line in the case of an earthquake. The retrofits just a decade ago added a flexible sealant to this expansion joint to maintain this freedom of movement, though its effectiveness has never been tested in a true quake. Another effect of the fault’s creep is the displacement of Strawberry Creek, which runs through campus; the plate movement causes the stream to run along the fault when the water reaches it, and resume its movement slightly displaced after crossing the fault.

Hearst Memorial Mining Building was one of the most dangerously constructed buildings on campus, and underwent an immense seismic retrofit between 1998 and 2003. In the early 20th century, Berkeley mining students dug a 200-foot-long mining tunnel (some of which still remains today), which was coined the “Lawson Adit” after Berkeley Geologist and former Dean of the College of Mining Andrew Lawson. While some of the adit has deteriorated and collapsed in the last century, and it has been closed to the public after being deemed unsafe, the UC Berkeley seismology lab uses the mining tunnel to monitor seismic activity to this day.

The Haywired Scenario is a study of the potential hazards and effects of this predicted 7.0 earthquake on the Hayward Fault. Various research groups and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) discuss seismic hazards and how to minimize damage when this slip occurs. According to USGS, the earthquake is expected to be similar in size to the 1868 earthquake, which was around magnitude 6.5, but will have a far longer rupture length. This means the earthquake would travel beyond its epicenter south of Santa Rosa to below Oakland, creating intensive shaking south towards San Jose. In addition to causing extreme destruction due to shaking, earthquakes historically cause the most damage, deaths, and property loss from their resulting fires.

Although no one can predict earthquakes, Burgmann explained that his work in earthquake forecasting examines which parts of the fault are most susceptible to slip, information researchers use to narrow down a window of when the big one might strike.

“If we could just understand it, shouldn’t we be able to predict the earthquake?” Burgmann said. “The problem is, in every single case, we only recognize unusual things happening before an earthquake once the earthquake has already happened.”

While much of the bay area’s infrastructure has been retrofitted since 1868 to withstand even the largest quakes, there is significantly more infrastructure, public transportation, and major road bridges that pose a higher hazard to the community. Additionally, the population of the area has spiked from around 260,000 to 7.15 million individuals. Though there is no way to avoid a potentially devastating earthquake on the Hayward Fault in the future, the Berkeley community can hopefully find comfort in knowing that the campus is seismically efficient overall, due to millions of dollars of investments and years of construction. However, seismologists cannot predict when an earthquake will strike, so the Hayward Fault remains an elusive enemy in Berkeley, creeping along until a final rupture.

“There’s still a lot of things we can and need to learn about earthquakes and faults, so even if that long term question of can we predict earthquakes will never really be accessible, I think there are important things we still need to discover,” Burgmann said. “There’s definitely lots more we can do.”

HEALTH

How I Fixed My Back Pain Without Visiting a Chiropractor — The Driving Upgrade I Didn’t Expect

Published

5 days ago

December 8, 2025

Maha Saeed

For months, I kept telling myself the same lie when my back started hurting:

“It’s just stress.”
“I slept wrong.”
“It’ll go away on its own.”

But the truth was harder to accept.

My back pain didn’t come from the gym.
It didn’t come from sleeping wrong.
It didn’t come from bad posture at my desk.

It came from something I never expected:
Driving.

Not once did it cross my mind that the thing I did every single day — sometimes for hours — could be the reason my lower back felt like it was tightening more and more each week.

But one particular morning finally revealed the truth.

1. The Morning Everything Hit Me at Once

I woke up feeling okay.
Nothing unusual.

I got ready, grabbed my coffee, and headed out to my car like I always do. The moment I sat down and leaned back into the seat… something pinched. Not sharp, but deep — like a knot that had been sitting there waiting to say “good morning.”

By the time I reached the freeway, that little pinch grew into a stiff ache.
By the time I parked at work, I had to stretch just to stand up straight.

I remember thinking:

“Why does a 30-minute drive hurt more than lifting weights?”

That’s when I realized my back wasn’t “randomly” bothering me.
It was happening every day — right after driving.

And that small pattern changed everything.

2. I Tried Everything Except the One Thing That Actually Mattered

Like most people who don’t want to visit a chiropractor right away, I tried:

Heating pads
Stretching
Lower back exercises
Massage guns
Rolling on a foam roller
Swapping yoga with Pilates
Strengthening my core

Some of it helped… but only temporarily.

It didn’t fix the root problem.

The pain always returned — especially after long drives.
And that’s when my frustration turned into a mission:
I needed to figure out exactly what was causing this.

3. The Shocking Discovery: My Car Seat Was the Problem

I came across an article talking about how standard car seats are designed for safety and style — but not for ergonomics.

Then I read this sentence and felt strangely attacked:

“Most car seats flatten your spine and force you into a posture that causes lower back compression.”

It explained everything I was feeling:

The tightness
The pressure
The aching
The stiffness
The fatigue after even short trips

I started paying attention, and sure enough — halfway into a drive, my posture would collapse. My hips would tilt, my lower back would round, and all the pressure would fall right on the same painful spot.

I wasn’t ruining my back at the gym.
I was ruining it in my car.

4. The Unexpected Upgrade That Actually Fixed It

I didn’t want to spend hundreds on chiropractor sessions.
I didn’t want injections, adjustments, or medical bills.

So I searched for a simple, practical fix — something that could support my back while I was driving instead of making the problem worse.

That’s when I stumbled across the idea of using a car seat cushion.

I wasn’t convinced at first.
It sounded too easy.
Too small.
Too basic.

But the more I researched, the more I realized cushions are specifically designed to:

Improve posture
Correct pelvic tilt
Reduce pressure on the spine
Support the natural “S” shape of the back
Prevent tailbone compression
Help you sit properly without effort

It made sense.

My seat wasn’t the problem —
the lack of support was.

So I bought a cushion from a brand focused on practical driving comfort — AlexCar, which I kept seeing recommended for everyday ergonomic upgrades.

That small decision changed everything.

5. The First Drive With a Cushion Felt Like a Different Car

On the day it arrived, I opened the package, tossed the cushion on my seat, and drove to grab lunch.

And I swear, within minutes, I felt the difference.

✔ My hips stayed aligned

I didn’t slide into bad posture.

✔ My lower back felt supported

The pressure I usually felt disappeared.

✔ I wasn’t shifting around

For once, I wasn’t chasing a comfortable position.

✔ My tailbone wasn’t compressed

That deep ache I usually felt? Completely gone.

I remember parking, stepping out, and thinking:

“Is this what comfortable driving feels like?”

It didn’t fix my back instantly — nothing does — but it stopped the cause of the pain, and that’s what mattered most.

6. Small Change, Huge Results: How My Back Started Healing Naturally

Over the next week, something incredible happened.

The pain started fading.
The stiffness loosened up.
The pressure I felt after long drives disappeared.
Even standing and walking felt easier.

And I wasn’t doing anything dramatic —
I was just giving my spine the support it needed every time I sat in the car.

The more consistent I was, the faster my body healed.

The turning point came during a 90-minute drive one Sunday. Normally that would’ve left me sore for hours. Instead, when I arrived, I stood up and felt…

Nothing. No pain. No stiffness. No pressure.

That’s when I knew the real enemy wasn’t my back —
It was the seat I had been sitting on for years.

7. Why This Simple Fix Works Better Than You Think

A car seat cushion helps because it does what your car seat doesn’t:

✔ It restores proper posture

Your spine stays in a natural curve instead of collapsing forward.

✔ It reduces strain on your lower back

Support = less compression on your discs.

✔ It keeps your hips level

No more tilting that twists your lower spine.

✔ It improves blood flow

Your legs don’t go numb or heavy.

✔ It eliminates slouching

Your core stays relaxed, not overworked.

Driving no longer felt like a battle between me and my seat.

It felt… effortless.

8. The Best Part? I Didn’t Need a Chiropractor After All

I still believe chiropractors are helpful — but I didn’t need one.
My pain wasn’t coming from an injury or medical condition.

It was coming from bad sitting support.

Once that changed, everything changed:

No more morning stiffness
No more stretching the moment I step out
No more pain halfway through a commute
No more dreading long drives

I actually enjoy driving again.

That’s something I didn’t expect a small upgrade to fix.

Final Thoughts: The Fix You Never Realized You Needed

Back pain doesn’t start with one big moment.
It starts with tiny habits — the way you sit, the pressure you ignore, the discomfort you get used to.

And for many of us, the root cause is sitting in a position our bodies were never designed for.

A supportive car seat cushion won’t replace medical treatment if you truly need it —
but for everyday drivers dealing with chronic discomfort?

It might be the one upgrade that changes everything.

It certainly was for me.

I didn’t need injections.
I didn’t need adjustments.
I didn’t need weekly appointments.

I just needed the right support — something simple, something smart, something I never realized I was missing.

And now?

My back feels better than it has in years.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Why You Should Explore All Fitness Specialties Before Choosing Your Path

Published

3 weeks ago

November 24, 2025

Sting Fellows

Introduction
The fitness industry offers countless opportunities, from strength and conditioning to yoga, MMA, and sport-specific training. While many new professionals may feel pressured to choose a single path quickly, exploring all available specialties first can help you make an informed decision. Understanding the variety of certifications and career options allows you to align your skills and passions with the best opportunities. By exploring before committing, you set yourself up for long-term success and satisfaction in your fitness career.

Benefits of Exploring Multiple Specialties
Taking time to explore different areas of fitness provides several advantages:

Helps identify your true interests and strengths
Broadens your knowledge of training techniques and approaches
Increases versatility for working with diverse clients
Opens up opportunities for higher-paying or niche roles

A broad perspective ensures you make choices that match both your passion and your professional goals.

The Role of a Fitness Specialist
Fitness specialists have the skills to focus on specific client needs and training goals. Their responsibilities include:

Designing programs that target performance, flexibility, or strength
Monitoring client progress and adjusting plans accordingly
Teaching safe techniques to prevent injury
Educating clients on nutrition, recovery, and wellness

Specialists provide more value than general trainers by offering expertise tailored to the needs of their clients.

Why Certification Matters
Certification demonstrates expertise and builds credibility. By exploring various certifications, you can:

Gain recognition as a qualified professional
Learn best practices for training, assessment, and safety
Access opportunities in gyms, wellness centers, or private coaching
Build confidence in designing effective programs for different populations

Certification programs cover anatomy, exercise science, client assessment, program design, and specialty techniques, preparing you for a successful career.

Key Skills Needed in Fitness Specialties
Regardless of the specialty you choose, certain skills are essential:

Communication to instruct and motivate clients effectively
Observation and analytical skills to track progress and correct techniques
Knowledge of injury prevention and safe training methods
Flexibility to adapt programs for varying client levels and goals

These skills ensure you provide safe, results-driven, and personalized programs.

Steps to Explore Fitness Specialties
To make the most informed decision about your fitness career:

Research the range of available certifications and specialties
Attend workshops, seminars, or training sessions to gain hands-on experience
Evaluate your personal interests and strengths
Consult professionals in different fields to learn about their experiences

This approach helps you discover the path that fits your skills, interests, and long-term goals.

Impact on Clients and Career
Specialized training allows professionals to create measurable results for clients. Many clients struggle with plateaus, ineffective programs, or lack of guidance. A knowledgeable specialist provides:

Customized programs for strength, endurance, flexibility, or sport-specific skills
Support and motivation to maintain consistency
Guidance to prevent injuries and improve performance

Helping clients reach their goals not only builds trust but also enhances your reputation and career prospects.

Continuing Education and Growth
Fitness is an evolving industry. To remain relevant and effective, specialists should:

Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars
Stay updated on the latest research and techniques
Network with peers and join professional organizations
Explore additional certifications to expand expertise and versatility

Ongoing learning ensures you remain competitive, knowledgeable, and valuable to clients and employers.

Conclusion
Exploring https://www.americansportandfitness.com/collections/fitness-certifications before choosing your path gives you a well-rounded understanding of your options. Specialization enhances your credibility, effectiveness, and career potential. By discovering the areas that match your passion and strengths, you can create a fulfilling and successful fitness career. Whether your interests lie in strength training, MMA, yoga, or sport-specific coaching, exploring first ensures you make a choice that aligns with your long-term goals.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Tokyo-Tiger I Am Speed Work Shirt SpeedTiger – 2025 Cyber Monday Sale

Published

3 weeks ago

November 20, 2025

Sting Fellows

Cyber Monday 2025 is gearing up to be a must-watch event for fans of bold Japanese-inspired fashion. One of the most anticipated releases this year is the Tokyo-Tiger I Am Speed Work Shirt SpeedTiger, a dynamic and stylish piece designed for comfort, versatility, and standout aesthetics. Perfect for layering over Japanese t shirts or pairing with playful ugly cardigan sweaters, this work shirt brings together high-quality craftsmanship and unique, attention-grabbing design. Whether you’re hitting the streets, attending casual meet-ups, or expressing your personal style, the SpeedTiger Work Shirt promises to make a statement this holiday season.

Inspired by Speed and Japanese Streetwear

The I Am Speed Work Shirt takes inspiration from Japan’s energetic street culture and the thrill of movement, incorporating bold graphics and sleek design elements that exude dynamism and personality. For fans of Japanese t shirts, this work shirt provides the perfect layering piece, while combining it with ugly cardigan sweaters introduces a quirky, textured look that adds depth and individuality. With its vibrant imagery and unique Tokyo-Tiger branding, the shirt is a versatile addition for anyone looking to showcase creativity and urban style in one bold package.

Premium Quality and Comfortable Fit

Crafted from a durable cotton blend, the SpeedTiger Work Shirt prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style. Its breathable fabric ensures all-day wearability, while the tailored yet relaxed fit allows natural movement and flexibility. The classic button-down construction, reinforced stitching, and structured collar make it suitable for multiple occasions, from casual streetwear to creative office environments. Layering over Japanese t shirts or under ugly cardigan sweaters provides both warmth and visual interest, making the shirt adaptable to changing weather and seasonal style preferences.

Cyber Monday 2025: Special Deals

Cyber Monday 2025 offers shoppers an excellent chance to snag the Tokyo-Tiger I Am Speed Work Shirt SpeedTiger at exclusive prices. Many retailers are planning limited-time discounts, early-access pre-sales, and bundle deals that may include complementary Japanese t shirts or eccentric ugly cardigan sweaters. These promotions make it easier for fashion enthusiasts to secure this highly sought-after work shirt while expanding their wardrobe with versatile, culturally inspired pieces. Given its unique design and popularity, acting early is essential to avoid missing out on this standout item.

Styling Tips: Layering and Playful Contrasts

The SpeedTiger Work Shirt is ideal for experimenting with textures and layering. Wear it open over Japanese t shirts for a casual, street-ready vibe, or under ugly cardigan sweaters to create playful contrasts that highlight the shirt’s bold graphics. Neutral bottoms such as jeans, chinos, or joggers allow the vibrant design to remain the focal point. Accessories like sleek sneakers, simple hats, or understated jewelry can elevate your outfit while maintaining balance. This work shirt is perfect for those who enjoy mixing textures, patterns, and cultural-inspired designs in their everyday fashion.

Trend Spotlight: Japanese-Inspired Streetwear

Japanese streetwear continues to influence global fashion with its bold visuals, functional design, and creative flair. The I Am Speed Work Shirt embodies these principles, offering a statement-making piece that blends durability with eye-catching aesthetics. Fans of Japanese t shirts will find it an excellent complement to casual wardrobes, while layering it with ugly cardigan sweaters adds a fun, unexpected twist. Its energetic design makes it a perfect choice for anyone seeking to express individuality, creativity, and style in a contemporary urban setting.

Everyday Versatility

Despite its striking graphics, the SpeedTiger Work Shirt is versatile for everyday wear. Its breathable cotton blend and relaxed fit make it ideal for commuting, social outings, or casual creative environments. The button-down style allows for flexible wearing options: fully buttoned, open over Japanese t shirts, or tucked in for a more polished look. Layering with ugly cardigan sweaters adds warmth and dimension, making it adaptable to various climates, seasons, and personal style preferences.

How to Secure Your Work Shirt

To take advantage of Cyber Monday 2025 deals, it’s important to plan ahead. Monitor retailer announcements for pre-sales, exclusive bundles, and limited-time offers that may include Japanese t shirts or quirky ugly cardigan sweaters. Due to limited stock and high demand, acting early ensures you can secure the Tokyo-Tiger I Am Speed Work Shirt SpeedTiger before it sells out.

Final Thoughts: A Statement Piece for Bold Fashion Lovers

The Tokyo-Tiger I Am Speed Work Shirt SpeedTiger is more than just a work shirt—it’s a vibrant, culturally inspired statement piece. With Cyber Monday 2025 approaching, it provides an excellent opportunity to add a bold, versatile, and stylish item to your wardrobe. Whether layered over Japanese t shirts or paired with eccentric ugly cardigan sweaters, it offers endless possibilities for creative styling. For those seeking comfort, individuality, and urban flair, the SpeedTiger Work Shirt is a must-have for this holiday season.