Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Workout Wednesday

Have you been working out this week? Tell us all about it!

If you are like me, you probably spend a few hours each day either sitting watching TV, sitting at the computer, or doing some other sitting activity. These are a few tips from e-how on some simple exercises that you can do while sitting.

Step 1
Practice good posture. This, alone, is one of the best exercises you can do for your body. By keeping your spine as straight as possible, it puts less pressure where pressure doesn't belong.

Step 2
Stretch. Make sure to regularly stretch your muscles. By stretching your calves out, you increase blood flow, reduce the chances of blood clots and increase the strength of your muscles. Stretch your neck by moving it slowly forward and backward and side to side. Stretch your back by stretching your arms out wide and then lean back, pulling your arms back.

Step 3
Roll your wrists. This will help reduce chances of carpel tunnel syndrome and general stiffening incurred from arthritis.

Step 4
Contract your stomach muscles. Tighten them up, hold them for a few seconds and release. Do this five or more times.

Step 5
Exercise your knees. Place a rubber ball behind your knee and squeeze it eight to 12 times. Switch knees and repeat.

Step 6
Do leg lifts. Lift your legs using the balls of your feet. Repeat this as many times necessary to make your legs feel a little tired.

Step 7
Lift weights. Using one- to three-pound weights, lift them with your arms. Do lifts to work your biceps and triceps. Lift the weights above your head.

Step 8
Move. While working, talking on the phone or typing, move your body. This could mean bouncing or swinging your foot while sitting. Switch your weight in your chair. Do things to increase your movement while sitting.

3 comments:

  1. So far so good this week. I had a great work-out yesterday. Nathan was nice enough to stay outside with Dallin and the other two while Dallin practiced soccer at the Y and I went in and did a little cardio and strength training. Thanks Nathan!

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  2. Not so good, here, but improving! Jon & I just started a new schedule which involves waking up at 5:30am every day. While he studies for the GMAT, I plan to do some cardio. So, I have now set aside time for it... that's a step in the right direction. =)

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  3. I haven't given up yet. I wasn't able to walk without a cain until Tuesday but since then I have gradually been adding a few steps. I got 7000 yesterday which was a little much but I am so looking forward to walking and getting to Dig in the Dirt...my favorite exercise.

    Good plan Stacy. Way to go Kat!!!! I really like today's blog and tried most of them out. Sounds like a plan that would be really easy to follow and add. Thanks

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