Workouts That Set You Free

Just as your eyes open to the new day, it happens. Thoughts of everything you’d like to do flood your mind. Exercise? You begin to rationalize. Skipping one day won’t matter. I don’t have time anyway. Stop! You won’t believe how easy it is to fit exercise into your day. Turn those negative thoughts into positive ones.

When your body is your own gym, you are free to exercise anytime, anywhere. And did you know that a few short workouts during the day charge your metabolism, burning calories like a furnace? In fact, flexible workouts throughout the day tend to burn more calories than if you work out at one specific time.

Whether you’re home during the week or simply stuck indoors on a weekend, mundane tasks are perfect opportunities to tone up those arms, legs, and buns. For example, throw in a load of laundry. While you’re waiting for the water to fill up, try this: With feet shoulder-width apart, stretch out your arms as if you’re telling a fish story (fingers extended…that fish was how long?) Now, flex your arms toward each other slowly with tension, like you’re resisting against an invisible force, and show how short that fish really was. Your hands and arms may shake as you resist back to the starting position. Remember to breathe deeply, keep your tummy tight and shoulders relaxed. Perform 8 to 10 of these chest contractions. Shake it out, you’re done!

Creative nooks and crannies are everywhere. You know that little “speaker” button on the telephone? It just became your new best friend. With both hands free, YOU are free to shape that body. Brushing your teeth is a great time to do squats (make sure to extend your bottom out and don’t let your knees drop past your toes!) And how about TV time? The commercials alone give use close to four minutes to take on an exercise. The creative opportunities are endless.

Working out should never feel like a chore. With a little creativity, you can keep your metabolism charged and your body sculpted. When the day is over, you’ll feel stronger and more energized, not guilty, defeated or weary.

Now, let your creative juices flow, and take on the day incorporating exercises into your daily lifestyle. nn