Exercise Inspiration for a Monday

Is your exercise routine in a rut? 

I've just added TRX training as a workout option.  This training method uses a suspension trainer of adjustable straps and the weight of your body to develop strength, balance,  flexibility and core stability simultaneously.  There are over 100 exercises you can perform with this device.  

We've got a TRX in our home gym but I'm taking classes to learn how to use it on my own. It is a real challenge to be stable while part of your body is suspended.  It helps develop your core strength no matter what exercise you are doing or muscle group you are working.  

Stil not motivated?

Click here for the Top 100 WORKOUT SONGS OF THE '90s

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Anyone can go for a walk!!

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Happy Monday

Pure Barre: Exercise

I've tried a new way to exercise that avoids running, jumping, bouncing, and punching.

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Barre exercise is a total body workout that uses small isometric movements to tone, and strengthen muscles, burn fat, increase flexibility.  There is a quick flow to the movements that increases your heart rate.

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No ballet experience needs for barre exercise as the barre is just a "prop" to hold onto for a deeper stretch.  Other equipment is a mat, tubing, a small ball and some 1-3 lb. weights.  The classes are taught in a mirrored studio to energetic music by capable instructors who challenge, encourage and kindly correct your movements.  

My experience has been with Pure Barre.  There are many other "brands" of barre exercise technique.  This exercise technique can be as intense as you choose to make it. It is all about tucking and squeezing your abs and other muscles.  The squeezing or contracting of the muscles results in tiny movements.  Repetitions of these contractions will leave you shaking if you are giving it your all.  The technique uses all of your muscle groups.  You leave the studio feeling tired but standing taller and feeling longer.  

Here is a link to Pure Barre. See if there is a studio near you.  Perhaps your gym offers barre classes or there may be other kinds of barre studios nearby.  Give this workout a try!

Morning Swim

It took a knee injury to remind me of my love of swimming.  

About two months ago my knee started bothering me...a repetitive use injury from running. I tried alternative exercise but my knee wasn't getting better.  Hubby suggested I take to the water.  Not only is my knee better but I'm loving exercising in the water and outside.  I've got a pool in the 'hood that is just steps away from my house.  If I get to the pool early, I've got it to myself.  Love the peacefulness.  Therapy for the body and soul.  

Wishing you a calm start to your week.

Personal Spring Cleaning: Get Fit

After a winter of being indoors, I can't wait for Spring to be outside for some exercise.

If you haven't been working out all winter, now is a perfect time to get started.

Is running your passion?  I used to run everyday.  My goal was the Boston Marathon which I ran 5 years ago.  I no longer run to compete, just for fun and fresh air.

Yeah, that's me.  Take by a friend on my iphone. 

My new passion is kickboxing.  I try to get aerobic exercise 4 to 5 times a week.

Spinning classes or outdoor biking is great aerobic exercise.

Weight training is important for strength, maintaining muscle mass and bone density as well as good body mechanics.  

There are many strength training options that don't include weight lifting. 

 Find what you enjoy.  Don't forget walking, swimming, and Yoga.  Vary your workouts.  Train with a friend.  AND...

lululemon

...wear something cute!