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October 3, 2007

Keeping Fit Both Mind And Body

I know our work is physically demanding, but I've decided to put myself on a light exercise program. It's nothing terribly formal because I have found that a strict regimen is not one I'm inclined to successfully follow. Instead, I will build my activities into my day so I will be more likely to do them.

I brought light free-weights to work. I will use my exercise ball as an exercise bench and work my upper body between sessions when possible. I want to focus especially on the muscle groups that require pulling because those muscles do not get used as much in my work.

Second is calisthenics for my lower body. In an effort to stave off some of the more insidious back pain, I've discovered side lunges along with regular lunges which help strengthen my adductors and tone the gluteal muscles. Along with that, there are some great ball-against-the-wall exercises that assist with traditional squats and sit-ups.

Walking is some of the best exercise for the heart and for weight loss. Lower level sustained activity burns more fat calories than killing yourself on a high cardio run. I hate feeling like I'm dying when I exercise, so this will be a perfect compromise. Not only that, the dog needs walking, too.

And finally, there is yoga. I intend to bring my sticky mat and store it at work. I've been doing yoga on and off since I was seventeen years old and lately I've noticed my flexibility declining since I have not been as diligent with the activity.

In an effort to not forget about strengthening my mind and concentration I have a variety of activities I switch up. Lately, I'm on a Scrabble kick. My husband and I play on a traditional board or on-line with each other because it's faster than setting up a board. I also acquired a Nintendo DS Lite and play Brain Academy and Brain Age. They even have a way to measure how old your brain is based upon how quickly and accurately you accomplish the tasks. I also switch up and do Sudoku puzzles both on-line, on paper, and on the Nintendo DS Lite. Sometimes I try my hand at crossword puzzles, but I really am bad at those.

Posted by linda at October 3, 2007 8:56 AM