19 February 2022
Christine Varano, CPT, Balanced Body Pilates Instructor, CSUtest.com contributor
Standing balance exercises are something everyone should do. They increase postural support, balance and stability. Start standing tall with a neutral spine and pelvis with your shoulders relaxed and chest open. Pull your right knee up and lift your foot off the floor and balance on your left foot. Keep your standing knee soft and hold for 10 seconds. Switch legs and hold for 10 seconds.
Training opposing muscle groups is vital to keeping muscle balance in the body. One of the weakest areas is the low back. Strong abdominals and tight hamstrings can make your low back weak and achy. Stretching and strengthening will keep the low back strong and healthy.
Don’t overcomplicate getting in shape. Think about how you got out of shape. It was probably by not going to the gym or working out at all so just showing up is a win. Focus on consistency and then progression.
Aerobic activities are great for strengthening your heart and increasing endurance but strength training will bring about more changes in your body, creating lean muscle and that muscle will help you burn more calories even when you're not working out.
Reward your workouts with things other than food. Get a pedicure, buy a new workout outfit or improve your living space. Putting aside the money you would have spent on unhealthy rewards adds up...but not on you!!
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