Sunday, November 23, 2008

If YOU don't use it, YOU lose it!!

When it comes to muscular strength, there is great truth to the saying, “If you don’t use it, you lose it!” Within just a few days on inactivity, our muscles begin to atrophy. And, with the upcoming holidays, many of us will be traveling out of town and won’t be able to attend our regular StrollerFit and Restore the Core classes. But, that doesn’t mean that you can’t keep those mommy muscles strong! Bring your tube, mommymuscle bar and exercise band from your StrollerFit/Restore the Core kit with you! Keep these exercises in mind, and in just a few minutes a day, in the privacy of your hotel room or home, you can keep your muscles strong and toned!

1. Do a plank, but not just one… Do three! One side plank on each side and one center planks. Hold each for 30 seconds. Don’t forget to keep your navel pulled to your spine! Feeling strong and have the time? Complete two in each position for a total of six!

2. Push-up your age.

3. Complete 2-3 sets of 12 bicep curls with your tube or mommymuscle bar. Change them up (hammer curls, super slow, etc.) and add a couple additional sets for added challenge.

4. Ski squat (feet together) your age.

5. Regular squat (feet hip distance) your age. Power moms can add a plyometric jump for added intensity!

6. Tie your band around your ankles and do wide walks. Eight to the left, then to the right, then 4 each direction, then 2 each direction, then tap it wide for 30 seconds. Don’t have room to travel? Just tap it wide for 1 minute instead. Remember to step wide and keep the feet wide, keeping resistance on your band!

7. Climb the rope. Lie on your back and extend your feet in the air with your feet flexed. If you brought your mommymuscle balls, put one between your feet and squeeze. Reach opposite hand to opposite ankle. Twelve on each side for a total of 24.

8. Don’t forget to stretch!

Add a 20 minute walk (or longer) for even greater benefit! It’s a great chance to burn extra calories and catch up with family members and friends. And, just a reminder that if you’re pregnant, have recently had a baby, are nursing or have any other health conditions, make modifications, like those offered in class, to stay safe and prevent injury. All StrollerFit instructors can help you if you have any questions!

Don’t wait until 2009 to get into shape! Let’s start 2009 in great shape!

Written by featured StrollerFit blogger: Rachel Dossman

4 comments:

Becca said...

Good idea, and thanks for posting what things to do.

Kristi said...

Hmmm, might just do some of these when I teach tomorrow. ;) Thanks, Rachel!

Becky said...

Ohhhh I love it! I was just about to empty all my SF gear out of the car for our trip and now I might take my MM bar:) Great post!

B.E.A.L. said...

I love this post....thanks for including all the exercises to do! I am always wondering what would be good to do with my equipment at home!