Sometimes you go to bed and you realize you forgot to do something. Sure you brushed and flossed, the kids are all tucked into bed, and the kitchen is clean. Then you realize that you neglected to work out. Exercising is so important to your health. Why are we neglecting it? Do you really have an excuse? We all lead busy lives, but it is important to take care of yourself. Here are some simple ways to integrate physical activity into your life.
Walking the dog.
Marching during commercials.
When you go to get the mail, go for a tiny walk.
Watch Netflix on the treadmill.
Take short stretching breaks during the day.
Pace while you are on the phone.
Park away from the entrance.
Take the stairs when possible.
If you have small children, use a jogging stroller.
If it is raining, go to the mall to walk. You can even buy yourself a treat as a reward for walking.
These are all activities that do not cost money (unless you splurge on something at the mall) You can do these things and forget that you are actually exercising in the process. How sweet is that?
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Having said all that, joining a gym that is between your work and home is the best opportunity to get serious about exercise. This way you stop two or three days per week and get a great workout in. Even if you have equipment at home, there are so many distractions. At the gym, all there is to do is work out! Here are some tips for this more serious strategy.
Get a functional evaluation first with Dr. Fowler or someone comparably trained. You want to make sure there are no key muscles shut down which would stress to your spine during exercise.
Perform active stretching prior to activity in the gym to warm up muscles and joints. This can be covered in a 20-minute rehab session with Dr. Fowler.
Start slowly and make sure you understand how to use the equipment in the gym.
Brace your core and move purposefully with all strenuous activity. (this can be covered in the brief rehab strategy/active stretching session).
Enjoy yourself, it’s not a chore!!