Use Mini Workouts to Get Where You Want
By Tom Herrin
It is difficult enough for some of us to get into an exercise routine, so the last thing we want to do is slow ourselves down. Once we get going, we want to stay motivated. But a common problem is that we may get so involved that we end up eating into the time we need for family or work. When this happens, the consequence may not be good. Too many of us allow the workout to become too important as we continue to pursue our goals. We can actually work toward these goals in little bits and avoid cutting too deep into the time we need for other things. Mini workouts can be just as effective without giving up other things that are important to us. These workouts can be only ten or fifteen minutes each if we do them a few times per day.
Do Something for Cardio
One of the main points of exercising is to support the heart and respiratory system. You don't have to dedicate hours to the track each week. You can simply do a few things well. Jogging in place is not all that bad, and you can vary it by doing something with your arms or high knees as you jog. The point is to move for a period of time without stopping. There are a few kinds of lunges that work, or you could jump rope. If you are really short on space, you can even do something such as standing toe touches if you will work until you are a little tired.
Build the Chest
There are plenty of exercises you can do for the chest. I always like to do pushups at the start and end of my workout. This can help to tone the chest and may improve your posture. Butterflies can help to develop the pectoral muscles. A variety of presses or other movements will accomplish what you want.
Work the Biceps
At one time, big biceps were a sign of muscles. It is still important to work on them, but you do not have to use heavy weights. For short sessions, I like to use bands instead of weights because they are easy to carry with me. They are also simple to use. You can be pretty creative and work on those biceps for a few minutes at a time.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Rafael, Calif.