Keep Your Workouts Small and Get Healthier
By Tom Herrin
Making a point to exercise can help any of us to get in better shape. Commitments are easy to talk about but often hard to keep. Once we get into a good exercise program in which we see real progress, we can get hooked. This can drive us to put in lots of time, some of which can be taken away from family and work. If this happens, it can all become counterproductive. It is possible to accomplish the same thing, in the way of working out, by doing mini workouts that may be done in 10 or 15 minutes at a time several times during the day.
Cardio Is Important
Of all the things we can do in the way of exercising, it is critical that we do something for the heart and respiratory system. If you don't have time for running or jogging on a track, jogging in place is not a bad substitute. You can vary it by adding some kind of arm movement as you go. Jumping rope appeals to some. You may also want to do some kinds of lunges. Anything that gets you moving is likely to help.
Work on Shoulders
Most men would like to have good shoulders. Doing so can help us as we do anything physical. I always liked to use dumbbells for a lot of my workouts. You can do all kinds of things that improve the shoulders, such as some presses, lifts, etc. Front, lateral, and side raises are pretty good as well. Those of us who have limited space ability to transport or store things may do well with bands. You can get pretty creative with them. You just want to remember to do something that tests the shoulders as you exercise.
Strengthen the Back
Improving the muscles in the back does not mean we should plan to go out and overuse the back, but it can often support other parts of the body. Most kinds of rowing are helpful. Deadlifts work for some, but doing so with much weight may be risky. You need to use caution. This is another place in which bands may be the safer way to go with far less risk of injury. Whatever you do, taking the time to think it out may be a great help. Once you get into it, you will easily think of some other ways you can do your workouts.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mequon, Wis.