What If I Can’t Get Out to Exercise?
The snow last month presented a challenge to those who get their exercise from walking or going to the gym. So I looked through some of my TOPS magazines and came across some exercise ideas to do at home.
Here are some simple ideas I found. Everyone has probably done these at some time or other but there is a difference between knowing how to do them and remembering to actually do them. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.
- To help improve your balance stand near a counter or solid support. Push yourself up onto your tiptoes. Hold for 5 seconds. Hold onto the counter if you start to lose your balance. Rest and repeat 5 times. Work up to holding for 20 to 30 seconds.
- Stand up straight, hands at your sides. Bend one leg at the knee to lift your leg behind you. Hold for 15 seconds. Lower the foot and do the same with the other leg. Repeat 3 times and day. Again, I recommend you stand near a solid support.
- To increase your flexibility, sit on a chair and rest your foot on a low stool or sturdy object. Straighten your leg and reach down with both hands, both sides of your leg. Hold 20 seconds. Sit up again and repeat 5 times. Then switch to the other leg.
- You might want to build strength in your arms. For this one you can hold a filled water bottle or can of soup in your hand for a homemade weight. Sit up straight in a chair. Keep you elbow close to your body and keep your wrist straight. Bend your arm, moving your hand up to your shoulder. Then slowly lower you arm. Repeat 5 times. Then switch to the other arm.
These exercises were found in the December 2017 to January 2018 issue of “TOPS News.”
A friend gave me a tip on getting exercise while watching TV. She said to get up off the couch and march in place during each commercial. I thought that was a good idea and have done it myself, when I remembered. Or, you could just put on some music and dance. And remember to have fun.
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Submitted by Amber Harvey