Holidays and the New Year

The holidays are here, you have lots of things to do and places to go!  The dreaded holiday weight gain is right behind you.  It's running, maybe even sprinting, it wants to catch up, it wants to jump on and grab a free ride.  It'll be here before you know it, you'll turn around and there it is!  You'll look down and wonder how it got there too!  And so quickly!  Don't let it sneak up on you, drag you down, or suck your energy!  Take control.

You want to get strong and fit.  You really would like that active healthy lifestyle you hear so much about, but seriously, time is an issue for you.  You need to be more focused on getting a quality workout without sacrificing so much of your time.  Maybe you've exercised in one too many over-crowded dirty gyms and you're just not comfortable in that atmosphere.  The option of training in the comfort and convenience of your own home may be just the right fit for you. 

You don't need a lot of space or time to get in your workout.  30 minutes tops and you could be done!  You're looking for efficiency.  Getting fit doesn't have to be inconvenient or time consuming.  But it does have to be an absolute must.  Exercise must be a part of your day.  Give it the time it deserves and you get to reap the rewards.

A basic exercise routine should include:

·         A push exercise

·         A pull exercise

·         A squat (or variation of, ex: lunges, step ups...)

·         A vertical press

Throw in some rotational exercises and maybe some crunches and that's your full body workout!  Do two or three sets of each exercise 12 - 15 times.  You could also perform the exercises in a timed circuit format spending 30 - 45 seconds on each exercise, complete the circuit and repeat three to five times.  Your goal is to strength train two or three times per week.

Here's an example of what you could use for a full body balanced workout at home: 

·         Stability ball, medicine ball

·         Hand held weights, resistance bands (light, medium, heavy)

·         BOSU Ball (very fun and great exercise tool)

·         Kettlebells

·         TRX (suspension training)

If starting an exercise program on your own sounds too daunting, than hiring a personal trainer is a good option. Your trainer will design your program, teach you how to do each exercise correctly, help you get results, and keep you motivated!  Also, exercising with a friend or two helps you stay accountable and motivated!  If you're a stay-at-home Mom, you could organize a group workout while the kids play together or nap! 

Training at  home is an excellent way for busy people to include fitness in their day.  Start a program, stick with it and you'll enjoy the numerous benefits that come with an active healthy lifestyle!  Get moving, burn unwanted calories, build some strength and get fit!!

It's up to you!  Think.  Decide.  Do.