2 Posts are tagged with: new_balance

Workout Tip of the Week: Stretching Routines that Reduce Stress

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Jun 5, 2009 by Sabah K.

When you're sitting behind a computer all day or are stuck behind a desk for hours on end, the seated position will take its toll on your posture. Stretching throughout the day can help improve circulation and keep your energy levels up. Stretching is especially important if you're trying to keep up with your get-fit routine; if you do manage to sneak off for a workout during lunch hour, or snag a break in the mid-afternoon for a power walk, stretching your arms and legs properly will reduce the risk of injury and keep you strong and healthy. Here are some easy stretching routines you can do behind your desk, any time of day:

Lower Arm Stretch: Interlace your fingers and push your arms out in front of you. Tense your upper back and shoulder blades, and continue pushing forward until you feel your back muscles contract. Hold for 10-15 seconds at a time, and repeat.

Oblique Stretch: Extend your arms overhead and hold one hand with the other while pulling your body to the side. Hold for 15 seconds, inhale and exhale, then do the same to the other side. This is a great way to stretch at your waist and elongate your torso.

Ankle Rotations: Sit with square shoulders and feet slightly apart. Lift one leg up about a foot from the ground and rotate your ankles clockwise for 20 revolutions and counterclockwise for 20 revolutions. Repeat with the other leg.

Upper Back Stress Buster: A great one if you're hunched over a computer keyboard or laptop for most of the day; interlace your fingers behind your head and make sure your elbows are pointing straight out. Push your elbows back to make your shoulder blades contract, and hold the muscles in a tense position for at least 10 seconds before relaxing. Repeat 2-3 times.

Shoulder Stretch: Hunch your shoulders tightly up towards your neck and hold for 15 seconds before releasing. Repeat for 10 seconds, and release. This will help loosen up your upper back and tense neck muscles.

Don't forget to drink lots of water throughout the day, since this also keeps your energy levels up when you're in a seated position for most of the day. And, be sure to pack those walking shoes for those opportune moments where you can squeeze in a workout during your break.

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Workout Tip of the Week: Stop the Clock for Fitness!

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May 14, 2009 by Sabah K.

It's been a long and stressful day at the office, or you've been blessed with looking after a gaggle of young kids over the Spring Break holiday. Whatever the case may be, hitting the gym for a workout or even your new exercise regimen suddenly disappeared into the abyss of the priority list. Working out regularly promises dozens of health benefits, including lower blood pressure, decreased stress levels and even a better sense of well being. Unfortunately, most of us don't make enough time to meet our weekly minimum requirements; when health and fitness take a backseat, we also put ourselves at risk for fatigue and stress.

Fear not! There are some ways to schedule a workout into even the busiest schedule. If your calendar is packed to the brim with to-do items, here are some ways to sneak in a workout or two in your busy day:

Spend Mondays with a Personal Trainer
If you can invest in a personal trainer, get your week off on the right start with a one-on-one session first thing on Monday morning. If you can't spare the cash for a trainer, enlist a buddy instead; make a commitment to hit the gym together first thing on Monday to kick those post-weekend blues together and get a positive start on fitness for the week ahead.

Become an Early Riser
If you're already getting up early to head to the office or wake up the kids for school, set your alarm for 45 minutes earlier than usual to get a head start on your day. Just 30 minutes of vigorous activity - jump roping, speed walking or a quick jog - is enough to get your metabolism in gear and burn fat all day long. Keep those running shoes by your bedside and throw on your workout gear before the household begins their day.

Make the Most of Lunch Hour
Have 15 minutes to spare during lunch hour? Change into some walking shoes and hit the streets for a power walking session. If you live in the city, this is a great way to window shop and explore new neighborhoods. If you're in the country, enjoy the fresh air and great outdoors while burning a few extra calories!

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