Can't commit to a full workout regime or highly restrictive diet? You don't need to.

Health and wellness come not from a magic pill, diet, or program, but from gradually transforming your current lifestyle into a healthy one, day by day.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Tip #3: Have a seat...


Against your wall. I realize that you are all busy people, and you may not have a lot of extra time to do a full strength training workout after a full day of work. Try this “fun” exercise out while you are watching your favorite show. A wall squat will strengthen and tone your thighs and buttocks. I’ll have a full post on strength training later, but you should know that it helps prevent osteoporosis and raises your metabolism (along with MANY other benefits). Those who do some sort of strength training 1-2 times per week, actually burn more calories just sitting on the couch, than the person sitting next to them who does not.

Place your back straight against the wall, with your thighs parallel to the floor and your legs at a 90 degree angle, as so wonderfully displayed by my husband above. Start out by holding that position for 5 seconds if you can, and then rest. Do not rest your hands on your thighs. You will feel some discomfort and maybe a little burning. That’s okay; it just means the exercise is working!



Beginners: 3 x 5 seconds (with 30 seconds rest in between)

Intermediate: 10 x 5 seconds (with 10 seconds rest in between)

Advanced: 5 x 10 seconds (with 5 seconds rest in between)


Do this once or twice a week as you are watching tv or during work if you have that freedom and privacy. The more you do this, the stronger you will become, and the easier it will become. Listen to your body, and as it becomes easier, add more seconds, and/or lessen your rest. It is normal to have some soreness the day following strength training exercises.

This may feel awkward at first, but try something new! Even if you just do this once, at least it's a start! You’re body and your metabolism will thank you.

4 comments:

  1. I absolutely love your usage of Joe as the "wall squat" model! LOL! That's awesome.

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  2. thanks for posting this! i do not have any strength training in my workout so this is perfect!

    Nadia

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  3. I learned recently that this exercise also strengthens pelvic floor muscles, and for any lady who has had a baby, those muscles ALWAYS need strenthening!!

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  4. Eb-doesn't Joe look thrilled to be posing? Stay tuned...I'm sure he'll be doing more modeling in the future :)

    Nadia-so glad you found the post helpful. Keep up the good work!

    Leigh-thanks for the added info. Great news for all of us mamas :)

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