Physical activity proves you are alive, it also sustains your life. So why aren’t we taking care of our bodies? The most common excuse I hear is lack of time. I have to tell you that the little bit of time you spend now could add years to your life. I don’t know about you but I am playing with my child and loving it and I have every intention of playing with my grandchildren. I want my daughter to grow up and be fit and health. Children learn by example. We have our children in every activity imaginable but we fail to take care of ourselves. What are we really teaching them?
Some of us don’t know what to do or feel uncomfortable at the gym. There are exercise routines you can do at home and there are personal trainers who want to help you. Women notoriously complain about their tummies after having a baby and about their thighs. To get nicer legs you have to get off the machines and do some lunges and squats. If you want to tighten that tummy you have to work the core. You can use Bosu balls or stand on one leg to get started. Body weight exercises such as pull- ups and push-ups are great at slimming the waistline. Get the kids involved and do some bear and crab crawls. You’ll be surprised what places are sore in the morning!
Women are notorious for skipping resistance training and doing only cardiovascular exercises. Yes, you need to work your heart and you need to vary the way you do to have the greatest impact. But resistance training is vital for women because it increases the amount of bone deposits assisting in the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis. If weights aren’t your thing then try bands, swimming, or even yoga. Be creative and have fun.
Did you know that you alter your brain chemistry when you exercise? Your brain produces those feel good neurotransmitters such as serotonin. Prozac is fake serotonin. It will make you feel good and give you more energy. Exercise helps us chronically sleep deprived mothers sleep better and it gets us into our skinny jeans. What more could you ask for?
I hope everyone gets outside tonight and enjoys the beautiful day!
Amy McCae 