It's Family Day in Ontario. A day off and we couldn't have wished for better weather. A little bit cool and full of sunshine. I managed to get out an enjoy it with an afternoon run. It was glorious.
I am going to round out my workout today with some core exercises and you know I will be including this one in the mix. Seated oblique twists are a great exercise to help you work on balance, lower back and abdominals muscles.
Remember to check with your doc before you start any exercise program and think about:
Engaging your pelvic floor muscles (Kegels).
Making the exercise more challenging by holding a medicine ball or hand weight.
Making the exercise easier by keeping your feet on the floor.
The title of this post made me think of the 20 Minute Workout.
It was a Canadian exercise program, which featured women doing their thing in slinky leotards on a rotating platform. If you haven't had the pleasure, then you need to check out this video.
Well, you won't have to wear leg warmers or spin around in a circle to do this workout (unless you want to ;). The only thing they have in common is that they are both fast.
I am all about exercising more efficiently. You can get more done in a shorter amount of time if you amp up your intensity.
This is what I like to call my "no excuses workout". If you have a half an hour to watch TV, you have time for this workout.
The routine consists of three circuits with 1-2 minutes of rest between each circuit.
Remember to drink water (go for sips instead of gulps), take a break when you need it and consult with your doctor before you start any exercise program.
The 30 Minute Workout
Equipment Needed:
Resistance Band
Step Platform or Workout Bench
Stop watch or clock with a second hand
I chose the runner's lunge this month because it is a fantastic exercise that targets your entire lower body and with some added weights, your shoulders and arms. Here are some points to keep in mind:
If you are new to exercise, don't step as far back or lunge as deeply, eliminate the weights and/or bring the toe to the floor instead of raising the knee
Keep your shoulders relaxed and over your hips with abdominals tights
Increase the intensity by dropping your knee down to the floor and/or using heavier weights
