I’ve been setting weekly health goals only to find myself disappointed at the end of each week knowing I did not achieve what I had planned. This time I am breaking down step-by-step one day a time.
My goal for tomorrow is to:
My reward for achieving 5 days of goals: New hair cut
What is your least favorite type of strength exercise?
Pull ups, because I just can’t do them.
Benefits of Stretching
Stretching has so many benefits. Just start a program of stretching, and you’ll soon notice many of them. Some of the benefits of stretching are:
- relief from pain
- increased energy levels
- increased flexibility
- better range of motion of the joints
- greater circulation of blood to various parts of the body
- relaxation and stress relief
- enhanced muscular coordination
- improved posture
- greater sense of well-being
Increased flexibility and range of motion. - As we age, our muscles tighten and we have less range of motion in our joints. Simple activities that we once took for granted, like cutting our toenails, picking things up from the floor or zipping a dress, can all become difficult. A regular stretching program can help lengthen your muscles and make these daily activities easier and more enjoyable.
Improved circulation. - Stretching improves circulation of blood to the muscles and joints. Increased blood circulation, of course, brings nutrients to our cells and removes waste byproducts.
Better posture. - Chronically tense and tight muscles contribute to poor posture, which in turn can affect the functioning of our internal organs, not to mention our appearance. Stretching the muscles of the lower back, shoulders and chest can help keep the back in better alignment and improve posture.
Relaxation and stress relief. - Stretching, done properly, helps to relax tense muscles which result from stress. The feeling of relaxation brings a sense of well-being and relief from tension.
Reduce or prevent lower back pain. - Greater flexibility and range of motion in the hamstrings and muscles of the hips and pelvis help to reduce the stress on your spine that causes lower back pain.
Article found at Heart Of Healing
(Source: radiat-elove)
What is your favorite type of strength exercise?
Weight training such as bicep curls and weighted squats. I love going to the 24 hour fitness body pump class because they have the routines worked out for you so you just have to do the moves without planning what to do next and it keeps you there for 1 hour.
(Source: hthjourney)
Since I’ve started my health journey at the end of Sept (3 months ago), I’ve lost 15 lbs and am able to run 8 miles (compared to 3 miles)! It’s been both challenging and fun and rewarding so far and I have every intention of keep working at it through my life. This is a lifestyle, not a fad.
Here are my New Year’s Health & Fitness Resolutions
Day 12 - What is your least favorite type of cardio?
Burpee and Mountain Climbers! I always feel like quitting after 2 minutes, yet I can run for an hour.
(Source: muffintop-less)
Day 11 - Today you will be cooking for your whole family. Find a healthy recipe online that they will also enjoy and show them how tasty healthy food can be!
I don’t have a family to cook for so instead, I found this recipe online that I’m going to cook for myself: Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Pomegranates and Hazelnuts (from the Food Network).
(Source: arthlete)
