Showing posts with label healthy living. Show all posts
Showing posts with label healthy living. Show all posts

5/19/07

Get to the Core of It!

Want to have an attractive, firm, flat stomach? You're not alone! But did you know that there's a lot more to your abs than just good looks? Your abdominal muscles are vital to almost every activity you do — from running and playing tennis to picking up a bag of groceries and standing up tall! Think of your abs as the "core" from which all your power comes!

So why not tap into this energy source? Make sure you do some type of abdominal-building exercise at least three times a week, whether it's the ever-popular crunches or the core-building moves of Pilates. Put working out your abs on your to-do list! Not only will you be stronger, but you'll enjoy the lean, sleek physique that goes along with fit abs!

The best part is that it won't be long before you see the results of your efforts — even if you've had a baby — because this muscle group bounces back fast once you get started. So get those abs moving!

Dig In! (Denise Austin)

Want an excuse to play in the dirt? Here's one — gardening is good for you! It's true! Raking leaves, digging holes, mowing the lawn, and pushing wheelbarrows can burn tons of calories while keeping your heart, lungs, and circulatory systems in top shape! All that lifting and tugging will also lead to stronger muscles and bones!

Just look at the calories you can burn by exercising that green thumb:

Activity (30 minutes)

Calories burned

Turning compost 250
Mowing lawn 200
Planting trees 182
Pruning shrubs 182
Digging 173
Raking 162
Pulling weeds 145
Bagging leaves 144