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Develop a Daily Bodyweight Strength and Flexibility Practice

By November 25, 2017 No Comments

If you decide to not brush your teeth for a month, don’t act surprised by cavities at your next dentist visit.  Checking in on your muscles and joints every single day is an essential practice to maintain strength, flexibility, and balance.  If you don’t have a regular home practice yet, here’s why you should start now…

Checking In:  Appreciate your vehicle!  This is the only body you will have in this lifetime.  If you want it to continue to run smooth as you age, you better check in on those joints and muscles.  Take fifteen minutes a day to move and feel your feet, ankles, knees, hips, spine, and shoulders.  Notice if something is feeling tighter then usual and learn to give it some attention.  By checking in with your body on a regular basis you can help prevent injuries.  If you have some problem areas on your body, use this time to address old injuries or sore spots.  Unchecked little problems can become big problems over time.

Offsetting Effects of Sitting (and other activities):  If you have a long commute or a profession in which you sit, a regular bodyweight routine can help offset the ill effects on your structure.  It takes regular practice to unlock this hours in front of the computer.  If you spent the weekend packing boxes or raking leaves, give your body a chance to unwind.  Playing a few rounds of golf or tennis in a week will have a similar impact on your muscles and joints.  Learn a routine to manage your physical stimulus and balance things out.

Stress, Bloodflow, and Energy:  A regular movement practice, in any capacity, is something we have control over.  Taking personal time for yourself is an opportunity to take a break from the day’s stress.  Relax, breathe, and focus on your body to increase blood flow and stabilize hormones.  If you have an activity you are preparing for, use your personal time to activate nerve and muscle function.  Invigorate your energy and ability to enjoy your favorite activities.  Start a home practice with stretches and movements you feel comfortable with.  Every little bit counts!

Sean Fitzpatrick

Author Sean Fitzpatrick

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