LiveSmart: Too Many Cookies? Too Much Stress? Burn It Off!

Keeping fit during the holidays can be tough. However, here’s a simple, 10-minute home workout to help you burn off some of those cookies, help you deal with stress, and have the energy of one of Santa’s elves.

Do these for one minute each:

• Warm up with a brisk walk (outside or around the house)
• Jumping jacks
• Jump rope (you can pretend if you don’t have a rope)
• Run as fast as you can for one minute (in place or outside)
• Ski hops: Stand with feet together, bend knees and jump a few feet to the right and then left, landing with bent knees.
• Jumping jacks
• Walk as fast as you can
• Jump rope
• Jumping jacks
• Walk around and catch your breath

If your knees aren’t up to the jumping jacks or jumping rope, you can substitute brisk marching in place, climbing up and down a staircase, or even stepping up and down off a low stool.

Some other important tips are:

• Exercise wherever you can. Build in more movement, whether it’s parking on the opposite side of the mall or taking the stairs instead of riding the elevator or escalator.
• Be active as a family. Walk around the neighborhood. Play a little football before the big family holiday meal. Plan contests with the kids to see who can jump the furthest or who can win a friendly match of arm-wrestling.
• Don’t forget strength training. Maintain your muscle mass by paring down your routine to the basics. Choose compound, multi-joint movements to make sure you’re getting the most out of your time. With a floor mat, a bench and two free weights, you can add effective strength training at home.

And don’t forget: Before starting any new fitness plan, make sure you check in with your doctor.

Physical medicine and outpatient rehabilitation services from St. Peter’s Health Partners help you move through life on your terms. We are one of the Capital Region’s most trusted programs, with a broad range of services at locations throughout the Capital Region that relieve pain and make the most of your abilities.

Whether you’ve experienced an injury, are recovering from surgery, or learning new methods to perform daily tasks when a medical condition limits your physical or mental abilities, St. Peter’s is here for you. Our knowledgeable therapists take time to get to know you and personalize your care, so you are more likely to achieve your goals.

For more information, visit us at https://www.sphp.com/find-a-service-or-specialty/rehabilitation/physical-therapy/.