December 1, 2021

In this newsletter . . .

A Happy December

There are plenty of articles and advice on ways to enjoy the holiday season while not overeating, for example. Of course, it does require a little willpower. But managing food intake now is much better than stuffing ourselves (adding unwanted pounds), and then promising to do better next year. New poundage often becomes a permanent fixture.

Another thing, regular exercise often gets pushed aside in December. It may seem like there aren’t enough hours in the day to do everything, with shopping and trips here and there to visit friends and relatives. It’s hard to fit everything in.

Here’s some advice from the experts. If you are well organized enough to follow your regular routine, that’s great! But if you cannot devote the usual time for workouts, abbreviate your training. Three short 10-minute segments a day of physical activity is easy to fit into even the busiest schedule.

And don’t discount those 10-minute efforts. They pay off.

Also take a few minutes when you can to sit quietly and do a little relaxed, deep breathing. It relieves tension and calms your mind.

Such seemingly small things as portion-control eating and short exercise and relaxation breaks really can make a difference. You won’t be looking in the mirror on January 1st and saying, “Ugh! I’ve put on ten pounds and haven’t worked out in weeks."

Abbreviated workouts:

What's the saying? Half a loaf is better than none at all. Squeeze in some good bodyweight exercises that can be done on the spot.

Here are a couple of example combinations that will give your body a good little workout in a brief period . . .

• Alternate some standard pushups with side split squats (or regular deep knee bends, if side splits squats are too difficult) and one arm rows.
  Or . . .
• If you have a set of dumbbells handy, try alternating the clean and press with mountain climbers and one arm rows.

Discover other quick ideas for three movement combos at Exercise Demonstrations or bodyweight exercises here.

Do the 10-minute segments with rest between sets according to need; follow up with a little relaxed deep breathing. It works. Like magic, you’ll maintain muscle tone along with a calm bearing through the busy holidays.

Stay healthy. Stay fit.

Logan

Senior Exercise Central

Are you on Facebook?

I search the Internet for senior health and fitness items. If you like what you see, please click the Like button. It helps me.

Your comments and questions are always appreciated. Simply click on the "Reply" bottom.

Sincerely,

Logan Franklin
The Gray Iron Fitness Newsletter
www.senior-exercise-central.com