Posted by Jennifer Popper on Sun, Apr 05, 2009 @ 06:19 PM
I just looked at the calendar, and thought, "Oh, my!" Count for yourself - there are only 50 days until the unofficial start of summer - Memorial Day.
Don't get me wrong, I love summer; I love the sun and sand, barbecues, and a great day of beach volleyball. But ask most people, and they'll say they want to drop anywhere from five to fifteen pounds, and quick! They want to shape up, tone, and slim down so they look good and feel healthy participating in all of the activities that arise during the summer season.
Lately, I think about how I can squeeze in some extra workout time for myself. Take the stairs. Walk to the farmer's market for the goodies that will go into my smoothies. Get that bike in for a tune-up ASAP. And what are you doing? What have you been doing? If you haven't moved much during the cold, wintry months, be careful. Don't become a weekend warrior, or you just may find yourself making regular visits to a chiropractor.
I have found myself bugging my husband to get out of bed for his 6am yoga class so he maintains the flexibility to endure 18 holes on the golf course (he's probably on the 15th hole as I write this!). He'll even ask for some Pilates Reformer instruction once in awhile. If you are unsure of where to start for yourself, inquire about a Pilates for Golf routine to help you avoid injury. A golf swing requires one to rotate the upper body while maintaining a stable lower body. Ask a qualified Pilates instructor to give you a Torso Rotation Test. If you're looking for a better swing, check out this recent article from Pilates Digest, "Pilates for a Better Golf Swing" and practice what they preach!
If you think that it’s too late to start exercising, I’d have to challenge you and say you’re incorrect. It’s never too late, regardless of the date on the calendar. Anyone can do it, yourself included. Look at one of our clients. Sophia stopped by last week with her six-month old son, wanting to sign up for some Pilates mat classes to help her get back on the proverbial exercise horse. As you can see, she looked fabulous doing yoga while she was pregnant. I see pictures of her, and I'm inspired to move, move, move! (Not sure where to find yoga near you? Click HERE to find local classes in your area.)
Now, as much as I would love to say that Studio Fitness is the ONLY place that can help you achieve your fitness goals, that would be very far from the truth. No matter where you decide to take classes that help you strengthen and lengthen, just get out there and do it so you’ll be bathing suit ready when the calendar says sand, sun and fun!
Take our quick poll and tell us if you're ready for summer. And always feel free to stop by for a class at Studio Fitness!