Happy birth of our nation!
A quick pearl of wisdom from Ben Franklin himself:
“The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.”
Vacation is a great way to do so and many of us are on the road hunting down such joy. Here’s a quick way to keep your core strong so you can make a hasty return to your vacation playland. Better yet, ask your loved ones to join in so no one misses a moment!
We call this exercise “Windshield Wipers” but others call it a “lying twist.” We think we’re cuter and they are not very creative. Oh, just kidding. Actually, with all the rain this summer, we think we’ve aptly named it.
From beginner to advanced, you can build up your core muscles and stretch your hips and back at the same time.
- Lie on the ground with your arms outstretched to your sides.
- Bring your knees to your chest.
- Beginners can keep their knees bent, advanced should straighten their legs out.
- With a slow and controlled motion, lower your legs to one side of your torso until your thigh reaches the floor.
- Then raise your legs back up to center and then down to the opposite side. Repeat 10-20 times to each side.
- Exhale as you lift your legs, inhale as you lower them.
Difficulty Note: You can put any amount of bend in your knees depending on how hard you want to work. The more bend, the easier.
For the hardest work, straight legs and a ball or weight between the knees will really kick it up a notch.
Form Caveat: If your lower back comes off the floor as you lift up your legs, you’re form is compromised and you should make it easier. Also, if you find you are not able to control the motion from start to finish, your legs are too straight.
However you spin it, stay strong and joyful on the PATH Ahead!
Hey, and let us know how you maintain your healthy ways while on vacations.