GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. - Watching our US teams compete in the Olympics is nothing short of motivational. Although you may not be qualifying for any Olympic team sport in the near future, use this surge of inspiration to get active and train for your own event. Instead of thinking exercise - think GAMES!
Who knew an hour of table tennis could work up a sweat! The summer Olympics has so many events from which to choose, fitness expert Chris Freytag tells us how to bring the spirit home:
Swimming-head to the local pool - do laps, aerobics, play ball with your kids, have your kids make up a synchronized swimming routine.
Track & Field- Visit your local track or walking path with your friends. Try walking at lunch. Create a long jump in your back yard. Draw an agility ladder with chalk on your driveway and work on your foot work and speed.
Volleyball- If you don't have a beach, how about the backyard? Volleyball and badminton sets are fairly inexpensive and provide hours of entertainment.
Gymnastics - Test your balance and grace by practicing cartwheels, handstands, forward and backward rolls in your backyard. These are all great activities to improve your flexibility and upper body strength.
Rowing - Try out a canoe, kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board all of which are great for an upper body and core workout.
(Copyright 2012 by KARE. All Rights Reserved.)