Category: Exercise

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Physical Therapy Before an Injury…

Posted on by Lenny Variano

Working with a good physical therapist can be beneficial in avoiding months of inactivity or even in some cases surgery. Should you seek Physical Therapy before a serious injury occurs? These therapists are miracle workers after surgery or a serious sports injury, but they can also help with strengthening parts of the body that may become future injuries due to certain activities. Prehab (preventive physical therapy) is now recommended by many physicians who work especially with athletes. They can foresee a future injury and recommend PT as a part of their training routine to stay ahead of what may be a debilitating injury. An experienced physical therapist will be able to advise you on where a certain feeling of discomfort is originating. For example, knee pain may need to be treated by strength exercises relating from the ankle or hip. If you have a nagging injury such as chronic tendonitis it may be helpful to work with a physical therapist who can give you strength and mobility exercises. Prehab before surgery can also speed up the recovery process afterwards. Word of mouth from those involved in the same activities is one of the best ways to seek out a PT. Many are specialized and work with certain injuries. Come prepared for your first appointment with a list of specific ailments to give as clear a picture as possible. Be ready to do home exercises as part of a successful recovery.

https://www.hss.edu/article_what-is-prehab.asphttps://www.reloadpt.com/pain-management/how-prehab-physical-therapy-can-help-athletes-prevent-injuries-4

 

Dancing as an Alternate Form of Exercise…

Posted on by Lenny Variano

Dancing is one of America’s oldest pastimes. It can benefit us both mentally and physically. Research is showing that dancing can improve cardiovascular health, endurance, help with balance, as well as strengthen both muscle and bone. Including dance as part of your daily routine can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost memory retention. This is especially true when learning new steps such as in partner dancing. It is a fun way to increase metabolism which in combination with diet can aid in weight management. As we age it is important to increase flexibility, so we do not limit our range of motion which is an important benefit to consider. Research is finding that dancing releases endorphins that reduce anxiety and lessen depression as well as loneliness. So, if you are not a fan of organized exercise maybe try listening to some of your favorite music tracks and start moving whether it be in your own home or on a dance floor and just loosen up to your favorite dance music.

 

https://www.prudential.co.th/corp/prudential-th/en/we-do-pulse/health-wellness/10-health-benefits-of-dancing/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9234256/

Make Kids a Part of your Workout…

Posted on by Lenny Variano

Parents with young children may find it difficult to exercise. Children have needs that have to be met. Instead of forgoing exercise it may be better to include children in your workout. Research is showing that children with active parents are more likely to be active. First it is necessary to let go of what was previously considered an “ideal workout”. Jumping and climbing can be extremely aerobic if done together. If it is floor exercises, work as partners. If the child gets bored make him or her your personal trainer in which he has to count how many reps you are doing. Children love a position of responsibility and authority. Make music a part of the workout. Speed up when certain phrases are sung. Into running? Have you child pace you as he or she rides a bike alongside of you. Make use of playgrounds. Whatever apparatus (ex. monkey bars) is there for a child can also work for an adult. Create a dance routine from YouTube videos. Children have a great deal of energy, and they should. So instead of play dates with other children make a play date with your own child. It may even make you feel like a child again.

https://www.baby-chick.com/incorporate-the-kids-into-your-workout-routine/

Standing for Fitness…

Posted on by Lenny Variano

Does pacing help when trying to solve a difficult problem? Does it improve brain function? We already know that sitting for long periods of time can have negative health consequences. If so does standing have the opposite effect on our health? In a study published by the University of California, sedentary behavior resulted in reduced thickness of the medial temporal lobe of the brain. This is the area that is critical for memory and learning. The study included 35 participants ages 45 to 70. Preexisting conditions and psychiatric disorders were screened out. These participants were asked about their activity levels and the amount of time they spent sitting. After taking MRI scans of the medial temporal lobes, there was a correlation in the thickness of this area in relation to the levels of sitting as opposed to standing. The group that had the thinnest medial temporal lobe was the group that did the most sitting. The study also found that the level of exercise did not have as great an effect as the level of standing.

https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/taking-stand-against-prolonged-sitting