Over the years, I have tried both lifestyles and while one can help you start the day on a healthier note than the other, it is sometimes physically impossible for us to do so much early in the morning. What has worked for me is to incorporate exercises throughout my day to burn as many calories as I possibly can when an hour at the gym is too much to spare.
Taking the stairs and going for a walk during lunch are two ways to exercise but have you ever thought of working out while stuck in traffic? Whether you are the one driving or a passenger, it really is possible to workout in the car and the following are five easy exercises you can take on.
Twist to the side
Tone your abs and strengthen your core with the side twist which you can do even if you are driving. Sit up straight with your shoulders back and start to “tighten your abdominal area.” Once you feel that tightness in your core, twist your upper body somewhat to the right and then to the left. It is best to do this motion as slowly as you can, this way, the exercise will be at its most effective and more importantly, if you are driving, the subtlety of the exercise will not distract you from the road.
Work the belly
I don’t know about you, but I often wear flowy dresses to work which allow for ample space for my belly to grow and my abs to disappear. Work the belly in your car and engage your abs with this “belly busting” exercise. Start by bringing your belly in — the same way you would if you are trying to fit into a tight pair of pants. Hold it there and then breathe out for 20 times as quickly as you can.
Strengthen your spine
Long days sitting down often lead to a bad posture so work the spine with this simple exercise. Put your hands on the steering wheel “at 10 and 2” and as you do, start rounding your back and stretching you shoulder blades and the rest of the muscles. Use your breathing to help ease the tension off of your back.
Curl those biceps
You cannot do this number if you are driving (unless the traffic is moving in ant-like steps) but you can work your biceps as a passenger with lightweight dumbbells like a 5 or a 10 pound one. With the weight in your hand and your arm slightly bent, curl your bicep and try not to move your elbow up when you are performing the exercise.
Unwind the neck
When the car is at a standstill or the red light is on, go on and “tilt your right ear down towards your right shoulder,” breathe, then do the same for the left and feel your shoulders and neck releasing tension.
What about you? Do you do exercises in your car? Post in the comments and let us know.
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