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Fit balance exercises into a busy day – Harvard Health

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Fit balance exercises into a busy day – Harvard Health

Adding balance exercises to a hectic schedule might seem like one chore too many. How are you supposed to squeeze in another 30-minute regimen when you’re already exercising daily, working, and running errands? The answer is by doing a little balance training at a time. “Just a minute of balance exercise here or there has a cumulative effect. As your balance improves, it gets easier to carry out daily functions,” says Kristina Dunlea, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

We need good balance to safely perform upright activities, such as walking, getting up and down from a chair or bed, climbing stairs, or reaching up for a dish in a cupboard. Unfortunately, balance declines over time, increasing the risk of falls — a leading cause of injury and disability past age 65.

Finding the time

Since you need only a minute for a balance exercise, Dunlea recommends integrating it into a free moment that’s already built into your day.

“For many people, it’s when they’re standing and waiting for coffee to brew or brushing their teeth. Or it might be during TV time: think of commercials as your cue to get up and do a balance exercise,” she suggests.

Those opportunities also come with equipment to keep you safe if you become unstable during a balance exercise, such as a counter or desk to hold on to or a chair to fall back on.

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Balance exercise ideas

A counter or sturdy chair works well for several effective balance exercises.

For example, a sturdy chair is a good spot for a sit-to-stand exercise — going from a sitting to a standing position, arms crossed, then returning to a sitting position and repeating the process. Dunlea recommends doing this exercise five to 10 times in a row. “It strengthens your leg and abdominal muscles and trains you to shift the main weight of your body up over your feet — your base of support,” she explains.

A counter works well for doing one minute of heel raises, tandem standing or walking, or standing on one leg (see “3 balance exercises to try at home”). “Standing on one leg is especially helpful for tasks requiring you to shift your weight and balance on one leg for a moment, such as climbing stairs or stepping up onto a curb,” Dunlea says.

But don’t continue a balance exercise if it’s so challenging that you’re at risk of falling. And if you currently have balance problems, it’s best to work with a physical therapist before trying these moves on your own. For more information, check out the Harvard Special Health Report Better Balance.

3 balance exercises to try at home

Tandem standing

Stand with your arms at your sides. Place your left foot directly in front of your right foot, heel to toe, and squeeze your inner thighs together. Lift your arms out to your sides to help you balance. Hold the position up to 30 seconds. Return to the starting position, then repeat with your right foot in front.

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Heel raises

photo of a man performing the heel raises exercise as described in the article

Stand with your arms at your sides. Lift your heels, shifting your weight to the balls of your feet. Try to balance evenly without allowing your ankles to roll inward or outward. Hold. Lower your heels to the floor, maintaining good posture as you do. Repeat 10 times.

Single leg stance

photo of a man performing the single leg stance exercise as described in the article

Stand with your arms at your sides. Bend your right knee, lifting that foot several inches off the floor, and balance on your left leg. Hold the position up to 30 seconds. Return to the starting position, then repeat the process while balancing on your right leg.


Exercise photos by Michael Carroll

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Fitness

Grant from energy company funds exercise equipment for Ohio firefighters

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Grant from energy company funds exercise equipment for Ohio firefighters

By J Swygart
The Lima News

SHAWNEE TOWNSHIP, Ohio — Employees of the Shawnee Township Fire Department now have access to updated exercise and fitness equipment, with more devices to arrive soon, following the receipt of a $12,367 grant from Energy Transfer company’s First Responder Fund.

According to Chris Koop, manager of public affairs for the energy logistics company with more than 120,000 miles of pipeline infrastructure located in 44 states, the program is unique as it focuses on cardiovascular health.

“That’s something the public doesn’t usually think about,” he said.

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Shawnee Township Fire Department Chief Austin Miller said statistics show a majority of deaths among firefighters are cardio-related. He thanked the Energy Transfer representative for the funding that has already resulted in the purchase of a large weight-lifting machine and numerous dumbbells. Two treadmills and other new devices will arrive soon.

Miller said current equipment in the fire station is showing wear and tear, including some pieces that deteriorated to the point where they are no longer safe to use.

“This grant from Energy Transfer will enable us to replace outdated equipment, ensuring our team can safely exercise and remain fit on the job,” Miller said. “By maintaining our physical health, we can continue to meet the rigorous demands of our profession and provide the highest level of service to our community.”

Most live-in volunteers at Berkeley Hills, Edgewood , Monroeville and Penn Hills stay for an average of three to five years

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East End Firefighter Eric Frantz worked with fire chiefs to create a new source of future first responders

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“When we arrived, the baby had no pulse and was not breathing,” Sacramento Firefighter Adrienne Bisharat said, recalling the highway incident

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Henderson County Fire Chief Joseph Lynn Murphy experienced cardiac arrest hours after responding to an emergency call

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The chief commended firefighter/paramedic Christie Kerby for taking the lead on the grant application, saying her “dedication and hard work made all of this possible.”

Kerby said firefighters are required to work out for an hour each day and must meet fitness incentive requirements and undergo annual physical testing and health exams.

“Health and wellness is very important, not just for us but also for the community we serve,” she said.

The newly purchased equipment has been placed, due to its massive size, in a garage located behind the fire station. Other fitness equipment remains in the basement of the firehouse but will be moved into the garage area soon.

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“At that point we will invite the (township) police department and township employees to join us and use the equipment after things are all set up,” Miller said.

The new exercise equipment could be moving again in the not-too-distant future. Miller said discussions surrounding a new fire station are in the early stages, and a new facility could become a reality in the next two or three years.

(c)2024 The Lima News (Lima, Ohio)
Visit The Lima News (Lima, Ohio) at www.limaohio.com
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Looking to navigate the complexities of grants funding? Lexipol is your go-to resource for state-specific, fully-developed grants services that can help fund your needs. Find out more about our grants services here.

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Bigg Boss 18 Digvijay Singh Rathee's Guide to Achieving A Well-Built Body: Expert Shares How You Can Get Those Six-Pack Abs

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Bigg Boss 18 Digvijay Singh Rathee's Guide to Achieving A Well-Built Body: Expert Shares How You Can Get Those Six-Pack Abs

Digvijay Singh Rathee, recently evicted from ‘Bigg Boss 18’, has made a name for himself as a fitness enthusiast. With his first appearance on the reality show ‘Roadies’, the 26-year-old has been in the limelight for his well-built physique and six-pack abs. His journey to achieving a well-built body is inspiring and can serve as a guide for anyone looking to enhance their physical fitness. Regarding his abs, our expert, Varnit Yadav, exercise coach had a few tips on getting the perfect body. 

Strength Training

The Bigg Boss 18 ex-contestant incorporates various strength training exercises into his routine, focusing on major muscle groups. His workouts typically include weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and dips that enhance functional strength.

Running Early In The Morning

 

To maintain cardiovascular health and manage body fat, Digvijay integrates cardio workouts into his weekly schedule. It consists of running or jogging for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity running several times a week.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Digvijay Rathee opts for short bursts of intense exercise followed by rest periods to maximize calorie burn.

Regular Intake Of Meal

 

For his workout, the former Splitsvilla contestant opts for meals at an interval of three hours. Foods like chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes play an important role in supporting muscle repair for the youngster. 

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Adequate Sleep 

Understanding that recovery is vital for muscle growth and overall health, Digvijay emphasises having quality sleep. He ensures to have adequate sleep each night to allow the body to recover. 

ALSP READ: Ram Kapoor’s Incredible 42 Kg Weight Loss: Actor Once Followed 16/8 Intermittent Fasting, Expert Weighs

Expert Tips On Getting Six-Pack Abs

 

Achieving six-pack abs is a goal for many fitness enthusiasts, and requires a strategic combination of exercise, nutrition, and consistency. Regarding the same, our expert, Varnit Yadav, exercise and nutrition coach, gave a few tips. To take your body to the point where those abs are visible and popping out, you have to act on the following. 

  • Keep dropping your body weight till you are satisfied with the body fat composition
  • Creating a calorie deficit is crucial, which can be achieved by eating less, exercising more, or both.
  • Ensure a high protein diet when reducing calories to preserve your hard-earned muscle mass; 1.5grams per kg of body weight should be a decent place to be in (considering you are staying reasonably active)
  • Prioritise sleeping 7 or more hours to ensure the most optimum results 
  • Supplement if required with necessary vitamins and minerals if you are not able to meet them from your diet
  • Strength training at least 3-5 times a week will ensure consistent progress
  • Treat your abs like any other muscle in your body, but do not overtrain them, as it will be counterproductive. You can train your abs three times a week by including movements such as hanging leg raises, crunches, planks, etc.

Achieving a well-defined six-pack is a dream for many fitness enthusiasts, but it’s essential to prioritize your overall health and well-being in the process. Before embarking on any intense exercise regimen, it’s highly advisable to consult with a dietitian or fitness expert. They can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you follow a balanced approach that supports your fitness goals while safeguarding your body.

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This vibration plate is a secret weapon for ‘losing all that jiggly stuff’ — and $50 off on Amazon

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This vibration plate is a secret weapon for ‘losing all that jiggly stuff’ — and  off on Amazon

New year, new goals, and new products to help achieve them — that is our 2024 retail scene wrapped.

For anyone committed to working out and eating healthy, there’s nothing quite as frustrating as the last couple of inches that refuse to come off your waist. If you’ve been in that boat, you’ve probably tried all the home gym equipment under the sun — from waist trainers to resistance bands, ankle weights, treadmills, and everything in between.

Apparently, shoppers have come across one machine that seems to be working miracles for stubborn fat. The LifePro Vibration Plate creates a full-body vibration that stimulates musculature, causing extra contractions and increased activation at all stages of your workout. Best of all, it’s currently 25% off on Amazon, right on time for your new year’s workout regimen.

RELATED: Save $150 today, hit gym goals tomorrow — Bowflex adjustable dumbbells are on sale

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If it’s any testament to its power and efficiency, 10,000 of these compact exercise machines have been purchased in the last month alone. Over 25,000 customers have left reviews, and many are alleging that the LifePro Vibration Plate reduces pain, improves strength, and even shakes some weight off.

“I am a ‘very mature’ young lady and find it challenging to find a gym I like. When I saw this advertised, I knew I had to have it!” one customer shared. “I can balance on it, jiggle on it, massage on it, and do exercises on it. I am losing all that jiggly stuff that is hard to get rid of when ‘mature.’ Try this machine. It is so worth it!”

If you’ve been curious about vibration plate technology, now is the time to try it out without breaking the bank (or scale)!

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According to LifePro, the benefits you’ll get from your vibration platform go far beyond building muscle. With consistent use and a speed range from 1 to 99, the LifePro Vibration Plate can boost metabolism, lymphatic drainage, and improve circulation, which can also help burn unwanted fat and suppress stress levels (especially helpful around the holidays). The set comes with resistance bands, a remote, and access to free online workout videos to get you started. It’s also placed on wheels, which makes it easy to transport and tuck away when you have company over.



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