I’m often asked what my favorite exercises are. To be honest, I love them all. I’m not even kidding! 😉 However, when I only have a short amount of time I pick the following 3 exercises; kettlebell swings, deadlifts and last but definitely not least burpees. With these 3 exercises you work every muscle in your body including one of your most important muscles, your heart!
Where to start? That is often the hardest part. If you’ve never worked-out before there are modifications to each of these exercises. On the other hand, if you are an athlete or workout often you can make each of these harder by adding more weight, more reps or tack on another set or two. You have to begin with the level you are at now and work up to doing more and heavier weights. If you jump right in you might be so sore that you can’t move for a week or worse, you can possibly injure yourself. Have patience, use good form and make sure you have your breathing correct. These three things are very important! But, most of all be thankful for every rep you get. Getting to exercise is a gift!
Over the next 3 weeks we will go over each exercise. Including the benefits, how to correctly perform them and the choices you have with each exercise.
Let’s begin this week with burpees. Most people have a love/hate relationship with them! They are fantastic for getting your heart rate up, they work nearly every muscle in your body and if you crank up your favorite song they can be fun!
In a traditional burpee you begin standing then hinge at the hips placing the hands on the floor jumping both feet back, perform a push up (keep the elbows in a bit as to not strain the shoulders), then, jump both feet back towards the hands and jump up.
If you are just beginning or have any joint issues try stepping back one foot at a time coming to a plank on your knees, then, step the feet back up to the hands avoiding the jump at the end.
As you advance if you’d like to add in a jump or push up on the knees or toes go for it. Just remember to listen to your body, being mindful of what’s best for it!
Disclaimer! I do not enjoy being the center of attention, or being in front of a camera. However, I love helping others get fit and live a healthy life, with that being said I put together videos for the next 3 weeks so we can work on being healthy together! Having a support group is so very helpful, as is hearing an encouraging voice. I hope this helps you on your journey! With that being said, here is a video of the burpee. Remember, have fun and go at your pace!!
Enjoy!
XOXO~
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