Four Ways to Get a Workout While Watching TV
October 26, 2011 – 10:44 pm
By Rebecca Bardelli,
Why not get a workout while you watch TV? After a hard day at work many people, including myself, want to relax and watch television. Break the habit of eating while watching your favorite show and create a new custom. Get into a new routine by working out while watching your favorite program.
#1 Pedal during the program
With a mini pedal exerciser you can pedal during your favorite television program. This compact piece of exercise equipment allows you to sit in the location of your choice, and it is low in cost. I first noticed the mini pedal exerciser when I was at my friend’s house, who is in her 60s. This is a great form of exercise for people of every age.
#2 Lift hand weights while you watch
Hand weights can be used in a seated position while watching TV. Use hand weights that are between 1-pound to 5-pounds to work your biceps, triceps, and shoulders. Perform exercises such as the shoulder press, bicep curl, and overhead triceps extension. Using light weights allows one to perform more sets and is less strenuous. If you don’t have hand weights, try using canned food. Another option is to perform the exercises during the commercials.
#3 Gain flexibility while watching TV
It is easy to stretch your muscles while watching TV. Basic stretches and even some yoga positions can be practiced while watching television. Yoga postures such as the Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) and the Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose) allow you to watch while you work. Instead of flowing from one yoga move to the next, take time to really enjoy each one. Unwind your muscles and your mind at the same time.
#4 Intervals of high intensity during commercial breaks
Enjoy pedaling, hand weights, or yoga during the television show. During the commercials, boost metabolism by adding high intensity intervals such as jump roping or jumping jacks. A modified burpee is another great option. To perform a modified burpee start off in a standing position, and then jump to the ground with your knees bent and touch your hands to the floor. Next, jump into a plank or pushup position. Then, jump back up to your hands with knees bent. End by standing back up. Repeat this several times. When the commercial is over, go back to the lower intensity workout of your choice.
Why not accomplish two things at the same time? Pick one of the four exercises, and give it a try. You have nothing to lose, except maybe a pound or two!
