Linda Vertlieb of FrugalPhillyMom.com is a Lucille Roberts “Makeover Blogger” training at Lucille Roberts Bala Cynwyd. Here’s her most recent update on her progress.
Linda demonstrates "invisible chair" move with trainer Ben.
As much as I love getting out of the house and working out at Lucille Roberts in Bala Cynwyd, being a busy mom doesn’t make it easy. It wasn’t until I started working out at Lucille Roberts that I began to look at things in my house a little differently.
For the times I was unable to make it in to the gym, I found that I could apply what I learned during my personal training sessions and in fitness classes right at home. I found that simple things that can be found in everyone’s home could offer me a great workout without any additional equipment.
Here’s what I’ll do on my busy days at home:
Steps – The Step Workouts during fitness classes make a great warm up and cardio. This also is great exercise for my lower body. Apply the same techniques on the bottom step in your home.
Wall – There are two exercises that I love to use my wall for. You’ll want to make sure you do these exercises properly so you don’t injure yourself. First is the invisible chair (See picture). Start by finding a flat wall and sit with your back against it. Make sure your knees don’t pass your toes. Hold the invisible chair for as long as you can.
Next is wall push-ups. This is great because I cannot do regular push-ups. Start facing the wall, arms-length away, feet slightly apart, legs straight (but not locked). Place hands onto the wall, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Keeping your head in neutral position, bend elbows to lower head/chest toward wall, coming as close as you can to it but not touching it; then straighten arms and return to starting position. Also be sure not to lock knees or elbows. Repeat for three sets of 8-10 reps, if you can.
Couch – I like to do my sit-ups and crunches on the floor in my living room. My couch makes a great “assistant” for holding my feet down. I like to tuck my feet under the couch and work out my abs while I’m watching my shows. Talk about multitasking!
Don’t let the day get away from you and keep you from fitting in a great workout. Since you don’t have to really leave the house to get a full workout, this makes a great alternative for the days you’re short on time.
–Linda Vertlieb
