Household items can be used for exercise

After many home visits with seniors who have limited means of transportation and still need to get some exercise with little to no gym equipment, here are a few helpful tips in using household items to help you get the exercise you need –so let’s get moving!! Do 12-15 reps in a set, increasing to 2 or 3 sets (once consulted with your physician)

Before starting any kind of exercise, please seek authorization from your physician

Bungee Cord Bicep Curl: This makes an excellent resistance band First step on the center of the cord, holding an end in each hand. With palms facing up, raise your arms for a bicep curl.

Step Stool Step Ups: Looking to get your rear in gear? Step Up, balance on the step, then step down. Do lunges with your back foot raised on stool.

Broomstick Curls: Used as barbellsadd weighted bags or even bags of rice (laying bags on top and end of the broomstick) use for a set or two of bicep curls.

Towel Stretches: Stretching is key before and after a workout. Lye on the floor, loop a towel behind your knee or ankle. Holding at both ends, slowly stretch the leg towards your chest. Hold 10 seconds and repeat.

Soup Can Arm Raises: Grab 2 cans from your pantry and holding one in each hand, perform lateral raises. Feel the need to add more weight, place 2 cans in one tube sock for added resistance.

Milk Jug Dumbbells: Fill a jug with water for the equivalent of an 8-pound dumbbell. Filling it with sand equals 13 pounds. Complete any exercise you would typically do with a dumbbell. Just remember to secure the lid before you begin.

Counter Top Push Ups: Push Ups can be done anytime and anywhere. Try a few every morning using your bathroom or kitchen counter.

Stair Sprints: If you have them, make use of them. Walk up and down every step, then alternate going up every step and skipping a step. Your heart and legs will get a nice workout