Whether it's a trip up the Pan-American Highway or a drive on Route 66, road trips can be a lot of fun. However, long car trips can be tough on your body creating cramps, stiff necks, and even tiredness, if you don't manage to get a bit of movement in your day. If you want to get your blood pumping, then try these on for size!
Squeeze your glutes
Some isometric exercises such as stretching and tightening can be done sitting right in the seat. Try squeezing your glutes together as hard as possible and hold for 10 seconds. Release and repeat. If you want to increase the difficulty level, place a pillow or other soft object between your thighs and squeeze some more.
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Pack a jump rope
A mini jump rope workout is great when you stop for gas or food. It only takes a couple of minutes to feel like you have done a solid workout. Failing that, jumping jacks are an excellent alternative. As soon as the car pulls over, get out and stretch, and then jump like no one is watching!
Stretch upwards
It is so easy to relax and slouch back into the car seat, particularly if you are not the driver. Stretching, whether in the car or out, can combat any stiffness, and help ease the aches and pains that could follow. Lace your fingers together and extend upward. Then try rounding your back out and stretch forward to feel the movement in your spine.
Contract your abdomen
Another in-the-car exercise is to pull your stomach in toward your spine and hold your abdomen tight while breathing. Hold for 30 seconds if possible. Now repeat twice more to give your abdominal area a good workout.
Raise your toes
If you are not the driver of the car, then this mini calf and toe workout will do wonders for your legs. Raise your heels while putting the weight in the balls of your feet. Contract your calves and rock back on your heels to stretch those shins. Repeat 9 more times to complete a set. Aim for at least three sets of 10 repetitions if you can.
Simple marching steps
While walking is good, marching is even better. Lift your knees as high as you can - and march; the faster the better. You don't need a large space to get your body moving. Start with two minutes on the first break and increase the length with every stop you make.
Forward Lunge
Forward lunges will work your hamstrings and glutes quite nicely. While you are waiting for the tank to fill or the restaurant check to come, step forward with one leg and lower your body to 90 degrees at both knees. Try to keep the weight on your heels. Push back up and repeat ten more times. Then repeat on the other leg.
Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers: