When we think of exercise, walking, running, yoga and Pilates springs to mind. However, gardening is one of the best forms of exercise you can get. Have you heard people comment on the fact that their muscles hurt in places they never even knew existed? Gardening is a great all-around workout for the body regardless of your age. In fact, National Gardening Exercise Day is celebrated on the 6 June to encourage everyone to get outdoors and exercise in the garden. When you think about all the things you do in the garden including raking, lifting, planting, carrying, digging, watering, pulling - then it’s not difficult to see the great things you are doing for your body, not to mention the environment.
As with any exercise, it is always important to stretch a little before you start, particularly if you are not used to working some of those muscles in question. It will ensure that you don’t strain your back and help to prevent injuries and muscle aches and soreness.
Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers:
- To reach our AZ Clinics, call 602-374-7226 (2 Clinics in Mesa and Phoenix)
- To reach our NM Clinics, call 505-888-9575 (3 Clinics in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe) or 575-222-4994 (Las Cruces)
- To reach our TX Clinic, call 214-296-0269 (Dallas)
- Or visit us online to schedule an appointment: http://fitmedicalweightloss.com/
Exercising in such a beautiful surrounding is a great way to take your mind off the physical effort. In fact, you may not notice how much work your body did until after you have finished, or even the next day. Gardening is great for your overall flexibility and strength, and exercising outdoors can do your wonders for your mood and overall health. It can burn calories, lower your risk of diabetes, decrease the risk of high blood pressure and even benefit bone density which is great for those with osteoporosis.
Plan your days so that you are doing something in the garden each day. Mix up the activities, so you aren’t straining the same part of your body during each period of gardening. Start with something easy and mix it up with moderate tasks, building up to more strenuous activity over time. Try to aim for approximately 30 minutes of gardening time to benefit your body – perhaps plan for 2 or 3 tasks in that time to prevent too much repetitive movement. Use a soft knee pad if you are not used to kneeling on the ground.
Exercise such as gardening is ideal to add to your regular exercise routine. While walking, and going to the gym benefit your body, gardening can become a creative outlet, even a rewarding hobby. It can be very relaxing after a stressful day, particularly when the sun is shining and the birds are singing.
If you are unsure about what to plant, or even when, then you may find this planting zone guide helpful. Not only do you want to see a fitter and healthier body, but you also want to aim for happy and healthy plants.
Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers: