Any virtual workout buddies out there?

**Melly** · 04-14-2014, 09:04 AM

Oh, this is a great idea!

I try to get at least 45 minutes of cardio in each day, but I've recently started a strength training program that I do every other day on top of that. Working great so far, I can definitely feel the difference when I have to help move or brace my patients.

Nikki, let me know how your squats and planking go. When I first started doing squats, I thought I was going to die, I was sooo sore! But it goes away (give it time) and keeps getting easier and easier...until you ramp it up and start using weights! :P The plank is by far the best core exercise I've ever done. I'll never do another crunch or sit-up. You'll be a convert soon, too, once your abs get all crazy toned.

**pberggren1** · 04-14-2014, 09:06 AM

What exactly is planking?

**Melly** · 04-14-2014, 10:50 AM

The plank is a really awesome exercise for your abs and core. You basically get into a sort of modified push-up position, and then hold yourself static for as long as you can.

When you first start doing this, you might not be able to hold it for very long. Mine was something like 30 seconds. It starts getting easier pretty quickly, though. I also started working out my shoulders and arms, and I think that definitely helps you hold the plank for a bit longer, since it seemed like those areas started to fatigue sooner than my abs!

Here's a good video: Plank Exercise Guide and Video

That site is an awesome resource if you want to start strength training.

**NikkiNicole** · 04-14-2014, 02:56 PM

Today was my rest day from squats. I'll start again with 40 tomorrow, and I was at 35 seconds planking. I missed a couple days because of my crazy work schedule ... and then running around at home. I also missed a Zumba class this morning. I am having a particularly bad day. Only walked 0.72 today ... not sure I'll be able to get to my class tomorrow morning but we will see how I feel when I wake up. It's SO early in the morning and I get off at 1am.

**pberggren1** · 04-14-2014, 03:44 PM

I used to go to Zumba class to watch the girls.....

**Alysia** · 04-15-2014, 01:07 AM

Originally Posted by Melly

The plank is a really awesome exercise for your abs and core. You basically get into a sort of modified push-up position, and then hold yourself static for as long as you can.

When you first start doing this, you might not be able to hold it for very long. Mine was something like 30 seconds. It starts getting easier pretty quickly, though. I also started working out my shoulders and arms, and I think that definitely helps you hold the plank for a bit longer, since it seemed like those areas started to fatigue sooner than my abs!

Here's a good video: Plank Exercise Guide and Video

That site is an awesome resource if you want to start strength training.

Thank for the info, Melly

reminds me of the following exercise

**NikkiNicole** · 04-15-2014, 08:52 AM

40 squats, 35 second plank, and a 1.30 mile walk. I completely slept through the class at the gym this morning. Oops, but when I woke up, I'd slept for 8 hours and felt well rested. However, the fatigue monster is back with a VENGEANCE. I haven't felt this fatigued since I was doing my radiation for cancer. Holy cow.

**Pete** · 05-29-2014, 12:27 PM

I've been derelict in both my fitness efforts and reporting. Now that the weather in Ohio finally has gotten summerlike, I have spent much of the past several weeks working in the flower gardens. This has involved a lot of lifting and digging. I have also learned that a 67-yo can't do what he did before wegs. So, I work more slowly. I did a 2.5 mile walk yesterday and felt ok afterward. Weight is holding steady at 183 lbs.

Tomorrow, it's off to the golf course, weather permitting. Otherwise, I'll wait until Friday. Plan to walk 9 on the "executive" course - par 30.