All You Need is a Jump Rope

YAY!  You are going on vacation!.... but wait, no gym?!  This is when I start to ask myself, "Can I run everyday for a whole week?"  "What am I going to do for my workout?"  This is where the vacation idea is maybe not quite so appealing.... I know I'm crazy.

We've all had this conversation in our head at one time or another.  Maybe it wasn't due to the opportunity of a vacation (sorry to get your hopes up).  Maybe it was a work trip, staying with friends or family, or just not making the trip to the gym.  Whatever the case, you don't have access to the basic equipment for a fitness guru like yourself. 

Well, for those instances, I have saved the day (or week)!  All you need is a jump rope!  It is cheap, easy to store, and will fit in your suitcase quit nicely.  Plus, it can still provide you with a great workout- and include variety!

P.S. This saved me over the Christmas holiday.

All You Need is a Jump Rope Workout:

Complete each exercise for 1 minute.  Alternate each exercise with 1 minute of jump rope.  Rest time will depend on your fitness level, but rest as little as possible in between exercise.  (suggestion 0-30 seconds)

Circuit #1
Squats
Jump rope
Pushups
Jump rope
Plank knee to elbow
Jump rope
Lunge jumps
Jump rope
Plank to pushup

**Complete 2-3 rounds

Circuit #2
Speed skater hops
Jump rope
Shoulder pushups
Jump rope
flutter kicks
Jump rope
Burpees with a pushup and jump
Jump rope
mountain climbers
Jump rope

**Complete 2-3 rounds

13 Benefits of Strength Training

Happy New Year! 

For one reason or another, there are many people who have not yet embraced weight lifting. I hope a little more encouragement and knowledge will do the trick.  And for those of you who have seen the light, I hope this information will add fuel to your fire!

The benefits of weight lifting are huge!  It’s not all about how you look (although that will improve too), but also how you feel.  The full article is located in the link provided below.  Check out all the reasons strength training should be a key part of your workout routine.

 

1. Muscle Fights Fat

2. Reduce Depression Symptoms

3. Fight Osteoporosis

4. Be Better at Your Sport

5. Improve Mobility

6. Lower Your Diabetes Risk

7. Better Heart Health

8. Better Blood Sugar Control

9. Prevents Back Pain

10. Improved Balance

11. Ladies, It Won't Make You Bulky

12. It Will Make You Mentally Stronger

13. You'll Look Better

Check out the full article here:

http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1008208-13-benefits-weightlifting-one-tells/#slide=2