This week is another in the series of “gliding” exercises. These are exercises done while having towels, socks, or other item to help your feet glide on the floor. For those exercising on a carpeted surface, you can use fitness sliders (shown below). Exercises done in this manner challenge the transverse abdominis- muscles deep in your core that wrap around your spine. Working these muscles helps improve stability which is important for fitness as well as everyday activities.
This week’s exercise is a reverse lunge. If you find that you are a bit unstable at first, don’t hesitate to hold a chair or countertop until you are more accustomed to the movement.
- Start by standing upright, with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Have a glider or a small towel under one foot.
- With your hands on your hips (or holding a stable surface), slide the foot with the glider or towel backwards, bringing your hips down.
- Slide the foot back towards the starting position. As you do this, ground yourself by pressing your legs downwards, as though you’re trying to step into the floor.
- While completing the movement, ensure that you’re not twisting the stationary leg as you move downward. Again, if you’re feeling unsteady, use something to provide support.
- Complete 12-15 reps on each side for one set. Work towards 2-3 sets.
Please speak to your provider before starting any new exercise regimen.
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