Vacuum, Sweep, and Wash the car......What a Workout!

It's that time of year again, the time to do a little "Spring Cleaning" around the house.  If you want to burn some extra calories, try brisk vacuuming.  It's sure to raise your heart rate and work some of those dormant abdominal muscles.  Did you know the act of vacuuming is considered a core strengthening exercise when performed properly?  Just make sure when you are vacuuming to hold your stomach muscles tight and breath deep.  Also, as not to injure your back, always lift with your legs when moving heavy items.  

You just finished mowing the lawn and now there's grass all over the sidewalk and driveway!!!  What a perfect opportunity to burn some more calories.  Aside from burning calories, the act of sweeping also works the abs, obliques, shoulders, and biceps.  Remember to hold yourself upright with good posture while sweeping, stay hydrated in hot weather, and wear sunscreen.  You are sure to feel this one the next day!  


Since the warm weather has arrived it's Car Washing time!  Try washing your car, by hand, and you will feel the calories melting away.  I washed my car last week and the next day my arms felt like jello.  I didn't realize how much work it takes to wash, dry, and vacuum my own car.  I think this is a great full body workout.  Your arms get a workout from scrubbing the car up and down, and your legs get a workout from all the squatting and standing repeatedly.  This is also a great way to work on your tan!  Remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

  


Let us know if you have any ideas for creative ways to burn calories!