Pair shoe irons with balance disc
Submitted by sbeason on Tue, 08/12/2008 - 08:31.
Chloe Lacey (left), 16, of Kosciusko and personal trainer Lisa Newman perform balance disc inner thigh crossovers with shoe iron
The functional cardio activities are kid-friendly, innovative, challenging and safe. Using the slide board will simulate skating or roller blading without the outdoor distractions and dangers.
The balance disc creates a fun motor skill challenge while enhancing balance and strength. The shoe irons slide over the shoes to help target and train specific muscles of the lower body. The combination provides versatility and functionality in basic one- or two-legged exercises.
Plan: Slide the shoe irons over your fitness shoes (one size fits all) and secure with the oversized Velcro strap. The shoe irons are adjustable from 1/2 to 3 pounds per foot. Place one foot on top of the balance disc and the other foot on the ground. Inhale and press down on the balance disc while lifting the ground foot off the floor. Exhale and continue to lift the thigh while crossing over the balancing leg. Inhale while lowering the lifted inner thigh to the ground. Exhale to rest and to adjust positioning if needed. Repeat the inner thigh crossover and balance skill for 1-2 sets of 7-10 repetitions to develop fitness confidence and conditioning.
Perfit trainer's tip: This series can be a circuit workout combining the cardiovascular activity (FUN cardio) with the strength conditioning (FUN conditioning). The fitness activities presented in this series are suited for youths ages 7-17. Some of the activities are challenging while others are easier based on your particular age. Adults also can incorporate these FUNctional fitness exercises to add variety to their routines.
Variations: The shoe irons conform to the shape of the foot, not the ankle. Shoe irons cost $36 per pair. The balance disc air-filled version shown costs $23-$28.
Lisa Newman, a certified personal fitness trainer, consultant and exercise physiologist, owns Perfit Inc. E-mail questions to perfitlisanewman@aol.com.
