Modified push-ups build stamina

Eric Newman (left), 17, of Clinton and personal trainer Lisa Newman use a NRG Ball to perform push-ups

The FUN cardio enhances creativity and conditions bodies to become stronger and healthier. Cardio-sport activities like boxing spark the fun of athletics into a non-competitive approach to fitness. The No. 1 goal is to get kids and teens moving. Using the boxing shield with the boxing gloves will condition the upper body muscles. Boxing or kick boxing builds confidence and coordination with the eyes, hands and feet.

The NRG ball push-ups involve the NRG training ball and bar. The NRG training system creates an innovative balancing challenge to the basic push-up while enhancing the overall strength of the upper body.

Plan: Kneel down. Place a fitness mat under your knees for comfort. You can start with the modified push-ups to build strength and stamina before progressing to the military push-up. Boys and girls can advance to the military push-up position by straightening their legs when they can perform 2 sets of 10 repetitions modified correctly. The hands should grip the bars shoulder-width apart to ensure equal balance of the body. Inhale and lower your chest down to the ball. Exhale when pushing your body up to the start ing position, either modified or military. Continue the lowering phase and push-up phase for 1-2 sets of 7-10 repetitions to develop fitness confidence and conditioning with this exercise.

Perfit trainer's tip: Keep your head in a neutral position with your chin slightly up to help balance and prevent neck strain. The FUNctional Fitness 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 age. Adults can also incorporate these FUNctional Fitness exercises to add variety to their routines.

Variations: The NRG ball training system is available in various sizes from 5, 7 and 9 pounds, which includes the handles. The price range varies with the weight from $60-$80.

Lisa Newman, a certified personal fitness trainer, consultant and exercise physiologist, owns Perfit Inc. E-mail questions to perfitlisanewman@aol.com.