Getting that Cardio!
Well, I'll be honest. Most days this picture sums up my view on exercise....
But today, on this beautiful Monday morning, I felt energized and motivated to work off all those weekend calories that I enjoyed! So let me tell you about one of the ways I burn those extra calories!
If I haven't mentioned it before, I have some of the best friends that exist. Two such friends, Justin and Lindsay Small, just happen to own a fabulous gym 2 minutes from my house! Anytime Fitness in Haughton, Louisiana is the BEST! Check out their Facebook page!
Since I can't walk on a treadmill or climb a stairclimber, you may be trying to figure out how exactly I am planning to burn my calories with cardio....well, this is how. It's called a hand cycle. It's basically a bicycle that has the pedals up high so you can turn them with your arms. Here's a picture!
This hand cycle machine can be used two ways. The user can either sit on the seat that's shown in this picture OR you can take the seat off and pull your wheelchair directly up to the pedals! How cool is that? So depending on your disability or comfort level, you can easily find a way to work this into your current workout!
When I first started using the hand cycle, I could barely go 5 minutes without being completely exhausted. But as I began to use it more, I was able to gradually add time. It really does a great job getting my heart pumping, sweat pouring, and arms burning! Most of the time I go for about 30 minutes which usually means 5 miles. Its a great exercise and I love that anyone can use it. So the next time you see one, jump on it and check it out!
Don't judge. This was during the 7 o'clock hour this morning and I was a sweaty mess! But I wanted to show you how I pull my chair up along side the machine. I also have my water there because I drink A LOT of water while I work out! (click it to see the full picture)
Don't forget if you have any questions, feel free to email me at suzmarye@live.com!