Fitness Matters

Question: It seems like every workout I read about has an exercise called the burpee. What exactly is this exercise and why is it important to do?

Answer: The burpee is most well known for being performed during a boot camp style workout or a sports conditioning team practice. But the burpee exercise is a great move for all levels. If performed correctly, the burpee can be one of the most effective and complete whole body conditioning exercises in your program. In its most simplistic form, the burpee is a 4-step movement that targets the chest, shoulders, arms, core, glutes and legs. This variable impact, high intensity exercise will raise your heart rate, burn calories, and enhance your endurance. From a standing position, squat down and place your hands on the floor. Step or jump your legs back to a high push up position (the start of a push up). Step or jump your feet forward as close to your hands as possible, then stand up and repeat the sequence. Once you have established this sequence, you can add a push up or jump up in the air after you stand up.

Question: With the weather changing, I am going to add outdoor workouts to my weekly regimen. How important is it for me to wear sunglasses while I workout?

Answer: One of the most important reasons behind wearing sunglasses is their ability to provide protection from harmful UV rays. Sunglasses can also help reduce glare on shiny surfaces such as water or playing surfaces, which means less stress and tension in the eyes. Sunglasses also reduce the likelihood of post exercise headaches, as well as potential neck and face strain. Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, lightweight frames, and grippy nose pads and temple ends to help sunglasses stay in place even while sweating.

About the author: Dawn Gilday is the club owner and a Certified Personal Trainer at Anytime Fitness in Uncasville. To submit a question for future articles, please contact the author at uncasvillect@anytimefitness.com.

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