Fitness & Exercise

Fitness for Couch Potatoes

Technique Tips

Finally, says Jeff Ball, author of Get Fit While You Sit, remember that even workouts at home need to be done properly. He offers these guidelines to help you get the most out of your TV workout:

• If something hurts any part of your body, STOP. You may need to adjust your form to eliminate the problem. If that doesn't work, try a different exercise.
• Remember to breathe at all times. Holding your breath makes exercising more difficult and could even result in injury.
• Practice each movement before a mirror before you start.
• Be aware of your spinal position, and keep your neck in a neutral position.
• Try to keep muscles that you're not trying to work relaxed. For example, if you are doing a leg lift, it does no good to contract the muscles of your neck.
• Do all exercises in a slow, controlled fashion.
• Choose a sturdy chair with adequate back support.

Now, where did I put that TV Guide?