Think
fast: What’s your favorite type of exercise? If you’re like most people, cardio
is at the top of your list. But focusing too much on cardio while neglecting
core-strengthening exercises can result in weak core muscles and poor
flexibility — and that can increase your chances of getting hurt.
Even those who do conventional weight lifting may be vulnerable to injury,
since this type of exercise tends to isolate muscle groups and neglect those
all-important core muscles.
In his South Beach
Supercharged Fitness Program, Dr. Arthur Agatston, leading preventive
cardiologist and author of The South Beach Diet Supercharged,
emphasizes the importance of functional fitness — core-strengthening
exercises that mimic everyday activities, such as bending, lifting, and
pressing — in addition to cardio conditioning. Here’s more on the
benefits of functional fitness:
-
You’ll
strengthen your core muscles.
Functional exercises require you to use several muscle groups in one fluid
movement. This will strengthen and develop the muscles in the back, abdomen,
pelvis, and hips, and promote stability and flexibility — all
essential for preventing injury and helping you maintain a healthy weight.
-
You’ll
tone your muscles and improve bone density.
Even if you're diligent about cardio workouts, you’ll still need something more
to further improve muscle tone and bone density. Combining a cardio routine
with core training will not only make you stronger but will also help promote
good posture and balance.
-
No
expensive equipment needed!
The best part? The functional exercises featured in the South Beach
Supercharged Fitness Program don't require you to buy fancy, expensive
equipment like balance boards and pulley-type machines to see results. We
recommend the following:
- A bench or a chair without arms
- A mat or thick towel to protect your back and
knees during floor exercises
- Light hand weights (optional)
- An exercise step, also called an aerobic step or a
home-exercise workout step (optional)
See all South Beach Diet Tips.