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Building Up a Durable and Functional Body to Parent Better

A strong body is helpful for parenting.  I have chronic back issues due to pregnancy, birthing and child rearing.  If someone talked to me about the importance of having a strong core when having a child, these issues may have been prevented.  So here it is:  Take care of your body.  As a parent, you will want an able body.  When they are young, you'll need to schlep them around: into their car seats, carrying, lifting...  And when they are older, you'll want to do things with them:  hiking, sports, traveling.. Without a strong core and body, the more likely you may hurt yourself.  The sooner you begin to take care for yourself in this way, the happier you will be.  Here's a place to start.  It's only seven minutes (in total, it's actually nine minutes-- everyone has 9 minutes!).

Seven Minute Scientific Workout- New York Times

Here's one youtube version.  There are many more

Fatherly, the parenting blog, has an article called Seven Essentials for Building A Strong Core.  The author writes: (Their exercises are good for moms too.)

Once you become a dad, exercises that focus on functionality and durability should supersede traditional strength training.... And a strong core is one of the most important components of a useful, durable body.

Many read “core” and think crunches. But your core refers to the chain of muscles that runs from your inner thighs to your upper back. Yes, it includes your abs, but also your hamstrings, hip abductors, butt, lats, and traps. These are the muscles that, among other things, help you hinge, bend, pivot, lean, and balance better. And they’re the ones you use every day.

Class Announcement
Finals week/potluck/last Class begins this Wednesday, May 17 through Tuesday, May 23.

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