TAMPA (BLOOM) – As children head back to school, many parents find themselves with the perfect opportunity to refocus on their fitness goals. Lisa Reed, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, recently joined Gayle Guyardo on the nationally syndicated health and wellness show Bloom to share valuable tips on how parents can integrate fitness back into their busy schedules.
One of Reed’s key strategies is the importance of preparation, especially when it comes to healthy eating. “I never leave the house without a bag of healthy snacks,” Reed emphasized. By having nutritious options readily available, parents can significantly reduce the temptation to swing by fast-food restaurants when their children come home from a long day at school, hungry and eager for a snack.
Reed also highlighted the importance of being mindful about clothing choices. On the show, she wore a dress made of fabric with built-in sun protection, ideal for those spontaneous outdoor activities or quick trips to school for a parent-teacher conference. This, she suggests, is a simple yet effective way to stay health-conscious throughout the day.
Another tip Reed offered was the use of wearable fitness technology. She personally uses a smartwatch that tracks her steps, sleep patterns, calorie intake, and more. “It’s like having your own personal coach right on your wrist,” she explained, underscoring how such devices can serve as powerful motivators for staying on track with fitness goals.
To make exercise more accessible, Reed demonstrated a series of easy workouts that can be done right in the kitchen. The first exercise was a side lunge, which requires nothing more than a rag or dish cloth. By placing the cloth under one foot, sliding the leg outward into a single-leg squat, and then dragging it back, parents can target both their legs and abs simultaneously. Reed recommends alternating legs for a balanced workout.
The second exercise was an around-the-world shoulder raise, using a simple water bottle as resistance. With arms extended, Reed guided viewers to raise the bottle above their heads and bring it back down, repeating the motion to engage the shoulders and improve mobility and flexibility.
Finally, Reed introduced a high knee wood chop exercise, again using the water bottle. As you raise your knee, the bottle is brought down towards your hip, alternating sides to engage different muscle groups. This move, she notes, not only strengthens the core but also enhances overall coordination.
Through these practical and effective strategies, Reed offers a roadmap for parents looking to regain their fitness momentum as the school year begins. Whether it’s through meal planning, mindful attire, or incorporating quick exercises into daily routines, her advice makes staying fit both manageable and achievable.
