By Devon Jones, Personal Trainer
NFL Pro Bowl and Heisman Trophy running back Herschel Walker was renowned for a lean, powerful physique that was spectacular even by the standards of professional football players. He credits the beginnings of this physique to a regime of push-ups and sit-ups while watching television as a young teen. He recently claimed on a radio show that he still does 1500 push-ups and 2500 sit ups a day since he has retired from football.
This example of a professional athlete's training method may seem to have little application to recovering couch potatoes just starting an exercise program. The opposite is true. You can take solace in the fact that such results can come from simple body weight exercises requiring no gym and minimal equipment.
Properly performed calisthenics can be done in front of a television and can make a great addition to an exercise program during winter days where getting outside can seem like a chore. With safety and proper program design exercise can be done indoors and can bring great results to couch potatoes and pros alike.
The primary considerations in your new "couch potato workout" should be safety and effectiveness. You may need to move furniture or clutter in order to exercise safely. If you trip over a miniature car or chew toy while doing lunges, your next exercise session may take place in the physical therapist's office.
Also, keep your training goals and fitness level in mind while designing your couch potato exercise program and think of what you are looking for out of your program. Consider whether it is a substitute measure used on days you cannot go to the gym, or if it plays a greater role in building your fitness. Make sure that all of the components of a well-balanced fitness program such as aerobic endurance, strength and flexibility are taken into account.
Remember, the key to a good couch potato program is in performing calisthenics properly. Your usual exercises may need additional modifications in order to be performed correctly indoors.
To review some examples of couch potato workouts and some exciting ways to breathe some new life into your fitness routine, please view my supplementary article.
In conclusion, your couch and living room are all the space you need to exercise on those days you just haven't the time or will to physically come to the gym. However, with a little creativity, planning, and professional advice, you can be the best couch potato possible. Potatoes aren't the worst thing that you could be after-all, they are popular, versatile, and fat-free!
