Ellis: Improving Health & Fitness

A PLANK A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTORS AT BAY

A plank is a simple exercise that anyone can do to improve their core strength. This exercise helps you strengthen so many of your muscles, guiding them to work together. Your core muscles are vital to the health of your low back and spine. If you suffer from an achy back or neck, then try doing this exercise to feel better. How to do a plank (If you are unsure about doing this exercise, call us first) 1. Start by lying face down. You may want to put a pillow under your abdomen if it is uncomfortable to lie flat. 2. Bring your elbows underneath you, then gently rise up onto your elbows and knees, so that your abdomen is off the floor. 3. Keep your abdomen tucked gently in so that your body is straight without sagging. 4. Try to hold this for 30 seconds if you can. You may feel your muscles shake a little while doing this, which means they are working! 5. It is important to start off with small increments and build over the course of a week as you become stronger. 6. To advance the plank and make it more difficult, lift your knees off the ground, keeping your body straight. 7. Ideally, you should be able to hold this position for 2 minutes 8. You may have some soreness the next day as you are using muscles that have not been worked that way in a while.

For a healthy spine, keep doing your exercises and remember our physical therapists need to see you for a check-up. You see your dentist every 6 months to keep you teeth and gums healthy. Why not your PT? Your physical therapist is the mechanic for your whole body to keep your spine and extremities moving like they should. Detecting a problem early can lead to a simple treatment solution that can save you a lot of pain, and financial burden down the road. Call us today to speak with your therapist about your problem, before it becomes a PROBLEM.

Call us today at 208-523-8879 to schedule an appointment!

Exercise Essentials Flexibility, strength, and stability are needed to keep you loose and pain-free... Not all exercises are appropriate for every person. Please consult with a healthcare provider before starting.

BRIDGE + ADDUCTOR CONTRACTION (BALL) Lie flat on your back. Bend knees up so that your feet are flat Put a ball between your knees. Push your knees into the ball Lift your hips up in the air to make a bridge. Lower down in a controlled manner. Strengthens Core

Strengthens Calves CALF RAISES

Stand next to a chair, counter or wall. Stand on your tip toes, lifting your heels as high as you can. SLOWLY lower your heels down to the ground. Stand on your tips toes, returning to the start position.

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