With a Winter Wonderland as its backdrop and freezing temps, it is the “Core” temperature of these amazing athletes that allows them to mesmerize us with their acrobatic tricks. We watch in awe as snowboarders hit the slopes and then become airborne. We rush to the television set and become part of the rink as we cheer for America’s Figure Skaters combining so much athleticism, style, rhythm, dance and skill! From bobsledding to luge, these extreme sports in extreme temps grab our attention, but also baffle many of us, leaving us wondering, “How did they do that?”
I would have to say, most of us do not have the time to dedicate to train like an Olympian, but we can take some of their basic examples and implement it into our routine. The mind/body connection is of the utmost importance. By that I mean, finding that determination and drive to reach your specific goal. You first have to have a goal and a realistic one at best. I encourage every woman who begins a routine to implement some sort of mind/body aspect to their training. Yoga and Pilates are tremendous disciplines to help you get started perform better in the other aspects of your training. Both focus on breathing and Pilates places a tremendous focus on building up the core muscles. This allows you to work from the inside out and build up not only your strength and endurance, but literally transform you from the inside out.
I’ve said it in previous articles, but I will say it again, consistency is key in achieving results. This does not mean only working out one day a week. This means coming up with a game plan where you’re able to implement some sort of activity at least four times a week. You should also be careful not to over train as rest is important as well. Again, be both specific and realistic in what your overall goal is and how you’re going to get there. It is also important to consult with a professional such as a Personal Trainer to help you achieve your goal.
Nutrition is more than half of your goal achieving efforts. Pay key attention to what you’re putting into your body. You will not function or achieve optimum results if you eat junk food, fast food or overindulge in simple carbohydrates, sugar and alcohol.
Finally, enjoy the wonderful Olympic Games and appreciate the talent, drive, ability and agility of these amazing athletes. While most of us will not take up Curling, use their talent as inspiration for what is both humanly possible and magical!
Joanne Sgro is a Television Fitness Expert, Certified Personal Trainer and Sport Nutritionist. She is Certified in Pilates, Pre-natal/Post-Partum, Yoga and Senior Fitness. She specializes in Weight Loss, Post-Rehab and Post Cancer Training. Joanne's fitness plans and recipes are available globally on her website www.fitnessanswer.com. She resides in the Phoenix, AZ area with her fiancé, where she runs her personal training business, Fitness Answer, LLC.