The fastest two minutes of sports is finally fast approaching. The display of athleticism from the beautiful thoroughbreds is exhilarating to watch! These horses train and exude such discipline. They are in such great physical shape which prepares them to race to the finish line with ease.
These horses are not the only ones wanting to be in tip-top shape come Derby time.
Louisvillans come dressed to impress and to show off their southern charm during thisextravagant event; however, with the world just a little different these days, your Derby experience may be the opposite of what you have done in the past.
Whether you are attending a posh house party or attending a backyard BBQ, you will always want to look and feel your best for the Derby.
So what does it take to look your Derby best? Ideally, maintaining a healthy daily lifestyle will keep you confident and feeling energized at the same time.
Take on this challenge!
Change one unhealthy eating habit. Challenge yourself for 1 month and stick to it. For example, substitute a healthy piece of fruit in place of a salty midnight snack. After a month, your body is more apt to make healthier choices in the future.
Along with healthy eating habits, incorporate movement!
Remember to always warm up your body before beginning an exercise routine. An example of a warm up is riding a stationary bike for 5 to 10 minutes.
Knee up to reverse lunge - Front leg bent in lunge position, the other leg behind and bent slightly. Lift your back leg up and bend your knee up to your chest. Hold your knee up for 5 seconds and then extend back into lunge position. Do 10 reps on each leg. This engages your core along with a great leg workout.
Push ups - Push ups can be done on your knees or against a wall for a beginner workout. For a more challenging workout, do them on your feet. Start with 10 reps and work yourself up to 20.
Plank - This can be performed on hands or elbows. Feet on the floor. This is a great isometric core strength exercise that maintains a similar position to a push up. Start with 30 seconds and build up to a 1 minute plank.
Always cool down and stretch after a workout, inhaling and exhaling each breath slowly, holding your stretches for 30 seconds.
Incorporating exercise and healthy choices will get you fit mentally and physically. Your body will be Derby ready!
