new client cleared for activity, but on multiple heart diabetes meds. Were taking”baby steps” creative ideas for outdoor track?
Hello Laura Partridge,
Yes, start out slowly and being outdoors does wonders for the mind, soul and body.
Something everyone loves is boxing, which gets all in a great mood. Do you have portable pads to hold up for someone to “box”? Just be careful and start with very short bouts since upper body moves will work the heart quickly; but, this is so much fun for most people, to get out their frustrations. You will be able to add more boxing and longer boxing as the person improves.
How about stepping in and out of ladder equipment for drills? You could use that as balance work and dance steps, also. Use your imagination to use different track lines or surfaces for steps, bounces, etc.
I would use a heart monitor and show them how to stay in their range and pay attention to how the body feels at those numbers. That is a great way to engage the client more and help the time pass more enjoyably.
You could also have them record their own workout in a notebook to keep which is great for noting topics and questions for your next session discussion.
I hope this helps you two.
Take care,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.
Hello everyone. I have been very busy these last…wow, four months. Neglecting my hobbies, but keeping up my workouts. Anyway, this is my first answer in four months. I will try not to be too preachy.
Inside or outside, new clients need to begin with the foundation movements of their bodies. You can work the movements individually at the joints initially as the workout and as assessment of mobility. Motion and/or resistance can be added to the movements with proper progression. Anyone not sure of what I mean by foundation movements or progession can contact me through my IDEA profile or email [email protected]com . And check out my website, www.hawaiifitnessacademy.com .
Jumping directly into resistance can be safe, but the more deconditioned the client, the more risk in progressing too soon. And not having assessed mobility is really not very sound practice. I start everyone with foundation movements, even my elite athletes. If no one has checked their movements in the past, there is a very good chance they have movement pattern issues that could be causing numerous problems. Even if no pain/discomfort has manifested yet, poor biomechanics will catch up to everyone eventually. And poor posture is a definite red flag for poor mobility at all joints. Loading poor mobility is essentially loading poor form/execution. Think about.
You’ve received some very good suggestions so far.
Do you have to use a track? My thought would be that perhaps you can find a good walking path in a nice park or forest, paved but with plenty of greenery and fresh air. Especially if there is one with little hills and valleys. Since she is living with depression, this venue might be more refreshing than a track. Just a thought, since you’re meeting her outside anyway… You could alternate between walking and band work.