I’m always looking for simple yet challenging new ways to get exercise. In fact, I recently surprised my colleagues by wearing my weight vest at the office.
But if that understandably doesn’t work for you, I’ve discovered a great form of exercise to introduce you to that helps build bone in just 22 minutes a day. It’s called Essentrics and almost anyone can do it.
Essentics is an exercise technique that features a full body workout with dynamic strengthening and stretching exercises. It includes movements from ballet, Pilates, tai chi, and yoga that are designed to lengthen and stretch your muscles, relieve the pressure on your joints and nourish your bones. You may recognize Essentrics and its creator, the best-selling author Miranda Esmonde-White, from the long running show Classical Stretch on PBS TV.
I do one of Miranda’s routines several mornings a week and I love that I feel more flexible and “open” after doing them. These exercises definitely help me maintain strength and increase muscle tone. Also, doing them on a regular basis helps me control that unwanted “belly fat” — which I really appreciate.
Another reason I like Essentrics exercises is that almost any woman can do them. In our recent survey, many of you asked about specific exercise options for those of us with painful knees, achy joints and other limitations on movement. Miranda’s Classic Stretch exercises are mindful, gentle and can be adapted to suit most everyone. You go at your own pace and never over-stress the muscles or joints.
Of course, you should always check with your healthcare practitioner before beginning any exercise program if you have special health concerns.
Here’s more about Essentrics and Classical Stretch from a recent conversation with Miranda who explains how Essentrics helps to build bone and muscle. The video I use, Classical Stretch 8, is available for you to try in our Shop.