Columbia Physical Therapy Prepares for the Super Bowl

Physical Therapists from Columbia Physical Therapy say that you can cheer your team to victory and exercise your muscles without ever having to take your eyes off the TV. Super Bowl weekend is the time for fans to relax, have fun, and cheer on their favorite teams. But physical therapists want to remind you not to neglect your own need for exercise while you're watching "the big game."

While you and your team are up against the wall, why not work the muscles in the front of your thighs, hips, back, and abs?

Stand on a non-skid surface with your back against the wall and your feet about 2 feet away from the wall. Keep your feet about 6"-8" apart. Inhale as you keep your stomach in and head forward.

Slowly slide your back down the wall to a near sitting position. It is important to be sure that, as you slide down, your knees are behind or directly over your ankles. Exhale as you lower your body. Hold for 5-10 seconds, breathing evenly. Return slowly to start.

COUCH POTATO KICK-Off - Lateral leg lift

Kick off with your team and work the muscles in your hips and buttocks, This exercise can also be done with ankle weights. You'll need to move from the couch to the floor for this one.

Lie on your side with a pillow under your head. Keeping your stomach tight, bend your bottom knee toward your chest and extend your top leg out straight. Inhale.

Slowly lift your top leg about 6 inches off of the floor. Exhale as you lift. Hold for 5-10 seconds breathing evenly. Do not hold if you're using weights.

The staff at Columbia Physical Therapy supports the recommendation that moderate-intensity physical activity done five or more times per week has substantial health benefits to people of all ages. Benefits include reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure as well as helping with weight control and relieving pain. Established in 1987 by Doreen and Bob Frank, Columbia Physical Therapy is located in East Greenbush and in Valatie offering services from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. They are committed to providing competent and compassionate care to the communities they serve and for 17 years have been regular financial supporters of many community groups.

To learn more about Columbia Physical Therapy go to http://www.columbiapt.com or call Doreen Frank @ 286-3990.