Whether you are in the part of the world that is entering summer, or that part entering winter. A change of season normally brings with it a change of activity. In the summer it’s out with the tennis racket, golf clubs and sailing gear. In the winter its explosive team field sports, snow skiing and more intense gym training.
Wherever you are, and whatever sporting activities you prefer, one thing is common to us all. We perform better and are more likely to avoid injury if we are fit for the purpose. So I like to use the few weeks around the changing seasons to prepare myself physically for changes in activity.
When we consider entering cold climates, we ensure our cars have anti-freeze and the snow chains are in the boot. We need to take the same precautions with our bodies.
Each activity has its own unique movements, and it doesn’t take much to work out what these are. Golf and tennis both use explosive movements, but only tennis needs higher cardiac endurance fitness. Knowing the fitness requirements for your sport and measuring yourself against those fitness requirements is key to not only your performance but also your prolonged enjoyment.
On the Antiaging-Wellness.com we have a number of body measures and fitness tests that will help give you a start. Remember, check with your medical advisor before you undertake any new physical activity.
A typical testing program includes:
- Cardiac Fitness – Step Test Â
- Flexibility – Trunk and Hip Flexion TestsÂ
- Â Agility – Zigzag Test
- Balance – Standing Balance Test
- Upper Body Strength – Push Up and Bench Press Tests
- Lower Body Strength – Wall Squat Test
- Core Strength – Crunch Test
- Explosive Power – Burst Test Â
A comprehensive fitness test is usually carried out by a Fitness and/or Medical Professional using gym equipments and special measuring equipment. However, there are a number of tests you can carry out at home that give you sufficient accuracy to use effectively in any fitness program. The range of measures includes:
Once you have completed these tests, you are better equipped to design your Fitness Program for the season. Watch for the next blog on designing your own anti-aging fitness program.
Nicola
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