What are functional exercises?

Functional exercises are those that simulate everyday movement. People get hurt doing the simplest things like putting boxes into closets, mopping the floor, picking up the kids, etc.

Functional exercises strengthen the muscles we use everyday in order to prevent injury, improve balance by focusing on the core, increase overall functional strength, and have peace of mind while moving.

Four Best Functional Exercises

Week 1

1. Chops (squat and press) and Owl stretch (seated spinal twist)

The dietary focus this first week of the month is: olive oil. If you don't use it, switch. If you use too much of it, cut your normal amount in half. It's good for your heart!

Week 2

2. Torso twist (rotations) and Spinal Twist (lying)

The dietary focus the second week of the month is: fiber in bread. Find the fiber count on the nutritional label and shoot for 5 grams in each slice...I know, I know, that's high. You'll find it soon enough. The next best is 4 grams.

Week 3

3. Push/Pull exercise: Standing Push-up Execute a pushup against the wall. Literally, push yourself away from the wall. After you're comfortable here, graduate to a modified pushup on your knees. Eventually you'll be doing a "military" pushup.

TIP: Place hands in 3 different positions to hit 3 different muscle groups. First fingers up, arms shoulder width---back; second, hands placed wider and fingers pointing 3 and 9:00---chest; third, hands in narrow, fingers point 12:00---triceps.

The dietary focus the third week of the month is: brown rice instead of white rice. White rice has been stripped of its fiber and essential nutrients. It's an easy switch to make, especially if you try Success Brown Rice Boil-in-a-Bag. It takes 10 minutes.

Week 4

4. Balance on one leg for 10 breaths and Crunches

The dietary focus the fourth week of the month is: increase fish consumption. Salmon, mackerel, trout, tuna and others carry Omega 3 and Omega 6. Both benefit the heart.