I suppose it's appropriate, during this showcase of absurdly fit and beautiful bodies via the Olympic Games, that I allow their dedication and discipline to move my body into motion. Since I've been underemployed, I've been able to work out a lot more consistently than I used to. But as much as the additional cardio from running helped boost my energy levels, it has killed my left knee. I'm unsure as to what's wrong with it, except for that it hurts when I run even half a mile. Since I have self-funded health insurance (read super high deductible), I've decided to give it a rest for a week. Meanwhile, I've turned to Nike Training Club to supplement my workout. And this iPhone / iPad app is officially kicking my ass..
If you haven't looked into it before but are looking for an easy-to-use and FREE personal trainer with minimal investment as far as equipment, this is the app for you. Workouts are designed like a circuit training workout, where you spend a minute or two on different cardio, toning or strength exercises. Better yet, there are gorgeously skinny and tone models on video if you are unclear as to how to do a Plank Row Burpee or Tricep Pushup to Frogger. You can sync your workout play list to the workout (even spotify!). The NTC app features bonus workouts by Hope Solo, Shawn Johnson, Allyson Felix so you can huff and puff alongside your favourite US Olympian, not to mention admire the fact that this is just a portion of their regular work out - if that.
So what is really kicking my ass during the workouts? Gotta be the side planks and all the squats and squat jumps. There's no way those models with their toothpick legs do squats continuously for two minutes. They'd have monster thunder thighs if they did right (say yes, it'll make me feel so much better)?
Pictures via
Nike
good for you!! hope your knee is better soon!
ReplyDeleteNike has a lot of amazing apps actually - this looks great too, thanks for the recommendation!
ReplyDeleteI've heard good things about this app! Mainly that it' KILLER! I'm gonna have to give it a try!
ReplyDeleteYes! There's no way those poor, sickly models even have the strength to do squats.
ReplyDeleteSwimming would be a good way to get cardio work without stressing the knee--after it's feeling better. Or you could sign up for water aerobics classes. You can pretend you're part of a synchronized swimming team!
Sounds like a great app. If ever i feel inspired to workout will have to remember this.
ReplyDeleteWoah, this sounds like such a cool app!! Thanks for sharing Ruth. I'm going to have to try this out, as a switch-up from my usual jog / elliptical routine. :)
ReplyDelete♥ x i x i a | thisisxixia.com
I have a Nike running app on my iPhone but I've never used it. I hope your knee gets better. I once had terrible knee pain and wasn't able to walk anymore. It took 16 hours of physio and two-three months later it was gone and I was able to run again. Get it checked before it's too late. xo
ReplyDeletenice post!
ReplyDeleteSide planks are grueling btu give AMAZING results!!! And I write this as I play hooky from gym today :)
ReplyDeleteThis post makes me feel so lazy because I have been skipping the gym a lot lately. I am all about spinning classes, love them. Hope your knee gets better soon!
ReplyDelete2 minutes straight of squats? Ouch! I guess I have been getting fit because of the Olympics too (my bus route to work has been cancelled so I have been walking/running)! I'm not usually a fan of apps but this one sounds really fun... checking it out now!
ReplyDeleteUGH! I feel your pain--literally. I inherited my dad's bad knees so I have to be super careful. And the Nike app sounds interesting. I'm looking for one that tracks distance for walking--although, I'm a little worried that I'm only burning like 9 calories and it's killing me off. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm too busy giggling over "thunder thighs" to contribute anything meaningful to the conversation. I used to work out, but at the time I was unemployed and my ex was nice enough to get us a gym membership for Christmas, so it gave me something to do. I loved doing circuit workouts, I feel like it did so much more than just sticking to one machine. Now I want to get back in shape!
ReplyDeleteso so pretty! love this :)
ReplyDeletexx
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I have bad knees AND bad feet. It's awful =-( I feel your pain!
ReplyDeleteOh wow that app looks awesome! I should use it to get my butt back into gear.
ReplyDeleteI was using myfitness for a while which tracked my running and told me when to go hard, slow down or walk. it's pretty awesome
You know, I have this app but have never used it. I think I'll give it another look now though.
ReplyDeleteI've read about this app on Fast Company before, and thought it was really interesting. I usually don't carry a phone or anything when I work out, but do have a Nike ID that's a part of my running shoes. I would definitely be interested in learning what types of workout would enhance my training, and new tips!
ReplyDeleteHope you knee feels better soon, Rooth. And thanks for sharing this....might give it a try....someday....
ReplyDeleteYou may try Pilates or the bar method... They are low impact and really good for you because they don't mess up with you joints
ReplyDelete