Don’t let a vacation get you out of shape

You’re idea of a vacation was hanging out at the beach, swimming in the ocean, lying on the sand and, in general, enjoying the sun. Well as always, I have a great solution for you.

I call it the Castaway Workout. Remember when Tom Hanks (or any of the many other shipwrecked slobs in the movies) swims his last stroke out of the water, crawls up the beach, and runs like Ben Johnston to the little pool of fresh water dying of thirst.

Well, the workout is somewhat reminiscent of that scenario.

First, jump into the water and gently swim around for three to five minutes to warm up your muscles. Then come out and stretch your legs and back. Check out the link below for some great stretching ideas: orgs.jmu.edu

It would be a great idea to get yourself a pair of water shoes; those wispy running shoes that look like a cross between a running shoe and a ballet slipper.

Now here’s the plan for your Castaway Workout. Run at half speed down the beach about 50 metres, then turn into the water and swim out about 10 metres, then down towards your starting point. Stand up in the water when you can reach the ground and run through the water until you hit the beach. Drop and do 10 to 20 push ups. Get up and run down the beach again, this time at full speed and repeat the whole procedure five times (or more if you can).

When you get back to your towel, work in about six different ab exercises, followed by a light stretch to cool down.

Now relax and enjoy the beach.

Need some help with staying fit? Feel free to contact me.

Steve Frischman is president of Power Co. Fitness, 245 K/M St John's Blvd., Pointe Claire. For more information, call 514-674-0822 or check www.powercofitness.com.