Exercise Anywhere

A few exercises you can get in no matter where you find yourself.

It happens to everyone. You're in a rush to get to the gym when life takes over and you simply can't make it to your workout. Now what? If you keep your eyes open, you'll find all sorts of opportunities to exercise no matter where you are.

Sound like something that would benefit you? Read on to learn about seven simple exercises that will keep the blood flowing through your body when life keeps you from your favorite exercise equipment.

Kegels

These may not improve your visible physique, but kegels are essential to your good health. And they're not just for women. To perform kegels, tighten the muscles that stop your flow of urine and hold for a few seconds. Relax and repeat, and you'll reduce your likelihood of accidental urine leakage. It may not seem glamorous, but it increases your confidence in public, and as Jack Palance said, "Confidence is very sexy." Do this one anywhere and any time you're sitting down.

30-Minute Minimum. Even when you can't get to the gym, aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day for optimal health.

Calf Raises

Standing in the grocery line can be a drag. Keep your head up by doing a few sets of calf raises. Stay balanced by holding your cart and then raise yourself up on your toes. Once you hit the peak of your lift, hold for a second and return to the ground. Repeat as many times as you can. And if you're afraid you look strange, pretend to be looking for someone in the distance every time you go up.

Knee Dips

Newbies will want to raise one foot about half a foot from the ground, while balancing on the other leg. Bend at the knee until your lifted foot almost hits the ground. Do this 10 to 20 times and repeat with the other leg in the air. Old timers should lift and bend one leg until the shin is parallel to the ground. Using the same motion as with the partial knee dip, go down until your raised leg almost hits the ground. Perform 10 to 20 reps and repeat with the other leg lifted.

Doorframe Push

Find a sturdy doorframe and stand in it. Place the back of your right forearm on the right side of the frame and the back of your left forearm on the left. Then push out as if trying to make the doorframe fall apart. Do this for 10 to 20 seconds, relax, and repeat.

Side Bends

Grab a water bottle or large phone book with both hands extended over your head. Keeping your arms straight, bend your waist to the left, tightening your abdominal muscles. Bend as far as you can and then return to the starting position and repeat to the right side. Shoot for 10 to 15 repetitions.

Stair Climbing

Ever wondered if you could get up the stairs in less time than it takes to wait for the elevator and ride it to your desired floor? There's only one way to find out. Take the stairs! By walking the stairs on your way up and down, you increase your strength and your balance and you may even get there faster.

Breathing

You do it all the time, but concentrating on your breathing and doing it correctly can add to your physical well-being. For exercise-worthy breathing, sit straight up on the edge of a chair with your hands resting on your thighs or knees. Allow your shoulders to relax and look straight forward as you exhale powerfully out of your mouth. Tighten your abs and bend forward to get all the air out of your lungs. Then relax and inhale through your nose, while returning to your upright sitting position. Once your lungs are approximately half full, exhale through your mouth again. Repeat 10 times.