I freely admit that the main reason I run is the mental health benefits. Running pulls me up when I’m feeling the pull down towards depression. Running takes the edge off when my stress level heads into the stratosphere. Running provides release when I’m about to boil over.
But, I’m really bad about doing anything besides running. I might hit the elliptical on days when I can’t run. I manage to do my chiro subscribed exercises a few times a week. I almost never occasionally hit the weight machines at the gym.
The last few days, though, I’ve gotten some amazing workouts and I haven’t lifted a single weight. I’ve just been active in my everyday life.
On Thursday, as I shared with you, I helped brew. Included in that was raking the spent grain from the mash tun. I raked 3 huge trashcans full of spent grain out. 15+ pound rake, pounds and pounds of grain, above my head (the brewer is at least 6 feet, so things are designed for him, not my 5’3″), arms fully extended. Amazing upper body workout.
On Saturday and Sunday, I raked. And raked. And raked. 100+ year old oak trees make a heck of a lot of leaves.
On Sunday, I also volunteered at Girls on the Run. Now, that might not seem like much, but I came home barely able to lift my arms. Why? Because I was lifting boxes of bananas that were at least 50 pounds. I also held entire cases of water in my arms for girls to grab as they went past. Again, an amazing upper body workout.
I need to do more of this. So, I’m going another challenge: 30 for 60. 30 minutes of activity for 60 days, starting December 1. Won’t you join me? Go visit “Because I can” to sign up.
I love workouts like that! Good for your muscles and you accomplish something.
Aren't "natural" workouts the best!? I raked leaves the other day… I was so sore the day after! lol
Great post! Aside from when I run, I am extremely lazy. I am one of those people who always tries to get the closest parking spot! 🙂 That's great that you are taking on a new challenge!
Nice "unconventional" workouts this weekend! Good luck with the lifting challenge.
Just what I need! I'm in.
Thanks for sharing my challenge!!!!
What about 30 for 365?????
I used to help out at Little Athletics when my kids were younger and that was always a great workout. Try raking a sandpit for 3 hours or doing squats to pick up shotputs, discus or the high jump bar. It always amazed me how sore my muscles could get.
I just found, and really enjoy, your blog! I'm starting up at mommyrunfast.wordpress.com and wondered if i can add you to a blogroll as it comes together? thanks!