Get in Shape with a Playground Swing

FRIDAY, 9 MAY 2008

Karen Goeller, author of the Swing Fitness Books, is offering a swing workout at the Midland Beach playground in Staten Island, NY. This event is set to take place on Tuesday, May 20, at 6pm. This will give the people on Staten Island a chance to learn the exercises performed with a playground swing safely. Goeller will hold similar events on NJ. There is no fee, but space is limited. Please contact the author at 888-496-8749 to sign up.

Goeller expects the participants in this group to range from those who have not exercised in a very long time to those already in top shape looking for something different. Although the participants will be at different fitness levels, the swing workout will still be productive for all because the exercise can be modified according to each individual's fitness level.

For example, the pull up can be performed above the swing for advanced participants or beneath the swing in a modified position for beginners. The person performing the modified pull up stands at a 45 degree angle holding the swing as he or she pulls his or her chest toward the swing. The person performing the modified pull up is only pulling a portion of his or her weight.

All of the participants from a recent event in NJ had positive feedback. The most common comment received by Goeller was, "Great workout!" A former professional football player, a martial artist, and many beginners stated they planned to continue these workouts on their own.

The Staten Island workout will be conducted as a group class which is different from an individual training session. There is often great motivation, energy, and fun with group exercise. Group classes are very productive because the people with exercise backgrounds most often help those just starting to exercise.

There are a few safety tips everyone should keep in mind with swing set fitness. Hold the chains securely and make sure you are comfortable before you move. Make sure you do not place your hands on glass or animal droppings. Make sure you are well-hydrated, and most importantly, stop if you feel dizzy, nauseous, injured, or ill. Always check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.

In swing set fitness, there are leg exercises, chest exercises, and core exercises, among many others. Karen Goeller, author and trainer, may ask the participants to perform core exercises such as flutter kicks and knee lifts or leg exercises such as squats or step ups.

This class will last for 30-60 minutes, but many workouts can be as short as 15 minutes. The short workouts are perfect for anyone with a tight schedule. The benefits of this form of training are not only that the participant can improve muscle tone or lose weight, but they can exercise outdoors at the local playground. Performing a workout at a playground is very inexpensive and often rejuvenating. There is no need to purchase expensive fitness equipment and those with children can exercise while their children play. Better yet, they can exercise with their children.

It is expected that swing set fitness will become more popular as the summer weather approaches. This training is unique, enjoyable, and very convenient for many people. It is the type of exercise that may be enjoyed as a family activity or social event with friends.

The authors, Karen Goeller and Brian Dowd, will continue to hold additional events throughout the year. They will be available to answer questions, sign books, and give personal training sessions upon request. For more information, please visit www.SwingSetFitness.com or call 888-496-8749.