Gardening goodness - how to exercise while gardening?

A new study suggests gardening gives you a zest for life and can even make you feel younger. Here are some tips for toning your physique while also tending to the plants.


For gardening and yard work to actually provide a beneficial workout, you must garden for at least 30 minutes a day.
To reap the maximum benefits use as little machinery as possible. It might take a little bit longer, but using manuel clippers, trimmers and a push lawnmower could save a trip to the gym.
Work a steady constant speed to keep heart rate up at a set level.
Change positions every ten minutes so move from pruning to weeding or try and alternate which hands you use.
Work such as raking and carrying leaves can tone the upper arms and increase flexibilty and strength. You can expend as much effort raking the lawn as you would during a leisurely bicycle ride.
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