Cape Town - Valentine's Day is right around the corner and we all want to make a good first impression.
The secret lies in self-confidence and the image we project in the first few minutes of meeting someone. So instead of choosing a fragrance, a new outfit or funky hair style, why not consider working on your physical strength and fitness, asks Genevieve van der Vyver, an Adventure Boot Camp franchise owner
Van der Vyver gives her top tips to win his/her heart.
Posture is very important, so stand up straight and keep your shoulders back
How? Strengthen your posture with core work such as plank and superman:
Plank: Lie on your tummy - then prop yourself up on your elbows and toes. Keep your legs straight and try to keep your heels, bum and shoulders in a straight line. If you are attempting this as a beginner, it's best to do it in front of a mirror to ensure correct alignment. Your bum should not be in the air. Ideally your nose should hover in line with your thumbs. Also do not drop your hips - there should be no arching of the back. Keep your tummy sucked in and breathe normally. Try to hold this position as long as possible. As you get stronger, work up to 60-90 seconds and then start practising side planks.
Superman: Lie on your tummy - inhale, suck in belly and tighten glutes and on an exhale, raise arms and legs. Raise only arms if you have any lower back sensitivity. Complete 10-20 reps.
Exercises that require balance such as one leg dead lifts also work the core and stabilising muscles of the legs and teach your body to engage all these muscles together. The stronger your core becomes, the more naturally you will walk erect and the less backache you will experience. It is important to remember to stretch your hamstrings on a daily basis as well to relieve lower back tightness.
Look good in your favourite tight fitting dress or pair of shorts
How? Squats are hands-down the best exercise to firm and lift the glutes which influence how good you look in a tight dress or a pair of shorts. High intensity interval training (HIIT) will help to reduce your overall body fat.
Do lots of plank to keep that tummy flat and walking lunges to firm the thighs.
Relax and engage with your date
How? Yoga in particular will help with your ability to relax, focus and concentrate.
It's popular knowledge that regular yoga helps to keep you calm and positive but attentive.
All forms of exercise will help you to de-stress in the long run, for instance outdoor fitness programmes help you to feel more relaxed (maybe not during, but after!) by leveraging the fresh air and sunshine to enhance that feel-good factor. Exercise also releases endorphins which is why you always feel amazing after you've trained.
Appear confident not only in your appearance but in yourself
How? One exudes confidence not only in one's posture but also by making eye contact. Remember to smile and get enough sleep the night before. Research has shown that people who sleep less are more likely to binge on unhealthy foods the next day.
Get plenty of exercise, in the days leading up to your date as this will make you feel better about yourself. A few sessions under the belt and you'll look and feel slimmer, which boosts your confidence. - IOL, adapted from a press release
* For more tips and sure ways to get ready for Valentine's Day, go to www.facebook.com/AdventureBootCampSA
* For more about Adventure Boot Camp go to www.AdventureBootCamp.co.za or call 021 447 27 46.
* If in any doubt about your health, consult your doctor before undertaking these exercises.