Health and Wellness


BOOST ENDURANCE Running is among the best aerobic exercises for physical condition- ing of your heart and lungs. It helps ensure the efficient flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body, things that are proven to help to decrease the risk of a heart at- tack and allow you to bowl with more en- durance without tir- ing after your second game of the night.


IMPROVE BALANCE Improved coordina- tion is another worth- while benefit that can be gained from run- ning. Trail running, which involves run- ning on unpaved trails with obstacles such as rocks and tree roots in the way, can force better coordina- tion. Even running on a flat, paved surface can result in improved coordination because


it forces the body to work together to keep the runner upright and traveling in the correct path. Those who run regularly typically move more fluidly than those who do not run. That type of balance and co- ordination is key for successful bowling, which relies heavily on precise balance and timing.


GET HAPPY Running is a great stress-reliever and may even relieve mild depression. Many run- ners enjoy reaching the “runner’s high,” which is that euphoric and calm state they feel after a long run. Research shows that healthy adults who exercise regularly are generally happier than those who don’t. As a runner, you’ll likely feel more energetic, which will certainly help you enjoy league night more!


15 USBOWLER JANUARY 2011


FITNESS, HEALTH AND NUTRITION TIPS TO MAKE YOU A BETTER BOWLER


Knee’d to Know Stretches


Injuries to the knee or chronic knee pain are not uncommon for bowlers. You can reduce the stress you place on your knees through these regular stretching exercises.


HAMSTRING STRETCH: Lie on your back in a doorway, with one leg through the open door. Slide your leg up the wall to straighten your knee. You should feel a gentle stretch down the back of your leg. Hold the stretch for at least one minute.


KNEE TO CHEST: Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Bring one knee to your chest, keeping the other foot flat on the floor (or the other leg straight, which- ever feels better on your lower back). Keep your lower back pressed to the floor. Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds.


CALF STRETCH: Stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at about eye level. Put the leg you want to stretch about a step behind your other leg. Keeping your back heel on the floor, bend your front knee until you feel a stretch in the back leg. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds.


THIGH STRENGTHENER: While sitting in a chair, straighten your leg and hold. Repeat 8-12 times with each leg. Do every day, up to three times a day.


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