Issue Date: July 20, 2008
Weed and work out
Spending time in the yard can be just as good for you as it is for your garden. "Think of it as a green exercise program," says Jeffrey Restuccio, the author of "Get Fit Through Gardening." "Composting leaves and grass clippings, growing trees, flowers or vegetables is good for the environment and good for you, too. You don't even have to drive to the gym."
To get physical benefits, spend at least 30 to 60 minutes gardening, Restuccio says. But don't just stare at the spinach. Follow this aerobic model:
First, warm up and stretch.
Then, Restuccio recommends, "weed or cultivate at a rate that increases your heart rate so you're breathing heavily but still able to carry on a conversation." Remember to use your legs as you work, he adds. That "will burn more calories, allow you to garden longer ... protect your back and reduce overall muscle soreness."
Finally, stretch again, then cool down.
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