I read this study done by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and thought it was very interesting, so I had to share it with you. If you know anyone with Downs Syndrome please pass this along. Strength training just may hold significant benefits for those with Down Syndrome and can improve their quality of life.

Do you use your home to workout? There are many ways to accomplish some aerobic, resistance, strength and stretching exercises without leaving your home, whether you use Wii Fit or follow along to exercise tapes/DVDs...to just including your daily/weekly chores (gardening, vacuuming, lawn mowing, dusting, etc.) as exercise.

I recently read an article in the UC Berkeley Wellness Letter regarding a Do-It-Yourself Home Gym that I thought was great!

Here are the four items you need to create your own Home Gym:

Michael Maina, PhD, an associate professor of health and human performance at Roanoke College, in Virginia, recommends exercises to strengthen the minor muscle groups often overlooked in our fitness routines. We typically focus on the major muscles groups like the glutes and abs. Yet, the smaller muscles play just as important a role in keeping us injury free and feeling energetic, particularly for those of us over 40.

How strong is your core? If you've tried any exercise program, or watched the infomercials, you've probably heard a lot about developing "core strength." Generally, while a lot of us might only think "abs," this refers to strengthening the muscles between your pelvis and shoulders. Your core supports the rest of your body, protects your spine and is at the root of daily muscle activity. Arthur Agatston, M.D., cardiologist and author of the South Beach Diet, recommends core strength training for more than physical fitness, but also for strengthening your heart.