Hai guys! So I just did the body step super workshop and I had an awesome (sweaty) time. I’m going to give the release a bit of time and mull over it because I’m not sure what I think. Don’t get me wrong I am still head over heels in love with Body Step, but I’m not sure I’m diggin’ some of the changes. But it’s like when you first hear a song and think it’s no good, after getting use to it (and probably hearing it 38738 times)- you end up loving it! However a few things instantly stood out to me:
- Awesome athletic track.
- Good intensity.
- The whole changing steps thing is not my fav… AT ALL.
- Track 5 is a nice tough one again.
- I miss the flava in track 3!
- I don’t like the format options- the options are doing 1-7, then peak then athletic; or doing 1-7, athletic then peak (followed by usual conditioning and warm down of course). There use to be the option to do 1-8, athletic then finish or 1-7 ,athletic then peak. Doing 1-8 kept the party track in there and sort of catered for the whole class-those who like the athletic and those who prefer the more ‘flava’ tracks.
- Majority of the tracks had good music- although it was hard to hear during the workshop.
The super workshop was good in that there were SO many of us but I like the more intimate workshops that I’ve done in the past- where I could actually get into it a whole lot more because I could see and hear the instructors (including the quirky/funny comments they usually make) and could hear the music a lot more (Remember- a good instructor/good class for me is someone who pumps up the jams!)
BUT while I was doing the class I also noticed a pain in my calves. For some reason they are strangely tight and feel like they have been cemented or something. It’s really weird- I’m thinking it’s either lack of stretching prior to starting, previous overuse or my body just begging for some rest!
I’ve been doing some stretches to hopefully loosen them up before the Bridge to Brisbane run tomorrow! I don’t need anything (on top of my lack of ability) making it harder for me to run 😛 I thought while I was doing them I’d also share with you some of my favourite calf stretches. FYI: Calf injuries are usually the most common injury for Body Steppers- that’s why in release 88 we did a lot of calf strengthening and toning (preventative training). (NOTE: Remember I am not a professional nor am I medically trained so please approach these with those thoughts in mind. If in doubt, check with your GP).
Standing Calf Stretch
Standing with your hands against the wall (WITH AN UPRIGHT POSTURE- take no notice of the lady in the photo) bend your front leg and push back your other leg so it is straight. Make sure your back heel is on the ground and go deeper into your front leg. Make sure your knee stays over your toes and never bends further then them.
Calf Stretch using a Step
We do this one often in Step (because we have the equipment there and ready). Start by standing on the edge of the step and have one foot hanging half off. Lower your body so the heel lowers closer to the ground. This one is fairly intense but gets the job done. Make sure you have balance before you lower and increase the intensity.
Straight Leg Calf Stretch against a Wall
This one is also an intense/aggressive stretch and is easy to overdo, so take it easy. Place your hands on the wall and position your body close. The closer you are the more intense the stretch. Flex your heel back and position your foot so the wall is pushing your toe backwards towards your shin. Maintain good posture and lean into it slowly.
Downward Facing Dog (With option)
This stretch is good for the hamstrings as well as the calves. Stand straight and then bend over so your palms are flat on the ground. Your body should make a triangle with the floor. The aim is to lower your heels as close to the ground as possible.
An option for this one is to bend one leg and prop your foot up on the toes. This focuses on stretching just one leg at a time.
I’ll definitely be whipping these stretches out during the day. Hopefully, if you suffer from the occasional tight calf or just enjoy stretching (good on you) you’ll find these useful.
Do you often get tight calves? I haven’t in a while, but I use to get cramps in them during the night and wake up in the worst pain! It’s not fun when you’re trying to sleep.
I am definitely prone to tight calves, especially when I’m doing a lot of cardio! I like to foam-roll the tightness away =)
I really need to invest in a foam-roller but I just can’t get past the price of them! I’d rather get some more gym wear 😉
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Hi there ~ I love this blog entry of yours. Very informative! I added one of your photos (with its link to your page, of course), to my blog. I’ve got lots of information for pregnant women and exercise, as I’m a physical therapist! Well done with your blog. http://www.leap4women.com Angie
Thanks 🙂 Oh that’s fine hun, thanks for that. Oh cool- I’ll check it out 🙂
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