Side Stepping

Today’s tip is brought to you by the letters C and V.  As in Coach Chuckie V.
=========================
Here’s one of my favorite exercises to do in the gym or at home. They’re called side steps. I’ve always tried to describe these in the written form but always struggled to do so. No more of that nonsense!

A few things regarding these…

1) Resistance is determined by the weight in each hand or by the height of the platform., or by both. You might even work up to wearing ten-pound ankle weights while carrying a giraffe on your back, for more resistance. I suggest sparing us all from the bravado and starting with just the movement at first, with the platform at a mid-shin level. Your knees may not take to these straight away (i.e., you’re weak).

2) Do the entire maneuver is done one slow-motion performance. Don’t pause at any point. As you become more adept you can practically fly over the platform and these take on the role of a plyometric exercise.

3) When your balance becomes rock solid challenge yourself by doing these barefooted. If you master that, try them with your eyes closed. If a ninja assails you right then, use the weights in your hand for self-defense. Remember: you are a warrior, a ninja nemesis.

4) Do this by time and not repetitions. Simply start on one side of the platform and finish on that same side after an amount of time that you deem appropriate. I have Angela do them for up to twenty minutes at a time, while I chat up the girl at the front desk or catch up on some table tennis.

5) If you can get them in sync with your legs, don’t be afraid to swing your arms as though you were running. This will help work that spindly upper body of yours.

6) If you’re narcissistic do these in front of a freshly-Windexed mirror. If you’re ugly do them in the dark, please. If you’re not sure whether you’re ugly just ask someone or shoot a picture my way and I’ll save you the trouble. If you’re ugly and narcissistic…well, welcome to the club!

7) Don’t come crying to me when you hurt two days later. These suckas hurt!