#24: Lou Riley Doin’ Work!

I promised several videos ago that I would share a bit more information about what I actually do when I’m in the gym. First, you must understand that I was a college athlete. Lifting weight, although reluctantly, was a part of what I did. I spent five years at South Carolina State University and I my ears still hear the ring of free weights clanging around the room. There is a difference between having to lift weights because you are told to do so by those who hold your scholarship in hand and wanting to lift weights because you enjoy it.

I knew that when I started this journey, I would need to add weight lifting to my regimen. I consulted with a mentor of mine who said he had something to show me. Little did I know that he was speaking about Resistance Training Bands. The bands offer a unique, highly mobile. low impact way to build strength. The key is proper technique and rapid movements. That was the way to burn fat and increase muscle tone. Since I have no plans of ever competing again physically, there is no need other than vanity to show I can bench press 300+ pounds (yes I can still bench press 300+ lbs!) So I became curious about using the bands.

I must say that I have been extremely happy with them. I can workout in a gym, at a park, in my driveway, in the swimming pool-it doesn’t matter! This simple, yet genius “machines” have made all the difference in my return. You may have even seen T.O. (Terrell Owens) using them in the swimming pool during an episode of his reality show. I figure if T.O. looks like that and uses the resistance bands, then there must be something more to them than meets the eye.

In fact, you will find resistance training bands at any major college sports program around the country. Some for rehab purposes, and other for speed and agility training. I’m probably waaayyy ahead of the fitness curve here, but my the way my body feels now is proof enough for me and in time, the way I look will serve as proof enough for you.

I also notice others with weight issues who come to the gym to work out. I watch them struggle with free weights. Many times, their body isn’t strong enough as of yet to make that jump. Their technique is an issue as well. I know from experience that when the body isn’t strong enough to handle a movement, it begins to compensate. It has become easy for me to watch others exercise and tell who is hurting another part of their body by lifting with the improper technique or just flat out trying to lift too much weight. I don’t say much due the lack of a relationship. One day though, I look forward to holding a few classes to teach others the things I am now learning. Resistance Training Bands will definitely be a large part of that.

Dreams Mean Work