My husband and I went on a 5 day trip to New York City and it was the perfect combo of rest and activity. Although I only had one “official” workout while I was there, my husband and I walked between 6-8 miles a day. I wish I had brought my Garmin so I could log exactly how much we walked everyday. It felt so good. No wonder New Yorkers are fit.

Michael and I in Central Park

So next time you are on vacay, go for some walks. It’s free and possible to do anywhere you go, so just DO IT.

If you are up for a challenge and want to do more than just walking then try your Scottsdale personal trainer’s “Central Park Workout”.

One morning my husband and I walked to Central Park and I used a simple park bench to do some basic exercises. If you can’t find a bench use anything elevated that is stable. Yet, also make sure it is at a height that will challenge you in a safe manner.

As a Scottsdale personal trainer, I want you to get the most out of this work out so perform them in the order I give them and be sure to do 3 sets.

Also, try to move as quickly as possible from exercise to the next. Try to rest no more than one minute between exercise.

That way, the workout is time-effective and will serve as cardio as well as strength. Remember my cardio and strength combined blog?

Central Park Workout :Top of a pushup

Central Park Workout: Bottom of a pushup

First, I want you to do a basic pushup.

Keeping abs tight and back neutral, lower your chest down towards the bench.

Be sure your hips go down as well, BUT don’t let your hips sag either.

Look at the line my body creates from shoulder to hip to ankle joint… a straight diagonal. No arch in my back.

As a Scottsdale personal trainer, I can not over stress : ABS TIGHTÂ is KEY!

Go to failure, meaning until you can’t do any more while maintaining good form.

This will work your core, shoulders, chest, triceps, and back.

Central Park Workout: Bottom of jump squat

Central Park Workout: Top of jump squat

This is called a jump squat.

Start with your feet just past hip width apart.

With your weight in your heels, squat down to no more than 90 degrees.

Spring up and off the floor with both feet leaving the floor at the same time and jump onto the bench.

You should jump onto the bench directly into squat position.

From there push and jump back to the floor where you started.

Be sure to land softly and with control.

Be sure to do this at a manageable height.

This will work your heart, quads, hips, and glutes.

Do 20 reps.

Central Park Workout: Top of tricep dip

Central Park Workout: Bottom of tricep dip

This is a tricep dip.

As a Scottsdale personal trainer, this is one of my favorite upper body movements.

Be sure your fingers face towards your feet.

While keeping your butt close to the bench, lower your butt down towards the ground. Do this, by bending at your elbows. Don’t let your butt swing or move in the direction of your feet at all. This is a common mistake.

Push back up to the top of the tricep dip. This works your triceps and shoulders.

Go quickly and smoothly for 20 reps.

If you want it to be harder, walk your feet further out until your legs are straight.

Central Park Workout: Top of the push and pull

Central Park Workout: Bottom of the push and pull

This is the push and pull.

Start at the top of the push and pull.

Squeeze yourself into a little ball, and tighten your ab muscles as you lean back and PUSH your feet out in front of you.

This will take you to the bottom of the push and pull. Here you want to hold and squeeze your abs for one second, then PULL your knees back up towards your chest.

Go for 20 controlled reps.

It was so beautiful and inspiring to be in such a vibrant place. Exercising in Central Park alongside so many other active New Yorkers.

As a Scottsdale personal trainer, I was amazed by how many other people were working out. I love seeing people use their bodies to the fullest and appreciate their bodies through activity.

So next time you are out of town or can’t make it to the gym, try your Scottsdale personal trainer’s “Central Park Workout” for yourself.

(Also, check out this link for other in home or out of town workout ideas.)

LASTLY, always remember to stretch !!!!

Stretching with Downward Facing Dog In Central Park

As a Scottsdale personal trainer, I want to always reiterate this. Stretching is so important to your health and fitness goals. Read why!