yard work out: Mow the lawn

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Updated November 2, 2012

Yard workout
Digging in the dirt beats sweating in the gym any day

By Diane Hart
First published in Chatelaine's May 2003 issue.
© Diane Hart

Mow the lawn

Calories burned in 10 minutes: 60

Cutting your grass with a push mower can get your heart pumping. It's comparable to hiking, walking briskly on a treadmill or downhill skiing. Plus, this cardio-boosting workout allows you to get some fresh air and quality de-stressing time.

What it works
Your calves, legs, buttocks and upper body

How to do it
Keep your arms bent, your back straight and abs tight.

TIP
Stand directly behind the mower and keep your stride short to reduce the strain on your lower back.


		Intro
		Basic stretch
		Lift a wheelbarrow
		Dig with a trowel
		Mow the lawn
		Prune a tree
		Trim your hedges
		Tips for working in your garden


		Grow your own herbs
		Pot luck


		Your complete gardening guide
		More workouts in Sweat Central


		Swap gardening tips in our Home + garden forum


		Garden guru Yvonne Cunnington: April 14 to 18

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