The most common barrier I hear from people as to why they are not able to perform their recommended exercises is “there is just not enough time”. Now, most of us are in the car at least 3 days/ week, what if you could do some recommended exercises in the car? Here are four simple exercises that everyone could benefit from and can easily be done in the car: 

Disclaimer: While in the car, driving should always be your priority. Always exercise extreme caution when driving. If you feel as though these exercises are becoming distracting, please stop. Some find it easier to perform while at redlights or while the car is stopped. 

1. Neck Retractions

   • This is a great postural exercise, especially for those experiencing neck pain. Tuck your chin down and gently glide your head backwards, pushing your head into the headrest. If you are giving yourself a double chin, you are doing it correctly. Hold for 5-10 seconds. You want it to be challenging but not exhausting. Repeating 5 times.

2. Core Activation

   • Sitting up tall, bring the belly button towards the spine. Exhale and bear down, as if someone is about to punch you in the stomach. Squeeze the abs for 5-10 seconds. Repeating 5 times.

3. Glute Squeezes

   • Strong glutes lead to a healthier pelvic floor and decreased back pain. For this one, sit up tall and squeeze the glutes. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Repeating 5 times.

4. Kegels

   • I could go on for days about how important kegels are, but I will spare you. Kegels help strengthen your pelvic floor which help from accidentally leaking pee, farting and they can even improve orgasms. To activate the kegels, imagine stopping your flow of urine midstream or tightening your vagina around a tampon. Repeating 5 times.

If you cannot make it through the list on the way to your destination, that is perfectly okay. Pick up right where you left off the next time you find yourself in the car. If you experience any pain while performing these exercises, please discontinue and discuss with your healthcare provider.