If you think you don’t have time to work out or feel you’re not strong enough to even begin, this guide to stay fit is perfect for you! And the woman who has mastered it might surprise you! Envision the modern superwoman. Picture her strong and powerful, physically and professionally, possessing one of the most influential voices in our country.
Did an 83-year-old, 5-foot-nothing, Supreme Court Justice come to mind?
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a.k.a. Notorious Ginsburg and RGB, known for her soft voice and strong opinions, began her fitness journey tired and weak after a battle with cancer. Due to the encouragement of her late husband, Marty, she sought out a personal trainer to help regain her strength and well-being. She found Bryant Johnson, an Army reservist and Certified Personal Trainer popular with justices on Capitol Hill.
Now, 18 years and a second cancer battle later, she continues her training with Bryant whom she’s called the “most important person” in her life (next to family) two days a week.
Justice Ginsburg recounts, “At a pace I could manage, Bryant restored my energy as I worked my way back to good health.” Bryant recalls that word spread of her workouts and “People went so crazy for it I was approached to put it in a book so all of you could do it yourselves.”
His resulting book, “The RGB Workout: How She Stays Strong… and You Can Too!” has released just in time to keep us healthy through holidays. As a handbook, it can even launch a New Year’s fitness resolution to be flexible, balanced and strong.
Thanks to simply and clearly stated illustrations, it’s easy, entertaining and can be done at home or at the gym. So, if you’re thinking you don’t have time to work out or the energy to even begin, think of 83-year-old Justice Ginsburg! While she’s doling out opinions to steer the course of our country’s history, she’s also performing planks, side planks, and regular push-ups!
If that’s not a motivator….
Important side note: Before beginning any new fitness routine, always consult your doctor to be sure it’s right for you.
Bryant says to begin by putting on comfy workout garb (Justice Ginsburg wears a crewneck t-shirt that reads ‘Super Diva’) and just begin.
Stay Fit at Any Age: Instructions for Getting Started:
Use Common Sense. Use your best judgement when it comes to trying new things with your body and consult with your doctor before embarking on a new fitness regime.
Get the right equipment. This includes comfortable clothing, 5-20 lb. dumbbells, Swiss ball, an ottoman or bench, etc.
Warm-up (5 minutes)
Jog or walk at a moderate pace on a treadmill, stationary bike or any ‘at home’ alternative, such as march or jog in place.
Rotation Exercises
Each part of the body has its own diagram of her illustrating how to and how long to do each rotation of the arms, neck, shoulders, knees, ankles and hips. He also adds valuable ‘how to’ explanations such as ‘rotate your hips as if hula-hooping in a slow motion.’
Stretching Exercises, Strength Training, Balance and Function, and Cool-down
Bonus: Any day can get a healthy jump-start with simply the warm-up, rotations and stretches to get your heart pumping and increase flexibility.
Remember, it’s the routine RBG practices to stay fit and strong…we can too!
