EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) – With fall sports kicking off and children heading back to school, many parents find themselves putting personal health on the back burner. Recognizing this challenge, KRDO13 fitness specialist Summer Strong has released a concise 20‑minute full‑body workout designed for busy families in the county.
Why a short routine matters
Research shows that regular physical activity improves mood, energy levels, and overall well‑being—benefits that are especially valuable for parents juggling work, school drop‑offs, and extracurricular schedules. A brief, high‑intensity session can deliver comparable results to longer workouts when performed consistently.
The 20‑minute plan
The routine requires minimal equipment: a pair of light dumbbells (or household items such as water bottles), a sturdy chair, and a yoga mat or carpeted surface. It is structured as a circuit of six exercises, each performed for 45 seconds followed by a 15‑second rest. The circuit is repeated three times, totaling roughly 20 minutes.
- Jumping jacks – Warm‑up to raise heart rate.
- Body‑weight squats – Strengthen legs and core.
- Push‑ups (knees or full) – Work chest, shoulders, and triceps.
- Dumbbell rows – Target upper back using a chair for support.
- Plank – Build core stability.
- Standing shoulder press – Use light dumbbells to engage shoulders and arms.
After each circuit, take a one‑minute water break before beginning the next round. The workout can be performed at home, in a garage, or at a local gym, making it adaptable to any schedule.
Tips for staying consistent
Summer Strong advises parents to schedule the session at a consistent time—perhaps early morning before the household awakens or after children’s bedtime. Setting a reminder on a phone or placing a sticky note on the fridge can help turn the workout into a habit.
Additionally, involving children in a modified version of the circuit can turn exercise into family time, reinforcing healthy habits for the next generation.
Accessing the video
The full instructional video is available on KRDO13’s website. Viewers can watch the demonstration, follow along with the timing cues, and adjust the intensity to match their fitness level.
For ongoing local health and wellness updates, residents are encouraged to download the KRDO13 app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Community impact
By providing a practical, time‑efficient fitness solution, Summer Strong aims to support the physical and mental health of El Paso County families as they navigate the busy back‑to‑school season. Regular participation can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and set a positive example for children.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.