PAMPY’S POST – SEPT24a

Combining working & exercise

with a gully board!

I'll often hear "I know that I feel much better when I exercise, but I struggle to find the time".

What if you could combine work and exercise?

Recent case studies convinced me to try using a gully board while sitting at my desk. A gully board is essentially a wobble board but shaped like a skateboard with a half ball on the base. You position your feet on the board and work as usual.

It seems that this method provides great 'neural' benefits for the elderly who have limited vertical activity, and it also appears to help athletes improve their ankle integrity. The constant balancing on the board seems to benefit ankle, achilles, and foot health.  Basically, the subtle & perpetual counterbalance maintains neural sharpness.  Regular runners claim improved lower leg recovery using the gully board - CLICK HERE

A simple alternative is placing a timber cutting board on top of a golf ball and giving it a try. After a long sitting session, my legs certainly felt less sluggish when standing.  My problem was focussing on two things at once.

Another working exercise option is to use a standing desk. Undoubtedly, the standing desk is a great practice for some. For those more advanced, try using a balance board while working upright and good luck. While I do recommend some standing work when possible, I'm concerned that not many people have the skeletal balance and strength needed to maintain proper posture all day.

While including the gully board in your active day is enjoyable, setting an alarm to stand up briefly every 15 minutes, whenever possible, is an even healthier strategy.

🧊 Ice therapy steps it up 🧊

If you're like me, you may remember your dad using a bag of frozen peas to wrap up your sprained ankle. Things have changed!

Game Ready is a company that offers products with active compression and cold therapy technology for treating, rehabilitating, and recovering from injuries. Game Ready is a device capable of providing active pneumatic compression and adjustable cold therapy.

What will it do for you?

Cold compression therapy combines two elements of the first aid technique RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): active pneumatic compression with cryotherapy, also known as cold therapy. This method works by applying alternating pressure to remove edema and reduce swelling, which can then be eliminated by the lymphatic system. The improved circulation and intermittent pressure help promote and accelerate tissue healing and quality. Additionally, the decrease in temperature reduces pain by constricting blood flow to the injury.

The 5 known benefits of cold compression include:

1. Reduced pain and swelling

2. Increased healing of tissues

3. Decreased need for oral pain medication

4. Increased range of motion

5. Lowered rehabilitation time

How does Game Ready work?

Game Ready products include a control unit with single and dual connector hoses and accessories such as a rechargeable battery pack kit and protective carry and wrap bags for safe storage and transport.

Does it work?

I thought I'd try it on my chronic elbow inflammation. After 4 x 30 minute sessions, it appears the pain and inflammation have settled, which is good.  However, I am trialling the Game Ready unit (seen in the picture) courtesy of the Institute of Sport. Unfortunately, it comes with a 3K price tag and is designed for elite athletes, so I was told.  So, I guess I'm back to the frozen peas compressed with gladwrap.