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In need of some exercise but don't have access to a gym? No problem. A few creative solutions can help you feel the burn from the comfort of home. Summer has arrived and the quest for a beach-ready body is in full swing. But you don't have to head to the gym to achieve the results you seek. A few common household items may provide inexpensive calorie-busting, strength-inducing solutions. TOP TOOLS FOR YOUR ATšHOME EXERCISE ROUTINES Kitchen chair Pull the chair away from your family dining table and use it like a ballet bar. Stand about one foot away from the chair, rest your hands on the back and bring your heels together, toes turned out. Keeping the abdominal muscles engaged and the spine straight, begin to bend at the knees for a simple plié to strengthen the calves, glutes and hamstrings. Towels Use a beach towel for a sweat- absorbing yoga mat. Smaller towels can help extend your reach when you stretch. For a hamstring stretch, sit on your mat with one leg extended out in front of you, slightly bent. Holding each end of a hand towel, loop the middle around your foot and extend your leg. Cinch up the towel as your stretch deepens. ✚ Bungee Cord Bungee cords you may have around the house are a cheap alternative to resistance bands for arm exercises. Simply sit in a chair with your feet fl at on the fl oor. Hook the ends of the bungee under your bent knees and hold the top of the loop, with your arms outstretched. Slowly lift your arms up to eye level, with the tops of your hands pointing toward the ceiling. Pause, and slowly lower the arms back down. Looking to build your biceps? Simply hold the bungee palms up and curl arms at the•elbows. WORK OUT Anywhere Your Brain on Exercise 1. Exercise can lead to better sleep, more energy and even a sharper memory. 2. Researchers have measured the growth of new brain cells in subjects after exercise. 3. Exercise helps you recover more completely from and reduces your risk for stroke by 40 percent. "To reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by as much as 50 percent, at least 150žminutes of moderate exercise each week including two to three strength training sessions is recommended," says Vahid Behravan, M.D., neurologist at CHRISTUS St.žVincent Regional Medical Center. "If your physician has cleared you to exercise, start small and gradually lengthen your workouts as your fitness improves." Discuss more ways to keep your brain healthy with your primary care provider. Visit stvin.org and click on "Book an Appointment." Talk with your doctor about your plans to exercise at home. Call (505) 913-3000 or visit stvin.org to find a primary care provider near you. 11 Summer 2017 | st vin.org AGING WELL 11