| Hunter-Gatherer Exercise Routine | |||
| Hunter-gatherers do not lift weights, jog, or go to gyms. They do basically three things - hunt, gather, and walk long distances to find new places to hunt and gather. The routine below is designed to simulate the kinds of activity hunter-gatherers do. The routine is to be performed 3-5 times weekly, preferably outside. If you live close to nature, doing this routine in the woods or mountains is excellent. If you live in a city, stick to the other routines found on this page since exercising outside in the pollution of a city is apt to do your lungs more harm than good. Nice long walk/hike at medium to top speed, with a weighted backpack if desired. (This simulates trekking to find a new camp from where to hunt and gather). Sprints - 40 yds X 5, 100 yds X 5 (This simulates sprinting after a large mammal during the hunt - the distance you sprint is not as important as the sprint itself. This isn't a jog or an easy run - you should be going your fastest, as if trying to run down a deer). For an even greater challenge, try sprinting up hills. Walk carrying a sandbag or any other relatively heavy awkward object for as long as you can.(This simulates carrying meat back to camp after the hunt, or carrying a large basket of food while gathering). Rock or sharp stick throwing - Find a small rock or a sharp stick, and practice your aim by throwing it at objects (preferably inanimate ones). To make this more challenging, try to hit the objects while on the run. (This simulates hunting). Stretching - stretch your lower back, hamstrings, and calves. (No - hunter-gatherers do not stretch out, but since most of us spend our days sitting on chairs with our legs bent, our hamstrings and lower back tend to tighten up over the years). Complement this routine with playful, fun activities such as swimming, dancing, and sports. |
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