Wall Sit 

The wall sit is perfect for viewing because you're essentially acting as your own chair. 'Sit' down against the wall and use only your legs and core for your support. You will start to feel the burn immediately with this exercise, and it can be a difficult one to hold. However, it's also one of the most effective ways to strengthen your body and to shed some of those extra holiday calories. 

Jumping Jacks 

Jumping jacks are a childhood favorite that can instantly get your blood pumping. Instead of turning up the heat a few notches, try doing 20 jumping jacks in the middle of a commercial break. This achievable goal will hopefully make you rise up again and again during all those sponsored ads. 

Planks 

If you spend a lot of time in a chair or you're prone to lower back, planks are definitely for you. This is a strengthening exercise that involves holding your body up in a straight position with just your forearms and the tips of your toes. Start with holding yourself for 15 seconds and work your way up to a minute or more. Planks are a little harder to do while watching television (because you typically keep your head down), but they're also a fast enough exercise that you won't miss much. 

Phoenix, AZ apartments are a great place to get some exercises done, even if you don't have expensive exercise equipment or workout clothes. If you're looking for an apartment complex that focuses on wellness as much as you do, consider touring the Element Deer Valley. With our sparkling pools and interactive fitness facility, you get everything you need to stay fit.

The post 3 Exercises to Try When Watching TV appeared first on Element Deer Valley Blog.

Have you been searching for a gift for someone who enjoys running? Then check out our mini guide for five unique gift ideas for the avid runners in your life. 

Headlamp

During the winter, it can be hard for a runner to exercise when it's still light outside. But running in the dark can be dangerous. There may be obstacles on the trail that could cause a runner to trip, and drivers may not be able to see a person who is jogging across a street or on the side of a road. That's why a headlamp can be a godsend for a runner. The best headlamps will be lightweight and should feature an adjustable light, so you can direct the beam where needed. 

Gift Certificate for a Massage

Runners often develop tight, sometimes painful knots in their muscles. Show that runner in your life a little love by giving them a gift certificate for a well-deserved massage. 

Foam Roller

If you can't afford a gift certificate for a massage, consider purchasing a foam roller so your runner can perform their own do-it-yourself massage on their tight muscles.  

Race Bib Album

Do you know a runner who participates in a large number of competitions? Then gift them with a race bib album. An album is an excellent way to keep old bibs organized. And if the competitor writes their time on each bib, the album also becomes an excellent way for them to keep track of their progress as a runner. 

Gift Certificate to a Restaurant

If you know your runner will be attending a marathon or other competitive run in the near future, consider purchasing a gift certificate for a restaurant that serves pasta near the location of the event. 

Do you also love to run and have been looking for a new place to live in North Phoenix? Then come check out our apartments in Phoenix, AZ, which are set amid a multitude of local trails. We also boast a 24-hour on-site fitness center for those days when you just don't feel like dealing with the elements during your run. We also have four swimming pools that are perfect for cooling down after a run. 

The post 5 Gifts for the Runner in Your Life appeared first on Element Deer Valley Blog.