My Exercise

December 7, 2023

My exercise routine is very simple.
Part 1: MBT Shoes
I've been wearing MBT shoes for years. MBT stands for Masai Barefoot Trainer, and it's a Swiss brand. While the manufacturer claims these are not traditional shoes, they are designed based on the idea of the Masai tribe in Africa walking barefoot on sandy terrain, aiming to naturally train our muscles. Despite engaging in minimal physical activity like shopping, it effectively tones the muscles below the waist, resulting in a toned, athlete-like physique, including well-defined abdominal muscles.
Part 2: Cross Walking
This exercise, learned from a physical education professor at Tsukuba University on NHK television, involves walking while crossing a single centerline left and right. Crossing significantly causes substantial upper body movement to maintain balance, making it quite a workout. I vaguely recall being advised that it's akin to "lightly doing the breaststroke," but I'm not entirely sure. Doing it too vigorously may make you look somewhat like a drunk person.
Part 3: Super Easy Yoga
Starting from a standing position, squat down as low as possible. Then, raise both hands as high as you can, extending your body. Rotate some part of your body―arms, legs, core, etc. Use a counter app and do it around 50 times a day.
Part 4: Saxophone Practice
There's an old saying that "people with standing and manual job don't need exercise." It suggests that surgeons, carpenters, and hairdressers can participate in sports day events without exercising separately.
Whether this is true or not is uncertain, interestingly, at a golf course, carpenters seem to move most agilely, while internal medicine doctors appear less active.
This anecdote is from an essay in a medical association magazine.
Consequently, I practice the saxophone once a day using the Roland GO, an electronic instrument. It closely mimics the keys and finger movements of a real saxophone. I had shoulder tendonitis from practicing too much in the past, so I'm a bit cautious now.
Currently, I'm in a cafe, and Christmas songs are playing. It's peaceful here. Meanwhile, there's an influenza panic at the clinic these days!!