New Year's Resolutions

Now that the New Year has come and gone and reality has sunk back in, I thought I would ask you all how your New Year's Resolutions are going. Hopefully you have been more successful with yours, than I have been with mine. My New Year's Resolution was that I would stop living out my days in a Vietnam hotel. As you can see, I've failed at that one.

If I had been at home, I'm sure my resolution would have been different and probably centered around improving the amount of physical activity that I get in a day. And like every year, I would have had a difficult time getting started on some sort of exercise program.

Well, if you are anything like me and are hoping to get out and move your body, I have some great ideas for you.

In Vietnam, I have spent a great deal of time out walking. During these walks I have witnessed many wonderful and interesting things. And of all the crazy things that I have observed, my favorite by far is exercise, Vietnam style. To help you with your New Year's Resolutions this year, I have created below a How-to-Exercise-Vietnam-Style guide. Follow these simple exercises and you will be on your way to a new and improved you.

Exercise #1 Backwards is Best

First and foremost, find a very populated street. Preferably one that is in front of some building of historical significance. Next, fix your eyes on an object that is directly in front of you. Do not take your eyes off this spot. Now, walk in a straight line backwards. When you get to the end of the street, turn around and walk backwards the other way. Whatever you do, look very serious and dedicated (it helps burn more calories if you exercise solemnly) and walk with great purpose.

Exercise #2 The Timid Jogger Windmill

Once again, find a populated area. This exercise is too enjoyable to do in the privacy of your own home. Get into a crowded area so everyone can delight in it with you. Now start to jog. Well....don't really jog, that would require too much sweating. Try to move your legs quickly, but keep them limp and try to drag them down the street with you. Once you've mastered the legs you can add the arms. The arms are a bit tricky, so follow closely. Think about how your arms move when you do a front crawl swimming stroke. Now, change that stroke to make sure your arms are moving in full 360 degree circles. Keep your arms rotating the entire time you run and by all means look very serious and dedicated.

Exercise #3 Elvis Has Not Left the Building

Your last exercise happens to be my personal favorite. Once again, find a national monument that is frequently visited. Stand on the street next to that monument and turn your back to the crowd. Put your hands on your hips and gyrate them from side to side. Keep doing this over and over, giving the crowd a good view of what it looks like to exercise your backside. I can guarantee, it will be a real crowd pleaser.

Well everyone, that's it. Follow these simple exercises and you should be back in shape in no time. I look forward to hearing all about your progress when I get home (which sounds like it may be two or more weeks from now).