FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In this episode, #1 of 7, of the Focus on Fitness series, Maria and Jeff introduce us to the Plank. This is a full core exercise and is something you can build upon over time. Take your time and feel the entire body come together to keep that plank position steady and strong. Start with 10 seconds, drop to the knees if need be, it all counts. Check out  some more Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   Core exercises: Why you should strengthen your core muscles You know core exercises are good for you — but do you include core exercises in your fitness routine? Here's why you should. By Mayo Clinic   7 Health Benefits of Plank Exercises (+5 Plank Variations You Should Know)    And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Thanks for listening! Episode Web Site we would love to hear from you! Send us an email at [email protected] or give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093