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Mike Hopkins talks about staying in shape
ABOVE VIDEO: NASA Astronaut Mike Hopkins explains that one of the main components of being an astronaut is staying healthy and fit. Hopkins is expected to launch on the Soyuz TMA-10M spacecraft in September.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Mike Hopkins is scheduled to launch on the Soyuz TMA-10M spacecraft on September 25, alongside two Russian cosmonauts.
His crew will dock at the International Space Station where Hopkins will stay on Expedition 37 and Expedition 38. While at the station, he will conduct science and maintenance experiments to help further study the effects and possibilities of space colonization. .
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an astronaut?
NASA Astronaut Mike Hopkins can tell you that a major component is being healthy and fit. You can learn more about astronaut fitness and training by following the weekly posts and videos from Mike and the NASA team.
Hopkins prepares for his first space flight. He and his fellow Expedition 37 crew are scheduled to take off to the International Space Station in September. Preparation involved a variety of training – from simulated spacecraft to spacewalk.
It also includes exercises to ensure crew members are in good shape for six months of living and working in space.
OF THE ‘SHOW ME’ STATE
Mike was no stranger to staying fit and healthy before he was chosen as an astronaut candidate. He grew up on a farm outside of Richland, Missouri, staying active by playing in streams and in the woods.
He started playing basketball in second grade, but fell in love with football when he started playing in fourth grade. Hopkins continued to play college football and became captain of the Fighting Illini football team at the University of Illinois.
Now his many hobbies keep him active. He spends time skiing, hiking, running and participating in CrossFit.
“Staying fit and being physically active are important parts of my life,” Hopkins said.
All of these recreational interests have helped Mike prepare for astronaut training, but his dedication to fitness won’t stop once he launches into the space station.
SPACE STATION TRAINING OPTIONS
During the mission, the crew members will exercise approximately two hours per day. Training options on the station include a specially designed treadmill that uses a harness to hold the astronaut in place, an exercise bike, and a one-of-a-kind resistive exercise machine.
Stationary exercise helps limit changes in muscle, bone, and cardiovascular system during extended astronauts sojourn in a microgravity environment.
“I want to motivate kids and adults to exercise and stay fit with me,” said Mike Hopkins.
Scientists are studying how the human body reacts to the space environment, and this research is helping to solve medical problems on Earth. It also helps astronauts better adapt to gravity when they return to Earth.
Training and staying healthy are important not only for astronauts, but for everyone. That’s why Mike wants to create a fitness community to show how anyone can train like an astronaut.
“I want to motivate young people and adults to exercise and stay fit with me,” he said.
NEW WORKOUT IDEAS
So let Mike help you change your fitness routine by presenting you with new workout ideas and encouragement to keep you moving.
“Some days are not as easy as others. Some days it’s harder to get out of bed and hit the gym when you’re a little tired, but these are probably the most important days to get into the gym, ”Hopkins said.
“When you can get through those days, that’s when you get better and healthier. “
He and his “Train Like An Astronaut” support team will post regular updates, including his training videos from space and fitness tips from astronaut trainers.
Anyone can follow Mike’s mission. Participation is easy and open to all ages.
CLICK HERE to find out more and participate in “Train Like An Astronaut”
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