Starting.. on the right foot
You keep telling yourself that you will start a workout program soon. You’ll start right after “this” or “that” or as soon as “this” gets done or when “that” happens. A helpful hint in getting started is to know what to do, and how to start. Following are some common guidelines to follow when beginning an exercise program of you own.
1)Choose and activity you enjoy. Don’t do something because you think it’s a popular activity, or because it’s what “they” are doing. Follow what excites you, what seems interesting or fascinates you, or is simply fun! . If having people exercise with you is important then join a class, club, or form you own small group. When working out with a partner, choose someone with a similar fitness level. As a beginner you may work too hard if you exercise with an experienced partner.
2)When beginning, ease into a program and have fun. Remember, you should not be trying to make up for all those years you have not exercised for ,in one week. Realize you must acclimate your body to these new activities, so you may be stiff or sore after the fist day or two. This soreness will pass as you continue to work the muscles. If you overdo it the first day, you may be so sore that it turns you off from exercising later. Safe progression is key.
3)Choose to participate in more than one activity. Anything can become boring or monotonous day after day. If you like cycling and swimming then alternate these activities. Don’t try to learn a new skill as a way to exercise unless it is very simple. A novice tennis player will burn far less energy, than a proficient player. Remember to choose activities that can still be done during inclement weather. You want to have the freedom to exercise year around, not just the spring and summer. A good program incorporates aerobic, strength, and flexibility components. Try for all around conditioning, not just one aspect.
4)When choosing your activity be sure to consider the availability of facilities/cost/hours of operation. Some people feel they will attend more regularly if they joined a club or hired a personal trainer. Others choose to buy videos/equipment and workout at home. Besides the equipment needed to exercise, you must wear appropriate attire. Footwear is very important, check with an athletic shoe store so they may fit you with the proper size and type of shoe for the type of activity you will be doing.
5)When possible, exercise at the same time of day. This helps to form a schedule. Once you have a routine it becomes a natural part of your week
Everyday activities such as walking the dog, gardening, taking the stairs, and mowing the lawn are good ways of adding to your overall activity. Most important is to enjoy the activities you do. This makes the benefits even more rewarding and worthwhile. You’re improving your health substantially, and having fun too!