Fitness! Doing it Right

A great way to shed those extra pounds, a new fitness program gets you fit and trim. But right at the start, you need to do it the right way, so you don't get defeated before you barely started.

Starting off

If you haven't exercised in a while, you need to go to your doctor to see if there are any health concerns that may hinder the program that you are considering. Get a clean bill of health and the blessing of your family doctor with a well-rounded physical.

Take it slow

Going to your doctor at first will help you to determine what pace you can start off at. Many new exercisers try to do too much because they think that they can get better results (and faster results) by doing it that way.

It's a good idea to start with a little bit, especially as you have been off exercise in a while. Try walking a few minutes until you feel tired then stop for the day. Don't worry if it is only five minutes! that five minutes is what you need, and remember its five minutes exercise that you didn't get yesterday! When you start the following day, you will be able to put in slightly more of walking.

You shouldn't try and do much too soon because you can end up injuring yourself, put yourself flat on your back with no exercise again. Easing into a fitness routine allows your body to adapt to your new routine, making it easier for you to carry out your daily fitness program consistently.

Warming up

Before starting any exercise program, you should warm up for a couple of minutes by doing some simple exercises like jumping jacks or taking a short walk. This should be followed by a series of stretching exercises. Warm ups prevent injuries and achy muscles.

Doing different things and Doing things differently

Draw up a weekly plan that includes several different exercise programs. In this way, you won't get bored and your body will get a better work out.

Find a few activities that you enjoy doing on your own, or find a class that you might enjoy to spice things up.

Find a friend

Find a friend with whom you can exercise. You will be much more disciplined and dedicated to an exercise program if you know someone else is depending on you to be there.

When asking a friend or spouse to exercise with you, make sure their fitness levels match yours and they are as committed to getting fit as you are.