Get moving and get fit!!! Not sure how to get started? Use the tips and websites below to help you reach your fitness goals.
Getting Started
Take your age and previous level of fitness into consideration as you start. It is always a good idea to check with you doctor before starting on a new fitness program. The American Council on Exercise suggest the following tips* as you begin your program.
* Start slowly and be realistic. If you try to do too much too soon you may get discouraged.
* Warm up with a few minutes of light activity such as stretching before starting your exercise program.
* Listen to your body, it may normal to feel a bit of soreness after exercise but you should not feel serious pain.
* Monitor yourself as you exercise, make sure you are working at the level that is best for you.(Learn more about "Target Heart Rate")
* Pay attention to potential warning signs such as chest pain, dizziness or breaking out into a cold sweat.
Staying Motivated
Now that you've started you new exercise program, how do you stay motivated? The American Academy of Family Physicians suggest the following tips to keep you going strong.
* Try to exercise the same time everyday.
* Make an exercise pact with a friend with both of you holding each other to the deal.
* Write exercise appointments on your calendar.
* Keep a daily log of your activities.
* Think about joining a health club. The cost gives some people an incentive to exercise regularly.
National Resources
The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports - Learn about the council and its work, view publications and link to the resources of other government agencies.
The American Council on Exercise -Visit the Web site of this non-profit for health and fitness tips including healthly recipes.
YMCA- The Young Men's Christian Association was founded in England in 1844 in response to unhealthy social conditions arising at the end of the Industrial Revolution.
Shape Up America- A non-profit organization founded in 1994 to raise awareness of obesity as a health issue.
Action for Healthy Kids-a nonprofit focused on fighting the increasing epidemic of childhood obesity.
Dieting and Fitness Resources
Healthy Recipes from the Mayo Clinic
*Tips courtesy of http://www.stayinginshape.com/3osfcorp/libv/d11.shtml
