Thursday, June 24, 2010

How Much Exercise Do You Need?


Experts recommend that you do 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic activity three or more times a week because of its health benefits. However, most times we do not exercise for as long as one month which in turn does no good to our bodies.

If you have been inactive for a while, you may want to start with less strenuous activities such as walking or swimming at a comfortable pace. Beginning at a slow pace will allow you to become physically fit without straining your body. Once you are in better shape, you can gradually do more strenuous activity.

Begin with Moderate-intensity Activity
Moderate-intensity activities includes some of the things you may already be doing during a day or week.

These are some examples: A short walk around the block, Playing actively with the kids, Walking up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, Taking an activity break -- get up and stretch or walk around, Parking your car a little farther away from your destination and walking the extra distance

The point is not to make physical activity an unwelcome chore, but to make the most of the opportunities you have to be active.


Aerobics Exercises
Aerobic activity involves continuous activity or exercise that is long in duration but low in intensity, allowing the body to replenish needed oxygen. Aerobic exercise activities are gentle rhythmic exercises that involve low-intensity activity in a way to improve oxygen consumption of the body.
Examples include: Stair Climbing, Working the treadmill, Stationary bicycle, Indoor rower, Stairmaster, Cycling, Nordic Walking, Kickboxing and Rope skipping.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Stretching and strengthening exercises such as weight training should also be a part of your physical activity program. In addition to using calories, these exercises strengthen your muscles and bones and help prevent injury.


Photo Credits: A.D.A.M

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