Tips to Help You Start a Regular Fitness Routine

By Leila Novembre


The road to a fit and healthy body might seem daunting when you consider beginning an exercise plan after not exercising for many years. The logic of this statement can't be denied when you take into account how you are living your life at present. The first problem to overcome is the lifestyle you have gotten used to that has no provision for exercise. Just the thought of how much work it's going to take to get back into shape can be an obstacle that will be hard to work through, especially if you are extremely unhealthy and unfit. You must face up to the fact that you must get past psychological blocks as well as physical limitations. Do whatever is necessary to improve your fitness and don't wimp out. The benefits you will accumulate with make it well worth your time and commitment. Your quality of life and overall health depend on you to take positive action.

You will discover that your body is changing and reacting to your new workout plan. As you change other routines also, they will, in some fashion, affect your body. We'll talk about some areas that will change based on your new exercise program. For example, generally just taking better care of your body and eating healthy foods will make a difference.

It is very important to avoid causing your body to become nutrient deficient. If you don't, your body could actually be "starving" and this is something that you don't want to happen. You will find that you are lacking in sufficient energy to get through your day if you don't fuel your body adequately. Experienced exercisers, who perform extreme workouts, listen to what their body is telling them. You can simply listen to what your body is telling you to know what to do. It's not hard to do. Just turn your focus inwards and listen to what your body is telling you. You will, of course, be the one who benefits because - by paying attention to your body - you can possibly prevent injuries from happening. Then, you must listen to your body and take appropriate action. You will know when to stop and avoid the mistake of trying to be "strong" and proceed, when you are experiencing pain and should stop. When your body gives you feedback, listen! You will know whether you should stop or change what your are doing.

The exercises you choose will determine how severe the "tear down" on your muscles is. It is essential, regardless of your exercise program, that you allow your body sufficient time to rebuild - and heal - after each session.

Becoming limber is the key to preventing injury, regardless of the type of exercise routine you choose. The muscles of your legs have to be warmed up and stretched along with the rest of your muscle groups. It easy to find stretches that target your legs, tendons, and ligaments so your legs become warmed up before your workout. The first rule is to begin slowly and gradually build up your routine, even if you are relatively fit. You can easily stretch out your hamstring muscles by bending over from the waist. If you have a problem keeping your legs straight during this stretch, don't force yourself. Also, never bounce when you are stretching any part of your body. In the final analysis, you usually can't come up with a good excuse for not beginning, and maintaining, a simple exercise program. When you design your plan, you must find one that works well for you so you won't be tempted to quit out of boredom. You must be naturally attracted to any form of exercise you choose so you don't lose interest. Figure out what you like to do, visit your doctor, and then get started. And when that is accomplished, get any gear or equipment you need and start out slowly and patiently. And remember, avoid injury in every way you can. Of course, this means don't plan a fitness program designed for a teen-ager.




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