Not many people care for exercise guidelines. We like to do things our own way. While that is fine in some scenarios, this isn’t forever the situation for exercise.
Meeting your health and fitness goals can be hard without a clear visual of what you want and how to get there. That is why the following exercise guidelines may be helpful for getting started or turning a brand new leaf. Check them out below.
Consider these Exercise Guidelines
First, Talk with Your Healthcare Provider
Before starting any new fitness program, talk about it with your healthcare provider. They may give you safety precautions and help you pace your time spent exercising.
Find Something Enjoyable
You are less likely to exercise if you hate every moment. To avoid this, choose an activity you enjoy. You may not like crunches and jumping jacks, but you might like hiking, biking, swimming or organized sports. Exercise shouldn’t need to be a chore!
Wear the Right Clothing
Your shoes should support the feet and relieve pain. Don’t exercise in sandals, sports shoes, worn-out shoes, etc. Looser-fitting clothes may be ideal because they offer comfort and provide you with room to move. Also remember to dress for the weather and temperature.
Gradually Come through it
When you start a workout, don’t put the petal to the metal right away. Do a warm-up and build slowly to a activity level that makes you breathe more heavily, increases your heart rate and makes you sweat. You shouldn't feel dizzy, nauseous or unwell.
Always Hydrate
Have fluids on-hand at any time. This should mostly be water so you can replace what you have lost with sweat. You can also try low-sugar sports drinks like Gatorade or Propel.
Keep a Log or Record
Try to find out how many calories you burn with each type of exercise. With a Smart Watch or fitness tool, measure your heart rate and step count. Record what efforts were probably the most challenging and why. Maintaining a detailed log can help you step closer to your goals.
Other Guidelines for Success
- Make exercise fun by doing it with a friend or family member
- Don’t set expectations which are too high
- Switch-up your activities often
- Exercise a minimum of 30 mins/day, 150 mins/week
- Allow time for post-workout recovery
- Stretch before and after you exercise
- Make exercise a part of your lifestyle
