Exercise

An exercise program should include aerobic exercise, strength training, and stretching.

Aerobic exercise: These exercises help get your heart rate up and reduce body fat. Aerobic activities include swimming, bicycling, walking, jogging, and exercise classes or videos.

Strength training: Weight lifting or other types of strength training helps you burn calories by raising your metabolism and improving your muscular strength and endurance.

Stretching: Stretching exercises help elongate your muscles and improve flexibility. Stretch before and after exercise.

Add Exercise to Your Daily Routine

Slight adjustments to your routine can help increase your physical activity throughout the day.

• Take the stairs instead of an elevator.
• Instead of going to a movie with friends, suggest bowling, dancing or miniature golfing.
• Play outside with your kids instead of watching television.
• Park a good distance away from your destination.
• Instead of e-mailing or calling a work colleague, walk to their desk to discuss a project.
• Take a walk around the building during a morning or afternoon work break.

Consult your physician before beginning a new exercise routine, especially if you haven’t been physically active for a while, are over the age of 50, or are living with a chronic condition.