Get the Most Out of Your Exercise Routine Today
Author: Shannon Miller
Different types of physical activity allow you to accomplish different things.
So, a mixture of different activities is optimal for your health and will also keep you motivated to exercise regularly.
- It’s a good idea to have both aerobic and strength-training exercises built into your exercise routine.
- Throw in a little stretching for a well rounded workout!
Try some of these activities to help you get started:
Aerobic – these activities will get your heart rate up and your blood pumping; they will move your large muscles in your legs, arms, and hips over and over again. Some good examples include:
- Walking (Join the Shannon Miller Walk-Fit Program for free and receive great rewards and incentives to move!)
- Jogging
- Biking
- Swimming
- Tennis
Strength-training – these activities will improve the strength and endurance of your muscles. Examples that involve equipment include:
- Weight machines
- Free weights
- Resistance bands
TIP: If you don’t want to use any equipment, good ole push-ups, pull-ups and sit-ups are good options. Use your own body weight to help build your muscles.
Stretching improves flexibility, which means you will be able to move more easily. It’s a good idea to stretch after your muscles are warmed up a little bit – doing it before may lead to injury. If you’re new to stretching check out Shannon’s Stretching To-Go book for a variety of exercises that will help you get started at any level.
Now, let’s look at the best way to combine aerobic and strength-training exercises each week in order to reap the health benefits of each…
- 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (i.e. you should notice and increase in heart rate but still be able to talk comfortably)
- OR 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise (i.e. your heart rate increases a lot and it is difficult to carry on a conversation)
- OR a combination of moderate and vigorous aerobic exercise AND muscle strengthening activities 2 or more days/week.