Starting an
Exercise Program

• Build your exercise program slowly to decrease the chances of injury and discouragement. For example, begin walking at a moderate pace for 5-10 minutes, and gradually work your way up to 20 minutes or more. It’s creating the habit that’s most important. As exercise becomes a regular part of life, it becomes a reward in itself.
• When beginning a new form of exercise, whether it’s yoga or tennis, get some instruction. Qualified instructors can help you use your body correctly, progress quickly, and avoid injuries.
• Do exercise suitable for you. If you have joint pain or are in poor physical condition, consider a water exercise plan. It can be effective for both improving fitness and losing weight, no matter what your age or physical condition. Yoga, tai chi, and martial arts can be helpful for back pain and fibromyalgia. They also improve flexibility, coordination, posture, and stress management.
• Try different approaches to exercise. If you find it hard to walk consistently, sign up for a weight-training or water aerobics class. Different fitness activities appeal to each of us. If you are an outdoor person, you may prefer the trail to the swimming pool, but if you’ve always liked to dance, you may want to sign up for a dance or other movement class. Ask about classes and instructors in the community.
• Include some weight-bearing exercise in your routine to help prevent osteoporosis. To maintain bone strength you need to move muscles and bones against gravity. When you do weight-bearing exercise your bone adapts to the impact of the weight by building more cells and becoming stronger.
• If you are sore after exercising, take a hot bath or shower, and include a few stretches after your workout. You can also get a massage in the hours after you exercise. Massage can help tight muscles relax and recuperate faster.
• Consider doing balance exercises. Improving your body balance is important to maintain health and vitality as you age.
• Have trouble getting started? Learn to crave exercise using self hypnosis.

Exercise Articles on This Site

Resistance Band Exercises
Ab Exercises
Arms: Biceps Exercises and Triceps Exercises
Arms & Shoulders Workout
Rotator Cuff Exercises
Upper Body Exercises
Back Exercises
Butt Exercises for Gluteal Muscles
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Hips & Thighs Workout
Leg Exercises
Specific Exercise Programs: Pilates and Yoga and Walking
Motivating Yourself to Exercise

Exercise Program Resources

How To Get Fit - Fittplan.com provides solid workout routines, cardiovascular exercises, and proven weight-loss strategies from beginner to advanced.

Pilates Exercise for Health

Women's fitness and health tips from a Certified Personal Fitness Trainer and Nutrition Consultant.



Return from Exercise Program to Massage Therapy.