Exercise More:
With these general guidelines in mind, how can you exercise more, considering you're busy, stressful lives you live?
At Work:
- Take a brisk at lunchtime
- Stand up at your desk and stretch every half hour
- Imagine that you're late for a meeting and walk a little faster
- If you go to work by public transport, get off at an earlier stop and walk the rest of the way
At Home:
- Stand up and stretch while watching TV
- Get up to switch TV channels instead of using the remote control
- Plan a regular, brisk weekend walk
A Word Caution:
Exercise should be done safely. Here are five golden rules of exercising safely:
- Think long-term and get fit gradually
- Warm up before playing or exercising. This will lessen the chances of sprain and strain. Have a few gentle bends and stretches and arm swings.
- Exercise regularly. Three 20-minute sessions a week are best. Fit these exercise sessions into your schedule. Never make excuse not to do them.
- Cool down afterwards by walking slowly for a few minutes. If possible have a warm bath to relax muscles after exercise.
- Keep at it. Fitness is an ongoing pursuit.
More Tips to Help You Keep Physically Fit:
- Don't cross one leg over the other. Ensure that your feet are on the floor to keep weight off your thighs. If necessary, use a footrest to support your feet.
- Don't lean forward more than you have to. You may not notice it but your head is fairly heavy. If you're using a computer, position the video display unit of your computer in a way that allows you to hold your head in a comfortable position.
- Position your desk so that you don't have to keep turning when somebody enters the room
- When standing, don't fold your arms. This position tends to make you lean forward.
- Balance your weight equally on both feet. Don't shift your weight from one foot to another.
- When carrying heavy load, make sure that these are properly balanced before walking
