Saturday, October 17, 2009

Fitness After 40: 4 Excellent Exercises For Beginners

By Scott Fisher

You may be putting off that over 40 exercise program because you are nervous. You worry that you could get hurt doing aerobics or jogging. Maybe you have been to the gym, but were intimidated by all of the other people who were in far better shape than you. Perhaps you find strenuous activity too uncomfortable. If you let these things intimidate you, you are risking your health and life. However, there are easier steps you can take that will get you started on the path to fitness.

Walking is one of the simplest exercises, but it can have a profound positive effect. An ideal workout elevates your heartbeat for at least 30 minutes. When you start walking, do not worry about how far you walk or how fast. As long as you walk for 30 minutes, you are doing everything right. After your first week, set a distance goal that is slightly further and try to cross that distance in the same amount of time. As time passes, you will increase in strength and speed. Gradually, you will be able to achieve a light jog.

Riding a bike is a simple alternative to walking that is easier on the joints and you can do in a group. Your bike does not need to be expensive, just comfortable. You can also try a stationary bike but may prefer the scenery of a real bike. Also, many people are using recumbent cross training machines which are essentially cycling machines that train your upper body as well.

You should always start your over 40 exercise routine at your comfort level. If you are not ready for a run or a bike ride, start with simpler exercises. This will increase your chances of success and help you prevent injury. Also, easy exercises help you prepare your body for more intense activity.

You can continue your over 40 exercise program even if you are sitting at a desk or on a couch. Simple leg lifts can help build your leg muscles and prepare you for more activity. You can add ankle weights to increase resistance and tone muscle. Using small two to five pound weights while performing light arm curls will strengthen your biceps. Each of these activities should adequately prepare your body for a brisk walk or light aerobics.

Your local pool may offer water aerobics or aquatic classes. These exercises are easy on your joints and prepare you for a more intense workout. Water resistance makes simple movements twice as effective. Also, you can use foam dumbbells and aqua belts to increase resistance even further.

Pedometers can help you better understand your current level of activity and improve. Once you have worn a pedometer for a week, you will know when you are the most sedentary. If you have little or no activity at work, use that as an opportunity for improvement. Try to take the stairs for at least one flight, park further away from the building, and take a walk over your lunch break.

There is no need for worry or nervousness. It can be easy to start your over 40 exercise program, whether you start walking, biking, or performing sitting exercises. If you start slowly, you will be able to overcome your fear and have a longer, healthier life.

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