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EXERCISE TO
KEEP FIT
We all know
that exercise is the best way to keep fit. A balanced diet coupled with
regular exercise is all that you require to be in the best of health and
also to keep a check on your weight. Now there are a few things that you
need to know before going on a strict exercise routine
How Much Exercise Is Enough?
The most important point that you have to bear in mind is START SLOW, AND
GRADUALLY WORK UP. Experts recommend that you do 20 to 30 minutes of
aerobic activity three or more times a week and some type of muscle
strengthening activity and stretching at least twice a week. If that's not
possible then you need to do 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity
physical activity a day, at least five times a week.
For beginners and those who have been inactive for a while, less strenuous
activities such as walking or swimming at a comfortable pace is advisable.
Beginning at a slow pace will allow you to become physically fit without
straining your body and putting too much strain on your muscles. Once you
are in better shape, you can gradually do more strenuous activity.
Does doing regular house-hold chores benefit my health?
The answer is yes. Regular house-hold chores can be named as
Moderate-intensity activities which work like gardening, cleaning the
house and other housework. These activities can be done in short spurts --
10 minutes here, 8 minutes there. Alone, each action does not have a great
effect on your health, but regularly accumulating 30 minutes of activity
over the course of the day can result in substantial health benefits.
Other examples of housework that can benefit you are as under:
- If the
market is at a walking distance then walk it out instead of taking your
car or cab.
- Rake
leaves
- Play
actively with the kids
- Walk up
the stairs instead of taking the elevator
- Mow the
lawn
- Take an
activity break -- get up and stretch or walk around
- Park
your car a little farther away from your destination and walk the extra
distance
What other
exercises are helpful?
Aerobic activity is an important addition to moderate-intensity exercise.
Aerobic exercise is any extended activity that makes you breathe hard while
using the large muscle groups at a regular, even pace. Aerobic activities
help make your heart stronger and more efficient. They also use more
calories than other activities.
Some examples of aerobic activities include:

-
Brisk
walking
-
Jogging
-
Bicycling
-
Swimming
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Aerobic
dancing
-
Racket
sports
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