How to Best Approach Exercise

Contributor

By Joe Rivera
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (11 Ratings)

The push-up is a great overall upper body exercise.This is an advanced version.

Working out is an endeavor that brings many benefits. The old adage "move it or lose it" certainly rings true. For the most part, it is an activity that will produce positive effects in your health, state of well-being and state of mind. However, as with everything else-too much of a positive can sometimes become a negative.

There are countless stories of those suffering injuries and even illness from exercising-either too much or incorrectly-back, neck, shoulder, hip and knee injuries are commonplace. In some instances, even a common cold or flu can stem from having a lowered immune system due to overtaxing the body. Finding the balance between too much and too little is what can be the difference between getting results and getting fit-or getting ill and injured.

Here are some of my suggestions for effective exercising.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Workout gear
Common sense
Focus

Step 1

Sometimes slower is faster. Start off slow and increase your progression and intensity slowly. It's really easy to get caught up in the "I have to do more now" mentality-DON'T. Over the long haul you will make more gains and improvements in the way you look and feel. Remember, this is about including exercise as part of your lifestyle for your entire lifetime.
Step 2

Be consistent. Consistency is key to success and longevity. Pick a workout schedule that works for you and stick to it! Plan to eventually allow yourself one hour a day for your workouts-build up to it and then remain diligent.
Step 3

Knowledge is power. Read health and fitness books, periodicals and articles from credible sources to help you with tips, ideas and advice for your exercise program.
Step 4

Hire a personal trainer. Getting assistance from a professional can be tremendously helpful-even if it's just for a few sessions. They can help you with technique, form, suggest workouts and teach you how to monitor your progress.
Step 5

Diversify. Variety is truly the spice of life. Mix up your workouts-running, hiking, climbing, yoga, boxing, rollerblading, tennis, racquetball, basketball, softball, volleyball, bike riding and stair climbing are all examples of how to have fun while improving your level of fitness.