How to Move Your Body

People of all ages benefit from regular movement.

The American Heart Association stresses the importance of increasing movement as a means of reaching and achieving a healthy body weight. The good news about this information is that movement does not have to be strenuous or taxing to be beneficial. Starting slow affords you benefits almost immediately by contributing to a healthier heart.

Instructions

1. Insert additional movement into your already set routine. Moving more does not have to start with fitness classes or morning runs. Start by moving more in the things you already do. Take a few flights of stairs rather than riding the elevator or escalator. If a store that you frequent is within walking distance, strap on your sneakers and walk down to pick up a few items rather than driving. Add a few extra blocks to the route you normally take when walking your dog. With some creative thinking, you can institute movement and activity into your day almost effortlessly.

2. Join up with a friend who has fitness goals similar to your own. Having accountability to someone else can motivate you to stick with an exercise program. The activity that you choose can be walking, jogging, running, or an organized class at a gym. Whatever you choose, set days and hours that you will exercise together and then hold one another responsible for sticking with the plan.

3. Use variety to keep you motivated. Varying your routine will help you avoid boredom and make it more likely that you will remain active and committed to moving your body on a regular basis. Play a new sport with your kids, take up swimming, ride a bike, or join a dance class. Anything that keeps you moving will benefit your body and health. Even if you only change up the activity you are already engaged in, you can keep yourself from getting burned out on exercise. It is also helpful to periodically increase the intensity of your movements to challenge yourself and prevent reaching a plateau in your exercise benefits. Take a different route for your walk, run, hike, or bike ride which adds hills or inclines that make you work a little harder.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult with your health care professional before beginning or participating in any new exercise regimen or physical activity.

References

• American Heart Association: Tips