Exercises To Relieve Chronic Back Pain

Using exercises to relieve chronic back pain is most definitely effective. Chronic back problems are ones that persist over a long period of time. This could be due to several reasons and can affect many different people. It is important for you to check with your doctor before taking on any new exercise program, especially if it involves a chronic back problem. Using exercises to relieve chronic back pain can help quite a bit but, if not done properly or when your body is not ready, it can worsen the situation.

When using exercises to relieve chronic back pain you stand to experience benefits far beyond that of just helping your back. You will be positively affecting your overall well-being. You should look to take on a couple different types of exercise, one being aerobic. The goal of aerobic is, of course to help strengthen your heart but it will also have an added benefit of helping you strengthen your back and lose weight. For many people who have chronic back problems, much of it can be remedied by losing weight. The extra weight one carries puts unnecessary stain on your back.

Another to consider when wanting to use exercises to help relieve chronic back pain is yoga. Yoga involves a lot of really positive stretching moves that has the benefits of stretching out your spine and strengthening your back. It promotes the overall health of your back. Really any kind of back stretching can be beneficial but yoga provides you with quite a few postures and movements that typical stretching does not. It requires a lot of concentration and can also help you on other levels. Yoga can help you with breathing and increase your balance.
An added benefit to using exercises to relieve chronic back pain is that it helps with your out look. Having chronic back pain for a long period of time can bring depression. This comes from having to endure pain for so long, having to miss out on life and being limited to what you can do. Many people who battle depression are told to get active, to find ways to move around and to exercise. If you have problems staying positive and can see it affecting other parts of your life, then exercise will help you on many levels.

It is important, to an extent, to get plenty of rest for your back but what happens if it gets too much rest is it gets weaker. The weaker it gets, the more pain you endure and the easier it becomes to get injured. Exercising on a regular basis will not only make your body stronger as well as all the other added benefits discuss earlier, it will help you remain mobile and may help to make you even more flexible. It will also help to shorten the amount of time it takes to recover in those moments that you hurt your back again and makes those moments further and farther between. Using exercises to relieve chronic back pain will work and will help not only take the pain away, but help keep it away.

5 Stretching Exercises To Relieve Back Pain

Stretching exercises to relieve back pain can help overcome the day-to-day stress that our bodies undergo and the toll that it takes on our backs in particular. Depending on our occupation, we are forced to either stand or sit in one place for long periods of time. This poor posture and the constant compression of our spines can bring about not only short-term pain but long term problems. Correcting your posture and doing stretching exercises to relieve back pain will help remedy the situation. 

Another problem that people face is on the weekends over compensating for their lack of activity during the week by undergoing rigorous physical activities. While getting exercise is highly recommended and beneficial, it can also cause problems if your body is not ready for the endeavor. This can make your body, in particular your back susceptible to injury. Getting a little bit of exercise during the week can prevent this and also doing stretching exercises to relieve back pain.

Five stretching exercises to relieve back pain that you can do that take only about 15 –20 minutes a day will help your body recover from the stress we put on our bodies Monday through Friday. For these stretching exercises to relieve back pain you will need an elastic exercise band available at most department stores.

Low Back Stretch:

This is accomplished by sitting upright on the floor with your legs together and stretched straight out. Take the exercise band and wrap it around your feet holding on to both ends with your hands. “Climb” towards your foot using the band pulling yourself one hand in front of the other. Do this until you can feel the stretch going from your calves all the way to your spine and lower back. Hold this for 8-10 seconds breathing normally. Do this 3 times.

Quad Stretch:

Lay face down and wrap the elastic band around your toe pulling your leg towards your head. Once you feel your front thigh fully stretched, hold it for 8 seconds and then repeat two more times and do the same with the other leg.

Glutes and External Rotator Stretch:

Still laying with your back to the ground wrap the elastic band around one toe and straighten that leg, holding on to the band. Once it is extended then twist at the hip until that leg is on the ground, keeping your back as flat as can be. Hold this for the full 8-10 seconds repeating 3 times and then switch legs.

Groin Stretch:

Lay on your back with your legs almost in a split. Bend your left leg till your foot is flat on the floor. Wrap the elastic band on the right foot and gently pull with both arms. Hold this for another 8-10 seconds and then repeat 3 times. Then switch legs and do it all over again.

Hamstring Stretch:

Assume the same position as the External Rotator Stretch and instead of twisting at the hip, stay straight, with your leg straight up and pull gently back towards your head. This stretches the hamstring, which relives some of the tension from the back.

These exercises will not only make you stronger and a bit more flexible, they will also be great stretching exercises to relieve back pain.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.This blog is offering many articles and tips to stay fit. )

Never Too Late to Start Exercising

It Is Never Too Late to Start Exercising

Primary keyword: start exercising
Secondary keywords: benefits of exercise, healthy lifestyle, sedentary lifestyle, exercise for weight loss, daily exercise routine, work-life balance

---

Understanding Why Exercise Matters More as We Age

For many people, the true benefits of exercise are not fully appreciated until later in life. During childhood, physical activity happens naturally. Children run, jump, and play simply because it is enjoyable—not because they are thinking about long-term health.

As adulthood arrives, priorities begin to shift. Work, family responsibilities, and longer working hours slowly replace daily movement. Exercise, once effortless, starts to feel optional or even inconvenient. At this stage, many individuals still believe that health issues are something to worry about “later.”

Unfortunately, the body keeps score. When unhealthy habits accumulate, they often resurface years later in the form of fatigue, joint pain, weight gain, or reduced stamina. This is usually the moment when people begin to understand why maintaining a healthy lifestyle truly matters.

---

How Early Lifestyle Choices Shape Your Current Health

If you are now in your forties or beyond and experiencing recurring health problems, it is worth reflecting on past habits. Lifestyle choices made during younger years—especially poor eating habits and lack of exercise—play a major role in current physical condition.

Neglecting regular physical activity does not always cause immediate discomfort. However, over time, it can lead to muscle weakness, reduced flexibility, slower metabolism, and declining energy levels. The encouraging reality is that the body responds positively to movement at any age. It is never too late to start exercising, and positive changes can still happen even after years of inactivity.

---

The Essential Benefits of Exercise for the Body

Exercise is not only about appearance or weight management. It supports nearly every system in the body. Regular physical activity helps:

• Strengthen muscles and ligaments

• Maintain bone density and slow bone deterioration

• Improve circulation and organ function

• Enhance balance, coordination, and flexibility

• Support exercise for weight loss in a natural and sustainable way

Even individuals who work in physically demanding jobs benefit from structured exercise. Light stretching or low-impact routines can help balance repetitive movements and reduce strain.

Read 👉 weight loss program

---

Sedentary Lifestyle: A Hidden Risk in Modern Life

One of the biggest health challenges today is the rise of the sedentary lifestyle. Office workers often spend hours sitting in air-conditioned rooms, staring at computer screens with minimal physical movement.

Many skip proper breaks, eat meals at their desks, and rarely step outside during work hours. When this pattern continues for years, it can increase the risk of obesity, poor posture, muscle stiffness, and cardiovascular issues. Mental fatigue and reduced focus are also common side effects.

---

Why Busy Professionals Still Make Time to Exercise

Interestingly, people at the highest levels of organizations often prioritize exercise despite demanding schedules. CEOs and executives are frequently seen at golf courses, swimming pools, or tennis courts. This is not a coincidence.

They understand that exercise improves mental clarity, stress management, and long-term productivity. Some prefer early-morning workouts, while others exercise after work to release tension from the day. Physical activity helps balance the negative effects of prolonged sitting and work-related stress.

Read 👉 7 reasons to exercise

---

Starting an Exercise Routine Without Overwhelming Yourself

One common reason people delay exercising is the belief that workouts must be intense or time-consuming. In reality, consistency matters more than intensity. Simple activities such as brisk walking, stretching, light strength training, or cycling can already deliver meaningful health benefits.

Beginners should focus on building a habit first. Short sessions done regularly are more effective than occasional intense workouts. Over time, the body adapts, making movement feel easier and more enjoyable.

Read 👉 9 Effective Ways to Start a Healthy Lifestyle for Beginners

---

Exercise as a Key to Work-Life Balance

A well-planned daily exercise routine contributes significantly to achieving work-life balance. Physical activity helps release stress hormones, improve sleep quality, and boost overall mood. These benefits extend beyond the gym and positively affect work performance and personal relationships.

Exercise does not have to be separate from daily life. Walking meetings, short stretching breaks, or evening walks with family are simple ways to stay active without disrupting a busy schedule.

---

Final Thoughts: The Best Time to Start Is Now

Regardless of age or fitness level, choosing to move your body today is one of the most valuable investments you can make for your future health. The human body is remarkably adaptable, and positive changes can happen faster than expected.

Remember, it is never too late to start exercising. What matters most is taking the first step—and continuing, one day at a time.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.This blog is offering many articles and tips to stay fit. )

Walking is a Beneficial Exercise

Why Walking is a Beneficial Exercise ? Everyone knows that exercising regularly is good for one’s health and it also keeps the weight issues at bay. However, not everyone follows this generally accepted rule. There are a number of reasons for this. The biggest one is that they cannot find the time to work out due to their busy work life. Well, the answer to this is that you must find time for yourself. Otherwise you will never be able to take care of your health. The minimum amount of time that one should spare for exercise is 30 minutes a day. This is surely not too much to ask for if one thinks about it in a rational manner.

One of the best forms of exercise is to go for a walk. Walking is easy for people of all ages. Be it young or old, everyone has the liberty to choose their own pace, speed and limit. Added to this there are a number of benefits of opting for it as a regular exercise.

The biggest and main benefit is that through walking you can exercise all the muscles of your body. That way, from a weight loss perspective all the trouble areas are covered. Those who can do arm exercise while they are walking can quite easily tone their loose muscles as well. One such form of exercise is the march past style walk in which arms are used as well. If you do not want to do this then you can select some slow arm exercises and do them while you are out on a walk.

As it helps work out all the body muscles, walking is quite beneficial for the heart as well. The heart remains healthy and active. This is a great benefit for those who have opted for walking as a regular form of exercise. This is also one of the reasons why heart patients are told to opt for walking as a form of regular exercise to prevent further damage.

The best time to take a walk is early in the morning. This is because at that time of the day the air is fresh. Walking at that time is going to ensure that you get the maximum of oxygen in your system. This factor adds to the benefits of other exercise that you are going to do. Also starting the day with exercise is going to energize you for the rest of the day.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Group Exercises versus Individual Exercises

The most common question that health experts get is - which type of exercise is going to benefit me the most? Group Exercises or Individual Exercises? Is joining an exercise group or class more beneficial compared to working out alone in your home?

There is no one right answer to these questions. All the results that are associated with the exercises are different in the different cases. One kind of exercise or form of exercise that helps one individual the most might not work for another person and vice versa. So the next question is - what should one opt for? The answer is that one should select the option that one is comfortable with and enjoys most.

Most people do not understand why it is said that one needs to enjoy the workout that they choose for themselves. The reason is quite simple. When you enjoy what you are doing, you don’t take it as a burden and you do it with a relaxed mind. This adds to the positive results that the workout is intended to provide. The relation between the mind and the rest of the body is a very strong one and what goes in your mind does have a strong direct effect on your entire body and personality. And if you do not like the exercise you will make many excuses to not do it.

One thing to consider is that people who like to meet other people and make friends should go for exercises in a class format or join a gym. There are classes for Pilates, Yoga etc so people can choose from any of those. That way, they will be working out and making friends as well. This something that they enjoy doing so they will get good results.

On the other hand, people who are more introverted can choose to work out alone. For this they can pick one type of exercise and do it in their homes. If one can afford to buy a treadmill for exercising or for that matter any other equipment that they want to use, they should get the machine and start using it. A lot of trainers give the option of personally going to their client’s home and working out with them. Again for those who can afford it, this too is a very good option.

These are not the only options that are available. The internet is a very good source of information at your disposal. Look for the exercise guides and you will come across a number of good ones. Select the one that you like and you are good to start your healthy lifestyle and enjoy its benefits.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercising for Obesity and Cholesterol Control

You must know whether the benefits of exercise for overweight and your cholesterol. How can you know what your daily exercise routine should be? You are ready to go to the park every day but you are confused about what you should do. Trust your doctor to tell you what your daily exercise regimen should be.

A normal person first needs to take a normal walk for some time before starting to jog at a comfortable pace. Jog for some distance. Then have jogging replaced with a comfortable running pace. Always make sure that you do not tire yourself out in the first few minutes. Let the body start its calorie burning process naturally. You need to make your body ready to start the process on its own. A brisk sprint right from the time you leave home may not signal the activity that you want your body to do and this would serve no useful purpose. You would soon be tired and exhausted and nothing else would rekindle you to start exercising again.

The right way to exercise therefore is to first warm your body up. Let the natural flow of blood begin to loosen up your limbs. As you increase the pace the body works in synchronization to burn down the excess fat. The calories slowly burn off. This makes you feel very refreshed without becoming exhausted.

If going to the doctor for advice is time consuming, ensure that you find some time at home or at the office to go through some of the best websites devoted to exercising. Many well-known experts can tell you what you need to do to start exercising the right way. If you are already suffering from obesity or high cholesterol in the blood, there are some great exercises to help you ensure that they remain in check. You should consult a doctor anyway for these diseases. Exercise would be just right for you to supplement your diet and medicine intake with.

Many people often start with exercising but somehow for one reason or the other, leave it half way through. You always have to think about getting rid of your disease and for that purpose, you need to exercise. If you can afford a workout in a gym, then make it a point to be at the gym every day. It takes time for the effects to be produced, but give yourself about three to six months and you will be well on your way to a healthy body.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Benefits of Aerobic Exercise

Exercise helps build and maintain an attractive and healthy and strong muscles, bones and joints. Strengthening the training improved the ability to work more hours. The performance in sports and recreational activities, as a result of the improved focus and concentration skills of the individual.

There are many benefits associated with aerobic exercise. In general, this training helps most people to get more oxygen to all organs, tissues and cells to get their bodies for food. It is vital, rejuvenation and fills the entire system. Stay strong during the day is calculated.

Cardiovascular functions have been improved cardiorespiratory system is maintained to work in a better way. Cardiac output is obtained at the most. This means that the amount of blood pumped per minute increases. The stroke volume increased as a result. It only means that the amount of blood pumped by the heart is increased with each heartbeat. If there is circulation, a greater amount of oxygen in the blood increased to different parts of the body easily. The heart does not need to carry out the specifications for the optimal functioning of certain organs.

All these factors contribute to the healthy life of an individual. This is the ultimate secret in shape for a long time to hold. The increased blood flow to the muscles of the body and the ability to effectively use the oxygen is supplemented by many with the help of aerobic exercise. That's why people always tend to prefer outdoor exercise.

You could see that many people go for jogging in the morning and various sports on the beach. It is all with a serious purpose behind it - to consume more oxygen in the fresh air. You should definitely try to find out in the early morning hours for best results.

The benefits of exercise are too numerous to mention in just one article. It is worth to them regularly in real life rather than just read and forget. A healthy mind can be creative enough to safely and more and more to produce fresh ideas.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercise Bikes

When you decide to purchase an exercise bike, you should first find a place in your home where you can place it. Then, you will need to think about whether or not you want an upright exercise bike, a semi recumbent bike, or a recumbent exercise bike.

Once you have made the decision of which type of bike you want, check out the reviews that are available in bike magazines and also on the internet. You can also take the advice of family and friends who are currently using the same as well as personal trainers who have experience. The reviews on exercise bikes are normally rates in accordance to their performance, functions that they have, as well as the type of material that is used for constructing the exercise bikes.

The exercise bike that you choose should be very comfortable to sit on and the seat should be easy to adjust, as it otherwise it would be really hard to cycle on. If the height of the seat is wrong, it can put a lot of pressure in your lower area, specifically the groin. To find out more about these types of features, it is very important that you read a review as the reviews can give you valuable information about the features of exercise bikes.

Reviews have other advantages as well. A lot of times, websites on the internet will offer special discounts on the exercise bikes as well, which is just another benefit to reading the reviews. After you have read the reviews, you will be able to negotiate for a better price once you talk to the sales person.

No matter how you look at it, you really can not go wrong with reading a review on exercise bikes. You can find out anything you want to know, as well as get opinions from those who already own the equipment. A majority of the time, you can find out flaws as well, which can save you a lot of time and effort.

Going to local gyms is also a great way to find out about exercise bikes. If you do not want to buy one or if you do not have the space to keep one at home, you can always join a local gym and use one there. There are several different types available at your local gym, with everything from standard exercise bikes to the newer electronic versions.

Whether you choose to buy on for home use or use one at the gym, an exercise bike can help you stay in shape. All you need to do is ride it a few minutes a day, and you will be amazed at just how much it helps you. Considered to be a part of cardio, an exercise bike can help you lose weight and tone your body down like never before.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercising During Pregnancy

Everyone knows that exercise is very good for your health. During pregnancy, exercise can have many other benefits as well. Normally, exercise should be light, especially during your first few weeks of pregnancy while your body adjusts to the changes.

Any type of heavy exercise can divert the blood flow from crucial areas, and most women that exercise on a regular basis should tone down their workout regimen during pregnancy.

Swimming, walking, and yoga are three very popular exercise activities that are suitable for pregnant women. There are other forms of exercise such as weight lifting that are acceptable as long as it is not too strenuous. Most specialists recommend exercise 3 - 4 times a week, unless you have a medical condition that prevents it. If you are ever in doubt, you should consult a physician first.

Below, you will find some of the best reasons as to why you should exercise during pregnancy.

1. Exercise can help to reduce the length of labor and recovery time. The right exercise routines will also increase stamina that is needed for delivery.
2. Exercise can help reduce the side effects of pregnancy. Symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, headaches, and constipation are all common with pregnant women. Studies have shown exercise to reduce the occurrence of these symptoms.
3. Exercise can also help with weight management after the child has been born. A common concern with most mothers is the weight they lose after pregnancy. During pregnancy, exercise can make postpartum weight loss easier.
4. Exercise can also decrease the risk of premature birth. Exercise has been proven to decrease the risk of premature birth by at least 50%.
5. Improved mental health. Exercise can lower stress and improve your emotional health, making it easier for you to get through the new experience of becoming a mother.
6. Exercise is very good for your unborn baby. By keeping your body healthy, you are also looking out for your baby as well.

You should always make sure that you drink plenty of fluids before you exercise, follow a nutritious diet, and avoid over exertion. You should also listen to your body, and if you start feeling sick you should immediately stop and rest.

If you exercise during your pregnancy, you will find it a lot easier to deliver when the time comes. Exercise will assist your body strengthen up, which will make it very easy on you when you go into the delivery room. Women who do not exercise find it much harder when the time comes to give birth.

Exercising during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for yourself and for your unborn baby. Your baby will reap some of the benefits, which is reason enough to exercise. Always be safe when you exercise, and do not hesitate to ask a doctor for advice if you have any questions at all. As long as you exercise safe and use good common sense, you will do a world of good for your pregnancy.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Free Weights VS Machine exercise

Something you need to keep in mind and never forget is that when you exercise, you're training for life. You still may spend an hour a day in the gym, although that will still leave another 23 hours or so for your muscles to function without using any fancy equipment.

Whenever you do any type of exercise, the movement of your body during the exercise is known as the range of motion. The more difficult the range of motion is, the more effective the exercise will be, because your body has to work twice as hard to perform the movement.

Take for the instance the classic dumbbell bicep curl. If you're not familiar with the exercise, it is performed by standing up straight with your palms facing forward, and a pair of dumbbells held down by your sides. You will contract your biceps to bring the dumbbells up to your shoulder height, and then repeat the exercise as many times as you wish.

Using that same movement for exercise on a bicep curl machine, you should sit down, brace your upper arms on a pad, grasp 2 handles that are in front of you, and then perform the same movement as above to move the handles in an upward motion.

Now, looking at the muscle contractions in this exercise, you're contracting essentially your biceps if you're using the curl machine, and that is pretty much all you're doing. When you use the machine you are sitting down, which will limit just how much your shoulders give. The machine has several muscles used in this exercise limited to the biceps, as well as the muscles in your forearms and fingers.

Most of the time, when using machine weights, you'll always be limited as to what type of exercise you can perform. You must always follow a strict procedure, which is pretty much the same with free weights. Unlike free weights, machine weights offer a certain degree of resistance.

One of the best things about free weights is the fact that you move a little chuck around to select the weight you want to use. Instead of dragging it over to your exercise area, you simply select it on the machine. When you're tired during a workout, this can be a blessing.

A lot of people argue in the fact that free weights are the best for your body. While this is normally true, many people out there feel that machine weights are the best. There are pros and cons with both machines, although free weights have been around a lot longer and have been proven time after time to achieve dramatic results.

Body builders for example, have applied free weights over the years to build very impressive bodies. If you ask most of them about machine weights, they would probably laugh at you and tell you that you need to quit joking around.

In a nutshell, free weights will use more of your muscles than the machines do, which makes them more efficient overall. This does not mean that the machines are a waste of use, as they offer some great advantages. In some cases, it is best to stabilize the muscles that are being used in a movement, which is where machines are the best to use.

The decision on which to use for you should be based on what you hope to achieve with lifting weights and where you plan to use the equipment, such as home or at a gym. Both systems are great for your body, although the free weights are best to use if you want the best possible workout, and always ensure that your muscles are getting the correctly workouts they need.


(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercise Balls

Exercise balls are one of the most innovative ways to exercise. These little balls will catch every one's fancy due to their shape and very attractive colors. The real benefit of these balls, which were introduced by a group of Swiss medical therapists, is a substitute of support during exercise.

Working out with the exercise balls will strengthen and tone all of the major muscles of the body. The soft texture of the balls make it an ideal choice for Yoga positions, using dumbbells for muscle toning, or working on heavy duty weight training equipment.

The advantage of exercise balls is that they are durable and maintain shape well under pressure. The documentation with the balls will provide test load figures for how much weight the exercise balls will hold. The advantage here is the fact that the balls provide soft yet firm support that does not harm your body.

You can find exercise balls in several different colors and finishes. You can even get a ball that matches the texture of your room. They are simple to store and you can even roll them under your bed or a table if you prefer. When you are not using them, you can let kids play with them. These balls are very fun for kids, as they are very soft and will not cause them any harm.

Medical Equipment

Originally developed for use in medical therapy, the exercise ball is used to support the body during exercise. These balls will provide support to the body when you do a specific exercise in a specific position and still need to maintain the balance. Most exercise balls are made of burst proof latex or other material that is very safe to use.

There are many postures with yoga and muscle toning exercise that can only be done with the help of support. For these postures, exercise balls are quite useful. The exercise balls will introduce an element of stability to the exercise that you would not normally get with the floor exercise.

Your body responds automatically to the instability to keep balanced on the exercise ball. This will help in strengthening the muscles that are not actively participating in exercise.


An exercise is also very useful for physiotherapy treatment. Exercise balls will help to get rid of backache and spinal disorders. The small range of movement and adjustment of balance of the spine that is induced by exercising with the exercise ball will help reduce back pain.

The Swiss ball exercise is for people with back pain to provide them with a simple way to restore movements after an episode of back pain. It also results in improved muscle strength, greater flexibility, and a wide range of motion of the spine during treatment.

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercise and Your Complexion

As we all know and hear all the time, exercise can do a body good. It can help you to stay trim, tone muscles, and help to boost energy as well. What you probably do not know, is the fact that exercise can actually help you achieve the complexion that you have always wanted.

It is true that regular exercise will nourish the skin all over the body with fresh blood, oxygen, and nutrients. As well, the increased blood flow and circulation that come with working out will help to draw toxins out of the body and improve the condition of all your vital organs, including the epidermis.

A lot of people think that sweat can trigger acne flare ups. The fact is, sweating is great for any type of congested skin, as it helps promote the flushing of impurities from the epidermal layer and will clean out the pores. As well, vigorous exercise can actually correct the hormonal imbalances that can trigger blemishes, therefore reducing the likelihood of outbreaks.

Any physical routine that you like to do, such as yoga, spinning, running, biking, boxing, Pilates, and such, will help to lessen the stress that you encounter on a daily basis and help to prevent stress related acne.

Keep in mind that exercise may not be a miracle cure for everything, as you may still experience breakouts from time to time although your acne will certainly be less severe and last for a much shorter time frame.

Exercise is also great for other skin conditions that may or may not have to do with the presence of acne. Your skin losing its elasticity or becoming thin and less resilient is something that we all encounter. This is a common problem for may of us as we get older.

As we all get older, we start to lose collagen, which will make us look tired. As many of us do not know, physical activity can actually help to promote the growth of collagen in your skin cells, which will plump up your facial skin and make you look younger and more vibrant.

If you are worried about wrinkles, you should consider relaxation that comes after you exercise. This has the effect of making your muscles, facial muscles included, soften up. What this means, is that your lines will appear less pronounced, helping to contribute to the youthful look that you are trying to achieve.

With exercise you can achieve a smaller waist, better muscle tone, softer skin, fewer blemishes, and an overall younger, more fresher look. If you have wanted to add or change to your complexion, you should not hesitate to exercise. Exercise will help you feel more alive as well as improve your body. All you need to do is taking a little bit of time out of your schedule to exercise - it is as simple as that.


(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercise and Sleeping Better

The amount of physical exercise that you exert during the day is one of the key ingredients to helping you get a good sleep at night. The more active your body is during the day, the more likely you are to relax at night and fall asleep faster.

With regular exercise you will notice that your quality of sleep is improved and the transition between the cycles and phases of sleep will become smoother and more regular. By keeping up your physical activity during the day, you may find it easier to deal with the stress and worries of your life.

Research and studies indicate that there is a direct correlation between how much we exercise and how we feel afterwards.

You should try and increase your physical activity during the day. The goal here is to give your body enough stimulation during the day so that you are not full of energy at night.

Your body requires a certain amount of physical activity in order to keep functioning in a healthy manner. It is also important to note that you should not be exercising three or four hours before you go to bed.

The ideal exercise time is in the late afternoon or early evening. You want to make sure you expend your physical energy long before it is time for your body to rest and ready itself for sleep.

You should attempt to exercise at least three or four times a week for a period of 30 minutes or so. You can include walking or something simple. If you prefer, you can include strenuous activities such as running as well.

The goal here is to increase your heart rate and strengthen the capacity of your lungs. By adding a regular exercise activity to your daily schedule will help you to improve your overall health and help you emotionally as well.

Along with running and walking there are several other physical activities that you can add to your daily life to increase your level of physical activity. If you're battling not sleeping, you will find aerobic exercise to be the best.

Your goal with exercise is to increase the amount of oxygen that reaches your blood stream. Overall, there are many types of aerobic exercise for you to choose from. The activities include running, biking, using a treadmill, dancing, and jumping rope.

There are some non aerobic exercises that you may find beneficial to help you solve your amnesia problem.

Yoga
Yoga is an exercise that has a stimulatory effect on your nervous system, especially the brain. Yoga utilizes breathing techniques and yoga postures to increase the blood circulation to the brain, promoting regular and restful sleeping patterns. The regular practice of yoga will help you to relax as well as relieve tension and stress.

Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an ancient art of breathing and movement that was developed by the Chinese monks. The movements involved are slow and precise, which is ideal if you've joint pains or you're unable to participate in high aerobic exercises. Research has shown that Tai Chi can help with insomnia by promoting relaxation.

If you discover that you do not have any time to exercise on a regular basis, you should try to sneak moments of activity into your schedule. Whenever possible, you should take the stairs instead of the elevator, as little things like that will do wonders for your body.

You should also park your car around the corner and walk that extra block or two to get to your destination. As you may know, there are many small things you can add to increase the activity in your life. Your overall goal here is to have a healthy and well balanced life - with plenty of sleep.


(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercise And Harm

Anytime you exercise, your brain releases chemicals known as endorphins that produce a feeling of euphoria, which is known as "runners high", which is also very easy to become chemically addicted to.

Without this rush, you will feel irritable and out of it until you exercise again. Therefore, you will go on exercising and not listen to what your body is actually telling you - which is to stop.

The main reason addicts will continue to push themselves lies in what will happen when they do not work out. Normally when they are unable to exercise, they will display signs of depression, anxiety, confusion, and be less happy with themselves.

Aches and pains

Over exercising does not only affect the mind, but the body as well. Exercise will initially do what it is intended to do, give you a fit body but once you cross the line however, it can drastic. Muscle damage, osteoarthritis, and heart problems will all be waiting in the wings if you continue to overdo it. The body has limits and if you push beyond that limit, you will do nothing but harm yourself.

Obsessive exercise tends to happen among those who are new to exercise. Therefore, if you're keen to reap the benefits of getting fit, you will tend to overstep the limits.

The initial signs of over exercise are exhaustion, which can lead to a build up of fatigue. Keep in mind; it is not only the muscles that are at risk, but the bones as well. Many people who exercise push themselves to the point of injuries such as shin splints or even stress fractures, then refuse to rest, which causes greater and sometimes even permanent damage.

Even a brisk walk in the morning does not come without risk, as walking too much can lead to osteoarthritis. When you walk, you're working against gravity. Even though you are exercising your muscles, you are also harming your knee joints as well.

Many people who walk up to an hour or more everyday end up with complaints of aches in the knees. The fact is, jogging also harms the knees, and too many sit ups can hurt as well. As with any type of exercise, moderation is the key.

You should always start off gradually, and combine several different types of workouts, which is one thing that obsessive exercisers forget to do. One of the biggest complication factors of people who get addicted to exercise is that they will tend to perform the same workout each and every day, which further increases the risk of permanent damage.

Think right

You should never work out to the point where you feel completely exhausted once you have finished. Your limit with exercise should be 45 minutes to an hour, four or five days a week. When you're finished, your workout should leave you feeling fresh and energetic. Every week should make it a point to take a day's break - as your body will need to relax and rejuvenate.

The key to achieving this completely lies in your attitude, as exercising is the way to a healthy life. If you do it only to please yourself, you will defeat the entire purpose when you stand there on the weighing machine.

If you take things one day at a time and do not over do it, you will be well on your way to a healthy body. Exercising can be a lot of fun and a way to relax, if you do not rush it. Start off slow and gradually work your way up. Before you know it, you will know how to prevent injuries before they happen and you will know exactly what you need to do to remain healthy.




(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Exercise And Asthma

If you suffer from asthma, you probably think that you can not exercise properly or safely. Contrary to what many think of this subject, there are ways that you can get in shape and exercise, even if you suffer from asthma.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that is marked by characteristics such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma tends to occur with people who are genetically or environmentally predisposed to the condition.

Some of the triggers that may start or make an attack worse include exposure to allergens, viral respiratory infections, airway irritants, exercise, and exposure to things such as dust mites or cockroaches.

You can prevent asthma attacks by doing the following:

1. Bathe your pets weekly.
2. Do not smoke or permit smoking in your home.
3. When mold or pollen counts are high, you should stay inside with air conditioning.
4. Wash your bedding and any stuffed toys at least once per week in hot water.
5. Wash your hands every chance you get.
6. Get a flu shot.
7. Wear a scarf over your mouth and nose in the winter months.
8. Be proactive and know your triggers and how you should avoid them.

Now that you know what you know about asthma, you may be wondering where exercise fits in. As most doctors will tell you, you should not give up on sports or exercise at all. You just have to be smart about how you play and take special pre cautions to avoid attacks.

Almost all doctors agree that the best way to prevent attacks during exercise is to keep your inhaler and medication close by. You should never use the inhaler more than 3 times during a game or exercise session. If you're up the previous night with coughing and wheezing, it's always best to go light with your exercise the next day.

For something known as IEA (Exercise Induced Asthma), the symptoms are somewhat different, in the fact that they appear after 6 - 10 minutes of exercise and will often be worse in cold or dry air.

If you have IEA, there are several activities that you can enjoy such as swimming, walking, biking, downhill skiing, and team based sports. There are many activities for you to choose from, to ensure you get the exercise you need as well.

Keep in mind that the condition of asthma is not "all in your head"; it is a real physiological medical treatment that will require treatment to prevent and treat. Even though your doctor will be your best friend in treating asthma, you're the one who can prevent your symptoms.

Always be smart, take your medication, and be proactive. Do not let it put you in a life of misery - as you can enjoy exercise just like everyone else.



(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

The Health Benefits of Golf

Believe it or not, golf is actually good for your health. Even the United States Golf Association thinks so; they also advise that you should walk the golf course and try to avoid - as much as possible - riding golf carts.

Although riding golf carts is the most convenient way to get yourself from one hole to the next, it will actually be good for your body if you walk your legs along the greens. Doing so pumps your heart, circulates the blood all over your body, and is a good and fun way of exercising.

David Fay from the United States Golf Association also thinks that the most pleasurable way to play golf is by walking. Riding carts, he said, should as much as possible be stopped now.

Walking is a good form of exercise. It is the most basic and easy program of getting fit which almost anyone could do. Simply put, walking is good for you.

Although some believe that walking the golf course is a very unhealthy thing to do because of the nature of the game - the start and stop process of golf playing. In actuality though, there have been scientific studies as well as evidence of people actually telling their personal experiences on the positive effects of walking through a game of golf.

In Sweden in particular, there are researchers who discovered that walking through a game of golf equals to about forty to seventy percent of intense workout in an aerobics class. This is assuming that about eighteen holes were played.

In another study by a cardiologist named Edward Palank, golfers who walked were found to be in a better state of health because the level of bad cholesterol in their body decreased. Meanwhile, the level of their good cholesterol was steady. Those golfers who settled to ride their way across the golf course on golf carts, however, did not show these same positive health results.

Also, according to Golf Science International, four hours of golf playing was found to be comparable to attending a forty five minute fitness class.

Another golf association, specifically the Northern Ohio Golf Association, stated that when a golfer walks across a course, it is roughly equivalent to walking for three to four miles. This included walking around hills, over greens and tees.

Not convinced yet? Maybe you should try doing the following activities and see, as well as feel, the difference for yourself.

During a round of golf, try to walk along alternating holes so that by the end of your round of golf you should be able to have walked through a total of nine holes.

If you're feeling not up to it yet as fully as you should, that is okay. Maybe you could try walking on a set of nines while you can ride the other set.

If you have a golf partner and he or she insists that you ride along with him or her, make sure that you only ride on the path of the cart. You can then walk down to the fairway towards your ball and then your partner could bring the golf cart up.

Are you convinced yet? If not, try to look at it this way. If your health is not good enough for you to settle to walk those legs and pump that good old heart of yours, then at least take pity and be considerate of the damage that golf carts do to fairways.

Believe it or not, golf carts do create damage around sand traps and around the greens. Even if carts are not supposed to ride along these areas, sometimes though, depending on who is behind the golf cart’s wheel, they still at times do.

For the sake of the greens, go walk! Because of advances in technology, there are now grasses that are able to grow on areas that they originally are not supposed to grow on at all. As a result of this, golf courses look as amazing as they were before. Unfortunately, these same golf courses are as subject to a lot of wear and tear as well.

Driving a golf cart along these beautiful greens subjects them to unnecessary damage. So now that you know, it would not hurt you to consider walking along, across, over, or through those greens now would it?


Source : Hobby Articles

(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

You Exercise You Need Water

The human body is made up of over 75% of water, and as we all know, we cannot live without water. The fact is, we can only survive for a total of 3 days without water. Water has however, been replaced in most diets by soft drinks and other sugar sweetened refreshments. Keep in mind that water is a healthier and necessary for leading yourself towards a better health and longevity.

Your own personal need for water can vary greatly due to exercise level, your weight, and temperature. Research has proven that over 2/3 of adults do not get the water they need on a daily basis. By drinking water on a regular basis you can replenish your body and keep it well hydrated and functioning as it should be.

A majority of us wait until we are thirsty before we drink water. Keep in mind, this way is not a reliable gauge of the water needs for the body. By the time you are thirsty you have already lost two of more cups of the body's water supply. Therefore, drinking water regularly is much better than simply waiting until you are thirsty.

It is very important that you do not substitute beverages with alcohol and caffeine for water. The reason behind this is that those types of beverages act as a diuretic and can cause you to lose more weight through increased urination. You may think and feel as if you are getting more water through these beverages, although the fact is that you are letting it go almost as fast as you consume it.

Anytime you exercise, you need more water. Due to perspiration, your body will lose quite a bit of water. For each pound lost due to exercise, you need to drink 2 cups of water. Even when you lay down to sleep, your body loses water. By drinking a glass or more of water before you go to sleep, you can wake up with your body functioning as it should be.

It should become more obvious that when you are sick you will need more water than any other tine. When you get a cold or the flu, your body can become dehydrated quite quickly. You can help to prevent this by drinking more water at times when you become sick.

There are several mixed opinions as to whether purified water will actually provide benefit. This is a subject you should explore yourself as you determine the best type of water for yourself.

Always make it a habit to drink water on a daily basis. You should keep a bottle of water with you at all times and drink it throughout the day. You should also teach yourself to drink water instead of other beverages that don't replenish the nutrients your body needs.



(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Why Do Muscles Get Sore

As people age, they begin to complain more of pains in their muscles and joints. They seem to stiffen up with age, and such commonplace activities as bending over for the morning paper can make them wince.

Such pain can grip so fiercely that they are sure it begins deep in their bones. But the real cause of stiffness and soreness lies not in the joints or bones, according to research at the Johns Hopkins Medical School, but in the muscles and connective tissues that move the joints.

The frictional resistance generated by the two rubbing surfaces of bones in the joints is negligible, even in joints damaged by arthritis.

Flexibility is the medical term used to describe the range of a joint’s motion from full movement in one direction to full movement in the other. The greater the range of movement, the more flexible the joint.

If you bend forward at the hips and touch your toes with your fingertips, you have good flexibility, or range of motion of the hip joints. But can you bend over easily with a minimal expenditure of energy and force? The exertion required to flex a joint is just as important as its range of possible motion.

Different factors limit the flexibility and ease of movement in different joints and muscles. In the elbow and knee, the bony structure itself sets a definite limit. In other joints, such as the ankle, hip, and back, the soft tissue—muscle and connective tissue—limit the motion range.

The problem of inflexible joints and muscles is similar to the difficulty of opening and closing a gate because of a rarely used and rusty hinge that has become balky.

Hence, if people do not regularly move their muscles and joints through their full ranges of motion, they lose some of their potential. That is why when these people will try to move a joint after a long period of inactivity, they feel pain, and that discourages further use

What happens next is that the muscles become shortened with prolonged disuse and produces spasms and cramps that can be irritating and extremely painful. The immobilization of muscles, as researchers have demonstrated with laboratory animals, brings about biochemical changes in the tissue.

However, other factors trigger sore muscles. Here are some of them:

1. Aging and inactivity

Connective tissue binds muscle to bone by tendons, binds bone to bone by ligaments, and covers and unites muscles with sheaths called fasciae. With age, the tendons, ligaments, and fasciae become less extensible. The tendons, with their densely packed fibers, are the most difficult to stretch. The easiest are the fasciae. But if they are not stretched to improve joint mobility, the fasciae shorten, placing undue pressure on the nerve pathways in the muscle fasciae. Many aches and pains are the result of nerve impulses traveling along these pressured pathways.

2. Too much exercise

Have you always believed on the saying, “No pain, and no gain?” If you do, then, it is not so surprising if you have already experienced sore muscles.

The problem with most people is that they exercise too much thinking that it is the fastest and the surest way to lose weight. Until they ache, they tend to ignore their muscles and connective tissue, even though they are what quite literally holds the body together.

3. Immobility

Sore muscles or muscle pain can be excruciating, owing to the body’s reaction to a cramp or ache. In this reaction, called the splinting reflex, the body automatically immobilizes a sore muscle by making it contract. Thus, a sore muscle can set off a vicious cycle pain.

First, an unused muscle becomes sore from exercise or being held in an unusual position. The body then responds with the splinting reflex, shortening the connective tissue around the muscle. This cause more pain, and eventually the whole area is aching. One of the most common sites for this problem is the lower back.

4. Spasm theory

In the physiology laboratory at the University of Southern California, some people have set out to learn more about this cycle of pain.

Using some device, they measured electrical activity in the muscles. The researchers knew that normal, well-relaxed muscles produce no electrical activity, whereas, muscles that are not fully relaxed show considerable activity.

In one experiment, the researchers measured these electrical signals in the muscles of persons with athletic injuries, first with the muscle immobilized, and then, after the muscle had been stretched.

In almost every case, exercises that stretched or lengthened the muscle diminished electrical activity and relieved pain, either totally or partially.

These experiments led to the “spasm theory,” an explanation of the development and persistence of muscle pain in the absence of any obvious cause, such as traumatic injury.

According to this theory, a muscle that is overworked or used in a strange position becomes fatigued and as a result, sore muscles.

Hence, it is extremely important to know the limitations and capacity of the muscles in order to avoid sore muscles. This goes to show that there is no truth in the saying, “No pain, and no gain.” What matters most is on how people stay fit by exercising regularly at a normal range than once rarely but on a rigid routine.



(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Fitness Tips For The Working Mother

Working mothers face tremendous challenges when it comes to exercise. They can find themselves short on time, energy, and stamina. New mothers, in particular, may find it difficult to attend to their own fitness needs. However, it is entirely possible for working moms to achieve their fitness goals. All it takes is a little bit of creativity and a great deal of commitment.

First of all, working mothers must give themselves permission to exercise. They may be so busy trying to please their spouses, children, and bosses that they feel as if they don’t deserve to devote time to themselves. However, trying to be all things to all people—without taking time to safeguard one’s health—can lead to disaster. Working mothers must recognize the fact that they need to be fit in order to take care of all of their other obligations. Exercise can also help them to keep sickness and injury at bay, so that they can remain healthy over the long term.

Next, working mothers need to make a commitment to exercise. In other words, they need to make it a priority in their lives. If they don’t, they may find that too many other things stand in their way of exercising—shopping, preparing meals, getting ready for work, carpooling, and the like. They must, in a sense, make an appointment with themselves to exercise.

One of the ways to ensure that exercise is a part of a working mother’s daily routine is to take an exercise class. If you invest money in a class, you’re more likely to keep your commitment to exercise. The class can consist of aerobics, aqua-aerobics, kickboxing, modern dance—whatever appeals to you. You can take the class during your lunch break, while your children are in day care or in school. Or you might be able to squeeze in a class before work, after you drop your children off for the day. Making time for an exercise class may take a bit of schedule-shuffling, but it is well worth the effort.

If you are a new mother, you might also consider a “Mommy and Me” exercise class. These classes allow mothers to exercise with their infants. These programs fulfill a variety of functions. They can help you shed unwanted “baby weight.” They can also make it easier for you to bond with your baby. In addition, they can introduce you to other mothers who are facing the same kinds of struggles as you are. You might check with your local YMCA or YWCA to find out if there are such classes in your area.

Some working mothers also squeeze in exercise by organizing family walks. You can walk around your neighborhood while pushing a baby stroller, or encourage your school-age children to walk with you. If you keep a brisk pace, walking can be an incredibly beneficial form of exercise. You might also try walking with another working mother while your children are at their grandparents’ house or at the babysitter’s.

Working mothers face tremendous demands, both at home and on the job. Therefore, it is important that they keep fitness in the forefront to help increase their staying power. With planning and dedication, working mothers can find the exercise program that works for them.

Source: Women 2 Women
(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Yoga and Sports

Yoga and Skiing

It is incredible what yoga does for skiing. People can ski all day long and much better.

Conditioning before hitting the slopes can increase the safety and enjoyment of the sport. Most ski injuries occur early in the day when muscles are tight and enthusiasm is high, and late in the day when muscles are weakened and technique is poor.

A simple yoga exercise called the awkward pose, can increase your strength, balance and concentration which will make the ski season more rewarding.

It consists of three variations which are done sequentially.

To begin, stand with the feet apart, about shoulder width, an even distance (approximately six inches) between your heels and toes. Extend the arms out in front of you parallel to the floor with the shoulders pressed down and away from the head. Keep the upper body strong and firm in this position.

Bend your knees and shift the weight back into the heels, pushing the buttocks out behind you. When the top of the thighs are parallel to the floor and arms, hold your pose. The feet should be held parallel and the knees should only be shoulder width apart.

One good way to think of getting into this pose is to imagine that you are sitting in an invisible chair leaning back to bring the spine and shoulders against the back of the chair. The arm muscles are contracted, the abdomen is held tight and your breathing should be normal. Hold the pose for twenty seconds. Stand up.

The second part of this series is similar to the first. Keep the upper body the same as before and stand straight up onto the balls of the feet, standing as high as possible with the arches pressed forward. To keep the ankles strong and straight, press down with each big toe. Now, bend the knees again keeping the spine straight and stop when the quadriceps is parallel to the floor. Hold this pose for twenty seconds. Stand up. You will find this second pose a bit more difficult.

Third, assume the same basic pose with upper body firm and strong. Again, slowly bend the knees and this time sits all the way down lightly onto the heels. Now press the knees together and hold the body still. The quadriceps is again level with the floor and the spine is straight. Hold again for twenty seconds. Stand up out of the pose slowly, bring the heels down and relax. Do not forget to do a second set of all three poses.


Yoga and Tennis

Tennis requires cat-like reflexes with short bursts of strength. These short movements do not allow the muscles to extend their full length. When muscles are strenuously worked they become tight and can lose their elasticity unless properly stretched. Yoga exercises can increase the body's range of motion. The lack of movement because of inflexibility binds the joints. Without the elasticity of the muscles, I think an athlete can be a prisoner within his own body.

Using yoga techniques makes it possible to retrain the muscles. Most tennis athletes play in a constant state of muscle tension. Yoga trains the body to relax muscle tension. Learning to begin your game in a relaxed state could mean gaining an extra step on the ball.

When in a ready position muscles are contracted and ready for action. To move, muscles must be relaxed and then contracted again to spring in any direction. By retraining the muscles you begin from a relaxed position, giving a quickened reaction time.

Yoga breathing exercises can help improve endurance and stamina. When exerting in sports or exercise we often hold the breath as a way to create strength. Yoga trains the body to create strength through breathing control. Holding the breath at points of exertion takes a great deal of energy that could be used during long sets or matches.

Learning the correct way while doing a yoga pose is simple. Exhale during the execution of a pose until you feel the muscles' full length of stretch (maximum resistance). Never hold your breath. Breathe normally and listen to the body. Hold for 30 seconds, then release the pose slowly. By constant practice of yoga poses you'll soon apply breathing techniques in everyday routines.

A simple spine twist is excellent for rotational sports. It can help increase needed flexibility of the shoulders and back and hips. Remember to apply the breathing technique to this pose.

Begin the spine twist by sitting on the floor with both legs straight out in front of you. Keeping the spine straight, bend the left leg placing the left foot on the outside of the right knee. Now, place the left hand on the floor behind you with your arm straight and the right elbow bent. Positioned on the outside of the left thigh place the right hand on the left hip.

Slowly exhale while turning the head and upper body to the left, looking over the left shoulder. Pressure from the right arm should keep the left leg stationary while pressure from the left arm and torso gives you the twist. Stronger use of both arms increases the twist. Hold this pose for 30 seconds and repeat twist on the opposite side.

A total body conditioning and flexibility routine is essential for the avid tennis player. Yoga techniques could be the edge you need in developing your game.



(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)

Choosing the Right Exercise for You

The type of exercise you do all depends on you and what you like to do. What you hate doing, paying membership fees, and whether or not to buy equipment are all things you need to consider as well as answer.

If you choose something that you do not like to do, you are not going to keep doing it for a long period of time. Give it some thought - if you do not like jogging, you are not going to get up at 6 AM and go running. If you can not find something you like to do, choose something you hate the least, which will normally be walking.

Walking is great exercise, as it suits all levels of fitness. Anyone can start a walking program at any time; it's normally the intensity and duration that differs. Walking is also a social exercise, as it is not difficult to find a training partner to chat with while you exercise. Walking with a partner will also make time go by faster.

No matter what exercise you choose, you should start at a low level of intensity and build it up over a period of weeks, which is essential to the longevity of your exercise program. If you start off too hard, you could end up with an injury which will require time off to get over.

If you are really in bad shape, you should start off by walking for 10 minutes each day. Then, increase it by five minutes every two weeks. To make things more interesting, you should try walking a different course every few days. You can also roster a different friend to walk with you each day of the week.

If walking is not your thing, then you may want to try a fitness center. They have loads of variety and normally have trainers on hand to answer any questions you may have. When you choose a fitness center, make sure that they give good service.

If they are not willing to treat you well before you join, then they certainly won't after you join. You should also make sure that the equipment they use is well taken care of. It's easy to find out, as all you have to do is listen to the machines. If they squeak a lot or make noise, then chances are they are not being taken care of.

If you still are not sure what you should do, then you should look into golf or tennis. Both are good social activities in most areas, and you can even meet new friends. Tennis is great for fitness although it is not for someone who is just starting out. If you have not exercised in a long time, then golf may be the best activity for you.


(Note: This article is the opinion of the author and may or may not be substantiated by scientific fact.)