Working With An Exercise Program

May 24, 2010 - PRLog -- When starting an exercise program consider the following:

Health benefits

A customised exercise program is a great way to stay fit and it provides a wide range of physical and mental benefits, including:
• Improved condition of the heart and lungs
• Increased muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness
• Increased aerobic fitness
• Improved muscle tone and strength
• Weight management
• Better coordination, agility and flexibility
• Improved balance and spatial awareness
• Increased physical confidence
• Reduced risk of chronic disease
• Improved sleep
• Improved general and psychological wellbeing
• Greater self-confidence and self-esteem.

Before you get started, it will help if you have your fitness level assessed. You probably have some idea of how fit you are. However, assessing and recording baseline (starting) fitness levels can give you benchmarks (points of comparison) against which to measure your progress. Be sure to have checked:

• Your waist circumference at the level of your navel
• Your body mass index (BMI). This is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in metres.
• Body Fat Percentage
• Hydration Levels
• Lean Muscle Mass Calculation
• Metabolic Age

Be involved in the design of your fitness program, some key points to keep in mind are:

• Consider your goals. Are you starting a fitness program to lose weight or for some other reason?
• Think about your likes and dislikes. Choose activities you’ll enjoy.
• Plan a logical progression of activity. If you’re just beginning to exercise, start cautiously and progress slowly.
• Build activity into your daily routine. Schedule time to exercise as you would any other appointment.
• Think variety. Varying your activities (cross-training) can keep exercise boredom at bay.
• Allow time for recovery.
• Put it on paper. A written plan may encourage you to stay on track.

Monitor your progress. Have yourself assessed at six to eight week intervals after you start your program. You may need to increase the amount of time you exercise in order to continue improving. On the other hand, you may be pleasantly surprised to find that you’re exercising just the right amount to meet your fitness goals.

Things to remember

• A customised exercise program is a great way to stay fit and it will bring a wide range of physical and mental benefits.
• Start slowly and build up gradually and monitor your progress.
• If you lose motivation, set new goals or try a new activity. Exercising with a friend or taking a group class may help.
• See your doctor for a check-up and have your fitness level assessed by a qualified professional.

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Connect Fitness is a not for profit organisation located on the grounds of the University of Western Sydney with 4 Gyms now in operation over the Kingswood, Hawkesbury, Bankstown & Campbelltown campuses.