Get Into a Routine

Photo By: demontesino

Get Into a Routine
By Jessica Watts

Today the word 'exercise' creates anxiety and fear amongst most, but what is this truly based upon? This is based on the thought that it is unenjoyable, time consuming and extremely hard work. Contrary to these beliefs, however, there is much to be enjoyed and to be gained from putting a little physical activity into your life.

First you just need to look at your daily routine and see where it fits in. Its nice to put it into your routine to make it less time consuming and to make it part of your day. I personally like to make time in the morning; it helps to wake me up, its good to start your metabolism before breakfast, and the rest of the afternoon is free for myself and errands I may need to take care of.

Next you need to find an activity that you enjoy, such as, a sport (tennis, basketball, etc), group activity (walk-a-thons), or just something you enjoy (walking, weights, bicycling). Group activities can help to motivate you by being around peers and others who are enthusiastic and can make exercise fun. Also, if you find a sport you enjoy, such as tennis, you can play with a family member or friend. For parents this is also a great way to connect with a child while supporting and integrating a healthy lifestyle for your children.

Some types of exercise that don't take long, but can help boost your metabolism and energy level are:

• Pilates/Yoga - there are videos and DVDs out there that only take about 30 minutes, but they will stretch you out, get your blood pumping and help increase your energy level.
• Speed Walking - this helps increase your blood circulation and with hand movements it gets your whole body into it for a full workout.
• Jogging/Running - although this is the hardest to get up to it is a great way to work out the whole body and lose weight. This helps work the legs, arms, and core of the body as you propel yourself. For a maximum workout you should run on a track, but there is also the treadmill and eliptical machines (eliptical only works out the legs). If you do decide to run on the track, however, make sure you have some of the best shoes and run on an actual track, the road is not meant to cushion your joints and can have bad effects on your knees.
• Light Weight Lifting - just some 5 to 10 pound weights to work out the arms, abdomen, and legs. You can incorporate them into squats, lunges, situps, thrusts, bicep curls, tricep dips, and so many more types of exercise to help get your heart rate up and get in shape.

These types of exercise only take up approximately 30 minutes of your day and can be incorporated during any part of the day. If you desire better results you can increase the duration, intensity or number of times you exercise per day. If you have any serious health issues please ask your doctor before trying any types of strenuous activity.

Combining exercise into your daily routine will be not only physically, but also emotionally rewarding. This is one of the best things you can do if you want to start a healthy lifestyle and tune up your life.