Somebody contemplating starting a new exercise regimen asked me the question “what is the best exercise programme for me?” Not a simple question to answer. The kind of programme you use will depend on your goals and what you want to get out of that programme. Do you want to lose weight, gain muscle, tone up, get into shape for a special event or sporting activity or just want to improve your overall health and wellbeing?
If it is that you want to lose weight, but aren’t a regularly active, then you’ll want to start with a low impact cardio vascular workout, for about 30 minutes a day. If 30 minutes is too challenging, try splitting it into two 15 minute workouts if you have the time. If your goal is to build muscle there is an abundance of options in terms of routines, and equipment that are available, but the same rule applies, especially if you’re just starting off. Start light and work your way up both in terms of level of resistance and the duration of your workout. The type of equipment you use will depend on a number of factors including your budget, comfort level and experience, and whether or not you have a gym membership. Some people don’t feel comfortable using free weights and prefer machines. Others prefer body weight exercises. If your goal is to improve your overall health then you will need to include a flexibility element as well, such as yoga.
Once you’ve determined your goal, you need to decide how to get there. A good personal trainer can help you with that. Most likely the trainer will ask you to have a thorough physical examination done by a doctor to determine your ability to follow a fitness or exercise programme, as well as any health problems which they need to be aware of and which will influence the type of programme or exercises you can do safely. They will need to know if you have any pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol diabetes or heart disease. As a Nutrition Specialist even food allergies are important to know in planning meals for my clients.
Once you’ve done that then you need to decide where you will work out - at a gym, at home, indoors or out. Its all about convenience and comfort here. Exercising at home is economical and convenient if you have the space and equipment or the means to get them. Your home doesn’t close down and you can exercise any time you want to. Some people prefer the privacy it gives them as opposed to the crowded gym with people looking on. Others feed off of the crowd and feel more comfortable in that sort of environment or group setting.
I work out from home because I don’t have the patience to wait around for free equipment at a commercial gym. But for the first time in my life I’ve bought a gym membership because my goals have changed and I don’t have the space at home or the equipment I need to meet those goals, nor am I prepared at the time to make the investment in purchasing the additional equipment I think I need.
The health club or gym gives you more options in terms of equipment and exercises you can perform, as well as guidance from qualified instructors or more experienced members.
Whether at home or at the gym fit exercising into your schedule. Set a time and stick to it no matter what. Decide early on whether you prefer working out alone and have the discipline and commitment to pull it off or if you need the stimulation and inspiration of others around you. Pick what works best for you and your lifestyle, but most importantly don’t ignore a proper and healthy diet.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR; Kendal Burton is a Certified Personal Trainer, Yoga Instructor & Sports Nutrition Specialist. For more health and fitness tips “friend” us on Facebook, or join our free fitness community atwww.edgepersonalfitness.com. If you have any questions, or a topic you’d like us to address email us at mail@edgepersonalfitness.com
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