Where to Start?

As you sit on your couch and watch TV you may notice a walker or jogger go by your window and think to yourself, "I wish I could get out and exercise, but where do I start?" By making the decision to start exercising, you have already overcome one hurdle and can be well on your way to a healthier lifestyle by starting with just a few simple changes. Don't try to do EVERYTHING all at once or you may just be setting yourself up for failure right away.

Here are a few tips on how to get started and hopefully help maintain exercise as a regular part of your life. (Remember, before you start any exercise regimen, it's good to check with your primary healthcare provider first.)

          1. Pick an activity/exercise that you enjoy.
          2. Remember doing something is better than doing nothing. Even if you do the exercise for 5-10 minutes, it's still better
              than not doing anything at all.
          3. Set goals - make sure they are clear, realistic and concise.
          4. Start low and go slow. You can always increase as you get stronger.
          5. It's important to warm up before exercising and stretch after you are done exercising when your muscles are warm.
          6. You don't have to go to a gym to exercise!
          7. Find a friend.
          8. Make it simple and part of your daily routine.

Here at Ida Alive, we are not asking everyone to be able to run a 5k or do a marathon; exercise in any form has proven to be beneficial. There are numerous benefits to exercise, but sometimes it can be intimidating to start. Your "take away" from this message is to start slow, and any exercise is better than no exercise!

By
Erin Dausel BSN, RN
Horn Community Health
Horn Memorial Hospital