Exercise a word that can strike fear into even the bravest of couch potatoes. Not to worry its time to get over the intimidation of the hot hard bodies of the infomercial world and turn off that TV.
Although joining a fitness club is a popular choice to get in shape it is definitely not for everyone. And it doesn’t need to be. Exercise is just another word for getting your body in motion and let’s face it, not everyone likes pumping iron or pretending there a hamster running on a treadmill. So they often choose to stay in the security of their couch not knowing where to start.
First of all it’s easier and more fun than you may think. How much exercise do you need? Adults need a minimum 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as a brisk walk, swimming or water aerobics, riding a bike on level ground with a few hills, playing tennis or even giving your gardener the day off and mowing your own lawn. You also need muscle-strengthening activities on a minimum of 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). There are many ways you can strengthen your muscles, whether it’s at home or the gym. You may want to try the following: using resistance bands, heavy gardening, use your body weight for resistance such as Push-ups park in the back of the parking lot and take your own groceries out to the car.
If even this still has you clinging to your couch with white knuckles, start even slower go to the mall and walk, (you may want to leave your credit cards at home). Find a park that has stairs or beach and walk, and best of all invite a friend to join you and enjoy sharing some long over do conversation without texting, while getting some fresh air and you know “exercising”.