Every exercise program should include some aerobic activities. The health benefits are many, and it is fairly easy to fit into your daily routine. If you are interested in increasing your aerobic activity, this information will get you started.
In aerobic exercise, you continually move large muscle groups, such as legs, arms, and buttocks. This action causes you to breathe more deeply and your heart to work harder to pump blood, thereby strengthening your heart and lungs.
Aerobic exercises include:
Before starting an exercise program, check with your doctor about any possible medical problems. If you are new to exercise, consider making an appointment with a certified athletic trainer to help you develop a safe, effective, and enjoyable exercise program. You can find a trainer at a local gym or through a referral from your doctor or a friend.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers these guidelines for exercise:
Tips for getting started:
RESOURCES:
American College of Sports Medicine
http://www.acsm.org/
American Council on Exercise
http://www.acefitness.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology
http://www.csep.ca/english/view.asp?x=1/
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html/
References:
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine website. Available at: http://www.sportsmed.org/tabs/Index.aspx .
Key recommendations for the general public. US Department of Agriculture website. Available at: http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2005/recommendations.htm. Updated May 2008. Accessed May 18, 2010.
Physical activity. American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home.html . Published 2006. Accessed September 3, 2008.
Last reviewed May 2010 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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