Finding the Right Fit
Your life is not one-size-fits-all, so why should your workout be? It is
practically impossible to escape advertising for a seemingly endless number
of fitness trends, but just because a workout is popular or works for
someone else does not necessarily mean it is the best fit for you.
Starting Out
When starting a fitness routine, it is important to focus on what fits
your unique lifestyle, interests, and fitness level. The first step to
starting any new exercise program is to consult your doctor. A healthcare
professional can help you determine what forms of exercise are safe for
you and can help you reach your personal fitness goals
What's Comfortable
Next, think about the kinds of physical activity you enjoy. The best workout
is one that you can do consistently and stick with in the long run. Start
with familiar activities you like. If you don't like going to the
gym, try hiking, riding a bike, or playing a game of tennis.
Try Something New!
You could find an activity you love by learning to windsurf, play ultimate
Frisbee, or ballroom dance and get a great workout at the same time.
Start Gently
If you are more of a couch potato or are out of shape, start slow and work
on incorporating movement into your daily routine.
Gear Up!
Making sure that you are well-equipped for the types of activities you
do can help you to avoid injuries and give you maximum results.
A Few Guidelines
Make sure that you choose shoes that fit well and are appropriate for your
body type and activity. Some stores will help you analyze your feet and
stride to help you get the right fit. Don't skip the protective gear.
Wear appropriate helmets, padding, sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats.
What to Wear
Wear proper workout clothing. Make sure that you choose garments made of
soft materials with few or covered seams to avoid uncomfortable chafing.
Also, choose activity-appropriate clothes: avoid baggy pants when cycling
and flowy tops for yoga poses, and be sure to buy pieces you can layer
during colder months if you exercise outdoors.
Don't Forget the Girls!
For women, wearing a proper sports bra can help to avoid discomfort and
maximize your fitness routine.
Be sure to:
Get measured to find the right fit - most women do not wear the correct size.
Choose a bra that works well for your body. Classic compression sports bras work best for women with small to medium
breasts (A and B cups), while women with larger breasts would do better
with an encapsulated sports bra that separates and supports each breast.
Fitness Tech
Try using fitness technology to stay motivated and track your progress.
There are hundreds of devices and apps that can help you to keep track
of your fitness goals, show your progress, and even make fitness suggestions.
From the simple to the truly high tech, there is a fitness gadget for
everyone! We here in the Marketing and Communications Department like
Fitbit and Noom Coach.
Don't Forget!
Be sure to discuss a fitness routine with your doctor before beginning,
especially if you have any injuries or medical conditions.
Take your time: When starting a new exercise routine, start slow and work up to longer,
more intense workouts. Always warm up and cool down with stretching and
slower walking.
Listen to your body: If you experience pain, dizziness, or are short of breath, be sure to take
a break. If these feelings persist, seek medical help immediately. If
you aren't feeling great or are pushing yourself too hard, it is good
to take a few days off to avoid injury.
Be creative: Don't forget to change up your routine and try new things. Try getting
the entire family together on the weekend to keep each other motivated
and have fun together.
Don't Be Shy, Ask for Help!
An exercise professional can help you customize a new routine, try new
activities, and cross-train. Cross-training helps you to exercise different
muscles, avoid injury through overuse of one muscle or joint, and can
help give you a more complete workout to include strength, cardio, and
flexibility activities.