Try Walking for Exercise
Talk with your doctor or nurse if you have any health conditions, such as diabetes, heart problems, or asthma. He or she can help you decide what amount of exercise is safe. Tell your doctor if you have trouble breathing or any pain in your chest when you exercise.
Start slowly and build up. Stretch your muscles gently before your walk. Walk slowly for a few minutes. Speed up for 5 minutes. Then walk slowly at least 5 minutes to cool down.
If you feel OK, add 2 or 3 minutes to the quicker part of your walk every time. Work up to 30 minutes or more. Then try moving your arms or carrying small weights to increase your workout.
Work walking into your day. Walk while you do errands. Get off the bus before your usual stop. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Publication Source:
Medicaid/Fall 2007
Author:
Conaway, Brenda
Online Source:
Weight-control Information Networkhttp://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/walking.htm
Online Source:
American Heart Associationhttp://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=801
Online Editor:
Haley, Charla
Online Medical Reviewer:
Fincannon, Joy, RN, MN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Haines, Cynthia, MD
Date Last Reviewed:
9/12/2011
Date Last Modified:
10/23/2011
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