As we age our bodies change dramatically. We tend to lose muscle tone and to gain more weight. When we are not active and tend to be more sedentary, we feel more fatigue and possibly find if difficult to sleep at night. As our bodies age, we must make changes in our lifestyle to keep up with these damaging effects of aging.
There are many benefits to getting a good nights sleep. Most medical professionals suggest that we get 8 hours of sleep each night. When you wake up in the morning, after 7 to 8 hours of sleep, you will have more energy to enjoy the day ahead. You will be able to make easier, better decisions- all with less stress.
Everyone has heard, sometime during their lifetime, exercise is one of the keys to good health. Exercise has many benefits including burning excess calories, decreasing stress, a healthier heart and an overall better outlook on life. When you participate in an exercise program you will sleep better. Imagine waking up everyday with more energy and looking forward to what lies ahead that day. One of the best exercises most everyone can do is walking.
Start your walking exercise program after consulting with your physician or medical professional. A good time to walk would be in the mornings, shortly after you wake up. Start walking a short distance at a moderate pace. Gradually increase the distance you walk and your pace. Maybe you can start by walking around the block, then around two blocks, three blocks, etc. If the pace becomes too laborious and you perspire excessively, then slow it down. Your goal should be to work up to a distance and brisk pace that will result in a walk of about 25 to 30 minutes at a minimum- and this should be performed 3 to 5 times each week. It is very important, after each walking (exercise) session, make sure you cool down. The faster the rate at which you walk, the faster your heart rate will be. You want to walk slower at the end of your workout to enable your heart rate to return to normal as you cool down.
It will be difficult getting up early in the morning and walking 3 to 5 times week in and week out. You have to have a positive attitude with any exercise program. Keep reminding yourself of all the positive benefits. After the first month, or so, you will see changes. Just look in the mirror. You will be less stressed and have a lot more energy. Ask one of your friends to join you in your walking program. Invite them to join you and tell them all the great benefits you have enjoyed as a result of walking.
Don’t wait to get started . You will feel a lot better- physically and mentally!
Tags: excess calories, heart rat, lifetime exercise, moderate pace, walking exercise