Aerobics Tips !

Ever tried an aerobics class? It's one sport where everyone who participates WINS! And it's not a spectator sports (although I can't tell you how many times I've chased away gawkers). Whether you enjoy jazzercise, high impact, low impact, kickboxing, or if you haven't tried any yet - this information can help motivate you to your best workout.

WARM UP AND COOL DOWN

You should consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program. To prevent injury always warm up and cool down your body before and after every workout or training like aerobic dance, swimming, weight lifting, or biking.

A warm up consists of a few minutes of continuous rhythmic movement (like walking) to increase the heart rate and circulation, then stretches for the major muscle groups you plan to use. Stretching gets the circulation going in every muscle fiber, so they are ready to work, freshly fed with oxygen, and less likely to be injured during exercise. It's a good idea to stretch the abdominal, waist, chest, and back muscles, in addition to major leg muscles.

A cool down consists of slowly letting the heart rate return to non-exercising rate (a fast drop could make a person pass out), and stretching the major muscle groups. We need to stretch after exercise to remove the lactic acid which is a by-product of burning fuel (fat) aerobically. Lactic Acid makes muscle sore if it sits in the muscle instead of being cleared out by deep stretches after a workout.

This is not intended as medical advice which should be obtained directly from your doctor.

Tips for Finding a Class

The YMCA is always a good place to start when you are looking for classes you can join for just a day. Some health clubs offer a "day membership" so you can tour the facility and try out some classes or equipment. Another place to check is the local park district. They often offer convenient classes at neighborhood parks or schools.

Trying a class for one day is good way to sample the varieties and test for many things. You want to find a group that exercises at your level (not too advanced or too easy for you). You can experiment with different times (the lunch class, the evening class, the weekend class) and try a variety of different times and options until you find something you really like.

Find a Beginners class and start there. If the coordination is still too difficult for you, talk to the instructor for extra tips and maybe even trying a differnt instructor of another Beginners Class. Aerobics can be a lot of fun, a great way to make new friends, and it makes you look and feel better as you fitness level increases.

This is not intended as medical advice which should be obtained directly from your doctor.

Tips for a Better Workout

Take deep breaths.

Get your arms moving.

Take a short walk for the pure pleasure of it.

Have fun!

Get things done!

Dance when you dust.

Play upbeat music.

Wear good athletic shoes.

Control and enjoy your movement.

Control and enjoy your body.

This is not intended as medical advice which should be obtained directly from your doctor.