10 Health Fitness Tips
By Michael Fortomas
More than any other time in history, people are all trying to have the best,
healthiest body possible. The health and fitness industries are making billions
of dollars every year on herbal supplements, fitness equipment, gyms, and special
diets. If you watch TV or read magazines, there is always some intriguing commercial
asking for money to help you get into shape.
Now that you have made a commitment to take care of your body, both internal
and external, it is critical to your overall health that you do it the right way.
Here are some tips for both health and fitness that will help you lose weight, discover
ways to maintain a better healthy lifestyle, and be in the best shape of your life
– all the smart way!
1. Bicycling
When you ask many adults when the last time they rode a bike is, they cannot
answer. Although bicycling is a favorite pastime, many adults do not take advantage
of this great option for exercise. Not only does bike riding exercise the body and
build a stronger cardiovascular system, it allows you to get out and enjoy nature,
fresh air, and see new sites.
2. Jogging or Walking
Both jogging and walking are GREAT ways to get fit. Not only do they tone the
muscles, relieve stress, create a healthier heart, and improve lung capability,
they make you look wonderful, which in turns helps you get excited about doing other
exercise for fitness.
3. Swimming
Swimming is an excellent way to get into and stay in shape. If you do not own
a pool, many high schools have aquatic centers, or there is always the YWCA or YMCA,
or your local gym. Many offer water aerobic classes that will help you tighten your
body, lose weight, and get a good overall workout.
4. Tennis Anyone
Tennis is not only a fun sport, but also a great way to exercise. You do not
have to be a Venice Williams to play; in fact, you do not even have to be good.
Just running after the ball alone will help get you into shape. This is a great
way to strengthen your cardiovascular system and lose weight. You can find tennis
courts in just about every city and if you would like to play but have no idea how,
lessons are reasonable.
5. Dancing
Dancing is so much fun and whether you enjoy a slow, Ballroom dance or a nightclub
packed with people all moving to heart-pumping techno, as long as you are moving,
it really does not matter what type of dance or music. The whole idea is to move
your body. Dancing has long been recommended as an avenue to fitness.
6. VCR
If you have a VCR or DVD, rather than just using it for your favorite comedy
or action-packed movie, try sticking in some good workout tapes. Even taking 15
minutes every day to workout will get you started. Try that for two weeks and you
will be surprised at the results. Once you see that 15 minutes a day makes a difference,
you will be encouraged to increase the time spent.
7. Abdominal Crunches
While you may not end up with a washboard stomach, you can do some things to
get your abdomen in better shape. Crunches have long been a favorite for many athletes
for the very reason that they work. Lying on your back with knees bent, keeping
feet flat on the floor, cross your hands across your chest and then curl your torso,
rolling from your sternum toward your hips. Do this slowly and start out with a
set of ten crunches in three reps. In other words, do ten crunches, wait a minute,
do ten more, wait a minute, and then do the final ten. As you get accustomed to
these, you can increase both the number of sets and reps.
8. Squats
Squats are excellent for glutes, hamstrings, quads, and calves. With your feet
standing firm and spread apart about two feet, bend your knees slightly. Then, very
smoothly, you will squat toward the floor without going all the way down. This usually
takes some practice but within a short period, you will enjoy the benefits.
9. Tricep Press
Having firm arms is something that many people focus on when exercising. For
an Overhead Tricep Press, standing on the floor with your feet about two feet apart,
knees slightly bent, you will extend your arms over your head. Keep your elbows
locked and then very slowly lower your hands behind your head. You want to do this
with some type of weight, but small weights like one to five pounds. If you do not
have weights of your own, you can hold a one-pound of vegetables, which will work
perfectly.
10. Get to the Gym
Working out at home is a good option and for some people, they are committed
enough to actually make it work. However, for the majority of people wanting to
get into shape, the inspiration, competitiveness, and encouragement received from
working out in a gym is the way to go. Although it will require a small investment,
make the decision to find a gym that offers state-of-the-art equipment, qualified
staff, and fun classes where you can enjoy working out.
By taking care of your body through good health habits and fitness, you will
live a happier, better, and longer life!