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Lifestyle Management
   
Nutrition
Making Exercise a Part of Your Life
Exercising Your Benefits
A "Well Rounded" Exercise Program
Stretching Guidelines and Exercises
Exercise Tips
Managing Stress
Smoking Cessation
Coping with Cardiovascular Disease
Lifestyle Management
 


 
Getting started and keeping at it
There's no doubt that maintaining a regular exercise program requires commitment. Here are some tips to keep you motivated:
  1. Establish a minimum number of sessions per week. Vary extra sessions from week to week. If you want to skip a day now and then, don't worry about taking a break. As you exercise, remember that in general, a good aerobic workout should increase your heart rate for at least 20 minutes.
  2. If possible, do a number of different activities. Walk, run, bike, swim, jump rope, and try aerobics. Do any activity that is appealing and not prohibited by your doctor. Variety will help keep you motivated.
  3. Cycle your training. Alternate long and short sessions with easy and difficult workouts. It not only adds variety, it gives your body a rest from tough workouts.
  4. Alternate exercising alone, with a partner, and with a group. A different atmosphere may keep you from getting bored.
  5. Plan in advance. Make an exercise schedule and commit to it. Write down your schedule and check off days that you exercise. Meeting your plan will give you a sense of accomplishment. It will also help you as you approach the holidays or go on trips to plan your exercise program.
  6. Challenge yourself. Even finishing an extra half lap when you're tired can be a victory. Everyone is different, so your challenge will be a personal goal. Be persistent and realistic. A goal set too far out of reach will be frustrating.
  7. Pat yourself on the back after completing each session. Good job!
Sometimes the hardest part of an exercise program is the first step. Ask your doctor for a referral to a cardiac rehabilitation program in your area. A good program can help you develop and maintain an exercise habit. You'll receive encouragement not only from exercise physiologists and trainers, but from people just like you who are exercising and changing their lifestyles. For more information on the MHVI Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, call 734-712-5224.

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