So how do you get more from exercise?

Variety. Think about exercise as activity. There are many different activities available to you, so consider which of these activities you can start or continue to incorporate into your life. Some examples would be walking or biking more often to work or school; hiking; going to an exercise/yoga/martial art class; swimming at a local pool; jogging; going kayaking/canoeing; going to the gym; joining a team or taking up a sport; and planning a trip/event with friends or a local organized group with an activity as the major focus.

Your list should be long enough that it includes at least 5 or 6 different activities that you enjoy or believe you would have fun doing. From there, decide which of these you will put into the next week's routines (remembering to be realistic). Stick to your schedule as best you can, and be sure to include a backup activity idea in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen change. Try to include at least three different activities each week, and alternate between your favorite exercises. Remembering to keep an eye out to try something new and dare to say "yes" when friends invite you to take part in a sporting engagement.

When you're in the Gym

The gym provides an unending opportunity to try new and different exercises. Many of us have a regular routine that we have come to be fond of following each time we head to the gym. This includes the Monday/Wednesday/Friday and Tuesday/Thursday routines (sometimes Saturday or Sunday are added in) that often are the only variety people allow themselves. Start looking at all of the different equipment and classes your gym offers. There are often several machines that work the same muscles, so ask your gym to have someone show you around.

Try to use a different machine once a week for each of the major muscle groups. Look at the dumbbell racks and make a specific routine for the free-weights for each of the muscle groups, and set up 1 day/week that you use only dumbbells and free-weights. Mix it up, but always with a theme!

Much of the recent literature discusses the health benefits from activity that is light to moderate. So when you consider your activities, put an emphasis on enjoyment, and keep it interesting by trying to do different exercises on different days. To improve your health through fitness, just put more "active" in your daily activities and remember to have fun doing it!

Good Luck & Keep It Up! Darren Rieck Fitness Expert & Venice Beach Model
Founder/Publisher: HEALTH and FITNESS .com
Author: Integrative Fitness Lifestyle Health Guide with Fitness Advice & Programs

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