Back to School or Back to the Gym?!?!?! The Do's and Don'ts of Starting an Exercise Program!!

DO’S & DON’T’S CHECKLIST

DO’S!!!!!_____________________________________________________________________

• Write down your fitness goals. You’re more likely to stick with a program once you have set some specific goals.
• Always strive to eat a well- balanced dietthat includes ample servings of vegetables and fruit.
• Assess your current fitness level before starting an exercise program. By doing so, you’ll be able to establish goals that meet your specific fitness needs.
• Consider talking with your health care provider before embarking on a fitness program, particularly if you are struggling with a health condition such as diabetes or obesity.
• Choose alternatives to satisfy your cravings when possible. Consider frozen fruit over ice cream or opt for a mini chocolate instead of the whole candy bar.
• Always make time for stretching.
• Don’t overdo it! Try doing too much at once and you’ll burn out swiftly. Slowly increase the intensity of your workouts.
• Diversify your workout routine. If you do the same exercises day after day, you’ll quickly tire and are more likely to skip workouts.
• Work out with a friend. You’ll help motivate each other.
• Keep healthy snacks available at all times. You’re less likely to grab junk food if something good for you is readily available.

DON’TS!!!____________________________________________________________________

• Over-train. Your body needs time to recover in between workouts.
• Skip breakfast. Eating breakfast will jump start your metabolism and provide you with the energy you need to get through the day.
• Skip stretching.
• Skimp on sleep.
• Set unrealistic goals. A healthy rate of weight loss is 1-2 pounds per week. If you have 50 pounds to lose, don’t expect it to come off overnight, you’ll set yourself up for disappointment.
• Work out randomly. Work out regularly to maximize the benefits you’ll reap from a consistent finess routine.
• Give up. Consider talking with a friend in times of discouragement.
• Forget to reward yourself on occasion.