Ability Not Age The Most Important Factor for Fitness

There are 4 important factors to be aware of once you have decided to start an exercise program. It is more important than you might think to participate in an exercise program that is safe and "right for you."

Factor #1  Exercise Ability
It is best to have your exercise program match your current conditioning levels. Starting an exercise program that is beyond your current ability dramatically increases the chance of serious injury. Find an exercise program that will increase in intensity as your abilities and conditioning grow.

Factor #2  Exercise Safety
Exercise safety is rarely talked about at your average health club, YMCA or gym and that is why there are so many fitness related injuries. Most people begin with the same basic exercise program regardless of their ability or conditioning level. A diagnosis of back pain, osteoporosis or osteopenia requires a very different approach to exercise; one that eliminates seated exercises and flexion motions.

Factor #3  Exercise Appropriateness
Health-based exercise programs are the most effective programs currently available. Health-based exercises target specific health problems and help reduce pain, improve back and hip strength, posture, flexibility and balance. These exercises better prepare your body for daily activities such as loading groceries, house cleaning, gardening, tennis, golf and travel. Your fitness program should include health-based exercises.

Factor #4  Exercise Convenience
It is not always convenient to go somewhere to exercise. Exercise programs that are simple to learn, require no special tools and can be practiced anywhere are your best bet. As an example, someone practicing good posture throughout the day can benefit from many more hours of back  strengthening than someone who is unaware of their body position.

Our Posture Perfect! classes offer a unique blend of all four factors mentioned above. For a free consultation or to learn more about health-based exercises and the importance of exercise safety please contact Woody McMahon at 703.628.2880 or email to woody@sequoiahealth.com.