SOME QUICK TIPS FOR A NEW FITNESS PROGRAM

By: Jon Ham

So you want to begin a fitness regimen but do not know where to start? Here are some helpful tips that will help you be on your way to a healthier, happier you! 

· Begin by doing some sort of cardiovascular training 3-5 days per week for at least 30 minutes/day. It doesn’t have to be running uphill! Simply walking at a brisk pace, swimming, or riding the bike all are excellent forms of cardio. There are numerous benefits of cardiovascular training, two of which are that it burns calories (important for weight loss), and reduces stress levels (good for those of you who are prone to throwing clubs on the golf course).


· Resistance training is essential for an effective fitness program. Resistance training raises your resting metabolic rate. This means you can increase the amount of calories you burn throughout your day without doing a thing! Bone density also increases as a result of the extra load placed on your bones from resistance exercises. Resistance training provides numerous benefits and is an essential component in any fitness program. Program design will vary per the individual. 

· Stick with it!!! 
Consistency is extremely important. Make it your goal to find an active routine that you enjoy doing. If you enjoy it, you will most likely stick with it. Research shows that you are more likely to stick with your exercise routine if you do your exercise in the morning, so it may mean that you need to set the alarm an hour earlier to get it done first thing in the morning. However you decide to do it, make it a part of your lifestyle to be active. This is one sure way to succeed in your health and fitness goals. 

· Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eat plenty of veggies and fruits, lean meats, whole grains, and stay away from foods high in saturated fats (ex: fried foods). Consult with your physician before trying any “diet,” and do your homework to find out what is best for you!