Fit tips
Some handy tips about exercise:
- Try to sneak some exercise into your daily routine. Why not get off the bus a few stops early and walk the rest?
- Use the stairs instead of the lift and for short trips leave the car in the garage and enjoy the stroll.
- Remember to start slowly and build gradually.
- Exercise until pleasantly tired, but don't push to exhaustion. The right level will leave you breathless but not speechless.
- Always warm up to prepare your muscles before exercising and include some gentle stretches.
- "Wind down" your exercise session, don't stop suddenly following vigorous exercise. Slow the pace of your activity to a comfortable level for a few minutes at the end of each session.
- Leave an hour after heavy meals before starting exercise
- Don't ignore pain - it's you body saying "stop"!
- Easy, rhythmic movements are best - cycling, swimming, and walking are the best all round forms of exercise.
Other ways to improve your health and fitness:
- Eat healthily - eat a variety of foods from the 5 basic food groups every day. Cut down on fats cholesterol, sugar and salt. Drink plenty of fluids, for example water.
- Don't smoke and limit alcohol use. If you smoke or have problems with alcohol use, ask your doctor to refer you to sources of help.
- Reduce stress. Take short breaks. Do something relaxing every day.
- Get enough rest.
Contacts
The contacts database contains details of organisations that may be able to offer information or assistance on this issue.
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Reproduced with kind permission of NHS Direct Wales - www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/theroom
