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Choosing the Right Exercise Program

posted by TrueNorth Companies on Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Research shows that those who are physically active are likely to live longer, healthier lives. In fact, physical activity can lead to many benefits: 

• Weight maintenance
• Reduced blood pressure
• Improved glucose regulation
• Stronger bone density

Also, a person who has hypertension, diabetes or a history of smoking can greatly benefit from including regular physical activity into his or her daily routine. 

The First Step

If you are over 40 years of age, inactive or have health issues, consult a physician before you begin an exercise program. 

A Complete Program

There are three main components to a well-balanced program of physical activity: aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility training. 

Commitment to a regular physical activity program is more important than the intensity of your workouts. Choose exercises you are likely to pursue and enjoy, such as these activities:

• Walking
• Running
• Stair climbing
• Biking
• Rowing
• Cross-country skiing
• Swimming

Healthy aerobic training should be performed three to five days per week with a minimum of 20 minutes per day. Remember, if your schedule is tight, it is better to exercise for a shorter period of time than not at all. 

Strength training is another option. Strength training should be done two to three times per week, and is performed with free weights or weight machines. 

For the purposes of general training, two to three upper body and lower body exercises should be done. Abdominal exercises are an important part of strength training as well. 

Flexibility training is important too, but is frequently neglected, resulting in increased tightness as you age and become less active. Stretching is most safely done with sustained gradual movements lasting a minimum of 15 seconds per stretch. At a minimum, strive to stretch every day. 

Learn more about TrueNorth's Individual Health & Employee Benefits

TrueNorth offers businesses of every size comprehensive solutions to meet their business needs and those of their employees.  If you are in need of business solutions or are looking to start a business of your own, please call TrueNorth.  Our Employee Benefits division would be happy to assist you in providing for the well-being of both you and your staff.  Call us today at 1-800-798-4080.