Have a routine
physical.
Visit you doctor before beginning a new exercise program. Any
new activity can stress your body. If you have undiagnosed heart
disease or other conditions, you should modify your exercise
accordingly. Your doctor can let you know what your limits might
be and suggest an appropriate amount of exercise for you. Gradually
increase time and intensity.
When starting an exercise program, many people have lots of
enthusiasm initially, and go too hard, too soon. Begin with
moderate exercise of about 20 minutes, 3 times a week and gradually
build upon this. Warm up slowly.
A proper, gradual warm up goes a long way to prevent injuries.
The warm up can consist of walking, jogging or simply doing
your regular activity at a snail’s pace. 
Don’t
workout on empty.
While you don’t want to exercise immediately
after eating a large meal, eating about 2 hours before
exercise can help fuel your exercise and help you avoid
feeling faint during your workout. Drink before
you exercise.
Dehydration can kill your performance, so stay well
hydrated. Try to drink 16 oz. of water in the two
hours before your workout and then take in water
during your workout to replace any lost fluids. Listen
to your body.
If you experience any sharp pain, weakness or
light-headedness during exercise, pay attention.
This is your body’s signal that something
is wrong and you should stop exercise. Pushing through
acute pain is the fastest way to develop a severe
or chronic injury. If you don’t
feel well, you should take some time off until your
body heals. Rest.
In addition to getting enough sleep, it is important
to take some rest days. Working out too much for
too long can lead to injuries and pain. Cross
train.
In addition to helping reduce workout boredom,
cross-training allows you to get a full body
workout without overstressing certain muscle
groups. Dress properly.
This includes using appropriate safety equipment
for your sports, choosing proper footwear, and
clothing that wicks sweat and helps keep you
cool and dry. Layer clothing for cold weather
exercise. Visit a personal trainer or
physiotherapist.
If you just don’t know what to do or
where to begin, a good trainer will get you
started safely and help you learn enough
to work out on your own if you choose. A
few initial sessions may be all you need.
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