EXERCISE FACTS,
Some general information.

Exercise facts.
There are two types of physical activity and they produce different effects for our bodies, namely; Aerobic and Anaerobic activities.

Aerobic exercise involves large muscle movements for a sustained period of time and includes running, fast walking and Aerobic exercise classes among other activities.

Anaerobic exercise builds new muscle and includes activities such as lifting weights and resistance training. 20 minutes of Anaerobic exercise each day can have a dramatic effect on our body's shape and condition. Muscle mass also protects bone mass which is especially important for women.

The following examples are common chores which can be used to include moderate ammounts of physical activity into our daily lives:-

Washing and waxing your car for up to 1 hour.

Cleaning windows or floors for up to 1 hour.

Raking the lawn for 30 minutes.

Walking 2 miles in 30 minutes.

Stair walking for 15 minutes.

The following examples are the more sporty equivalents.

Playing football for 45 minutes.

Cycling 5 miles in 30 minutes.

Fast dancing for 30 minutes.

Running one and a half miles in 15 minutes.

These examples are general recommendations for individuals of all ages who feel and are up to it. The webpages on specific exercises and activities give information relevant to the more senior among us. (we include ourselves in this group)

It's also important to stress, you're not in a race so start gently and build up to levels that suit you. If you have a health complication such as; heart disease, high blood pressure, back problems, arthritis, osteoporosis, joint pain or diabetes, or if you are recovering from an illness, you should talk to your doctor before you start to exercise. However, don't assume your illness will stop you being active, it may be more important than ever that you are.