Exercise and Fitness FAQ
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How do I begin an exercise program?
- This is an excellent question as many people who are beginning may have the same thought. The best answer is to gradually work into a program, not go all out immediately.
- If necessary, contact a physician to inform them of the plan. This is important for individuals who are on certain medication, have health conditions related to heart, blood pressure or diabetes.
- Ask for help from qualified professionals, especially ones who have a thorough understanding of the body in motion in conjunction with any injuries, illness, or limitations.
- Obtain a baseline for tracking purposes to help maintain progress and to help keep goals in place.
- Set short-term and long-term goals to help out.
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Which is more important, cardio or strength?
- Both have importance in a routine and have value. The value of strength training is important and should not be overlooked. All of the benefits include greater calorie expenditure not just during, but in the hours after about is done (yes hours).
- Strength training has been shown to help reduce stress, improve mood, improve focus and attention, improve overall health, and helps to reduce the risk of injury.
- Strength training is beneficial for all athletes of all ages. This includes endurance athletes, high skilled sports, sprinters, swimmers/divers, gymnasts, dancers, and many others.
- A well-designed program holds benefits throughout all sports seasons from off-season, pre-season, in-season and post-season play for all athletes. The goal is not to do as many exercises as possible in a short period of time, but rather to do a few exercises that benefit the sport and the athlete.
- The same thought process holds true for the non-athletes as well and is transferable for many other skills
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What benefits does cardio have and what are the benefits of strength training?
- Strength training has the potential to raise your resting metabolism which last several hours after the bout is finished with
- Cardio may burn more calories initially, but that does not last throughout the day.
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I am not inflexible, should I bother to stretch?
Yes! Keep trying to stretch and help loosen up a little at a time. This will help in reducing the risk of injury during workout sessions.