Exercising Good Sense

Get Set…
If you have been inactive for a long time, start slowly and only gradually increase the length of your workouts. If you choose brisk walking as your exercise, you might begin with 15-minute sessions, then add two or three minutes to those sessions each week.

To avoid injury, always start slowly, or warm up, for five minutes before strenuous exercise, then cool down or move more slowly for five minutes afterward. A 15-minute walking session, for example, should include five minutes at a moderate pace, five minutes at a brisk pace and five more minutes at a moderate pace. A 30-minute session should include the five-minute warm-up and cool-down periods plus 20 minutes at a brisk pace.

If you exercise outside, be smart about weather, light, and traffic conditions:

• In warm weather, it's especially important to drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise.
• When it's cold outside, wear one less layer than you would if you were not exercising. Don't forget your hat.
• In the rain or snow, be aware of reduced visibility and traction.
• Wear light colors or a reflecting vest in the dark.
• Face oncoming traffic when you walk, but bicycle with the traffic.