Maintaining the right body weight reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases as well as other forms of cancer and type two diabetes. These diseases do not progress in a short period of time, they develop through the years, and that is the reason why keeping your body healthy and fit is your best shot at preventing these types of diseases.

A healthy body maintained by exercise is your passport to a more meaningful and longer life.

Make Sure You Know Your Limitations prior to Taking on an Exercise Regimen.

Exercise can be precarious especially for people who have specific health issues and those who have not done any strenuous physical activity for a long time. Obese people are also advised to consult health specialists before embarking on an exercise regimen. Immediately beginning a demanding type of workout can lead to serious body injury. It is important to be familiar with the steps.

Know Your Limitations

PAR-Q is the standard used to gauge fitness safety. This tool is used by health clubs, physical trainers and even doctors all over the world. The name is short for Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire and it is usually composed of 5 to 7 questions that can help a person determine if there are any health concerns that need to be addressed before undergoing an exercise program. These questions are answerable by yes or no. Here are some of the questions:

 Has your doctor prescribed drugs for you for blood pressure control or any heart condition?

 Are you suffering from any joint or bone problem which could be made worse if you undergo any strenuous physical activity?

 Have you ever lost balance because you felt dizzy? Do you occasionally lose consciousness?

 Have you experienced chest pains in the past, even if you are not performing any physical activity? Do you feel pain in your chest when you perform physical activity?

 Has your doctor diagnosed you as having a heart condition? Has your doctor ordered you to refrain from doing any physical activity that he did not recommend?

If your answer is yes to any of these questions, it is best to consult your doctor and get cleared before you start with any type of workout.

Aside from this, here are other high risk conditions that require sanction from the doctor before you begin exercising:

 Being 20 pounds overweight

 Chain smoker

 Suffering from arthritis

 Having high blood pressure

 Diabetes

 Other chronic medical conditions

 This does not mean that you cannot do exercise if you are hypertensive or diabetic. In fact, exercising is more often than not an essential part of treatment for these types of conditions. However, you may have limitations and your doctor is the best person to help you with these special concerns.

You need to warm up before exercise and cool down afterwards. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity. E.g. do not perform excessive sit ups on your first day of exercise. Do things gradually.

Cardio Training for a Healthy Body

Cardio training is any form of training that amplifies the work of the lungs and the heart. Some of the most common forms of cardio training include walking, jogging, running, and biking. Other forms of cardio training include swimming, cross training, and rowing.

The benefits of cardio training are limitless and they include:

 Improved muscle mass

 Less risk of osteoporosis

 Enhanced heart function

 Enhanced blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels

 Reduced heart disease risks

 Weight loss

 Increased density of bones

 Stronger heart and lungs

 Reduced stress

 Reduced heart disease risks

 Reduced risks of acquiring some types of cancer

 Confidence in how you look and feel

 Better sleep

Relief from anxiety and depression is an added benefit.

An average adult should spend at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least 4 days a week.