Saturday, September 1, 2012

10 Tips to get more active


In honor of PCOS awareness month I'll be getting this blog up and running again!


1.  Plan ahead - Schedule physical activity into your daily routine and do your best to stick to it. A 
commitment to being active needs to be long-term, and should become a normal part of your 
everyday lifestyle. If time is limited, try getting up earlier or walking during your lunch break. 

2.  Equipment - You do not need expensive equipment to begin exercising. Start with a good pair of training shoes and comfortable clothes. Take a water bottle and don’t forget to wear sunscreen and a hat when exercising outside in summer. 

3.  Get support - You are more likely to succeed if you have the support and encouragement of 
family or friends. Surveys show that women prefer walking over all other activities and when they 
walk with friends they walk longer and report walking is more enjoyable.  Group activities are more social and you can encourage each other to keep going.

4.  Choose an activity that is right for you - When choosing a new activity, take time to consider what would best suit you. Think about convenience, budget, pre-existing medical conditions and whether or not you will enjoy the activity. You shouldn’t take up water-skiing if you can’t afford it, have to travel for hours and don’t like getting wet!

5.  Be creative - Try something different – let your imagination run wild. Vary the places you go 
walking or try line dancing or water aerobics - there’s bound to be something out there that’s perfect for you.

6.  Keep at it - Occasionally there may be periods of time where you lose focus and go off track. Do your best to get back to doing some physical activity when you can – try to think positive, plan ahead and always keep the benefits in mind.  

7.  Set goals - Set both short and long-term goals so you have something to work towards. Be 
realistic – you won’t be able to run a marathon in two weeks time; but you might be able to walk every day for a week. Keep track of your achievements.

8.  Reward yourself - It’s important to reward yourself when you achieve your goals. Having an 
added incentive can also help you to get going when you don’t feel motivated. A reward could be 
anything from buying your favourite magazine, getting a manicure or going away for the weekend.

9.  Listen to your body - Exercising is not about ‘no pain, no gain’. If an activity causes you pain 
either slow down or stop altogether. Pain is a sign that something might be wrong. If you are worried, see your health practitioner before continuing.

10. Have fun - Enjoyment is essential for maintaining a long-term commitment to being more 
physically active. Be selective in the activities that you choose, get in involved in group activities and stay positive – you’re worth the effort. 

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