Active mind/body, healthy mind/body

We describe a concrete regimen of exercise rather than simply saying, “exercise” and leaving it at that. Many patients don’t know how to get started, and specific details about using machines, weights, running, and other techniques prove valuable. Practical details are important, and we take time to answer any and all questions a patient might have. The physician-patient partnership around overall health goals is crucial. As partners, they can work together to include exercise as one tool among many to help achieve good health. Follow-up is also key to encourage continued elaboration of goals, to educate about the interventions, and to support motivation. An exercise regimen is not static, and for best effect changes organically over time. We have also found it is important to describe our own exercise experience, as a way of modeling what is possible. Here’s how we make room for exercise We have discovered many techniques that help us maintain our exercise routines in the face of the daily demands of busy lives. Here is a partial list. On Sunday night, when you think about your week, schedule your exercise just as you plan for work, errands, and other commitments. It’s easier to stick with it when you have concretely planned time. Mix it up. Plan different types of exercise to challenge different muscle groups, as research shows us this is the best way to stay in shape and develop endurance and muscle mass. Don’t get bogged down if you don’t have a lot of time...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Exercise and Fitness Health Source Type: blogs