Getting started safely-

Getting active is one of the healthiest decisions you can makeas you age, but it's important to do it safely.

• Get medical clearence- from your doctor before starting an exercise program, especially if you have a preexisting condition. Ask if there are any activities you should avoid.

• Consider health concerns- keep in mind how your ongoing health problems effect your workouts.

For example, diabetics may need to adjust the timing of medication and meal plans when setting an exercise schedule.

• Listen to your body- Exercise should never hurt or make you feel lousy.Stop exercising immediately and call your if you feel dizzy or short of breath, develop chest pain or pressure, break out in a cold sweat or experience pain. And put your routine on hold if a joint is red, swollen, or tender to the touch- the best way to cope with innuries is to aviod them in the first place. If you regularly experience pain or discomfort after exercising, try exercising for less time but more frequently throughout the day.

• Start slow and build up steadily- If you haven't been active in a while, build up your exercise program little by little. Try spacing workouts in ten- minute increments twicea day.Or try just one class each each week.If you're concerned about falling or have an ongoing heart problem, start with easy chair exercises to slowly increase your fitness and confidence.

• Prevent injury and discomfort- by warming up, cooling down and keeping water handy

• Commit to an exercise schedule- for atleast three or four weeks so that it becomes a habit and force yourself to stick with it.This is much easier if you find activities you enjoy.

• Experiment with mindfulness- Instead of zoning out when you exercise, try to focus on how your body feels as you move- the rhythm of your breathing, the way your feet strike the ground or your muscles flexing, for example, Practicing mindfulness will improve your physical condition faster better relieve stress and anxiety and better help to avoid accidents or injuries.