Wednesday, September 24, 2008

From SB Today

Daily Dish
Get Moving!
Tomorrow is National Women's Health & Fitness Day, the nation's largest annual health promotion event for women of all ages. This health observance is a great reminder for people following the South Beach Diet to complement their healthy eating with some healthy activity.

Exercise is a fundamental part of the South Beach Diet lifestyle, so why not take this opportunity to participate in one of the hundreds of women's health and fitness events sponsored by local organizations at hospitals, health clubs, park and recreational districts, and other community locations?

If you can't make it to one of these events, resolve to begin a fitness routine, or try a new form of exercise if you're already active. Remember, Dr. Agatston recommends selecting an activity that you enjoy so you're more likely to continue doing it. He also advises easing into a routine rather than overdoing it and then abandoning the program because it was too hard. Here are a few activities you may want to try:

Take a coworker for a "talk walk." Instead of a coffee break at your desk, grab a coworker and take a walk outside. The conversation will make the time fly by, while the exercise will raise your energy level (so you'll be less likely to get sluggish by midafternoon).

Play tag with your kids. When was the last time you participated in a simple game of tag? Rediscover your inner child while spending quality time with your kids. They'll get a kick out of having you join their game, and it's a great way to reconnect with your little ones while enjoying some exercise.

Take a loved one to a salsa club or social dance. It's always more fun to exercise with a partner than doing it alone. Find a dance club that offers swing, salsa, or line country dancing and you'll learn some new moves with this enjoyable form of exercise. And for those who have two left feet, try a less-crowded, early evening lesson to help get you up to speed.

Consider martial arts. This is another activity that you can participate in with your child. Find a class that offers instruction for both of you, or go to separate classes and practice your moves together at home.

Go for a ride. September's beautiful weather is perfect for an afternoon bike ride. Bring your bike in for a tune-up and then take it for a spin around your neighborhood. Don't have a bike? Try an indoor spinning class instead.

Take a dip in the pool. Many community centers offer great pool-based fitness classes, so check your local listings for a class that suits you.

No comments:

Spreading the Spark!

SparkPeople.com: Get a Free Online Diet