Getting Started With Activity
Being physically active is a proven way to have more energy, sleep better, and feel fit. And of course, it burns extra calories: a key part of weight loss!
Getting more active doesn't mean you have to join a gym. Choose anything that gets your body moving.
Ease into it
Add 10-minute sessions into your day. You don't have to do it all at one time. Just add more steps to your day:
Take the stairs.
Park farther away and walk.
Clean your house.
Get up to change the TV channel.
Walk longer when you get the mail.
Use a pedometer to count your daily steps. You could also set up the step tracker in this app.
Send your care manager a message if you'd like to change your daily step goal. They can suggest one that's right for you.
Record your total steps each day. Soon, you'll see progress right in front of you!
Be good to your body
Drink plenty of water before, during, and after activity.
Listen to your body. You're the best judge of how hard and how long you should go.
Prevent injury and muscle soreness. Warm up before you're active. Cool down and stretch when you're done.
For when you need that extra push to get moving, get a buddy! Active time can be more fun when it's also social time. And it's harder to bail on that daily walk or workout when someone else is counting on you.
How much?
For good health, try to be active for a total of at least 2 hours and 30 minutes each week.
Try to not overdo it at first. Work up to it. In time, you may want more!
Be safe!
If you haven't been active lately, see your provider before you start. Or, if you're already active but plan to take it up a notch, send your care manager a message. Ask if you should check in with your provider.