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I began a new exercise regime about three weeks ago, which includes swimming, power walking, stretching and t’ai chi. Is this a good combination or am I overdoing it?
It's very important to consider your objectives when developing an exercise programme. Do you want to slim down your waistline or strengthen your back? Are you aiming to run a Marathon or do you just want to have more energy? Asking yourself these kinds of questions will help you decide what types of activities you should be doing, as well as how hard, how long and how often you should be doing them. Designing a programme based on your answers may also mean the difference between success and failure. After all, if you don't know where you're going, it's hard to tell when you've arrived.
Setting your goalsWhen establishing goals, think both long-term and short-term. For instance, your long-term goal might be to lose three stone. It could take you weeks, months or even years to reach that point. Taking on a task this monumental might make you feel discouraged. For this reason, it's wise to set smaller, short-term goals that are more like ‘stepping stones’ in your overall fitness plan. If we use the same example above, your stepping stone goals might be to lose two pounds a week. That way, you have the chance of celebrating the victory of accomplishment weekly. Because you're having week after week of success, you've got a better chance of staying motivated for the long haul. We also recommend evaluating your current fitness status to help set goals. Your doctor or trainer can help you determine your baseline starting point.
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