CHNOLA | Exercise: Adding Intensity

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Exercise: Adding Intensity

You have been exercising for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Now you can move on to the next stage: increasing the intensity. This means doing your activity in one or more of these ways:

Longer. Exercise for 30 minutes or more without a break.

Faster. Hike, run, or skate fast enough to raise your heart rate moderately—as if you had walked fast to catch a bus.

More often. Do your activity more times a week.

Not just gym class

Be creative. You can reach your health and fitness goals in many ways. Try some of these activities:

Team sports, like basketball or soccer
Social or recreational activities, like hiking or dancing
Individual exercise, like cycling, swimming, or skating
Group fitness classes, like aerobic classes or weight training

Safety first

Whatever activity you choose, think about safety:

Wear the right safety gear and shoes for your activity.
Drink plenty of water during and after workouts.
Wear light-colored, reflective clothing if you’re out when it’s dark.
Make time to warm up before you exercise and cool down after.
Carry ID (identification) with you if you’re out alone. And be sure someone knows where you’re going.
If you’re on foot, travel against traffic (except on blind corners). If you’re on a bike, go with traffic. Obey the rules of the road.

Tips for sticking with it

Find a workout partner or sports club. If you know someone is expecting you, you’ll be less likely to skip your workout.
Pack a workout bag with everything you need. Then it’s ready when you are.
Choose a few different activities so you’ll stay interested. Make it fun!