Exercise is critical to good health, at any age. The key to establishing a sustainable exercise program is to do something you like. It does not have to be at the gym: brisk walking, biking or swimming are excellent outdoor activities, and some hand weights and an exercise ball work well at home. The second edition of Eating for Pregnancy has an excellent Exercise Menu to fit your needs and schedule. Ideally, cardiovascular workouts, lasting 20 to 30 minutes, should be done three to five times a week, and muscle-toning exercises at least twice. Mark your calendar if you need to. Recruit a friend or family members to work out with. Start today…it’s never too late!

Three Important Tips

1. Get well hydrated before exercising. Sip water as needed during your workout.
2. To begin, warm-up for about 10 minutes to protect your muscles and increase your blood flow. You can jog or walk briskly, use a stationery bike or cardio-machine, jump rope, or do a series of lunges, squats and jumping jacks.
3. Stretch after exercising. Be sure to work all of your muscle groups from your head to your toes.

Exercise Mantras

1. I will do what I can, when I can without feeling guilty.
2. I won’t compare myself to others.
3. I won’t give up.