$Unique_ID{BRK01640}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Comments on a Good Exercise Program}
$Subject{exercise types benefits}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Comments on a Good Exercise Program


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  My wife keeps pestering me to get more exercise, as the
prescription to cure all ills.  I do walk when I can and get my heart to race
a bit faster, and I suspect that is what all exercise is for anyway.  Can you
comment on this for me please?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  There is more to it, indeed, much more!  Perhaps some explanations of
the types of exercise will help.
     There are several types of exercise and a good exercise program should
give you some of each kind each week.  The goals of exercise are to strengthen
muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and increase joint flexibility, and in
some cases, to burn calories and help in a weight reduction program.
     Aerobic exercise is any continuous vigorous exercise.  As you exercise
aerobically, your lungs do more work with less effort, your heart becomes
stronger, and your endurance improves.  Running, cycling, swimming, and brisk
walking are all aerobic exercises.  To get the most from an aerobic exercise,
exercise continuously without rest periods for 20 to 30 minutes at least 3
times a week.
     Anaerobic exercises; tennis, handball, and running sprints, involve a
short burst of activity followed by a recovery period.  They put a sudden high
demand on the heart and lungs.
     Strength-building exercises can be isometric or isotonic.  Isometric
exercises build strength by pitting one group of muscles against another or
against something unyielding.  Isometrics are no longer recommended because
the lack of movement can result in joint stiffening.  This type of exercise
also increases pressure in the chest and may cause dizziness or fainting.
Isotonic exercises build strength by having muscles move weight through a full
range of motion.  These exercises help maintain muscle mass, body proportions,
and good posture.  Weight-lifting is isotonic exercise, as are push-ups,
pull-ups, and sit-ups, where the weight of the body is being lifted or moved.

ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
