Karen Gutherless is director of
Health Seekers Technology of North Platte, 402 E. Francis.
Reshape your body
by Karen Gutherless
The future shape of your body is within your control. Start by planning
an exercise routine that stresses low-impact resistance weight training
with air-pressurized equipment, using positive and negative resistance.
Pneumatic systems are hard on the muscle and easy on the joints.
A busy schedule demands a fitness program that can maximize results in a
minimum of time. Keep in mind there are three essential components of physical
fitness – cardio-vascular,
strength training and stretching.
Cardio-vascular conditioning reduces excess body fat, increases oxygen-carrying
capacities of blood and helps the heart pump more efficiently.
Strength training increases resting metabolism, causing the body to burn
more calories while at rest. Increasing the amount of muscle and decreasing
the amount of fat helps performance of recreational activities and reduces
risk of injury.
Stretching reduces the risk of injury by loosening tight muscles and improves
range of motion and mobility.
Additional benefits from regular exercise include increased flexibility
and range of motion, improved postural stability, effective weight control
and psychological benefits related to reduced symptoms of depression,
and improved concept of personal control and self-efficacy.
Recent studies show that the most beneficial part of a workout is in the
negative resistance. The philosophy of "push and pull" as fast
as you can is NOT the correct way to exercise. Your muscles will not receive
the necessary oxygen with the correct breathing technique needed for toning
and strengthening your body. Your body could "max out" within
two months.
Design an exercise routine you can live with. Exercise and healthy eating
habits are a life-long commitment. Looking good and feeling good affect
more than your appearance; they affect your quality of life.