Healthy Living : Know Your Limitations

 Take a break when you have to. Overdoing isn't going to help

If you're actively involved in a workout program but you are going on a vacation for a week or more or have an extra heavy workload for your job over the next couple of weeks, instead of just stopping your routine entirely during that time, just cut down on it.  Even decreasing your workout by 50 percent will give you the break you need but also make it less difficult to get back to full swing than if you just stopped altogether.

Exercise and Summer. Get enough water. Keep out of the sun.

Doing workouts outside can be renewing and fun but it can also create problems if you do not follow some easy rules.  Make certain you're drinking enough water, about 16 ounces every 30 minutes, before, during, and after exercise.  Sports drinks such as PowerAid and GatorAid have specialized ingredients that help restore fluids to prevent dehydration.

Be Realistic. Overdoing when your body is exhausted can cause serious damage to your body.

It would be fantastic to be able to jump right into a arduous exercise, feel great, and see quick results.  Nevertheless, it is important to be realistic about several things.  First, you need to be aware that you more than likely won't (or shouldn't) start out with a difficult workout if you haven't been in a regular exercise program.  Start out slow and don't set yourself up for failure by expecting miracles quickly.  Being fit takes time and with commitment, you'll reach your goals.

Anticipate Success.

Attempt to anticipate how great you'll look and feel once you get in shape.  Find a picture of someone that has the same body type and put it up where you can look at it everyday to encourage you that you can get the same results with hard work and time.

Know your Age. Overdoing at an older age can set you for serious health problems.

While you're only as old as you feel, keep in mind that young people can with ease jump over an obstacle in the garage or take a jog through the neighborhood with no problem.  But this is not necessarily true for those who are getting older.  While it is crucial to stay fit and healthy as people age, something that might have been easy for you when you're young may now cause injury or illness.  If you find you can no longer do one activity, do not be discouraged; just substitute one activity for another.