How to Get Physically Fit

Change your lifestyle and your look by pushing yourself with a coordinated, disciplined fitness program.

Instructions

: Always consult a physician before attempting to do any exercise or exercise plan.
Step 1: Join the army Join the military if you're serious about getting physically fit quickly. Time spent in boot camp will transform a sedentary life, and the rest of your service time can instill the self-discipline you need to keep it up for a lifetime.
Step 2: Get checked Get in shape independently, starting with a physical from a doctor. Incorporate their suggested modifications and limitations to your diet and exercise. After few weeks or months on a plan, it will become habit.
Step 3: Start slow Start slowly and up the ante progressively. Set achievable goals and track your progress, including weight loss, energy levels, and blood pressure.
Step 4: Work on machines Join a gym and work out on the machines available. Develop a circuit so you can work one group of muscles one day, another the next.
TIP: Pace yourself -- heavy, intense, and prolonged weight training can thicken the heart muscle and cause problems later.
Step 5: Walk and run Walk or run a few miles a day, but be careful to wear the right shoes to prevent knee or hip damage. Involve the whole family and use the time to catch up with one another.
Step 6: Swim regularly Join a facility and swim regularly. Make sure that the water is kept at a warm temperature for range-of-motion exercises.
TIP: To improve cardiovascular health, walk, run, swim, or exercise for at least 20 minutes a day to get optimum results.
Step 7: Move regularly Stay active. Work around the house or the yard to set a pattern of healthy activity. When you go out, park farther away from your destination. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Step 8: Make it a lifestyle Make exercise and fitness a part of your routine. Eventually it'll become second nature and, before you know it, you'll be looking and feeling better.
FACT: In 2007, 32 percent of Mississippians were obese, the highest obesity rate in the United States.