A comprehensive approach to exercise

Not only does exercise help to tone and shape the body, but it is also an excellent way for the body to release tension and alleviate stress. For the exercise novice, it can be difficult to determine which exercises are best or how to vary their routine. In this article, a more detailed description of three major types of exercises will be offered to help the fitness beginner understand exactly what they are doing when they exercise. This will definitively help to design a program that meets your wants and needs.

Aerobic exercise is a superb choice for the individual seeking increased stamina and improved cardiovascular health. Aerobic exercise generally incorporates larger muscles in the body and is repetitive. For example, swimming, dancing, power walking and running all fall under the category of aerobic exercise. 

Toning exercises focus on specific areas of the body that need tightened. Some general toning exercises that many people do would include squats, lunges, crunches or push-ups. More specifically, isotonic exercises shorten muscles against resistance through ranges of motion. An example of an isotonic toning exercise would be weight lifting. Weights provide the resistance required to shorten the muscle. Isotonic toning exercises can be utilized to create a lean or powerful look depending on the activity. Fewer repetitions at a higher weight will yield a more powerful, sculpted look whereas more repetitions at a decreased weight will supply a long and lean appearance.

Another type of toning exercise would be isometric exercises. In isometric exercise, the muscles contract against resistance, but there is no change in the length of the muscle. Certain Pilates’ exercises will offer isometric resistance. Despite the lack of change in muscle length, isometric exercise is important to increasing muscle strength.

Stretching exercises are also vital to a balanced exercise program. They offer a slower, more relaxing workout that aims to improve muscular flexibility while easing tension. One additional benefit of this form of exercise is the improved joint mobility that results from stretching. A great time to implement stretching exercises would be during your workout warm-up or cool down. No matter how tempting it may be to avoid these essential steps in your workout, never skip the warm-up or cool down. Both supply increased circulation to the muscles and assist in injury prevention. If you are looking for more stretching in your workout, in addition to the standard warm-up and cool down, consider yoga. Tai chi is an alternative to yoga, but also an excellent stretching program.

One of the most important things to remember when beginning an exercise program is to facilitate a regimen that is varied. Having variety not only works a diverse group of muscles and builds endurance, but also helps prevent boredom. Each of the types of exercises mentioned above offer a different means to providing fitness, but together these exercises are a complete package.