| t has been released by the Mayo Clinic that | | | | ups and squats along with others. |
| identifies five (5) areas that need to be targeted | | | | 3. Stretching: |
| for a balanced fitness program. The areas | | | | Stretching is sometimes forgotten but it is critical |
| identified in the report include 1) aerobic fitness, 2) | | | | for a well rounded program. All fitness coaches |
| muscular fitness, 3) stretching, 4) core stability | | | | recommend that stretching be included in their |
| and 5) balance training. Each item will be discussed | | | | fitness programs. All exercises make the muscles |
| below. | | | | contract and flex so stretching of the muscles |
| 1. Aerobic Fitness: | | | | also needs to be included for a well rounded |
| Aerobic fitness is often called cardiovascular | | | | workout. |
| fitness. Aerobic fitness is essential to weight loss | | | | Stretching is especially important for the later |
| and total fitness because it helps the lungs, heart | | | | years to keep the body flexible to avoid a lot of |
| and blood vessels move oxygen through the | | | | the injuries that accompany old age. |
| system more efficiently. | | | | 4. Core Stability: |
| Aerobic or cardiovasculr exercise should be done | | | | Core muscles are those in the body and include |
| at least two and one half (2-1/2) hours each | | | | the abdomen muscles, lower back and the pelvis |
| week for a moderate aerobic activity or at least | | | | area. They should be included in fitness programs |
| seventy five (75) minutes for vigorous exercise. | | | | because they are needed for upper and lower |
| Aerobic exercises should be spread throughout | | | | body movements. |
| the week. | | | | 5. Balance Training: |
| 2. Muscular Fitness: | | | | Balance is often forgotten in physical fitness |
| Muscular fitness exercise should be done at least | | | | programs but it needs to be included in a well |
| two to three times during the week. Muscular | | | | rounded program. Balance is essential to everyday |
| exercises help with muscular fitness along with | | | | life functions and it tends to deteriorate with age |
| increasing bone strength. Muscular strength is | | | | so it imperative that a good program be |
| necessary as we grow older. | | | | maintained. |
| Equipment is not necessary to maintain muscular | | | | Developing a good balance training regimen will add |
| fitness if you have a fitness program that includes | | | | quality to life. |
| body strengthening exercises like push-ups, chin | | | | |