• How Much Exercise is Too Much?

In addition to regularity and intensity, the duration of your exercise is important. How long is long enough? Your physician will probably suggest that you do at least a half hour of continuous activity. During this time your pulse should be held to within 70-85 percent of maximum. You will be advised not to expect to be able to go out and reach this level of aerobic exercise immediately after you begin your exercise program. This is something that you will build up to gradually. Most people take from several weeks to several months to reach this level.
All exercise plans should include warm-up and cool-down periods. The entire exercise session should last about one hour. Plan to begin with 10-15 minutes of stretching, bending, and warming up. This will loosen up your muscles so they are not suddently jolted when you begin your exercise. After exercising for about 30 minutes, cool down by gradually coming to rest or perhaps doing more stretching and bending.
If you have not exercised much in the past, you should begin your exercise program slowly. Walking is an excellent way to begin. It is easy and economical and economical and can be done anytime, anywhere. Both walking and jogging have become popular forms of exercise because they can be done consistently and they easily fit into most people's schedules. If you are beginning an exercise program, exercises such as dancing, hiking, and team sports may not be the best way to begin. These activities may take more effort than you expect, and the efforts you expend are not as easily controlled as in walking or jogging.