 But I hate to Exercise!
Not everyone is a natural athlete. Maybe you feel clumsy or uncoordinated. Maybe playing sports is not your style. Or maybe you'd just rather read, watch TV, or play a video game.
There is good news. You don't have to be an athlete to get the benefits of exercise. Just 20 minutes of exercise a day can improve your health, lower your blood glucose levels, and give you more energy. Yes, even 20 minutes a day sounds like a lot if you don't exercise much. But it's OK to start with only 5 minutes a day and build up from there. In fact, it's healthier to start slow and increase exercise gradually. Jumping in with both feet can leave you with sore muscles and even less reason to try it again.
Try these strategies for adding more exercise to your life.
- Take a stroll around the block before or after school.
- Take the stairs instead of the escalator or elevator whenever you can.
- Dance around your room to your favorite music (singing along is optional!).
- Use your parents' stationary bike or other exercise machine while you watch your favorite show.
- Try walking around a museum or taking a bike ride with some friends
- Walk your family dog, or borrow a friend's!
- Exercise with a friend. You can encourage each other!
- Listen to your favorite book on tape as you walk around the neighborhood. Or stride to your favorite tunes on a portable tape or CD player. (Don't do this if you walk along busy roads where you need to listen for cars.)
It takes commitment to change your habits to include exercise. The key is to add activity slowly. Don't get down on yourself if you get out of breath or you give up for a few days. Just begin again when you're ready.
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