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4. EXERCISE GUIDE
How you begin your exercise program depends on your physical condition. If you have been inactive
for several years or are severely overweight, start slowly and increase your workout time gradually.
Increase your workout intensity gradually by monitoring your heart rate while you exercise.
Remember to follow these essentials:
Have your doctor review your training and diet programs.
Begin your training program slowly with realistic goals that have been set by you and your
physician.
Warm up before you exercise and cool down after you work out.
Take your pulse periodically during your workout and strive to stay within a range of 60% (lower
intensity) to 90% (higher intensity) of your maximum heart rate zone. Start at the lower intensity,
and build up to higher intensity as you become more aerobically fit.
If you feel dizzy or lightheaded you should slow down or stop exercising.
Initially you may only be able to exercise within your target zone for a few minutes; however, your
aerobic capacity will improve over the next six to eight weeks. It is important to pace yourself while you
exercise so you don't tire too quickly.
To determine if you are working out at the correct intensity, use a heart rate monitor or use the table
below. For effective aerobic exercise, your heart rate should be maintained at a level between 60% and
90% of your maximum heart rate. If just starting an exercise program, work out at the low end of your
target heart rate zone. As your aerobic capacity improves, gradually increase the intensity of your
workout by increasing your heart rate.
