Being creative can help you enjoy fitness routine

Washington, Jan 16 (ANI): Exercise has a myriad of benefits to the heart. However, people often give up regular work out once they get bored.

Incorporating certain creative strategies is likely to make exercising fun and maintain healthy cardiovascular system, says Judy Hinderliter and husband Alan from University of North Carolina.

Exercise can help people lose weight and significantly improves mood.

"That in turn can affect how we feel about ourselves and affect a lot of our lifestyle choices," Alan added.

Hinderliters advise people starting a new exercise program to consult a physician and to start slowly.

"A lot of people try to do too much at once and fail or become injured," said Judy.

"I really encourage people to start out gradually with any changes in eating and exercise, so it becomes part of their lifestyle," she added.

Hinderliters have given some tips that would help maintain regular exercise regime without getting bored.

Turn social occasions into fitness time. For instance the Hinderliters went on a run for their first date, redefining the meaning of "heart-pounding."

Schedule exercise into your day, just as you do with other appointments.

Vary the type and intensity of exercise to avoid boredom.

Play games, such as tennis, racquetball or squash. Such games are "a way to keep it fun and interesting, but also a great workout," Alan Hinderliter said.

If you can afford a personal trainer, get one. A professional can help you design an effective exercise program and show you how to avoid injuries.

If you can, try walking to work. "Instead of a 15-minute commute, make it a half-hour walk," Alan Hinderliter said.

Don't forget to eat a heart-healthy diet: whole grains, lean meat and low-fat dairy products, plenty of fruits and veggies, and few saturated fats. For an average person, the caloric content of a tablespoon of butter requires a mile of walking to burn off, Judy Hinderliter said.

Get a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, at least five times a week, or 30 minutes three times each week of vigorous exercise such as running, swimming, bicycling or playing basketball. (ANI)