Workout V

I would like to offer a few precautions for your exercise routine (some I’ve suggested already and some I haven’t).  It's good to warm-up before you stretch.  You can do this by moving side to side as your arms move side to side as well or by doing a march while swinging your arms back and forth.  Even if you choose to skip the warm up, be sure to stretch, for this will decrease your chances of injury.  During your 20 seconds of rest after your 20 second activity, do not sit or stand in one place.  If you do, you may get very dizzy or even faint.  You should keep moving; walk around the room or march for the whole 20 seconds in between activities.  One thing to be meticulous about is your form.  This is why it is good to work with a personal trainer, they will be sure to check your form.  If you have poor form, you may not get the most out of your workout or you may even increase your risk of injury.  So watch your back by keeping it straight except when you are stretching it or when you are doing certain exercises.  Watch your knees and elbows by never ever locking them; always keep them bent even if it is just slightly.  When you do squats be sure that your knees are over your ankles or at least make sure that they do not extend beyond your toes.

I hope this advice was helpful.  If you have started an exercise program under my advice, I hope you’ve shared with your doctor.  If you have a personal trainer, great!  If you don't, hopefully you are being careful to mind the advice that I've offered throughout the "workout" series.

Keep movin' and keep havin' fun!  As always your questions, reactions and commentary are always welcome.