McDaniel College 

Health and Fitness Tips
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) provides some tips from the experts related to muscle strength training, weight loss, nutrition, and other health topics.  To see the list of topics go to http://www.acefitness.org/fitfacts/fitbits_list.aspx 

General Fitness Tips:

1. See your doctor before you start an exercise program.
2. Choose an activity, exercise equipment and a fitness center that fits your needs and interests.
3. Set daily and weekly fitness goals that are realistic.
4. Schedule your workouts each week just like you would do for a doctor’s appointment.
5. Get a friend to workout with you.
6. Start slow and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workout.
7. Eat small meals or healthy snacks throughout the day to provide your body with the necessary fuel for physical activity.  Also, drink 8 cups of water per day and make sure that you get frequent drinks of water before, during and after your workout.
8. Do a minimum of 3 strength training workouts per week and allow 1 day of rest in between for muscles to recuperate.  Cardiovascular training and recreational activities may be done as often as you wish.
9. Try to complete a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes of sustained physical activity every day.
10. Depending on your level of fitness choose a resistance or workload that is approximately 50% to 80% of your maximum capacity.
11. Warm-up prior to your workout.  Stretch and cool down after completing your workout.
12. Keep a record of your workouts and periodically review to track your progress and make adjustments to your routine.
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