Saturday, April 26, 2014

Session Strategies

Each session we will be walking, walk-runing, or running depending on your goals, here are a few tips to keep you in peak performance:

1.  I strongly recommend that you consult a physician before you begin any new exercise program.

2.  Always bring a bottle of water with you to each session - you'll be surprised at how this helps keep you going at an optimal level.  Dehydration can be a life threatening condition - don't risk it - just sip throughout each training session.  In addition to drinking during your session, you will want to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.  Your daily goal of water, unless otherwise directed by a physician, is 64 ounces of plain water PLUS 8 ounces of water for every 20 minutes of physical activity.

3.  You'll begin and end each training session with a 5-10 minute warm up and cool down which are done at a slower pace that then rest of the workout.  This allows your body temperature to increase and decrease more safely as well as preparing your muscles and joints for the work of each session.

4.  Each session must conclude with a thorough stretch - some suggestions will be offered after our first group walk.  Research is inconclusive about the benefits of stretching before activity - we will not do this as a group, but you are certainly welcome to stretch on your own before beginning.

5.  To build up and/or maintain your fitness, you'll want to engage in at least 150  minutes of moderately intense physical activity each week. Moderate intensity means you can talk but not sing.