The stresses placed on women to "do it all" can become overwhelming, leading them to neglect their personal health as they attempt to care for everyone and every responsibility. Women must commit to making time for themselves. One of the best ways you can attend to yourself is by working out. Begin exercising to improve your life as you strengthen your body and mind.
Walking
Women just beginning to work out should start out with walking. This basic movement can be performed by most without difficulty. Start slow by walking for 10 to 20 minutes every day. Gradually build up to an hour over time. Take most of your walks outdoors if possible to get the added benefit of sunlight, which improves your mood and provides you with essential vitamin D. Invest in a pedometer, which gauges how many steps and how far you have gone as a motivational and information tool. Vary your walking routines by pace, distance and location to keep interested.
Water Exercise
Water exercise is an effective way for women who have long been inactive to get needed exercise. Water is a forgiving medium; you can exercise in it no matter how out of shape you are. Take a friend with you to the local YMCA or community pool and immerse yourself in refreshing and revitalizing activity. Create your own water routines or enroll in a low-impact water aerobics class.
Aerobics
Aerobics are exercises in which you raise your heart rate for a specific period of time. Many aerobic routines resemble dances with repetitions of certain movements. Aerobic classes are offered at many places, including community centers, health spas and churches. Or rent or purchase aerobic workout tapes if you prefer to work out at home.
As a beginner, you can modify any moves that are too vigorous. Substitute walking or jogging in place when you need to recover during intense portions of the workout. There are also aerobics routines for those who must sit while exercising.
Strength Training
Building muscle mass is a good way to work yourself in shape. As a beginner, build your upper-body strength with small weights or resistance bands. Work on your lower body and core by doing push-ups and crunches. Start slowly with only a few repetitions of movements to avoid injury or extreme soreness. Alternate days in which you work your upper and lower body so specific muscle groups have time to heal. Attend strength-training classes to learn how to use specific equipment. Hire a personal trainer to create a workout plan especially for your needs.
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