Kenneth Gardner

If more of us would exercise in 2007, we would be better gatekeepers of our health and wellness.

We can fit exercise into our busy schedules if we manage our time well. We should preferably exercise at the same time on the days that we choose to exercise. It is not a good idea to tell ourselves that we will exercise at some time during the day, when we have some free time. We should schedule a time to exercise and make it a priority.

We should also include alternative plans in our programmes to account for eventualities or emergencies. We do not have to work on all the fitness components in the same exercise session, but it is important to have a regular schedule.

Running or jogging trail

It is easier for us to exercise if we have access to facilities that are pleasant; these facilities could be a running or jogging trail with a soft surface. A facility where we can swim or do aquatic activities is also a good option. Where cycling is possible, minimal traffic and air pollution are also important for our safety. If we choose to exercise at a club, it is important that we are guided by its convenience, cost, atmosphere and success record. Others of us may be able to play a game or participate in some sport with our neighbours or friends on a regular basis.

An exercise programme works out best when we have a plan which helps us to make gradual, yet steady, progress toward our goal. Planning for physical fitness consists of assessing how fit we are now, determining where we want to be and choosing the ideal activities to help us get there. The core idea in our exercise goal should be because we want to do it for ourselves. This should be our guide for starting an exercise programme or continuing. An ideal fitness programme combines a physically-active lifestyle with a systematic exercise programme.

Exercising at work

For those who have difficulty participating in an exercise routine before or after work, consider exercising at the work site. Work site exercise programmes can facilitate employee involvement because of the convenience. The programme can also be offered at low cost. An improvement in the fitness of the employees can also lead to an improvement in the productivity of the workers. An increasing number of businesses are now accommodating their employees with opportunities to take advantage of wellness facilities. For more of us to benefit from exercise, simple, inexpensive but good quality exercise programmes need to be made available and employers can assist by subsidising their club fees.

Walk or cycle to work

Getting to and from work by walking or cycling can be a good exercise routine where the environment facilitates this option. Others may be able to add jogging home after work. Some workplaces may allow their employees extra time during the lunch break for an exercise session. The purchase of exercise equipment for use at home makes it very convenient to exercise at our leisure.

With the difficulties many of us face with traffic, more of us could avoid the rush hours by participating in an exercise programme at the work site or some nearby facility. Commuting home after an exercise session with less traffic would be less aggravating.

Kenneth Gardner is an exercise physiologist at the G. C. Foster College of Physical Education: email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.