The Health Show #008 - Getting into Group Fitness / Aerobics
The Health Show #008 (MP3 – 6.5MB – 19.38min)
LISTEN HERE
In this podcast Vienna and beti talk about Getting into Group Fitness / Aerobics.
Topics:
1. Medical Clearance
If you are enthusiastic about getting into Aerobics, ask yourself a couple of questions first:
1. Are you over 35?
2. Do you not exercise regularly?
If you have answered yes to both of the questions above or you have a health issue, it is a good idea to see your family doctor before commencing an exercise program. Let your doctor know that you are planning to exercise and also ask for some guidance. Most gyms do make their new members complete a form (PAQ – Pre Activity Questionnaire) to assess whether a medical certificate is required before commencing.
2. Gym (& Friend)
Most aerobics classes are held at gyms.
Before committing to a gym for a designated period (such as a year), ask to participate in an aerobics class or two. Most gyms allow you to participate for free; other gyms may charge you a small fee. This is a very important step.
Some gyms make you sign contracts which tie you in for a certain period and direct debit from your account. If you cancel such a contract they can then charge you a ridiculous amount, just for canceling! Look at the timetable – some gyms have great timetables other gyms don’t – but timetables are ever-changing.
Make sure you do a beginners’ aerobics class and not a super advanced aerobics class.
3. Good Aerobics Shoes
Good aerobics shoes are the key to an enjoyable exercise experience. The recommended aerobics shoe is also known as a Cross Trainer. Cross Trainers give you added support for the various movements done in an aerobics class.
4. Layered Clothing
Get into layered clothing. Wear a few layers so you can strip off as you warm up and dress up as you cool down. Avoid wearing heavy clothing.
5. Water
Water is very important. Keep well hydrated but don’t drink too much. Small sips several times.
6. Sustenance
Eat about two hours before the aerobics class, but if you can’t, have a light snack before (e.g. banana) and have your meal after the aerobics class. A High Carbohydrate, Moderate Protein and Low Fat meal is best suited to this type of activity.
7. Injuries
If you have injuries tend to them accordingly. Avoid aerobicising on recent injuries. If you have injuries that have been there for years, see your doctor or physiotherapist to advise you on exercising without aggravating the injury. Speak to your aerobics instructor before the class and let them know that you have injuries, they will look out for you.
8. Enjoy :)
The benefits of group exercise are that you do a designated time of exercise and it doesn’t get boring.
Goodbye and remember…
Be fit and stay healthy
beti & Vienna