Move Your Way® Through Spring & Summer
Author: be well™ with Big Y® Registered Dietitian Team
Warmer weather is perfect for shaking off cabin fever. What better way to get going than to Move Your Way® with activities you enjoy or always wanted to try?
This season, as you begin to head outside, keep these tips in mind:
The Basics: What You Need¹
#1 - Be sure to get the okay from your healthcare provider to begin a new exercise regimen, especially if you have a chronic medical condition.
#2 - Start slow and steady and choose activities that meet your current level of physical fitness.
#3 - Adults should be active most days of the week, while aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity (e.g.: cardio) that increases your heart rate each week, plus muscle-strengthening activities that make your muscles work harder than usual at least two days a week.
#4 - Children and teens should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate͏-͏intensity aerobic activity each day, with three days each week allotted to increasing the intensity of their aerobic activity to vigorous-intensity while adding in muscle-strengthening activities as well as bone-strengthening activities.
The Story: What You Want
The best and most fun part about becoming more active is that you get to do whatever you enjoy. There is no wrong or right activity when done safely— what moves you, moves you. It's that simple.
Hiking - There are amazing trails with spectacular views all over New England. Take advantage of these free, nearby adventures.
Biking - On the road, on a paved trail or in the woods, biking is a great way to see more than you would on foot.
Kayaking - Taking your fun to the water gives you an entirely different point of view.
Dancing - Alone or with a partner, dancing is a great way to move your body and use your energy.
Walking and Running - Being surrounded by reservoirs and rail trails in our region has its benefits. Strap on a pair of comfortable sneakers and you're ready to go.
Yoga - Outside on your deck or immersed in the forest, yoga is an excellent way to build strength and stamina while bringing your mind back to the present moment.
¹U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 2018. https://health.gov/our-work/nutrition-physical-activity/dietary-guidelines/previous-dietary-guidelines/2015. Accessed 5/26/2023.
Reviewed 5/26/2023