Exercise is typically separated into categories that focus on cardiovascular endurance (cardio), strength (resistance), agility and balance and flexibility. A well rounded exercise plan will include all of these categories in equal proportions. Exercise can be done with or without equipment. The best exercise will be a program that is both interesting and doable. For instance, a daily walk on a flat surface can be beneficial for strength and low level cardiovascular endurance. When adding a walk that includes a slight incline or adding more distance, the body will respond accordingly and improvement in your exercise ability will follow.
There is no age limit to gaining benefit from exercise so it is never too late to start. The body can adapt negatively when we are sedentary but more importantly, the body can adapt positively to any form of exercise if done routinely.
Endurance, Flexibility, Agility and balance, Strength
We will review these major categories of exercise in future articles.