Fitness basics
Learning Center
Need motivation to exercise? Try a diary
Have you started a workout program? Good for you! Record your efforts to track progress toward your goals. After each workout, record these items: 1. The date. 2. Your activity (swimming, lifting weights, volleyball). 3. How long you exercised. 4. How you felt afterward. Having a chronicle of your improvement can be a great source of motivation.
Need a gym to get fit?
You don't need a gym membership to get in shape. You can fit physical activity into your daily life by doing things you enjoy outside of the gym. Play pickup basketball, go biking or walk around the park. Lift some hand weights while you watch your favorite TV show. Take the stairs at work or when shopping. Or take an exercise class through your community.
Natural movement: Going back to basics
Adding play and exploration into your fitness plan can help you move more efficiently and stay engaged.
Miss a workout? Don't give up!
If you're too busy to work out or simply don't feel up to exercise, take a day or two off. Be gentle with yourself if you need a break. After all, it's OK to be flexible. The important thing is to get back on track as soon as you can.
Mayo Clinic Minute: The road to hearing for baby Aida
Learn about a child with deafness treated at Mayo Clinic with cochlear implants.
Mayo Clinic Minute: How to hit your target heart rate
Learn how to exercise at your target heart rate.
Is exercise a chore? No more!
You're more likely to stick with an exercise program if you're having fun. If you're not enjoying your workouts, try something different. Join a volleyball or softball league. Take a ballroom dancing class. Trade your running shoes for a swimsuit. Remember, exercise doesn't have to be drudgery.
How plant-based food helps fight cancer
Got salad? A Mayo expert weighs in on the benefits of plant-based eating for cancer prevention.
How fit are you? See how you measure up
Determine your fitness level with this simple fitness assessment.
Heat and exercise: Keeping cool in hot weather
Use these tips to avoid problems when exercising outdoors in hot weather.
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