Fitness basics
Learning Center
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 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.
Heart rate: What's normal?
A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate above or below that may signal a problem.
Going up? Take the stairs
Work a little extra activity into your day by skipping the elevator when you can. Start by taking the stairs anytime you go up or down one floor. Then work your way up to three or four floors or more. Better yet, make climbing stairs a workout in itself.
Getting in shape after having a baby
A baby can be a great motivator to finally set healthy habits that stick — beginning with exercise. Mayo Clinic experts weigh in.
Fitness: Tips for staying motivated
Fitness is for life. Motivate yourself with these practical tips.
Fitness: Take it 1 step at a time
When it comes to fitness, give yourself something to work toward. Start with simple goals and then progress to longer range goals. Remember to make your goals realistic and achievable. It's easy to get frustrated and give up if your goals are too ambitious. If you haven't exercised in a while, a short-term goal might be to walk 10 minutes five days a week. An intermediate goal might be to walk 30 minutes five times a week. A long-term goal might be to complete a 5K walk.
Fitness training: Elements of a well-rounded routine
Is your fitness training program complete? Here's help to make sure you have all the basics in your program.
Fitness tip: Include your friends
Exercise doesn't have to be drudgery. And you don't need to go it alone. Sign up for a group exercise class or join a softball, soccer or volleyball team. Work out with a friend at a health club or gym. Start a walking group with friends and neighbors.
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