ACSM PUBLIC INFORMATION
...generating interest, awareness, knowledge
A large part of ACSM's mission is devoted to public awareness and
education about the positive aspects of physical activity for people of
all ages, from all walks of life. Most people can and should exercise.
However, there are individuals who should get their doctor's permission
prior to beginning an exercise program. Anyone with an unstable medical
condition will want to seek an exercise prescription from their doctor.
Injury may also require an individual to wait for the healing to be
complete prior to beginning exercise. If you have cardiac, pulmonary, or
metabolic disease, you should begin your exercise in a medically
supervised environment.
start slowly - listen to your body and your
doctor...
For moderate endurance exercise, simply walk a little further each
time you exercise and gradually increase the pace of your walks as the
weeks pass. For strength exercise, lift a weight that you usually lift
but do it more times than normal. Before beginning an aggressive
exercise program, you should see your doctor or an exercise professional
for screening tests and program advice.
the biggest risk to exercise is not
starting...
You should consider several factors when choosing an aerobic activity
for your personal fitness program.
impact
Some activities involve jumping or pounding that may be uncomfortable
or can lead to injury. Swimming, cross country skiing, in-line skating,
cycling, and rowing are easier on the joints.
convenience
Some aerobic activities require expensive equipment, are seasonal, or
are not readily available in certain locations.
skill
Activities that require a lot of skill may discourage you. Try to
avoid activities that do not fit with your skill base, and don't quit
before you've developed the skills you need for the activity to become
enjoyable.
social factor
Exercising with a group can be fun and beneficial. Sometimes
exercising with other people is such fun that you're more likely to
continue your fitness program. For safety reasons, some aerobic
activities are best done with a group - From the ACSM Fitness
Book, Second Edition published by Human Kinetics.
You should always be able to catch your breath and speak comfortably
while exercising. It is also normal to sense effort, and maybe even
discomfort, but you should never sense pain. Learn to use a Rating of
Perceived Exertion Scale.* Always remember to warm up slowly and to cool
down gradually. If you use a trainer, be sure to check credentials. The
exercise industry is not well regulated, so be sure to ask questions and
seek ACSM certified individuals.
* The National Institute on Aging publishes a Rating of Perceived
Exertion Scale in the Guide on Exercise. The publication is free and can
be obtained by calling 1-800-222-2225.
Guidelines for Healthy Aerobic Activity
Calculating Your Exercise Heart Rate Range
ACSM's
Active Aging Tips
AARP Walking Programs for People 50+
Public
Information Brochures
ACSM's
Fit Society Page Newsletter
Healthy People 2010 Slides
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