What’s Your Intensity?

There are varying degrees of exercise intensity. Light-intensity activities, like cooking or shopping, don’t require much effort. Moderate-intensity activities like a brisk walk or flat bike ride work your heart, lungs and muscles, causing you to sweat. Vigorous-intensity activities increase your heart rate enough that you are breathing hard and fast.
 
Develop a diverse workout this week by incorporating something from every intensity level. Remember that fitness level and ability varies from person to person, so you may find an exercise to be more or less intense than your peers.

Recycle Your Resolutions

{Form} yoga studio in Decatur  invites the community to a New Year kick-off event this Saturday, January 7th. Doors open at 9am and the $12 yoga class will begin at 10am. Meet the teachers, see the space, exchange your old resolutions for chances to win gift certificates and have fun! All levels and  ages are invited. {Form} is located at 508 East Howard Avenue between the Ice House Lofts and Feast Restaurant.

This  grand opening and studio kick off  event has the theme of “Recycling Your Resolutions”. There is a tendency to make the same New Years Resolutions year in and year out and so they are encouraging people to exchange the old for something new with the focus on self-care and healthy living. For more information  click here.

“Spring” Into Action!

From the Amercian Heart Association:

Bring on the warm weather, sunny days and green grass – spring is here! That means it’s the perfect time to break out of your winter hibernation and enjoy outdoor physical activity. Check out these tips for getting active this spring:

• Start! Walking: Now that the days are longer and the weather is warmer, evenings are a great time to take a walk after dinner or work. Grab your dog and the kids and enjoy the new season.
• Be a Kid:  Grab a flying disk, jump rope, ball or roller skates and hit the park. Physical activity should be fun – partner up with a friend or loved one and learn some new tricks!
• Go Team! Spring is when lots of team sports start. Join a team at your community center or organize a neighborhood team. It’s a great way to make some new friends and be good to your heart!
• Lighten Up: Warmer weather means wearing lighter fabrics and fewer layers. Breathable fabric is best; it wicks sweat away from your body so you can stay cool. Drink lots of water, too!

Get a free Walking Route Ap for your Android!

Now you can create, find and track walking paths anytime, anywhere with the American Heart Association Walking Paths App. And the best part is, it’s FREE!  The app is available now for Android-based phones and will be available in May on iTunes. To find the app on your phone, search “American Heart Association Walking Paths” in the Android Market or App Store.

No Android? Check our www.mapmywalk.com or www.mapmyrun.com to create your own walking and/or running maps.

Exercise is Good for Mind, Body and Memory

From the Vancouver Sun:

Dectur StrideWalkers Taking a Walk at the Mall

Many seniors fear fitness activities due to chronic health conditions or concerns about injury or falls. Health problems or disabilities may keep you from getting active. Not knowing where to begin or what exercises are right for you can make starting a fitness program challenging. No matter your age or your current physical condition, you can benefit from exercise. Exercise is the key to staying strong, energetic and healthy as you get older.

To read the rest of the article, click here.