Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Tip #2 Exercise

Tips To Quit Smoking

It only takes two cigarettes per day to have a detrimental affect on your cardiovascular and heart function. A study conducted at at the Miriam Hospital in Providence, R.I ascertained that people who did not exercise where twice as likely to start smoking again.

Exercise could arguably be one of the greatest things you can do for your health. It is a powerful tool in obtaining a smoke free lifestyle. Exercise will give you more energy, improve brain function, reduce stress and allow you to sleep better and deeper. Sweating also rids the body of many toxins.

Exercise is a exceptional way to repress nicotine cravings. When you begin to have a craving, go for a run, ride your bike, play catch or do some push-ups and/or sit-ups. By the time you've finished, your craving should have subsided substantially and you have taken a step to a healthier lifestyle. Physical activity is also an excellent way to counteract any possible weight gain that may happen when quitting smoking.

When commencing a new exercise routine start slow. Start by running for 20 minutes a day, three times a week then increase the duration of the run by 5 minutes every week or two. If you are lifting weights, begin with light weights and gradually increase the weight week to week. If you are new to an exercise or routine, consult a trainer or physician. Do some research on technique. Remember quality over quantity.

Set goals! When you are running, set a time goal for distance and by what date you want to accomplish this goal by. Make goals reasonable. If you make them too ambitious, it will discourage you. Goals should motivate and empower you.

Here are some exercises.

-tennis
-squash
-biking
-running
-racquetball
-baseball
-weight training
-elliptical machine
-stationary bike
-sit-ups/push-ups
-climbing stairs of an apartment building
-going for a walk
-yoga (great for strength, flexibility, and oxygen intake)
-aerobics
-swimming
-basketball
-football
-soccer
-hockey
-rock climbing

There are many many more. Find an activity you will love to do.

Next installment - Tip #3 Reasons To Quit Smoking

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