When starting out with an exercise program, many are confused on where to begin. However, there is no need to waste your time and money on any of those fancy, schmancy informercial workouts constantly bombarding your senses. The bottom line is that performing any type of physical activity will yield results. The simplest, and one of the most beneficial exercises of all? Good old fashioned walking and jogging.
While you can certainly hop on the treadmill at your local gym, there are few things more satisfying than soaking in the fresh air while taking a brisk jog or walk around your neighborhood, be it at work or at home. Of course, it is all weather and safety permitting, depending on location.
For those of you looking to start up a simple program to shape up, or even those who are already fit, but want to add a little cardio to the mix, here is a wonderfully illustrated chart depicting a natural progression on the road to being able to jog 30 minutes straight. With varying athletic levels, some may find this program to be too basic, while others may struggle initially.
The point is to go at your own pace. If it's too easy, skip a step or two. If it's too hard, don't move onto the next level until you have successfully completed the current one. With that said, there is no reason why anyone of reasonable health should not be able to perform this program to stellar results. All it takes is 30 minutes or less three times per week over a 9 week period, and that optimum, lean summer figure will be yours to stay. Just make sure to keep it up once the 9 weeks are over!
