We want to get the most out of our workouts, but which one is the best for us? In a new health report called “Starting to Exercise,” I-Min Lee, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, recommends these forms of exercise. And running doesn’t even make the list!Swimming - Authors of the report say “you might call swimming the perfect workout” and that’s because it works every muscle in your body while raising your heart rate. And since you do it in the water, it doesn’t strain your body.
Tai chi - This Chinese martial art combines deep breathing, relaxation and flowing movements and research shows tai chi can “help to reduce stress, improve posture, balance and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in the legs.”
Strength training - This includes lifting weights, using resistance bands, climbing stairs, Pilates, yoga, and body resistance exercises like squats and sit ups. These help slow down the rate of bone and muscle loss, help posture and flexibility as well.
Walking - It’s easy to do, works your lower body muscles, gets your heart rate up, and lowers stress, too. Plus, it’s low-impact, so it’s great for exercise newbies. The Harvard team recommends beginners start with 10 to 15 minute walks and build up to 30 to 60 minute hikes.
Kegel exercises - Surprised to see this on the list? These pelvic floor exercises made the cut because they help with stress urinary incontinence, something no one wants to deal with.
Source: Cosmopolitan UK