| While cardio exercises can significantly improve overall | | | | beef), carbohydrates (oatmeal, potatoes, beans), and |
| health, many fitness experts agree that | | | | good fats (mono and polyunsaturated). Keep menus |
| strength-training exercises should also be incorporated | | | | varied and servings moderate, not large. Remember to |
| into every man's fitness schedule to achieve good | | | | drink plenty of water throughout the day to hydrate |
| health. Strength-training can benefit the entire system, | | | | and flush out your system. |
| leading to fat loss, muscle growth and a more toned | | | | • Don't push yourself too hard or expect |
| body. Keep the following guidelines in mind when you | | | | results too quickly. Chart your weekly exercises and |
| begin a program: | | | | set a realistic one month goal. |
| • Aim to begin exercising two days a week. | | | | • Sore muscles are a natural part of getting in |
| Begin with 8-10 repetitions (a complete action, like one | | | | shape, but stop and consult a doctor if you encounter |
| bicep curl) of 8 different kinds of exercises for each | | | | sharp pains, swollen joints or if the pain persists for |
| day. Do one set of repetitions until your muscle is tired, | | | | several days. |
| stop, then begin another exercise. | | | | • If possible, get one-on-one instruction from a |
| • Once you find you can do all repetitions | | | | trainer or instructor. This will help you learn correct |
| without tiring your muscles out, gradually add to the | | | | form and may help you avoid muscle and joint |
| number of repetitions. | | | | problems later on. |
| • Vary workout routines, targeting certain | | | | • Do some warm-up exercises and stretches |
| muscle groups (like arms) one day and different ones | | | | before you being your session. It could be as simple as |
| (like abdomen) the next. This allows each muscle | | | | jogging in place for 5-10 minutes. |
| group you exercise to rest for one day. Complement | | | | • Check with a doctor before beginning a |
| strength training with cardio exercises like walking, | | | | strength-training program if you have a previous or |
| biking or swimming. | | | | existing medical condition or health problems. |
| • Keep exercises basic: start with bicep curls, | | | | • Consider taking a supplement to assist you |
| chest presses, and overheads instead of jumping right | | | | in building better muscle and a leaner profile. Coupled |
| into complicated weight machines. | | | | with a healthy, balanced diet and a regular exercise |
| • Pay attention to your diet. Ingredients that | | | | program, it's an ideal system for weight-management |
| help build muscle mass are protein (chicken, tuna, lean | | | | and muscle-development routines. |