Exercise: Get Up Off the Couch!

Don't Do Too Much

For some people, exercise can be an obsession. They work out all the time, spend hours in the gym, take substances to bulk up, or run until they're physically sick or injured. Sometimes exercise stops being about health and gets focused only on results – numbers on a scale, clothing sizes, the mass of your muscles, or the reflection in the mirror.

Basing your fitness routine entirely on how you want to look afterwards is not necessarily the right goal. Everyone's body is different, and what is healthy for one person can look much different than for another.

Moderation

As with all things, moderation is best when it comes to exercise. Consistency with a small amount of movement can be better in the long run, than sporadic bursts of intense action. You will also be more likely to stay motivated this way, and your body will appreciate the regular physical maintenance. Moderation when exercising differs by person. Don't be tempted to compare yourself to classmates and friends. 

If you think of exercise as being about your health, it can help keep things in perspective. Feeling better and being more confident in how you look is the reward for being healthy and fit.