The most important step is the first one. If you are not in the habit of taking any exercise then you need to get started. You may have heard the phrase "no pain, no gain" but the good news is that is rubbish!! At this stage if exercise is hurting then you are trying too hard. Start by doing a little walking then gradually increase the distance and/or the speed up to the point when you can talk with a little breathlessness.

Try and build exercise into your lifestyle. Little and often is a good practice but your exercise has to fit in with everything else in your life.

Once you are comfortable walking for 30 to 45 minutes try jogging for a few meters every now and then. After a short jog return to walking until you have recovered your breath. Build up the jogging parts and reduce the walking parts until you can jog for 30 to 40 minutes. A heathly exercise regime would include 30 to 40 minutes at least three times in a week.

FAQs

Q. Do I need a health check from my G.P. before I start?

A. You only need to se your G.P. if you think you are ill so there is no need for a check up unless you suspect a problem.

Q. What sort of kit do I need?

A. At the walking stage you only need clothes that are suitable for the weather. Once you start jogging a pair of trainers will help you avoid injuries but don't spend a lot of money until you are sure that you are going to enjoy this type of exercise and keep it up for a while.