Exercise Frequency, Suggested Stretches

A cardiovascular exercise period, including 20 to 30 minutes of exercise with your heart rate in your training zone.

A cool-down, with 5 to 10 minutes of stretching. Thorough stretching helps to offset problems caused when you stop exercising suddenly. Stretching after exercise is also very effective for increasing flexibility.

EXERCISE FREQUENCY

To maintain or improve your condition, plan three workouts each week, with at least one day of rest between workouts. After a few months of regular exer- cise, you may complete up to five workouts each week, if desired. Find the best time of day for your workouts, and then stick with it.

SUGGESTED STRETCHES

The correct form for several basic stretches is shown at the right. Move slowly as you stretchÑnever bounce.

1. Toe Touch Stretch

Stand with your knees bent slightly and slowly bend forward from your hips. Allow your back and shoulders to relax as you reach down toward your toes as far as possible. Hold for 15 counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times. Stretches: Hamstrings, back of knees and back.

2. Hamstring Stretch

Sit with one leg extended. Bring the sole of the opposite foot toward you and rest it against the inner thigh of your extended leg. Reach toward your toes as far as possible. Hold for 15 counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times for each leg. Stretches: Hamstrings, lower back and groin.

3. Calf/Achilles Stretch

With one leg in front of the other, reach forward and place your hands against a wall. Keep your back leg straight and your back foot flat on the floor. Bend your front leg, lean for- ward and move your hips toward the wall. Hold for 15 counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times for each leg. To cause further stretching of the achilles tendons, bend your back leg as well. Stretches: Calves, achilles tendons and ankles.

4. Quadriceps Stretch

With one hand against a wall for balance, reach back and grasp one foot with your other hand. Bring your heel as close to your buttocks as possible. Hold for 15 counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times for each leg. Stretches: Quadriceps and hip muscles.

5. Inner Thigh Stretch

Sit with the soles of your feet together and your knees out- ward. Pull your feet toward your groin area as far as possible. Hold for 15 counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times. Stretches: Quadriceps and hip muscles.