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The following guidelines will help you to plan your
exercise program. Remember that proper nutrition and
adequate rest are essential for successful results.
WHY EXERCISE?
Exercise has proven essential for good health and
general well-being. Regular participation in a well-
rounded exercise program results in a stronger and
more efficient heart, improved respiratory function,
increased stamina and endurance, better weight man-
agement and body fat control, increased ability to deal
with stress, and greater self-esteem and confidence.
EXERCISE INTENSITY
To maximize the benefits of exercising, it is important
to exercise with the proper intensity. The proper inten-
sity level can be found by using your heart rate as a
guide. For effective aerobic exercise, your heart rate
should be maintained at a level between 70% and
85% of your maximum heart rate as you exercise.
This is known as your training zone. You can find
your training zone in the table below. Training zones
are listed according to age and physical condition.
During the first few months of your exercise program,
keep your heart rate near the low end of your training
zone as you exercise. After a few months of regular
exercise, your heart rate can be increased gradually
until it is near the middle of your training zone as you
exercise.
To measure your
heart rate, use the
pulse sensor in the
handlebar. You can
also measure your
pulse by placing
two fingers on your
wrist. Stop exercis-
ing and take a six-
second heartbeat
count. Multiply the result by ten to find your heart rate.
(A six-second count is used because your heart rate
drops quickly when you stop exercising.) If your heart
rate is too high, decrease the intensity of your exer-
cise. If your heart rate is too low, increase the intensity
of your exercise.
WORKOUT GUIDELINES
A well-rounded workout includes three important parts:
A warm-up, lasting 5 to 10 minutes. Begin with slow,
controlled stretches, and progress to more rhythmic
stretches. This will increase the body temperature,
heart rate, and circulation in preparation for strenuous
exercise.
A training zone exercise, including 20 to 30 minutes
of exercising with your heart rate in your training zone.
A cool-down, consisting of 5 to 10 minutes of stretch-
ing. Thorough stretching offsets muscle contractions
and other problems caused when you stop exercising
suddenly. Stretching for increased flexibility is often
most effective during this phase. This phase should
leave you relaxed and comfortably tired.
To maintain or improve your condition, complete 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.
Remember, the key to success is to make exercise a
regular and enjoyable part of your everyday life.
CONDITIONING GUIDELINES
TRAINING ZONE (BEATS/MIN.)
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
AGE CONDITIONEDUNCONDITIONED
133–162
132–160
130–158
129–156
127–155
125–153
124–150
122–149
121–147
119–145
118–144
117–142
115–140
114–139
138–167
136–166
135–164
134–162
132–161
131–159
129–156
127–155
126–153
125–151
123–150
122–147
120–146
118–144
WARNING: Before beginning this or any
exercise program, consult your physician.
This is especially important for individuals
over the age of 35 orindividuals withpre-
existing health problems.