Criterium Financial, Ltd.

The desire to win is born in most of us. The will to win is a matter of training. The manner of winning is a matter of honour.
— Margaret Thatcher

Fitness

At Criterium Financial we believe that good physical fitness is an important part of your preparation for retirement. Here is news from the Cycling world, via Google, some general exercise and health information from The American College of Sports Medicine, and links to stories from Dr. Nick DiNubile’s “The Training Room” weblog. Use this as a starting point for your own exploration of physical fitness and health.

Fitness Information from ACSM.org

Start slowly – listen to your body and your doctor… | For moderate endurance exercise, simply walk a little further each time you exercise and gradually increase the pace of your walks as the weeks pass. For strength exercise, lift a weight that you usually lift but do it more times than normal. Before beginning an aggressive exercise program, you should see your doctor or an exercise professional for screening tests and program advice.

The biggest risk to exercise is not starting… | You should consider several factors when choosing an aerobic activity for your personal fitness program.

Impact | Some activities involve jumping or pounding that may be uncomfortable or can lead to injury. Swimming, cross country skiing, in-line skating, cycling, and rowing are easier on the joints.

Convenience | Some aerobic activities require expensive equipment, are seasonal, or are not readily available in certain locations.

Skill | Activities that require a lot of skill may discourage you. Try to avoid activities that do not fit with your skill base, and don’t quit before you’ve developed the skills you need for the activity to become enjoyable.

Social Factor | Exercising with a group can be fun and beneficial. Sometimes exercising with other people is such fun that you’re more likely to continue your fitness program. For safety reasons, some aerobic activities are best done with a group – From the ACSM Fitness Book, Second Edition published by Human Kinetics.

You should always be able to catch your breath and speak comfortably while exercising. It is also normal to sense effort, and maybe even discomfort, but you should never sense pain. Learn to use a Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale.† Always remember to warm up slowly and to cool down gradually. If you use a trainer, be sure to check credentials. The exercise industry is not well regulated, so be sure to ask questions and seek ACSM certified individuals.

The National Institute on Aging publishes a Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale in the Guide on Exercise. The publication is free and can be obtained by calling 1-800-222-2225.

Sports, Health & Fitness Information:

The American College of Sports Medicine

FitTV

Fit Tool Box

Target Heart Rate Calculator

Fit Cuisine Recipes

Art of the Athlete

Discovery Health

AARP Walking Programs for People 50+