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Walking Exercises
Remember
- If you have oxygen, check with your physician about the correct amount
to use when you're walking.
- Do not attempt to walk and talk while beginning your exercise
program.
- Inhale through your nose and exhale through pursed lips.
- Exhale at least twice as long as you inhale. Don't force the air out
during exhalation.
Walking
- Start with short walks. Your breathing muscles and your walking muscles
need to get into shape.
- Use "rhythmic breathing". Count the number of steps you
take while inhaling and double the number of steps for exhalation. Example:
2 steps -- inhale, 4 step -- exhale. Do not change the rhythm from inhalation
to exhalation.
- With practice you may find that a 3 to 1 rhythm is more comfortable
than 2 to 1. Use the rhythm that is most comfortable for you.
- Gradually increase your walking distance as you get stronger. Try
to add a little more distance every week. Don't overextend yourself.
- Set reasonable goals. Plan rest stops. Don't allow yourself to get
over tired
- During inclement weather, or times of the year when you're most uncomfortable,
you can get your exercise in climate controlled areas like shopping
malls or in a more formal environment like a hospital's rehabilitation
area.
- Remember, go slow, don't rush, get stronger and most of all, enjoy
yourself.
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