5 Exercises everyone should do

Recently, the Guardian newspaper in the UK ran an article on what functional exercises their readers should be doing, as recommended by physiotherapists.  The article cheekily points out that the physios should be doing those same exercises themselves.  And they are quite right to say that.  You can read that article here.  The article is about strengthening muscles for everyday life, not just for sports people.

Exercising is generally safe, and the exercises recommended in the article are good ones to do.  I would never discourage a person from exercising unless there was a sensible reason.  If you are unsure if you should start an exercise programme, consult your physio or medical doctor for advice.

The exercises listed in the article are:

• Step ups

• Single leg sit-to-stand

• Bridges

• Heel raises

If you decide to do these sensible exercises, here are a few solid tips to help you make the most of the sessions.

1. Start!  The most effective exercise regimen is the one you actually do

2. Start off with fewer repetitions of each exercise than you think you can maximally manage.  Then do 2-3 sets of that number of repetitions.

3. Do this every second day until it becomes easier

4. Rest between the sets.  There is no need to rush when you are starting out

5. Have fun. 

6. Keep going, and slowly increase the number of repetitions you can do as you get stronger