There will never be a more important time of your exercise routine than the first few weeks. Here are some tips to follow to help you build a successful routine!

1.	Pace yourself. Keep your heart rate in a comfortable intensity zone. Work hard enough to make your heart stronger without overexerting.
2.	Slow down or rest when you need to. You might find it difficult to keep going at first. That’s fine. You’ll get stronger as you continue to exercise.
3.	Listen to your body. You can expect occasional minor soreness after exercising. That’s just a positive sign you are using your muscles.
4.	Don’t worry if you are unable to keep up with others. The important thing is for you to keep going. If you stick with exercising, your endurance will soon improve.
5.	Warm up and cool down. Like an engine on a cold morning, your body needs a chance to warm up. A warm-up gradually prepares your muscles and joints for exercise. Then when you finish your workout, your body needs a chance to cool down slowly. This means you should slow your heart rate gently. Keep moving at a slower pace. Don’t stop abruptly by standing still, sitting, lying down, or bending over with your hands on your knees. Your heart needs to come gradually back to its resting rate.
6.	Remember the importance of water. The body’s need for water is second in importance only to its need for oxygen. Drink 8 cups of water a day. NOTE: Follow your physician’s medical directives closely. Drinking a lot of water is not advised for certain medical conditions. Drink water at regular intervals throughout the day and during mealtimes. Fruit juices, lemonade, crushed ice and popsicles all meet the need for water! Drink water before you feel thirsty. During physical activity, the body loses water faster in sweat than it can absorb into the digestive system. Be aware of common dehydration warning signs! These include muscle cramps, nausea, loss of coordination, and disorientation.
7.	Be safe. Before starting any exercise program, remember to talk to your doctor.