Tips on How to Start Exercising from Scratch.

Selecting an exercise regime takes careful thought.

• Notify your doctor before starting any physical activity. Based on your medical history, the doctor may have specific guidelines for you to follow.
• Do a web search with your ZIP code or city for health clubs, gyms, fitness centers.
• Quiz co-workers for recommendations.
• Know what to expect. Read information on the class you chose. Ask questions.
• Start easy and slow. Consider low impact at first. You can always advance to a higher level.
• Monitor blood pressure before and after class.
• Check glucose levels before and after each exercise session.
• Adjust diabetes medications to prevent a hypoglycemia episode. (Ask for help to calculate the numbers as needed.)
• Always include a warmup before exercise and cool down after the session.
• Stay hydrated. Bring water with you.
• Bring a snack if needed. A diabetic energy bar. (15grams = one serving of carbohydrate.)
• Feeling discomfort. Immediately stop exercising if any nausea, dizziness, headaches, and pain occurs.
• Prevent low blood sugars. Carry hard candy.
• Wear diabetes identification. Notify the person in charge of the class that you have diabetes.
• Make sure family and friends are aware of your new exercise program (time and days).
• Notify your doctor when you stop exercising.

Remember, there is nothing wrong with switching out the type or level of exercise if it is not working for you.

Explore new avenues, enjoy yourself and meet new people.

Disclaimer: My food and nutrition articles are for informational purposes only. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and orders.

Thank you for reading! :-)