Fitness

Get Active, Get Healthy with Virgin HealthMiles

Virgin HealthMiles is a web-based resource that allows employees and spouses/same-sex domestic partners to track and monitor all of their fitness information in one place and challenge others to friendly competitions. The program is offered at no cost and eligible employees and spouses will receive a free pedometer after they enroll. Learn more about Virgin HealthMiles, brought to you by LM HealthWorks.

• Consider working with a physical therapist, personal trainer, yoga instructor, or other qualified professional. Some studies suggest that expert supervision and individualized workouts produce more effective results.
• Choose exercises you enjoy. Strength training with light weights, yoga, treadmill walking, and water aerobics are activities that have proved to be effective for relieving chronic back pain in clinical trials.
• Avoid movement that triggers more pain. Don't do exercises that stress the lower back, like old-fashioned sit-ups, leg lifts while lying on your back, and should presses or bicep curls done while standing.
• Join an exercise program for people with back pain. You'll enjoy the fellowship and mutual support, and you'll be more likely to stick with exercise than if you go it alone.

• Choose a variety of exercises to maximize health benefits. Aerobic exercise invovles your large muscle groups and raises your heart rate for heart health. Include strength training at least twice a week, for bone and musicle health.

• Make your home game system your home exercise system. Many systems even feature workout modes in addition to the more familiar multiplayer options.

• Most cable companies offer free on-demand exercise programs. Give them a try! Or pop in a fitness DVD. Try a variety to keep up your interest.