This year, I will make my heart work harder
Every great journey begins with a single step, especially the journey to better heart health. Here's our 12-step program to get your heart beating faster
Make a commitment now to add a new activity each month (or substitute the activity of your choice) from now until the end of the year. You’ll ring out 2007 in better health than you started.
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January. Forget joining a gym during their busiest month — set up your own home gym. Dust off that treadmill or stationary bike and get out your MP3 player. Or shop for a fitness DVD that will get you moving.
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February. Grab the kids and head outside to build a snowman or go tobogganing.
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March. Stretch for at least 10 minutes each day, and following each workout. You’ll relieve the physical stress that results from repetitive actions and sitting at a computer and reduce soreness from exercising. You’ll also increase flexibility and muscle strength.
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April. The perfect antidote to April showers? Blast your favourite CDs and dance along.
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May. Plan some fun runs. Whether you race, jog or walk, organized runs offer you a goal to work towards. Depending on where you live, you can probably find one or two a month from now until the colder weather arrives.
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June. Ride a bicycle built for you. It’s a low-impact way of toning legs and pumping your heart. Kick off the season with the Becel Ride for Heart (go for a few practice spins first), then keep your bike handy to run errands or to go for an after-dinner spin.
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July. Row, row, row your boat. This low-impact conditioner works all major muscle groups, and is a great way to meet people. Lone rowers can kayak, canoe or use a rowing machine for the same benefits.
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August. Get in the swim! This ideal warm-weather exercise has dual benefits, providing cardio conditioning and a resistance workout in one.
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September. Sign up for an indoor team sport like badminton, lacrosse, soccer or hockey to maintain your fitness level through the winter.
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October. Crisp air, cool weather and beautiful autumn colours make this the perfect month to enjoy weekend hikes in the country
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November. Push the fitness envelope by incorporating weights into your usual routine. Performing a few sets with dumbbells every couple of days will help build muscle and bone mass.
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December. Dig the skis out of storage so you’re ready for the season’s first big snowfall. What better way to close out your healthiest year ever than schussing down the slopes or gliding on cross country skis.