FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
(& ANSWERS ON EXERCISE, HEALTH & NUTRITION)

1. What are the health benefits of doing regular moderate exercise?
2. What if I'm not fit enough to keep up?
3. Will I need to go on a diet?
4. What do I need to wear?

Q1. What are the health benefits of doing regular moderate exercise?

Looking good from exercise should be considered a bonus benefit when weighed up against the impact daily activity has on our quality of health. Not only will you feel much better and be more energetic, your body will also be better protected against the ravages of ageing and disease.

The world's leading health organizations have proved conclusively just how powerful the benefits of regular moderate exercise can be, including:

• Regular exercise halves the risk of having a heart attack and also doubles your chance of recovery if you ever did have one.
• Exercise significantly combats the build-up of dangerous cholesterol in the bloodstream.
• Exercise improves concentration and effective decision making by 70%. A good career move!
• Even when starting exercise in later life, moderate exercise can reduce the risk of a stroke by 66%.
• Obesity is linked to a deterioration in health and causes premature death. Exercise is a major factor in weight loss and sustainable management.
• Exercise reduces the risk of loss of mobility in older people by 40%.
• Exercise can increase your life expectancy by up to 3 hours for each hour of exercise.
• Many people can successfully combat the debilitating effects of stress or depression solely through exercise.
• Exercise builds healthier bones, improves posture and greatly reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

Q2. What if I'm not fit enough to keep up?

Regardless of your current fitness level, there is a program that's right for you. Not joining a gym because you are too unfit is like avoiding the hairdresser because your hair is a mess! Simply follow your instructor's advice, progress steadily and you'll be surprised at how quickly you improve.

Q3. Will I need to go on a diet?

A sensible eating plan will maximise your results, however this should not include an unrealistic diet that is too hard to maintain. Your qualified instructors should be able to offer helpful guidelines in this area.

Q4. What do I need to wear?

Wear whatever feels comfortable. Shorts or tights with a loose fitting t-shirt are ideal, along with appropriate sporting footwear.

Source: Fitness Queensland 2001