Friday, October 26, 2007

Health Tips for October 26

Health Tip: Exercise Doing Everyday Chores

Getting needed exercise can be as simple as performing a few household chores regularly.

Here are some suggestions, courtesy of HealthGuidance.org:

* Gardening -- Water plants with a watering can instead of a hose, and alternate carrying the can on each arm.
* Sweeping -- Clean not just your driveway, but offer to do your neighbors', as well as the sidewalks.
* Washing your car -- Use a bucket that you have to carry, not a hose.
* Cleaning and re-arranging -- Thoroughly clean out rooms in your home, carefully moving objects to clean every area.
* Walking or bike riding -- Leave the car home, if practical, to get to work or to run an errand.

Health Tip: Inline Skating

Inline skating offers a fun, low-impact workout that can burn as many calories as cycling or running.

About 20 million people in the United States use inline skates each year, but as many as two-thirds don't wear safety gear, says the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. About 11,000 inline skaters in the United States suffer head or face injuries each year, the agency estimates.

The National Safety Council says inline skaters should always wear elbow and knee pads, a helmet, light gloves, and wrist guards.

If you're new to inline skating, you should take a course to learn the basics. Stick to level ground, and be alert for other people on bike paths, trails and sidewalks. Don't skate on roads, and be especially careful when crossing streets.

Look for potential hazards such as potholes, water or debris, and don't skate on wet or oily surfaces.

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