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Exercise guidelines help you 'get active your way'

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The government has raised the bar for physical activity levels — and nobody's exempt, not even children or older adults. And exercise researchers couldn't be happier.

The newest Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, are the most comprehensive federal recommendations ever and the new gold standard.

Don't start exercising without preparation

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If you're 21 years old or older and live a sedentary lifestyle, don't start any exercise regimen without first getting a doctor's approval. That's Step No. 1 of Scot Long's advice for getting off the couch and in shape.

Find the right tools to get into shape

Luis Castro, a fitness specialist at Baptist Healthplex in Jackson, passes a stability ball from his hands to his feet.

Remember when getting (or staying) in shape meant jogging around the neighborhood, suffering through a dozen or so reps of push-ups and sit-ups, or some old-fashioned jump-roping Muhammad Ali style? At most, the investment was a pair of sneakers and a couple of dumbbells.

Rebounding Alternating Lunge (Thighs)

Jeannie Mullen of Jackson demonstrates rebounding alternating lunges with trainer Lisa Newman.

Purpose: The alternating lunge lets you move in a third dimension - vertically or up and down.

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Don't fear the personal trainer

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You may be asking yourself, “Why work with a personal trainer in the first place?”
The sounds of encouragement from your personal trainer will help you overcome obstacles and road blocks along the way to the perfect you. A personal trainer (PT) is certified by a number of organizations.

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