I started a new exercise regimen about three weeks ago, which consists of swimming, power walking, floor exercises and tai chi. Is this combination what I should be doing? Am I overdoing it? I'm just trying to get into a routine -- thanks for your help.

--fazijoon

Dear fazijoon,

Nice going! We think it's awesome you've been so proactive about your workouts. It sounds like you've created a well-rounded approach to exercise that includes some aerobic conditioning, some strength training and some flexibility work. But we wonder -- what are your goals?

You see fazijoon, it's very important to take your goals and objectives into consideration when developing an exercise program. Do you want to trim up your waistline or broaden your back? Are you aiming to run a 10K or are you simply looking for more everyday energy? Are you going to enter a power-lifting contest or would being strong enough to open a heavy door on a windy day make you happy? Asking yourself these sorts of questions will help you decide what types of activities you should be doing -- as well as how hard, how long and how often you should be doing them. Designing a program based on your answers may mean the difference between success and failure -- after all, if you don't know where you're going, it's hard to tell when you've arrived.

Setting Your Goals
When establishing goals, think both long-term and short-term. For instance, your long-term goal might be to lose 50 pounds. It could take you weeks, months or even years to reach that point. Taking on a task that monumental might make you feel discouraged -- like you could never, ever get there. For that reason, it's wise to set smaller, short-term goals that we like to call "stepping stone" goals. In this case, your stepping stone goals might be to lose two pounds a week. That way, you have the chance of celebrating the victory of accomplishment at least once a week. Because you're always in the process of succeeding, you've got a better chance of staying motivated for the long haul. (By the way, we think it's important to evaluate your current fitness status to help set goals. Your physician or trainer can help you determine your baseline starting point.)

Choosing Your Workout
Once you know what your goals are, think about the type of workout you'd like. Find a workout -- whether it's running, kickboxing or ice skating -- that makes you want to get out of bed in the morning. With so many different fitness activities to choose from you should have no problem finding an activity that floats your boat. But even if you find an activity you love, remember to reward yourself when you do well and give yourself a break when you have setbacks.

How Much is Too Much?
Now, to the root of your question: Are you overdoing or underdoing it? It's hard for us to answer that based on the amount of information you've given us (we know what you're doing but have no information on the duration or intensity of your workouts.) If we had to guess, we'd say that you're on the right track. However, you should probably add some "total body" weight training to your routine to compliment your floor exercises and increase the amount of strength work you're doing. We can also apply some general "F.I.T." guidelines to the information you've given us to ensure you are staying within a safe yet effective workout range for the activities you're doing. Check out our recommendations in the chart below:

Remember, fazijoon, the most important thing about your routine is that you have a passion for building a healthier body and mind. Enjoy the road towards a healthier lifestyle!

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