Extol Sports September 2017 | Page 16

HEALTH CORNER What Aerobic Exercise Should I Be Doing? Which is the best workout? A sports medicine specialist weighs in. Does your workout have you at a crossroads? You are not alone when it comes to deciding what aerobic exercise is best for you to incorporate into your workout routine. We reached out to a sports medicine specialist to answer some of your questions. “All aerobic exercises have pros and cons,” said Robin G. Curry, M.D., nonsurgical orthopedic and sports medicine specialist with Norton Orthopedic Specialists. “Aerobic machines like the elliptical, bike or rowing machine provide a much lower impact than the treadmill but still offer a full body workout — but they can be less effective at building bone d ensity.” Treadmills, on the other hand, are great for bone density but are higher impact, which can lead to joint pain, according to Dr. Curry. Regardless of BY JOE HALL which you choose, you also have to incorporate body-weight resistance exercises or strength training into your workouts, both of which can help with bone density. If you’re trying to drop a few pounds, Dr. Curry said you can’t go wrong incorporating both cardio (aerobic) and strength training into your workout. “Everyone’s body reacts to various types of exercise differently, so learn what works best for you,” she said. “I recommend alternating between machines and weighted exercises, starting slow and gradually building up over time. Don’t be afraid to incorporate some high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts in as well. HITTs have been shown to help with both weight loss and building endurance.” Getting back into exercising or trying it for the first time? “For someone just starting out, the treadmill or bike may be less complicated and more user- friendly,” Dr. Curry said, “then add in the elliptical and rowing machine as you get comfortable and want to try new exercises. Do a variety of exercises to not only help with muscle tone but also with bone density.” Regardless of which option you choose, Dr. Curry offers this advice: “The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least five days per week and strength training two times per week,” she said. Do you want to increase your endurance and take your exercise routine to a higher level? Norton Sports Health can help you train and condition properly to avoid injuries. Download free running or cycling training tips at NortonHealthcare.com/ FALLS CITY NEWS & HAND CRAFTED COCKTAILS HAND ROLLED CIGARS 2 LOCATIONS NOW OPEN 147 East Main Street, New Albany • 207 Spring Street, Jeffersonville 812.725.7475 • www.matchcigar.com 14 EXTOL SPORTS / SEPTEMBER 2017 BREWS Presented by extol podcasting DOWNLOAD OR LISTEN TO THE PODCAST AT EXTOLMAG.COM