In the United States, an estimated 50 percent of adults are overweight. It is no secret that excess weight increases our risk of health problems including coronary heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and cancer. The good news is, there are many benefits to adopting a regular exercise program including improved cardiovascular health, maintaining long-term weight loss, preventing weight regain, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol and even increasing metabolism.

When beginning an exercise regimen, it is recommended to start with thirty minutes of low to moderate-intensity workouts in order to maintain cardiovascular health and to start building strength and endurance. Also, a regular exercise routine can help to improve psychological well-being, improve adherence to a nutrition plan, and help to replace sedentary habits that can lead to snacking. Below are some examples of moderate- intensity work out classes offered on the VHP portal, to help patients into a steady workout regimen.

Yoga: This smooth flowing practice connects mind, breath and body through moderate, easy-to follow movement. The practice includes plenty of stretching for all parts of the body and some amounts of strengthening and balance to help you feel more flexible and toned.

Pilates is the perfect low impact way to strengthen and stretch your entire body. With an emphasis on core work, breathing and flow, You’ll get stronger, more sculpted muscles and gain flexibility.

Stretch and Strengthen Chair workout: Get your daily workout in without even leaving your desk! This low impact, low intensity workout is a great way to break up your day and sneak in exercise.

Barre (less): Tight muscles limit our range of motion and often set our body up for impending injury. We utilize a chair or table as a prop to balance while performing exercises that focus on control and increasing flexibility to improve overall strength. You will also lift and lengthen while toning and actively stretching. This class is perfect for anyone who wants to tone while working on their flexibility.