Student Edition | Instructor Center | Home

Interactions Access Reading, 4/e

Pamela Hartmann, Los Angeles Unified School District
James Mentel, Los Angeles Unified School District

Health Care

Read

Are You in Shape?

A Are you in shape? To find out, ask yourself some questions: Do I exercise regularly? Do I ever walk places instead of driving my car? Do I ever play sports for fun? Do I ever take the stairs instead of the elevator? If you answered no to any or all of the above questions, you are probably out of shape and need to start a fitness program.

B Exercise is very important, and it has many benefits. It improves your strength and blood circulation. It gives you more energy. It can reduce stress and help you sleep, and it can help control your weight. In fact, the U.S. Surgeon General says that physical activity can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and osteoporosis (a disease that weakens the bones). If you don't do any physical activity, you will be at a higher risk for heart disease.

C The first step is to create a program. A good fitness program should be fun. It should involve both your arms and your legs, and it should help you to build endurance (the ability to do exercise for a long time). To make a good program for you, first you should think about the types of activities you like to do, what you think you are able to do, and when you will have time to do it. A good exercise program will involve cardiovascular activities, such as running, biking, swimming, roller skating, playing soccer or tennis, or jumping rope. It will also involve weight-bearing exercise, such as weightlifting, and stretching activities. Also, daily, low-intensity activities such as walking, gardening, dancing, and climbing stairs can contribute to your physical health.

D So what are you waiting for? Get off of the couch and start exercising. Sign up for yoga, tai chi, or pilates. Join a gym or a running club, or just start walking a half an hour every day. Every little bit helps!

Finding the Main Idea


1	What is the main idea of "Are You in Shape?"
		A)	Most Americans are not physically healthy.
		B)	Exercise can reduce stress.
		C)	Exercise is very important and should be part of your daily routine.
		D)	Not exercising is dangerous.

2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education
Any use is subject to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
McGraw-Hill Higher Education is one of the many fine businesses of The McGraw-Hill Companies.