Dynamic, static, isometric, and ballistic are a few of many words used to describe different kinds of exercise. Remembering all these words isn't important. Knowing a few simple rules for exercising is. These rules keep people on the right track for meeting their health and fitness goals.

Blood circulation, strength, and endurance are improved by continuous movement. Dynamic exercise activities keep joints and muscles moving. Examples are swimming, walking, cross country skiing, bicycling, weight training, house cleaning, and shoveling snow.

Strength can also be improved by exerting pressure but no muscle movement. Lean with your back against a wall for 15 seconds with your knees bent as if sitting in a chair? This is static exercise also known as isometric exercise. Another example is pushing on a heavy couch that won't move. Without movement of the arms and legs the attempt is static exercise. Static exercise drives up blood pressure in an instant. People with circulation problems and high blood pressure should avoid exerting pressure without muscle movement. If you perform static exercise, never hold your breath. This can drive blood pressure dangerously high.

Stretching exercises may be dynamic or static. How they are performed determines this. Static stretching is good for the body. It shouldn't be painful. The stretch is held steady for 30 seconds. This is the safe way to stretch.

People who bounce during the stretch increase their risk for injury. This is ballistic (dynamic) stretching. Athletes often train this way to improve jumping or throwing skills.

Find out through a medical checkup what your activity and exercise restrictions are. People with circulatory problems should avoid activities that might drive up their blood pressure and heart rate too quickly.

Choose exercise activities that you enjoy and that are readily accessible. To learn more about exercise and fitness, visit your local bookstore or library, or call your local YMCA or YWCA.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go