Exercise Tips for Baby Boomers: Don't Let The Effects Of Aging Slow You Down.

CHICAGO -- From Diane Keaton to President Bush, the first baby boomers are turning 60 this year, and they don't want the effects of aging slowing them down. But doctors are seeing an increase in injuries to boomers' knees, ankles, lower back and shoulders. E[acute accent]One of the best things boomers can do to avoid injuries is exercise regularly. "With regular exercise, boomers can help protect themselves from injuries," says Greg Bahnfleth, training and education manager, Life Fitness Academy, the education department at exercise equipment manufacturer Life Fitness. "Don't think of exercise as an ounce of prevention; it's much more than that. It is pounds of prevention." E[acute accent]Here are some exercise tips from Bahnfleth for baby boomers who want to decrease their risk of injury and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle:

E[acute accent]--See Your Doctor. Before beginning any exercise program, discuss with your doctor your health history, previous injuries, physical issues such as tendonitis, arthritis or lower back pain, or any recent falls or fractures.

E[acute accent]--See a Certified Fitness Professional. A certified fitness professional can help you find the safest and most efficient path to fitness and a healthy lifestyle.

E[acute accent]--Be Realistic. Set up an exercise schedule that's realistic given your current activity level and time commitments. If you've never had a regular workout routine, begin slowly so your body can adjust and you won't feel overwhelmed.

E[acute accent]--Exercise Regularly. Boomers who exercise during the week will be less prone to injuries than "weekend warriors" who don't train regularly.

E[acute accent]--Warm Up and Stretch. Cold, tight muscles are more prone to injury. Start each workout with walking in place, riding a Lifecycle bike or doing jumping jacks for a few minutes, and then stretching slowly and gently.

E[acute accent]--Mix It Up. An effective fitness regimen includes cardiovascular (e.g., bicycling, running, swimming), strength training and flexibility exercises.

E[acute accent]--Strengthen Your Core. Your core includes your lower back, abdominals, pelvic floor and hip/glute muscles. A strong core helps your extremities do a better job while you are exercising, playing sports or performing everyday activities. To strengthen your core while sitting at your desk, sit on an exercise ball instead of a chair for a few minutes each day.

E[acute accent]--Mimic Movements. Include exercises that mimic everyday activities or sports movements, such as lifting something heavy onto a shelf or swinging a golf club or tennis racket. Some exercise equipment, including the G5 Cable Motion Gym from Life Fitness (www.lifefitness.com), allows you to replicate everyday and sports-specific movements, such as golf, tennis and lifting motions.

E[acute accent]--Make it Fun. Vary your routine and choose activities you enjoy to help prevent boredom.