If you’re looking to improve your core strength along with achieving a leaner look, try Pilates. TNS

With so many options available in the fitness space, finding the one right for you can be a task.

However, there are a number of aspects you need to factor in when choosing a workout.

One of the primary questions you need to ask yourself before embarking on a fitness routine is whether it addresses the specific problem areas in your body.

Another important factor to take into account is your health.

Many exercise forms can complicate any existing health concerns you may have.

Hence, it is imperative to consult a physician to know about the risks.

Your stamina and fitness levels can also determine which exercise will work best for you.

To simplify things for you, Amaresh Ojha, CEO and founder of Gympik, shares his top tips.

1. Assess your fitness level

To assess your fitness progress, calculating the number of beats of your resting heart rate (RHR) is a beneficial way.

The RHR should reduce as your fitness improves.

To calculate your RHR, place two fingers on your wrist (radial artery), and then count the number of heart beats you feel in a period of 60 seconds. Make sure to count the first beat as a zero.

More than 101 is unusually high and not good. Between 81 and 100 is high, but acceptable, between 61 and 80 is average and 60 or less is good.

2. Choose what form of exercise works best for you

While any type of physical activity is beneficial for you, different physical activities present different results.

Yoga

Yoga is a discipline that focuses on breathing methods, meditation, and physical postures.

It has a low-impact structure and hence is gentler on the joints. It also helps in improving muscle endurance, flexibility and body balance.

Zumba

Zumba is an amalgamation of both fast and slow dancing, so it works on your whole body, helping you to lose weight and tone every muscle group, predominantly your back and abdominals.

It also improves your posture, balance and flexibility.

So, if you wish to develop a flamboyant body shape along while enhancing your dance moves, Zumba will be the right choice for you.

Certain breathing exercises in yoga can be harmful for asthmatic patients. TNS

Pilates

Pilates is largely focused with core strength. It improves muscle tone and strength along with obtaining a leaner look.

This exercise form promotes balanced muscle development, flexibility and helps you in gaining a beautiful posture.

Hence, the gateway to a graceful personality is through regular Pilates workout.

One disadvantage of this type of exercise form is that it misses out on cardio, so it's not very effective for steady weight loss.

Walking

Walking is one of the best exercises that must be an integral part of your fitness schedule.

Regular brisk walk can help in preventing heart diseases and managing high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes along with improving mood.

No matter how many hours you spend in the gym, walking is the best way to lose weight and stay healthy.

This is one exercise that can be practised by all.

Cycling

Cycling is an activity that is gentle on the joints. It burns fat and improves your cardiovascular health.

If you wish to increase your stamina and at the same time tone your muscles, cycling is the best to do so.

3. Exercise safe and focus on the health concerns

Pre-exercise screening will help you to identify any medical conditions that may put you at a higher risk of enduring a health issue during physical activity.

Consult with your doctor before incorporating a fitness routine in your lifestyle.

Certain exercises like running on the treadmill, sprinting, heavy weightlifting etc. can prove injurious for heart patients.

Similarly, certain breathing exercises in yoga can prove harmful for asthmatic patients.

While there are several options available, the most important thing to keep in mind is to choose an exercise that you find fun and can stick to for the long haul.