Basic Education of The Body

All education of the body should begin at birth and continue throughout life. It is never too soon to begin nor too late to continue.

Physical education has three principal aspects: (1) control and discipline of the functioning of the body, (2) an integral, methodical and harmonious development of the parts and movements of the body and (3) correction of any defects and deformities.

It has been universally accepted by health counsellors and health seekers that physical exercise, like hygiene, food, sleep, etc., is one of the most essential, things in a man’s daily life. Children, boys and girls, men and women, in fact everybody, should do some kind of physical exercise if they want to lead a life of health and happiness.

It is understood that the exercise programme will vary from person to person. A man doing hard physical labour requires some quiet and relaxing exercises like stretching, asanas or deep breathing. Teachers, students, office workers and those who lead a sedentary life, must do exercises that make them pant perspire. Growing children must be given an exercise. Programme that will help them grow in a harmonious manner.

There are various forms of physical exercises. If they are practised regularly, in a progressive manner, with proper food, sleep and rest, personal and environmental hygiene, a satisfying work or occupation, and a tranquil mind, one will grow in health and vitality.

I present here five different exercise programmes to suit a wide variety of bodies and temperaments. Each of them has been designed to give a thorough workout to the entire body while using a minimum of time, space and equipment. While Surya Namaskar, the Basic Asanas and the Fitness Test exercises may be practised by both men and women, I have also given a set of Daily Dozen exercises for men and programme of Health Exercises for women tailored to meet their specific needs. The inclusion of one or more of these programmes in systematic and regular schedule along with some form of outdoor aerobic activity (such as walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, etc.) Should help you lead a life full of health, vitality and a wholesome ‘joie-de-vivre’.

As always, consult your doctor before embarking on any new exercise programme. Read the instructions given for each of these programmes carefully before staring any of them. As a general rule, begin with the amount or number which you mind comfortable and increase gradually as you grow stronger.

Remember, the most important requirements for achieving your fitness goals and leading a healthy life is displace and regularity. Plan for yourself a weekly schedule try and stick to it as closely as you can. While some of the effects and benefits may appear almost immediately, others take time. So persevere and the results will surely follow. As for most thing in life, you get form exercise what you put into it.