Obesity is now considered a major epidemic in the health community. In fact, it will soon be the leading cause of preventative death in the United States, even before cigarette smoking. Obesity also increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack or stroke and cancer. Weight loss will be followed by fatigue and constant tiredness. Weight loss will be followed by fatigue and constant tiredness.
What we want to believe is that weight loss is not just a magical solution. The body will shed excess fat when it needs more calories to work through the demands you put into it in a day than the amount of calories you feed it. It's very simple. So, to lose weight, you need to reduce the number of calories you eat as well as increase the amount you burn.
There are a wide range of options to choose from when looking for a weight loss program. They often spend a lot of time explaining what to eat, how much, and at what time or in what combination. But few of them emphasize the importance of exercise - not just for weight loss, but for your general health and well-being. Exercise is important when trying to lose weight for several reasons:
First, if you start eating less, your metabolism will slow down somewhat. Exercise helps to restore your metabolism to an effective level. Second, as mentioned, exercise burns extra calories so you can lose weight faster and stay motivated in your endeavors. Third, exercise actually releases endorphins, the chemicals that keep your mood high.
Exercise does not mean spending hours in the gym or taking stress through a tiring workout. In fact, in order for you to stay with it longer, exercise must be something you enjoy. Start by increasing your activity level overall. Take the stairs when you can. Park in front of the mall door when you go shopping. Take a walk in the park or your favorite neighborhood and bring a dog or a friend with you. Take dance or martial arts lessons.
Once you become more active in general, you will find it easier and more natural to go for regular exercise. All you need to do is get regular, focused health benefits. You should increase your heart rate to fat burning level and keep it there for at least 20 minutes, 3 times a week or more. However, if you do not want to go to the gym, there are other options. Videos and DVDs are now available in all types of exercise. This way you can change your routine whenever you want so you don't get bored of what you are doing. Try a range of aerobics, kickboxing, yoga, or any activity you want in the comfort of your own home.
If you have physical limitations that keep you from exercising, you can still find ways to increase your activity level. Water aerobics is a great option for those who have joint problems or limited mobility because it reduces the pressure on your body provided by your weight. But you still find resistance to water challenging your muscles. There are also classes and videos available that allow you to exercise in a seat.
Whatever type of exercise you choose, it is important to stay motivated and enjoy it. Try grouping it together to make it a social event. Or take a pedometer, a device that tracks how far you walk, and how many miles you can walk in a week. Compete between your friends and family and treat the winner with something special (not related to food!). Experience some exercise that you are eager for, and it will soon become a regular part of your healthy lifestyle.
You must be logged in to post a comment.