Obesity is now called epidemic in the health community. In fact, it will soon be the leading cause of preventable death prior to smoking in the United States. Obesity leads to type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, and an increased risk of cancer. With all of these health risks and the improvement in overall quality of life that can occur, losing weight is one of the best things you can do on your own.
No matter what we choose to believe, there is no magical solution to losing weight. The body sheds excess fat when it needs more calories to meet the demands you place on it on a particular day than the amount of calories you are consuming. It's so easy that you need to eat fewer calories and burn more to lose weight.
If you are looking for a weight loss program, there are various options available. They all often spend a lot of time explaining what to eat, how much, when, and in what combination. However, few people emphasize the importance of exercise, not only for weight loss, but also for overall health and well-being. Exercise is essential when trying to lose weight for several reasons.
First, when you start eating less, your metabolism slows down a bit. Exercise helps bring metabolism back to efficient levels. Second, as mentioned above, exercise can burn more calories, lose weight faster, and stay motivated. Third, exercise actually releases endorphins, mood-boosting chemicals.
Exercise doesn't have to mean spending hours in the gym or struggling with intense training. Exercise must be something you enjoy in order for you to stick to it in the long run. Start raising the overall activity level. If possible, go up the stairs. When shopping, park away from the mall door. Take a walk in your favorite park or neighborhood and bring your dog or friends. Take dance and martial arts classes.
In general, the more active you are, the easier and more natural it is to exercise regularly. After all, what you have to do to get regular and significant health benefits. You need to raise your heart rate to fat burning levels and keep them at that level at least three times a week for at least 20 minutes. However, if you don't want to go to the gym, there are other options. Videos and DVDs are now available for all kinds of exercises. That way, you can change your routine at any time and never get tired of what you're doing. Try a variety of aerobics, kickboxing, yoga, or whatever activity you like while relaxing at home.
You can find ways to increase your activity level, even if you have physical restrictions that interfere with your exercise.
Aqua aerobics is a great option for people with joint problems or limited mobility because it reduces the pressure on the body that puts weight on it. But you still have resistance to challenge your muscles from the water. There are also classes and videos to help you train while sitting.
No matter what kind of exercise you choose, it's important to stay motivated and enjoy yourself. Try to put together a group to make it a social event. Or get a pedometer. A pedometer is a device that keeps track of how far you walk and how many miles you can walk in a week. Compete with friends and family and treat the winner with something special (not food!). Experience the exercise you are looking forward to, and it will soon become a regular part of your healthier lifestyle.
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