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Everyone knows that in order to lose weight, we need to eat sensibly and exercise regularly. It's so easy to say, but why does it seem so hard to do? I put it to you that exercising effectively is all about attitude. If you could just understand how simple it is to incorporate exercise into your daily routine, you could make a decision now to just do it. That decision would lead to weight loss, and weight loss would change your life. I know the latest exercise equipment as featured on television ads can be very enticing, but don't feel like you have to buy any large, expensive item in order to start your new exercise regime. Perhaps you have one such machine in a wardrobe somewhere; if so, drag it out and crank it up. Try to place it somewhere obvious and leave it set up, then you'll be more inclined to use it every day. If not, all you really need to put your hands on is a large exercise ball, which will suffice. There are very few muscles you will miss working using the ball, and it's relatively inexpensive. Exercising does not have to dominate your day; it doesn't take as long as you think! These days there are 20 minute routines on DVD in abundance, and if you aim for at least 3 of these sessions a week, exercising will not take up too much of your time. First thing in the morning is the best time to exercise, and always aim to start at the same time so that your exercising becomes a habit which is hard to break. There are fewer distractions first thing, and you will head into your day with a quiet sense of satisfaction, knowing that you are on the road to a slimmer, physique. But for those who certainly aren't morning people, first thing in the morning is never going to work. I know someone who reckons she sleeps like a baby due to her 30 minute aerobic workout before bed every night. So, it's up to you really: you need to decide on the time that's right for you and get started immediately! Make it enjoyable. If something has to be endured rather than enjoyed it probably wont last. Sit down with pen and paper and jot down ten things you love doing. Then examine your list and see how you could incorporate exercise naturally into these activities. If one of the items on your list is - playing squash with a friend - then you're laughing! But chances are that your items are more along the lines of - dining out with my partner - and this will take some creative thought. For instance, where could you go to eat which is atmospheric, delicious, provides you with some healthy dietary options and also is near to a lovely beach or nature walk? Consider cycling to your cafe destination, and take the whole family! What great memories you'll make, plus you'll be modelling healthy living to your kids. In the summertime, my wife and I make a habit of taking the kids for a sunset walk on the beach, after dinner. No one's allowed to watch television until we return. What wonderful conversations and laughs we have enjoyed in these times of fresh air and no distractions. Incorporate exercise into your every day routine. Put away the television remote control and everyone will be forced to get up to turn channels. Park in the parking spot the furthest from the shop door and everyone will be forced to walk briskly across the car park. Carrying shopping bags back to the car will be like lifting weights at the gym! Choose to take the stairs EVERY time rather than the lift. Get off the bus one stop before your usual stop and walk the extra distance. Take time out during your busy working day (especially if you sit at a computer most of the day) and take a brisk walk around the block. You'll be absolutely amazed at the difference it will make to your powers of concentration and well being. You can use competition to advantage, even if you're only competing with yourself. The key here is a little bit of organisation. Display a time chart somewhere you look often, such as your fridge door, and record every day the time it takes you to complete your walk. You'll be amazed to notice how much quicker you become with practice. This in turn will motivate you to continue. Make sure there's a column also to record your pulse when you walk in the door at the conclusion of your walk as this will show you your improved fitness levels, which will also delight and motivate you. In no time at all you'll be looking to increase the distance you walk within the same time period as you started. Exercise somewhere inspiring. The great thing about brisk walking is that you can choose your destination. Get in your car and go to a place you love. If you're very lucky you will live near a lake, beach, river, forest or scenic area. Perhaps your favourite place is a shopping centre. I know a lady who combines retail therapy with her need for company and exercise and so walks the length of her local shopping centre five times every morning! It's whatever works for you! The enthusiastic sometimes overdo their initial attempts at exercising and the next day feel so sore (or exhausted) that they lose all motivation. Be careful of this. Start small and ease yourself into more challenging activities. For example, don't go jogging if you haven't trained as a walker. Much of the time I see elderly joggers who are driving themself to a dangerous level when they'd gain much more benefit from walking briskly or swimming. It's dangerous to be overly zealous at times. Stay sensible and respect your body. Work up to the next level very gradually and if at all possible, try to have an exercise buddy who can keep an eye on your wellbeing. Swimming is a fabulous activity suitable for all ages. It is low impact and works all parts of your body. It is enjoyable and if you live near a heated swimming pool, it is suitable for all times of the year. You can go at your own pace and because it is an individual pursuit you will not feel as though as you are letting anyone else down if you are slow or awkward. Some people just thrive on competition and if that's you, ensure you are in some kind of team sport competition. Recognise that motivational quality in yourself and feed it by joining your local footy or netball competition. Team sports are useful for helping us feel obliged to turn up regularly; the rest of the team make us accountable, which helps keep us on the straight and narrow! If you want to see quick results in your physique, I would definitely have a whey protein based shake on hand and take this between 20 and 30 minutes after your exercise session. You'd be amazed at the difference this will make. During exercise you muscles basically tear and protein helps them to start rebuilding immediately. This leads to greater muscle tone and fat burning. Whey protein and L Carnitine is a winning combination if you really need to lose some weight. Why do all the hard work and not give yourself every advantage? Now is the day to make a resolve. Resolve to make some changes in your lifestyle which will result in regular, enjoyable exercise. If it's enjoyable you'll adopt it as a natural part of your lifestyle. If it's regular it will become a healthy habit. I dare you to start brainstorming ways you can get more active within the confines and time limits of your present lifestyle. Weight loss and improved well being will necessarily follow.
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