Diet, Exercise and Lifestyle – Part 2
In my last post, I talked about diet as one of three main components on a good weight loss plan. Today, let’s tackle the second component – exercise. For everyone who loves to exercise, there are several who absolutely hate it. I guess the picture conjured up is that of dozens of people sweating away on one exercise machine or another or pumping weights. Well, it doesn’t have to be like that unless you’re really into group sweating. Personally, I’m not.
All you really need is 30 minutes a day three times a week. A good walk will do that. Got a dog? Take it for a walk/run after work and before you get too pooped and want to flop down in front of the TV. The dog will appreciate the exercise and so will your body. It is a good cardio-vascular workout. Don’t have a dog? Put a leash on a friend (just joking) or your spouse and just go for a brisk walk.
What you want to do is to get your heart rate down before and after you exercise. Consider buying a heart monitor to wear while you are out and active. Check your heart rate before you start your walk and afterwards. Make a note of the rates. Check them again after a week of walking. Both rates should have come down some and that will be good news.
A bike ride will accomplish the same thing. So will a good swim If you find it more convenient to stay home, consider getting a treadmill or a bicycle machine for your home. But, you have to use it. Like the joke says, “I joined a fitness club six months ago and haven’t lost any weight. I guess they expect me to show up!” I guess so. If you don’t use it, it becomes an ornament and you may as well hang things from it. Seriously. those machines are expensive and they are intended to help you to get healthy and lose weight. Set a schedule and stick to it. That’s the key. Have patience, too. Losing weight is not an overnight deal.
You could always get a dog, you know, but don’t get a lap dog. Get one that loves to run! A Lab… Border Collie…Setter…Dalmatian…
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