How to start an exercise program as an
overweight adult
Perhaps you are one of
the millions of adults who have let weight gain and
inactivity creep up on you over the years. Perhaps you are
contemplating starting an exercise program but have no idea
where to start. Here are some tips to get you started.
Remember
you are not who you used to be. So
many of us remember our days of high school or college and
we measure our “today” self against our former self. You are
not the same person. You have gained weight and your body
has changed. You must realize your limitations from the
beginning and work with them instead of against them. Begin
by assessing your physical limits and then work slowly to
expand them.
Be realistic with
yourself and start slowly – you are more likely to avoid
injury and stay motivated. Too many people try to get in
shape in one day. They become very sore, tired and
de-motivated.
Doing a little
exercise on a consistent basis is better than doing a lot of
exercise sporadically. When
planning your new weight loss exercise program be sure and
make it realistic to your lifestyle. It may not be feasible
for you to spend three hours per week in the gym. Be honest
with yourself and know your limitations regarding time and
willingness. On the other hand, don’t let analysis
paralysis set in when planning your new exercise program.
Don’t expect to find the perfect workout routine before
starting - Just get moving.
Here is a tip if you
suffer from “analysis paralysis” and want to find the
perfect workout routine: Start walking every day. Find a way
to walk for exercise each and every day. Once you have
started walking every day then start looking
for the perfect workout routine. Continue to walk no matter
what. Even after you have found your perfect workout routine
– continue to walk for exercise. It will become a habit just
like brushing your teeth and will stick with you even when
you fall out of habit of going to the gym or aerobics class.
Check with your
doctor or employer’s wellness program.
Please don’t skip this section. Too many people have the
idea that your doctor or wellness programs are just going to
tell you that you are ok to workout. While you do need your
doctor’s approval to start a workout routine – there is just
so much more available you don’t want to miss out. You may
find that you have access to dieticians, nurses, personal
trainers and more. Insurance companies are very motivated to
keep insurance costs down. This can mean great values on
services that were once only reserved for the well to do.
One company comes to mind that will have a trainer set you
up on a workout routine, schedule regular meetings with a
dietician, and have your biometrics measured on a regular
basis! All for free! Some companies even have their own
fitness facilities. Please check them out.
Plan your workout
routine with balance in mind. Have
you seen the muscle bound man who can’t touch his toes? Have
you seen the marathon runner who can’t lift a bag of
groceries? They don’t have balance. A balanced routine will
include strength training, cardiovascular training, and
flexibility training. Keep balance in mind while planning
your exercise routine and you will be less likely to
experience pain or injury during your workouts. You will
also be more likely to keep exercising as you age thus
experiencing a better quality of life with less fat.
A well planned workout
routine can help you lose weight, gain more energy, and live
a better quality of life. Plan your exercise program with
longevity and balance in mind. No matter what your exercise
program entails, (whether it is weightlifting, yoga,
aerobics, biking, or some other form of exercise) continue
to walk for exercise each and every day. Daily walking will
build a healthy foundation that will follow you during times
when you are disciplined with your workout routine and when
you are not.
Wishing you the best of
health,
Bill
© Weightloss-articles.com
