The Power of Exercise
Photo Source: "© Val Thoermer | Dreamstime.comExercise is always part of a successful weight loss regime. It's a word that shows up on everyone's New Years resolution after the age of 25. And as you get older, it tends to be the one resolution that getsforgotten. Staying fit during any weight loss program is important for several reasons. It burns calories. It increases metabolism. It forces you to stay hydrated. Exercise is an easy thing to turn into a habit. Start off with something easy, then add to your routine as time goes on. 

It can be as simple as a thirty minute workout on a tread mill. It can be as complicated as setting a time to go toa fitness center two to three times a week. Not everyone can fit Exercise into their daily routine, but there are some simple ways you can exercise without making it a "chore":

  • Park a little further way than you usually do at the grocery store, and walk to the entrance.
  • If you can walk it, don't drive it.
  • Invest in 3 pound weights, and carry them throughout your house when you are home swinging your arms up and down with even strokes.
  • Power walk your neighborhood.
  • Do a set of situps every morning and evening. Start with 15 each session, and build up to 25, then 50. You will be amazed at how your tummy starts to respond.
  • Lunge your way to the bathroom when you wake up and before you go to bed. You will be surprised at what it does for your gluteus maximus.
  • When you can, walk a tread mill for 30 minutes. Work your way up to a harder regime after each week. Your local YMCA is a great place to work out. (Check the schedule for the Kid's area and they will have fun, too!)
  • Find a friend at work willing to walk to lunch. Or, even walk the neighborhood with you.

Always try to stretch before and after your routine to prevent the soreness of muscles, one of the primary reasons we tend to let Exercise fall off our New Year's resolution list. It doesn't take much to turn Exercise into a daily routine. But, if you find yourself not able to keep it up, then at least put a reminder in your calendar to take an hour out of your weekend for some form of Exercise. It is as essential to your body as water or food. Just remember to stay hydrated and eat healthy choices.

Great sources for easy Exercise routines:

  • www.self.com
  • www.prevention.com
  • www.cooperaerobics.com

Great places for fitness workouts:

  • www.lifetimefitness.com
  • www.lafitness.com
  • www.ymca.net