Archive for March 6th, 2010
Have we stuck to our New Year’s Resolutions of weight loss? Did you sign up at a gym resolving to exercise to lose weight? March is under way, and spring fever is coming. As soon as we get some spring like days, you will flock out doors and shed some clothes. Realizing, that uh-oh, you’ve gained a few pounds. Naturally, you’ll want to starve yourself and maybe exercise one day really really hard and be sore for the next week. Sound familiar? This seems to be the MO (method of operandus) for many folks in the spring.
First thing, NEVER, EVER starve yourself! In reality you are sabotaging your weight loss efforts. What you should be doing is snacking or eating several small meals throughout the day. Let’s say, eating something nutritious every 2-3 hours. By eating often you keep your metabolism optimized. It’s when you don’t eat, the body thinks there is famine and slows down its metabolism to help prevent starvation.
The second thing, please, please, please, don’t try to do a year’s worth of workouts in 1 day! Not only will you be extremely sore, but you won’t feel like exercising again and defeating the ultimate weight loss goal.
My suggestion, do 15-20 minutes of cardiovascular exercise the first week or 2, about 2 0r 3 times a week. Some good cardiovascular exercises, are just walking on the treadmill, or
working on the eliptical or arc trainer. Gradually, add in weight training, with 1 set per exercise, and do 12 repetitions. When you’re beginning to feel stronger, you can increase the length of time for your cardio exercises. This “prescription” for exercise to lose weight is a healthy and safe way to help achieve your goals.
Tomorrow, we will discuss some excellent classes to take, if you get bored on the cardiovascular apparatus, or want to add some spice to the cardio routine.