subject: Lose Weight With Low Impact Exercise [print this page] Healthy eating habits and physical activity are key to losing weight and staying healthy. Unfortunately, the image of regular exercise often leads us to believe we're headed for boot camp rather than the gym. If you are unable to do rigorous exercise due to injury or other circumstances, you should not give up. Alternatives do exist.
On television we are bombarded by people who are extremely overweight. They go through intense exercise routines to get in shape. Yes, this approach can work, but it requires a commitment of time, emotions, and spirit that most of us cannot maintain on our own. Another thing to remember about these television shows is that they are written entirely for their entertainment value. This means that they are written and produced to push the contestants to the edge.
Slowly getting into low impact exercise without the stress and strain of intense exercise not only helps you lose weight gradually, it is better for you. You'll keep the weight off easier as your body adjusts to the exercise, and you can increase the intensity when you feel ready for it.
Take a Walk
A great way to get into shape is to go for a walk - regularly. You need a good pair of sneakers that fit you well, but no other specialized equipment. Walking gives you a good all-round work out, as it uses almost every muscle in your body.
There is nothing nicer than walk in good weather. Whether you wander round the neighborhood or head to the local park or beach, take advantage of the sunshine. Try to get a friend or neighbor to walk with you. Company makes the walk go much quicker, and you won't realize the distance you're covering the same way you would on your own. If the weather is inclement, head to the mall - not to shop - but to walk. Any large space will do, and if you can add in a few stairs, all the better.
Start Yoga
Another good, low impact activity is yoga. Yoga is more than just simple bending and stretching, although that alone can benefit you enormously. As you delve more deeply into the practice you will discover that it is actually a very intense workout. There are many yoga DVD's available to purchase or rent, so you can work in the privacy of your own home.
Be Mindful of Your Food Intake
Just because you get on an exercise routine, doesn't mean that you can now eat whatever you want whenever the mood strikes. You should pay attention to your portions and cut down on the items that we all know by now are bad such as sweet and greasy foods. This doesn't mean that you can't have a cookie if you really want one, but learn to eat only one. Don't eat the whole bag.
