YOU CAN IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH;
EVEN IF YOU ARE OVER 40 LBS OVERWEIGHT
By Lynn Veach
(c) Lynn Veach
http://www.secretstoabetteryou.com
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Do you struggle with your weight? I believe many of us do at
one time or another. I know that for me, the older I get the
more difficult it is to take off any excess pounds that
accumulate over the winter.
If you are dieting you probably know that a program of
physical activity helps to accelerate the weight loss
process.
The thought of exercise for many of us is not always
appealing for various reasons. For some it may be that it
is boring, for others it just may be difficult, because of
how much weight has accumulated.
The fact is though, that we all need to get some physical
activity, even if it is just for our general health and
well being.
Do you feel that you can barely do any activity at all? Do
you feel that you cannot exercise, play sports, or become
more fit?
If you are overweight by a significant amount, you face
special challenges in trying to be active. You may not be
able to move as well and in the same way as other people
can.
You may find it difficult to find clothing and equipment
for exercising. You may even feel self-conscious being
physically active around other people.
Let's look at why you should try to be as active as
possible.
First, being physically active may help you live longer and
protect you from the diseases of diabetes, heart disease,
stroke, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis.
If you already have any of these problems, becoming
physically active may help you control or improve your
symptoms.
Regular physical activity helps you feel better because it
lowers your stress and boosts your mood. It also increases
your strength and helps control your blood sugar and blood
pressure.
In addition, physical activity helps build healthy bones,
muscles, joints, and helps your heart and lungs work better.
Finally, it also improves your self-esteem.
HOW do I get Started?
First and foremost, appreciate yourself!
If you cannot do an activity, don't be hard on yourself.
Instead, feel good about what you CAN do.
Be proud of pushing yourself up out of a chair or walking
a short distance. Pat yourself on the back for TRYING even
if you can't do it the first time. It may be easier the next
time!
If you have not been too physically active, you need to
start slowly.
Always warm up before any physical activity. In fact a
short walk can be good to get the blood flowing. You can
also tap your toes, swing your arms, or march in place.
After you have completed your physical activity, be sure
to cool down. In other words, if you are exercising...don't
just stop. Slow down gradually before you stop.
You should set some short term goals. If you can only do
some low activity for 5 minutes, try to set a goal of
perhaps 10 minutes. Then slowly work up to that point, then
set another achievable goal.
Track your progress and keep it fun! Maybe you like to
dance, well put some of your favorite music on and sway
your hips and tap your toes if that is all you are capable
of doing at this point. Again, the amount and type of
physical activity will be determined by how much activity
you are currently accustomed to, and your general well
being.
Before you start being physically active you should
consult a health care professional, especially if you have
a chronic health problem such as diabetes, heart disease,
asthma, arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a
personal or family history of heart disease, or if you are
a woman over age 50 or a man over age 40.
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Need more diet and health information? Look for my
new book in the summer of 2006, available at:
Click Here> http://www.secretstoabetteryou.com
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