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What are good exercises you can do at home, and what's the best way to stick to an exercise schedule?

By July 1, 2010 - 1:09pm
 
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Well ... I need to lose weight. And not to sound rude, but before anyone tells me off and tells me it's all about 'Inner Beauty', it is official - ask the doctor.
Now, I wouln't consider myself obese or 'fat'. I have the infamous love handals and a muffin top, along with thunder thighs and chicken wings.
So, oh wise women, please, give me your advice!
I have 10 weeks off of school as I've finished my exams and I have a goal of slimming down and toning up by the time I return back to school. I need exercises I can do at home and a way off sticking to my exercise plan.

Although, I confess. There are two other reasons for my weight loss goals. One being that I want to feel like a normal teenager and feel pretty instead of frumpy. I am sick of being the fat friend, and I refuse to spend the next two years before university being that person! I want to have fun and enjoy thesse next years of my life because so many people say they're the best.
Also, the second reason is unfortunatly one I know some people won't agree with. There is a boy I love, but unfortunatly he's a little vain and see's me as the funny girl he sits next to in English and Biology rather than the girl whose loved him for so long. I've known him six years and have loved him nearly as long. I know some people won't believe me but It's true I really do love him. Sure, I can hear some of you thinking, but he might not love you. The thing is I think he does too - even if he hasn't realised it yet - but even if he doesn't, I don't think my heart will hurt as much because I know I tried and he saw the real me. The me he can't see while I have thighs the size of wooden logs!

Okay, now enough with my soppy-ness. I would appreciate any help you're willing to give me but truely, I really need some help and you've always helped me in the past. Please.

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Expert HERWriter Guide Blogger

Star94 - So glad the info was helpful! If you want to use this site to help you remain accountable by doing something like posting a weekly update on your progress we would love to see it and share your journey. I've always found it easier to take on challenges when I don't feel alone, even if I really am alone in doing them.

When you feel a need for some new ideas we have a Fitness section on the site. It's located under the Wellness section and has a lot of good articles. Lots of other women want to lose their "muffin tops" too. :-)

July 2, 2010 - 4:14pm

Pat and Alison thank you so much for your advice!
As soon as i've finished writing this I'm going to click on those links and then google the closest pool to me (Because I like to swim!)
The advice you've given me sounds so simple and obvious when pointed out, and this is why I posted my question because sometimes you can't see the wood for the trees! :)

Thank you once again!
Xxxxx

July 2, 2010 - 2:16am

What do you like to do? There are so many type of exercises and physical activity that you can do at home, or in your neighborhood. Here are just few suggestions:
1. walk/jog/run around your neighborhood, local park or school track
2. rent an exercise DVD (or, you may have an exercise channel on your TV)
3. turn on some fun dance music and...dance!
4. swim at neighborhood pool
5. go for a long bike ride

Be sure to include both cardiovascular exercise as well as strength training! Also, enlist the companionship of a few friends or neighbors; it helps to have a workout buddy!

You are more likely to stick to an exercise routine if it is something you enjoy: yoga, dance, body combat/kickboxing, swimming, bike riding, walking, running, aerobics, etc.

Lastly, be realistic! If you exercise 60 minutes every day, and eat healthy, satisfying meals every day, you can expect to lose 1-2 pounds weekly. What you may notice instead of pounds coming off is that you are more toned, stronger and overall healthier. In 10 weeks, you may not notice much difference in weight loss, but it will set the stage for you to continue working out and getting stronger, while eating healthy too!

Let us know what you choose to do!

July 1, 2010 - 7:31pm
Expert HERWriter Guide Blogger

Star-94 - It might sound strange at first, but one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to start an exercise program is to...hula hoop. Remember them? Many have found them very effective. You can read more here: https://www.empowher.com/community/share/hula-hoops-exercise

WebMD has some good information on how you can incorporate exercise into your life as a daily habit. You can find that here: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/exercise-habits

Good luck, and keep us posted on your progress!

July 1, 2010 - 6:28pm
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