Exercise: Your First "Step" to Obesity Prevention
Alarming statistics cite adult obesity in America at 34% according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Statistics also show that 31.6% of women are obese.
There is no question; obesity is an epidemic in the United States. With childhood obesity hovering around the same percentages, it is urgent that we take action so we can live longer, healthier lives as well as be an example to future generations.
Regular physical exercise will not only offset obesity, but other diseases caused from being excessively overweight. Exercise is the first “step” towards bettering your overall health from every point of view.
Obesity is a known risk factor for numerous health problems, including hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, arthritis and some forms of cancer. By exercising and modifying your lifestyle, you are not only warding off the above diseases, you are improving your quality of life. I speak to you not only as a fitness professional, but also from experience. I once weighed 340lbs. and have freed myself from the “snares of obesity.”
No matter what your age, sex, ethnicity or body type your entire well-being will improve if you adopt a regular exercise program. Throughout my weight loss, I not only noticed an increase in energy, but I found it improved my mood and self-esteem.
It is important to consult your physician before beginning any exercise program. A good weight loss program should include constant moderate exercise. It is also important that you consult a nutritionist so you’re making sure you’re consuming “quality” calories to reap the most benefits from your exercise routine.
I suggest starting with the type of exercise that you enjoy the most. A nice way to get started is walking approximately two miles three times a week at a rapid pace. Studies show, you’ll not only burn calories, but also increase your metabolic rate. I found through my weight loss journey, that walking in the beginning not only allowed me to achieve significant results, it also allowed me to establish a pattern of reflective, soul searching.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
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It all really boils down to what motivates you to exercise. My personal motivation is stay alive for my 10 year old son
Rick
September 1, 2009 - 11:05pmSensei J. Richard Kirkham B.Sc.
How to Exercise Throughout Your Day
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That is an excellent motivation!! - Joanne
September 2, 2009 - 3:45pm