Baltimore, Md., is a potential paradise for people who want to lose weight. Not only does it offer the usual selection of gyms and access to personal trainers, but it also has several large parks and recreational areas that are well-suited for long workouts or simply a meandering walk. Add the boiled shrimp and fresh vegetables you'll find in the city, and you have all the makings of a healthy -- and thin -- lifestyle.
Step 1
Eat slowly to slow down your rate of calorie consumption and lose weight. Go to one of the many shrimp shacks in Baltimore and order boiled peel-and-eat shrimp. You'll get a boost of protein for only 100 calories per 3 oz. of the seasoned shrimp you eat, according to the USDA.
Step 2
Pretend you are a tourist. Go see some of the many historical sites that Baltimore has to offer. Put on a pair of good walking shoes and burn some calories window shopping on Antique Row, exploring the Hampton National Historic Site or enjoying the ambiance of the Colonial-era Fell's Point neighborhood.
Step 3
Investigate Baltimore's parks and sanctuaries. Visit the 155-acre Patterson Park, stroll around the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary or the 207-acre Cylburn Arboretum. Walking at a moderate 3 mph pace will burn approximately 235 calories.
Step 4
Get on your bicycle and burn off some calories biking the 15 miles of trails at Gwynns Falls. Hike parts of the trail as well. You'll find plenty of opportunities for bird watching.
Step 5
Keep track of your overall calorie intake, as an entire day of outdoor activities can be wiped out with a few cookies in the evening. Enjoy some fresh figs, blackberries or greens from the 32nd Street Farmers Market.
Tips and Warnings
- Remember that you'll need to create a deficit of 3,500 calories to lose 1 lb. You can accomplish this through diet, exercise, or -- ideally -- both. Make a habit of walking to do your daily errands. Baltimore is easy to navigate, and it has an efficient public transportation system you can use once you've had enough walking.
- Be cautious when walking or bicycling in Baltimore's recreational areas at night. Take a friend or schedule your workouts during the daytime.
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