Missouri gets its name from an Algonquian Indian word that means "river of the big canoes." While the name was almost certainly referring to the Mississippi River, it may as well have been referring to the many streams and rivers that populate Missouri. The state is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with many activities to do, on the water and off. Get in the habit of taking advantage of Missouri's outdoor activities, and you'll find that excess weight will begin to disappear.
Step 1
Rent a canoe or an inflatable raft and get a workout paddling down one of Missouri's many streams and rivers. Outfitters are available at 29 streams and rivers located in Missouri. Burn almost 500 calories an hour moderately paddling a canoe down one of the lovely waterways.
Step 2
Gallop your way to a thin body. Go horseback riding on a trail or spend some time at one of Missouri's many ranches. You'll burn close to 300 calories an hour trotting along, and it will feel as though the horse is doing most of the work.
Step 3
Learn how to rock climb, as just one hour of rock climbing burns 750 calories. Find climb-worthy rocks at Elephant Rocks State Park, Land of the Ozarks State Park and St. Francois State Park.
Step 4
Take a hike in one of Missouri's many state parks or enjoy a walk through a historical site such as the Iliniwek Village State Historic Site that features an excavated Illinois Indian longhouse. Burn approximately 400 calories for each hour you spend hiking.
Step 5
Balance all of the physical activities you can do in Missouri with a healthy, low-calorie diet. Aim to eat between 1,200 and 1,500 calories a day -- any more and you may not lose weight. Eat fewer, and you'll risk malnutrition and may slow your metabolism.
Tips and Warnings
- Focus on doing the activities that you enjoy most, as you'll likely do them longer and thus lose more weight.
- Don't overdo it. With all of the activities available in Missouri, it is easy to become a "weekend warrior." Set a goal to do physical activity every day. Practice good safety habits when on the river, on horseback and on a rock face.
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