Getting started can be the most challenging part of beginning your workout. If you have never really exercised before you are going to want to start off slow and work your way up to intense aerobic exercise and cardio. Other than your goals of getting into better shape, you may also want to lose weight. Weight loss can be achieved even with low to moderate aerobic activity.
Low-impact Aerobics
Low-impact exercise is a way you can increase your heart rate and get all of the benefits of exercise while improving your overall health. Low-impact aerobics can help you increase blood flow to muscles and joints and reduce episodes of pain and discomfort. With regular and routine low-impact aerobic exercise, you will also shed unwanted pounds and keep excess weight off long-term. Some of the most popular forms of low-impact aerobic exercise include bicycling, walking, water aerobics and gardening. Bicycling allows you to move at your own pace while you burn up to 292 calories per hour. You can also choose a DVD aerobic exercise routine to do in the comfort of your home.
Outdoor Activities
There are several outdoor activities that you can do to achieve your weight loss goals. Start off with walking outdoors and then move to a more moderate workout with hiking. Hiking can test your skills and allow you to gradually move into a workout that you can easily engage in. You can begin with walking and hiking in your local parks or state land. When you feel ready you can engage in more intense hiking trips that include steep inclines and varied terrain for a more challenging experience. Hiking can burn up to 438 calories per hour.
Rollerblading is another sport that you can start off at any skill level and work your way up. Find a paved trail or area where you can practice. If you need to start off slow, you will still be working all the muscles in your body. As time goes on you can increase your speed and incline. Moderate to intense rollerblading can burn up to 913 or more calories per hour.
Exercise Equipment
There are several styles and types of exercise equipment available on the market. If you are a beginner you can start off at your own pace and not worry about muscle strain or injury. One of the most convenient forms of equipment is the treadmill. With a treadmill you can work at your own pace by adjusting the speed and incline. This allows you to build up stamina so you can take your workout to a more advanced machine like an elliptical. With an elliptical you are working your mid and lower body and in some cases entire body if you choose to use your arms. The elliptical machine is an effective way to burn calories and fat but may not be beneficial if you are just starting out.
Diet
Aside from exercise you should also incorporate a healthy diet plan into your weight loss routine. This includes eating foods from all of the MyPyramid food groups such as whole wheat, low-fat dairy, beans, vegetables, fruits and non-saturated fats. Try to keep your diet plan at or around 2,000 calories per day. Avoid foods that are processed and high in fat and calories. Substitute sugary snacks with fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts.
Member Comments