The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that obesity rates have increased from 15 to 33 percent since the 1970s, This trend could be reversed, the CDC notes, if people would take a more active approach to their daily routines. Walking, for instance, used to be the main source of transportation; walking to work, the store and other destinations can provide a good form of exercise -- and help you lose weight.
Eating Habits
Twenty lbs. is a large amount of weight to shed by walking alone, so you have to change your eating habits if you are going to change your body. Forget foods that are high in sugars and fat; instead, reach for raw fruits and vegetables, foods high in fiber and protein, and drink water, not cola. Cutting down the amount of calories you put into your body relieves your system of the need to rid itself of those calories, leaving your body free to focus on building muscle and burning fat.
Mix it Up
To lose 20 lbs., mix up your walking routine. Walking for 60 minutes straight every day will help you lose weight and stay fit, but after a while, your body will get used to this regimen and will stop shedding pounds as quickly. Instead, walk two to three times a day for 20 to 30 minutes for each session. While walking, switch your pace from normal to faster speed every five minutes. This works because you are not giving your body the opportunity to slow down its fat-burning metabolism; therefore, you will shed more weight.
Walking Shoes
While you may not see them on the runway during fashion week, certain shoes have been designed to help you lose weight and build muscle while you walk in them. The technology embedded in such shoes stimulates the muscles in your calves, thighs and buttocks, giving you better results than walking with regular shoes.
Rest the Weight Off
Just as much as your body needs nutritious foods and a healthy exercise regimen, it also needs the proper amount of rest each night. According to a report published in October 2010 by "U.S. News," dieters who are sleep deprived have higher levels of the hormone ghrelin than those who get the proper amount of sleep per night. This particular hormone triggers hunger in your body, and promotes fat retention. If you are serious about losing 20 lbs., allow your body to receive at least eight hours of sleep per night.
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