Reducing Obesity Through Easy and Safe Exercise

The first step to getting on any exercise program is to dispel the belief that it must be intense to have any real benefit. A gym membership is not necessary and few people have the desire to appear in a gym room with their blubber on public display.

Exercise is a foreign concept for many people. They may want to get into shape but they don't know where to start. The fear of failure keeps many from trying. But once you lower your expectations, you can make a start and succeed more often than fail.

Get a Doctor's Opinion:

Before any exercise can begin, you need to know the state of your current health. Any exercise has the potential to be harmful so it's best to get your doctor's opinion so you can lay the foundation to get started. Your age, your weight and whether you have blood pressure or suffer from diabetes are factors that need to be considered before you lift your first dumbbell. A dietitian can help you with the right foods to give you the energy for your workouts, while a fitness instructor can help get you started on your first routines.

Walking is the Best Exercise:

If you can't afford an instructor, start off with walking. It's the easiest exercise and doesn't require any equipment other than a good pair of running shoes. Walking is flexible. You can start off slow and build up as you gain more strength and stamina.

Exercise in the Pool:

It's a great form of exercise for those who are obese or suffer from mobility problems. Arthritics and the elderly get the most benefit from pool exercise. The buoyancy of the water eases the stress placed on ankles and knees. Exercising with a group is more fun and helps provide you with the incentive to stick to your routine as you receive encouragement.

Sit Down Exercises:

These exercises can easily be incorporated both at home and at work. Arm and leg lifts are great ways to build strength and can be done anywhere. Exercise while watching television,or work out in your office cubicle. Light back and knee bends will strengthen those muscles that often don't get much use. You can purchase a portable peddlar and strengthen your legs while typing out a memo.

Use Light Weights for Strength Training:

Lifting weights is a good way to strengthen unused muscles by increasing resistance. But start off first by warming up by lifting your arms before you use your first set of 3 pound weights. Weights can be brought to work.

Getting fit takes time, but there's no reason why you can't make a start. Forget about stationary bikes and treadmills. As you get fitter, you can incorporate fitness equipment into your exercise routine. The most important thing is to stick to your routine. It's easy to forget about exercising, so you'll need to employ some discipline. But once you start seeing results, you'll be more motivated to exercise more until you won't be ashamed to show your new body inside a gym.


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