The obesity in America is greater than in other countries such as Europe. American cities, in general, are less walking-friendly than European cities. Distances, lack of sidewalks, and traffic make it more difficult to find good walking areas. Don’t be discouraged from your walking program. Look for tracks at schools, paths in parks, neighborhoods with flat streets and sidewalks, shopping malls, golf courses, or any open area. In the mall, walking for exercise is more fun and more predictable than inclement weather.
Look for ways to get in some extra steps as a challenge or a game for yourself. A pedometer is a great “toy” in competing with yourself day to day to increase your steps. The recommended daily activity is 10,000 steps for maximum health and weight loss/maintenance. I wear a pedometer regularly. My kids like to check it periodically to see how I’m doing. It is a fun yet very effective tool to keep motivated. Try it!
With cooler weather here and daylight savings time this weekend, taking walks outside is going to be more challenging. Don’t let it beat you into a sedentary season. There are options for exercise that you can turn to despite the season and weather.
Obviously, one is to go to a gym or your local “Y” for a class, water aerobics in a warm heated pool, or brisk walk around their indoor track. You can also purchase many fun dvd’s that are interesting to you. Tae Bo, Zumba, Walking/Running in place are among many favorites. A dvd is available anytime you are. Purchase inexpensive handweights or invest in a treadmill for the whole family to use. Exercise and activity are not limited to a couple of seasons or certain weather conditions.
Exercise, activity, movement are all mindsets. I watch people use the escalator while I’m walking up the stairs. I get there faster and am more exhilarated by standing there waiting……. It is fun to be already shopping while people are just getting off the escalator!
Weight loss and maintenance are more than about what you eat….they are about what you do (and don’t do) and your mindset. Look for ways to walk and obtain activity. Movement counts in weight loss.
When you exercise, there are no bad days!!
Believe In Yourself,
Cathy, CLC
Certified Life Coach, Weight Loss Surgery Coach
Certified Back On Track Facilitator
