If you find yourself complaining about how busy your life is and how hard it is to get out and exercise, you are not alone. Most people are overcommitted to work, social obligations, family and who knows what else. The result is that people who are already in a diet program to lose weight are constantly searching for the
best fat burning exercises to improve their rate of success.
Sorry folks, there really isnt a best solution for this issue. The only way to succeed is to set aside some time for your needs; and that includes exercise.
Make Yourself a Priority
As many people already know, finding the time to exercise can be a struggle. Societal messages are mixed. Taking time for you is selfish, but neglecting yourself is irresponsible.
You have to start with the idea that you are worthwhile, which means time you spend on your health is valuable. Do you have to plan your exercise routine at the same time every day? Not if it interferes with other important commitments. However, you must schedule your exercise times regularly and stick with them if you plan on reaching your weight loss goals.
What Exercise Works for You?
On the most basic level the exercise that works best is the one you are willing to do. If you love playing racquetball, then sign up for a league, or commit to meet your partner once or twice a week, so you get your cardiovascular exercise done. If you would rather go hiking, set aside a couple of hours each weekend to get out in the great outdoors. Tailor your cardio efforts to your desires, and you are much more likely to stick with them.
In addition to your cardio time, you need to include strength training. While the increased muscle mass doesnt burn that many calories, it does help support joints and improves your overall resistance to injury. How many calories will muscle burn? Each additional pound of muscle will burn about 5 to 10 calories per day while at rest.
Also, hire a trainer when you start and periodically as you progress. This way you will do the exercises correctly which will reduce your chances of injury.
The other thing you should do is cross train; doing the same thing day after day will lead to boredom and repetitive motion injuries. Select a few activities you like and alternate. Try a new class or a new activity from time to time.
How You Eat Plays a Role Too
Exercise, by itself, wont lead to successful weight loss. Many people use exercise as an excuse to eat whatever they want, whenever they want. Unfortunately the body doesnt work that way. Weight loss is about caloric deficit.
There has been a lot of talk about which superfoods will cause you to lose weight overnight. That is another fallacy. Eating well will help your body stabilize any metabolic deficiencies, but no one food will provide a miracle.
Your diet, on top of being limited, should include whole grains, plenty of vegetables and fruit, grass fed beef or organically raised poultry and eggs. Skip milk, you can get your calcium from leafy green vegetables without the fats and hormones found in dairy products. Raw nuts, wild caught fish and the right fats will all combine to keep you satisfied and healthy.
Finally, remember that no matter how much weight you have to lose, you didnt gain it overnight, and it will take a while to shed it. Miracle diets dont work, and you probably know that from experience already. Make small changes, start slowly and build up. It wont be long before you start seeing progress, and that is the best incentive of all.
