The Battle of the Bulge

Every one knows that exercise is important; however, not everyone actually exercises. To many people, faithfully following an exercise program seems like an impossible dream. In reality, any one can maintain a physical fitness routine and reach their health goals. Most people just need a few tips.

According to the 1999–2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, approximately 65 percent of adults living in the United States are overweight or obese. In addition to the lowered energy levels and reduced self confidence that being over weight causes, obesity also puts people at risk for several serious health complications, including coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Every year, millions of people are bombarded with one fad diet after another. Yet despite this constant stream of gimmicks, there is only one real way to lose weight: exercise regularly and maintain a healthy diet. Both diet and exercise are important, but many people find that once they start exercising, eating healthily starts to become easier. The trick is to exercise regularly.

Setting Priorities

For many people, exercise simply is not the priority it should be. Some people decide to exercise skip workouts because they believe that their time is better spent burning the midnight oil at work, cleaning the house, grocery shopping, or spending time with friends. But in order to lose weight, exercise needs to be a priority; people need to stop feeling guilty about “wasting” time exercising. After all, exercise leads to increased energy and may even increase people’s life span, so the time spend exercising is more than made up for. This is not to say that other obligations should be neglected. Of course, friends, family, and work are very important, but exercise is important, too.

People who think they simply do not have enough time to exercise should take a very close look at their schedule; there is almost certainly at least 30 minutes a day that can be spared. If time is truly scarce, people can combine exercise with other activities. A good workout does not necessarily involve mindlessly running on a treadmill; people can exercise while spending quality time with their kids or having fun with their friends by organizing a day of hiking, ice skating, playing basket ball, or participating any other physical activity. This way, other people will benefit from some exercise, and no time is “wasted” exercising.

Additionally, people should try to walk as much as possible. In addition to the great exercise, waking in lieu of driving will save money on gas and parking and benefit the environment. Biking is another great option.