The Basics of Exercise for Weight Loss

If you're ready to start a weight loss program, the first thing you need to do is commit to incorporating an exercise program into your routine. You can't experience long-lasting, healthy weight loss if you don't exercise regularly. Successful weight loss is a function of burning off more calories than you take in. Exercise is the key to expending the calories that you eat, and to getting your metabolism fired up so that your body burns calories at a higher rate all the time.

When deciding how you are going to approach incorporating exercise into your diet program, there are several factors to consider. There is no one right way to exercise, and you'll only be successful if you choose an approach that works well for you. For example, if you start out with an exercise program that is too aggressive, you're likely to get frustrated and give up before you start to see the benefits. It's important to start slowly, making small changes that help you develop a healthy pattern of regular exercise.

Types of Exercise

You don't have to spend several hours each day exercising, and you don't have to participate in particularly strenuous activities. The keys to an effective exercise program for weight loss are consistency and frequency. You should engage in at least 20 minutes of exercise each day. Ideally, your exercise routine will combine both aerobic and anaerobic activities. Aerobic exercises get your heart pumping and boost your metabolism for maximum fat burning. Anaerobic exercise is important for toning and building the lean muscle mass.

Popular aerobic exercises include: kick boxing, running, bicycling, brisk walking, swimming, and many other choices. Working out on an elliptical machine is another great form of aerobic activity. Anaerobic activities that many people enjoy include: yoga, Pilates, weight training, spot toning, and other choices. It may take a little while to find the combination that works best for you. Try several different activities to find out which ones suit you the best.

When to Exercise

In addition to choosing the types of exercise to include in your program, it's also important to decide when you will exercise. If you don't schedule specific times for exercise, you'll find yourself getting distracted by other tasks and neglecting to work out the way you should. If you are a morning person, you may want to schedule time to exercise first thing in the morning. Working out before you start your day is a great way to make sure your metabolism is working at full strength all day.

However, if you aren't likely to stick with a morning exercise routine, choose another time of day. Depending on your work environment, you may want to use your lunch hour for your exercise time. Many people enjoy working out in the evenings after work. Think about your schedule and your body's peak times, and choose the time of day that makes the most sense for your lifestyle.

Getting Started

When you understand and follow the basics of exercise for weight loss, you'll be on your way to enjoying the health benefits of increased physical activity in no time at all. Keep focused on your weight loss goal, and remember that sticking with your exercise program is the best way to make progress toward accomplishing the results you desire.

Before getting started consult your physician, fitness expert or other professional to make sure your exercises are safe, especially if you have any medical issues.

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