Wednesday, October 3, 2007

7 Reasons Why You Should Exercise to Lose Weight

Exercise should be an integral part of a weight loss program. The main focus of exercise is to burn more calories but there are more great reasons that cannot be ignored. Unless you are severely obese or limited to the exercises you can take, you should start exercising if you are not. Here are 7 reasons why you should stay physically active.

#1 Lose Body Fat

This is the most obvious reason. The more active you are, the more calories you will burn. However exercise should be performed in such as way that the body’s fat should be burned for energy. Aim to exercise at least 30 –45 minutes daily for at least 3 times a week at moderate intensity rather than short intense workouts. Studies have shown that the body fat is utilized more if the energy used is at modest intensity. Your body weight will drop if all else including your diet intake is kept constant

#2 Increase Strength

Doing physical or strength exercises do help in building body strength. Strength exercises can help you to lose weight much faster than dieting alone. Besides you will feel to have more strength in doing the daily activities such as gardening and house chores which in turn helps you to lose weight. However, for strength training, remember to start at a level you are comfortable with and slowly work your way up.

#4 Speed Up Metabolism

Aerobic exercises such as walking, cycling and swimming can help to increase your metabolism. It is advisable to incorporate both aerobic and strength exercises for optimal fat burning. Some experts have suggested that morning exercise is the best to keep your metabolic rate up. This will mean more fat burning for the rest of the day.

#5 Decrease Stress

Exercise also reduces stress by releasing feel-good hormones called endorphins. You will feel good and relax after an exercise. The feel-good hormones effect will stay in your body even after you are done with exercising. Walking is therapeutic so is swimming or playing a sport game. Whenever you feel stressed out, go for a game of sport as an exercise. Your mind and body will be at ease whilst your body burns more calories.

#6 Feel Healthier

When you exercise, your heart will beat faster and harder. Exercise improves blood circulation as oxygen is used more efficiently. It lowers high blood pressure that leads to strokes and other health problems such as diabetes and obesity. Endurance exercises such as jogging or running will help in weight loss besides improving the heart, lungs, and circulatory system. Therefore not only exercise helps you to lose weight, you’ll be healthier too.

#7 Gain Confidence

There is no doubt that exercises or physical activities will result in a weight loss for you. The psychological benefits are aplenty as you feel more confident that you have come this far and achieve it. You will feel inspired and motivated and your new confidence will shine through.

Now you know the best reasons why you should exercise for your weight loss. Go ahead and start exercising, it’s for your personal success.

Jessie Mcfarland is your #1 recommended weight loss consultant. Get FREE Insider Access to her opt-in-list, private blog and members-only forum and learn how to lose weight the smart and healthy way at http://weightlossdietclub.com

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