If you want to lose weight, getting more exercise is important. But many people struggle to stick with an exercise routine for weight loss. Consistency is key, so that is something you'll need to work on if you want to drop the pounds successfully. Here are a few tips to help you stick with your exercise routine for weight loss.
Work your way up slowly
Quite often, people get really excited to start exercising and losing weight, so they really go at it and work out as hard as they can. But they end up overdoing it, making themselves sore, and then not going back to the gym for weeks on end. If you want to stick with an exercise plan, you need to start off slow. This can mean different things to different people. If walking for 10 minutes is all you can handle, just start with that. The next week, walk for 12 minutes a day. The week after that, work up to 15 minutes a day. You should not feel exhausted or like you need a nap after a workout. If you do, then you're going too hard.
Do some strength training
Cardio burns a lot of calories quickly so it is usually a mainstay in exercise programs when weight loss is a goal. But there are some benefits to including strength training in your exercise plan, too. Strength training builds muscle tissue, and extra muscle tissue burns more calories, even when you're just sitting around. That will help you lose weight. Note that strength training does not have to mean lifting weights. It can be plyometric exercises like lunges and squats. Or, it can be a workout you do with resistance bands or a kettlebell. Strength training also adds some variety to your workout routine, and you're more likely to stick to a varied workout. Plus, you'll be less likely to become injured and have to take extra days off when you strength train.
Take days off
Working out regularly is important. However, you will burn out and quit if you try to work out every day. Your body needs time to recover from your workouts, which is why you should really take at least one day per week off. Thinking of this as a day to recharge and prepare for your next round of workouts can help keep you going back.
With these tips, you're more likely to stick with your exercise routine and lose weight. Good luck!
Do you prefer to exercise at a gym or outside of a gym? There's no right or wrong answer here. It's mostly a matter of personal preference. Some people really find the gym environment to be motivating and enriching. Others prefer the fresh air and the great outdoors; they feel to confined in the gym.
We are not here to knock your exercise preferences, whatever they may be. On this blog, we write for anyone who loves exercise, and even for those who are trying to improve their relationship with exercise. Read a few articles, and we think you may feel more inspired to get moving.