If you are looking to try walking as a route to losing weight, the question is not whether it works or not, (because it does) but what kind of results you expect to see if you are walking to lose weight. Some weight control products promise an overnight body change, but these claims are usually unfounded. It is a well known fact that regular physical activity is a necessary component for weight loss and general health, but let us explore some additional techniques that can be used to see tangible results quicker.
- Get the right time. Choose your time frame for walking to lose weight and stick to it. The US Surgeon General recommends for good health at least 30 minutes of physical activity for adults on most days of the week. If you are focusing primarily on weight loss, however, an hour is generally better.
- Get a walking partner. Walking with a companion significantly eases the mental focus and discipline of walking alone. A spouse or close friend can allow for intense, light-hearted, or even profound conversation to occupy the required time frame without feeling a sense of obligation to complete an unpleasant task. Just as you, through dialogue, aren't that aware of the exercise you are giving your body, in the same way, you will start to quickly lose weight without you even realizing it.
- Watch your diet. The effects of walking to lose weight are greatly enhanced when you make sure to maintain a healthy diet. Even if it means just cutting out fast foods and snacks, this will positively affect the impact your walking has on your weight loss goals. Be mindful of other things that you may be tempted to put into your body, such as weight loss pills and the like. Using more than one method of weight loss simultaneously is risky, so beware.
- Be disciplined. If it is your intention to make walking to lose weight a regular or even daily part of your routine, you need to make a habit out of it. It is generally said that in order to form a habit, one must perform the required action consistently for 21 days. After that, it no longer is difficult because you are now accustomed to it, and may even grow to look forward to doing it. Make walking a habit, and follow the tips outlined above, and you will be able to answer the question “Does walking to lose weight really work?” with a resounding “Yes!”
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
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