We all know (or have been told) that being over-weight has a negative impact on our health, which it does. But what we are not told is that you can still be healthy and fit, even if you are packin’ too many pounds (or stones or kilograms-depending on where you live.)

It is well documented in medical journals that obesity can contribute to and/or further impact many disease and health issues, including, but not limited to coronary artery disease, heart attacks, diabetes, arthritis, depression, chronic back pain…the list goes on. Did you know that even with a minimal weight loss of 5% of your total body weight, these risks can significantly be decreased?

For example, weight loss and exercise can decrease a predisposed individual’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58%. Even a weight loss of 10-15 pounds can:
• Reduce blood pressure
• Lower blood sugar
• Improve cholesterol levels
• Lighten the stress on hips, knees, ankles, and feet

Ok, now you say, “I’m too heavy, how am I going to exercise to lose weight so that I increase my health?” That’s very good question, and believe it not, it isn’t difficult.

• First, you must want to change. If the motivation isn’t there, you will fail. So search your heart to see how ready you are to commit to a lifetime of change. If you aren’t ready yet, don’t start, otherwise you will set yourself up for a cycle of failure and depression.

• If you are ready emotionally, the next question is physical readiness. There’s a great online questionanaire available here. healthy living This review will help you know if you should check in with your Family Doctor first, to ask if there any activities that she/he would recommend that you not participate in. Okay, so your doctor gives you a “Thumps-Up,” now what?

I suggest ride a bike. Yes that’s right, I said, “Ride a bike.” It is a great, healthy, safe exercise (providing you know how to ride a bike.) It is a flexible, low cost activity, and easy on your joints. With only 2-3 hours/week (less if have been inactive for a long time) you can make a significant change in your health; not only because of the increase in activity, but also because of the weight loss that is a wonderful secondary benefit. So now you are concerned that you are too heavy to ride a trike. You think, “I could never find a bike to support my weight.”

NOT TRUE!!
There’s a wonderful website that sells bikes for “Supersized” people. Not only do they have bikes that support up to 550 pounds, but they can build a bike to fit you specifically. Check it out! bicycle

Just remember, as overwhelmed as you may feel now, we did not get this way overnight, and it isn’t going to be corrected overnight. You’re not alone. Take the first step, decide to change. I did.

1. Healthy Living Will Involve More Things Than Starving Yourself And Exercise
2. Living In A Big City
3. The Healthy Way To Get Thinner
4. Review These Tips For Healthy and balanced Weight Loss
5. Finding The Best Fitness Equipment To Help You Get Fit And Healthy

FreshAire