As we age, we generally become less active. This often leads to unwanted weight gain and other health problems.
Find an activity that you can do that will get your body moving. If you enjoy it, chances are you will stick with it and reap the rewards.
Do something active for at least 45 minutes, 3 or 4 times a week. Make it a priority. Schedule time for exercise, and don’t let other things interfere. Do what you enjoy. Dance, walk, run, swim, go to the gym, do exercise videos, take an exercise class, or whatever activity you like - change it when you get bored.
Adding weight training to your exercise routine will build muscle and burn even more calories. Muscle burns considerably more calories than fat. It’s also heavier than fat, so initially you may gain a few pounds of muscle weight, but look slimmer and notice that your clothes fit better. Don’t rely on a scale as the only measurement of your progress. Body fat percentage, tape measurements, how your clothes fit, and how you feel are also important indicators.
Women need not worry about “bulking up” from lifting weights. Genetics make it nearly impossible for women to obtain bulky muscles without taking some type of hormones or steroid drugs. Weight training will not only help you look more firm and toned, but it will help guard against Osteoporosis. [Copyright © 2004 World Image Naturals, Inc. www.worldimage.com ]
