Six Steps to Good Health
Tips for losing weight and for getting
the most out of your exercise program.
by Julio
Dicent Taillepierre
 1.
Eat Less, But More Often
Have you noticed that some people still gain weight, even after
exercising more? If this is happening to you, then think about
not only about what you're eating, but how often you're eating.
To make the most of your exercise plan, you should eat less,
but more often. For example, instead of eating the usual three
main meals, consider eating four to five meals, but smaller ones
throughout the day. Make each portion of each meal no larger
than your fist and keep your sugar and salt levels low. Also,
with each small meal, make sure there's a portion of protein
in it, and leave carbohydrates for morning and afternoon meals.
For example, a can of tuna or a chicken breast is high in protein,
low in fat, and low in carbohydrates. Both are great food examples
of what you can eat as part of your small meal. So start checking
those nutrition labels, start eating more, but start eating right.
2. Drink Water To Cool
Off And To Stay Fit
Whether you're in a warm or cold climate, you need water to be
healthy and to stay that way. If you work out, without drinking
a regular supply of water, your muscles will cramp up, and you'll
feel tired sooner-not to mention, without water, your skin will
break out more often. So drink at least eight glasses of water
each day, even if you drink caffeine or sugar drinks.
3. Give Your Stomach
A Rest Every Night
Going to bed on an empty stomach is a great way to help you sleep
better and to help you lose weight. Give yourself at least three
hours to digest the food you eat. If you can't resist a snack
at night, then you can "cheat" in a smart way: if you
must, you can eat a light fiber snack such as eating a small
bowl of leaf greens with carrots and celery-or drink a small
glass of warm milk or tea. Of course, you can always start eating
again as soon as you wake up so give your stomach a rest at night.
4. Do Stretching, Aerobics,
and Weight Lifting Activities
Your exercise program will be much more effective and satisfying
if your goal is to improve your overall health, not just your
physical appearance. Whatever exercise routine you choose to
take, make sure there's lots of variety in and out of the gym
including activities you can do anywhere and in any season. Make
sure to combine activities that require stretching, aerobics,
as well as weight lifting. Group sports are a great way to make
friends and get in shape at the same time!
5. Don't Just Jump In,
Take Small Steps
If you're exercising for the first time, or even if you're changing
your routine, it's good to start off your exercising program
slowly and build intensity in your routine over time. Exercise
experts recommend doing a set of exercises for two to three months
then changing the routine by either of the following:
- Increasing the number
of activities during the next two to three month time period
(faster)
- Increasing the difficulty
in the exercise (exercising multiple muscle groups at the same
time)
- Increasing the intensity
of the same exercise (lifting heavier, executing more repetitions
per set, or contracting the muscle with the same amount of weight
but slower and with harder contractions)
The important thing to
remember is not to combine all three styles of exercising during
the same stage-you'll wear yourself out!
6. Consult With Experts
No matter your age, body type, or fitness level, there's always
room for improvement, especially to get in the best shape ever!
So take care of your body, and consult your doctor before starting
on any exercise program or before changing your diet. Get started
and good luck!
<<Previous
Article<< | >>Next
Article>>
qv17
Table of Contents | Main Menu
|
