Lose Weight After 40: Four Simple Workouts For People Over 40
Has fear kept you from starting an over 40 exercise routine? Are you intimidated by the physique of the athletes at the gym? Do you worry that you will hurt yourself if you go for a run or do aerobics? Is it just very uncomfortable to use exercise machines? These worries prevent thousands from restoring their health and happiness through fitness
Going for a walk is easy and is a fantastic workout. Ideally, this type of exercise should elevate your heartbeat for at least 30 minutes. Therefore, it does not matter how far or how fast you walk, just walk for 30 minutes. After a week, try to walk a little further in the same amount of time. As you do, you will gain strength and speed. It will not be long until you are ready for a light jog.
A simple bike ride is an excellent alternative to walking. Bicycling is lower impact and something you can do with a group, to stay motivated. You do not need an expensive bike, just one that feels comfortable. Stationary bikes are just as effective, but you may prefer the changing scenery of a bicycle. Also, many people are having success with recumbent cross training machines which is a stationary cycling style machine that exercises your total body.
Do not worry if you are not ready for a jog or a bike ride. It is very important that you start at a level that is comfortable for you. If you begin with too much intensity, you are more likely to lose motivation, quit, or injure yourself. If you want to start very slowly, there are simple exercises you can do throughout your day to prepare yourself for increased activity.
You can even sit at your desk or on a couch and still continue your exercises. Leg lifts, especially with the added resistance of ankle weights, build muscle and prepare you for greater activity. Two or five pound weights can be used to perform curls, which strengthens your upper body. These kinds of activity will help prepare you for more intensity like a brisk walk or light aerobics.
Your local pool may offer water aerobics or aquatic classes. These exercises are easy on your joints and prepare you for a more intense workout. Water resistance makes simple movements twice as effective. Also, you can use foam dumbbells and aqua belts to increase resistance even further.
A pedometer is great tool for anyone beginning to focus on fitness over 40. Wear the pedometer everyday for a week to see your normal level of activity. Note the times when you are most sedentary. Make a goal to increase your activity during those periods. For example, if you are inactive at work then try to avoid the elevator, park a little bit further from the building, and walk around the block for your lunch break.
There is no reason for you to be nervous. Whether you go for a walk, hop on a bike, or simply workout on your couch, it can be really easy to begin an over 40 exercise program. Do not let your worry keep you from having a longer, healthier life.