What is the best exercise to lose weight?

This question is a big one – but my answer is the one that you enjoy and will stick with.

Since I was in my 20′s (and am now in my 50′s) I have been exercising and looking for the “ideal” exercise to stay fit. Here is a sample list of the programs I have tried (I am sure many people can relate to this list):

  • Belly Dancing
  • Aerobics – all kindsTreadmill exercise
  • Running
  • Walking
  • Power Walking
  • Free Weights
  • Weight Machines
  • Tread Mills
  • Stair Steppers
  • Eliptical Machines
  • Yoga -every kind (even hot yoga)
  • Pilates
  • Exercise BallsExercise Ball
  • Zumba
  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Body Pump
  • Body Combat
  • Circuit Training, and on and on…..

I have joined fitness centers, yoga centers and purchased videos in the hopes I would be encouraged to exercise more often from the comforts of my home.  And like most people once I start a new regiment, I talk about how great it is and how wonderful I feel and I will do this til the day I can no longer move.

So many of the exercises have gone by the wayside. I do enjoy walking, fast walking at times and hill climbing. I am fortunate because where I live there are hills to walk up and down which makes the journey enjoyable. I like being outdoors, so that is a plus.  One thing I know for sure after all of these years, I dislike the treadmill. I can be outside and walk for 2 hours, but at the gym, I am constantly checking the clock and am ready to dismount after 30 minutes.

What is the Easiest Form of Exercise

WalkingWalking is the easiest form of exercise – no special training, clothing or equipment. And it is free. The only thing I would recommend is a good pair of walking shoes. There is documented evidence that shows if you walk 30 minutes to 1 hour 4-5 times a week (every day is ideal), you can expect to lose weight without changing your eating habits. And just think what would happen if you altered your food intake.

The other exercises I enjoy are Zumba and Yoga. Zumba because it is dancing and I like dancing and Yoga because it really stretches my body and I feel so wonderful after a Yoga session.

Do I engage everyday in each one of these exercises – no. But there isn’t a week that goes by that I haven’t engaged in some form of exercise at least 3 days, some weeks I will exercise every  day. And when I am feeling really energetic I will do a Yoga class in the morning and a Zumba class in the evening.

These exercises may not be for everyone, but the idea is to try something and find one or two forms of exercise that you enjoy. That is the key. If it feels like a burden and you constantly need to be motivated to do it, it won’t last.

Exercise

Bottom line – the ideal and best exercise that will help you lose weight and stay fit is the one YOU enjoy practicing!

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