Exercise

Exercise is good for you – ‘Tell me something I don’t know’ I hear you say! The problem and it’s a BIG problem is that knowledge alone is NOT enough to make us get up from the couch and actually do something!  Us knowing the cold, hard facts about exercise doesn’t help, not one tiny bit because it’s easier said than done.  The problems are many and here are a few common ones:

1. Lack of time. In today’s world, the demands on our time is such that it completely overtakes our life and overwhelms us. It’s a daily combination of work, family and household chores. To add to that, these demands leave us not only physically, but mentally empty as well. This can cause a downward spiral resulting in weight gain and a low level of fitness. Voila, a vicious circle is formed!

2. Lack of motivation.  This is probably a bigger problem than lack of time because it means you actually have to make yourself do something!  In our minds, we can free up time to do the things we love because that’s easy right?! Freeing up time to say watch a movie, go out with a friend or see your favourite band play is not only easy but enjoyable.  The problem is that motivating ourselves to do things that are for our long-term health and fitness goals is another thing altogether.  When this is at stake, we will find reasons NOT to do these things purely because that’s the easiest option! 

3. Health issues. You may have a temporary or permanent health problem that either stops you or limits what you are able to do in terms of exercise.  The Anti-Diet is not qualified to offer medical advice and if you do have a health limitation, please speak to your medical practitioner for advice and guidance before taking up any form of exercise.

If you are serious about losing weight, you will need to overcome whichever of the above obstacles that apply to you and unfortunately for many people, it will be at least two of them!

Because exercise is such an important aspect of health and fitness, bringing with it enormous benefits, it’s an issue that Anti-Dieters will need to address.  Here are some of the benefits in case you are left wondering:

1. You will look better in clothes
2. You will have more energy
3. Basic tasks in your life such as walking to the station, work, bus stop will be easier
4. You will enjoy having fun with your children and be able to join in games such as football, skipping, swimming etc.
5. It is likely to help you lose weight
6. You will be healthier
7. You are likely to avoid certain illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity related problems
8. Your quality of life will improve

As you can see from the above, the benefits are so many that there isn’t enough space to add them all here!  This is the reason why The Anti-Diet Lifestyle encourages you to be more mobile.  You do not have to join a gym, you do not have to take up marathon running but try and ‘do’ something.

I have found that the answer lies in the small things and sometimes in the almost invisible actions!  Here are a few examples to get you started:

1. Take a walk everyday – It does not have to be a five-mile trek for it to be good for you. In fact, if you start small, you are more likely to keep it up then if you set yourself unreachable goals.  Beginning with even five minutes a day is a great start!  Then, gradually build it up from there.  If your life is too busy, take the five-minute walk during your lunch hour or walk instead of drive where it is possible on your daily commute or school run.

2. Housework – Yes, this does count. Be aware when you are carrying out regular household chores.  Try and put in as much energy into them as possible.  Put on some up-beat music that you love as it will encourage you and energise you.

3. Get out in the garden – This is harder in the winter but in the summer, it is such an easy win! Dig a flower bed, cut the grass, paint that fence!

4. Dance! – If you are out socialising with friends or family and you see the opportunity (a dance floor!) then dance! You will find it is both fun and good for you – win, win!!

5. Shop – Now this is a great one you can use. When you are out shopping, use it as an opportunity to exercise.  Don’t stand on the escalator, walk up it; when you’re making your way from shop to shop, walk as fast a you can; take the longer route wherever possible etc, etc!!