2. Before you start
Check with your doctor. Get the green light and
get a physical baseline. Not only will this help you
proceed safely but it will also help you analyze
your progress at your next check up.
Make sure you have a good pair of athletic
shoes, shoes can make all the difference in the
effectiveness of a workout and paid and
problems that start in the feet only spread.
Comfortable clothes I prefer spandex, but I
recommend cotton. It’s looser fitting, and cooler
and generally more comfortable. (Comfort and
mobility is the name of the game.)
3. Water
Aerobics
Water aerobics are a way to make
intensive movements a whole lot
easier. The water helps take the
pressure off of joints not to
mention its just a blast. Water
aerobics is a great first group
exercise class
4. Chair Exercises
Chair workouts are in abundance and are low impact. Not
only that but they require no equipment other that a chair
and a few optional extras. Chair workouts can be done as a
program of their own or they can be done as a way of
keeping active and limber through out the day.
Here is a sample chair routine. Exercises like these can be done in the
comfort of your own home.
5. Walking
Walking is simple. It’s a good way to
begin developing the cardiac stamina
and to just generally get accustomed
to regular physical activity. I may
despise running but I find walking
beyond enjoyable and a great excuse
for just getting outside.
6. Cycling
Cycling is a more intense cardio
workout but it offers a challenge
and a great range of variability in
difficulty levels. Hop on a bike,
blast for favorite workout songs
and ride along.
7. Zumba
Zumba really is a workout for those who
don’t want to feel like they’re working out.
I’ve never been in a Zumba class where the
environment and the energy wasn’t great
from the jump. Instructors offer great
modifying moves to make sure you feel no
less groovy even if you’re limited.
8. Group Bootcamps
Group classes are generally at the top of my
recommendation list any type of group class.
Group bootcamps are amazing but they also
typically come with a level of expectation a
difficulty that is not accommodating for everyone.
It can be intimidating but if you can find an
instructor experienced in working with the obese
or at least someone willing to learn with you it is
most definitely worth while.
9. Kick-boxing
Kick boxing classes are a fun way to
feel like an absolute boss while
working out. Again, a lot of these
movements require an amount of
mobility and flexibility that
overweight people who aren’t used
to exercise may not be ready to
jump right into but with time and
patience it can be one of the most
rewarding workouts.
10. Weight-lifting
Weightlifting is not an exercise for faint
of heart. It requires technique and
strength and can cause a great strain
on joints. Still when its time to change
it up or add something to your usual
gym routine weightlifting is a great
option. Under the proper supervision
weightlifting adds and extra fat burning
muscle toning component to take your
fitness to the next level.
