Patch Blog: Lose Weight the Easy Way

As a personal trainer in the La Crescenta and La Canada Flintridge area, there has been one question that comes up more than all others combined: How do I lose weight fast? The best way to start is by walking.

If I tell you all the good reasons it may hopefully turn good intentions into real actions.

1. Walking is good for the heart. As you lose weight you gain increased stroke volume as a by product. This means as your heart beats it pumps more blood each time. Better stoke volume equates to less pumps or a more efficient heart rate. Basically it makes your heart last longer because it works less over a lifetime.

2. You can improve your balance when you add walking to your weekly routine. Don't take it for granted if you haven't already noticed your balance slipping. As we age we move less and this can have a negative effect on our balance. As you walk you not only burn lots of calories but more importantly you work over a hundred muscles in the feet, ankles and legs. The first line of defense against poor balance is strong muscles in the lower extremities.

3. Who doesn't want more energy? One of the best reason to start walking more often is the fact that it speeds up your metabolism and gives you more energy. It may be a "catch 22" but man, or woman, up even when you're tired. You'll feel more energized when your done and proud of yourself for making the extra effort.

4. With increased energy you stimulate weight loss. Improved balance prevents falls and avoidable surgery. I think it may be safe to say that walking promotes overall health and longevity. Remember it's not how long you live but the quality of life, the confidence and happiness you carry into your later years.

5. Finally, walking is a good first step before you start shaping and toning your body. Although it makes absolutely no sense, many people want to lose weight before they start working out (strength training). It has been documented by everyone in the know for 20 plus years, that strength training speeds up weight loss. You can add four or five exercises to your walking to accelerate the process. You don't need a gym and you don't need a lot of instruction. If you want some advice on how to put the good intentions into action, visit our website at body-mastery.net.