You know that a healthy eating plan is only one part of a successful medical weight loss plan. You also need to exercise… But for many people, that reminder elicits groans and eye rolls. Not everyone enjoys exercise, but that’s okay. We can help you try different strategies that will make your workouts more enjoyable, such as…
Choose an activity you like. Early morning boot camp classes aren’t for everyone. If you’re more of a salsa-dance-at-night type, then sign up for a dance class instead! Or try rollerblading, swimming, a spin class, or something else that has always appealed to you. The important thing is to get moving.
Try classes. If you’re the social type, sign up for a few different exercise classes. Experiment and find something that you enjoy. Not everyone wants to hike miles around their neighborhood, alone, and that’s okay!
Invite a friend. If you’re nervous about hitting up a new gym, recruit a friend to go with you. Or simply take this friend on your evening walk. The conversation and company will make the time seem to fly by.
Vary your pace. No, you don’t have to slog away at an activity you despise, huffing and puffing for 30 minutes or more. Vary the pace of your walk, jog, or bike ride. Add hills or change up the route to keep it interesting. Bursts of speed will serve to keep up your heart rate without wearing you out too early.
Train for an event. For some people, looking forward to a long term goal is highly motivating. If you train for a charity walk or run, you also earn a sense of satisfaction by helping a worthwhile cause.
Make a game of it. Fitness tracker apps don’t have to be boring. Turn your exercise routine into a game, by using an app that installs a storyline into your sweat sessions. Explore a virtual galaxy, run from zombies, or hunt for rare Pokemon on your hikes. And no, there’s no need to feel silly; no one knows you’re doing anything other than listening to music.
Try these ideas, and don’t be afraid to get creative! As for the dietary portion of your medical weight loss plan, call us to schedule an appointment. We can help you identify your nutritional needs and make a plan to meet your weight loss goals.
