According to Acsm.org
Obesity is a significant health problem in the United States, affecting
close to one-third of all adults. Although genetics can play a role in
the likelihood that a person will become obese, the condition occurs
when the amount of calories consumed exceeds the amount of calories
expended over a long period of time.
Benefits of Regular Exercise
Regular exercise (and proper nutrition) can help reduce body fat as well
as protect against chronic diseases associated with obesity. If you are
looking for a reason to start an exercise program, listed below are
five of the many benefits of regular physical activity.
- Exercise lowers risk for chronic diseases
- Exercise improves your mood
- Exercise helps manage weight
- Exercise promotes better sleep
- Exercise can be FUN
Precautions
- It is important to gradually increase the duration and intensity of the exercises, while understanding that you will have to build up to longer and more strenuous workouts.
- Jogging can cause stress on the knees and joints and is generally not recommended for the obese because of risk for injury. Instead, stick to lower impact aerobic activities until you are in better shape.
- Obese people should be especially careful about heat exhaustion given that they are less able to adapt to temperature changes. Wearing light clothing will allow for better heat exchange while exercising.
- Hydration is very important for the obese, since they are susceptible to dehydration. Be sure to drink fluids frequently before, during, and after exercise.
- Slow down or stop if you experience chest pains, shortness of breath, palpitations, nausea, pain in the neck or jaw, or major muscle or joint pain.
- Take the stairs.
- Park farther from the door.
- Take a short walk at lunch.
- Turn off the TV.
- Take walk breaks from work.
- Wear a pedometer for monitoring your activity.
