There are certainly a lot of tips out there on how to lose weight. However, what many articles fail to address is how hard it can be to get fit and exercise when you are obese or morbidly obese. Exercise can help you achieve a healthy BMI, but it is risky, so you often feel like you’re stuck in a catch-22 situation. If you have a lot of weight to lose, and have a lot to lose, then here are some ways you can get started.
Get support for weight loss
Going it alone is not really an option if you need to lose a lot of weight. It’s a long road, and it’s best to have experts by your side along the way. Consider consulting your doctor at first, so they can clear you to do exercise and refer you to a specialist for help.
Choose low impact, tailored activities
If you are carrying lots of extra weight, then you can’t simply jump on a treadmill and start running, as the additional weight can put pressure on your joints. It’s better to build your strength with some low impact activities first, so you can work your way up to higher impact sports. Water aerobics for weight loss is a good place to start, as the water supports your joints, help you avoid aches and pains and meaning you can give it your all.
Group classes are also great as they keep you motivated, so you’re less likely to quit. Consider booking yourself onto a course and paying in advance.
You’ll need to avoid injuries
Unfortunately, injuries are more common in people who are heavier. After all, you are putting more pressure on your body when you move. It’s very important that you look into preventing workout injuries, as this will lessen your chance of a painful sprain or pull, which can stop you from reaching your goal.
When you work out, you should:
- Make sure you wear suitable footwear to support your body and give you good posture
- Gently stretch before exercise
- If you feel too much discomfort, slow down
- Get proper instruction so you can be sure you’re doing the exercises properly
If you do get injured, be sure to get medical attention quickly, so that you can avoid permanent damage.
Exercise with your buddies
Want to know the best way to stay motivated and on-plan? It’s working out with a buddy. Getting your daily exercise with a friend means it’s more of a fun, social occasion, and you’re less likely to get bored and quit. If you are someone who’s guilty of starting new sports then getting bored of them, then a workout buddy can ensure that you stay on track and don’t quit after a couple of weeks.
Exercising is difficult when you’re overweight, but it’s an important component to weight loss and leading a healthy lifestyle. Try to find activities that can be done by people of any size and join social groups and get support if you need it.