Is Exercise a Weight Loss Trap?

A recent study conducted at Harvard University, threw a ditch into the road of the government recommendation of seven hours per week of exercise. The conclusion is that losing weight by exercising is harder than what was previously believed.

The study conducted at Harvard was published in the journal of the American Medical Association. The weight loss trap was discovered. Exercise is only one variable in losing weight. You must have a variety of physical fitness activity, in order to succeed in weight loss. When the body does not recognize exercise anymore as being an overload, any previous progress seems to stop.

Some people will increase their caloric intake while exercising, and that can also bring a stop to any weight loss. People who workout will sometimes over reward themselves for their efforts. Exercise can deserve some reward, but it should not be in the form of eating more. These types of behaviors have been called entitlement meals.

Eating the right foods before and during exercise, is very important to a dieter. It is also important to anyone who exercises. Staying hydrated, by drinking plenty of water, can help prevent excess fatigue. Some nutritionists recommend drinking at least 16 ounces of water an hour before workouts. It is also recommended to drink at least 5 to 11 fluid ounces for every 20 minutes of physical exertion. Staying ahead of hunger and thirst is the key to preventing them from happening.

Another key to successful weight loss, along with your fitness plan, is to avoid eating in the evening hours. Being hungry at night can be a sign that you have not been eating right during the day. To avoid those late evening hunger urges, try eating a small snack, or larger portions earlier in the day.

An interesting fact that I recently read, is that a premenstrual woman or a man in their early fifties, could suddenly gain 15 to 20 pounds in a year. This could happen even with a proper diet and exercise. To avoid this from happening, eliminate as many empty calories as possible. Avoiding cocktails and wine is the best way to eliminate these empty calories.

To learn more, I recommend a book titled - Faster, Better, Stronger: Your Fitness Bible. Coauthored by Eric Heiden, Massimo Testa, and Deanne Musolf.

For More Related Topics Blog: Weightloss Resource

For More Related Topics Blog: Weightloss Resource