Exercise Program

An exercise program is the foundation behind any commitment to improve one’s health. According to the American Heart Association, a 200-pound individual who consumes the same amount of calories but walks briskly each day for 1-2 miles will lose approximately 14 pounds per year. The following chart reveals the number of calories utilized per hour for various activities involving 100, 150 and 200 pound individuals.

Source: American Heart Association

Realistically, the calories an individual burns while walking his/her 1-2 miles is probably negated with the refreshing glass of Gatorade consumed upon the completion of the walk. However, the commitment this individual made to drag his/her body out of the warm bed at sunrise to subject oneself to pain, will set a positive atmosphere for the entire day. First, this individual’s metabolism will be in relative shock racing to keep up with an energy expenditure that is usually not reached until way in the late afternoon if reached at all. Secondly, this individual is now developing a sense of self-worth and devotion towards his/her goals. Donuts, sitting in the lobby at work, no longer represent the same temptation nor will second helpings or late-night deserts. Thought processes, such as, "Why should I negate all my early morning workouts by consuming these unhealthy, fattening foods?" begin to dictate actions in a positive manner.

Unfortunately, dropout rates from all fitness programs is excessive, statistics indicate that only 20 percent of those individuals that begin an exercise continue to exercise for one year. Exercise programs should be tailored to an individual interests and considerations. For example, ex-basketball players should research where there are pick up games are being played, if golf is your passion, briskly walk the course instead of riding in the cart, ex-swimmers find a masters program that meets at lunch, house-wives start a walking social group, etc. Goals for physical activity should involve a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes 4-5 times per week. Individuals should strive to reach a heart rate that is 60-80 percent of their maximum rate (estimated maximum heart rate can be calculated by using the standard 220 minus an individual’s current age).

Individuals, who are creative in developing an exercise agenda, combining physically challenging events in a social atmosphere, are more likely to sustain their efforts over the long term. Research indicates that individuals who include physical activity in their weight loss programs are more likely to succeed in keeping the weight off. In addition to promoting weight control, exercise improves strength and flexibility, increases HDL levels (good cholesterol), reduces individual’s risk of heart disease, and helps to control blood pressure and diabetes, while promoting an overall sense of well being.