Exercise is important not just for weight loss, but for heart health, bone health and muscular health. The three types of exercise are aerobic, strength training and flexibility training.
As it gets colder outside for most of us, it is easy to lose motivation to exercise. This is because the weather is not as nice, we get busy with the holidays and we eat a lot more. But these are all reasons why it’s so important to continue our exercise habits.
Aerobic, or cardiovascular, exercise can be done indoors a few ways. If you have access to a treadmill, elliptical or rowing machine, these are great options. If not, you can still do jumping jacks, run in place or perform your exercises a little faster (but still controlled) to keep your heart rate up.
Strength training can be performed indoors with very inexpensive equipment such as hand weights of various sizes or resistance bands. You can also do plyometrics (use your own body weight for resistance), such as pushups, squats, lunges and sit-ups. Strength training is not only important for developing lean muscle mass, which helps to burn calories and look toned. It is also important for bone density.
Finally, flexibility training is important for injury prevention and for range of motion. Practicing stretching several times a week is a very important part of any workout program. You can practice yoga using a book or DVD, or simply do easy stretches like touching your toes or reaching for the sky, as long as you dedicate some time to lengthening your muscles.
Keep in mind that exercise is a very important habit to develop for whole wellness and that it is never too late to get started!