Feast or Famine

The defeat of famine is the goal of all successful societies. Unfortunately, triumph often evolves into the other extreme — obesity.

Here’s what I mean: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 42% of U.S. adults are not just overweight but obese. That’s not a typographical error. Four out of ten Americans are obese! And we aren’t alone, if that is any consolation. Other developed nations have similar weight problems.

(According to the CDC, overweight and obesity are both labels for ranges of weight that are greater than what is generally considered healthy for a given height. The terms also identify ranges of weight that have been shown to increase the likelihood of certain diseases and other health problems.)

Now that summer is here in the Northern Hemisphere a lucky few may be able to display six-pack abs. Well, that’s great. But somewhere between the extremes of six-packs versus one’s belly hanging over his or her belt is most people's sweet spot. For good health and a nice appearance, actual six-packs aren’t essential; but firm abdominal muscles are required, along with the absence of a thick layer of fat covering them. That’s most people’s sweet spot.

What if you are already overweight or obese?

How do you go about achieving a healthy body weight? Honestly, if it were easy, no one would be fat. The truth is, shaping up does require lifestyle changes. Yet with a true desire to be fit, success is very attainable. Here is what you must do.

First, and most important, is to stop eating more food than you need. That may sound overly simple and obvious. But it is the heart of all weight loss methods. You must consistently consume fewer calories than your body requires to maintain your current weight.

There are many ways to do it. Programs such as Weight Watchers have been successful for many. Or working with your doctor or a dietician might be the right path. Just beware of diet pills (example) or quick-fix promises. That’s not the way to go. Personally, I find hand-measurement for portion control eating is simple and effective, described here.

Second, you must consistently exercise. Exercise is a key, even though it is in second place. But “second place”? Don’t be surprised. Because if you don’t first get calorie intake under control, all the exercise in the world won’t burn off the fat. To succeed, it takes a comprehensive approach. Sure, if you consistently reduce calories, yet don’t bother exercising, yes, you will still lose weight. But without proper exercise, you will end up thinner — yet flabby.

Here are two how-to-do-it places to get honest help . . .

Ab Exercise and a Trim Waistline

and, for beginners . . .

Beginning Weight Training

For bodyweight only exercise ideas, go here.

Stay healthy. Stay fit.

Logan

Senior Exercise Central

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Sincerely,

Logan Franklin
The Gray Iron Fitness Newsletter
www.senior-exercise-central.com