Do NOT Exercise for Weight Loss

February 5, 2014 / Posted in: Fitness & Exercise, Helpful Tips, Simple Steps Series

Do NOT Exercise for Weight Loss? Have I lost my mind? Why else would anyone exercise? Well, there is a long list of health benefits that have nothing to do with fitting in your skinny jeans. In addition, according to Dr. Mercola, your weight is 80% dependent on a nourishing whole food diet, and only 20% dependent on physical activity; so don’t bother killing yourself with 2 hours per day at the gym. Your time would be better spent with one and a half hours dedicated to procuring and preparing nourishing food throughout the day, and only 1/2 hour on some kind of fitness activity.

If Not for Weight Loss – Why Bother?

1. BECAUSE IT FEELS GOOD!
Hopefully you can remember a time when you moved simply to experience the joy of movement; for an example of this, watch small children playing in the yard, or dancing around the kitchen.

Lately, I’ve been enjoying Dr. Mercola’s High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). I had the opportunity to hear Dr. Mercola speak about HIIT at the Wise Traditions Conference in November. I was impressed by his high levels of fitness and energy. The thing I like most about HIIT is that it doesn’t require a lot of time; just 20 minutes, three times per week. Although Dr. Mercola recommends performing HIIT on an elliptical, I find it exhilarating to sprint outdoors.

2. A CHALLENGING ACTIVITY BUILDS CONFIDENCE
Do you like a challenge? In 2010, I trained for, and completed, a marathon. I could barely run 1/2 mile when I started training. Challenging? Yes. A feeling of great accomplishment? You bet! You can read more about my experience of marathon running for personal growth at our blog.

3. SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH OTHERS
Obstacle Course Training is another enjoyable and challenging workout. In 2012, Perfect Supplements sponsored a team, and raced in a local 5K Obstacle Course – Boldrdash. The organizers of the event offered training boot camps prior to the event. Obstacle Course Training offers the bonus of sharing the experience with others. Not only did we race as a team, but the boot camps were shared with individuals who like to push themselves to physical extremes, such as carrying very heavy objects uphill (admittedly, this type of work out may not be enjoyed by everyone).

Another example of ‘sharing the experience with others’ would be joining a local sports team, or taking a class, such as martial arts.

Benefits of Movement

Release Endorphins (Feel Good Hormones)
Reduce Stress
Increase Energy
Reduce Stiffness
Improve Cholesterol Levels
Strengthen Your Heart and Lungs
Lower Blood Pressure
Detox Your Body through Perspiration

4. MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING DEVELOPS DISCIPLINE AND QUICK REFLEXES
Over the past twenty years I have tried a huge assortment of workouts. Martial Arts training is one that I return to again and again. For the past three years, our entire family of five has attended classes together. There are a lot of different styles of karate, so if you don’t like the first school you try, go ahead and find another one. Just like with many things in life, you might want to ask around for references. The good news is that most karate schools offer an introductory program, in which you can attend classes for a week, or up to a month, for free, or a very reduced rate.

Health Benefits Beyond Weight Loss

In addition to the mental and emotional benefits listed above, the list of physical benefits from exercise is huge. Your body and mind cannot operate at peak performance without regular physical movement; let that be your motivation. If you just think about exercise to lose weight and you don’t lose weight in the first few days you might see your exercise as a “failure”. On the other hand, if your goals are to have more energy and decrease stiffness – you will feel that and keep with it. Then the weight loss just comes naturally…

We are always looking for something new to try, please share your favorite exercise program.