Thursday, January 21, 2010

Build a Home Gym and Keep Your New Year's Exercise Resolution

As the holidays wind down, people everywhere are faced with those few extra pounds packed on as a result of extra sweets and massive meals. Luckily, the new year offers an excuse to get in shape. This common New Year's weight loss resolution can, however, seem like a difficult task. With the convenience of fast food options and the often inconvenience of making the trek to the gym, it's no wonder why you may feel like you can't succeed. Well, fear not. Losing weight on your own is as easy as changing your diet and getting your hands on a few pieces of exercise and fitness equipment.

The seemingly odd secret to weight loss is to eat. Of course, this is only true in moderation. You want to eat nutrient rich foods that will fuel your body and your workout. They'll keep you going, and when your workout is over, these nutrients will go to work rebuilding your muscles. Starving yourself will only force your body to "steal" nutrients from your muscles and your organs. This can lead to extremely serious health risks in the future and will actually slow your metabolism causing you to gain weight.

Drinking lots of water is also crucial. While H2O not only keeps you running on that treadmill, it also flushes out harmful toxins in your body that may be contributing to your weight. It can also help your muscles look fuller. Additionally, water makes your skin look and feel more hydrated when the extreme heat or cold sucks all the moisture from your skin.

A proper exercise routine is needed to help you stay trim, toned, energized, and in shape. While gyms are a great resource, with busy schedules, uncomfortable on-lookers, and high membership fees, it may not be the most convenient way to workout. Exercising at home is easier than ever with compact strength and cardio equipment and affordable free weights, resistance bands, or yoga and Pilates accessories.

If you have the space, a quality piece of home gym equipment is the ideal way to get in shape. Treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, rowing machines, and steppers get your heart pumping and your blood flowing with an intense cardiovascular workout. To tone and strengthen, special weight machines are available to build your upper body, lower body, abs, and back.

When space in your home just isn't available there are lots of products available to get you toned and healthy. Yoga and Pilates are both effective workouts that can be centered around your workout goals. All you need is a mat, a workout DVD, and necessary accessories such as blocks or straps, and you can begin working out in your living room, bedroom, dining room, or anywhere else you have the space! Exercise balls, resistance bands, medicine balls, and jump ropes are also great ways to exercise when space is an issue - they're also affordable to boot.

Just remember; losing weight doesn't have to be a chore. Find a workout you like and enjoy doing. Think of it as a treat for your body and mind; something you get to do at the end of the day. With diet and exercise, not only will you look better, but you'll feel better. So, when the ball drops at midnight, say goodbye to the past year and hello to a new you.

About the Author

Justin enjoys staying in shape by incorporating a home gym weight lifting program with adventure activities such as surfing, mountain biking and hiking.

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