Can You Skip Exercise and Still Lose Weight?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Weight loss. Chances are good that you've thought about losing weight at some point. Chances are even better that you've tried, whether through a quick diet or a new exercise program. Sometimes we find success, but for the vast majority, the success is short lived. It doesn't take long before we slip back into old habits and the decline in weight stops, leaving us more discouraged than ever. But why does it happen? Often, it's because we bite off more than we can chew. We can't maintain a new workout routine and a change in diet. It's overwhelming. So do we really have to do both? Or is it possible to lose weight without the workout? If you're struggling to drop a few pounds, take a look at how it might be possible to skip the exercise routine and still find success in your battle against the bulge.
The Role of Exercise
Exercise definitely has a role in our lives. Even without the weight loss aspect, when we consistently exercise we set ourselves up for stronger muscles, better balance, and longer lasting health in general. Exercise makes us feel good. It boosts our mood and our self-confidence. If you can squeeze exercise into your routine, even if it's just a little at a time, your overall health will be much better off both now and into the future.
Why Diet Matters
When it comes to losing weight, your diet is absolutely the most important thing. Why? Because exercise can only burn a certain number of calories. If you're constantly filling your body with junk, you won't be able to burn enough calories to make up the difference. But if you focus on eating high quality, low calorie foods, it's entirely possible to drop pounds without ever doing any exercise at all. Your body will still burn calories all day, and with a careful eye on your caloric intake, you can create a deficit that leads to weight loss. If you need to start slowly, focus solely on a good diet, and you'll be well on your way to weight loss and a healthier life.
A Combination Is Best
Even though it's possible to lose weight without exercise, the process may be faster if you combine a healthy diet with regular movement. The more we move, the more calories we burn. If you decide to include exercise into your routine, don't let up on the diet. The best results happen when diet is the number one priority, and exercise is a healthy addition to what we consume.
Do you have to jump into a weight loss program with all your energy and efforts? Do you have to eat a strict diet and work out harder than ever? No, you don't have to do either. Start with improving your diet, and you'll likely see an improvement in your health and weight. When you're ready, add exercise to maximize the results, live a healthier life, and feel better than ever in no time at all.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pasadena, Calif.