Sunday 15 February 2015

Healthy drinks for weight loss, and to kick start your day - two Youtube clips for you!

With last weeks emphasis on healthy foods and drinks, I checked out what was popular on Youtube and came up with these two short drinks blasts that will give some further advice on making the most of healthy drinks - check these out, and try them out as part of your health conscious beverage intake.

This clip below is less that four minutes in running time, and was published at the back end of 2013 and tells you about five drinks to help you lose weight!



Dr. Oz likes to watch what he drinks too, and in this clip here he talks about an early morning energy boost that uses real unprocessed fresh fruit and vegetable ingredients - the best there is! This clip runs for under six minutes and was published in late 2009 but remains highly relevant, and therefore recommended.



WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Friday 13 February 2015

Healthy beverages for healthy living.

All this week so far these Posts have concentrated on healthy eating, nutritional value, superfoods and such like. What about drinks - which have been covered before in this Blog, but here is another to close out the week. This also comes from 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8773481) and is written by Adrian I .Paval (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adrian_I_Paval) and is worth a read for some inspiration while keeping it good for you, and an insight to the benefits. You might be surprised.


It is important to drink healthy beverages for your overall health. Drinks like sodas are not good for you because they are filled with sugar and empty calories. There are a number of beverages that you can have that will satisfy your thirst so you won't have to drink the ones that aren't good for you.

Water is the most important drink for you. It cleanses your body of all toxins. Water also hydrates your body because most of us don't get enough water and are dehydrated. It is important to drink water every two hours to keep from dehydrating. Water is beneficial for your skin and kidneys. Water gives you clear skin and prevents wrinkles. It also flushes out your kidneys. Water also keeps you from developing blood clots that cause heart attacks.

If you don't want plain water, you can get flavoured water. This isn't the flavoured water that contains sugar. This water contains fruit. You can add lemon and lime to the water to give it flavor without the extra sugar or calories. It is also good for you. It has the same benefits as water except that you can drink water with a little flavor to it.

Another type of water you can get is coconut water. Coconut has a lot of health benefits. Coconut water lowers your blood pressure. In addition to lowering your blood pressure, it helps you lose weight. It also raises your metabolism. It aids in diabetes prevention. It helps prevent flu symptoms as well as other viruses. Coconut water has a lot of benefits for you so you can feel free to drink it.

Water isn't the only healthy drink you can have. If you have a taste for something else, you may have other healthy drinks. Coffee is a drink that is good for your overall health. It is good for lowering the risk of diseases. Coffee decreases your risk of developing Type II diabetes. Coffee's also a good way to lose fat. Ingredients for coffee help you lose weight so if you're a coffee drinker, continue to get your fix. To be on the safe side, drink black coffee. Don't add too many creams and sugars or it will not be good for you.

Smoothies are great drinks to have. With smoothies, you can have as many fruits and vegetables as you want. Smoothies are a great way to get the fruits and vegetables you need in your diet. If you don't like eating raw fruits and vegetables, you can turn them into smoothies. It has the same nutritional value as eating the fruits and vegetables. It has great health benefits and they are tasty.

Believe it or not, hot chocolate is good for you. Hot chocolate has the same health benefits as dark chocolate. The cocoa in hot chocolate has a lot of antioxidants in it. Cocoa helps lower your risk of high blood pressure as well as cardiovascular disease.

If you like to drink alcohol, you can actually have a glass of wine. Red wine is low in calories so you won't be getting too many calories by drinking a glass. Red wine lowers the risk of death as well as lowers your risk of getting some cancers. Needless to say, you need to drink it in moderation because it is alcohol.

Green tea has a lot of benefits. Green tea helps prevent diseases. It also reduces your risk of having a heart attack. Green tea is also powerful enough to prevent cancer and osteoporosis. Green tea is a diuretic so it can reduce swelling. It's also beneficial to your cholesterol. It can lower your cholesterol. It's also a great component for weight loss. Many people drink green tea to lose weight. It may also help with gas problems that you may have. Green tea is the best one to drink, but you can also drink other flavors of herbal tea because they have health benefits too.

Fruit and vegetable juices are great choices as long as they are made with 100% juice. They also need to be sugar free. Juice is a good way to get the fruits and vegetables that you need for the day. Make sure the juice you get doesn't contain a lot of calories. You need to consume these juices in moderation because even 100% juice can be high in calories.

Low fat milk is a great source of vitamin D and calcium. It's also beneficial for your teeth and bones. Since milk is high in protein, it's great for your muscles. Since milk has a lot of potassium, it can help lower your blood pressure. Drinking at least two cups a day is good to help you with weight loss.

If you don't like milk from a cow, you can drink soy milk. It's a great source of vitamins A, B, D, and E. It also doesn't have cholesterol. It's a great source of iron, zinc, and omega - 3 fatty acids that you need to survive. It's a great way to fight ageing. Soy milk aids in lowering cholesterol. It also helps with arthritis. It reduces your risk of heart disease. It also reduces your risk of getting breast and prostate cancer. There are a lot of health benefits to drinking soy milk.

WhyWeight, don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Superfoods to enhance your life.

Lots has been said more recently about 'Superfoods' and their incredible health benefits. There are many more Superfoods than those listed below, such as kale, blueberries, beetroot, almonds, avocado, lemons and broccoli but, in the below article found at 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8814538) written by Kent Ochiai (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Ochiai) there are listed below the Top 5 for the reasons given. Enjoy the read!


In the past few years there has been a strong interest in natural foods and getting away from processed foods that are increasingly causing health problems such as diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. But, what are superfoods? Superfoods are grown in the earth and have extraordinary nutrition and health benefits. They are nutrient rich natural foods that have a high content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. All parts of the body from the brain to the immune system are nourished through consuming these plant based foods. Superfoods should be consumed in raw and organic form to retain their high level of enzymes, which are broken down when cooked. Let's take a closer look at the top five superfoods.

Goji Berries
Packed with nutrients and orange-red in color, the Chinese have been growing and harvesting the goji berries for nearly 5000 years. The Chinese believe that this extraordinary fruit can significantly extend your life. Goji berries are also available in the United States, and grown in the Southwest desert regions. Goji berries boost immune function, stamina, strength, longevity, and improve vision. Their main function is to boost the body's natural healing process through its potent variety of nutrients. If you're using warfarin, or other blood thinners, you may want to consult your doctor first before consuming goji berries. As we age, HGH (Human Growth Hormone) decreases, causing the metabolism to slow down, and increase the appearance of aging. Goji berries are also known to stimulate HGH production, which is essential to longevity. A handful of dried goji berries can be consumed daily as part of a healthy diet.

Cacao
If this superfood sounds familiar, it is. The cacao bean is the source of all chocolate products. Cacao is the seed, or bean, encased within a fruit grown in Central and South America. Cacao trees grow well in tropical environments slightly below the equator. The Mayans and Aztecs held cacao as extremely precious, and traded it instead of gold as currency. Cacao has the highest level of antioxidants of any food group available. Antioxidants can prevent cell damage, age related health conditions, and illnesses. Cacao contains anandamide, and is only found in the cacao plant. Anandamide is known as the "bliss chemical", according to David Wolfe, and is a natural endorphin released after exercise or strenuous activity. Consuming cacao makes you feel good longer. Cacao also cleanses the cardiovascular system, by keeping the white blood cells and blood vessel walls from becoming sticky. For you chocolate lovers, 60-70% cacao content dark chocolate will have the most health benefits, while avoiding the bitter taste of chocolate above 70% cacao content.

Maca
Maca has been grown in the Andes mountains of South America for over 2,000 years. It is grown for its radish like root, and can be yellow or purple in color. It is nicknamed "Peruvian Ginseng." When harvested, it is dried, powdered, or cooked. Research has shown maca to increase fertility in animals. Maca is known for its properties that enhance strength, stamina, and sex drive. It also increases oxygen in the blood, reducing stress levels. Thyroid problems can be reduced by regular intake of maca. Maca can be consumed by simply adding the powder to shakes, smoothies, or any beverage. A teaspoon daily is the recommended dose. Rotating by taking a few days on and off is recommended.

Bee Products
Honey, bee pollen, and royal jelly are all products produced by bees. Bees produce honey as a food source for times when food is scarce, honey provides them with much needed energy. Honey has healing properties and is very easy to digest. It is commonly used for its medicinal properties. It's also popular as an alternative to sugar. A barista at Starbucks told me that honey takes away the bitter, acidic taste of certain coffees, giving it a smoother, richer taste. Bee pollen contains vitamin B9, and amino acids, and is a great source of protein, providing an energy boost. It is also loaded with antioxidants that increase longevity. Bee pollen is also known to increase strength, stamina, and energy levels. Royal jelly is a thick, milky substance that is fed exclusively to larvae that are to become queen bees. It is known for its powerful, stimulating effects, similar to caffeine intake, but it has no negative side effects. Bee products have so many health benefits that a complete article can be written on these products alone.

Spirulina
Spirulina is a blue green algae that grow in fresh water lakes, rivers, and streams. It is a basic food source for all marine life. Spirulina has a tremendous amount of nutrients, protein, vitamins, and antioxidants. It contains 60% protein in dried form, making it the most concentrated form of protein of any food known. The extremely high content of protein builds muscle, strength, and enhances endurance. The United Nations for the last 40 years, has been endorsing the global production of spirulina as the perfect food source for the future. It should be consumed in raw form, and not cooked. Spirulina can be added to drinks, smoothies, shakes, soups, salad dressings, and directly on food.

And there you have it, the Top 5 superfoods that can keep you healthy, increase longevity and energy levels, and keep you feeling great!

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Healthy foods on a budget.

Eating healthily doesn't needed to cost you an arm and a leg, and can be done on a modest budget and as such may be more affordable than you think. With this in mind I came across this read at 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8828443) that I thought would be of interest to all those claiming that healthy eating comes at a healthy price - well read here for more insight. Written by Blake Bowie (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Blake_Bowie) this short article may help dispel some myths about the subject.


If you are on a tight budget, finding healthy foods at the grocery store may seem like a challenge, but there are healthy and economical choices in every aisle of the store. As tempting as all that junk food out there may sound, it really can be cheaper to eat food prepared at home. And with a little imagination and experimenting with herbs and spices in the kitchen, it will taste better as well.

The first key to healthier eating is to have more healthy foods available to eat at home. So stop going to the drive-through and don't buy any more pre-packaged, over processed foods that you probably have in your kitchen now. Get yourself organised by creating a meal plan and a grocery list for the foods you need to prepare those meals. The next step is to go to your local grocery store and start buying whole foods that you can prepare at home with whatever kitchen resources you have there.

Increasing your consumption of whole foods, especially fruits and vegetables, will actually make your food selections in general much simpler. If the foods you are choosing contain more than 5 ingredients and include a lot of unfamiliar, unpronounceable items, you may want to reconsider buying them. Counting calories, carbs, or fat grams won't be as necessary when you select foods that are more a product of nature than a product of industry. Finding healthy foods to eat at the grocery store is pretty simple. They are found in the "fresh food" sections like the produce and refrigerated meat and fish departments. The frozen and dry aisles also contain good healthy foods, although there are many unhealthy distractions there as well.

Healthy foods you should have available at home to cook with include whole foods (food in its most natural state), fruits and vegetables, dairy products (low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese and eggs), seafood, lean cuts of pork, beef and chicken, naturally sweetened whole juices and lots of water.

The kind of foods to avoid include refined grains (white flour or white rice), refined white sugar, any form of corn syrup and anything out of a box that contains more than 5 ingredients.

Making the switch to eating healthy food does require a change in mindset, along with some imagination and preparation. It will help to make a weekly meal plan, and from that a good, organised grocery list to take to the store with you. This will help keep you focused and cut down on the number of trips you make to the grocery store.

-WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Wednesday 11 February 2015

Eat your way to slim, trim & healthy.

Already we are about six weeks in to 2015 and for some you may be well on the road to your new years fitness & health resolution, and others may have ditched it already! I came across this article that of course is very relevant if you did start 2015 off with every good intention, or not, but want to know more anyway about slimming down, weight loss and how you can help accomplish this through improved eating habits. Found at 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8864831) and written by Chritsine M. Esters (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christine_M_Esters) this is worth a quick read to ensure you are on track, or to get you back on it before the year runs away entirely.


This is the time of year where New Year's resolutions are on the tip of everyone's tongue. Of course, it is no secret that the number one New Year's resolution is to lose weight. Whether it is to drop 10 pounds, 20 pounds or 30 pounds, everyone seems to be upgrading their gym memberships, and ridding their kitchen of all their junk food. But, the truth is, no matter how much dieting and exercise you do, you still have to eat and stay healthy. So, how do you stick to your New Year's goals when your stomach is rumbling? Let me share a few tips with you that will leave your stomach full and your waist slim.

Detox - First things first, if you want to slim your middle, you need to cleanse and detox. Throughout 2014, and especially during the holidays, you probably accumulated a lot of toxins, heavy metals, and chemicals in your body that caused it to go out of whack. If you were feeling sluggish, tired, irritable or just not yourself, most likely your body was filled with toxins. So you want to cleanse your body and get rid of all those little culprits that cause you to have poor health and extra fat that you don't need.

Eat Healthier - I know this rule is simple. However, it can be hard to follow. If you are a busy gal on the go, it's very easy to grab that bag of potato chips and soda instead of reaching for celery and hummus. If you didn't raid your kitchen and rid it of all the junk food, now is the time to do so. You can replace your junk food with organic fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.

Skip Deprivation - I know it may seem counter intuitive to tell you to eat a big chunk of chocolate cake, especially since it has a load of calories in sugar, but, the truth is, you can still enjoy all your favourite foods and treats without worry. The key word here is moderation. If you want a piece of chocolate cake, by all means have a bite or two without worry or guilt. However, you should worry if you eat the whole cake by yourself. Here's a quick tip. If you really want the chocolate cake or any other sweet treat, invite a couple of your friends over and split the cake amongst you all.

Chew your food slowly - It's no secret that many people are fast eaters. And for good reason, food is so tasty! However, eating fast can wreak havoc on your digestive system as well as cause you to over eat. On average, it should take you at least 30 - 35 seconds to chew one bite of food. Your stomach needs time to send messages to your brain to let it know that you are full. However, when you chew your food quickly, you don't have time to let your stomach digest the food properly. Not to mention, you won't enjoy every morsel that enters your mouth. If you take an extra 5 - 10 minutes at the dinner table to chew your food, you will feel fuller and eat less. This can ensure you stay slim and healthy in the New Year. Try using chopsticks.

Eat Often - I know there are a lot of critics out there saying you should only eat once or twice a day if you are trying to lose weight, but, the truth is, if you are trying to lose weight, you need energy and food is energy. Think about a car, if a car doesn't have fuel, it simply won't go. If it's low on gas, it won't function properly. Your body acts the same way when you don't give it the food and energy it needs to perform at optimal health. Now, when I say eat often, I don't mean have a big feast every time you sit down to eat. You can eat about every 2 - 3 hours to boost your metabolism and give you energy. Throughout the day, you can feast on nutritious snacks like cashew nuts, Greek yogurt, and fresh vegetables and fruit. Then have a nutritious breakfast, lunch and dinner.

If you take the pressure off of losing weight, and focus on being healthy and happy, your waist will slim down in no time. However, follow these fun and simple health tips to stay healthy and slim in 2015 and beyond.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Healthy foods that pack a punch!

The important thing to consider when planning your healthy meal regime is that your healthy diet still needs to be able to sustain you through your busy day, and not just the 9-5 day either. You day may start a long time before 9:00am and end well after 5:00pm, so it is important to fuel your body with enough energy, crabs, protein and other essential nutrients to pack a punch and see you through your whole day, every day. With this in mind I sourced this through 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/5073751) written by Shauna Arthurs (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shauna_Arthurs) - the founder of Breathing Prosperity.


Many people talk about miracle foods, from magazine writers to modern-thinking doctors. As more and more of us become aware that our diet truly affects our health - for better or for worse - we must find new way of incorporating the awareness into our daily lives. As we all know, there is a big difference between knowing something and implementing it, and that difference can mean a healthy, vibrant life or a one-day, regretful 'should have.'

With today's rushed lifestyles, it can be difficult to get the healthy foods we need, even when we know what they are and have the best of intentions. For instance, if you knew there were ten foods that, if eaten daily, could you easily incorporate them into your daily diet? The truth is we often eat too infrequently and/or grab food on the run, and this leaves us bereft in the vitamins and minerals department, let alone giving us enough time to really eat the healthy, whole foods we need.

Following are some helpful guidelines to including some of the most commonly cited healthy foods into your diet.

Breakfast: Whole fruits are some of the healthiest foods you can eat, and the latest wisdom is that they should be eaten alone. This being said, combining them with otherwise less healthy breakfast foods, such as cereals or meal replacement shakes, is a great way to add a few servings of fruit. Consuming fruits whole rather than drinking juices adds fibre and other goodness, upping the health quotient while also slowing down the entry of natural fruit sugars into your body. Tips include: wash fruit very carefully to remove pesticides, or better yet buy organic fruit; support local farms as well as your health by buying fruit in season instead of items shipped hundreds of miles, and freeze extra to throw in your shakes and baking during the off-season. Also, try replacing your coffee with green tea, which has been shown to reduce cancer rates and boost immunity.

Lunch: One great way to get in the veggies you should be eating for optimum health is to eat plenty of salads. With or without lettuce, you can toss together a wide variety of cooked or raw vegetables, add a little virgin olive oil, fresh squeezed garlic and lemon juice (or use half your normal dressing and add these to supplement), and you've got a power-packed lunch. Colourful veggies, garlic and olive oil, as well as lemon, are all on the top health food list. You can also add in such things as nuts, seeds, chick peas or other legumes, etc., for additional healthy filler.

Dinner: What better way to get more veggies, and perhaps some valuable fresh ginger, than with an easy-to-make stir fry dish? You can even get in some extra garlic, as well as varieties of onion and mushrooms - both with enormous health benefits - on top of all the healthy vegetable options such as greens, broccoli and cauliflower, peppers, etc.. Use a little sesame oil instead of a large amount of a cheaper oil; it is very strong in flavor and a touch goes a long way.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Tuesday 10 February 2015

Healthy meals for busy people.

In today's world we are all very busy people - at work, at rest, at play, with our families and with friends . . . and in keeping fit, exercised and healthy. We are time poor and having the inclination to plan your diet out, watch what you eat (and drink!) can sometimes put the skids under your best laid plans to do the right by your weight loss goals. With this in mind, I came across this article on 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8866754) written by Morris Johnson (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Morris_Johnson) that might provide the advice & guidance you need.



Many would agree that healthy meals for busy individuals appear difficult. While the majority of us know that consuming healthy is a must, many are not mindful as to how this can be attained. I understand it is easier said than done however the pointers mentioned below ought to help you eat healthy and still have time to beat those deadlines or make those sales.

1. Do not skip breakfast
Believe what your mama said. Breakfast is the most important dish of the day. If you are hurrying, a healthy option is the ever dependable instant oatmeal. You just put the sachet in the microwave for 90 seconds and you will certainly have a semi-heavy as well as fibre-rich breakfast. Other healthy breakfast options are yogurt, banana or apple. OK, you could do the popular Starbucks coffee breakfast, but ensure you get hold of some bread. Ideally, your breakfast should be heavy so as to sustain your hectic morning particularly if you are not preparing to have in between treats (and you wound up having a late lunch).

2. That elusive lunch
Ensure that your lunch includes an excellent amount of protein. Recommended lunch which is not just healthy but also makes you full are sandwiches (tuna, chicken and egg), vegetable soups, green salads and rough bread. Pair these with healthy fruit juices like apple, orange or pineapple. Stay away from sweets specifically soft drinks as these will certainly just make you crave for sugar all day long. For your sweet tooth, why not have those fruit salad in little cans? Avoid fatty food too. Sometimes you get these from gravy, additional cheese or sauce.

3. Make time for afternoon tea
There is a long space between lunch and supper so try to get an afternoon snack. You could have crackers with low-fat filling or nuts. Another alternative is your protein bar. You can get these from most grocery stores. Include a cup of tea to make it an extremely healthy snack. Ideally do not get too hungry prior to supper as this would simply tempt you to over consume. It is necessary that you handle your cravings to stay clear of overindulging specifically in the evening time when you are least active.

4. Supper - save the very best for last
Many would advise to skip dinner, however for busy and working individuals that is the saddest way to end a day. After the long hours, tension at work, meetings and errands, all you want to do is to take pleasure in a rewarding end of day meal. The good news is supper could still be healthy. The secret is to consume a light dinner-- grilled salmon/chicken/beef, vegetables and salads. Attempt to pick the leanest part of the meat as fat would just beat the purpose of having a light supper. It is also a smart idea to include fibre in your dinner so get some fruits and veggies which are rich in fibre.

Keep in mind that the above are simply suggestions which hopefully could help the busy everyday individual eat healthy. Awareness that something might be done is essential. Enjoy your healthy and satisfying dishes.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

The benefits of eating healthy!

Carrying on with the healthy eating regime, there are of course a number of key factors in your life as to why you should eat healthily - weight control is the obvious one, but what about for combating illness, infection and disease, and then what about the benefits on your physical well being - skin, hair, eyes condition, and finally to give you the fuel to do all the things that make up your day . . . including keeping up with your exercise regime. In the below read, sourced through 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8860883) and written by Josef Bichler (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josef_Bichler) there is some further advice on the reasons why.


Giving your body the right type of food is paramount to your overall health. Healthy eating is not about sticking to strict nutrition facts or depriving yourself totally from the food you love. Rather, it is about feeling mentally and physically great and having good energy levels, all of which be achieved by learning nutrition basics and making better food choices. The benefits of eating healthy by making some changes are exceptional. Apart from maintaining health and functioning organs in your body, healthy eating provides a wide array of benefits.

Less Illness and More Health!
As the saying goes: You are what you eat, and you become what you eat, whatever we eat reflects on our body. Unhealthy processed and fast foods affect the normal functioning of our body systems and can lead to obesity and illness. Eating healthy provides all the required nutrients for the body which help in proper functioning of our body organs. By improving body functions you are enhancing your immune system, which further helps in protecting against many chronic illnesses. Staying active and energetic is part of a good diet which is the key to a healthy body. Eating a well balanced diet provides good nutrition and energy to continue a healthy function of the body, and for supporting healthy growth and development. When the energy requirements of the body are right, you stay active and energetic throughout the day.

Weight Control Is Best Through Your Diet
It is no secret that exercise and a healthy diet are the keys to losing weight and maintaining it. Exercise and continuing with the wrong food will not bring your weight down, although exercise has many other health benefits and is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Recent study has shown that half an hour of exercise will improve the brains "Plasticity". Plasticity in the brain is important for learning, memory, and motor skill conditions. This also strengthens connections between other cells and as well different brain cells. Weight loss is all about making the right food choices which will help you in losing weight and calories. Optimal body weight keeps you fit and healthy, and prevents you from many obesity related diseases. Some exercise with the right diet, less carbohydrates, processed food, and smaller portions on your plate will immediately bring your weight down.

Look Good and Feel Good
In today's lifestyle, where people are overtly conscious of the appearance, excessive weight will affect the good looks. Hence, weight control is one of the most important benefits of eating a healthy diet. Overeating and eating junk food can not only pack on kilos, it also disturbs your sleeping patterns. On the other hand just the opposite will happen; healthy food reduces stress and helps getting a good night's sleep. A restful sleep keeps your mind as well as body active ti face the next day with a better attitude. The first and most important step to make smarter food choices is to educate yourself about what your body needs. Reading the food nutritional labels and ingredients of all the food you eat, knowing about the nutritional content of the food product can help you decide whether a food or beverage fits in your eating plan. You can compare different food products and get to understand and knowing which one is good for your health and which is not!

All about this is knowing what to do. Education has become an arguable effective way to gain knowledge and being able to take control of your health. Your chances of success in your health will increase dramatically by following a lesson plan and getting the right information.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Monday 9 February 2015

Super foods to help your weight loss.

Continuing the theme of healthy diet, I came across this titled 'super foods' to boost your weight loss. Lots is talked about when referring to 'super foods', and this one concerns foods that will can help you in your everyday diet, readily available and inexpensive. Sourced at 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/807364) and written by Sondra Smith (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sondra_Smith) a personal trainer, and it a short read that might prompt you to change to make that change!


You can increase your body's natural fat burning process by eating/drinking moderate amounts of...

Green Tea has been called "the absolute miracle" for weight loss. Green tea has antioxidants called catechins that help to speed your metabolism. It also helps you to lower the bad LDL cholesterol.

Pears and Apples are great snacks. Both contain pectin fibre, which decreases blood-sugar levels. This helps portion control at meal time.

Apple Cider and Balsamic Vinegar helps to detoxify the liver which plays an important role in weight loss. Vinegar can also help control blood-sugar increase that occurs after you eat.

Grapefruit's phytochemicals reduce insulin levels, a process that may force your body to convert calories into energy rather than flab. Several studies has shown that grapefruit helps to lose weight.

Cinnamon has been proven to help control post-meal insulin spikes. Also, one USDA study showed that just a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon a day lowered the blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Oatmeal is high in fibre which makes a great meal for any time of the day, especially in the morning. Warm oatmeal with berries or fruit starts your "engine" in the morning. It increases your metabolism and has proven health benefits such as; lowers chances of heart disease and cancer, lowers bad LDL cholesterol. Also, oatmeal is a slow burning carbohydrate which gives you long lasting energy for work or working out. If you don't like oatmeal, high fibre cereal is a great alternative.

Add these super weight loss foods into your regular diet today!

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

How breakfast helps you lose weight!

It has been a while since this Blog has made mention to diet, eating and nutritional habits as part of your weight loss and fitness programme, so I thought it time to resurrect this subject given the importance it plays to your end goal. Kicking off with the most important meal of the day, here is an article sourced from 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8864006) and written by Christina Major (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christina_Major) - a Naturopathic Doctor and Holistic Nutritionist of Crystal Holistic Health Consulting.



We've heard for a long time that to lose weight, eat breakfast. It's very true: if you want to lose weight, eat breakfast.

The best way to eat is high protein and fat - low carb.

But most people choose high carb, low fat, low protein. That's one of the reasons why people gain weight, feel tired, can't get up the energy to go exercise, and just plain eat too much.

Why?

It's all in how breakfast makes you lose weight:

When you body obtains protein and fat, your metabolism recognises the high likelihood you just obtained lots of nutrients. It then works fast and efficiently to rebuild tissues, heal damage, and provide you with lots of energy and mental clarity.

A great breakfast for this would be egg in a pepper:

In a hollowed out pepper, add sauteed potatoes, onion, mushroom, and tomato. Mix with a little cheese as you pack the pepper. Top with 1 scrambled egg. Bake until egg is firm (about 20-30 minutes). This breakfast packs everything: high quality protein and fat, lots of nutrients, some healthy carbs and fibre, and flavor. Weight change over 1 year: -15lbs (6.8kgs)

Compare this to the commercialised breakfast: a bowl of cereal. Lots of processed carbs, low nutrient, poor nutrient replacement , high dairy and allergens. Weight change over 1 year: +23lbs (10.5kgs)

Yes, a real breakfast does take a little more work and time. But the results are worth it. Other side effects are readily apparent:
  • More morning energy
  • More afternoon energy
  • Lower hunger at lunch
  • Less cramping
  • Less bloating
It may have a health impact as well. Without all those added sugars in the morning, your blood glucose and insulin levels stay in a normal range. Now, if you have diabetes, this is very important.

Big changes in your blood sugar and insulin levels, such as from a bowl of cereal, cause problems:
  • Poor concentration
  • Sudden spikes in energy (think ADD kids)
  • Your pancreas works too hard
  • Your fat cells expand to take in the extra sugars
  • Your heart works overtime to move the hormones and sugars around
  • You get the sugar crash mid-morning
  • You are hungrier during the day, even at dinner
Pancakes, French toast, bagels, and all those other pastries are just begging to get you to eat more and more. Think about it. Are you full all morning after what you eat? Or do you crave more and more food after breakfast? Do you feel tired?

Choose breakfast, and choose a breakfast loaded with vegetables, quality protein, and low in processed foods (especially cereal). Your body will thank you.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Friday 6 February 2015

15 good reasons to bodyweight exercise!

The last two days have seen a little series on bodyweight exercise training and I have tried to outline some of the key benefits and features of bodyweight training as part of your own programme for a number of reasons that have been previously raised and are done so again below. In wrapping up, here are a host of reasons why you should give this ever increasingly popular exercise regime a go or at least combine it in some small way with what you might already be doing. Found at 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8849681) and written by John Rivers (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Rivers) it make s a lot of sense and is hard to refute. Take note therefore, and get into it!



When looking to increase strength and build muscle, most individuals turn to traditional weights. While these weights can be effective, they can also cause problems on your joints, tendons, and other body parts due to the strain your body undergoes when lifting.

Fortunately, there is a way to get weight training without the drawbacks of weights. Bodyweight training uses the body to help build muscle and increase strength with nothing, but, the weight of ones own body.

By using exercises that rely solely on bodily strength such as push-ups, squats and lunges, you can build amazing muscles, improve your endurance, and increase your strength.

Not entirely convinced?

Here are 15 reasons why you should train with bodyweight instead of weights.
  • It Saves You Money: Traditional weights and free weights cost money and may require extra equipment that could be very expensive. When using your own bodyweight for weight training and conditioning, you cut out the middle man, which keeps you from spending lots of money.
  • It's Gentler on Your Joints: Bodyweight exercises are kinder on the joints and they don't get battered as much as with traditional weight training. Because you're using your own body, you have a much more natural range of motion that cuts back on strain and stress.
  • It Increases Your Resistance: When you know how to properly perform bodyweight training exercises, you can increase your resistance and build stronger muscles. Exercises that really challenge your muscles like one arm push-ups, steep incline jumps and inverted rows can work wonders on your resistance.
  • It Builds Character: Bodyweight training requires a lot of patience and discipline, which are traits that translate well into your everyday life. When you teach yourself to wait patiently and maintain focus, you can do well in your relationships, jobs, and other aspects of your life.
  • You Can Gain (Good) Weight: As you progress with bodyweight exercises, you'll begin to gain muscle. As you gain muscle, the amount of weight you're lifting increases, giving you a gradual increase in difficulty which builds your endurance.
  • You Can Learn New Skills: Bodyweight training exercises are done using only the body. Many people don't have enough or any knowledge about these exercises. When you try bodyweight training, you're adding a new skill to your repertoire.
  • Lower Risk of Injuries: Bodyweight exercises are simpler than traditional weight training exercises, which means the risk of injury is much lower. If you're new to weight training of any kind, bodyweight training is the best kind to start with.
  • It's Customisable: Most weight and strength training have specific steps that you must follow. When doing bodyweight training, you can modify the exercises to your skill and ability level, making them the right exercises for you personally.
  • You Learn To Develop Better Control: Bodily control is a great skill to have as you move through your strength training. Bodyweight training allows you to build better awareness of your body and control over your actions.
  • All You Need Is Yourself: Bodyweight training is incredibly low maintenance, meaning it requires nothing, but, you to work and work well. You can add free weights or dumbbells if you like, but the best bodyweight training is done using only your body and the proper exercises.
  • It Can Be Done Anywhere: With bodyweight training, you don't have to be confined to the gym or to your home. You have the freedom to practise these exercises wherever you like, whether at the beach or at the park; it's all up to you.
  • It Builds a Great Physique: If you want a sculpted body there's no better way to achieve one than with bodyweight training. These exercises can actively work your abs, as well as the muscles in your back and upper chest, legs and butt to create a healthy, sculpted body.
  • You Really Can Get Stronger: Most people have trouble lifting their own bodyweight which makes bodyweight training an excellent exercise. As you learn to lift your own weight, you have the potential to gain muscle quickly, making you stronger all the time.
  • Anyone Can Do It: Not everyone can lift weights, but, they can learn to modify exercises used for bodyweight training. Sine this training type is customisable, it can be done by people of all ages.
  • It's Good For You: It may seem cliché, but, any type of exercise is good for you and your body. While you can enjoy the aesthetic benefits, such as, muscles and a lean physique, you can also enjoy a healthy heart, lungs, and other vital systems.
WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Can you build muscle with bodyweight exercises?

By now you have some questions arising from bodyweight training and the advice given in these recent Blog Posts. If so, this article will help shed some further light for you and perhaps answer a few questions. This one also came from 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8833961) and is written by John Rivers (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Rivers) and he is an independent Team Beachbody Coach, so read on.



Bodyweight exercises are workout techniques that are aimed at strength training, but, do not require lifting free weights.

Bodyweight training is #1 on the American College of Sports and Medicine's 2015 Fitness Trends list. This list is compiled on the opinions of highly trained and top fitness experts and professionals across the country, and, so their opinions are credible and valuable.

Because the exercises require only the body's own weight as resistance, these can be done anywhere and without any special equipment.

Bodyweight exercises are mainly categorised into 3 categories:
1. Calisthenics - these include your basic exercises that target the upper body, such as, push ups and pull-ups, and those that target the lower body such as lunges and squats. Calisthenics are great for improving endurance and stability, as well as, building muscles particularly in your chest, shoulders, and triceps.
2. Plyometrics - having originated from Russia about 40 years ago, plyometrics is a technique that involves conditioning the body with rapid muscle stretches and rapid shortening which aim to increase explosiveness and power. Plyometric exercises include depth jumps and depth drops, jump squats, burpees, Russian lunges, and jumping push ups. Designed mostly for amateur and professional athletes, plyometric training mimics movements in sports such as basketball, volleyball, tennis, football, and boxing.
3. Gymnastics - these involve more complex and technical exercises that aim to develop strength, flexibility, agility, balance, and coordination. Gymnastics often involve exercises performed on special equipment, such as, the balance beam, uneven bars, parallel bars, vault, pommel horse, and still rings.

Bodyweight Training vs. Weight Training
There's very limited research that compares bodyweight training against weight training, but, in those studies that were conducted, it has been found that bodyweight training offers greater benefits in the following areas:
  • More muscle activation. Bodyweight training requires moving your body instead of moving an object towards or away from your body, thus creating more muscle stimulus.
  • Increased neuromuscular activation. Because your body moves through space, there is additional feedback provided to your body and brain unlike when doing free weights.
  • Increase in bone mass.
  • Increase in power and strength.
  • Enhanced muscle coordination.
  • Noticeable improvements in general athletic performance, such as, jumping and sprinting.
  • Improved endurance and agility.
  • Lower risk of injuries. Because these training exercises are focused on the individuals own weight rather than using special equipments, there's lower risk of injuries, as long as proper precautions are observed.
It is important to note, however, that the point of this comparison is not to determine which one is better than the other, because one of them will always fall short on specific areas.

It's hard to replicate your bench and overhead presses with push ups alone, and the same goes for weight training exercises that aren't enough to give you all the benefits that bodyweight workouts can offer.

So, it is wise to design a training program that combines both routines in order to achieve the best results.

Are Bodyweight Exercises Enough To Build Muscles?
The bottom line is, if you're looking to obtain a nice physique, strengthen your muscles, and improve your athletic capabilities, bodyweight exercises are generally enough. They can be a good alternative to weight training if you don't have access to specialised gym equipments or if lifting bars doesn't suit your preferences.

However, you should realise that the basic exercises will not work forever because you need to challenge your muscles consistently and aim to go for a higher level of training as time goes by. Additionally, it still depends on your personal expectations regarding how big enough is actually "enough" for you. If you're in for building huge muscle mass, then a combination of the two will work better than just bodyweight workouts alone.

For the ladies and men who want to build lean muscle tone, bodyweight exercises are an excellent choice as they will never allow you to bulk, but, will instead build healthy muscle that has many health benefits.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Thursday 5 February 2015

Bodyweight exercise - an ideal way to get in shape!

As mentioned in a previous Post Bodyweight exercise straining offers many benefits - freedom of time, place, duration, weight and resistance and is relatively safe, inexpensive, can still be challenging and can be fun too which is always good! This article sourced from the usual place at 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/5684079) was written a few years back by Pete C. Jennings (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pete_C_Jennings) and remain relevant today, and can be easily incorporated in to your routine.



The Reason to Use Bodyweight Exercises?
The fitness world is a a complex mess of cushy gear and high priced gym memberships. With all of the data online it is really difficult to realize which exercise programs are the best. Well, I'm here to minimize the hoopla and aid you in going back to performing exercises the way it is meant to be.

Exercises using just your bodyweight are safe, challenging, and most of all...fun!

Experts agree that by simply employing just basic bodyweight movements, one can attain 95% of their conditioning potential (the rest for elite competitive athletes). So for most persons, undertaking bodyweight workouts persistently will get us in the very best shape of our body's potential.

Bodyweight Exercises for Body Fat Burning
Bodyweight exercises are wonderful for extra fat burning. Studies show that the very best way to maximize your extra fat burning is by undertaking brief, higher intensity sets of straightforward exercises. There is no need to lift heavy iron and increase chance of harm. The high intensity interval workouts can be as brief as 4-10 minutes for a complete workout but the extra fat burning effects last all day! This bodyweight exercising strategy increases your metabolic process into burning body fat throughout the day. You even burn fat in your sleep!

Body Fat Burning Tabata Exercises
The Tabata technique was invented by a Japanese scientist Dr. Izumi Tabata. His popular medical study studies revealed that carrying out a 20 sec high intensity exercise with 10 seconds rest for 4 minutes not only maximizes daily fat burning but increased cardio as well.

Bodyweight Exercises for Cardiovascular Endurance
Stroll into a big box gym at any onetime and you will find people fighting for the hamster wheels...I mean treadmills and elliptical machines. I chuckle at the idea of this every single time that I see it. Though jogging on a treadmill for 30 minutes or sometimes much longer 3-5 times a full week does have many heart rewards, it is time sucking and puts a whole lot of strain on your joints, knees, hips, and ankles.

These individuals will save a whole lot of time and maintain or exceed the healthful heart rewards by simply undertaking smaller high intensity interval training (HIIT) training sessions employing just bodyweight exercises. Your hips and knees will not only be happy, but the remainder of your entire body will as well as you will also be increasing your strength, muscle mass, and your extended term extra fat burning.

Bodyweight Exercises for Agility and Speed
Remarkable results in both quickness and agility will be obtained from making use of bodyweight exercises and a method called plyometrics. Plyometrics, or plyos for short, are the use of speedy muscle loading and contractions to train the body's neuromuscular system to react quickly. Plyometrics is a favored bodyweight workout technique of many coaches and athletes. Fantastic increases can be produced in running speed, vertical leap, reaction time, and throwing distance.

You realize now the reason I adore making use of bodyweight exercises to workout. They are adaptable, have a enormous number of health rewards, time conscious, and greatest of all... fun!

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Let your body be your weight!

Using your own body weight for training against and with can be as equally effective as training using weights in a gym. Body weight training however, gives you so much more flexibility and scope to go anywhere and do it on the cheap too, so with this in mind I sourced this article through 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8909363) and written by Phillip Schiefer (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phillip_J_Schiefer) - a certified personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist with the national academy of sports medicine.


With so many different styles of exercises workouts and fitness trends, it can become a challenge just to see what programs are really effective. With most programs, results will depend on how much effort is given to each exercise and by taking the time to become proficient at the basics. I have always been fascinated with bodyweight training for numerous reasons. The exercises work large muscle groups, the progressions are seemingly endless and the entire body can be strengthened with minimum equipment.

This style of training has become increasing more popular as of late. Exercises such as muscle ups, handstands and pistol (single leg) squats have become a staple in the routines of many. The exercises are effective, you can increase your mobility, flexibility, strength and balance by doing calisthenics (bodyweight exercises). The only problem is that most people want to learn the tricks and fancy moves without dedicating the time and effort to properly prepare and condition their bodies for such movements.

Take the handstand for example, you can find many pictures of people doing handstands. Most of them are learned without proper coaching or techniques, so the elbows may be bent, the back may be arched and the balancing aspect can't be controlled. Wrist flexibility and strength, along with shoulder and core stability must be properly developed prior to attempting a freestanding handstand. This usually isn't the case, therefore increasing the risk for injury. I treat training like advanced college classes, with prerequisites to proceed to the next level. There is no race to the finish line, take time to enjoy the journey and learn things about yourself along the way.

With minimal equipment, the world is your gym. Find a set of bars and pull yourself up. Find an unstable surface or ledge and work on your balancing. Get on the floor and bust out some push-ups, mountain climbers or V-ups. If you want more of a challenge, try suspension training. With suspension training, you are essentially using a pair of straps with handles that are hung from a secure post, which is overhead. You can grip the strap with your hands or place your feet in them for a plethora of exercises that vary in difficulty. Suspension training provides a wide array of exercises with one versatile and lightweight piece of equipment. You can work your entire body, in all three planes of motion. By placing your body in suspension, it is less stable, which means that your body has to create that stability. Hence, each exercise is engaging more muscle groups and strengthening your stabilizing muscles. The concept can be difficult to learn at first but the results are very rewarding. If you like the idea of suspension training but think it looks difficult, seek the help of a professional.

When executed correctly, any exercise can be effective. Bodyweight training is no different. No matter what equipment you use, the possibilities are limitless. If you fall down, try it again and come back stronger. Push your body to its limits. If you don't fail, you aren't trying hard enough.

WhyWeight, don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Wednesday 4 February 2015

Low-cost cardio workout for the home.

You don't have to go to the gym to get a good cardio workout, and there is plenty that can be done in the comfort of your own home, back yard, local park or beach or out in the countryside that will be as equally effective, and you'll be breathing lung fuels of clean fresh air. With this in mind - and the all important cost factor too - I found this on 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/7814593) written by Stuart Root (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Root) it continues some good advice.


An exercise regimen has to comprise of strength training, flexibility and fat reduction techniques. Using weights to improve muscle tone is all well and good, but if fat isn't burned, no amount of weight training will give you those toned abs you yearn for. Getting enrolled at a gym is one of the best ways to get a workout designed for your body type but you can also fill interim periods by following an all-round regimen at home.

Exercises don't need expensive equipment though those who can afford them shouldn't scrimp either. Rather than equipment, performing the right exercises is the key to attaining fitness and having a well-sculpted body. Below is a list of cardio workouts that cost only a few dollars but are followed by athletes and fitness buffs alike.

Low-impact workout
Low-impact exercises are great for beginners and people with back and knee problems. They don't strain the joints, but work with them to increase strength and reduce fat.
• Warm up for five minutes by doing simple stretches and step touches. This will get your heart rate going and loosen limbs.
Perform side lunges for two minutes. This consists of standing with legs wide apart and keeping the arms stretched out. Touch your left foot with your right arm, stand up, and touch your right foot with your left arm. Repeat the steps as fast as possible but slow down if you feel unnatural pain.
• Front kick lunges are another. Light weights can be used to strengthen the arms. Stand and bend slightly at the knees keeping elbows tucked in and fists loosely clenched. Kick with the right foot, flow back into a bent position and lunge with the left while keeping the left leg straight back. Touch the floor with the right hand to steady yourself. Repeat the exercise with the left foot and go through the entire sequence for five minutes.

High-impact workout
These are a few choices for high-impact workouts and if you're healthy enough to bear the strain, there's nothing like them. Remember, however, that these exercises can cause injury and shouldn't be performed by people suffering from joint and back problems. A quick consultation with your family doctor will help decide a regimen.
Jumping rope is one of the best ways to burn fat. It's such an effective cardio workout that even top athletes jump rope before proceeding with their usual exercise regimen. Beginners can start with a weighted rope to cut the air faster and progress to a lighter rope as strength and flexibility increase.
There's a technique when jumping rope that reduces strain on the joints. Lightly landing, keeping the knees slightly bent and jumping with a straight back should be practised. Wear cushioned shoes designed for training/running.
Jumping jacks are another medium- to high-impact exercise. Weights can be added for strength training. A set of 20 jumping jacks followed by burpees and back to jumping rope will give you a high impact, high intensity workout.
Burpees are full-body workouts that involve squats, front planks and more squats all at the same time. They're also a high intensity exercise. Beginners should try attempting 20 burpees and increase the number as strength is built.

There are many burpee variants you can incorporate into your high impact cardio workout. You can add a push up to the routine by performing one push up before moving into the plank position. Or you can use only one arm at a time when doing the push up and the plank.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Cardio exercise - good for the heart!

Cardio training has many benefits that extend beyond simple weight loss. There are benefits both inwardly and outwardly that help with your physical appearance, muscle toning, heart strengthening, mental and emotional state of mind and more besides that are described in more detail in the below 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/7992870) written by Jacques Delorme (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jacques_Delorme) - a youth fitness, motivation, exercise and nutrition Blogger and Writer. Read on for more.


Cardio is short for cardiovascular. This is the system that centers around the heart to transport blood that carries nutrients to various parts of the body. The proper name for this type of activity is aerobic exercise, exercise that requires a lot of oxygen during a prolonged time frame. Cardio exercise is very different from high intensity interval training that involves very fast movements in short bursts (30 seconds to a minute), a short rest and repeating in a cycle pattern. Cardio is done for much longer periods of time with or without rest depending on the fitness level of the individual. Activities include walking, running, cycling, swimming and even dancing.

Benefits of Cardio Exercise
The health benefits of cardio exercise are well-known and general exercise is highly recommended by doctors to help alleviate a number of conditions. Benefits include:
  • the added circulation of blood needed during this type of exercise, your heart will be stronger and your body's ability to handle heavier activities will increase
  • muscles will get a workout and that takes energy. Burning calories will help to lose weight in the form of fat
  • the release of endorphins will help combat stress, anxiety and depression
  • improve your complexion
  • reduce the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease
Types of Cardio Exercise
Low Impact - this type has very little impact which means it puts less stress on your joints. Activities include walking, cycling, swimming, yoga and Pilates. As a general rule, this type of exercise will not increase your heart rate as high and are generally classed as a slower paced workout. These are good for older individuals, people who are overweight or new to exercise and those recovering from injury.

High Impact - As the name suggests, you will put a strain on your body from plyometric exercises - forcing your body off the ground in a jumping motion. Activities include jogging, running, skipping and bounding like during an aerobics class. Impact is not bad for you unless it is done improperly. Good technique is essential to avoid joint damage. Research has shown that it can help to build bone density which can prevent or delay osteoporosis.

Workout Session Details
The American College of Sports Medicine recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate cardio exercise five days a week. If high intensity is your thing, do 20 minutes three days a week. For those looking to lose weight or to increase their fitness level, 30-60 minutes of moderate to high intensity activity five days a week would be better.

To help prevent injury, always warm up with a light jog and some dynamic stretching. A cool down involving a light jog and stretching will help to lower your heart rate and temperature and flush out lactic acid.

Deciding how hard to workout can be tough but a simple formula can be used to find your training zone. The most recommended training zone is 60-85% of your maximum heart rate. To calculate your range, use 220 - your age and multiply by 0.60 and 0.85 to get the lower and upper limits. For example, a 40 year-old person would have a heart rate training zone of 117 - 244 beats per minute.

While you doing cardio are exercise, take your heart rate by feeling the inside of your wrist or neck for 15 seconds and multiply by 4. Some sports watches have a heart rate monitor built-in to make it easier.

Regardless of the type of cardio exercise you choose, do it regularly and within your training zone to get the maximum benefit. A good training routine paired with an excellent diet will help you live a long and healthy life.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-