You deserve more than quick fixes or temporary solutions. At Structure House, you’ll receive personalized guidance to learn exercise tips tailored to your weight loss goals.
We all know that regular exercise is important for good health, but what can you do when exercise hurts (and not in a good way)?
If you’re overweight, you may not be able to do the same exercises as others – and you may not feel particularly comfortable at the gym. But that doesn’t mean exercise just isn’t for you. Here are a few tips for stay physically active without dealing with too much pain or discomfort:
How to Start Working Out If I'm Overweight?
We all know that regular exercise is important for good health, but what can you do when exercise hurts (and not in a good way)?
If you’re overweight, you may not be able to do the same exercises as others – and you may not feel particularly comfortable at the gym. But that doesn’t mean exercise just isn’t for you. Explore a few tips below for stay physically active without dealing with too much pain or discomfort.
Try New Exercise Equipment
Walking, biking and swimming are great standard exercises, but they may be hard on your knees, joints and your self-esteem (in the case of a public swimming pool). There are a number of other options that can make exercise more comfortable, such as recumbent bikes and cross trainers, which offer more support than other machines. Pedal exercisers are another option if getting on and off the bike proves difficult.
Get Creative
Do you assume that fitness classes aren’t for you? Have you ever tried Pilates or water aerobics? Both are low impact, fun ways to get in shape. There are even low-impact forms of martial arts such as chair karate that can be beneficial. The more alternatives you try, the more likely you are to find one that suits your needs and interests.
Buy Balls and Bands
Exercise balls and resistance bands are inexpensive and you can use them on your own schedule, in the privacy of your own home. An exercise ball can improve your balance, stability and abdominal strength, while resistance bands use your own weight to help you build muscle tone and strength. If you need suggestions for specific exercises to try, there are videos and articles that can help.
Find a Personal Trainer
Although it can get costly, personal training is a great way to find the right exercises for your individual needs. Personal trainers can help you navigate gym equipment, learn proper technique, and find alternatives to exercises that put too much strain on your muscles and joints.
Seek Residential Weight Loss Treatment
When you start formal weight loss treatment, you get the support of other members as well as a helpful dose of structure and accountability in your fitness routine. Residential weight loss treatment has the added benefit of getting you away from your home environment and routine and immersed in a setting where your health is the primary focus. Residential weight loss treatment also offers a wide selection of fitness equipment and classes designed specifically for individuals who are overweight or obese.
Exercise is a gift you can give yourself at any weight. If certain movements hurt, put those off for awhile and focus on others. And, of course, always consult with a physician, fitness specialist or weight loss program before embarking on a new fitness regimen.
