Walking to Lose Weight-Day 18
Walking: Exercise or Activity?
Both obviously. Stated again, the Walking to Lose Weight philosophy endorses an active life as the easiest method for successful weight loss for those who have had weight problems over the long term – walking being central to that lifestyle.
Exercise?
Exercise has an imperative tone. Do me now! However many overweight people are so because they don’t “like” exercise. Possibly, like me, have never seen the relationship between regular exercise and well being, mental and creative achievement, feeling good. Exercise has a temporary or short term feel and may bring up mental images of jocks and eager beavers. Which we hate-or use to!
Activity?
Activity on the other hand is broader and not as sweaty sounding. More normal perhaps.
A minimum level of activity for a normally functioning man or woman would be 10,000 steps a day. There is an enormous range of ‘normal’ activity counted in this measurement. It includes your work or shopping day etc. It is easier to become aware of what is required to be active by counting daily steps.
The perspective of this blog is that your mental view of walking as a normal activity in addition to its role as a weight loss tool is integral to your long term success iin walking to lose weight.
Walking during a normal day, going on a walk – all exercise and activities. The gym, walking DVDs, the Wii Fit – exercise and activity. Listening to a book while walking to work, playing vigorous interactive TV games or gardening – exercise and activity.
