(ARA) - Americans gain weight over the winter for
several reasons. Some of the biggest culprits are fewer sunlight hours in
which to exercise, a biological urge to eat more to develop an insulating
layer of fat, and increased occurrences of winter illnesses, which can drain
energy. Additionally, busy schedules can cut into your normal exercise routine
and seasonal parties offer numerous opportunities for snacking.
Researchers also report that most people never take off the weight they gain
in winter. After several years, even small weight gains can add up to
significant amounts, severely increasing the risk of medical problems related
to obesity. This year, consider developing a physical fitness routine. An easy
way to start is by adding some in-home exercise equipment.
In spite of winter's weighty challenges, there are still some effective ways
to keep off the pounds. And it doesn't necessarily mean rushing off to buy a
costly health club membership. You can get health-club type results -- and may
even exercise more -- by working out in the comfort of your own home.
There's No Place Like Home
In fact, your home may be one of the best places to start a fitness
program because you don't have to worry about wintry travel hassles or
high monthly membership dues. And you don't have to spend a lot on home
exercise equipment or workout videotapes.
"For home exercise equipment that gives you a total body workout, you
can expect to pay between $150 to $300," says Bill Althoff, senior
sporting goods buyer at Fingerhut, a leading general merchandise
cataloger. "When you consider that health club membership dues can
average between $30 and $50 a month plus initiation fees, the right
pieces of equipment can quickly pay for themselves."
Althoff also notes that smaller pieces of equipment that focus on
specific areas of the body, such as a set of weights, may be even less
expensive, starting as low as $30.
Know What You Need
Before you start shopping, form a general idea of what type of equipment
you want. Consider, for example, what types of exercise you most enjoy.
You should also:
* Select equipment that meets your fitness goals. "If you're looking to
improve overall health, for example, you might want a treadmill that can
give your cardiovascular system a workout," Althoff said. "Similarly, if
you're looking to build muscle, you might want to consider a weight
set."
* Decide where you'll put the equipment. Experts advise setting up a
room or designating part of your home as your "workout area" for best
results. A home gym designed for a complete and effective workout can
fit into a relatively small room if you plan it right.
"Much of today's in-home exercise equipment is fairly compact and easily
disassembled," Althoff explained. "So you can stow the equipment in a
closet or, in some cases, under a bed when you're not using it."
Design a Program You Can Live With
While staying in shape doesn't mean you have to start an Olympic
training regimen, you do have to get moving. The U.S. Surgeon General
reports that working out for as little as 15 minutes a day can have
beneficial results, help to control weight, develop lean muscle and
reduce body fat.
As you start your fitness plan, avoid exercise burnout by setting
reasonable fitness goals. And help ensure that you'll be able to stick
to your workout plan by finding ways to incorporate exercise into your
schedule. Finally, be sure to consult your physician before beginning a
rigorous exercise program.
For more information on affordable home exercise equipment options,
visit the Fingerhut Web site at
www.fingerhut.com
EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional information, contact Chris Bauer at
Padilla Speer Beardsley Public Relations, (612) 872-3757, or Ben Sauko
at Fingerhut, (952) 932-3529.
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