Is Your Body Saying “No” to Weight Loss?

More than 68 percent of the U.S. population is overweight or obese. Many experts believe this phenomenon is of epidemic proportions and that it is the biggest health risk facing Americans.

Being overweight can lead to serious diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, gall bladder disease, and even some forms of cancer. It can also negatively affect energy levels and place excessive stress on all joints contributing to chronic back pain, osteoarthritis, and joint pain.

Weight-loss plans must consist of both diet and exercise, however, your body may be physically telling you no to the exercise component. You may have weak muscles, problems with balance, or arthritis pain in your knees, hips, or spine, which makes it difficult to begin a traditional weight-loss exercise program.

So, where do you start?

Here are some things to try and get moving in the right direction:

  • Go to a store or mall where you can use a shopping cart to help with balance while walking for 10-20 minutes.
  • Practice sitting from a standing position without using your hands to strengthen your hips and knee muscles; you may need to add a pillow to the seat.
  • Avoid running and instead try gentler movements that do not put pressure on the joints such as swimming.
  • If you aren’t a swimmer, use a community pool to do exercises or walk in the water; it is often an easier place to get moving.
  • Use a seated bike or stepper, which allows you to work for longer periods of time.
  • Perform resistive exercises; start light on weight and higher on the repetitions aiming to do three sets of 10 repetitions.

Evidence shows that strengthening your muscles can help you improve balance, decrease arthritis, and exercise for longer periods of time. If you have tried some of these tips and still can’t get going with a weight-loss program because of pain or just because it seems too daunting, a physical therapist can help set goals, begin, advance, and maintain an exercise program customized to your abilities.

Sheltering Arms Institute physical therapists are experts in exercise testing, prescription, and implementation to help you exercise safely and effectively. Call (804) 764-1000 or contact us on our website to learn more about the services available to you at Sheltering Arms Institute.

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Floor Transfers: Why They’re Important

Floor transfers, the ability to get down and rise from the floor without assistance, are an indicator of an individual’s functional independence, quality of life, and a predictor of longevity and overall health. This seemingly simple movement represents a complex integration of strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination that is closely linked to one’s overall functional mobility.

Heart Healthy Foods

Five Foods That Promote Heart Health

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among men, women, and most ethnic groups in the United States. While some risk factors—such as age, gender, and family history—are beyond our control, many other factors can be managed through lifestyle choices. Diet, physical activity, stress management, and avoiding tobacco all play a critical role in supporting heart health.

Coping With Seasonal Depression

Winter can take a toll on your mood and energy, especially as daylight hours decrease. Learn how understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and using a few practical strategies can support your mental health throughout the colder months.

How Exercise Improves Brain Health

It’s a new year, which for many of us means setting fitness goals—but exercise isn’t just about building muscle or improving heart health. Staying active is also one of the best ways to support your brain. Regular movement can improve memory, decision-making, and overall cognitive function, which is especially important for reducing the risk of memory loss or dementia.

Universal Cuffs

Adaptive Equipment Following Spinal Cord Injury

Globally, there are more than 15 million people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI can often limit your physical capacity to perform certain tasks; however, with modifications and the integration of various pieces of adaptive equipment, you can continue to be independent and engage in meaningful daily activities. Below are the top 3 recommended adaptive equipment devices* for individuals with spinal cord injury.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.