Obesity, U.S.A.

The defeat of famine is the goal of all successful societies. Unfortunately, triumph over famine often evolves into the other extreme — obesity.

Here’s what I mean: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 42% of U.S. adults are not just a bit overweight — but obese. That’s not an exaggeration or typing error. Four out of ten Americans are obese! But we aren’t alone, if that is any consolation. Several other developed nations have similar obesity problems.

(According to the CDC, overweight and obesity are both labels for ranges of weight that are greater than what is generally considered healthy for a given height. The terms also identify ranges of weight that have been shown to increase the likelihood of certain diseases and other health problems.)

A lack of exercise and over-eating have taken developed nations’ obesity rates higher and higher.

However, you may not be in that statistic. You may live a fitness lifestyle — and I hope you do — and maybe even have six-pack abs. That’s great. But what about those in the middle? Somewhere between the extremes of having six-pack abs to those whose belly hangs over his or her belt. In other words, you’re in that sweet spot, a place where most of us look trim and fit. For good health, actual six-packs, though admirable, aren’t essential. Yet firm abdominal muscles are required, along with the absence of thick layers of fat covering them.

Most of us know that carrying too much weight is unhealthy. But what if you are presently overweight or obese? What do you do to achieve a healthy bodyweight? Honestly, if it were easy, no one would be fat. The truth is, shaping-up requires lifestyle changes. Yet with a true desire to be healthy and fit, success is very attainable. Here is what you must do.

First, and most important, is to stop eating more food than you need. That sounds overly simple and obvious. But it is the heart of all weight loss methods. You must consistently consume fewer calories than your body requires for maintaining your current weight.

There are many ways to do it. Programs such as Weight Watchers have been successful for many. Or working with your doctor or a dietician might be the right path. Just beware of diet pills (example) or quick-fix promises. Some may have dangerous side-effects. Personally, I find hand-measurement for portion control eating is simple and effective, described here.

Second, you must consistently exercise. Exercise is a key, even though it is in second place. But “second place”? Don’t be surprised. If you don’t first get calorie intake under control, all the exercise in the world will not burn off the fat. So to succeed, it takes a comprehensive approach. Sure, if you consistently reduce calories, yet don’t bother exercising, yes, you will still lose weight. But without proper exercise, too, you will end up thinner — but flabby.

Here are two how-to-do-it places to get honest help . . .

Ab Exercise and a Trim Waistline

and, for beginners . . .

Beginning Weight Training

and . . .

For bodyweight only exercise ideas, go here. .

Stay healthy. Stay fit.

Logan

Senior Exercise Central

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Sincerely,

Logan Franklin
The Gray Iron Fitness Newsletter
www.senior-exercise-central.com