What is Better: Working Out at Home or at the Gym?

A recent article on huffingtonpost.com highlighted celebrities who truly love to work out. Vanessa Hudgens, Matthew McConaughey, Minka Kelly and Michelle Obama cite exercise as the thing to beat stress, burn calories, clear the head, gain energy and boost a low mood. If you need all of these in your life, maybe it’s time to give exercise a try. The question is: do you stay at home or join a gym?

The answer depends on a few things but here are some factors to consider when deciding where to land. If cost or time is an issue then at home will be your best option, as it is free and you don’t have to drive anywhere. At home you can fit in a workout anytime of the day and you don’t have to be concerned with what you look like in public!

If you are someone who needs accountability and encouragement, a gym is a great place to find workout buddies who will keep you motivated and on track. A gym has a vast amount of equipment to work on and classes to take, which can bring a bit more variety to your exercise. At home you can get distracted with the TV, phone and the fridge, while at a gym there is more of a chance to be focused.

A recent press release from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that, “only one in five adults meet overall physical activity guidelines.” Physical activity is linked to long-term health. Wherever you decide to exercise, the bottom line is just to do it. If at any time during your efforts, you are halted with foot pain, don’t hesitate to contact Houston Foot Specialists in Houston, TX. Dr. Jeff Bowman can evaluate what is going on and provide the exact treatment you need to get back on track. Call (713) 467-8886 to make an appointment today.

©2013 Jeff Bowman., All Rights Reserved

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Walking & Weight Loss

It has been said that you can’t know a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes. Well, if you do walk a mile in someone’s shoes, you may be on your way to a better life and better health!

If you are a skeptic questioning how much walking really can do, keep reading and learn some valuable information. Managing your weight is going to happen with healthy eating and activity. The health benefits of regular exercise are many and walking is a great way to keep weight down and improve your overall health.

Walking works all of the muscles in your legs and feet and while this is going on, your circulation and cardiovascular endurance will be improving along the way. Your cholesterol levels and bone health will improve and you will reduce your risk for diabetes. If you walk outside you also boost your vitamin D intake, which can protect you from high blood pressure and osteoporosis.

To maximize weight loss through walking, you will need to find the time to be consistent. Walking at a moderate pace for 30 minutes a day is advised to lose weight at a healthy rate. Adding speed and endurance will then burn more calories.

If you are new to walking, set yourself up for success by starting out slow and work up to a pace and distance you are comfortable with. Wear a supportive pair of shoes to protect your feet and if you have any foot pain, stop and call Houston Foot Specialists for an evaluation. Dr. Jeff Bowman can identify the reason for your pain or any problem areas and provide the treatment or footwear advice you need. Make an appointment today by calling (713) 467-8886. Happy walking!

©2013 Jeff Bowman., All Rights Reserved