1 877 FIT-KWIK (348-5945)
December 2009
The reduced activity and sunlight that come with winter very often leave people feeling lethargic and depressed. These Winter Blues can be especially devastating for those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Instead of curling up on the couch and resigning yourself to apathy and obesity, you can use movement and exercise to fight back against the depression and weight gain that traditionally come with the winter season. You'll probably find that you enjoy the holidays much more, as well!
You Don't Need A Gym Membership
Many of those who suffer from weight gain in the winter use their inability to get to a gym as an excuse. Bad weather, high membership costs, icy roads, there are always excuses but none of them are valid reasons to keep you from feeling better this winter. You can get plenty of exercise and movement in your own neighborhood and in the comfort of your very own home.
Turn Up The Stereo
Whatever upbeat type of music you enjoy can be used to help you become more active. Every tap of your foot, every snap of your fingers burns more calories than just sitting quietly. Dance around the living room for a while and see just how much better and more alive you feel. Put on some John Phillips Souza and have the kids join in your personal parade. Anything is better than nothing. Swing your arms, kick up your heels, and have a little fun. And be sure to do it every day so that you will not lose your momentum.
Put Science To Work For You
Recent scientific research has shown that movement and vibration increase blood flow and burn more calories. As your heart rate increases, you will feel your blood sing through your veins, carrying away unwanted calories in the process. You can take advantage of this discovery with a weight loss method known as whole body vibration. Whole body vibration uses a vibration plate mounted on a vibration machine to stimulate involuntary muscle contractions in your body; thereby increasing your blood flow. This increased blood flow means calories are being burned as you sit and watch television or work on a computer.
Vibration machines are surprisingly affordable, easy to use, and stow conveniently in a closet or under the couch when not in use depending on the model. Simply turn on your whole body vibration machine and sit on the vibration plate as you watch a movie, read a book, or crochet a Christmas present for someone. As you relax, the whole body vibration machine will stimulate your muscles, increasing the rate of blood flow, burning more calories. No, you won't lose as much weight as if you were training for a marathon, but who wants to do that, anyway?
The long-term, consistent use of a whole body vibration machine can result in weight loss without damage to your joints, steeling yourself against bad weather, or paying exorbitant fees to join a gym that probably won't get used often enough to justify the cost anyway. The vibration plate is well padded and comfortable and the whole body vibration machine is an excellent way for new mothers, those who work out of their home, and disabled individuals to get their blood flowing, burn some calories, and emerge in spring happier, healthier, and ready to take on the world.