by George Zhou

Created on: April 18, 2009   Last Updated: April 21, 2009

Many Americans are engaged in the epic battle against their very own weight. And it's so frustrating. It seems nearly impossible. But then you read something and find out that it is possible by exercising for hours a day and going on strict diets. You can't do what you want to do or indulge to your cravings. There seems to be no alternative for you except the hard way, a strict lifestyle. Well, actually, there are alternatives. It takes a little commitment but will be a great improvement for the deprived individual. So here are 10 simple, everyday tips that anyone can follow without adding more stress to their day!

1. Exercise- You're probably thinking, "I do this everyday!". Well, that might be true, but there are different ways to do exercise. You need to vary all types of exercise, and, most importantly, do it right. The two main types of exercise are anaerobic and cardio. Anaerobic involves what we call weight training. You can choose between heavy weights (strength training, which increases muscle mass and strength) and light weights (lightweight training, which will increase muscle tone and endurance). For a person trying to lose weight, it is better to do lightweight training because it will burn more fat and shape your muscles, giving them a more attractive shape. Strength training is okay for building lots of muscle, (if that is what you want) but it will burn less fat. Now when doing these exercises, you need to be aware of your form, so you don't get injured. Also, don't under-exercise yourself. You need to lift until you can't do a one more repetition. You also need to do sets to get the maximum benefits. Sets will allow you to work to your maximum, take some rest, and then work to your maximum again.

Now that's weight training. It's important but cardio training is important also, perhaps more important. Cardio is exercise that will stress your heart and lungs. It will burn lots of calories because it will tap into that energy reserve. Many people like to run because it is fun and accessible. Running is good but not the only type of cardio exercise, as some think. Playing sports is a great exercise too. It will seem like play, allow you to socialize, and let you burn fat. If you don't have anyone who would join you in playing sports, you can do things like work on a punching bag or swim. Ah, swimming. Swimming is one of the best exercises and is proven by studies to be 6 times more beneficial than running. If you have a pool nearby, I would definitely

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