RE: Right on

I have to disagree with your points:

1) If you have an active job ('blue collar') then 2k is reasonable. Sure, if you pilot a desk all day, then 1.5k is probably more realistic, unless you work out a lot. Also, remember that different heights and builds change this quite a bit. A very lean me is 6'3" 200 lbs, where my step brother at the about the same height (6'4") is only lean if he gets down around 165 lbs. We are both athletic, but in different ways.

2) Yes, a fat person can do 50 minutes on an elliptical trainer every day. They will not have it ratcheted up all the way, but since they are larger, they get equal calorie burn with less speed and resistance. Sure, there are some that are so morbidly obese that they can no longer walk without becoming winded, but these are the extreme minority. For most, it is a matter of persistence of what you can do, not ability to do something extreme.

When advising my students (that want to lose weight outside of karate) on how to lose, I normally suggest that they watch their favorite show (to distract) on the tread mill, aim to be exhausted (high heart rate, heavy breathing) during the ending credits, and then bring the treadmill down a light pace for at least another 15 minutes. This plan normally takes some endurance training to reach, but most get there within a month, and the effects on their health is very noticeable.

As someone who struggles with weight, I find the most important thing is a lifestyle change, not just exercise or reduction of intake.

Star This to Save in Your Profile