Healthy Food Chart

One of our readers commented that people don't need to go to the gym to lose weight and although I agree with that person in principle, I’m wondering how realistic it is for the 87% of the population to exercise without a gym, personal training, yoga, or group training membership?

One rebuttal was that people could just go outside and be active, but again, what if that’s not a viable option? I can tell you that for about 6 months of the year in the North East it’s cold, wet, windy, and pretty slippery outside. I’m not sure how much consistent safe activity could actually take place during that half of the year? Plus, it’s difficult to set up a routine when it may rain for 4 days straight like we just experienced here in Boston.

Personally, I have no problem with people exercising in the park, going for a walk or run, or completing any other outdoor or home workout. From my experience, though, it seems to be more wishful thinking than anything else… the reason is that having a set workout routine is important since most people have a very limited amount of free time in their day and unless priorities are made and schedules are set, then exercise time will just get pushed off to tomorrow (or the next day, or the day after).

By having a workout partner, gym membership, personal trainer, or group instructor you’re making a commitment to someone other than yourself and that may be just what you need to stay on track on your weight loss program.