Calories

My parents subscribe to a several magazines, most of which eventually wind up at my house in the recycling basket. I try to skim them for interesting articles before they're hauled to the recycle center, and I found an intriguing cover story in the August 17th issue of Time. According to their report, people who study the subject are concluding that exercise really doesn't have much to do with weight loss. In fact, heavy exercise may result in weight gains because it makes us hungrier, and most people tend to satisfy their hunger by scarfing down high-calorie snacks or beverages.


I was glad to read this since it confirmed something I'd already figured out on my own --- if I want to maintain my weight or lose a few pounds, it'll be accomplished mainly by watching my diet, not increasing my exercise level.


My primary form of exercise is walking three miles per day in as close to 45 minutes as I can make it. Walking at four miles per hour is fairly vigorous exercise, and at my age and weight, the activity will burn an average of 305 calories per day. To exercise off one pound, I have to walk approximately 35 miles without increasing my calorie intake. It can be done, but it isn't easy. There are many benefits to walking, but losing weight isn't among them.


I've reached a point where I feel guilty any day that I skip my walk, whether due to bad weather or travel, so I'll continue the routine, maybe even try to improve it. But I'll also continue my routine of counting the calories in the stuff I eat, and try to stay under 2200 a day, and under 1500 when I can.