You’re not alone if you’ve gained weight recently. Instead, you’re part of a growing trend in America. More and more Americans are packing on the pounds, not just because people are eating more. Various factors influence weight gain, from lifestyle changes to increasingly sedentary lifestyles. Here’s a closer look at why you might carry a few extra pounds.
Diet Has Changed
One of the most significant changes in recent years is how people eat. In the past, most people cooked their meals from scratch using fresh ingredients. These days, however, people are much more likely to eat processed foods high in calories, fat, and sugar. People are also eating out more often than ever before. According to a study by the USDA, Americans now get most of their calories from restaurants, a massive increase from the previous years!
Less Active
In addition to changes in people’s diet, people are also becoming increasingly sedentary. Thanks to technology, people can now do many things without leaving their homes or even getting off the couch. People can work, shop, socialize, and entertain without a sweat. As a result, we’re burning fewer calories than we used to. Studies have shown that adults burn an average of 100 fewer calories per day than 50 years ago.
Stress
Chronic stress can also lead to weight gain. When people are stressed out, their bodies release cortisol, a hormone that tells people’s bodies to store fat. Cortisol also increases people’s appetite, leading them to eat more than they would if they were relaxed. So stress might be the culprit if you find yourself gaining weight even though you’re eating less and exercising more.
If you’ve gained weight recently, you’re not alone. Changes in your diet and lifestyle might’ve caused it. Various factors influence our waistlines, from eating processed foods to leading increasingly sedentary lives. However, there are ways you can deal with it and some fun ways to do that. Here are some of those ways.
Take a Dance Class
Dancing is a great way to work out because it’s so much fun! All classes are available, from Zumba to hip hop to ballroom dancing. And the best part is, you don’t even have to go to a studio. There are plenty of videos available online that you can follow in the comfort of your home. Just put on some music and start moving!
Do Off-road Sports
Another fun way to work out is to do off-road sports like hiking, biking, or kayaking. There are also fun power sports. An amateur one includes using a robust Can-Am to traverse the backwoods of North America. This sport is a great way to burn calories and get outdoors simultaneously. These activities are great because they make it easier to be active without realizing it. Plus, there’s nothing quite like being outdoors and getting in touch with nature.
Find a Workout Buddy
Finding a workout buddy is one of the best ways to make working out more enjoyable. That way, you can chat and catch up while you’re getting your sweat on. Not only will you be more likely to stick with your workout routine if you have someone to hold you accountable, but you’ll also have more fun doing it! Here are ways you can find a workout buddy:
Social Media
If you’re not on social media, it’s time to make an account, even if it’s just for this purpose. It’s one of the best ways to find workout partners because there are already so many online communities. You can also use apps like Meetup or Eventbrite to find local groups that do workouts together.
Ask Friends and Family
If you’re uncomfortable joining a group, try asking your friends and family members who are also trying to get fit. You can even set up regular workout dates and plan workouts together. Not only will you get more motivated, but you’ll also have more fun!
Join a Sports League
Joining a sports league is a great way to get in shape and meet new people. There are leagues for all sorts of sports, from softball to kickball to flag football. And the best part is, you don’t have to be super athletic to join—most leagues are just for fun and exercise, not competition.
Sing!
Interestingly enough, you can exercise your vocal cords simultaneously as you exercise your body. Studies have shown that singing is a great way to get fit, thanks to all the breathing involved. Plus, it’s fun to work out with others—grab some friends and start belting out your favorite tunes! Gaining weight is something that people will experience at one point in their life or another. However, many people are unaware of the various factors that can contribute to weight gain. Some of these include a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle, among others. If you’ve recently gained weight, don’t worry – there are ways that you can deal with it, including some fun ways to do it. By doing these things, you can have fun while getting fit.
