Losing it

I was asked to do a weight loss blog by a few pals - after wondering 'am I even qualified to write one' to 'why would someone find this interesting', I finally wrote it down. People (some) of you asked for it! 

For most women having a baby is time when the extra kilos pile up and refuse to go. Also, well meaning family and friends don't help matters by telling you how Jessica Alba and Angelina Jolie were back to size 2 one month after having their babies. Size zero, Kareena Kapoor's, clothes (especially western wear) designed for dimensionally challenged women and flattering Facebook pics of pals and pals of pals (I am NOT voyeuristic - whats the point of having flattering pics if no one sees - please tell me) are other very discouraging factors. 

 

Ok I'll get to the point. Here's what helps in terms of exercise options when you finally decide to get back into those per-pregnancy jeans.

 

- Walking - Brisk walking is effective. Its not glamorous unless you have the privilege of doing it in jogger's park but it does the trick. By brisk I mean you should break into a sweat by round three at least. Ideally you should vary the pace for a proper cardio workout. The good part is, it is cheap and free, you don't need to go to a gym and you can push the baby's pram and do it too. Take an IPod or hear music on your phone and you will be hooked. Of course you need good weather to walk. Though my Mom beats the Delhi heat with the 'Mall Walk'. She does her evening walks in a clean air conditioned environment at the mall near her house:) Of course it takes nerves of steel not shop or hit the Barista post your walk. 

 

- Stair Climbing - Disclaimer - This is not for everyone. Can lead to knee injury. Best to consult your doctor if you have any kind of complaints. However, it worked like magic for me when I was trying to loose weight. Since I am of the 'Thunder Thighs Brigade' this was like the best workout for my lower body. Also if you come from the 'Walking is too easy' thought process this one feels like a workout especially if you are doing anything above 6 floors. To begin with, start by climbing down, its easier and you get used to the idea. Then start taking the stairs once or twice when you run errands. Soon you will get used to it and trust me the benefits are thunderous( (pun intended). The only drawback is my kid grew up watching me climb stairs and now he refuses to use the lift. I stay on the 11th floor and there is major sulking and lecture on wastage of resources (by seven year kid to me) every time I take the lift. 

 

- Yoga - This one is among my favorites but I can't really say it leads to instant and quick weight loss. I did Yoga religiously for six odd months and I think I was extremely healthy with no coughs, colds, migraines and imagined maladies (ban all those online medical sites I implore you) in that time. I think a routine of Pranayams especially 15 minutes of Kapalbharti for getting the tummy tucked followed by Suryanamaskar is a great way to start your day. Of course it is best done first thing and empty stomach. Tip: Shipa Shetty's yoga DVD is usually a good way to induce your better half to join your yoga session. Though I am sorry to say the inevitable comparisons of flat abs and great skin is not good for your self esteem.

 

  - Dancing - Amazing workout. The Bollywood 'Latkas and Jhatkas' make you burn those calories while you happily hum on to 'Sheela ki Jawani.' Most dance classes begin with a warmup and end with a cool down and Bollywood dance is like a cardio. Also you end up learning some dancing which stands you in good stead in ladies sangeets, family weddings and other such occasions. Only flipside is where I stay, all Bollywood dancing is done and taught by 15 to 18 year old's - so I occasionally feel a bit ancient. But it is totally worth it. If you want a toned tummy then belly dancing is another fun workout. Usually done by exotically named instructors, it makes you feel like a princess. Sigh refer Kartina Kaif 'Sheela Ki Jawani'.

 - Cycling - I don't do much of it. But I have family which is totally hooked to it. I am given to understand it is great for the abdominal muscles and I can vouch its great for lower body 'thunderous' parts. Also it is very eco-friendly and you get popular among young people - I had a bunch of kids cheering me on every time I went cycling. You can do it as a family activity. Unless you have family like mine which does it on weekends for 'modest' distances like 200 kms. 

 

  - Zumba - I love Zumba. It is the latest dance inspired fitness program where you move to the beats of your favorite music. In Zumba you get to try a variety of dance moves from Salsa, Merengue, Hip-Hop, Samba, Belly Dancing to Bollywood. The best part is you don't even need to know how to dance. Zumba dance moves are really simple and easy to follow and do, and everyone across age groups can do them. Its great for flat abs, toned glutes and toned leg and arm muscles and maximizes caloric output and fat burning.

 - Swimming - Is a very relaxing, full body workout which works very well for inch and weight loss. It is low intensity and also extremely stress releasing. If you stay 'up North' then nothing like swimming to beat the summer heat. 

Meanwhile here's Woody Allen to cheer us up - "When we lose twenty pounds... we may be losing the twenty best pounds we have! We may be losing the pounds that contain our genius, our humanity, our love and honesty."

Coming soon loosing it part 2 - Food to eat for which I have enlisted a very heath conscious foodie, who unlike me is not a disaster in the kitchen. I'll post some recipes and tips soon.