I can't lose weight without serious exercise

NotSoPerfectPam

Lots of people on MFP say they did better losing weight when they weren't working out intensely, just walking.

But for me, if I don't exercise at least 40 minutes and get my heart rate up pretty high, I can't stick to my diet. The exercise helps me reduce my cravings and stress eating, and drinking (alcohol).

Anyone else in the same boat?

TimothyFish

Well, I don't have a drinking problem, but other than that, I would say I'm in a similar boat. Besides which, research shows that exercise keep you young.

tomatoey

Yup - the elevated heart rate makes a difference for me too. I'll walk if I have to, but usually I have to do it for a stupidly long time to tire myself out.

NotSoPerfectPam

TimothyFish wrote: »

Well, I don't have a drinking problem, but other than that, I would say I'm in a similar boat. Besides which, research shows that exercise keep you young.

Well, I don't have a drinking problem, but exercise helps me avoid it completely!

katherine_startrek_fan

For me, exercise improves my mood and ability to feel satisfied after eating. Additionally, it improves my motivation and focus in all facets of my life. I can't imagine being successful long term in this journey without exercise!

Liftng4Lis

If exercise is reducing your stress, that right there is reason enough to keep doing it.

MscGray

Yes I am in the same boat as you. I recently took hiatus from logging and exercising (about a 4 month long break) and happily I was able to maintain my previous loss. Exercise just plain makes me feel better, have more energy, and allows me the chance to have a few or even several adult beverages with out sacrificing calories through out the week. I also feel like I only lose weight when exercise is part of the equation, and it does make me stick to the eating portion a little easier too.