Cardio and Weightlifting a Good Exercise

Maintaining a regular exercise schedule will help you stay in shape as well -- especially challenging cardio activities like running. A 185-lb. person, for example, can burn more than 1,000 calories by running for one hour at eight minutes per mile. Even if you can't keep up that pace, you can still burn substantial calories through cardio, which helps maintain -- and sometimes decreases -- your weight. When you don't have time to work out, you can sneak in small bouts of exercise here and there by parking in the back of the mall parking lot or taking the stairs rather than the elevator.

Weightlifting isn't just for muscle-bound gym rats or college kids. Regardless of your strength, there's lifting you can do to tone your muscles. A toned body tends to look younger and healthier than one lacking muscle, and building muscle speeds your metabolism, which in turn fights weight gain. If you have no idea where to start, ask a fitness trainer for a free consultation. If you don't want to pay for a gym membership or buy expensive equipment, home exercises like push-ups and sit-ups will contribute to your cause.