Originally published August 17 2005
Getting in shape for your wedding
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Two authors provide different methods for shaping up for your nuptials.
He's popped the question, you've set the date.
Weddings, like high school reunions, are occasions that motivate women to get in shape.
Granted, it's not for health reasons, but a prenuptial workout program done wisely can sometimes lead a bride to make permanent lifestyle changes long after the honeymoon is over.
Two books, The Complete Bride's Workout Guide by Bonnie Marano (New Page, $14.99) and The Body Sculpting Bible for Brides by James Villepigue et al (healthyliving books, $15.95) try to offer help.
The former provides a program a year ahead of the wedding day, while the latter focuses on programs lasting four to 12 weeks.
Both espouse strength-training, cardio conditioning and stretching combined with basic advice on healthy eating.
And the authors do a fair job of showing strength-training exercises, especially those that firm up areas such as the arms, shoulders, chest, abs and upper back.
These body parts, particularly the arms and shoulders, are exposed in many wedding gown styles, so it's understandable to focus on them.
But the authors don't offer enough specifics on how to maintain and vary cardio routines, a critical consideration for brides who are trying to lose weight.
A sensible weight-loss program should always include daily cardio activity with strength-training most days of the week.
It's asking a lot from your body to drop four dress sizes when your wedding day is four months away.
Sit up straight if you're slumping in your chair.
Poor posture can ruin the look of the most expensive and beautiful wedding dress.
When selecting an activity, avoid obsessing on which exercise burns more calories.
Doing too much too soon can increase your risks of injury.
�Avoid starving yourself or seeking refuge in less-healthy comfort foods.
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