Exercise is a critical part of any diet plan. Exercise can help to improve your metabolism and maintain your weight loss. There are many other health related benefits of exercise as well: Increased flexibility, better balance, blood pressure control, improved strength, improved endurance and exercise even often helps to control stress.

Medifast is a proven, effective weight loss program that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates and very low in calories. In the first 2-3 weeks while on the program, it is recommended that you limit exercise until your body adjusts to the reduced caloric intake. If you are not already on an exercise program, do not begin one until after the first 3 weeks. However, if you are on an exercise program then it is recommended that you reduce the intensity and duration of your exercising by half. Once you begin your transition phase to a maintenance level, then you can increase the amount you exercise.

Exercise will tone and shape your body the way you want it to look, especially when combined with a diet plan. If you do reach a plateau, you should try adding in additional exercises to your regular plan. Medifast recommends that you exercise 30-45 minutes per day, 5 days a week with mild to moderate intensity. You should not do more than 45 minutes of vigorous exercise while on the Medifast 5 and 1 plan.

Before starting a new exercise regime, it is also a good idea to consult with your doctor first. Listen to your body and do not push beyond your limits. If you feel faint or dizzy, stop right away and take a rest before continuing. It is also very important to drink plenty of fluids. While you will drink plenty as part of the Medifast diet plan, you may find that you need to drink even more than normal on days that you exercise. Especially if it is a hot day.

Once you have been given the ‘all clear’ by your doctor to begin an exercise program, start slowly and gradually increase your activity level. One of the best ways to begin a program is to start walking. This is a low impact exercise that almost everyone can do. Once you’ve begun you can slowly increase the length of your walk as your body adjusts and the key is to exercise every day (5 days a week). You can either take several short walks or one longer one during the day and you will reap the benefits.

If walking is not your thing, there are literally hundreds of other activities you can try. Biking, stair climbing, hiking, weight training, aerobics, swimming, joining an exercise class and many others. Swimming is especially good because it is so easy on your joints. You may also want to avail yourself of the services of a personal trainer. With the guidance of a personal trainer you can establish a specialized and individualized exercise program and he or she can help with motivation as well. You may even find that you want to join a group class to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow weight loss aficionados.