What sports will help me work up a sweat?

Perspiration is the body's natural temperature regulating process that occurs during physical effort. When the temperature of the body increases, the sweat glands are activated and produce sweat. It streams on the skin, cools the body and evaporates with air and warmth.

Perspiration is a healthy and necessary reaction:
- It reduces the body's temperature
- It helps to flush out toxins
- It helps clean skin pores

It is also an indication of the effort made by the body, a marker of accomplishment for that effort.

Perspiration is mainly water. Perspiration's function is to lower the body's temperature when it gets too high, and water is the best way to do this. It is made up of 99% water, but also mineral salts (sodium), chlorine and lipids.

When you work up a sweat, your body eliminates salt which can increase water retention and the appearance of cellulite. You also eliminate toxins and burn calories. To eliminate more easily without getting dehydrated, remember to drink before, during and after your activity.

Sweating means water loss... but not fat loss!

When you lose water, you lose weight temporarily. The lost water weight is regained once your body is re-hydrated. Regular physical activity (like endurance sport) combined with a balanced diet is the way to lose weight.

SKIPPING ROPE
You thought this one was just for kids... But skipping rope is a great way to work up a sweat! A long-time favourite of boxers, skipping rope is an incredible cardio workout.

- Just 15 minutes skipping rope is equal to 30 minutes of jogging.
- You can burn up to 725 calories skipping rope for an hour.
Skipping rope also improves balance and body alignment. It will work your lower body while toning your arms, shoulders, back and abs.
You'll work up a sweat quickly and tone your glutes and thighs at the same time. How could you say no to that?

CYCLING
Work your heart, improve endurance and lung capacity, increase strength in your calves, thighs, glutes, back and abs with one single activity: cycling! It's a complete cardio activity that burns a maximum of calories and lets you work up a sweat. You'll sweat up to 1/3 of a litre in just one hour! Find the right pace for you - there's no need to force, you'll see results no matter how fast you go. Start slowly and gradually increase your pace. Pedal your way to better fitness!

RUNNING
Did you know that you can lose up to a litre of water - and burn around 900 calories - when you run for an hour? You also get a great cardio workout, increase your lung capacity and get rid of tension in the body. With all that, it's hard to find an excuse to not lace up! It might be tough going at first, but after a few runs, you'll be hooked. A little tip for motivation's sake: try running with your mp3 player. For those who prefer to run without leaving the house, invest in a treadmill. And don't forget to stretch after every run. It's a great way to wind down after your workout.