Losing Weight Is Tough
You have probably been on not a few diets, quitting each time in frustration, only to try the next fad diet that came along. So you know from personal experience: losing weight is tough. But there are some weight loss strategies you can apply to make it a bit easier. The key is adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a sound weight-reduction program. This means changing your dietary habits and making regular exercise part of your daily routine.
Be Realistic With Your Goals
Set a short-term one and a long-term one. Be patient because fat doesn’t come off easily. If you need to lose a lot of weight, work on shedding more pounds at the start of your program then taper down after a month or two. Some health professionals caution against losing more than 5 pounds a week; others set lower limits. To keep the weight off, you would have to drop 3 pounds a week. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting any weight loss program.
The best way to track your progress is with photographs. Have somebody take a “before” picture of you. Wear a swimsuit so that you will clearly see the outline of your body and where the fat deposits are. If you look at your body in the mirror every day, it will be difficult to detect any weight loss.
Record your weight loss in a journal. On a weekly basis, keep track of your exercises, pounds lost, and measurements. It is best to do this on the same day every week to get an accurate picture of your progress.
Avoid The Temptation of Weighing Yourself Every Day
It’s possible for one’s weight to fluctuate from day to day. Once a week will do, preferably at the same time of day.
Doing your exercise routine at the same time of day is advisable, but you should be flexible. Another option is to split your workout into two or three equal portions and do them in one day as your schedule allows.
If you are following a weight-reduction plan with a partner or group, bear in mind that men and women have different metabolic rates. It’s usually higher in men so that they usually lose weight faster. At the same time, the metabolic rate also varies from individual to individual of the same sex.
Having a workout buddy is a great idea. As an alternative, you can join a runners club, or a weight-loss group (such as Weight Watchers). Exercising with a friend or a group helps keep you motivated.
Losing Weight Too Quickly Is Not Healthy
Chances are you’ll get it back just as quickly. But if you want to lose weight and keep it off permanently, there’s only one guaranteed way to do it – and that is through changing your lifestyle.
Remember that muscle is heavier than fat. When your bathroom scales seem to be telling you that you’re losing only a little weight, it’s simply because you have more muscle. If you want real proof, you only need to take a new picture and compare it with the previous one.
