Steps to Losing Weight and Keeping It Off

What is the true key to weight loss? Is it knowing exactly what to eat? How far to run? How to mix HCG? Or is it knowing how to control the urges that force us to eat when were stressed out? The truth is, if you knew the exact key how to safely loss the exact amount of weight you wanted you could package your secrets and sell them to the highest bidder. Nobody exactly knows the best way to lose weight. Sure, the good ol’ “eat well and exercise” works well, but without proper planning it won’t keep the weight off. And with the New Year’s resolution season coming up, its worth taking a look at the best ways to not only lose your target weight but also keep it off.

Any good weight loss plan starts with both eating well and finding an exercise program that works for you. The worst thing you can do is start your diet by saying “I’m going to eat nothing but veggies and brown rice and I’m going to run three miles every day”. That’s just not going to happen on a consistent basis. Aiming high is a great idea, except that it will burn you out within a few days.

Instead of going for the gold right away (no pun intended), begin by making small goals for yourself. Start out by walking 30 minutes a day four days a week. Then, after a few weeks, maybe run 2 days a week and walk another three. You can add some calisthenics in after a few weeks. Always check your heart rate and make sure you stay hydrated no matter what you do. The same moderation should be used when trying to map out a meal plan to go along with your exercise. First, think about portion sizes. American’s have a tendency to eat portion sizes that dwarf those in the rest of the world. Steak serving sizes should only be about the size of a playing card, not the size of a small truck. Instead of loading your plates with carbs such as pasta and potatoes, instead start eating vegetables with lemon and olive oil. Instead of soda drink natural juices or water. If you must, a diet soda can be utilized.

Next, set realistic goals for yourself. If proper diet and exercise is utilized you can expect to lose 2-4 pounds a week. After a few weeks you might see a drop off in the amount lost, but that’s only natural. Maybe start some weight training to get some definition. The key is making it fun. If you don’t enjoy the process and have some fun it you’re going to slip. That’s how you gain the weight back.