10 Tips to Keep the Weight Off
Losing the weight is only winning a battle, keeping it off is winning the war. The major issue with maintaining weight loss is that people often view a diet as short term instead of a long term, permanent lifestyle change. So instead of embracing the new habits that let them lose the weight, people go back to the old habits that had them over weight and unhealthy to begin with. It then becomes a vicious cycle. To help with that we’ve gathered 1o tips to not only help you lose the weight, but keep it off as well.
1. Accept that weight management is an achievable goal
If you approach weight management with the concept that small steps will add up to make a big difference over time, then the idea of losing weight does not seem so complex.
2. Make a plan to succeed
Identify 10 food items that you currently purchase that you know are bad for you and that you can live without. Make a consistent plan to start eliminating 2 of these items each week from your grocery list.
3. Contact a nutritionist and make an appointment
Every individual should have a customized plan tailored to their age, weight, height, metabolism and activity level. This plan is best created with a professional who will dedicate time to working with you one on one.
4. Schedule regular exercise
Make it a goal to double the distance that you walk each day until you are walking at least 30 minutes each day.
5. Set realistic goals
Rapid weight loss that can’t be sustained only results in frustration. The goal should be to lose approximately 2 pounds every week. Depending on how much you choose to lose, over the course of a year this would result in a substantial amount of weight loss.
6. Develop a support system
It is important to join a support group and to develop a network of individuals who are committed to your success. Some of the most accessible groups exist at Weight Watchers, Beachbody.com and faith-based organizations. Inquire within your health plan for resources that also may be able to help you maintain your goals.
7. Weigh in regularly
It is important to check your weight regularly. Every week you should check your weight in the morning before you get dressed on the same scale.
8. Positive Reinforcement
Feel good about the success that you are making and provide a small reward for yourself each week that is not food related. Some excellent suggestions include a manicure, a massage, taking a scenic walk, purchasing a new CD or new clothing item.
9. Congratulate yourself
Weight loss is similar to a marathon that is not always won by leaps and bounds. The goal is to stay focused on your goal even if there are small setbacks from time to time.
10. Love Yourself
While absolute weight loss is a goal, it is important to love yourself no matter what your size may be.
Weight Management Wrap Up
These are some great tips to live by. For me step #3 resonates with me since it has never occurred to me to meet with a nutritionist for a consult about my weight loss goals. A personal trainer – yes. A nutritionist – not so much.
What do you think about the advice? Is there anything new here that you think will make a difference in your weight loss goals? What, if anything, can you take away form these steps?
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