Does it seem the pounds have added up over the years, slowly accumulating on your hips, thighs and belly?
Are you looking in the mirror not liking what you see? Do you feel stuck?
You may be thinking...
- I’ve gained too much weight to ever lose it all.
- I’m too old to make a change.
- I have no clue to do in the gym or anywhere else for that matter.
- I simply don't know where to start.
Well, the good news is that you can end this cycle of self destruction by simply focusing on one thing at a time. Rather than focusing on EVERYTHING you feel you should be doing, do yourself a favor and focus on one change and continue to practice this until you have it down pat. Once this has been accomplished, work on adding something new.
Strive to focus on all the positive things you ARE doing for yourself. Maybe you went for a walk, or passed up eating a food you normally would indulge in. Regardless of the behavior change, give yourself credit where credit is due! What you think about you bring about, so if you’re constantly thinking about all the positive things you are doing, you are more likely to keep doing them.
So, what are some changes or modifications to your lifestyle that you can make today?
Take every opportunity to exert more calories by increasing your physical activity. Park further away from the store when you go shopping. Take the stairs rather than the elevator. Go for a walk after dinner rather than plopping in front of the t.v. While watching t.v., do sit-ups, push-ups, and jumping jacks during the commercials or while watching your favorite show/movie/news. Begin to decrease your calorie consumption by eating fewer calories and by making healthier choices.
I always encourage my clients to record your progress in a notebook and refer back to it. You will be surprised how writing down your dietary intake and exercise will build your awareness, hold you accountable, and help you to stay consistent with making healthier choices both in your nutrition and physical activity.
Here are some practical ways to lose calories:
If you normally... Do this instead...
- Drink a mocha Drink plain coffee or tea (250 calories lost)
- Eat a snack from a vending machine Enjoy an apple and a few almonds (150 calories lost and feel satisfied longer)
- Go grocery shopping by yourself Ask the fittest friend or family member you know if you can go grocery shopping with them (calories that don't go in the shopping cart, don't go on your hips)
- Hit the snooze button in the AM Jump start your day with a brisk walk or join a gym and attend a fitness class. There are also many bootcamps you can sign-up for in a lot of areas in the country. Go online and check to see if there is one in your area!
Weight loss doesn't have to be overwhelming. Each challenge you conquer will take you one step closer to a healthier, fitter you. Small changes to your lifestyle over time will make all the difference, so start on one change today and go from there!
I'm always available to help – call or email me to get started.