7 Habits of People Who Lost 20 Pounds or More (and Kept it Off)
How do they do it?
It’s a brave new world out there, one where most people understand the connection between healthy weight management and daily habits.
You want to lose more than a few pounds to feel better both physically and emotionally, but how do you get there? Consider seven healthy habits that people who have lost 20 plus pounds used and still use today.
1. Make healthy food your priority.
Weight loss is really a math game. You must burn more calories than you eat – at least 3,500 in fact to lose just one pound. One of the most productive ways to do this is by focusing on natural and healthy food choices. Swap out the fast food for homemade low-fat meals. Ditch the soda for water and make your dessert a piece of fruit instead of cake.
Eating healthy isn’t just about losing weight; you will feel physically stronger and less blogged down when you eat right. Start by making a few small choices like giving up those rich desserts and enjoying a piece of fruit, instead. Once you master one habit, move on to the next one.
4. Be Consistent with Exercise.
Being active is a big part of any healthy lifestyle. Not only does it burn calories, it builds muscle and improves flexibility, as well. Create a fitness strategy and stick with it. For most people that will mean at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day, five days a week. Plan your 30 minutes at the same time each day and it will quickly become a habit instead of a chore.
5. Pick Exercise routines that You Enjoy.
If you are not a runner, don’t try to be one. Walking is just as effective and the better option for most people. The point is to pick a fitness routine that engages you whether that means going to the gym before work each day or taking a 30-minute walk in the evening. Forcing yourself to exercise in a way that is inappropriate for your fitness level or that you just hate will lead to failure. If you are new to exercise, talk to your doctor about what routine are best for you.
6. Get a Buddy for Support.
Everything is better when you do it with someone else including changing bad habits to good ones. Find someone in your life, a friend at work or a spouse, perhaps, that wants to get healthy by your side. This means you have someone to talk to, compete against and who will encourage you when you feel like quitting.
7. Keep a Journal.
Whether it’s a personal blog or notebook you stuff in your pocket, get in the habit of writing things down. Keep track of everything you eat, your daily calories, how much water you drink and your exercise for the day. Use the journal to document your successes and frustrations, as well.
