Summer’s coming up, and it’s not too late to get your summer body ready! Losing weight is a hot topic for many people, and there are plenty of ways to go about it. Weight loss can be tough and everyone’s journey is different. From different diets to exercise regimes to complete lifestyle changes. Although everyone’s body is different, there are a few universal things that everyone on a weight loss journey should try out.
Whether you want to lose weight for your health or to feel good in your own skin, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some of the best tips and tricks to help you lose some pounds. Follow these tips and get started on your summer body on time!
Work on your diet
Your diet plays a huge role in weight loss and it’s essential that you eat right if you want to lose weight. There are plenty of diets out there that boast the ability to make you lose weight like keto, low carb, Atkins, and even veganism. Since diets can be hard for many people to stick to, it’s always a good idea to simply focus on eating clean. Eat a wide variety of colorful, nutrition-dense foods focusing on 50% fruit and vegetables, 25% whole grains, and 25% protein. If you’re new to healthier foods, start small, ease yourself into it, and work your way up.
Take some supplements
Although cleaning up your diet is key to weight loss, supplements can help you bridge the gap when time and resources are limited. There are many types of useful supplements that can help you with your weight loss journey. Supplements can help you with building muscle, burning stubborn fat, or getting enough vitamins and minerals. It’s important to do your research and find the best combination for your weight loss and fitness goals.
The most effective weight loss supplements are ones that help curb body fat, boost your metabolism, and boost your muscle mass. Vitamin B and D as well as Iron and Magnesium can help improve your results. Protein supplements can help keep you full, build muscle mass, and help you hit your target weight goal.
Drink plenty of liquids
A common mistake that many beginners make when trying to lose weight, is not drinking enough water. Water helps to flush out toxins from the body and keeps you hydrated and can help you in your weight loss journey. Drinking lots of water not only keeps your body hydrated but can help curb your appetite. Water with electrolytes from lemons, fresh fruit, or cucumbers works best, but plain water will do the trick too. A common technique is to carry around a water bottle with you all the time, to motivate you to drink more.
Get your body moving
Aside from diet, regular exercise is the second most important part of losing weight effectively. Regular exercise burns fats and calories and helps you lose weight. It boosts your circulation and improves your metabolism. There are plenty of ways to exercise that fit any level of experience, strength, and stamina.
If you’ve never done it before, exercising can seem pretty daunting. The trick to getting into it is to start small and work your way up, focusing on form and repetition rather than speed. If you’re not usually physically active, start easy and increase your intensity as you get stronger. Whether you’re hiking, doing yoga, or jogging, moving your body is the key to losing weight.
Go for weights instead of cardio
A recent trend in weight loss programs has shown a shift from strict cardio to more strength and weight training. Although cardio is more effective when done for longer, strength training is better in shorter, more intense time spans. When done correctly, weights and strengthening exercises burn more calories. They are also less harsh on the joints and knees than running. Lifting weights increases your muscle mass and boosts your metabolism so that you lose weight faster. If you’re looking to lose weight, instead of hopping on the treadmill for an hour, try bench pressing or deadlifting.
Get enough sleep
A great way to prepare your body and to keep it energized for successful weight loss is to get enough sleep. Studies have shown that lack of sleep and effective weight loss don’t often mix well. Not sleeping enough negatively affects your weight loss outlook. Not enough sleep makes you groggy and your mind foggy, and makes you more susceptible to unhealthy habits and diet. Since you can’t run on fumes, your body can’t burn calories as well on an empty battery. Make sure to get enough sleep to achieve your weight loss goals.
Track your progress
When embarking on a weight loss journey, it’s easy to get sidetracked and discouraged. A perceived lack of progress is the number 1 motivation killer when it comes to losing weight. To make sure you don’t lose speed and motivation on your weight loss journey, make a habit of tracking your progress. Keep a diary and note down your goals and plans for losing weight. Write down your progress and important milestones as well as motivational quotes and phrases to keep you motivated. Find what works for you and remember, there’s no wrong way or a too corny way to stay focused!
Use the buddy system
Last but not least, another great way to stay motivated to lose weight is to use the buddy system. There are many benefits to working out with a partner or in a group. Going through weight loss alone can be both mentally and physically challenging, and many people struggle with it.
With a partner, you’ll have someone to rely on for support, understanding, and accountability. Exercising with a friend can help you push harder and achieve better results than when you work alone. You’re more likely to push through a tough workout, a weight loss program, or a diet when you have a partner.
So there you have it! With these tips and tricks under your belt, you’re ready to start your weight loss journey the right way! For starters, work on your diet, supplement what you need where you can, and remember to drink plenty of water. Get your body moving with regular exercise and try focusing more on weights instead of cold, hard cardio. Remember to get enough sleep to fuel your body. Stay motivated by tracking your progress and using the buddy system and remember not to give up and keep going!
