5 Ways To Lose Weight

Whether you want to look just like you did during high school or just want to improve your quality of life, exercising is something that you can start doing today. In all honesty you don’t have to have a fancy gym membership or magical diet pill to lose weight. In reality the most important thing is your attitude and commitment to hard work. Losing weight and getting in shape takes time. In order to see noticeable results you’ll have to stick to your routine and be patient.

For many, one of the hardest parts about switching to a healthier lifestyle is taking the first step. If you’re looking to get your feet wet and start working toward your weight loss goal, here are 5 simple things that you can start doing today:

1. Drink more water – Even though it may not seem like a big deal, if you want to lose weight you need to consume lots of water. Drinking water is just plain good for your body, and has several benefits. One of the best parts about drinking water is that it can help you overcome hunger. When you feel hunger coming on, it is recommended that you drink a large glass of water. Often times the water will be enough to fill your stomach and take away the hunger you are feeling. If your body is still hungry, it will let you know. You should, however, give yourself at least 15 minutes after drinking water to see if the hunger subsides; that way your stomach will have time to communicate the message to your brain.
2. Don’t eat out for lunch – Another simple way to lose weight is to cut out fast food during lunch. Those with busy schedules understand just how easy it is to fall into the habit of eating out every day. Although it may be more convenient, it generally isn’t the best thing you can do for your help. One of the easiest ways to get over this habit is to plan ahead and make your lunches the night before. By shopping for the upcoming week and making your meals at home you can cut down unnecessary calories and maybe even save some money.
3. Start doing cardio – Cardio is and has always been a fantastic way to trim unwanted fat and get into shape. One thing to keep in mind with cardio is that having your heart rate stay in a certain range during exercise can have an impact on the results you see. For example if you are looking to burn fat you will be more efficient if you keep your heart rate between 115-130 beats per minute (BPM). On the other hand if you are looking to really work out your heart and build endurance then your target should be somewhere in the 160-180 BPM range.
4. Lift weights – One of the benefits of lifting weights is that it can help you accelerate your weight loss effort. Adding muscle mass will help you to burn more calories throughout the day and help you achieve the toned look you are after.
5. Ride a bike to work – If you live within a couple miles of your work and want to lose some weight, you may want to consider riding a bike instead of driving. The main idea behind this one is to get creative. Your work may be too far of a commute for you to ride a bike, but something as small as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking further away to get a little more exercise can have a big impact.

No matter what, remember that losing weight takes time. It is important to pace yourself and stay positive so that you don’t burn yourself out trying to look like Mr. Olympia after the first day. Healthy decisions made daily over several years will lead to a healthier, happier life.

Written by Micah, a freelance writer for TransformYou Arizona, a full-service health and wellness center based out of the Phoenix area.