We’re well into the new year and many of us have weight-loss as a new years resolution. Often times we are really good at working out for a few weeks into the new year, and then we’re back to normal again. If you want to get a few tips on some simple things you can do to succeed this year, you should have a look at the ones we’ve put together here. They may be familiar but they’re not always easy to remember, so a reminder is always a good thing.
Image by Justyna Furmanczyk
Maybe this is the year when you’ll make it!
Good luck!
Walk to the grocery store
If you live fairly close to the grocery store, walking is a great plan. Get a trolley bag to avoid having to carry the most heavy stuff and you’re all set to go. This is a great way to get some extra workout while doing something you need to get done anyway.
Eat less and more often
It may be hard to get used to this in the beginning, especially if you eat few and large means, but it’ll soon be worth it! Once you get used to eating smaller portions you’ll also feel full faster. Give it a week or so and you’ll notice a huge difference.
Make your own food
In general the food you’re making yourself is a lot healthier than all those take-aways and burger menus. Have your kids or husband/wife join in and you’ll get social while cooking. It’s cheaper and healthier and you’ll have a lot more control of what you’re eating.
Have healthy snacks available
Many struggle with loosing weight because they have too much chips, chocolate and unhealthy snacks available. Get rid of it all and cut up vegetables and fruit instead. Place it on your table and when you feel like having some snacks, go for the healthy option. It tastes good, it’s healthy and it’ll help you reach your goal weight. This is also a great habit to teach your children.
Drink water
Drinking water before and between meals is not only healthy but it’ll help you feel fuller as well. It’s a great option compared to beverages that have a lot of sugar and sweeteners and you’ll get used to it after just a few days. Squeeze some juice from a lemon or other citrus fruits if you want a bit more taste to it. Always keep a water bottle available as it also helps your from getting dehydrated and helps against headaches and various other symptoms.
Keep moving
Try to stay a bit more active instead of hanging out in front of the TV all afternoon. A good goal is to be on your feet for at least 30 minutes a day. This will help you loose weight and also prevent injuries related to sitting still too much at home or at work. Go for a walk, dance, swim, play with the kids or go to the gym. The options are many and if you’re good at keeping it varied it’ll be a lot more fun too!
Plan it!
Make a schedule that allows you to be more active. It’s easier to do it all regularly if you have a good plan as well. And if you have someone to walk or work out with, it’s easier to get started as well.
Walk the stairs
Choose the stairs instead of the elevator every time you can and you’ll get some great calorie burning going on as well. It may not seem as much to take the stairs a couple of times a day but it’s definitely a good habit and you will get results when you combine this with other things as well.
Stay positive and realistic
Do your best to stay happy. If you’re happy and positive it’ll be a lot more fun to do what it takes. Don’t let yourself get negative if there’s a week of struggling and remember that it’ll all be worth it in the end. You can’t expect to loose a lot every week, but if you manage to keep going you’ll get there!
Award yourself!
You should give yourself something extra when you reach certain goals you’ve set up. Buy a new CD, go to the movies or get some new clothes. If you’re able to follow your schedule and work out and eat healthy even when there are some tough days, it’s always good to have something to look forward to.
Image by Michal Zacharzewski
We hope these tips can help you a little bit further.
Good luck!
