Published May 1st 2023
Whether you’re looking to lose weight for a special occasion, a trip, or to make long-term health changes in your life, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. It can be tempting to dive headfirst into the latest exercise trend or fad diet, but the truth is that sustained weight loss requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses both diet and exercise. With that in mind, here are some important dos and don’ts for embarking on your weight loss journey.
Do Set Realistic Goals
Setting unrealistic goals is one of the biggest mistakes that people make when starting a weight loss journey. It’s important to remember that sustainable weight loss is a gradual process, and it’s unlikely you’ll see dramatic results overnight. Instead, set goals that are smaller and more achievable for yourself, allowing you to work towards and add to them over time. For example, aim to lose 1-2 pounds per week, or commit to exercising for half an hour per day, three days a week.
Don’t Just Rely on Exercise
Although exercise is an essential component of any weight loss plan, it’s vital not to rely on it as the sole means of losing weight. Ultimately, weight loss comes down to calories in versus calories out. This means that if you want to see results, you need to create a calorie deficit when it comes to your diet. This can be achieved through a combination of diet and exercise, but you’re likely to be disappointed with your progress if you focus on exercise alone.
Do Track Your Progress
Tracking your progress is an important part of any successful weight loss journey. This could be as simple as weighing yourself once a week or keeping a food diary to monitor your calorie intake. Seeing your progress over time can be a powerful motivator, and it can also help you identify areas where you may need to make adjustments to your plan.
Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
It’s natural to look to others for motivation and inspiration, but it’s important not to let yourself fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others when it comes to weight loss. Everybody has a different journey, and what works well for one person may not work for another. Instead, focus on your own progress and celebrate your successes along the way.
Do Consider the Role of Hormones
While your diet and a good exercise plan are the cornerstones of your weight loss efforts, it’s also important to consider the role of hormones like testosterone. Testosterone is an important hormone for both men and women, and low levels can make it harder to lose weight and build muscle. Great Green Wall has a detailed guide on balancing your testosterone levels naturally.
Don’t Cut Out Entire Food Groups
One of the biggest mistakes that you can make when trying to lose weight is cutting out entire food groups. Although being mindful of your calorie intake is crucial, it’s just as important to make sure that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs to function well. Instead of cutting entire food groups out, focus on eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Do Incorporate Strength Training
While cardio exercise is ideal for burning calories and improving your heart health, strength training is just as important for building lean muscle mass and boosting metabolism. Aim to incorporate strength training into your routine at least twice a week and focus on major muscle groups.
While weight loss can be a challenging journey, with the right strategies, you can achieve the goals you set out to.
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