My 7 Keys To Weight Loss

I thought I would share my thoughts on a topic I get asked about alot and something that many women struggle with on a daily basis. How can I lose weight and keep it off? I'm not a nutritionist or trainer, but I have successfully lost and kept off 40 lbs in the past seven years. I hope this is helpful !

Keys To Losing and Keeping Off the Weight:

1. Know the importance of your diet

I am a firm believe that the foundation of any weight loss plan is your diet. You can exercise for days and days, but if you are not putting the right amount of the right things into your body, it is all for nothing. Keep close track of your calories and aim to stay in a certain range each day.

2. Keep it healthy and whole

It's repetitive of any healthy eating plan you've heard of but whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and veggies need to be the basis of your diet. Not only are these whole foods great for weight loss, but good for the health of your entire body.

3. Weights are your friend

It is such a myth that if you lift heavy weights that you will bulk up and look manly. I've tried losing weight countless times. But it wasn't until I started weight training that I saw significant results.

4. Give yourself a break

If you are following an intense diet and exercise regimen, it is absolutely necessary to give yourself at least 1 day a week to rest your body. Not only will this give your body a chance to heal and replenish, but will give your mind a chance to relax as well. Also allow yourself a piece of pizza or a glass of wine- something that you love to eat, but don't get to do so on your diet. It will keep you sane! It also allows your body to crave healthy food again. It's not realistic to cut out junk food from your life entirely. That's the quickest way to fall off the bandwagon!

5. Add variety to your routine

I am a creature of habit. So this was probably one of the hardest things for me to realize. It is ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY to change up your diet and exercise ever so often. This is most important because it keeps your body from the dreaded plateau and keeps you from getting bored.

6. Get inspired

Find something that will motivate you to stick it out. The road to weight loss is treacherous and bumpy. You will crave junk, you won't want to work out, and you'll be sore somedays. You will go through highs and lows and you may even want to give up at some point. That's just the reality of it. Lord knows I've contemplated throwing in the towel more than a few times. What sets apart those who are successful those who aren't is simply endurance. Figure out what exactly it is that will motivate you and keep you going. Are you trying to get in shape for spring break, an audition, or a big event? Focus on how you will feel once you've reached your goal. Find someone whose body inspires you, buy that too small outfit, post pictures on your refrigerator, start a blog or write in a journal, ask a friend to do it with you....do wHaTeVeR it is that will motivate you. This will make all the difference.

7. Last but certainly not least- BE PATIENT

The absolute hardest part of my weight loss journey has been this. I would work out ten times a day for a month straight if it meant I would get to my goal quicker. But that is not only unrealistic but unhealthy. If you're losing more than 2lbs per week then you are going to have an awful time trying to keep that weight off. If you're losing less than 2lbs a week don't get frustrated. Healthy and successful weight loss TAKES TIME. In the end shortcuts won't get you anywhere. Allow yourself time to lose the weight and change your overall lifestyle.