If you want to lose weight, your main goal is to do it quickly. But before you start on a crash diet, keep in mind that quick should not always be at the forefront of your mind. Any type of weight loss program you decide to follow should always incorporate the major food groups in proper portions as stated by the food pyramid, no exceptions. This should not be neglected as it will help you to take in the right number of calories needed to have an optimum-running metabolism.
Start by Setting Some Goals
Being asked to write your goals for weight loss is the main characteristic in any quality weight loss program. Professional medical studies have even suggested that setting and writing down weight loss goals is a key component in making sure a dieter sticks to their plan and ultimately meets their weight loss goals. In order to do this, make mini-goals that will take you to your main goal. For instance, if you want to lose 20 pounds over the next three months, making mini-goals of a two-pound weight loss per week.
Calories
Everyone needs calories but realize that a typical weight loss program will require you to reduce the amount of calories you consume each day in order to lose weight. However, if you reduce your caloric intake too much, you may actually cause your weight loss to stall instead of quicken. The ideal rule to follow if you are a man is to not dip under 1,600 calories/day and if you are a woman to stay above 1,200 calories/day. There are certain health risk associated with not taking in enough calories.
Exercise Routines
Exercise is a great way to boost weight loss. Remember, one pound is equal to 3,500 calories so in order to lose a pound, you will need to burn off 3,500 calories. Most people do this by either eating less calories or exercising in order to raise their metabolism and burn off fat. Of course, if you are following an appropriate weight loss program, it will be suggested to lower your calories to a healthy amount and include more exercise into your daily regime. But be sure not to overexert yourself as this can lead to exhaustion and dehydration.
Don’t Forget
Your number one goal when following a weight loss program is to remain healthy. If you come across a diet that says you can lose tons of weight in a miniscule time frame, keep in mind that this advice is most likely unhealthy and the creator is only out to make a quick buck. People who are on a diet weight loss program do not need to eliminate entire groups of food in order to achieve success.
A body is much like a machine. The fuel used to run a machine is equivalent to the calories used to run a human body. Each type of food is important in maintaining your health. So when you greatly reduce your calories and exercise too much, your body will not be able to keep up with the demands you are placing on it and subsequently, begin to shut down. Working hard, setting realistic goals, exercising, and eating right are all keys to a healthy weight loss program.
Tara Thorpe is a fitness fanatic and loves to share her tips on health and wellness with others, she enjoys writing and is passionate about weight loss program