Steps to Win at Weight Loss
Aug 01 '00
Why are my "genes" not like the models on the cover of Glamour magazine? For those of us who struggle with weight loss and gain, it just doesn't seem fair to constantly battle with our weight. However, after turning thirty this year, I have finally concluded that this will always be a lifetime struggle. I have also realized that I can feel great about myself and my body even though it is not the pencil thin figure of a model. My journey through thick and thin has almost returned to what I weighed on my wedding day. It has not been easy, and yes, I have quit temporarily many times. However, I have finally found my solution and it works for me.
Here are a few guidelines to help you begin your weight loss program:
Face the Facts
The first step in loosing weight is admitting you need to loose weight. You need to get on the scales and find out how much you weigh. Let’s face it, in order to win the race you must have a starting point. I know from personal experience how scary this can be. Enlist a friend if you need some moral support. Once you have weighed and recorded the weight, you have conquered the first step to reaching your goal.
Accountability
The next step is to find someone or some program to hold you accountable to loosing weight. I firmly believe this is a step you cannot afford to skip. Whenever you feel like giving up or eating everything in your pantry, you know that you have someone to call or go see to help you get past the crisis. Many times we reach this point and give in instead of using a resource to get through it. Set yourself up to succeed, not fail.
Find Out What Works
I have finally come to the conclusion that there is no “Right” program for everyone. We were all created with different personalities and learning styles. How absurd to think that one program fits all. Most people believe that we should stick to one program and stay with it for the rest of our lives. For some personalities this approach really works, but for others it would be a challenge. Medically, I’ve read enough to know that it is not healthy to change continually from one program to the next. My advice is to find out what really works for you, learn your likes and dislikes, and then go with that program. Personally I have “borrowed” ideas from several different programs and created my own lifestyle guide to go by.
Be Realistic
In the beginning of this opinion, I stated that I am almost back to what I weighed on my wedding day. While this is true, I didn’t mention that I’m about a ½ size larger through the hips and stomach. I can’t give all the credit to my three sons, even though I’m positive they get credit for the stretch marks. I also have to realize that I have a different body than before children. My body can’t handle the amount or types of food I used to eat when I was in my early twenties. When I finally weighed for the first time about a year after my last child, I realized I needed to lose about seventy-five pounds to be at a healthy weight for my body size. Once you have decided on a goal weight, I suggest you divide your weight loss into smaller goals that will be easier to reach. It sure feels better to get a reward every ten pounds than to wait until you have lost your total amount of weight.
Exercise Pays Off
Yes, I know, some of you tremble at this word, but exercise really does help on your road to good health. As with any suggestions, seek your Doctor’s advice before beginning any exercise program. I personally work out at the gym 3 – 4 times a week and the benefits have been substantial. I have lost inches at times when my weight loss reached a stand still. I also have more energy on a day-to-day basis and feel more motivated to get things accomplished. Choose an exercise program that works for you. Don’t be afraid to venture out and try new things. Make your workout enjoyable. It can happen.
Keep On Keeping On
Finally, I say don’t ever really quit. I know you will temporarily give up from time to time, but refocus and remember what your goals are. This new person is going to be healthier, and feel better. You’re going to have energy and a better self-image. It will be worth all the hard work and effort you put into it. Keep on the right track!
Don’t Fall off the Band Wagon
Once you achieve your goal weight, realize that the battle is not over. Most people are so elated to arrive at their destination that they forget to stick with the program. If you have ever regained lost weight, than you know what I’m talking about. You need to realize that the battle will NEVER be over, you’ll just look and feel better after a certain point.
Good luck with whatever program works for you, I believe you can do it!
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julieagee
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Member: Julie Agee
Location: Fort Worth, TX
Reviews written: 9
Trusted by: 5 members
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