Crossroads Fitness Blog

Crossroads Fitness Blog

Put the weight-loss pieces together

February 21, 2013
Your New Year’s resolutions very likely included weight loss. It all sounded so easy on Jan. 1. You were so excited, committed and motivated. Now, weeks later, some of the excitement has worn off. Even with the best plans, weight loss constitutes a difficult endeavor for everyone. So how do you stay on the right path to fulfill your goal?

Keep in mind that weight loss is a multi-faceted goal. That’s what makes it so difficult. You get set in your ways, and making changes can be tough. Successful weight loss involves nutrition, exercise, motivation, time and a specific mind set.  Here are some tips to help you in each area:

Nutrition goes hand in hand with weight loss. It’s your fuel for everything you do. In simple terms, if you consume more calories than you burn, you’ll gain weight. Although it’s not actually that simple, try to think of it as “good” choices versus “bad” choices. Choosing to eat an apple is a better choice than eating a cookie. Be sure to drink plenty of water.  Sometimes you’re just thirsty rather than hungry. Eating several small meals a day will help prevent becoming so hungry you snack and binge. The best tip of all?  Be careful of mindless eating — eating while on the telephone, in front of the television or in your car. Those are the calories that add up. Instead, take the time to enjoy the foods you’re eating.

The exercise portion not only Quick read more or view full article aids in weight loss, but also the numerous health benefits. Strive for a cardio workout to raise your heart rate. This strengthens your heart and burns calories. By adding strength training to your exercise regime, you’ll gain muscle. Remember that muscle burns many more calories than fat. Not only will you be burn more calories, but you’ll also become more toned and look better. 

Creating your goal was the easy part. Sticking to it is the hard part. Staying motivated EVERY DAY can be a challenge.  Try a few of these tips to help keep you engaged. Consider weighing yourself once week and making a log of your progress. Tell others close to you what you goal is and share your ups and downs with them. This will help keep you accountable. Write down a motivational quote every week and put it on your mirror where you can see it daily. Keep that goal in front of you. Keep your eyes on the prize.

Weight loss is a time-consuming process. That’s why it is important to plan out your weekly meals in advance. Shop and cook on the weekends to prepare for your week. Write down your exercise classes and workout times in your daily planner. Schedule them as if they’re an appointment you can’t miss. Make time for yourself. This goal is important to you, so make it happen. You make time for what’s important.

Reaching your weight-loss goal is a mindset. You’re the only one who knows how important it is to you. The reasons behind your weight-loss goal are unique to you. Maybe it’s your self-image, a special event or health issue. Make sure you remind yourself everyday why you’re doing this.

By putting all the pieces together, you’ll be successful not only in losing weight, but also creating a healthy lifestyle that will stick with you for life.
Read Less
Posted by Paula Reece
No Comments   |   Add a Comment >>
  • NORTH
  • 2768 Compass Drive
  • Grand Junction, CO 81506
  • 970-242-8746
  • Fax: 970-241-4030
  • DOWNTOWN
  • 225 N. 5th Street, Suite 18
  • Alpine Bank Building
  • 970-241-7800
  • Fax: 970-241-3532
Crossroads Fitness ©
North: 970-242-8746
Downtown: 970-241-7800