How many people do you know who joined a gym or started a new diet or exercise program this week?
A lot, probably.
And how many of those people will be in the best shape of their lives come March?
Not many.
Weight loss resolutions are understandably common given the obesity rate and the fact most of us could stand to lose a few pounds. However very few of the people who set out to do that every January actually succeed.
Many will find it too time consuming, too difficult or too unpleasant. Most have set themselves up to fail by expecting to instantly see results. When they don’t see a dramatic drop on the scale after a few days or weeks, they get frustrated and give up.
This year I invite you to buck the trend, and skip setting a New Year’s Resolution to lose weight. That might sound like strange advice coming from a Personal Trainer and fitness fanatic, but hear me out.
If your goal is to lose more than ten pounds, that can be a long and difficult task. The mere thought of all the changes you have to make to get from Point A to Point B becomes so overwhelming you’re likely to throw in the towel before you even start. (The idea that you are going to go from a couch potato to a gym rat overnight is preposterous anyway.)
Choosing an unrealistic resolution that cannot be achieved in a short amount of time is setting yourself up to fail.
What I suggest, instead, is resolving to make one positive change that not only enriches your life but also seems small enough to be manageable.
Each of the five resolutions below are not only achievable, they can also help you lose weight without even picking up a dumbbell or setting foot in a gym!
1. Take up a new hobby
We could all use more recreation in our busy lives. What’s something you’ve always wanted to try, or maybe an activity you used to enjoy that you had to give up at some point? Hobbies are a great way to occupy idle time that is often spent in front of the TV with a bag of snacks. If you’re busy doing something else, you won’t be mindlessly eating and even if your hobby isn’t physical you’ll still be getting more activity than you would staring at the computer or TV!
2. Drink more water
Start by setting a goal of drinking at least one full glass of water each morning. Water is vital to our health and well-being, and most Americans don’t drink enough. Being well-hydrated gives you more energy, improves digestion and keeps you feeling fuller so you eat less. When you have more energy, you will be motivated to move more. When you put all those things together, drinking more water can help you lose weight!
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