Are you looking for long-term weight loss?  If so, start now!  As I sit here business planning the next 3 months, it suddenly dawned on me that Christmas is only 12 weeks away.  That’s all.  This also means that the party season will commence in just over 8 weeks time.  Dust off those party frocks!  For some of you, the thought of squeezing yourself into ‘the little black dress’ may bring you out into a cold sweat.  Don’t despair…there is still time to follow a weight loss programme and to feel fabulous.

I’ve spoken about the importance of goal setting in my previous blogs.  If you want long-term weight loss, then now is the time to put your plan into action.  It’s perfect timing to have a targeted, achievable and specific weight loss goal.  So, what can you expect in 8 – 12 weeks?  If you follow the guidelines below, you can start to notice the changes to your body in just a few days:

1) Choose a physical activity that you enjoy, and follow a exercise programme based upon this activity.  If you want maximum benefits from your exercise, get out of the ‘fat-burning zone’ and work harder with interval and resistance training.  This will burn more calories and put you in a continual fat-burning state throughout the rest of the day.

2) Your exercise programme for weight loss should take place at least 3 x weekly.  More sessions each week is fine, but always make sure that you have a recovery day.

3) Follow a healthy eating plan.  This can seem like an insurmountable challenge at times, especially if you feel so confused about what actually is and isn’t healthy.  How often have you tried following a new ‘fad’ diet only to find that you fall off the wagon a short time down the line?  The important word there is DIET.  If new diets are continually being introduced, ask yourself the question, “Do they actually work?”  Sticking to a healthy eating plan will yield long-term results, without the worry of having to put it all back on after the party season is over.

4) Drink plenty of filtered or bottled water every day.  Keeping the body hydrated will help you to avoid headaches, the feeling of being hungry and general tiredness.  You should aim for 1.5 to 2 litres each day.  Keep a 1/2 litre bottle in your bag or on your desk at work to remind yourself of drink regularly throughout the day.

5) The safe way to lose weight is to shed just one or two pounds each week.  Over the course of the next 8 weeks and with a targeted weight loss programme, you can lose anything up to a stone in weight…and keep it off after the festive season.

There is lots of support and advice available.  If you want to lose a few pounds, follow a weight loss programme and stay healthy at the same time, then why not contact a professional for help?  Achieving safe weight loss takes a little planning, preparation and support.  Our small team of Surrey Personal Trainers offer nurturing support that puts a friendly face on fitness.