If you’re trying to lose weight, you might be familiar with this nagging thought: “I just don’t have time.” Starting a new fitness program can be a big lifestyle change, and it often requires hard work. But having a plan, including a well-designed fitness and healthy eating program, will help you to seamlessly incorporate positive changes into your life without compromising your free time or impacting your already-busy schedule. Use these helpful tips to get organized and you’ll be on your way to losing that extra weight.
Consistency counts
In order to see visible results, you’ll need to commit to at least three workouts per week. Twice a week may be OK for maintaining a healthy weight, but one day a week of exercise simply isn’t enough for fitness benefits.
Pick a Time
Establishing routine is one of the most important parts of any weight-loss plan. One of the best ways to make fitness a habit is to designate a specific time of day to work out, then do everything you can to stick with the schedule. Many people find it helpful to exercise in the morning when there are fewer distractions and less of a chance that something will come up that bumps your workout off the schedule. Begin the day with a healthy breakfast, then hit the gym before work or other obligations.
Make lifestyle adjustments
New workout habits will be most successful when you modify your lifestyle to accommodate them. If there’s a TV show you just can’t miss in the evenings, plan your workout so you can do it in front of a TV””whether it’s at home with your own equipment or at a gym with TV monitors. That way, you won’t feel like you’ve missed out on anything!
Prep for success
The last thing you want when you’re mentally and physically ready to tackle a workout is for your equipment to slow you down or stop you. If bike riding is your new workout, make sure your bicycle tires are properly inflated. Don’t stack things on your treadmill that will have to be removed before you begin. Keep your workout clothes laid out and ready to wear, and water bottle ready to go. A little planning ahead can really help maximize your workout efficiency.
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