Prepare for Take Off

  Preparing to lose weight takes more than signing up for the gym.  To be successful there is much more involved, and to keep it off there is even more. Below is a list of what to consider before attempting to loose a substantial amount of weight. 

1.   Set a realistic goal. If your goal is to lose 20 lbs in 1 month you may be discouraged if you don't hit that goal. Often when people get discouraged they quit, especially when they try something for the first time. Setting a goal to lose 10 lbs in the first month is more realistic.

2.   Map out a plan. What do you plan on doing to reach you goal? There are a handfuls of diet and excersie trends to choose from. Once you settle on a plan, write down your exercise  schedule on wall calendar, then go about cleaning out your fridge and pantry of stuff you can't eat.

3.   Spend some money. Let's face it, being healthy costs money. But it does not cost as much as you think, I promise! The basics of what you need to buy are: a good pair of running shoes, comfortable bottoms that are easy to move in, a pair or 2 of hand weights, an armband for your phone, and a wall calendar. You don't have to buy anything else until you are comfortable with exercising.

4. Invest in technology. There are apps that will help you calculate you calories, track your steps, map your run, and even provide you a routine for arms, legs, abs, and glutes. Create a playlist of motivational songs that get you pumped (eye of the tiger, we are the champions, don't stop believing etc.). Also take regular pictures of yourself and compare them to your "before" photo to see how you've changed. 

5.  Make it public. Telling people that you plan to lose weight holds you accountable to actually try. There is nothing more embarrassing than telling someone you gave up when you know you shouldn't have. You may even find someone willing to workout or diet with you.

6.   Do not compare yourself to others. Other people may be doing different things for their weight loss, or may have a faster metabolism than yours. So if someone tells you they lost ten more pounds than you in the same amount of time, do not get discouraged. Every pound down is a personal victory.

Okay so #6 isn't really a way to prepare, it's more of a mental note. I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any questions or whether or not his has helped kickstart your weight loss goals.