Having the desire to lose extra pounds and get in shape can be a daunting task without a plan. While weight loss might seem like an uphill battle, with the right kind of discipline and determination, it’s very possible to shed pounds and shape up your body within a few weeks. There are many tactics and approaches that you can use to help you in achieving your goal. Here’s how to shed pounds and transform your body fast.
Get Into A Routine
Establishing a consistent routine is key in setting yourself up for success. This means, planning ahead and prioritizing a set time and day to workout. A workout doesn’t need to be elaborate or take all day, but doing something consistently, even just a few times a week, will get you on the right track. If going to the gym isn’t your thing, enroll in a class or find an exercise plan to follow, like a HIIT or Zumba class. This can help keep you motivated and incentivize you to keep up your routine.
Go At Your Own Pace
You should never jump onto a fitness regimen that you can’t physically handle. Trying to do too much, too soon, is an easy way to wind up injured or just plain discouraged. So, don’t try to copy someone else’s routine. Instead, adjust your plan to your own body and skill level. You don’t have to push yourself too hard, even if someone else is doing something that looks to be more advanced. Moving your body with comfortable intensity can be enough to make a difference.
Swap Out Unhealthy Foods
Eating healthy and nutritious meals is an important part of shedding pounds and transforming your body fast. Start by assessing your daily diet and replacing unhealthy foods with healthier alternatives. For example, trade out the processed snacks for nuts and apples or a teaspoon of peanut butter. Replace your morning latte with oat or soy milk. This healthy swap can help you to lose weight and reduce your risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Incorporate Interval Training
Interval training has become popular due to its quick and effective results in regards to diet and health. This intense exercise technique requires you to alternate short bursts of intense activity with periods of rest. For example, run or bike for 3 minutes and then rest for about 1 minute. Repeat this routine for about 40 minutes. One of the great things about interval training is that it keeps your body guessing and helps to accelerate your weight loss.
Listen To Your Body
Your body knows best and is a great resource when trying to shed pounds and shape up. Part of achieving your goal is understanding the signals that your body sends you. It’s important to know when to take a break and when to push yourself further. This way you can focus more on your mental and physical health.
Add Stretch Breaks
Stretching is an often overlooked practice, but it’s actually an important part of any fitness regimen. Extensible activities will help to improve blood flow, increase flexibility and enhance your ability to move more freely. A useful way to incorporate stretching would be to add them to your interval training routine. Take 30 – 60 seconds break to stretch your muscles after each set.
Mix It Up
Don’t get stuck in a rut by doing the same exercises or routine over and over again. Your body needs variety to make progress. This means, you should change up your workout every couple of weeks by introducing different exercises, whether HIIT, cardio, strength training, or something else. Constantly challenge your body in different ways with different exercises to surprise your muscles and maximize the intensity of your workout.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is essential when it comes to losing weight and achieving your fitness goals. It helps to keep your metabolism high and even improves your energy levels. Staying hydrated throughout the day ensures that your body remains energized and keeps you going all day long. Aim to drink 1 cup of water every 15 – 20 minutes if you’re involved in an active activity.
Switch Up Meal Plates
Your plate should consist of a balance of proteins, carbs and healthy fats. Swap energy-dense, unhealthy snacks and processed eateries with whole-foods like vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins. Focus on eating foods in their natural, unprocessed state to get the most of their dietary benefits. Eating a healthy balanced meal will provide the essential nutrients your body needs to boost your energy and performance.
Take Weeks Off
You should take time off after every 4-6 weeks of rigorous exercise. Taking regular breaks will give your body time to recover, repair and rebuild. Being mindful of your rest days, allows you to maintain a consistent exercise routine without risking injury and feeling burnout. During these weeks, you can focus on active recovery activities like yoga, foam rolling, and swimming. They can help to increase mobility, strength, and reduce any risk of injury.
Losing weight and getting in shape doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With plenty of motivation, discipline, and determination, it’s very possible to shed pounds and shape up your body in the span of a few weeks. A combination of healthy eating, building a routine and intervals training can help you to get results in no time. Just remember to listen to your body and be sure to take breaks for maximum recovery.