How to lose weight in seven easy steps

A successful weight loss programme can be difficult to manage and can often seem like a daunting task if you are new to dieting and exercising. It doesn’t need to be an uphill struggle though, as long as you take the time to make a few small efforts and lifestyle changes. Here are seven small changes you can make which can make your weight loss plan a little easier to deal with.

Making changes to your exercise programme can be a great way to start shifting the pounds a little quicker, so if you normally go for a morning jog, try sprinting instead. Sprinting is a great form of exercise as it burns more calories and increases your heart rate. If done correctly, it can even result in what is known as the after burn effect, where you continue to burn calories after you’ve finished exercising. Whenever you go for a long walk, aim to include a short sprint of thirty seconds as well and then return back to walking – do this for five repetitions to really feel the benefit.

Overeating is an easy thing to get into the habit of, particularly if you’re trying not to waste food. However, this is easily avoided simply by sharing food with family or friends – share your meals with others and you’ll avoided consuming unnecessary calories.

Try to make use of your day more effectively, such as when you are watching television. Sitting in front of the TV every night is fine, but it could also be an effective workout period – try lifting weights or doing stepping exercises during this time to burn calories at the same time as watching your favourite programmes.

If you’re faced with the option of a lift or stairs, always take the stairs. Generally speaking, unless your office is ten stories high, walking up stairs will only cost you a few extra minutes but will help you to burn extra calories. It may seem like an insignificant amount, but over time these build up.

When you go shopping or to work, park your car further away from the supermarket or building in question. The extra bit of walking takes just a few extra steps but will build up over time.

Choosing kick boxing over your usual aerobics or gym class can be a fun and exciting way of burning more calories and letting go of stress. It’s also a great way to meet new people and socialise.

The final change you may find useful is to eat your meals whilst sitting in front of a mirror – although it may seem like a silly thing to do, watching yourself eating limits the chance of you eating more than necessary, helping you to stay on track and reduce eating too many calories.