Any of us who have tried in the past to lose weight know that sometimes pressure can help… right? Wrong! As the wedding day approaches, the stress piles on and that can make weight loss next to impossible. Between the flowers, the cake and wondering where to seat your drunk, inappropriate uncle your checklist culd be so long that fitting into your dress may seem like a pipe dream. There is hope however: a few simple weight loss tips and tricks that can turn it all around and help your body become the one you’ve been dreaming of.
Timing is Everything
I you’d like (or need) to lose weight before the wedding, plan ahead! Start as soon as you get that ring on your finger. Losing weight and changing your habits can take time – sometimes a lot of time – so make it easier on your self by leaving a large window of opportunity.
I you’d like (or need) to lose weight before the wedding, plan ahead! Start as soon as you get that ring on your finger. Losing weight and changing your habits can take time – sometimes a lot of time – so make it easier on your self by leaving a large window of opportunity.
Get with the Program
Let’s face it, the diet industry is a huge, multi-billion dollar money-sucker… but that doesn’t mean that some of the programs aren’t legitimate. Millions of people each year drop major pounds on these weight loss plans, so why shouldn’t you? The key is to take the program you choose, if you choose one, and work it in to your normal life so after the honeymoon, the buttons aren’t a-popping! Choose a program that makes sense for your life, your budget, and your values… and stick with it. Research it first and make a pros and cons list before you buy. If you’re wondering “What is Body by Vi?” or “Does Herbal magic work?”, look it up instead of shrugging your shoulders and giving up.
Let’s face it, the diet industry is a huge, multi-billion dollar money-sucker… but that doesn’t mean that some of the programs aren’t legitimate. Millions of people each year drop major pounds on these weight loss plans, so why shouldn’t you? The key is to take the program you choose, if you choose one, and work it in to your normal life so after the honeymoon, the buttons aren’t a-popping! Choose a program that makes sense for your life, your budget, and your values… and stick with it. Research it first and make a pros and cons list before you buy. If you’re wondering “What is Body by Vi?” or “Does Herbal magic work?”, look it up instead of shrugging your shoulders and giving up.
These programs generally offer the support and encouragement needed for a great weight loss experience. Supplying you with a guided eating and exercise plan, you’ll hardly have to do any of the hard work yourself! Except for losing the excess baggage of course!
Or… Go it Alone
If you’re not the program kinda gal, then you’ll need to sit down and make a plan for your weight loss journey. When you’re on your own, you need smarts, encouragement and a bit of self control.
If you’re not the program kinda gal, then you’ll need to sit down and make a plan for your weight loss journey. When you’re on your own, you need smarts, encouragement and a bit of self control.
You should keep a food diary for a week just to really take a look at where you need improvement with your habits. Be completely honest about every bite you put in your mouth!
Try and cut your portion sizes down so that your total calorie intake is about 1200 per day. Your calories should come from fuel – not junk. Take a look at Canada’s Food Guide and follow it - it’s there for a reason! Other than junk (you know exactly what food I’m talking about!) the best things to cut down on (not cut out) are carbs. Carbohydrates are needed, but most people eat way too many of them so they end up being converted into sugar, which your body doesn’t need much of either. Complex carbs like whole grains are the way to go – no white flour. Your plate every night should be filled with:
- ½ fruits, veggies and legumes
- 1/4 protein
- ¼ grains
Besides watching what you eat – watch what you drink! Cut out any sugary drinks and definitely cut down on wine and spirits. (Notice I didn’t say CUT OUT). Make sure you drink 6-8 glasses of water per day; not only is it hydrating it helps to flush the toxins and fat out of your body.
Choose one day per week to have a little splurge: some wine, chocolate or a bowl of chips; whatever the vice, give yourself a little taste once a week. Another great strategy is: don’t have anything you might splurge on in the house – out of sight, out of mind!
Get Moving!
Now let’s talk exercise! 80% of losing weight is eating, but that other 20% is important too. Getting yourself moving is extremely important for your overall health, as well as toning and shrinking that booty. It’s imperative to start off slow and work your way up to 60 minutes a day if possible. Walking is great, as well as plyometrics, strength training, dance… Find something you like and stick with it, and every 4 weeks up your intensity. That’s how you get results and achieve a higher level of fitness.
Now let’s talk exercise! 80% of losing weight is eating, but that other 20% is important too. Getting yourself moving is extremely important for your overall health, as well as toning and shrinking that booty. It’s imperative to start off slow and work your way up to 60 minutes a day if possible. Walking is great, as well as plyometrics, strength training, dance… Find something you like and stick with it, and every 4 weeks up your intensity. That’s how you get results and achieve a higher level of fitness.
Whether you’re on a weight loss program or doing it on your own, exercise must be worked in on an almost daily basis. 6 days a week if possible and one day to rest. Try varying the routines and working in strength, cardio and stretches.
Start early, get motivated and work your way to a great body on your special day.(And don’t gain it all back on the honeymoon!)
Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is currently researching and writing about fitness, weight loss programs and has answered the question: What is Body by Vi?
