Weight Loss is All About You

Losing weight is the single most desired outcome when people join any gym but without the proper guidance and motivation it’s very difficult to achieve. That’s why only 8% of people achieve their resolutions according to a study.

We consistently get the question “How long will it take me to lose weight?” and while there is much that goes into this, it is an excellent question that can be easily answered through a little self-analysis.

Your Weight Loss Goal

The key factor in determining how quickly you will lose weight is to first decide how much weight you want to lose. A person who wants to lose more than 100 pounds will probably lose weight at a much quicker rate than a person looking to lose those last 10 pounds, simply because they have so much more to lose.

Realistically speaking, you should lose on average 1-2 pounds per week. This means if you are attempting to drop 20 pounds, it should take about 10 weeks. Keep in mind, that even if you fall off the wagon, or aren’t as consistent as you should be those first two months, even at half the effort, you could still achieve these results over the course of 4 or 6 months, which will still put you at your goal weight by the time your next New Year’s resolution rolls around. Focus less on pressuring yourself to Reach goals quickly, and more on being consistent with your Program.

Your Starting Weight

Your starting weight will play a vital role in determining how long it will take you to shed the weight. Investing in a tape measure, food scale, and journal to keep track of your measurements, and nutrition goals are great for keeping you motivated and on track. Be wary of scales, as tempting as it may be to step on them every morning. Anything from water weight to the addition of new, lean muscle tissue on your body can make those numbers jump, leaving you confused and more inclined to quit your program a few weeks in. A more accurate method to document weight loss is through progress photos. A front, and side snapshot of yourself in leggings, and a tank top will do. Watching yourself visually change, and shrink in the photos will give you that boost of motivation you need to work toward your goal.

One pound of body fat is equal to about 3,500 calories. This means that if you want to lose one pound, you need to create a deficit of 3,500 calories. You can either burn the calories through exercise, minimize through diet, or combine both for maximum effect. Once you reach your goals, you will need to learn how to maintain your results. Converting your short-term weight loss program into a long-term lifestyle change can be challenging. If you need help with this, one of our certified trainers can help guide you in the right direction.

Your Commitment Level

If you are able to commit to exercising and sticking to your nutrition plan on a daily basis, you will eventually see results. Consistency is the key to success, whether it takes 2 months or 10- stick with it, and you WILL see results. Missing a workout here or there will not kill your progress, but if it becomes a habit, it will definitely slow you down. The same rule applies to your nutrition program. One cheeseburger won’t make you fat, just like one salad won’t make you skinny. It is the consistent behaviors that will ultimately shape you.

Conclusion

Your commitment and effort towards sticking to your program will determine the amount of time it will take you to reach your goal. If you can’t commit to your program, then you won’t reach your goal. Simple as that. Follow the steps laid out for you, don’t overthink it, and trust the process. It will happen. At My House Fitness we will motivate you, give you nutritional guidance and challenge you each month to achieve and exceed your goals. Find a My House Fitness near you.

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