subject: Lose Body Fat Quickly in 2010! [print this page] Author: Darren Crichton Author: Darren Crichton
2010 is now upon us. For many, it is traditionally the time when people make resolutions for the New Year. At the top of most people's list is the goal to lose body fat quickly and to start to exercise regularly. The only proven way to accomplish this is to set realistic goals, develop specific plans and then stick to them.
Most people do not understand the difference between a dream and a goal. A dream is a goal without a plan. We all can say "I want to have washboard abs by the summer" but unless you have a proven plan to back it up, you won't be able to achieve it.
There are a few important factors to consider when setting weight loss goals:
1. Know Your Body Fat Percentage. You probably know how much you weigh but do you know your body fat percentage, or how many pounds of lean body mass you carry? Is your goal is to weigh what you weighed when you were in college? That might not be realistic. The numbers you see on the scale don't always tell the whole story. Start thinking about fat loss percentage instead of weight loss because, depending on your body type and workout regimen, you may just lose 10 pounds of fat and gain 10 pounds of muscle with your net loss on the scale being 0.
2. Decide On A Realistic Time Frame. Unless you're a contestant on The Biggest Loser, working out four to six hours a day, you can't expect to lose 10 pounds in a week. Allow yourself a reasonable amount of time to lose body fat. If you have a goal of losing 20 pounds of body fat, try to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week with the goal of reaching your ideal body fat percentage in four months.
3. Develop a Workable Exercise and Nutrition Plan. People often start out saying "I'm going to walk three miles every day and only eat 1,000 calories," which usually only lasts for a few weeks. Doing this will set yourself up for failure. Stay away from fads or gimmicks. Develop an exercise plan you know you can follow and maintain. Decide on the type of exercise, the duration and the frequency. Follow a sound nutrition program encompassing whole foods. Try to eat five to six smaller meals a day. Avoid skipping meals, drink plenty of water and limit foods that are high in fat, sugar, sodium and calories.
4. Create an Accountability Team. First and foremost, be accountable to yourself. Honor self-promises and realize you're worthy of being healthy and fit. Ask friends and family to join your accountability team offering support and helpful reminders about your exercise and nutrition plans.About the Author:
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